HomeMy WebLinkAbout050416 PC Agenda
·
·
·
·
·
AERIAL MAP
PLAN REDUCTIONS
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice of Public Hearing
A PUBLIC HEARING has been scheduled before the City of Temecula PLANNING
COMMISSION to consider the matter described below:
Case No:
PA15-1185 and PA15-1187
Applicant:
Peter Kruse
Proposal:
A Development Plan and a Conditional Use Permit for Home2 Suites by Hilton to
allow for the construction and operation of a four-story 66,552 square foot hotel in
the Business Park (BP) zone. The hotel consists of 120 rooms with lounge areas,
a dining room and breakfast bar, a coffee bar, an exercise room, guest laundry,
and a business center. Outdoor amenities include a pool, a dining area, fire pit,
and a barbecue area. The site is located between Rancho California Road and
Single Oak Drive, approximately 450 feet east of Business Park Drive.
Environmental:
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the proposed
project is exempt from further environmental review and a Notice of Exemption will
be adopted in compliance with CEQA (Section 15301, Class 1, Existing Facilities)
Case Planner:
James Atkins, (951) 240-4206
Place of Hearing:
City of Temecula, Council Chambers
Date of Hearing:
May 4, 2016
Time of Hearing:
6:00 p.m.
The agenda packet (including staff reports) will be available for viewing in the Main Reception area at the
Temecula Civic Center (41000 Main Street, Temecula) after 4:00 p.m. the Friday before the Planning
Supplemental Material
www.cityoftemecula.org. Any distributed to a majority of the Commission regarding
any item on the Agenda, after the posting of the Agenda, will be available for public review in the Main
Reception area at the Temecula Civic Center (41000 Main Street, Temecula), 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. In
www.cityoftemecula.org and will be
available for public review at the respective meeting.
If you have any questions regarding any item of business on the Agenda for this meeting, please contact the
Community Development Department, (951) 694-6400.
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
PLAN REDUCTIONS
PC RESOLUTION
MAJOR MODIFICATION TO A DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
PC RESOLUTION NO. 16-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THAT THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA APPROVE
A RESOLUTION ENTITLE OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA
APPROVING PLANNING APPLICATION NO. PA13-0141,
A MAJOR MODIFICATION TO A DEVELOPMENT PLAN
(PA07-0200) AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (PA07-
0202) FOR THE TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL TO
RELOCATE A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED HELISTOP TO
TWO NEW LOCATIONS INCLUDING AN INTERIM
LOCATION FOR USE DURING PRELIMINARY PROJECT
PHASES AND A PERMANENT LOCATION ON THE ROOF
OF A FUTURE HOSPITAL TOWER TO BE
CONSTRUCTED DURING A LATER PHASE AND TO
CONSTRUCT AN APPROXIMATELY 5,000 SQUARE
FOOT SINGLE STORY STORAGE BUILDING TO BE
LOCATED AT THE SITE OF THE PREVIOUSLY
APPROVED HELISTOP. THE 35.3 ACRE HOSPITAL SITE
IS GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
TEMECULA PARKWAY, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET
WEST OF MARGARITA ROAD (A.P.N. 959-080-026)
Section 1. Procedural Findings. The Planning Commission of the City of
Temecula does hereby find, determine and declare that:
A. On June 30, 2004, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.
No. PA04-0462, a General Plan Amendment; on
October 12, 2005 filed PA05-0302, a Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development
Overlay-9); on June 30, 2005 filed PA04-0463, a Conditional Use Permit and
Development Plan; and on November 4, 2004 filed PA04-0571, a Tentative Parcel
Map, in a manner in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development
Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference, for the property
consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north side of Highway
79 South, approximately 7
Numbers 959-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007 through 959-080-010
("Project").
B. The Project was processed including, but not limited to, public notice in
the time and manner prescribed by State and local law, including the California
Environmental Quality
C. On April 6, 2005, the Planning Commission considered the Project at a
duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and
interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or
opposition to this matter.
D. The Planning Commission, based on testimony presented by the general
public, determined that an Environmental Impact Report would be required for this
Project.
E. On April 20, 2005, a scoping session was held before the Planning
Commission to determine the extent of issues to be addressed in the Environmental
Impact Report for the Project.
F. A Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the
California Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act
Guidelines and circulated for public review from September 28, 2005 through October
28, 2005.
G. On November 16, 2005, and again on January 5, 2006, the Planning
Commission considered the Project at duly noticed public hearings as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did
testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
H. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-01
recommending that the City Council certify the Final Environmental Impact Report for
the Project and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
I. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-04, recommending approval of the Conditional
Use Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463).
J. On January 24, 2006, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing
as prescribed by law on the Final Environmental Impact Report at which time all
persons interested had the opportunity to present oral and written evidence on the Final
Environmental Impact Report.
K. On January 24, 2006, following consideration of the entire record of
information received at the public hearings before the Planning Commission and the
City Council and due consideration of the Project, the City Council adopted Resolution
No. 06-
TEMECULA CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PREPARED FOR PLANNING APPLICATION NOS. PA04-0462 (GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT) PA05-0302 (ZONE CHANGE), PA04-0463 (CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN) AND PA04-0571 (TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP)
AND RELATED ACTIONS, AND ADOPTING THE FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING
CONSIDERATIONS, AND A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE PROPERTY CONSISTING OF
APPROXIMATELY 35.31 ACRES GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF MARGARITA ROAD,
-080-001 THROUGH 959-080-004
AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA04-0462, PA05-0302, PA04-0463,
PA04-0571)
L. On January 24, 2006, the City Council considered the Conditional Use
Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463) at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an
opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
M. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 06-07, approving the Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan for
the Project (PA04-0463).
N. On February 24, 2006, the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic each filed a separate petition challenging the City of
Health Services, Inc.
O. On May 3, 2007, the Riverside County Superior Court ordered that the
City of Temecula set aside its approval of the Project, including without limitation, its
certification of the Final Environmental Impact Report and all related approvals and
permits, until the City of Temecula has taken the actions necessary to bring the Project
County Superior Court ruled in favor of the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic, holding that: (1) the MTBE plume was not properly analyzed
in the Final Environmental Impact Report; (2) the siren noise at the hospital was
significant and should have been mitigated; and (3) not all feasible traffic mitigation
measures were adopted for cumulative traffic impacts.
P. The Riverside County Superior Court also held that the Final
Environmental Impact Report properly addressed: (1) cumulative noise, light and glare,
and aesthetic impacts; (2) landscaping mitigation deferral; (3) biological resources;
(4) geology and soils mitigation; and (5) land use consistency.
Q. On July 12, 2007, another scoping session was held to determine the
extent of issues to be addressed in the new Environmental Impact Report for the
Project.
R. new
Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines and
circulated for public review from November 5, 2007 through December 5, 2007.
S. On January 9, 2008, the Planning Commission considered Planning
Application Nos. PA07-0198 (General Plan Amendment), PA07-0199 (Zone Change),
PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permits), PA07-0200 (Development Plan), PA07-0201
(Tentative Parcel Map) in a manner in accordance with the City of Temecula General
Plan and Development Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference,
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010 ("Project"), at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law,
at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify
either in support of or opposition to this matter.
T. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearing, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-01 recommending
that the City Council certify the new Final Environmental Impact Report for the Project
and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
U. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-04, recommending approval of the
Development Plan (PA07-0200).
V. On January 22, 2008, the City Council rescinded and invalidated its
approvals of Planning Application Nos. PA04-0462, General Plan Amendment; PA05-
0302, Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development Overlay-9); PA04-0463,
Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan; and PA04-0571, Tentative Parcel Map
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010.
W. On January 22, 2008, the City Council considered the Development Plan
(PA07-0200) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the
City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support
or opposition to this matter.
X. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 08-10,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA TO
CERTIFY THE SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT PREPARED
FOR THE TEMECULA REGIONAL HOSPITAL, ADOPT FINDINGS PURSUANT TO
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, ADOPT A STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS, AND ADOPT A MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE TEMECULA
REGIONAL HOSPITAL PROJECT, LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF TEMECULA
PARKWAY (HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH) APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF
59-080-
001 THROUGH 959-080-004 AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA07-0198,
PA07-0199, PA07-0200, PA07-0201, PA07-0202). The new Final Environmental
Impact Report (FEIR) and mitigation monitoring reporting program accurately addresses
the impacts associated with the adoption of this Resolution.
Y. On June 18, 2010, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.,
filed Planning Application No. PA10-0194, a Major Modification Application in a manner
in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development Code.
Z. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
AA. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on December 15, 2010, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
BB. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 10-
28 recommending that the City Council approve Planning Application No. PA10-0194
and adopt an addendum to the Environmental Impact Report for the project.
CC. On February 8, 2011, the City Council considered Planning Application
No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and di
testify either in support or opposition to this matter.
DD. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 11-17
approving Planning Application No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) and certifying an
addendum to the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for the Major
Modification at a noticed public hearing.
EE. On May 31, 2013, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc., filed
Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major Modification Application to a
Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a
permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed during a
later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single story storage
building for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster supplies, linens, and
storage of excess construction materials to allow for repairs) to be located at the site of
the previously approved helistop.
FF. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
GG. A Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (SEIR), Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations were
prepared for the Project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of
Completion indicating the public comment period and intent to adopt the SEIR as
required by law. The public comment period commenced via the State Clearing House
from November 12, 2014 through December 26, 2014. Copies of the documents have
been available for public review and inspection at the offices of the Department of
Community Development, located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590;
the Temecula Public Library located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula
website.
HH. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on April 15, 2015, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
II. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 15-06,
recommending that the City Council certify the Final Supplemental Environmental
Impact Report for the Project (PA13-0141) and approve a Mitigation Monitoring
Program for the Project.
JJ. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 15-05, recommending approval of the Major
Modification to the Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit for the Project (13-
0141).
KK. On July 27, 2015, prior to the July 28, 2015 City Council hearing
scheduled for the project, staff received a letter from legal counsel representing the Los
analysis, project description, and feasible mitigation measures contained within the
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Project. At the July 28,
2015 City Council hearing the City Council continued the application off calendar to
provide time to revise the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report to address the
comment letter through a Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.
LL. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, reconsidered the
Application and the Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report on May
4, 2016, at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in
opposition to this matter.
MM. Prior to taking action, the Planning Commission has heard, been
presented with, reviewed and considered all of the information and data in the
administrative record, and all oral and written testimony presented to it during the
hearing. The recommendation to the City Council as set forth in this resolution, and
finding contained herein, reflect the independent judgment of the Planning Commission
and are deemed adequate for purposes of making decisions on the merits of the
Project and related actions.
NN. All legal preconditions to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
Section 2. Further Findings. The Planning Commission, in recommending that
the City Council approve the Application, hereby makes the following findings as
required by Section 17.05.030.E of the City of Temecula Municipal Code for a
development planand by Section 17.04.010.E of the City of Temecula Municipal Code
for a Conditional Use Permit:
Development Code Findings (Section 17.05.030.E):
A. The proposed use is in conformance with the General Plan for the City of
Temecula and with all the applicable requirements of State law and other Ordinances of
the City;
The proposed Modification to a Development Plan is in conformance with the
goals and policies in the General Plan for the City of Temecula, the Development
Code, and with all applicable requirements of State law and other Ordinances of
the City of Temecula. As designed and conditioned the project is consistent with
all applicable zoning ordinances, state laws and the General Plan. In addition,
the project is consistent with the development standards of the Development
Code and associated Planned Development Overlay (PDO-9), including
setbacks, parking, landscaping, lighting, lot coverage and height.
B. The overall development of the land is designed for the protection of the
public, health, safety and general welfare;
The overall development of the land has been designed for the protection of the
public health, safety, and general welfare as the project has been designed to
minimize any adverse impacts upon the surrounding neighborhood and has been
reviewed and conditioned to comply with the General Plan, Development Code,
and uniform building and fire codes.
Conditional Use Permit Findings (Section 17.04.010.E):
A. The proposed conditional use is consistent with the General Plan and the
Development Code;
The proposed Conditional Use Permit modification is consistent with the General
Plan and the Development Code. The proposal, a Major Modification to a
Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases
and a permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed
during a later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single
story storage building for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster
supplies, linens, and storage of excess construction materials to allow for repairs)
to be located at the site of the previously approved helistop is consistent with the
goals and policies contained in the General Plan and land use standards in the
Development Code. The goals and policies in the Land Use Element of the
General Plan encou
protected and co-exist with newer urban de
(Goal 8). In addition, the project is consistent with the development standards of
the Development Code and associated Planned Development Overlay (PDO-9),
including setbacks, parking, landscaping, lighting, lot coverage and height.
B. The proposed conditional use is compatible with the nature, condition and
development of adjacent uses, buildings and structures and the proposed conditional
use will not adversely affect the adjacent uses, buildings or structures;
l Use Permit are
consistent with the previously approved helistop site with regard to the nature,
condition and development of adjacent uses, buildings and structures and affect
on the adjacent uses, buildings or structures. Although the Supplemental EIR
identifies that Section 9.20.030 (Noise Ordinance) of the Temecula Municipal
Code exempts sou
executing their official duties, including, but not limited to, sworn peace officers,
emergency personnel and public utility personnel. This exemption includes,
without limitation, sound emanating from all equipment used by such personnel,
s
on medical flights are not allowed pursuant to Public Utilities Section 21662.4.(a),
which states that aircraft flights for medical purposes are exempt from local
ordinances that restrict flight departures and arrivals to particular hours of the day
or night, or restrict flights due to noise. As such, the proposed project
modifications are compatible with the nature, condition and development of
adjacent uses, buildings and structures and the proposed conditional use
modifications (exempting noise pursuant to Section 9.20.030 of the Temecula
Municipal Code and Section 21662.4.(a) of the Public Utilities Code) will not
adversely affect the adjacent uses, buildings or structures. Additionally, the
proposed storage building integrates into the hospital complex and is compatible
with the nature, condition and development of adjacent uses, buildings and
structures and will not adversely affect the adjacent hospital uses, buildings or
structures.
C. The site for a proposed conditional use is adequate in size and shape to
accommodate the yards, walls, fences, parking and loading facilities, buffer areas,
landscaping, and other development features prescribed in the Development Code and
required by the Planning Commission or City Council in order to integrate the use with
other uses in the neighborhood;
The site for the conditional uses, including the hospital buildings and helistop, is
adequate in size and shape to accommodate the yards, walls, fences, parking
and loading facilities, buffer areas, landscaping, and other development features
prescribed in this development code and required by the planning commission or
council in order to integrate the use with other uses in the neighborhood. The
project is in compliance with the development standards of the Development
Code and associated Planed Development Overlay (PDO-9), including setbacks,
parking, landscaping, lighting, lot coverage and height. The site is adequate in
size and shape to accommodate the proposed hospital facilities without affecting
the yard, parking and loading areas, landscaping, and other development
features prescribed in the Development Code.
D. The nature of the proposed conditional use is not detrimental to the health,
safety and general welfare of the community;
The Modification to the Conditional Use Permit will not be detrimental to the
health, safety and general welfare of the community. The purpose of the
Modification to the helistop location is to address Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
and Federal Aviation Administration safety concerns in a manner that minimizes
impacts to the surrounding community with regard to aesthetics, hazards, and
helicopter noise. As such, with regard to the helistop, the purpose of the
Modification to the use permit is specifically to redesign the helistop to ensure
that the project will not be detrimental to the health, safety and general welfare of
the community.
E. That the decision to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the
application for a Conditional Use Permit be based on substantial evidence in view of the
record as a whole before the Planning Commission or City Council on appeal;
The decision to recommend that the City Council conditionally approve the
proposed Modification to a Conditional Use Permit is based on substantial
evidence in view of the record as a whole before the Planning Commission.
Section 3. Environmental Findings. The Planning Commission hereby makes
the following environmental finding and determinations in connection with the
recommendation for approval of Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major
Modification to the Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit for the Temecula
A. On January 24, 2006, the City Council approved and certified the Final
22, 2008, the City Council approved and certified the Final Supplemental Environmental
the City Council approved and certified the Addendum to the Final Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report.
B. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), City staff
prepared an Initial Study of the potential environmental effects of the approval of the
Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit Major Modification Application (the
y. Based upon the findings contained in that
study, City staff determined that the City determined that the proposed modifications to
the project did trigger conditions described in Sections 15162 and 15163 of the CEQA
Guidelines which require the preparation of a Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report (SEIR) and that a SEIR is appropriate for the proposed modifications to the
hospital project.
C. On November 25, 2013, a Notice of Preparation was released to all
agencies and persons that might be affected by the project.
D. On December 11, 2013, a scoping session was held at which time City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to determine the extent of issues to be
addressed in the SEIR for the Project.
E. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, City staff prepared a
SEIR analyzing the potential environmental effects of the approval of the Development
Plan and Conditional Use Permit Major Modification, and described in the SEIR. Based
upon the finding contained in that study, City staff determined that there was substantial
evidence that the Project could result in new significant effects or increase the severity
of previously identified effects. The Supplemental EIR found that new circumstances do
exist that introduce new significant effects or increase the severity of previously
identified significant effects and a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and
Statement of Overriding Considerations was prepared.
F. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of Completion indicating the
public comment period and intent to adopt the SEIR as required by law. The public
comment period commenced via the State Clearing House from November 12, 2014
through December 26, 2014. Copies of the documents have been available for public
review and inspection at the offices of the Department of Community Development,
located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590; the Temecula Public Library
located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula website.
G. Six written comments were received prior to the public hearing and a
response to all the comments made therein was prepared, submitted to the Planning
Commission and Incorporated into the administrative record of proceedings.
H. The Planning Commission reviewed the SEIR and corresponding
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Statement of Overriding
Considerations and all comments received regarding these documents prior to and at
the April 15, 2015 public hearing and based on the whole record before it found that:
(1) the SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of
Overriding Considerations were prepared in compliance with CEQA; (2) there was
substantial evidence that the Project will have a significant effect on the environment
with regard to helicopter noise; and (3) the SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations reflected the independent
judgment of the Planning Commission.
I. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of Completion indicating the
public comment period and intent to adopt the Recirculated SEIR as required by law.
The public comment period commenced via the State Clearing House from February 8,
2016 to March 23, 2016. Copies of the documents have been available for public
review and inspection at the offices of the Department of Community Development,
located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590; the Temecula Public Library
located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula website.
J. Five written comments were received prior to the public hearing and a
response to all the comments made therein was prepared, submitted to the Planning
Commission and incorporated into the administrative record of proceedings.
K. The Planning Commission has reviewed the Recirculated SEIR and
corresponding Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Statement of
Overriding Considerations and all comments received regarding these documents prior
to and at the May 4, 2016 public hearing and based on the whole record before it finds
that: (1) the Recirculated SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and
Statement of Overriding Considerations were prepared in compliance with CEQA; (2)
there is substantial evidence that the Project will have a significant effect on the
environment with regard to helicopter noise; and (3) the Recirculated SEIR, Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations
reflected the independent judgment of the Planning Commission.
L. The custodian of records for the FEIR, the SFEIR, the Addendum for the
modification application, the second SFEIR, the Recirculated SFEIR and all other
materials, which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the Planning
of Temecula. Those documents are available for public review in the Planning
Department located at the Planning Department of the City of Temecula, 41000 Main
Street, Temecula, California.
M. All legal prerequisites to the approval of this Resolution have occurred.
Section 4. Conditions. The Planning Commission of the City of Temecula
hereby recommends that the City Council approve the Major Modification Application to
a Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a
permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed during a later
phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single story storage building
for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster supplies, linens, and storage of
excess construction materials to allow for repairs) to be located at the site of the
previously approved helistop on 35.3 acres generally located on the north side of
Temecula Parkway, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as Assessor
Parcel Number 959-080-026, as set forth in Planning Application No. PA13-0141,
subject to the specific Conditions of Approval set forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto and
incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in full.
Section 5. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City of Temecula
Planning Commission this 4th day of May, 2016.
Ron Guerriero, Chairman
ATTEST:
Luke Watson, Secretary
\[SEAL\]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE )ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Luke Watson, Secretary of the Temecula Planning Commission, do hereby
certify that the forgoing PC Resolution No. ____ was duly and regularly adopted by the
Planning Commission of the City of Temecula at a regular meeting thereof held on the
4th day of May, 2016, by the following vote:
AYES: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
ABSENT: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
ABSTAIN: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
Luke Watson, Secretary
EXHIBIT A
DRAFT CC RESOLUTION
CC RESOLUTION NO. -
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF TEMECULA APPROVING PLANNING APPLICATION
NO. PA13-0141, A MAJOR MODIFICATION TO A
DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PA07-0200) AND CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT (PA07-0202) FOR THE TEMECULA VALLEY
HOSPITAL TO RELOCATE A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED
HELISTOP TO TWO NEW LOCATIONS INCLUDING AN
INTERIM LOCATION FOR USE DURING PRELIMINARY
PROJECT PHASES AND A PERMANENT LOCATION ON
THE ROOF OF A FUTURE HOSPITAL TOWER TO BE
CONSTRUCTED DURING A LATER PHASE AND TO
CONSTRUCT AN APPROXIMATELY 5,000 SQUARE
FOOT SINGLE STORY STORAGE BUILDING FOR NON-
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL STORAGE TO BE LOCATED
AT THE SITE OF THE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED
HELISTOP. THE 35.3 ACRE HOSPITAL SITE IS
GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
TEMECULA PARKWAY, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET
WEST OF MARGARITA ROAD (APN 959-080-026)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE
AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Procedural Findings. The City Council of the City of Temecula
does hereby find, determine and declare that:
A. On June 30, 2004, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.
-0462, a General Plan Amendment; on
October 12, 2005 filed PA05-0302, a Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development
Overlay-9); on June 30, 2005 filed PA04-0463, a Conditional Use Permit and
Development Plan; and on November 4, 2004 filed PA04-0571, a Tentative Parcel
Map, in a manner in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development
Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference, for the property
consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north side of Highway
arcel
Numbers 959-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007 through 959-080-010
("Project").
B. The Project was processed including, but not limited to, public notice in
the time and manner prescribed by State and local law, including the California
Envi
C. On April 6, 2005, the Planning Commission considered the Project at a
duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and
interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or
opposition to this matter.
D. The Planning Commission, based on testimony presented by the general
public, determined that an Environmental Impact Report would be required for this
Project.
E. On April 20, 2005, a scoping session was held before the Planning
Commission to determine the extent of issues to be addressed in the Environmental
Impact Report for the Project.
F. A Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the
California Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act
Guidelines and circulated for public review from September 28, 2005 through October
28, 2005.
G. On November 16, 2005, and again on January 5, 2006, the Planning
Commission considered the Project at duly noticed public hearings as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did
testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
H. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-01
recommending that the City Council certify the Final Environmental Impact Report for
the Project and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
I. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-04, recommending approval of the Conditional
Use Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463).
J. On January 24, 2006, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing
as prescribed by law on the Final Environmental Impact Report at which time all
persons interested had the opportunity to present oral and written evidence on the Final
Environmental Impact Report.
K. On January 24, 2006, following consideration of the entire record of
information received at the public hearings before the Planning Commission and the
City Council and due consideration of the Project, the City Council adopted Resolution
No. 06-
TEMECULA CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PREPARED FOR PLANNING APPLICATION NOS. PA04-0462 (GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT) PA05-0302 (ZONE CHANGE), PA04-0463 (CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN) AND PA04-0571 (TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP)
AND RELATED ACTIONS, AND ADOPTING THE FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING
CONSIDERATIONS, AND A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE PROPERTY CONSISTING OF
APPROXIMATELY 35.31 ACRES GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF MARGARITA ROAD,
-080-001 THROUGH 959-080-004
AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA04-0462, PA05-0302, PA04-0463,
PA04-0571)
L. On January 24, 2006, the City Council considered the Conditional Use
Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463) at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an
opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
M. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 06-07, approving the Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan for
the Project (PA04-0463).
N. On February 24, 2006, the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic each filed a separate petition challenging the City of
Health Services, Inc.
O. On May 3, 2007, the Riverside County Superior Court ordered that the
City of Temecula set aside its approval of the Project, including without limitation, its
certification of the Final Environmental Impact Report and all related approvals and
permits, until the City of Temecula has taken the actions necessary to bring the Project
County Superior Court ruled in favor of the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic, holding that: (1) the MTBE plume was not properly analyzed
in the Final Environmental Impact Report; (2) the siren noise at the hospital was
significant and should have been mitigated; and (3) not all feasible traffic mitigation
measures were adopted for cumulative traffic impacts.
P. The Riverside County Superior Court also held that the Final
Environmental Impact Report properly addressed: (1) cumulative noise, light and glare,
and aesthetic impacts; (2) landscaping mitigation deferral; (3) biological resources;
(4) geology and soils mitigation; and (5) land use consistency.
Q. On July 12, 2007, another scoping session was held to determine the
extent of issues to be addressed in the new Environmental Impact Report for the
Project.
R. s decision, a new
Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines and
circulated for public review from November 5, 2007 through December 5, 2007.
S. On January 9, 2008, the Planning Commission considered Planning
Application Nos. PA07-0198 (General Plan Amendment), PA07-0199 (Zone Change),
PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permits), PA07-0200 (Development Plan), PA07-0201
(Tentative Parcel Map) in a manner in accordance with the City of Temecula General
Plan and Development Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference,
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010 ("Project"), at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law,
at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify
either in support of or opposition to this matter.
T. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearing, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-01 recommending
that the City Council certify the new Final Environmental Impact Report for the Project
and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
U. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-04, recommending approval of the
Development Plan (PA07-0200).
V. On January 22, 2008, the City Council rescinded and invalidated its
approvals of Planning Application Nos. PA04-0462, General Plan Amendment; PA05-
0302, Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development Overlay-9); PA04-0463,
Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan; and PA04-0571, Tentative Parcel Map
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010.
W. On January 22, 2008, the City Council considered the Development Plan
(PA07-0200) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the
City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support
or opposition to this matter.
X. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 08-10,
OUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA TO
CERTIFY THE SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT PREPARED
FOR THE TEMECULA REGIONAL HOSPITAL, ADOPT FINDINGS PURSUANT TO
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, ADOPT A STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS, AND ADOPT A MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE TEMECULA
REGIONAL HOSPITAL PROJECT, LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF TEMECULA
PARKWAY (HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH) APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF
CEL NUMBERS 959-080-
001 THROUGH 959-080-004 AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA07-0198,
PA07-0199, PA07-0200, PA07-0201, PA07-0202). The new Final Environmental
Impact Report (FEIR) and mitigation monitoring reporting program accurately addresses
the impacts associated with the adoption of this Resolution.
Y. On June 18, 2010, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.,
filed Planning Application No. PA10-0194, a Major Modification Application in a manner
in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development Code.
Z. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
AA. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on December 15, 2010, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
BB. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 10-
28 recommending that the City Council approve Planning Application No. PA10-0194
and adopt an addendum to the Environmental Impact Report for the project.
CC. On February 8, 2011, the City Council considered Planning Application
No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and di
testify either in support or opposition to this matter.
DD. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 11-17
approving Planning Application No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) and certifying an
addendum to the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for the Major
Modification at a noticed public hearing.
EE. On May 31, 2013, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc., filed
Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major Modification Application to a
Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a
permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed during a
later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single story storage
building for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster supplies, linens, and
storage of excess construction materials to allow for repairs) to be located at the site of
the previously approved helistop.
FF. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
GG. A Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (SEIR), Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations were
prepared for the Project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of
Completion indicating the public comment period and intent to adopt the SEIR as
required by law. The public comment period commenced via the State Clearing House
from November 12, 2014 through December 26, 2014. Copies of the documents have
been available for public review and inspection at the offices of the Department of
Community Development, located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590;
the Temecula Public Library located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula
website.
HH. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on April 15, 2015, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
II. Prior to taking action, the Planning Commission heard, was presented
with, reviewed and considered all of the information and data in the administrative
record, and all oral and written testimony presented to it during the hearing.
JJ. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 15-
05 recommending that the City Council approve Planning Application No. PA13-0141,
a Major Modification to the Temecula Valley Hospital Development Plan and
Conditional Use Permit, and adopted Resolution No. 15-06 recommending that the City
Council certify a Supplemental Environmental Impact Report with a Statement of
Overriding Considerations for noise impacts, subject to and based upon the findings
set forth hereunder.
KK. On July 27, 2015, prior to the July 28, 2015 City Council hearing
scheduled for the project, staff received a letter from legal counsel representing the Los
analysis, project description, and feasible mitigation measures contained within the
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Project. At the July 28,
2015 City Council hearing the City Council continued the application off calendar to
provide time to revise the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report to address the
comment letter through a Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.
LL. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, reconsidered the
Application and the Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report on May
4, 2016, at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in
opposition to this matter.
MM. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission recommended that the City
Council approve Planning Application No. PA13-0141 and adopt a Recirculated
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report with a Statement of Overriding
Considerations for noise impacts, subject to and based upon the findings set forth
hereunder.
NN. The City Council, at a regular meeting, considered the Application and
environmental review on May 24, 2016, at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed
by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to and
did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
OO. At the conclusion of the City Council hearing and after due consideration
of the testimony, the City Council adopted Resolution No. ______ subject to and based
upon the findings set forth hereunder.
PP. All legal preconditions to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
Section 2. Legislative Findings. The City Council, in approving the
Application, hereby makes the following findings:
Development Code Findings (Section 17.05.030.E):
A. The proposed use is in conformance with the General Plan for the City of
Temecula and with all the applicable requirements of State law and other Ordinances of
the City;
The proposed Modification to a Development Plan is in conformance with the
goals and policies in the General Plan for the City of Temecula, the Development
Code, and with all applicable requirements of state law and other ordinances of
the City of Temecula. As designed and conditioned the project is consistent with
all applicable zoning ordinances, state laws and the General Plan. In addition,
the project is consistent with the development standards of the Development
Code and associated Planned Development Overlay (PDO-9), including
setbacks, parking, landscaping, lighting, lot coverage and height.
B. The overall development of the land is designed for the protection of the
public, health, safety and general welfare;
The overall development of the land has been designed for the protection of the
public health, safety, and general welfare as the project has been designed to
minimize any adverse impacts upon the surrounding neighborhood and has been
reviewed and conditioned to comply with the General Plan, Development Code,
and uniform building and fire codes.
Conditional Use Permit Findings (Section 17.04.010.E):
A. The proposed conditional use is consistent with the General Plan and the
Development Code;
The proposed Conditional Use Permit modification is consistent with the General
Plan and the Development Code. The proposal, a Major Modification to a
Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases
and a permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed
during a later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single
story storage building for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster
supplies, linens, and storage of excess construction materials to allow for repairs)
to be located at the site of the previously approved helistop is consistent with the
goals and policies contained in the General Plan and land use standards in the
Development Code. The goals and policies in the Land Use Element of the
co
protected and co-
compatible and coord
(Goal 8). In addition, the project is consistent with the development standards of
the Development Code and associated Planned Development Overlay (PDO-9),
including setbacks, parking, landscaping, lighting, lot coverage and height.
B. The proposed conditional use is compatible with the nature, condition and
development of adjacent uses, buildings and structures and the proposed conditional
use will not adversely affect the adjacent uses, buildings or structures;
consistent with the previously approved helistop site with regard to the nature,
condition and development of adjacent uses, buildings and structures and affect
on the adjacent uses, buildings or structures. Although the Supplemental EIR
identifies that Section 9.20.030 (Noise Ordinance) of the Temecula Municipal
executing their official duties, including, but not limited to, sworn peace officers,
emergency personnel and public utility personnel. This exemption includes,
without limitation, sound emanating from all equipment used by such personnel,
on medical flights are not allowed pursuant to Public Utilities Section 21662.4.(a),
which states that aircraft flights for medical purposes are exempt from local
ordinances that restrict flight departures and arrivals to particular hours of the day
or night, or restrict flights due to noise. As such, the proposed project
modifications are compatible with the nature, condition and development of
adjacent uses, buildings and structures and the proposed conditional use
modifications (exempting noise pursuant to Section 9.20.030 of the Temecula
Municipal Code and Section 21662.4.(a) of the Public Utilities Code) will not
adversely affect the adjacent uses, buildings or structures. Additionally, the
proposed storage building integrates into the hospital complex and is compatible
with the nature, condition and development of adjacent uses, buildings and
structures and will not adversely affect the adjacent hospital uses, buildings or
structures.
C. The site for a proposed conditional use is adequate in size and shape to
accommodate the yards, walls, fences, parking and loading facilities, buffer areas,
landscaping, and other development features prescribed in the Development Code and
required by the Planning Commission or City Council in order to integrate the use with
other uses in the neighborhood;
The site for the conditional uses, including the hospital buildings and helistop, is
adequate in size and shape to accommodate the yards, walls, fences, parking
and loading facilities, buffer areas, landscaping, and other development features
prescribed in this development code and required by the planning commission or
council in order to integrate the use with other uses in the neighborhood. The
project is in compliance with the development standards of the Development
Code and associated Planed Development Overlay (PDO-9), including setbacks,
parking, landscaping, lighting, lot coverage and height. The site is adequate in
size and shape to accommodate the proposed hospital facilities without affecting
the yard, parking and loading areas, landscaping, and other development
features prescribed in the Development Code.
D. The nature of the proposed conditional use is not detrimental to the health,
safety and general welfare of the community;
The modification to the conditional use permit will not be detrimental to the
health, safety and general welfare of the community. The purpose of the
modification to the helistop location is to address Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
and Federal Aviation Administration safety concerns in a manner that minimizes
impacts to the surrounding community with regard to aesthetics, hazards, and
helicopter noise. As such, with regard to the helistop, the purpose of the
modification to the use permit is specifically to redesign the helistop to ensure
that the project will not be detrimental to the health, safety and general welfare of
the community.
E. That the decision to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the
application for a conditional use permit be based on substantial evidence in view of the
record as a whole before the Planning Commission or City Council on appeal;
The decision to conditionally approve the proposed modification application for a
conditional use permit is based on substantial evidence in view of the record as a
whole before the City Council.
Section 3. Environmental Findings. The City Council of the City of Temecula
hereby makes the following environmental findings and determinations in connection
with the approval of Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major Modification to the
Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit for the Temecula Valley Hospital (the
(:
A. On January 24, 2006, the City Council approved and certified the Final
22, 2008, the City Council approved and certified the Final Supplemental Environmental
the City Council approved and certified the Addendum to the Final Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report.
B. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), City staff
prepared an Initial Study of the potential environmental effects of the approval of the
Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit Major Modification Application (the
e Initial Study. Based upon the findings contained in that
study, City staff determined that the City determined that the proposed modifications to
the project did trigger conditions described in Sections 15162 and 15163 of the CEQA
Guidelines which require the preparation of a Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report (SEIR) and that a SEIR is appropriate for the proposed modifications to the
hospital project.
C. On November 25, 2013, a Notice of Preparation was released to all
agencies and persons that might be affected by the project.
D. On December 11, 2013, a scoping session was held at which time City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to determine the extent of issues to be
addressed in the SEIR for the Project.
E. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, City staff prepared a
SEIR analyzing the potential environmental effects of the approval of the Development
Plan and Conditional Use Permit Major Modification, and described in the SEIR. Based
upon the finding contained in that study, City staff determined that there was substantial
evidence that the Project could result in new significant effects or increase the severity
of previously identified effects. The Supplemental EIR found that new circumstances do
exist that introduce new significant effects or increase the severity of previously
identified significant effects and a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and
Statement of Overriding Considerations was prepared.
F. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of Completion indicating the
public comment period and intent to adopt the SEIR as required by law. The public
comment period commenced via the State Clearing House from November 12, 2014
through December 26, 2014. Copies of the documents were available for public review
and inspection at the offices of the Department of Community Development, located at
41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590; the Temecula Public Library located at
30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula website.
G. Six written comments were received prior to the public hearing and a
response to all the comments made therein was prepared, submitted to the Planning
Commission and Incorporated into the administrative record of proceedings.
H. The Planning Commission reviewed the SEIR and corresponding
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Statement of Overriding
Considerations and all comments received regarding these documents prior to and at
the April 15, 2015 public hearing and based on the whole record before it found that:
(1) the SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of
Overriding Considerations were prepared in compliance with CEQA; (2) there was
substantial evidence that the Project will have a significant effect on the environment
with regard to helicopter noise; and (3) the SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations reflect the independent judgment
of the Planning Commission.
I. On July 27, 2015, prior to the July 28, 2015 City Council hearing
scheduled for the project, staff received a letter from legal counsel representing the Los
analysis, project description, and feasible mitigation measures contained within the
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Project. At the July 28,
2015 City Council hearing the City Council continued the application off calendar to
provide time to revise the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report to address the
comment letter through a Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.
J. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of Completion indicating the
public comment period and intent to adopt the Recirculated SEIR as required by law.
The public comment period commenced via the State Clearing House from February 8,
2016 to March 23, 2016. Copies of the documents have been available for public
review and inspection at the offices of the Department of Community Development,
located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590; the Temecula Public Library
located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula website.
K. Five written comments were received prior to the public hearing and a
response to all the comments made therein was prepared, submitted to the Planning
Commission and incorporated into the administrative record of proceedings.
L. The Planning Commission reviewed the Recirculated SEIR and
corresponding Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Statement of
Overriding Considerations and all comments received regarding these documents prior
to and at the May 4, 2016 public hearing and based on the whole record before it found
that: (1) the Recirculated SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and
Statement of Overriding Considerations were prepared in compliance with CEQA; (2)
there is substantial evidence that the Project will have a significant effect on the
environment with regard to helicopter noise; and (3) the Recirculated SEIR, Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations
reflected the independent judgment of the Planning Commission.
M. The custodian of records for the FEIR, the SFEIR, the Addendum for the
modification application, the second SFEIR, the Recirculated SFEIR and all other
materials, which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the Planning
of Temecula. Those documents are available for public review in the Planning
Department located at the Planning Department of the City of Temecula, 41000 Main
Street, Temecula, California.
N. All legal prerequisites to the approval of this Resolution have occurred.
Section 4. Conditions. The City Council of the City of Temecula hereby
approves the Major Modification Application to a Development Plan (PA07-0200) and
Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the
previously approved helistop to two new locations including an interim location for use
during preliminary project phases and a permanent location on the roof of a future
hospital tower to be constructed during a later phase and to construct an approximately
5,000 square foot single story storage building for non-hazardous material storage
(including disaster supplies, linens, and storage of excess construction materials to
allow for repairs) to be located at the site of the previously approved helistop on 35.3
acres generally located on the north side of Temecula Parkway, approximately 700 feet
west of Margarita Road, known as Assessor Parcel Number 959-080-026, as set forth in
Planning Application No. PA13-0141, subject to the specific Conditions of Approval set
forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference as though
set forth in full.
Section 5. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and it
shall become effective upon its adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED
by the City Council of the City of
Temecula this 24th day of May, 2016.
Michael S. Naggar, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Randi Johl-Olson, City Clerk
\[SEAL\]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Randi Johl-Olson, City Clerk of the City of Temecula, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Resolution No. 16- was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the
City of Temecula at a meeting thereof held on the 24th day of May, 2016, by the following
vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Randi Johl-Olson, City Clerk
EXHIBIT B
DRAFT CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
EXHIBIT A
CITY OF TEMECULA
DRAFT CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PA13-0141
Planning Application No.:
UHS Helistop Major Modification: A Major Modification to a Development
Project Description:
Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the Temecula
Valley Hospital to relocate a previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project
phases and a permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be
constructed during a later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000
square foot single story storage building for non-hazardous material storage
(including disaster supplies, linens, and storage of excess construction
materials to allow for repairs) to be located at the site of the previously
approved helistop. The 35.3 acre hospital site is generally located on the
north side of Temecula Parkway, approximately 800 feet west of Margarita
Road at 31700 Temecula Parkway.
959-080-026
Assessor's Parcel No.:
Commercial
MSHCP Category:
Service Commercial/Office
DIF Category:
Service Commercial/Office
TUMF Category:
NA (Non-Residential Project)
Quimby Category:
May 25, 2016
Approval Date:
May 24, 2018
Expiration Date:
PLANNING DIVISION
Within 48 Hours of the Approval
1. Filing Notice of Determination. The applicant/developer shall deliver to the Planning Division a
check or money order made payable to the County Clerk in the amount of Fifty Dollars
($50.00) for the County administrative fee, to enable the City to file the Notice of Determination
with De Minimus Finding as provided under Public Resources Code Section 21152 and
California Code of Regulations Section 15062. If within said 48-hour period the applicant/
developer has not delivered to the Planning Division the check as required above, the approval
for the project granted shall be void by reason of failure of condition (Fish and Wildlife Code
Section 711.4(c)).
General Requirements
2. Compliance with Previous Approvals. Except where modified by this approval, all Conditions
of Approval for Planning Application Nos. PA10-0194 (Major Modification), PA07-0200
(Development Plan), and PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permit) remain in effect and shall be
complied with.
3. Indemnification of the City. The applicant and owner of the real property subject to this
condition shall hereby agree to indemnify, protect, hold harmless, and defend the City with Legal
proceedings against the City to attack, set aside, annul, or seek monetary damages resulting,
directly or indirectly, from any action in furtherance of and the approval of the City, or any agency
or instrumentality thereof, advisory agency, appeal board or legislative body including actions
approved by the voters of the City, concerning the Planning Application. The City shall be
deemed for purposes of this condition, to include any agency or instrumentality thereof, or any
of its elected or appointed officials, officers, employees, consultants, contractors, legal counsel,
and agents. City shall promptly notify both the applicant and landowner of any claim, action, or
proceeding to which this condition is applicable and shall further cooperate fully in the defense
of the action. The City reserves the right to take any and all action the City deems to be in the
best interest of the City and its citizens in regards to such defense.
4. Expiration. This approval shall be used within two years of the approval date; otherwise, it
shall become null and void. By use is meant the beginning of substantial construction
contemplated by this approval within the two year period, which is thereafter diligently pursued
to completion, or the beginning of substantial utilization contemplated by this approval, or use of
a property in conformance with a Conditional Use Permit.
5. Time Extension. The Director of Community Development may, upon an application being filed
prior to expiration, and for good cause, grant a time extension of up to 3 one-year extensions of
time, one year at a time.
6. City Plan Review Prior to OSHPD Submittal. Prior to submittal of plans for bed tower 2 and/or
the rooftop helistop to the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, the applicant
shall submit the plans to the City of Temecula Community Development Department for review
and shall complete a Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission review of the permanent
helistop prior to its approval by the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
7. Compliance with EIR. The project and all subsequent projects within this site shall comply with
all mitigation measures identified within EIR No. (enter EIR # here).
8. Conformance with Approved Plans. The development of the premises shall substantially
conform to the approved site plan and elevations contained on file with the Planning Division.
9. Landscape Maintenance. Landscaping installed for the project shall be continuously
maintained to the reasonable satisfaction of the Director of Community Development. If it is
determined that the landscaping is not being maintained, the Director of Community
Development shall have the authority to require the property owner to bring the landscaping into
conformance with the approved landscape plan. The continued maintenance of all landscaped
areas shall be the responsibility of the developer or any successors in interest.
10. Graffiti. All graffiti shall be removed within 24 hours on telecommunication towers, equipment,
walls, or other structures.
11. Water Quality and Drainage. Other than stormwater, it is illegal to allow liquids, gels, powders,
sediment, fertilizers, landscape debris, and waste from entering the storm drain system or from
leaving the property. To ensure compliance with this Condition of Approval:
a. Spills and leaks shall be cleaned up immediately.
b. Do not wash, maintain, or repair vehicles on site.
c. Do not hose down parking areas, sidewalks, alleys, or gutters.
d. Ensure that all materials and products stored outside are protected from rain.
e. Ensure all trash bins are covered at all times.
12. Paint Inspection. The applicant shall paint a three-foot-by-three-foot section of the building for
Planning Division inspection, prior to commencing painting of the building.
13. Photographic Prints.. The applicant shall submit to the Planning Division for permanent filing
two 8" X 10" glossy photographic color prints of the approved color and materials board and the
colored architectural elevations. All labels on the color and materials board and Elevations
shall be readable on the photographic prints.
14. Materials and Colors. The Conditions of Approval specified in this resolution, to the extent
specific items, materials, equipment, techniques, finishes or similar matters are specified, shall
equipment, finish or technique that City staff determines to be the substantial equivalent of that
required by the Conditions of Approval. Staff may elect to reject the request to substitute, in
which case the real party in interest may appeal, after payment of the regular cost of an appeal,
the decision to the Planning Commission for its decision.
Materials & Colors:
a. Storage building main body color -- Dryvit #456, "oyster Shell" in "Sandblast"
texture to match existing hospital building
b. Storage building base -- Indian Red to match existing hospital building
c. Storage building aluminum shadow box windows -- Medium bronze to match
existing hospital building
d. Storage building tinted glass -- Bronze tint to match existing hospital building
e. Storage building stucco cornice -- Indian Red to match existing hospital building trim
15. Modifications or Revisions. The permittee shall obtain City approval for any modifications or
revisions to the approval of this project
16. Trash Enclosures. The trash enclosures shall be large enough to accommodate a recycling
bin, as well as regular solid waste containers.
17. Trash Enclosures. Trash enclosures shall be provided to house all trash receptacles utilized
on the site. These shall be clearly labeled on the site plan.
18. Covered Trash Enclosures. All trash enclosures on site shall include a solid cover and the
construction plans shall include all details of the trash enclosures, including the solid cover.
19. Phased Construction. If construction is phased, a construction staging area plan or phasing
plan for construction equipment and trash shall be approved by the Director of Community
Development.
20. Revocation of CUP. This Conditional Use Permit may be revoked pursuant to Section
21. City Review and Modification of CUP. The City, its Director of Community Development,
Planning Commission, and City Council retain and reserve the right and jurisdiction to review
and modify this Conditional Use Permit (including the Conditions of Approval) based on
changed circumstances. Changed circumstances include, but are not limited to, the
modification of business, a change in scope, emphasis, size of nature of the business, and the
expansion, alteration, reconfiguration or change of use. The reservation of right to review any
Conditional Use Permit granted or approved or conditionally approved hereunder by the City, its
Director of Community Development, Planning Commission and City Council is in addition to,
and not in-lieu of, the right of the City, its Director of Community Development, Planning
Commission, and City Council to review, revoke or modify any Conditional Use Permit approved
or conditionally approved hereunder for any violations of the conditions imposed on such
Conditional Use Permit or for the maintenance of any nuisance condition or other code violation
thereon.
22. Construction and Demolition Debris solid
waste hauler for disposal of construction and demolition debris and shall provide the Planning
disposal of construction and demolition debris. Only the City
and construction debris.
23. Public Art Ordinance
Ordinance as defined in Section 5.08 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
Prior to Issuance of Grading Permit
24. Placement of Transformer. Provide the Planning Division with a copy of the underground
water plans and electrical plans for verification of proper placement of transformer(s) and
double detector check prior to final agreement with the utility companies.
25. Placement of Double Detector Check Valves. Double detector check valves shall be installed
at locations that minimize their visibility from the public right-of-way, subject to review and
approval by the Director of Community Development.
26. Archaeological/Cultural Resources Grading Note. The following shall be included in the Notes
site,
archaeological/cultural resources, or any artifacts or other objects which reasonably appears to
be evidence of cultural or archaeological resource are discovered, the property owner shall
immediately advise the City of such and the City shall cause all further excavation or other
disturbance of the affected area to immediately cease. The Director of Community
Development at his/her sole discretion may require the property owner to deposit a sum of
money it deems reasonably necessary to allow the City to consult and/or authorize an
independent, fully qualified specialist to inspect the site at no cost to the City, in order to assess
the significance of the find. Upon determining that the discovery is not an archaeological/
cultural resource, the Director of Community Development shall notify the property owner of
such determination and shall authorize the resumption of work. Upon determining that the
discovery is an archaeological/cultural resource, the Director of Community Development shall
notify the property owner that no further excavation or development may take place until a
mitigation plan or other corrective measures have been approved by the Director of Community
27. Discovery of Cultural Resources. The following shall be included in the Notes Section of the
Grading Plan: "If cultural resources are discovered during the project construction (inadvertent
discoveries), all work in the area of the find shall cease, and a qualified archaeologist and
representatives of the Pechanga Tribe shall be retained by the project sponsor to investigate the
find, and make recommendations as to treatment and mitigation."
28. Relinquishment of Cultural Resources. The following shall be included in the Notes Section of
the Grading Plan: "The landowner agrees to relinquish ownership of all cultural resources,
including all archaeological artifacts that are found on the project area, to the Pechanga Tribe
for proper treatment and disposition."
29. Preservation of Sacred Sites. The following shall be included in the Notes Section of the
Grading Plan: "All sacred sites are to be avoided and preserved."
30. MSHCP Pre-Construction Survey. A 30-day preconstruction survey, in accordance with
MSHCP guidelines and survey protocol, shall be conducted prior to ground disturbance. The
results of the 30-day preconstruction survey shall be submitted to the Planning Division prior to
scheduling the pre-grading meeting with Public Works.
31. Burrowing Owl Grading Note. The following shall be included in the Notes Section of the
-grading
meeting with Public Works. All project sites containing suitable habitat for burrowing owls,
whether owls were found or not, require a 30-day preconstruction survey that shall be
conducted within 30 days prior to ground disturbance to avoid direct take of burrowing owls. If
the results of the survey indicate that no burrowing owls are present on-site, then the project
may move forward with grading, upon Planning Division approval. If burrowing owls are found
to be present or nesting on-site during the preconstruction survey, then the following
recommendations must be adhered to: Exclusion and relocation activities may not occur
during the breeding season, which is defined as March 1 through August 31, with the following
exception: From March 1 through March 15 and from August 1 through August 31 exclusion
and relocation activities may take place if it is proven to the City and appropriate regulatory
agencies (if any) that egg laying or chick rearing is not taking place. This determination must
Prior to Issuance of Building Permit
32. Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). The City of Temecula adopted an ordinance
on March 31, 2003 to collect fees for a Riverside County area wide Transportation Uniform
Mitigation Fee (TUMF). This project is subject to payment of these fees at the time of building
permit issuance. The fees are subject to the provisions of Chapter 15.08 of the Temecula
Municipal Code and the fee schedule in effect at the time of building permit issuance.
33.
Downspouts. All downspouts shall be internalized.
34. Development Impact Fee (DIF). The developer shall comply with the provisions of Title 15,
Chapter 15.06 of the Temecula Municipal Code and all its resolutions by paying the appropriate
City fee.
35. Photometric Plan. The applicant shall submit a photometric plan, including the parking lot, to
the Planning Division, which meets the requirements of the Development Code and the
Riverside County Palomar Lighting Ordinance 655. The parking lot light standards shall be
placed in such a way as to not adversely affect the growth potential of the parking lot trees.
36. Construction Landscaping and Irrigation Plans. Four (4) copies of Construction Landscaping
and Irrigation Plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Planning Division. These plans
shall be submitted as a separate submittal, not as part of the building plans or other plan set.
These plans shall conform to the approved conceptual landscape plan, or as amended by these
conditions. The location, number, height and spread, water usage or KC value, genus,
species, and container size of the plants shall be shown. The plans shall be consistent with the
Water Efficient Ordinance and Water Storage Contingency Plan per the Rancho California
Water District. The plans shall be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee (per the City of
Temecula Fee Schedule at time of submittal) and one copy of the approved Grading Plan.
37. Landscaping Site Inspections. The Landscaping and Irrigation Plans shall include a note
at installation of irrigation while trenches are open. This will verify that irrigation equipment and
layout is per plan specifications and details. Any adjustments or discrepancies in actual
conditions will be addressed at this time and will require an approval to continue. Where
applicable, a mainline pressure check will also be conducted. This will verify that the irrigation
mainline is capable of being pressurized to 150 psi for a minimum period of two hours without
loss of pressure. The second inspection will verify that all irrigation systems are operating
properly, and to verify that all plantings have been installed consistent with the approved
construction landscape plans. The third inspection will verify property landscape maintenance
for release of the one-
the Planning Division to schedule inspections.
38. Agronomic Soils Report. The Landscaping and Irrigation Plans shall include a note on the
provide two copies of an agronomic soils report at the first
39. Water Usage Calculations. The Landscaping and Irrigation Plans shall include water usage
calculations per Chapter 17.32 of the Development Code (Water Efficient Ordinance), the total
cost estimate of plantings and irrigation (in accordance with approved plan). Applicant shall
use evapotranspiration (ETo) factor of 0.70 for calculating the maximum allowable water
budget.
40. Landscape Maintenance Program. A landscape maintenance program shall be submitted to
the Planning Division for approval. The landscape maintenance program shall detail the
proper maintenance of all proposed plant materials to assure proper growth and landscape
development for the long-term esthetics of the property. The approved maintenance program
shall be provided to the landscape maintenance contractor who shall be responsible to carry out
the detailed program.
41. Specifications of Landscape Maintenance Program. Specifications of the landscape
inspection will be conducted at installation of irrigation while trenches are open. This will verify
that irrigation equipment and layout is per plan specifications and details. Any adjustments or
discrepancies in actual conditions will be addressed at this time and will require an approval to
continue. Where applicable, a mainline pressure check will also be conducted. This will verify
that the irrigation mainline is capable of being pressurized to 150 psi for a minimum period of
two hours without loss of pressure. The second inspection will verify that all irrigation systems
are operating properly, and to verify that all plantings have been installed consistent with the
approved construction landscape plans. The third inspection will verify property landscape
maintenance for release of the one-
shall contact the Planning Division to schedule inspections.
42. Irrigation. The landscaping plans shall include automatic irrigation for all landscaped areas
and complete screening of all ground mounted equipment from view of the public from streets
and adjacent property.
43. Hardscaping. The landscape plans shall include all hardscaping for equestrian trails and
pedestrian trails within private common areas.
44. Precise Grading Plans. Precise Grading Plans shall be consistent with the approved rough
grading plans including all structural setback measurements.
45. WQMP Treatment Devices. All WQMP treatment devices, including design details, shall be
shown on the construction landscape plans. If revisions are made to the WQMP design that
result in any changes to the conceptual landscape plans after entitlement, the revisions will be
shown on the construction landscape plans, subject to the approval of the Director of
Community Development.
46. Utility Screening. All utilities shall be screened from public view. Landscape construction
drawings shall show and label all utilities and provide appropriate screening. Provide a
three-foot clear zone around fire check detectors as required by the Fire Department before
starting the screen. Group utilities together in order to reduce intrusion. Screening of utilities
is not to look like an after-thought. Plan planting beds and design around utilities. Locate all
light poles on plans and ensure that there are no conflicts with trees.
Prior to Release of Power, Building Occupancy or Any Use Allowed by This Permit
47. Letter of Substantial Conformance. The applicant shall submit a letter of substantial
conformance, subject to field verification by the Director of Community Development or his/her
designee. Said letter of substantial conformance shall be prepared by the project designer and
shall indicate that all plant materials and irrigation system components have been installed in
accordance with the approved final landscape and irrigation plans. Such letter of substantial
conformance shall be submitted prior to scheduling for the final inspection.
48. Landscape Installation Consistent with Construction Plans. All required landscape planting
and irrigation shall have been installed consistent with the approved construction plans and
shall be in a condition acceptable to the Director of Community Development. The plants shall
be healthy and free of weeds, disease, or pests. The irrigation system shall be properly
constructed and in good working order.
49. Performance Securities. Performance securities, in amounts to be determined by the Director
of Community Development, to guarantee the maintenance of the plantings in accordance with
the approved construction landscape and irrigation plan, shall be filed with the Planning Division
for a period of one year from final Certificate of Occupancy. After that year, if the landscaping
and irrigation system have been maintained in a condition satisfactory to the Director of
Community Development, the bond shall be released upon request by the applicant.
50. Installation of Site Improvements. All site improvements, including but not limited to, parking
areas and striping shall be installed.
51. Compliance with Conditions of Approval. All of the foregoing conditions shall be complied with
prior to occupancy or any use allowed by this permit.
Outside Agencies
52. Compliance with RCALUC Conditions. The applicant shall comply with the conditions
provided in the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission letter dated March 4, 2014.
53. RCALUC Review of Permanent Helistop. The applicant shall complete a Riverside County
Airport Land Use Commission review of the permanent helistop prior to its approval by Caltrans
Division of Aeronautics and prior to its installation. Furthermore, the Riverside County Airport
Land Use Commission's conditions on the permanent helistop shall be incorporated into any
subsequent permits that the City may issue to implement the actions of the Office of Statewide
Health Planning and Development.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
General Requirements
54. Conditions of Approval. The developer shall comply with all Conditions of Approval, the
Engineering and Construction Manual and all City codes/standards at no cost to any
governmental agency.
55. Entitlement Approval. The developer shall comply with the approved site plan, the conceptual
Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) and other relevant documents approved during
entitlement. Any significant omission to the representation of site conditions may require the
plans to be resubmitted for further review and revision.
56. Precise Grading Permit. A precise grading permit for onsite improvements (outside of public
right-of-way) shall be obtained from Public Works
57. Encroachment Permits. Prior to commencement of any applicable construction,
encroachment permit(s) are required; and shall be obtained from Public Works for public offsite
improvements;
Prior to Issuance of a Grading Permit
58. Environmental Constraint Sheet (ECS). The developer shall comply with all constraints per the
recorded ECS with any underlying maps related to the subject property.
59. Grading/Erosion & Sediment Control Plan. The developer shall submit a grading/erosion &
sediment control plan(s) to be reviewed and approved by Public Works. All plans shall be
coordinated for consistency with adjacent projects and existing improvements contiguous to the
site. The approved plan shall include all final WQMP water quality facilities and all
construction-phase pollution-prevention controls to adequately address non-permitted runoff.
Engineering & Construction Manual at:
http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Government/PublicWorks/engineeringconstmanual.ht
m
60. Erosion & Sediment Control Securities. The developer shall comply with the provisions of
Chapter 24, Section 18.24.140 of the Temecula Municipal Code by posting security and
entering into an agreement to guarantee the erosion & sediment control improvements.
61. NPDES General Permit Compliance. The developer shall obtain project coverage under the
State National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for
Construction Activities and shall provide the following:
a. A copy of the Waste Discharge Identification Number (WDID) issued by the State
Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB);
b.
c. The name, contact information and certification number of the Qualified SWPPP
Developer (QSD)
Pursuant to the State Water
water ordinance, a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) shall be generated and
submitted to the Board. Throughout the project duration, the SWPPP shall be routinely
updated and readily available (onsite) to the State and City. Review
www.cabmphandbooks.com for SWPPP guidelines. Refer to the following link:
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/construction.shtml
62. Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) and O&M Agreement. Water Quality Management
Plan (WQMP) and O&M Agreement. The developer shall submit a revision to the original
WQMP (prepared by a registered professional engineer) that was approved with the original
grading permit. It must receive acceptance by Public Works. A copy of the updated
project-specific WQMP must be kept onsite at all times. In addition, the updated WQMP
Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Agreement shall be revised accordingly and submitted for
review and approval. Refer to the WQMP template and agreement link below:
http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Government/PublicWorks/WQMPandNPDES/WQMP.
htm
63. Drainage. All applicable drainage shall be depicted on the grading plan and properly
accommodated with onsite drainage improvements and water quality facilities, which shall be
privately maintained. Alterations to existing drainage patterns or concentration and/or
diverting flows is not allowed unless the developer constructs adequate drainage improvements
and obtains the necessary permissions from the downstream property owners. All drainage
leaving the site shall be conveyed into a public storm drain system, if possible. The creation of
new cross lot drainage is not permitted
64. Soils Report. A soils report, prepared by a registered soil or civil engineer, shall be submitted to
conditions and provide recommendations for the construction of engineered structures and
preliminary pavement sections
Prior to Issuance of Building Permit(s)
65. Certifications. Certifications are required from the registered civil engineer-of-record certifying
-of-record
certifying compaction of the building pad(s).
Prior to Issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy
66. Completion of Improvements. The developer shall complete all work per the approved plans
and Conditions of Approval to the satisfaction of the City Engineer. This includes all onsite
work (including water quality facilities), public improvements and the executed WQMP
Operation and Maintenance agreement
67. Utility Agency Clearances. The developer shall receive written clearance from applicable utility
agencies (i.e., Rancho California and Eastern Municipal Water Districts, etc.) for the completion
of their respective facilities and provide to Public Works.
68. Replacement of Damaged Improvements/Monuments. Any appurtenance damaged or broken
during development shall be repaired or removed and replaced to the satisfaction of Public
Works. Any survey monuments damaged or destroyed shall be reset per City Standards by a
qualified professional pursuant to the California Business and Professional Code Section 8771
69. Certifications. All necessary certifications and clearances from engineers, utility companies
and public agencies shall be submitted as required by Public Works.
BUILDING AND SAFETY DIVISION
General Requirements
70. Disabled Access. Applicant shall provide details of all applicable disabled access provisions
and building setbacks on plans to include:
a. All ground floor units to be adaptable.
b. Disabled access from the public way to the main entrance of the building.
c. Van accessible parking located as close as possible to the main entry.
d. Path of accessibility from parking to furthest point of improvement.
e. Path of travel from public right-of-way to all public areas on site, such as trash enclosures.
71. County of Riverside Mount Palomar Ordinance. Applicant shall submit, at time of plan review,
a complete exterior site lighting plan showing compliance with County of Riverside Mount
Palomar Ordinance Number 655 for the regulation of light pollution. All streetlights and other
outdoor lighting shall be shown on electrical plans submitted to the Building and Safety Division.
Any outside lighting shall be hooded and aimed not to shine directly upon adjoining property or
public rights-of-way.
72. Street Addressing. Applicant must obtain street addressing for all proposed buildings by
requesting street addressing and submitting a site plan for commercial or multi-family
residential projects or a recorded final map for single-family residential projects.
73. Clearance from TVUSD. A receipt or clearance letter from the Temecula Valley School District
shall be submitted to the Building and Safety Department to ensure the payment or exemption
from School Mitigation Fees.
74. Obtain Approvals Prior to Construction. Applicant must obtain all building plans and permit
approvals prior to commencement of any construction work.
75. Obtaining Separate Approvals and Permits. Trash enclosures, patio covers, light standards,
and any block walls will require separate approvals and permits.
76. Demolition. Demolition permits require separate approvals and permits.
77. Sewer and Water Plan Approvals. On-site sewer and water plans will require separate
approvals and permits.
78. Hours of Construction. Signage shall be prominently posted at the entrance to the project,
indicating the hours of construction, as allowed by the City of Temecula Municipal Ordinance
9.20.060, for any site within one-quarter mile of an occupied residence. The permitted hours of
construction are Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. No work is permitted
on Sundays and nationally recognized Government Holidays.
At Plan Review Submittal
79. Submitting Plans and Calculations. Applicant must submit to Building and Safety four (4)
complete sets of plans and two (2) sets of supporting calculations for review and approval
including:
a. An electrical plan including load calculations and panel schedule, plumbing schematic,
and mechanical plan applicable to scope of work.
b. A Sound Transmission Control Study in accordance with the provisions of the Section
1207, of the 2013 edition of the California Building Code.
c. A precise grading plan to verify accessibility for persons with disabilities.
d. Truss calculations that have been stamped by the engineer of record of the building
and the truss manufacturer engineer.
Prior to Issuance of Grading Permit(s)
80. Onsite Water and Sewer Plans. Onsite water and sewer plans, submitted separately from the
building plans, shall be submitted to Building and Safety for review and approval.
81. Demolition Permits. A demolition permit shall be obtained if there is an existing structure to be
removed as part of the project.
Prior to Issuance of Building Permit(s)
82. Plans Require Stamp of Registered Professional. Applicant shall provide appropriate stamp of
a registered professional with original signature on the plans.
Prior to Beginning of Construction
83. Pre-Construction Meeting. A pre-construction meeting is required with the building inspector
prior to the start of the building construction.
FIRE PREVENTION
General Requirements
84. Fire Requirement. Guard posts will need to be constructed of steel not less than 4-inches in
diameter and concrete filled. They need to be set not less than 3-feet deep in a concrete footing
of not less than a 15-inch diameter. Top of posts shall not be less than 3-feet above ground
(CFC Chapter 3)
Prior to Issuance of Building Permit(s)
87. Required Submittals (Fire Underground Water). For the new proposed storage building the
developer shall furnish three copies of the water system plans to the Fire Prevention Bureau for
approval prior to installation for all private water systems pertaining to the fire service loop.
Plans shall be signed by a registered civil engineer, contain a Fire Prevention Bureau approval
signature block, and conform to hydrant type, location, spacing and minimum fire flow
standards. Hydraulic calculations will be required with the underground submittal to ensure fire
flow requirements are being met for the on-site hydrants. The plans must be submitted and
approved prior to building permit being issued (CFC Chapter 33 and Chapter 5)
88. Required Submittals (Fire Sprinkler Systems). The new proposed storage building will be
required to be equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system. For the new proposed storage
building fire sprinkler plans shall be submitted to the Fire Prevention Bureau for approval.
Three sets of sprinkler plans must be submitted by the installing contractor to the Fire
Prevention Bureau. These plans must be submitted prior to the issuance of building permit.
89. Required Submittals (Fire Alarm Systems). The new proposed storage building will be
required to be equipped with a fire alarm system. For the new proposed storage building fire
alarm plans shall be submitted to the Fire Prevention Bureau for approval. Three sets of alarm
plans must be submitted by the installing contractor to the Fire Prevention Bureau. The fire
alarm system is required to have a dedicated circuit from the house panel. These plans must
be submitted prior to the issuance of building permit.
PC RESOLUTION
RECIRCULATED SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT, MITIGATION
MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM, AND STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING
CONSIDERATIONS
PC RESOLUTION NO. 16-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THAT THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA APPROVE
A RESOLUTION ENTITLE OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA
CERTIFYING THE RECIRCULATED SUPPLEMENTAL
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT PREPARED FOR
THE TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP
RELOCATION AND STORAGE BUILDING MAJOR
MODIFICATION PROJECT, ADOPTING FINDINGS
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT, ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS, AND ADOPTING A
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE TEMECULA
VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP RELOCATION AND
STORAGE BUILDING MAJOR MODIFICATION PROJECT
ON THE 35.3 ACRE HOSPITAL SITE GENERALLY
LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF TEMECULA
PARKWAY, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF
MARGARITA ROAD (A.P.N. 959-080-026)
Section 1. Procedural Findings. The Planning Commission of the City of
Temecula does hereby find, determine and declare that:
A. On June 30, 2004, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.
No. PA04-0462, a General Plan Amendment; on
October 12, 2005 filed PA05-0302, a Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development
Overlay-9); on June 30, 2005 filed PA04-0463, a Conditional Use Permit and
Development Plan; and on November 4, 2004 filed PA04-0571, a Tentative Parcel
Map, in a manner in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development
Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference, for the property
consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north side of Highway
79 South, approximately 7
Numbers 959-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007 through 959-080-010
("Project").
B. The Project was processed including, but not limited to, public notice in
the time and manner prescribed by State and local law, including the California
C. On April 6, 2005, the Planning Commission considered the Project at a
duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and
interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or
opposition to this matter.
D. The Planning Commission, based on testimony presented by the general
public, determined that an Environmental Impact Report would be required for this
Project.
E. On April 20, 2005, a scoping session was held before the Planning
Commission to determine the extent of issues to be addressed in the Environmental
Impact Report for the Project.
F. A Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the
California Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act
Guidelines and circulated for public review from September 28, 2005 through October
28, 2005.
G. On November 16, 2005, and again on January 5, 2006, the Planning
Commission considered the Project at duly noticed public hearings as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did
testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
H. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-01
recommending that the City Council certify the Final Environmental Impact Report for
the Project and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
I. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-04, recommending approval of the Conditional
Use Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463).
J. On January 24, 2006, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing
as prescribed by law on the Final Environmental Impact Report at which time all
persons interested had the opportunity to present oral and written evidence on the Final
Environmental Impact Report.
K. On January 24, 2006, following consideration of the entire record of
information received at the public hearings before the Planning Commission and the
City Council and due consideration of the Project, the City Council adopted Resolution
No. 06-
TEMECULA CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PREPARED FOR PLANNING APPLICATION NOS. PA04-0462 (GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT) PA05-0302 (ZONE CHANGE), PA04-0463 (CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN) AND PA04-0571 (TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP)
AND RELATED ACTIONS, AND ADOPTING THE FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING
CONSIDERATIONS, AND A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE PROPERTY CONSISTING OF
APPROXIMATELY 35.31 ACRES GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF MARGARITA ROAD,
-080-001 THROUGH 959-080-004
AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA04-0462, PA05-0302, PA04-0463,
PA04-0571)
L. On January 24, 2006, the City Council considered the Conditional Use
Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463) at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an
opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
M. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 06-07, approving the Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan for
the Project (PA04-0463).
N. On February 24, 2006, the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic each filed a separate petition challenging the City of
Health Services, Inc.
O. On May 3, 2007, the Riverside County Superior Court ordered that the
City of Temecula set aside its approval of the Project, including without limitation, its
certification of the Final Environmental Impact Report and all related approvals and
permits, until the City of Temecula has taken the actions necessary to bring the Project
County Superior Court ruled in favor of the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic, holding that: (1) the MTBE plume was not properly analyzed
in the Final Environmental Impact Report; (2) the siren noise at the hospital was
significant and should have been mitigated; and (3) not all feasible traffic mitigation
measures were adopted for cumulative traffic impacts.
P. The Riverside County Superior Court also held that the Final
Environmental Impact Report properly addressed: (1) cumulative noise, light and glare,
and aesthetic impacts; (2) landscaping mitigation deferral; (3) biological resources;
(4) geology and soils mitigation; and (5) land use consistency.
Q. On July 12, 2007, another scoping session was held to determine the
extent of issues to be addressed in the new Environmental Impact Report for the
Project.
R.
Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines and
circulated for public review from November 5, 2007 through December 5, 2007.
S. On January 9, 2008, the Planning Commission considered Planning
Application Nos. PA07-0198 (General Plan Amendment), PA07-0199 (Zone Change),
PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permits), PA07-0200 (Development Plan), PA07-0201
(Tentative Parcel Map) in a manner in accordance with the City of Temecula General
Plan and Development Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference,
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010 ("Project"), at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law,
at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify
either in support of or opposition to this matter.
T. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearing, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-01 recommending
that the City Council certify the new Final Environmental Impact Report for the Project
and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
U. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-04, recommending approval of the
Development Plan (PA07-0200).
V. On January 22, 2008, the City Council rescinded and invalidated its
approvals of Planning Application Nos. PA04-0462, General Plan Amendment; PA05-
0302, Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development Overlay-9); PA04-0463,
Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan; and PA04-0571, Tentative Parcel Map
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010.
W. On January 22, 2008, the City Council considered the Development Plan
(PA07-0200) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the
City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support
or opposition to this matter.
X. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 08-10,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA TO
CERTIFY THE SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT PREPARED
FOR THE TEMECULA REGIONAL HOSPITAL, ADOPT FINDINGS PURSUANT TO
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, ADOPT A STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS, AND ADOPT A MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE TEMECULA
REGIONAL HOSPITAL PROJECT, LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF TEMECULA
PARKWAY (HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH) APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF
-080-
001 THROUGH 959-080-004 AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA07-0198,
PA07-0199, PA07-0200, PA07-0201, PA07-0202). The new Final Environmental
Impact Report (FEIR) and mitigation monitoring reporting program accurately addresses
the impacts associated with the adoption of this Resolution.
Y. On June 18, 2010, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.,
filed Planning Application No. PA10-0194, a Major Modification Application in a manner
in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development Code.
Z. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
AA. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on December 15, 2010, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
BB. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 10-
28 recommending that the City Council approve Planning Application No. PA10-0194
and adopt an addendum to the Environmental Impact Report for the project.
CC. On February 8, 2011, the City Council considered Planning Application
No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and di
testify either in support or opposition to this matter.
DD. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 11-17
approving Planning Application No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) and certifying an
addendum to the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for the Major
Modification at a noticed public hearing.
EE. On May 31, 2013, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc., filed
Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major Modification Application to a
Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a
permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed during a
later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single story storage
building for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster supplies, linens, and
storage of excess construction materials to allow for repairs) to be located at the site of
the previously approved helistop.
FF. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
GG. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application (PA13-0141) and environmental review on April 15, 2015, at a duly noticed
public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons
had an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
HH. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 15-06,
recommending that the City Council certify the Final Supplemental Environmental
Impact Report for the Project (PA13-0141) and approve a Mitigation Monitoring
Program for the Project.
II. I. Following consideration of the entire record of information received
at the public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 15-05, recommending approval of the Major
Modification to the Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit for the Project (13-
0141).
JJ. On July 27, 2015, prior to the July 28, 2015 City Council hearing
scheduled for the project, staff received a letter from legal counsel representing the Los
analysis, project description, and feasible mitigation measures contained within the
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Project. At the July 28,
2015 City Council hearing the City Council continued the application off calendar to
provide time to revise the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report to address the
comment letter through a Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.
KK. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, reconsidered the
Application and the Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report on May
4, 2016, at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in
opposition to this matter.
LL. Prior to taking action, the Planning Commission has heard, been
presented with, reviewed and considered all of the information and data in the
administrative record, and all oral and written testimony presented to it during the
hearing. The recommendation to the City Council as set forth in this resolution, and
finding contained herein, reflect the independent judgment of the Planning Commission
and are deemed adequate for purposes of making decisions on the merits of the
Project and related actions.
MM. All legal preconditions to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
Section 2. Environmental Findings. The Planning Commission hereby makes
the following environmental finding and determinations in connection with the
recommendation for approval of Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major
Modification to the Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit for the Temecula
A. On January 24, 2006, the City Council approved and certified the Final
22, 2008, the City Council approved and certified the Final Supplemental Environmental
the City Council approved and certified the Addendum to the Final Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report.
B. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), City staff
prepared an Initial Study of the potential environmental effects of the approval of the
Development Plan and Conditional Use Permit Major Modification Application (the
y. Based upon the findings contained in that
study, City staff determined that the City determined that the proposed modifications to
the project did trigger conditions described in Sections 15162 and 15163 of the CEQA
Guidelines which require the preparation of a Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report (SEIR) and that a SEIR is appropriate for the proposed modifications to the
hospital project.
C. On November 25, 2013, a Notice of Preparation was released to all
agencies and persons that might be affected by the project.
D. On December 11, 2013, a scoping session was held at which time City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to determine the extent of issues to be
addressed in the SEIR for the Project.
E. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, City staff prepared a
SEIR analyzing the potential environmental effects of the approval of the Development
Plan and Conditional Use Permit Major Modification, and described in the SEIR. Based
upon the finding contained in that study, City staff determined that there was substantial
evidence that the Project could result in new significant effects or increase the severity
of previously identified effects. The Supplemental EIR found that new circumstances do
exist that introduce new significant effects or increase the severity of previously
identified significant effects and a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and
Statement of Overriding Considerations was prepared.
F. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of Completion indicating the
public comment period and intent to adopt the SEIR as required by law. The public
comment period commenced via the State Clearing House from November 12, 2014
through December 26, 2014. Copies of the documents have been available for public
review and inspection at the offices of the Department of Community Development,
located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590; the Temecula Public Library
located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula website.
G. Six written comments were received prior to the public hearing and a
response to all the comments made therein was prepared, submitted to the Planning
Commission and incorporated into the administrative record of proceedings.
H. The Planning Commission reviewed the SEIR and corresponding
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Statement of Overriding
Considerations and all comments received regarding these documents prior to and at
the April 15, 2015 public hearing and based on the whole record before it found that:
(1) the SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of
Overriding Considerations were prepared in compliance with CEQA; (2) there was
substantial evidence that the Project will have a significant effect on the environment
with regard to helicopter noise; and (3) the SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations reflected the independent
judgment of the Planning Commission.
I. Thereafter, City staff circulated a Notice of Completion indicating the
public comment period and intent to adopt the Recirculated SEIR as required by law.
The public comment period commenced via the State Clearing House from February 8,
2016 to March 23, 2016. Copies of the documents have been available for public
review and inspection at the offices of the Department of Community Development,
located at 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590; the Temecula Public Library
located at 30600 Pauba Road; and the City of Temecula website.
J. Five written comments were received prior to the public hearing and a
response to all the comments made therein was prepared, submitted to the Planning
Commission and incorporated into the administrative record of proceedings.
K. The Planning Commission has reviewed the Recirculated SEIR and
corresponding Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Statement of
Overriding Considerations and all comments received regarding these documents prior
to and at the May 4, 2016 public hearing and based on the whole record before it finds
that: (1) the Recirculated SEIR, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and
Statement of Overriding Considerations were prepared in compliance with CEQA; (2)
there is substantial evidence that the Project will have a significant effect on the
environment with regard to helicopter noise; and (3) the Recirculated SEIR, Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations
reflected the independent judgment of the Planning Commission.
L. The custodian of records for the FEIR, the SFEIR, the Addendum for the
modification application, the second SFEIR, the Recirculated SFEIR, and all other
materials, which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the Planning
n is based, is the Community Development Department of the City
of Temecula. Those documents are available for public review in the Planning
Department located at the Planning Department of the City of Temecula, 41000 Main
Street, Temecula, California.
Section 3. Recommendation to City Council. Based on the findings set forth in
the Resolution, the Planning Commission hereby recommends that the City Council
certify the Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report, Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program, and Statement of Overriding Considerations
prepared for the Project as set forth on Exhibit A, attached hereto, and incorporated
herein by the reference.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED
Section 4 by the City of Temecula
Planning Commission this 4th day of May, 2016.
Ron Guerriero, Chairman
ATTEST:
Luke Watson, Secretary
\[SEAL\]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE )ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Luke Watson, Secretary of the Temecula Planning Commission, do hereby
certify that the forgoing PC Resolution No. 16-__ was duly and regularly adopted by
the Planning Commission of the City of Temecula at a regular meeting thereof held on
the 4th day of May, 2016, by the following vote:
AYES: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
ABSENT: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
ABSTAIN: PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
Luke Watson, Secretary
EXHIBIT A
DRAFT CC RESOLUTION
CC RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF TEMECULA CERTIFYING THE RECIRCULATED
SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PREPARED FOR THE TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL
HELISTOP RELOCATION AND STORAGE BUILDING
MAJOR MODIFICATION PROJECT, ADOPTING
FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, ADOPTING A
STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS, AND
ADOPTING A MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH
FOR THE TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP
RELOCATION AND STORAGE BUILDING MAJOR
MODIFICATION PROJECT ON THE 35.3 ACRE
HOSPITAL SITE GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE
NORTH SIDE OF TEMECULA PARKWAY,
APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF MARGARITA
ROAD (A.P.N. 959-080-026)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE
AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Procedural Findings. The City Council of the City of Temecula
does hereby find, determine and declare that:
A. On June 30, 2004, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.
Planning Application No. PA04-0462, a General Plan Amendment; on
October 12, 2005 filed PA05-0302, a Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development
Overlay-9); on June 30, 2005 filed PA04-0463, a Conditional Use Permit and
Development Plan; and on November 4, 2004 filed PA04-0571, a Tentative Parcel
Map, in a manner in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development
Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference, for the property
consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north side of Highway
79 South, approximately 7
Numbers 959-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007 through 959-080-010
("Project").
B. The Project was processed including, but not limited to, public notice in
the time and manner prescribed by State and local law, including the California
C. On April 6, 2005, the Planning Commission considered the Project at a
duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and
interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or
opposition to this matter.
D. The Planning Commission, based on testimony presented by the general
public, determined that an Environmental Impact Report would be required for this
Project.
E. On April 20, 2005, a scoping session was held before the Planning
Commission to determine the extent of issues to be addressed in the Environmental
Impact Report for the Project.
F. A Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the
California Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act
Guidelines and circulated for public review from September 28, 2005 through October
28, 2005.
G. On November 16, 2005, and again on January 5, 2006, the Planning
Commission considered the Project at duly noticed public hearings as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did
testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
H. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-01
recommending that the City Council certify the Final Environmental Impact Report for
the Project and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
I. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 06-04, recommending approval of the Conditional
Use Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463).
J. On January 24, 2006, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing
as prescribed by law on the Final Environmental Impact Report at which time all
persons interested had the opportunity to present oral and written evidence on the Final
Environmental Impact Report.
K. On January 24, 2006, following consideration of the entire record of
information received at the public hearings before the Planning Commission and the
City Council and due consideration of the Project, the City Council adopted Resolution
No. 06-
TEMECULA CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
PREPARED FOR PLANNING APPLICATION NOS. PA04-0462 (GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT) PA05-0302 (ZONE CHANGE), PA04-0463 (CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN) AND PA04-0571 (TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP)
AND RELATED ACTIONS, AND ADOPTING THE FINDINGS PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, A STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING
CONSIDERATIONS, AND A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE PROPERTY CONSISTING OF
APPROXIMATELY 35.31 ACRES GENERALLY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH, APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF MARGARITA ROAD,
-080-001 THROUGH 959-080-004
AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA04-0462, PA05-0302, PA04-0463,
PA04-0571)
L. On January 24, 2006, the City Council considered the Conditional Use
Permit and Development Plan for the Project (PA04-0463) at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an
opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or opposition to this matter.
M. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 06-07, approving the Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan for
the Project (PA04-0463).
N. On February 24, 2006, the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic each filed a separate petition challenging the City of
tal project proposed by Universal
Health Services, Inc.
O. On May 3, 2007, the Riverside County Superior Court ordered that the
City of Temecula set aside its approval of the Project, including without limitation, its
certification of the Final Environmental Impact Report and all related approvals and
permits, until the City of Temecula has taken the actions necessary to bring the Project
County Superior Court ruled in favor of the California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic, holding that: (1) the MTBE plume was not properly analyzed
in the Final Environmental Impact Report; (2) the siren noise at the hospital was
significant and should have been mitigated; and (3) not all feasible traffic mitigation
measures were adopted for cumulative traffic impacts.
P. The Riverside County Superior Court also held that the Final
Environmental Impact Report properly addressed: (1) cumulative noise, light and glare,
and aesthetic impacts; (2) landscaping mitigation deferral; (3) biological resources;
(4) geology and soils mitigation; and (5) land use consistency.
Q. On July 12, 2007, another scoping session was held to determine the
extent of issues to be addressed in the new Environmental Impact Report for the
Project.
R.
Draft Environmental Impact Report was prepared in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines and
circulated for public review from November 5, 2007 through December 5, 2007.
S. On January 9, 2008, the Planning Commission considered Planning
Application Nos. PA07-0198 (General Plan Amendment), PA07-0199 (Zone Change),
PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permits), PA07-0200 (Development Plan), PA07-0201
(Tentative Parcel Map) in a manner in accordance with the City of Temecula General
Plan and Development Code, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference,
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010 ("Project"), at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law,
at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify
either in support of or opposition to this matter.
T. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearing, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-01 recommending
that the City Council certify the new Final Environmental Impact Report for the Project
and approve a Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Project.
U. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings and due consideration of the proposed Project, the Planning
Commission adopted Resolution No. 08-04, recommending approval of the
Development Plan (PA07-0200).
V. On January 22, 2008, the City Council rescinded and invalidated its
approvals of Planning Application Nos. PA04-0462, General Plan Amendment; PA05-
0302, Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development Overlay-9); PA04-0463,
Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan; and PA04-0571, Tentative Parcel Map
for the property consisting of approximately 35.31 acres generally located on the north
side of Highway 79 South, approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, known as
-080-001 through 959-080-004 and 959-080-007
through 959-080-010.
W. On January 22, 2008, the City Council considered the Development Plan
(PA07-0200) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the
City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support
or opposition to this matter.
X. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 08-10,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA TO
CERTIFY THE SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT PREPARED
FOR THE TEMECULA REGIONAL HOSPITAL, ADOPT FINDINGS PURSUANT TO
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, ADOPT A STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS, AND ADOPT A MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM IN CONNECTION THEREWITH FOR THE TEMECULA
REGIONAL HOSPITAL PROJECT, LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF TEMECULA
PARKWAY (HIGHWAY 79 SOUTH) APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF
-080-
001 THROUGH 959-080-004 AND 959-080-007 THROUGH 959-080-010 (PA07-0198,
PA07-0199, PA07-0200, PA07-0201, PA07-0202). The new Final Environmental
Impact Report (FEIR) and mitigation monitoring reporting program accurately addresses
the impacts associated with the adoption of this Resolution.
Y. On June 18, 2010, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.,
filed Planning Application No. PA10-0194, a Major Modification Application in a manner
in accord with the City of Temecula General Plan and Development Code.
Z. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
AA. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on December 15, 2010, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
BB. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 10-
28 recommending that the City Council approve Planning Application No. PA10-0194
and adopt an addendum to the Environmental Impact Report for the project.
CC. On February 8, 2011, the City Council considered Planning Application
No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by
law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had an opportunity to, and di
testify either in support or opposition to this matter.
DD. Following consideration of the entire record of information received at the
public hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and due
consideration of the proposed Project, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 11-17
approving Planning Application No. PA10-0194 (Major Modification) and certifying an
addendum to the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for the Major
Modification at a noticed public hearing.
EE. On May 31, 2013, Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc., filed
Planning Application No. PA13-0141, a Major Modification Application to a
Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use Permit (PA07-0202) for the
Temecula Valley Hospital to relocate the previously approved helistop to two new
locations including an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a
permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed during a
later phase and to construct an approximately 5,000 square foot single story storage
building for non-hazardous material storage (including disaster supplies, linens, and
storage of excess construction materials to allow for repairs) to be located at the site of
the previously approved helistop.
FF. The Application was processed including, but not limited to a public notice,
in the time and manner prescribed by State and local law.
GG. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, considered the
Application and environmental review on April 15, 2015, at a duly noticed public
hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City staff and interested persons had
an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in opposition to this matter.
HH. Prior to taking action, the Planning Commission heard, was presented
with, reviewed and considered all of the information and data in the administrative
record, and all oral and written testimony presented to it during the hearing.
II. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 15-
05 recommending that the City Council approve Planning Application No. PA13-0141,
a Major Modification to the Temecula Valley Hospital Development Plan and
Conditional Use Permit, and adopted Resolution No. 15-06 recommending that the City
Council certify a Supplemental Environmental Impact Report with a Statement of
Overriding Considerations for noise impacts, subject to and based upon the findings
set forth hereunder.
JJ. On July 27, 2015, prior to the July 28, 2015 City Council hearing
scheduled for the project, staff received a letter from legal counsel representing the Los
analysis, project description, and feasible mitigation measures contained within the
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Project. At the July 28,
2015 City Council hearing the City Council continued the application off calendar to
provide time to revise the Supplemental Environmental Impact Report to address the
comment letter through a Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.
KK. The Planning Commission, at a regular meeting, reconsidered the
Application and the Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report on May
4, 2016, at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time the City
staff and interested persons had an opportunity to and did testify either in support or in
opposition to this matter.
LL. At the conclusion of the Planning Commission hearing and after due
consideration of the testimony, the Planning Commission recommended that the City
Council approve Planning Application No. PA13-0141 and adopt a Recirculated
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report with a Statement of Overriding
Considerations for noise impacts, subject to and based upon the findings set forth
hereunder.
MM. Section 15091 of the State CEQA Guidelines requires that the City, before
approving a project for which an EIR is required, make one or more of the following
written finding(s) for each significant effect identified in the EIR accompanied by a brief
explanation of the rationale for each finding:
1. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the
project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental
effects as identified in the Final EIR; or,
2. Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of
another public agency and not the agency making the finding. Such
changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and should be
adopted by such other agency; or,
3. Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations,
including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers,
make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified
in the final EIR.
NN. Section 15093 of the State CEQA Guidelines requires that if a project will
cause significant unavoidable adverse impacts, the City must adopt a Statement of
Overriding Considerations prior to approving the project. A Statement of Overriding
Considerations states that any significant adverse project effects are acceptable if
expected project benefits outweigh unavoidable adverse environmental impacts.
OO. Environmental impacts identified in the Final Recirculated SEIR that are
found to be less than significant and do not require mitigation are described in Section
IV of Exhibit A to this Resolution. Exhibit A, Findings and Facts in Support of Findings,
is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in full herein.
PP. Environmental impacts identified in the Final Recirculated SEIR that are
found to be less than significant through the imposition of mitigation are described in
Section V of Exhibit A to this Resolution.
QQ. Environmental impacts identified in the Final Recirculated SEIR as
potentially significant but which cannot be fully mitigated to a less than significant level
despite the imposition of all feasible mitigation measures are described in Section VI of
Exhibit A to this Resolution.
RR. Alternatives to the Project that might eliminate or reduce significant
environmental impacts are described in Section VII of Exhibit A of this Resolution.
SS. A discussion of the project benefits identified by City staff and a Statement
of Overriding Considerations for the environmental impacts that cannot be fully
mitigated to a less than significant level are set forth in Exhibit A to this Resolution,
which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in full herein.
TT. Public Resources Code section 21081.6 requires the City to prepare and
adopt a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for any project for which mitigation
measures have been imposed to ensure compliance with the adopted mitigation
measures. The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program is attached to this
Resolution as Exhibit B, and is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in full
herein.
UU. On May 24, 2016, the City Council considered the Final Recirculated SEIR
for the Project at a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, at which time
interested persons had an opportunity to, and did testify either in support of or
opposition to this matter.
VV. Prior to taking action the City Council has heard, been presented with,
reviewed, and considered the information and data in the administrative record, as well
as oral and written testimony presented to it during meetings and hearings. No
comments or any additional information submitted to the City have produced any
substantial new information requiring additional environmental review or re-circulation of
the Recirculated SEIR under CEQA because no new significant environmental impacts
were identified, nor was any substantial increase in the severity of any previously
disclosed environmental impacts identified.
WW. All legal preconditions to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
Section 2. Substantive Findings. The City Council of the City of Temecula,
California does hereby:
A. Declare that the City Council has independently considered the
administrative record before it, which is hereby incorporated by reference and which
includes the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report, the written and oral
comments on the Draft Recirculated SEIR, staff reports and responses to comments
incorporated into the Final Recirculated SEIR, and all testimony related to
environmental issues.
B. Determine that the Final Recirculated SEIR fully analyzes and discloses
the potential impacts of the Project, and that those impacts have been mitigated or
avoided to the extent feasible for the reasons set forth in the Findings attached hereto
as Exhibit A, with the exception of those impacts found to be significant and unmitigable
as discussed therein.
C. Certify that the Final Recirculated SEIR was completed in compliance with
CEQA.
D. Declare that the Final Recirculated SEIR reflects the independent
judgment of the City. The City Council further finds that the additional information
provided in the staff reports, in comments on the Recirculated SEIR, the responses to
comments on the SEIR, and the evidence presented in written and oral testimony does
not constitute new information requiring recirculation of the Recirculated SEIR under
CEQA.
Section 3. Certification of the Final SEIR. The City Council hereby certifies
the Final SEIR, adopts the Findings and Facts in Support of Findings as set forth in
Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference, adopts the Statement
of Overriding Considerations as set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated
herein by reference; and adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein by reference as though set forth in
full. The City Council further determines that all of the findings made in this Resolution
(including Exhibit A) are based upon the information and evidence set forth in the Final
Recirculated SEIR and upon other substantial evidence that has been presented at the
hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council, and in the record of the
proceedings. The City Council further finds that the overriding benefits stated in Exhibit
A, by itself, would justify proceeding with the Project despite any significant unavoidable
impacts identified in the Final Recirculated SEIR or alleged to be significant in the
record of proceedings.
Section 4. Conditions of Approval. The City Council hereby imposes as a
condition on the Development Plan (PA13-0141) each mitigation measure specified in
Exhibit B, and directs City staff to implement and to monitor the mitigation measures as
described in Exhibit B.
Section 5. Custodian of Records.The City Clerk of the City of Temecula is
the custodian of records, and the documents and other materials that constitute the
record of proceedings upon which this decision is based are located at the Office of the
City Clerk, City of Temecula, 41000 Main Street, Temecula, California 92590.
Section 6. Severability. The City Council hereby declares that the provisions
of this Resolution are severable and if for any reason a court of competent jurisdiction
shall hold any sentence, paragraph, or section of this Resolution to be invalid, such
decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining parts of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED
by the City of Temecula Planning
Commission this 24th day of May, 2016.
Michael S. Naggar, Mayor
ATTEST:
Randy Johl-Olson, City Clerk
\[SEAL\]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE )ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Randi Johl-Olson, City Clerk of the City of Temecula, do hereby certify that the
forgoing Resolution No. ____ was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the
City of Temecula at a regular meeting thereof held on the 24th day of May, 2016, by
the following vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Randi Johl-Olson, City Clerk
EXHIBIT B
FINDINGS IN FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDINGS
EXHIBIT A
FINDINGS AND FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDINGS
I. Introduction.
The California Environmental Quality Act, Public Resources Code § 21000, et seq. (“CEQA”)
and the State CEQA Guidelines, 14 Cal. Code Regs. § 15000, et seq. (the “Guidelines”) provide that no
public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which an Environmental Impact Report (“EIR”) has
been certified that identifies one or more significant effects on the environment caused by the project
unless the public agency makes one or more of the following findings:
A.Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project, which avoid or
substantially lessen the significant environmental effects identified in the EIR.
B.Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility of another public agency and not the
agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and
should be adopted by such other agency.
C.Specific economic, social, or other considerations make infeasible the mitigation measures or
project alternatives identified in the EIR.
Pursuant to the requirements of CEQA, the City Council of the City of Temecula hereby makes
the following environmental findings in connection with the proposed Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop
Project (the “project”), as more fully described in the Final Recirculated Supplemental EIR (SEIR). These
findings are based upon written and oral evidence included in the record of these proceedings, comments
on the Draft SEIR, comments on the Recirculated Draft SEIR, the written responses thereto, and reports
presented to the Planning Commission and the City Council by City staff and the City’s environmental
consultants.
II. Project Objectives.
As originally established in the 2006 EIR, and set forth in the Draft SEIR and Recirculated Draft
SEIR, objectives that the City of Temecula seeks to achieve with this project (the “Project Objectives”)
are as follows:
Provide for superior, easily accessible emergency medical services within the City of Temecula;
Provide for a regional hospital campus including a hospital facility, medical offices, cancer center
and fitness rehabilitation center designed to be an operationally efficient state-of-the-art facility;
Encourage future development of a regional hospital and related services;
Support development of biomedical, research, and office facilities to diversify Temecula’s
employment base;
Ensure the compatibility of development on the subject site with surrounding uses in terms of the
size and configuration of buildings, use of materials and landscaping, the location of access
routes, noise impacts, traffic impacts, and other environmental conditions;
Incorporate buffers that minimize the impacts of noise, light, visibility of activity, and vehicular
traffic on surrounding residential uses.
Њ
In addition, objectives that the Applicant seeks to achieve with this project are as follows:
Provide high-quality health services to the residents of Temecula and surrounding communities;
Provide a regional hospital facility that includes standard hospital services, with outpatient care,
rehabilitation, and medical offices;
Provide a regional hospital facility designed to be an operationally efficient, state-of-the-art
facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors; and
Provide medical offices, a cancer center and fitness rehabilitation center adjacent to the hospital
facility to meet the needs of doctors and patients who need ready access to the hospital for
medical procedures.
III. Effects Determined to be Less Than Significant/No Impact in the Initial Study
The City of Temecula conducted an Initial Study in November 2013, to determine potential
significant effects of the project. In the course of this evaluation certain impacts were found to be less
than significant due to the inability of a project of this scope to create such impacts or the absence of
project characteristics producing effects of this type. The following issue areas were determined not to be
significant for the reasons set forth in the Initial Study and were not analyzed in the EIR: (A) Agricultural
and Forest Resources; (B) Air Quality; (C) Biological Resources; (D) Greenhouse Gas Emissions; (E)
Cultural Resources; (F) Geology and Soils; (G) Hydrology and Water Quality; (H) Land Use and
Planning; (I) Mineral Resources; (J) Population and Housing; (K) Public Services; (L) Recreation; (M)
Transportation and Traffic; and (N) Utilities and Service Systems. In addition, aesthetic issues regarding
scenic vistas, scenic resources within a state scenic highway, and visual character were determined not to
be significant. The project would not result in significant impacts related to routine transport of
hazardous materials, hazardous emissions, location of a hazardous materials site, public airports,
emergency response plans, or wildland fire hazards. The project would also not result in significant
impacts related to groundborne vibration and groundborne noise, or noise impacts related to a public
airport. Impacts related to the following issue areas were found to be potentially significant and were
studied in the SEIR: (A) Aesthetics (light and glare); (B) Hazards and Hazardous Materials (safety in
vicinity to private airstrip); and (C) Noise.
A.On December 2, 2013, in accordance with CEQA Guideline Section 15082, the City published a
Notice of Preparation (NOP) of a Draft SEIR and circulated it to governmental agencies,
organizations, and persons that may be interested in the project. The NOP requested comments
within 30 days of the notice. On December 11, 2013, in accordance with CEQA Section
15082(c)(1) of the Guidelines, the City held a public scoping meeting to obtain comments from
interested parties on the scope of the Draft SEIR. No comments were received on areas other than
those already found to be potentially significant in the Initial Study.
IV. Effects Determined to be Less Than Significant Without Mitigation in the SEIR
The Recirculated SEIR found that the proposed project would have a less than significant impact
without the imposition of mitigation on a number of environmental topic areas. The less than significant
environmental impact determination was made for each of the following topic areas listed below, based
on the more expansive discussions contained in the Recirculated SEIR.
Ћ
A.Aesthetics
Potential Impact:
The proposed project would not create a new source of substantial light or glare which
would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area.
Finding:
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), the City finds that “changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant
effects on the environment.” No standard conditions of approval or mitigation measures are required or
recommended.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The total number of anticipated helistop operations is, on average,
approximately eight times per month, which can occur at anytime of the day or night. Helicopter landing
lights during the approach to the interim helistop will be directed forward toward the helistop touchdown
and liftoff (TLOF) lighting that identifies the location of the helistop. During use of the permanent
helistop, the landing light will be focused on the top of the hospital tower. The helicopter’s landing lights
would focus forward at an angle toward the helistop, not downward upon non-hospital uses, and would
not spillover onto adjacent uses. The height of the permanent helistop location would further reduce
lighting on non-hospital ground uses. The distance from the interim helistop site to the nearest residential
property line is approximately 225 feet, and the distance from the permanent helistop to the nearest
residential unit is approximately 305 feet. Because of the distance, and the focused lighting within the
urban environment, the use of standard helicopter lights during periodic helicopter flights would not result
in significant impacts.
In addition, the lighting used to facilitate the safe transport of patients between the helistop locations and
the hospital would be intermittent and would be activated after the helicopter has landed and turned off
before its departure. The lighting would be directed to the specific areas where safe pass-through is
needed and would be oriented to avoid off-site light spillover onto adjacent properties, consistent with
City lighting standards. Lighting not regulated by the FAA or Caltrans Aeronautics will comply with
City of Temecula Design Guidelines, Municipal Code, and Ordinance 655. For the interim helistop,
spill-over would also be reduced through landscaping, shielding of light fixtures, and intermittent use.
Lighting on the permanent helistop would be directed toward the interior of the roof top to avoid casting
shadows on adjacent properties. Lighting would also be consistent with the existing hospital lighting and
lighting from surrounding uses, not affecting viewers’ nighttime vision.
The project would also not introduce substantial glare to the project area because the project would
construct the interim and permanent helistops and storage buildings with typical building materials, which
would not create substantial daytime glare. Any daytime glare from the helicopter would be intermittent,
as the helicopter would only be temporarily parked on the helistop between patient loading and unloading
approximately eight times per month. Because of the limited and temporary source of potential glare
from implementation of the project, impacts related to glare are less than significant.
Potential Impact:
The project would not contribute to a cumulatively significant impact related to
lighting and glare.
Finding:
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), the City finds that “changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant
Ќ
effects on the environment,” and determines that cumulative impacts would be less than significant. No
standard conditions of approval or mitigation measures are required or recommended.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The project will have a limited contribution to existing nighttime lighting,
and with compliance to City lighting requirements, would not result in significant impacts related to
nighttime lighting and glare. As with the proposed project, the cumulative projects would be required to
be consistent with the City’s Design Guidelines, Municipal Code, and Ordinance 655, which includes
requirements to minimize illumination levels onto adjacent property lines, direct lighting down and fully
shielded to reduce the amount of glare into the night sky and onto adjacent parcels, and the use of low
pressure sodium outdoor lighting fixtures. As a result, implementation of the lighting and glare generated
from the City-compliant lighting at the already developed hospital site that would include the new interim
and permanent helistop and storage building when combined with the past, present, and reasonably
foreseeable cumulative projects would not contribute to a cumulatively significant impact related to
lighting and glare. Cumulative impacts are less than significant.
B.Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Potential Impact:
For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, the project would not result in a
safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area.
Finding:
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), the City finds that “changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant
effects on the environment.” No standard conditions of approval or mitigation measures are required or
recommended.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Proposed flight paths will route incoming flights from the east and
departing flights would leave the helistop heading west, and have been designed to avoid the existing
five-story building, trees, light poles, and utility lines. The proposed flight paths also consider the
predominant wind direction and avoid low altitude flying over residential areas. The proposed storage
building is 22 feet high (lower than the main hospital building), and located outside of the two proposed
flight paths for the interim helistop, and would not interfere with incoming or departing flights.
Implementation of these flight paths that are consistent with FAA and Caltrans design requirements, the
airport land use plan, and operating under approvals from these agencies would reduce safety hazards to
both persons in the helicopter and people residing or working in the project area. As a result, impacts
related to substantial safety risks for people residing or working in the project area would be less than
significant.
Potential Impact:
The project would not result in cumulatively considerable impact related to the safety
of people residing or working in the project area.
Finding:
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), the City finds that “changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant
effects on the environment,” and determines that cumulative impacts would be less than significant. No
standard conditions of approval or mitigation measures are required or recommended.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Hazard related impacts typically occur in a local or site-specific context
versus a cumulative context combined with other development projects, although it is possible for
Ѝ
combined effects of hazards to occur by adjacent cumulative development that involves hazardous risks.
Several projects are in the vicinity of the project area; however, none would involve helicopter landing or
other aviation-related uses. Furthermore, except for development of the hospital, none would involve
building heights that would extend into the planned flight path, such that a hazardous event on the project
site or related to the helicopter travel would result in cumulative impacts.
A limited increase in air traffic in the project vicinity would be generated from the project, which would
adhere to all safety regulations. The existing regulations related to the heliport design and flight path, and
the required FAA, Caltrans Aeronautics, and ALUC review and approvals, reduce the potential for
hazardous conditions and provide safety measures such that a cumulatively adverse condition would not
occur from implementation of the proposed project. Furthermore and as noted above, the proposed project
site is not within 2 miles of a private or public airport and would not result in any other changes in
existing air patterns. Flight paths to and from the project site would be regulated by the FAA and must
meet FAR Part 77 obstruction clearance standards. These design considerations and the limited number of
helicopter flights that would occur by the proposed project would ensure that the project’s contribution to
hazards impacts would be less than cumulatively considerable. Therefore, the effect of the heliport project
in combination with the cumulative development in the project vicinity would not result in a cumulatively
considerable impact related to the safety of people residing or working in the project area. Hence,
cumulative impacts would be less than significant.
C.Noise
Potential Impact:
The project would not cause a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels
in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project.
Finding:
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), the City finds that “changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant
effects on the environment.” No standard conditions of approval or mitigation measures are required or
recommended.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The 60 and 65 dB CNEL contours resulting from the project are
completely contained on the hospital campus. Permanent average noise increase (CNEL) resulting from
the proposed helistop project would not result in a significant noise impact as defined by the City of
Temecula General Plan. No residential areas would experience a significant permanent noise (CNEL)
impact from the proposed helistop facilities as defined by Title 21 of the State Aeronautics Act. No
residential areas or other sensitive uses would experience a significant permanent (CNEL) noise impact as
defined by Section 5.1.2 of the Riverside County ALUCP. Further, operation of the proposed storage
building would not result in a substantial increase in ambient noise levels.
V. Potentially Significant Environmental Impacts Determined to be Mitigated to a Less Than
Significant Level in the SEIR
Potential Impact:
The Recirculated SEIR identified the potential for the project to cause significant
environmental impacts in the area of temporary construction noise.
Finding:
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), the City finds that “changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant
Ў
effects on the environment.” This impact is Less Than Significant after the implementation of project
design features, standard conditions of approval, or mitigation measures.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Construction of the proposed helistop locations and storage building would
use the same types of equipment that have been (and would continue to be) used to construct the hospital
facilities. Development of the relocated interim helistop and new storage building would not increase
temporary construction activity noise levels beyond those generated by construction of the other hospital
facilities, which were previously analyzed in the approved 2008 Final SEIR. Other hospital facilities, such
as the roadways, parking lots, and future building sites are located closer to sensitive receptors than the
proposed storage building. Hence, the maximum noise from construction on the project was previously
evaluated, and there would be no substantial increase in construction noise impacts as a result of
implementation of the proposed project. Finally, the construction related mitigation measures from the
previously approved 2008 Final SEIR and 2011 Addendum to the 2008 Final SEIR were incorporated by
reference into the Recirculated SEIR, and would be implemented to mitigate construction related noise
impacts to noise to a less than significant level.
VI. Environmental Effects that Remain Significant and Unavoidable After Mitigation
As a result of the environmental analysis of the project, the City has determined that either (1)
even with the identification of project design features, compliance with existing laws, codes and statutes,
and/or the identification of feasible mitigation measures, potentially significant impacts cannot be reduced
to a level of less than significant, or (2) no feasible mitigation measures or alternatives are available to
mitigate the potentially significant impact. The City has found in accordance with CEQA Section
21081(a)(3) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(3) that “Specific economic, legal, social,
technological, or other considerations, including considerations for the provision of employment
opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or alternatives
identified in the environmental impact report.” In the environmental areas of noise there are instances
where potential environmental impacts would remain significant and unavoidable, as discussed below.
A.Noise
Potential Impact:
The project may expose persons to or generate noise levels in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies.
Finding:
The City makes the above finding in accordance with CEQA Section 21081(a)(3) and CEQA
Guidelines 15091(a)(3) and determines that this potentially significant impact is Significant and
Unavoidable.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The project would result in temporary and periodic exceedances of the
City’s Noise Ordinance (Section 9.20.040) as helicopters arrive and depart the proposed helistops. The
City’s Noise Ordinance states that noise cannot be generated that would result in the exterior sound level
on single-family residential land uses to exceeding 65 dB Lmax, and 65-70 dB Lmax for multi-family
residential. The duration of the maximum single-event noise listed in Table 3.3-9 of the Recirculated
SEIR would be limited, occurring approximately eight times per month (four departure operations and
four arrival operations) as the helicopter is approaching and departing the helistop. In prevailing wind
conditions (for a majority of flights to and from the hospital), the noise generated by helicopter flights to
Џ
and from the interim helistop would exceed the City’s exterior noise standard at 9 of the 10 receptor sites
listed in Table 3.3-9, and would result in a maximum noise level of 93.4 dB Lmax at Site 6A, the
equestrian trail. In Santa Ana wind conditions, helicopter overflight noise would exceed the City’s
exterior noise standard at all of the receptor sites and result in a maximum noise level of 100.8 dB Lmax
at Site 6A, the equestrian trail. Table 3.3-10 of the Recirculated SEIR shows the single-event noise levels
(Lmax) that would be generated as helicopters arrive and depart the permanent helistop that would be
located on the roof of the future hospital tower, which would be developed in Phase IV of the hospital
development. As shown, in prevailing wind conditions, noise from helicopter operations to and from the
permanent helistop would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at 9 of the 10 receptor sites and
would result in a maximum noise level of 89.8 dB Lmax at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments. In Santa
Ana wind conditions, the exterior short-term noise standard would also be exceeded at 9 of the 10
receptor sites and result in a maximum noise level of 87.8 dB Lmax at Site 7, the Madera Vista
apartments.
Although medical helicopter noise is exempt from the City’s Municipal Code standards (per Code Section
9.20.030), and flights for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances and cannot be restricted due
to noise (per California’s Public Utilities Code (PUC) Section 21662.4. (a)), noise from medical
helicopters would substantially exceed the City’s maximum exterior sound levels for single- and multi-
family residential uses (as identified Tables 3.3-9 and 3.3-10 of the Recirculated Draft SEIR). As a result,
implementation of the proposed project would result in a significant and unavoidable impact related to the
exceedance of noise standards.
Potential Impact:
The project may cause a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise
levels in the project vicinity and exposure of persons to excessive noise levels.
Finding:
The City makes the above finding in accordance with CEQA Section 21081(a)(3) and CEQA
Guidelines 15091(a)(3) and determines that this potentially significant impact is Significant and
Unavoidable.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Pursuant to the allowable noise levels in the City’s Noise Ordinance
(Section 9.20.040), the project would result in substantial temporary and periodic increases in noise levels
at sensitive receptors as helicopters arrive and depart the proposed helistops. Limitations on medical
flights are not allowed pursuant to California’s PUC Section 21662.4. (a), which states that aircraft flights
for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances that restrict flight departures and arrivals to
particular hours of the day or night, or restrict flights due to noise. As a result, the City cannot restrict
helicopter activity at the hospital to reduce helicopter noise.
However, changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the project to reduce the
helicopter noise related safety hazards at the equestrian trail and to require pilots to use and be trained on
the approved flight paths, maintain a log of helicopter activity to ensure compliance with the flight paths,
make contact information for registering noise complaints publicly available, and establish a community
working group that meets periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the
community to discuss helicopter noise issues. The mitigation measure below is required in order to reduce
this impact to the extent practicable. However, it would not reduce the limited but substantial noise levels
generated from helicopter overflight from both the interim and permanent helistops to less than significant
levels. Therefore, impacts related to exposure of persons to noise in excess of the allowable noise levels
А
regulated by the City’s Noise Ordinance, substantial periodic increases in ambient noise levels, and
cumulatively considerable single-event noise impacts from helicopter overflights are significant and
unavoidable.
Mitigation Measure NOI-1
: Prior to issuance of a City permit allowing helicopter operations at the
interim helistop, the Temecula Valley Hospital shall prepare and implement a Heliport Operations
Plan which requires the following measures:
Prior to helicopter operations, Temecula Valley Hospital shall develop and install signage at
both ends of the portion of the equestrian trail that is adjacent to the hospital site. The signs
will notice riders of the helistop location and its operation at the hospital. The sign will
include helicopter noise information and warnings to equestrian users. The Temecula Valley
Hospital will be responsible for the design, preparation, and installation of the sign, as well as
all related costs.
All helicopter operations at the interim and permanent helistop locations shall use the
approved flight paths, unless safety precautions require a diversion from any of the flight
paths.
Temecula Valley Hospital service contracts with air medical companies shall require that all
pilots be routinely trained to ensure that optimum arrival and departure flight paths
procedures are followed for each helicopter type that serves Temecula Valley Hospital. Pilots
would be instructed in the use of the approved approach and departure flight paths.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall maintain a log of helicopter activity which shall include a
detailed record of the type of reason for the trip, and date and time of arrival and departure. If
a diversion from prescribed flight paths occurs, the reason for diversion shall be recorded in
the log.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall make contact information for registering noise complaints
publicly available.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall establish a community working group that meets periodically
to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the community to discuss helicopter
noise issues.
Potential Impact:
The project would result in cumulatively considerable single-event noise impacts from
helicopter operations due to the level of the single-event noise that would result from helicopter overflight
and because no feasible mitigation is available to reduce noise impacts to less than significant levels.
Finding:
The City makes the above finding in accordance with CEQA Section 21081(a)(3) and CEQA
Guidelines 15091(a)(3) and determines that this potentially significant impact is Significant and
Unavoidable.
Facts in Support of Finding:
None of the cumulative projects listed that are near the project site would
involve helistop locations or any other aviation-related uses. Nearby cumulative projects involve
commercial, office, and residential development that would not result in substantial noise generation.
Furthermore, there are no proposed uses that would generate noise, such that it would combine with noise
from helicopter flights to result in a significant cumulative impact. The closest cumulative projects are
adjacent to the project site and consist of a medical office building, a surgery center, and a professional
Б
office building. These uses are complementary and consistent with the hospital uses, and would not
generate noise that would combine with the helicopter noise from the project.
However, although the above mitigation measure would reduce the project’s helicopter noise related
safety hazard to the equestrian trail and would require pilots to use and be trained on the approved flight
paths, maintain a log of helicopter activity to ensure compliance with the flight paths, make contact
information for registering noise complaints publicly available, and establish a community working group
that meets periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the community to discuss
helicopter noise issues, limitations on medical flights are not allowed pursuant to PUC Section 21662.4.
(a), which states that aircraft flights for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances that restrict
flights due to noise. The City cannot restrict helicopter activity at the hospital to reduce helicopter noise.
Therefore, it is anticipated that off-site sensitive receptors would experience a substantial temporary or
periodic increase in ambient noise levels that would be above the allowable noise levels of the City’s
Zoning Ordinance during helicopter operations. Impacts related to substantial periodic increases in
ambient noise levels in excess of the Noise Ordinance standard from helicopter overflights would be
significant and unavoidable. Given the significance of the single-event noise impacts, and in an effort to
provide a conservative approach as mandated by CEQA, noise impacts from helicopter operations are
deemed to be cumulatively considerable.
VII. Project Alternatives
A. Alternatives Considered and Eliminated in the SEIR
CEQA requires that an EIR consider a reasonable range of feasible alternatives (CEQA Guidelines
Section 15126.6(a)). According to the CEQA Guidelines, alternatives should be those that would attain
most of the basic project objectives and avoid or substantially lessen one or more significant effects of the
project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6). The “range of alternatives” is governed by the “rule of
reason,” which requires the EIR to set forth only those alternatives necessary to permit an informed and
reasoned choice by the lead agency and to foster meaningful public participation (CEQA Guidelines
Section 15126.6(f)).
CEQA requires that feasibility of alternatives be considered. Among the factors that can be used to
eliminate alternatives from detailed consideration in an EIR is failure to meet most of the basic Project
Objectives, infeasibility, or inability to avoid significant environmental impacts. (CEQA Guidelines
Section 15126.6(c)) CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(f)(1) further states that among the factors that
may be taken into account in determining feasibility are: site suitability; economic viability; availability
of infrastructure; general plan consistency; other plans and regulatory limitations; jurisdictional
boundaries; and whether the proponent can reasonably acquire, control or otherwise have access to an
alternative site. Furthermore, an EIR need not consider an alternative whose effects could not be
reasonably identified, whose implementation is remote or speculative, and that would not achieve the
basic project objectives. The following alternatives were initially considered but were eliminated from
further consideration in the Recirculated SEIR because they do not meet the majority of the project
objectives, do not avoid or substantially lessen the project’s significant impacts, and/or were otherwise
determined to be infeasible.
В
Medical Office Building Sites
. As more particularly described in the Recirculated SEIR, Phase II of the
construction of the hospital campus, which is to occur next, includes development of Medical Office
Building (MOB) 1 and a 325- space parking facility; therefore, the location for MOB 1 and its parking
facility is not available for helistop use. Additionally, the MOB 1 site is visible from the existing hospital
parking lot and from Temecula Parkway, which would make security fencing and lighting more visible in
the MOB 1 location than from the proposed interim helistop location.
Furthermore, a helistop at the MOB 1 location would not avoid or substantially lessen the significant and
unavoidable noise impacts that would occur from the proposed project. Because of the volume of
helicopter noise, there is no on-site location that would reduce the significant noise impacts resulting from
helicopter operations to less than significant levels. Thus, use of the MOB 1 location for the interim
helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
Upon completion of Phase II, MOB 2 and a 300 space parking facility would be developed adjacent to the
MOB 1 site, rendering the MOB 2 site unavailable for use after Phase II. The MOB 2 site also has
additional constraints making it an infeasible alternative. Specifically, the flight path required would
result in low-altitude helicopters flying over Temecula Parkway and obstruction clearance constraints
with the MOB 1 building. Additionally, power lines along the northern side of Temecula Parkway would
require red obstruction lights and additional red obstruction light poles would need to be installed on
hospital property, creating additional aesthetic and hazard impacts. Furthermore, a helistop at the MOB 2
location would not avoid or substantially lessen the significant and unavoidable noise impacts that would
occur by the proposed project. Due to the volume of helicopter noise, there is no onsite location that
would reduce the significant noise impacts resulting from helicopter operations to less than significant
levels. Thus, the use of the MOB 2 location for use as the interim helistop was eliminated from further
consideration.
Future Building Sites as Interim Helistop Site Alternative.
As more particularly described in the
Recirculated SEIR, the future building and infrastructure locations that are part of the approved hospital
campus facilities are not available for the interim helistop location. In addition, none of these locations
would avoid or substantially lessen the significant noise impacts resulting from helicopter operations, and
were eliminated from further consideration.
Phase II requires installation of a water-quality infrastructure system at the southeast corner of the site
that includes an infiltration storm chamber system to receive drainage from a majority of the site. The
detention basin and storm chamber area cannot be located under a structure, and therefore the southeast
corner of the site is unavailable for use either as buildings or the interim helistop facility. Additionally,
the flight path for a helistop in the southeast corner of the hospital site would result in low-altitude
helicopters flying over Temecula Parkway, and would have obstruction clearance constraints related to
the trees in the adjacent drainage that would require approval and permits from state and federal resource
agencies to trim, and thus impacts related to hazards would occur. In addition, the existing power lines
along the northern side of Temecula Parkway would require additional red obstruction lighting to be
installed, which would result in aesthetic impacts. A helistop in this site is also likely to result in low-
altitude flights over residential areas both to the south of Temecula Parkway (the Country Glen residential
area) and to the east of the drainage (the Madera Vista apartments), which would result in noise impacts
to residential areas. The southeast corner of the site would also be more visible and would not reduce
ЊЉ
significant noise impacts. Therefore, the use of this location was eliminated from further consideration.
Use of the future building site that is located on the western portion of the project site for the helistop
would result in a flight path that would have low-altitude helicopters flying over Temecula Parkway and
Dona Lynora Road, which are both adjacent to the western portion of the project site and could result in
hazards due to drivers distracted by helicopter operations. Also, helicopter activity from this location
would pose airspace obstruction-clearance conflicts with the power lines; and therefore would be required
to include red obstruction lights or additional red obstruction lighted poles would need to be installed on
the hospital property, adjacent to Temecula Parkway. This would result in hazards and aesthetics impacts.
In addition, low-altitude helicopters would travel over residential areas, office uses and likely the
equestrian trial, resulting in significant and unavoidable noise impacts. A helistop at the future building
site in the western portion of the project site would not avoid or substantially lessen the significant and
unavoidable impacts that would occur by the proposed project, as all on-site helistop locations would
result in a significant and unavoidable impact related to noise. This site would be more visible than
proposed interim helistop, which would result in greater aesthetic impacts than the proposed project.
Thus, the use of this location for the helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
The future building site located in the eastern portion of the hospital site to the south of the City-approved
helistop and to the east of the existing hospital building is closer to sensitive receptors than both the
proposed interim and City-approved helistop sites. As a result, use of this site for the helistop could result
in greater impacts to sensitive receptors than the proposed project and would not reduce the significant
and unavoidable noise impacts that would occur by the proposed project. In addition, this future building
site would have obstruction clearance conflicts related to the trees in the adjacent drainage, which would
penetrate the transitional surface of a flight path from this location and would result in greater hazards
impacts than the proposed project. Thus, the use of the future building site in the eastern portion of the
project site for the interim helistop would result in greater noise and hazards related impacts, and
significant and unavoidable impacts that would occur from the proposed project would not be avoided or
substantially lessened. Therefore, developing a helistop in this portion of the project site was eliminated
from further consideration.
The future building site to the north of the City-approved helistop site and south of DePortola Road is
surrounded by sensitive receptors that include the equestrian trail, the Los Ranchitos residential area, and
other single family residential uses along De Portola Road. Noise from helicopter operations from a
helistop in this location would directly impact these sensitive uses to a greater degree than the proposed
project; thus, it would not avoid or substantially lessen the significant and unavoidable noise impacts that
would occur from the proposed project. In addition, the interim helistop would be visible to travelers
along De Portola Road, and impacts related to aesthetics would also occur. Thus, impacts to sensitive
receptors from the helistop and helicopter operations to and from this location would be greater than the
proposed project, and the use of this location for the helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
B. Alternatives Considered in the SEIR
The alternatives addressed in the Recirculated SEIR were identified in consideration of one or
more of the following factors:
1.The extent to which the alternative could avoid or substantially lessen the identified significant
environmental effects of the proposed project;
ЊЊ
2.The extent to which the alternative could accomplish basic objectives of the proposed project;
3.The feasibility of the alternative;
4.The requirement of the CEQA Guidelines to consider a “no project” alternative; and to identify
an “environmentally superior” alternative in addition to the no project alternative (Section
15126.6(e)).
The Recirculated SEIR analyzed five project alternatives. These alternatives were considered but
ultimately found not to substantially reduce or avoid the significant and unavoidable noise impacts or
meet the project’s objectives for the various reasons stated below.
1.Alternative One – No Project /Existing Condition Alternative
Summary of Alternative:
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative assumes that the existing
condition would continue and that the City-approved helistop would not be developed. In addition, none
of the required implementation measures, such as installing obstruction lights on the Madera Vista
apartment buildings, realignment of the flight path, adding a second egress/ingress flight path, or
trimming the trees within the drainage adjacent to the hospital that would require approval and permits
from state and federal resource agencies, would be completed. The proposed storage building would also
not be developed.
Reasons for Rejecting the Alternative as Infeasible:
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative
would result in fewer impacts related to aesthetics than the proposed project’s less-than-significant
impacts because the helistop facility would not be developed and helistop lighting would not be installed.
However, this Alternative would result in greater impacts related to hazards, as the landing site does not
meet the standards of the FAA’s Heliport Design Guide or the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics criteria
for a helistop, and pilots need to divert from the existing flight path depending on wind conditions. This
alternative would also have similar or potentially greater impacts related to noise than the proposed
project. The significant and unavoidable noise impacts would not be reduced under this alternative, and
additional or more intense impacts could result that would not occur from the proposed project.
Therefore, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative is not environmentally superior compared to the
proposed project.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would only
partially meet the project objectives of providing superior, easily accessible emergency medical services
within the City of Temecula because the helicopter does transport patients as necessary. However,
because existing use of the EMS site has not completed full FAA and Caltrans Aeronautics review and
approval, and has varied flight patterns due to wind conditions and pilot discretion, the No
Project/Existing Condition Alternative would not meet the objective of ensuring compatibility of
development with surrounding uses in terms of access routes, noise impacts, hazards impacts, and other
environmental conditions to the same extent as the proposed project. Therefore, the No Project/Existing
Condition Alternative would not meet the project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project.
Finding:
Under the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative, the existing conditions will continue and
the City-approved helistop would not be developed. Under the No Project/Existing Condition
Alternative, impacts to aesthetics may be reduced, but hazard impacts would increase. This alternative
ЊЋ
would also have similar or potentially greater impacts to noise and would not reduce significant and
unavoidable noise impacts. The Council finds the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would not
meet project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project. Accordingly, the Council rejects the
No Project/Existing Condition Alternative.
2.Alternative Two – No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
Summary of Alternative
: The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative assumes that none of the
requested project approvals are granted; that the proposed storage building would not be developed, and
that the City-approved helistop would be developed. The City-approved helistop would include a 60-foot
by 60-foot helistop that would be developed on a 5.5-foot-high berm located near the northeast corner of
the hospital, approximately 100 feet from the eastern property line. This alternative would include the
City-approved flight path that would travel both to and from the helistop over the recently constructed
Madera Vista apartment buildings in a southeasterly direction, and a second flight path (as listed as a
condition in the FAA’s airspace determination letter) that would travel both to and from the helistop over
the Los Ranchitos single-family residential areas north of the project site. This Alternative would also
involve the addition of obstruction lights on the top of the two-story Madera Vista apartment buildings,
and removal or trimming of trees within the offsite riparian area that is adjacent to the project site as
required by Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. The ability to install the off-site lighting on the roof of the
apartment buildings is not under the control of the applicant or the City, but these lights would be
requested to be installed by the owner of the apartment buildings. If the owner of the apartment buildings
refused to install the lights, the applicant would be required to rotate the southeastern flight path
clockwise as required by Caltrans Aeronautics, resulting in frequent crosswind conditions for pilots
during approaches and departures.
Reasons for Rejecting the Alternative as Infeasible:
This Alternative may require installation of red
obstruction lights on the roof of the Madera Vista apartment buildings, which is not in the control of the
applicant or City, and if installed, would result in greater lighting impacts. In lieu of red obstruction
lights on the Madera Vista apartment buildings, because new residential uses are within the current City-
approved flight path, Caltrans Aeronautics Division would require Temecula Valley Hospital to rotate the
single proposed flight path clockwise (approximately 36 degrees) to clear the Madera Vista multi-family
residences to the east, resulting in a near crosswind condition for pilots on approach or departure.
Regarding noise, for a majority of helicopter operations (prevailing winds at the interim and permanent
helistops), the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would result in greater single-event noise
than the proposed project. However, this Alternative would exceed the exterior short term noise standard
at fewer receptor locations than both the proposed interim and permanent helistops under both prevailing
and Santa Ana conditions. The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would result in greater
impacts than the proposed project’s less-than-significant impacts related to aesthetics and hazards, and
similar or slightly reduced noise impacts that would continue to be significant and unavoidable.
Therefore, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative is not environmentally superior compared
to the proposed project.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would
(consistent with the proposed project) meet the project objectives of providing superior, easily accessible
emergency medical services within the City of Temecula. However, it would not meet the objectives of
ЊЌ
ensuring compatibility of development with surrounding uses in terms of access routes, hazards impacts,
aesthetics (lighting), and other environmental conditions to the same extent as the proposed project.
Finding:
Under the No Project/City Approved Helistop Alternative, there would be greater impacts
related to aesthetics and hazards, and similar or slightly reduced noise impacts that would continue to be
significant and unavoidable. The Council finds the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would
not meet project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project. The Council therefore rejects the
No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative.
3.Alternative Three – Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
Summary of Alternative:
The Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would develop the proposed
interim helistop at a different location on the project site, which would be at ground level in the
southwestern portion of the project site, approximately 144 feet north of Temecula Parkway and
approximately 275 feet from the western boundary of the project site. This alternative would include an
east-west flight path that would cross the front of the hospital site as it runs parallel to (and 144 feet north
of) Temecula Parkway. It would also travel over existing commercial and institutional uses (i.e., the
Rancho Community Church and Christian Schools). This helistop would include the same design,
lighting, and security features as the interim helistop. However, red obstruction lights would be required
on (or next to) several Southern California Edison (SCE) power poles along Temecula Parkway to warn
pilots of their locations at night. Implementation of this alternative would require helistop and flight path
design approvals pursuant to all applicable aeronautical agencies criteria (Riverside County ALUC,
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and FAA). This alternative would include development of the proposed
one-story, 5,000 square foot storage building.
Reasons for Rejecting Alternative as Infeasible
: The Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
would result in greater impacts related to aesthetics than the proposed project due to a more visible
helistop with security fencing, lighting, and potentially lighting poles. Specifically, this Alternative would
be required to install red obstruction lights on several SCE power poles along Temecula Parkway. Should
SCE not allow modification of these poles, new poles with red lighting would be required to be installed
on hospital property adjacent to the existing light poles to ensure adequate obstruction lighting for this
flight path. One of the existing power poles is located directly south of the site and would penetrate the
southern 2:1 transitional surface of this proposed flight path, requiring this light pole be lighted at night
with red obstruction lights. This alternative would result in additional nighttime lighting, and potentially
additional lighting pole structures along the roadway.
The hazards impacts by this alternative would be greater and potentially significant due to the flight path
that would run parallel and adjacent to Temecula Parkway. The flight path required for this site (because
of the prevailing winds at the project site) is an east-west flight path that would run parallel to Temecula
Parkway. One existing power pole would penetrate the southern 2:1 transitional surface of the interim
alternative site’s flight path and the planned MOB 2 would penetrate the northern transitional surface.
Accordingly, the alternative interim site’s flight path along Temecula Parkway would cause an additional
hazard related to one power pole located directly south of the site, and additional red obstruction lighting
along Temecula Parkway would be required along with a variance for a transitional surface penetration
from Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. If SCE did not install obstruction lights on its existing poles, the
ЊЍ
site would require additional poles equipped with obstruction lights to be erected on hospital property
between the SCE poles and the helistop. This introduces new, closer airspace obstructions. Further, it is
the policy of the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics to only grant variances for one side of a flight path.
Therefore, Caltrans Aeronautics would not grant a variance for power lines that would penetrate the
southern transitional surface and a second variance for MOB 2 that would penetrate the northern
transitional surface. Therefore, the planned MOB 2 building, along with the already developed
underground utilities, would need to be relocated or reconfigured so that the MOB 2 building would not
penetrate the transitional surface, and only one transitional surface would be penetrated. Overall, the
penetration of a transitional surface and the need for variances on both sides of the flight path for
implementation of the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative that is not needed for the proposed
project indicates that potential hazards impacts related to the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
are greater than that of the proposed interim helistop site.
Further, the flight path of the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative in prevailing winds not only
travels parallel to Temecula Parkway, a major arterial and state highway, but also across the frontage of
the existing hospital, and flights would land on the helistop on the ground. Hence, the helicopters would
reduce altitude (or increase altitude) as they cross the frontage of the operating hospital site and land on
the helistop that is 114 feet away from Temecula Parkway. This helicopter activity would be adjacent to
pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle travelers on the roadway and would be large-scale forefront activity, and
increased risk of driver and bicyclist distraction along Temecula Parkway during helicopter operations
could increase traffic accident potential, or could cause confusion/distraction to patients and visitors
entering the facility by personal vehicle. In addition, helicopter landings and take-offs 114 feet away from
Temecula Parkway could impact pedestrian safety along the sidewalk that front the hospital and bicyclist
safety on Temecula Parkway due to rotorwash (winds generated from the helicopter).
Noise impacts under this alternative would be reduced in comparison with the proposed project, but
would continue to be significant and unavoidable because helicopter noise from the Alternative Interim
Helistop Site Alternative would be substantially louder than both the City’s allowable noise and the
existing ambient noise levels and would directly impact residential areas. This alternative would exceed
the exterior short-term noise standard at 9 of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing winds and at 8 of the 10
receptor sites in Santa Ana wind conditions. Receptor Sites 2, 3, 6A, 6B, and 8, which are located furthest
away from the alternative interim helistop east/west flight path, would generally experience lower
maximum short-term noise levels than from the proposed interim helistop. Conversely, Sites 1 and 5,
which are in close proximity to the alternative’s east/west flight path, would generally experience greater
maximum short-term noise levels under this alternative during prevailing and Santa Ana winds than as
compared to the proposed interim helistop location. Therefore, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site
Alternative is not environmentally superior compared to the proposed project.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would not
fully meet the project objectives of providing superior, easily accessible emergency medical services
within the City of Temecula because the helistop location would be less accessible and less operationally
efficient because of the location away from the hospital, increasing patient transport time to and from the
emergency department. Furthermore, the full review and permitting processes required by this Alternative
would further delay the introduction of a fully permitted helistop, and would not fully satisfy the objective
of providing a regional hospital facility that would be an operationally efficient, state-of-the-art facility
ЊЎ
that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors. Furthermore, this alterative would not meet the
objective of ensuring compatibility of development with surrounding uses in terms of aesthetics and
hazards impacts. Therefore, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would not meet the project
objectives to the same extent as the proposed project.
Finding:
Under the Alternative Interim Helistop Alternative, there would be greater impacts related to
aesthetics, greater and potentially significant impacts related to hazards, and reduced noise impacts that
would continue to be significant and unavoidable. The Council finds the Alternative Interim Helistop
Alternative would not meet project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project. The Council
therefore rejects the Alternative Interim Helistop Alternative.
4.Alternative Four – Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative
Summary of Alternative:
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would
develop and operate helistop at ground level at the planned future hospital tower location until start of
Phase IV of the hospital project, at which time the helistop would be relocated to the proposed interim
helistop site. After completion of the future hospital tower, the permanent helistop (on the roof of the new
tower) would be operational and the interim helistop site would be removed.
This alternative includes northeast/southwest flight paths, and because helicopters would be arriving and
departing from ground level, flights would travel at a lower altitude over the Madera Vista apartment
buildings and over the existing hospital parking lot than would occur by use of the permanent helistop
that would be on the roof of the future tower. The ground level helistop in this Alternative would include
the same design, lighting, and security features as the interim helistop. In addition, red obstruction
lighting would be required on the southeast corner of the lower hospital structure, on the roof of the
Madera Vista apartment buildings, and potentially on light standards in the hospital parking lot that is
adjacent to Temecula Parkway.
Implementation of this alternative would require helistop and flight path design approvals pursuant to all
applicable aeronautical agencies criteria (Riverside County ALUC, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and
FAA).
Reasons for Rejecting Alternative as Infeasible:
This alternative would be required to install red
obstruction lights on the southeast corner of the lower hospital structure, on the roof of the Madera Vista
apartment buildings, and potentially on light standards in the hospital parking lot that is adjacent to
Temecula Parkway. With the additional red obstruction lighting that would be required for the Future
Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative that would be visible from Temecula Parkway, this
alternative would result in greater aesthetic impacts than the proposed project.
Further, the planned MOB 1 and MOB 2 buildings may also penetrate the northern transitional surface of
the flight path for the ground level helistop at the future tower site, which generates a potential hazard
impact. In addition, depending on the timing of development of the “future building site” located on the
southeast corner of the project site, the future building in this location could penetrate the southern
transitional surface, generating an additional potential hazard impact. Due to the flight paths from the
future tower location, helicopter activity would be a low-altitude event that would cross over pedestrians,
bicycles and vehicle travelers in the hospital driveway, parking lot, and Temecula Parkway. This would
ЊЏ
be a large-scale forefront activity that could cause distractions to drivers in the driveway, parking lot, and
along the roadway and lead to vehicle accidents, or could cause confusion/distraction to patients and
visitors entering the facility by personal vehicle. In addition, helicopter landings and takeoffs crossing
Temecula Parkway at a low altitude could impact pedestrian and bicyclist safety along the sidewalk that
fronts hospital due to rotorwash.
The noise from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in a
maximum noise level of 94.8 dB Lmax in prevailing wind conditions and 93.7 dB Lmax in Santa Ana
wind conditions. In comparison, the noise from the interim helistop location would be 93.4 dB Lmax, in
prevailing wind conditions and 100.8 dB Lmax in Santa Ana conditions. Therefore, the Future Tower
Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in a maximum noise level that is 1.4 dB Lmax
greater in prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of flights), and 7.1 dB Lmax less in Santa Ana
conditions than the proposed interim helistop.
A comparison of Table 4-7 (single-event noise levels from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop
Site Alternative) and Table 3.3-9 (single-event noise levels from the interim helistop) shows that Receptor
Sites 1, 2, 6A, 6B, 6C (the three sites along the equestrian trail), and 9 would experience lower maximum
noise levels from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative than by the proposed
interim helistop location; however, Sites 3, 5 and 7 would experience greater maximum noise levels by
the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative in both prevailing and Santa Ana winds,
compared to the proposed interim helistop location. In addition, Sites 3, 5 and 7 are located adjacent to
the densely populated Madera Vista Apartments and Country Glen Community and would impact more
receivers than the Sites at the non-residential equestrian trail and lower density residential uses within the
Los Ranchitos community. Moreover, compared to the proposed project, the helicopter overflight noise
from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would exceed the exterior short-term
noise standard at the same number of receptor locations during prevailing wind conditions (for a majority
of flights) and at one less receptor location in Santa Ana conditions. The Future Tower Location as
Interim Helistop Site Alternative would continue to result in a significant unavoidable impact because
helicopter noise from the alternative would be substantially louder than both the City’s allowable noise
and the existing ambient noise levels at sensitive receptors. Thus, noise impacts from the Future Tower
Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be similar to the interim location’s significant and
unavoidable noise impact.
Overall, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in greater impacts
than the proposed project related to aesthetics and hazards, and noise impacts would be similar to the
proposed project’s significant and unavoidable impacts. Therefore, the Future Tower Location as Interim
Helistop Site Alternative is not environmentally superior compared to the proposed project.
In regards to meeting the project objectives, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would require two interim helistop sites, each with new operating plans that could be
disruptive to operations of hospital, especially the transfer of emergency patients. This would result in
interfering with the project objective to provide superior, easily accessible emergency services in an
operationally efficient manner. In addition, the full review and permitting processes required by this
Alternative would further delay the introduction of a fully permitted helistop, and would not fully satisfy
ЊА
the objective of providing a regional hospital facility that is an operationally efficient, state-of-the art
facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors. Furthermore, this alternative would not
meet the objective of ensuring compatibility of development with surrounding uses in terms of aesthetics
and hazards impacts. Therefore, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would not
meet the project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project.
Finding:
Under the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative, there would be greater
impacts related to aesthetics and hazards, and similar noise impacts that would continue to be significant
and unavoidable. The Council finds the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative
would not meet project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project. The Council therefore
rejects the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative.
5.Alternative Five – Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative
Summary of Alternative:
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would develop the
helistop on the roof of the existing five-story hospital building and would have northeast/southwest flight
paths, similar to those identified for the permanent helistop. In addition, this Alternative would implement
the same design, lighting, and security features as the permanent helistop, and no additional obstruction or
lead-in lighting would be required. The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would include
development of the storage building.
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would require helistop and flight path design
approvals pursuant to all applicable aeronautical agencies criteria (Riverside County ALUC, Caltrans
Division of Aeronautics, and FAA); and seismic upgrades would be required pursuant to the California
Building Code (CBC); including the following:
Gravity Support Modifications: (1) Strengthen roof beams by welding cover plates or
tees to the beams; (2) Strengthen beam connections by fillet welding; and (3)
Strengthen the full length of approximately eight structural building columns with
cover plates. This structural work would impact use of the following hospital areas
during construction:
a. First Floor: parts of kitchen, main housekeeping, pharmacy, and the only
service corridor
b. Second Floor: two intensive care unit rooms, patient mentoring room,
respiratory services work room, and main corridor
c. Third Floor: five patient rooms and corridor
d. Fourth Floor: five patient rooms and corridor
e. Two patient elevators would need to be modified to go to the roof
Pile Foundation Modifications: Strengthen the pile foundations of the hospital
structure by adding piles. This structural work would impact the use of the first-floor
kitchen, main housekeeping, pharmacy, and the service corridor during construction.
Framing Modifications: Strengthen the building moment frames and braced frames
that support the seismic bracing system. This structural work would impact medical
ЊБ
surgery patient rooms throughout the tower, the emergency department, pharmacy,
and kitchen areas.
A fuel/water separator would need to be installed on the rooftop, the fire suppression
system would need substantial upgrades, and the existing rooftop heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning (HVAC) system may need to be replaced.
Construction of these improvements could take approximately 16 months. Exterior construction areas or
near construction equipment (such as cranes), would also be unusable, and would affect hospital
operations.
Reasons for Rejecting Alternative as Infeasible:
The proposed interim helistop site would be required
to install lead-in lights that would not be required for the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternative. Therefore, this alternative would result in fewer impacts related to the amount of required
lighting than the proposed interim helistop. Overall, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative
would result in fewer impacts than the proposed project related to aesthetics and similar impacts related to
hazards. In regard to construction noise impacts, because the hospital is a sensitive receptor and
construction would occur during its operations, construction noise would be greater under this alternative
than the proposed project. Helicopter-generated noise would continue to be substantially louder than both
the City’s allowable noise levels and the existing ambient noise levels. Thus, noise related to operation of
the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would continue to be significant and unavoidable.
Therefore, because the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would result in reduced aesthetics
impacts, similar hazard impacts, greater construction noise impacts, and reduced operational noise
impacts, it is the environmentally superior alternative.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would
require substantial improvements and upgrades to the existing hospital including: extending the elevator
to add a rooftop stop, installing equipment by crane over operating hospital areas to the rooftop, and
implementing substantial upgrades to the fire suppression and structural systems of the building. The
construction activities that would be required to implement these necessary building upgrades would
hinder use of the existing hospital facilities because of the noise, vibration, and potential hazards related
to rooftop construction. During construction of this alternative, portions of the existing hospital would be
unusable, such as the rooms on the top floor and areas nearby or underneath construction equipment, such
as cranes, and would result in operational impacts to the hospital, which would not occur from the
proposed project.
Therefore, implementation of the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would be disruptive to
operations of hospital, which would result in interference with the project objective of providing superior,
easily accessible emergency services in an operationally efficient manner. In addition, the full review and
permitting processes required by this Alternative would further delay the introduction of a permitted
helistop facility. As such, it would not fully satisfy the objective of providing a regional hospital facility
that is an operationally efficient, state-of-the art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital
doctors. This alternative would meet the objective of ensuring compatibility of development with
surrounding uses in terms of aesthetics and hazards impacts. Overall, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop
Site Alternative would not meet the project objectives to the same extent as the proposed project.
ЊВ
Finding:
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Alternative does not fully meet the project objectives. On
balance, the environmental benefits that might be achieved with this alternative are outweighed,
independently and separately, by the failure of this alternative to provide the same level of beneficial
attributes as the Project. In light of these considerations, this alternative is considered infeasible and has
been rejected in favor of the proposed project.
C. Environmentally Superior Alternative
An EIR must identify the environmentally superior alternative. A summary comparison of the
potential impacts associated with the alternatives and the proposed project is provided in Table 1. Each of
the alternatives would result in significant and unavoidable noise impacts because the alternatives would
result in noise that would substantially exceed the City’s allowable noise limit and the existing ambient
noise in the project vicinity.
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would result in reduced aesthetics impacts,
similar hazard impacts, and less helicopter noise impacts (particularly at the interim helistop). As a result,
the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative is the Environmentally Superior Alternative.
However, noise impacts would continue to be significant and unavoidable and, this alternative would
require substantial improvements and upgrades to the existing hospital, which would not occur from the
proposed project. The disruption to operations of the hospital that would occur by this alternative would
interfere with the project objectives of providing superior, easily accessible emergency services in an
operationally efficient manner. And, the delay caused by the full review and permitting processes with
FAA, Riverside County ALUC, and Caltrans Aeronautics of the existing building roof site would
interfere with the objective of providing a regional hospital facility that is an operationally efficient, state-
of-the art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors. Therefore, the Existing Hospital
Roof Helistop Site Alternative would not fully meet the objectives of the proposed project.
ЋЉ
Roof Helistop Site
but Significant and
Existing Hospital Yes, but not to the
same extent as the
fewer operations, proposed project,
construction and
existing hospital
as it would be
disruptive to
Unavoidable
operations
Greater
Greater Similar
Fewer Greater Greater Greater Fewer
and compatibility of
objectives related to
related to aesthetics
Similar. Significant
hospital operations
IVES AND THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Interim Helistop
and Unavoidable
Would not fully
Future Tower
development
meet project
Location as
and hazards
Site
related to aesthetics
Greater Greater Greater, Potentially
objectives related
compatibility of
Would not fully
Significant and
operations and
development
Interim Site
meet project
Significant
and hazards
Unavoidable
Alternative
Fewer, but
to hospital
Yes, but not to the
same extent as the
TABLE 1
and Unavoidable
access routes and
Similar or fewer,
No Project/City-proposed project
COMPARISON OF IMPACTS OF ALTERNAT
but Significant
ЋЊ
in regards to
Approved
Project
hazards
Yes Yes, but not to the
compatibility with
Similar or greater, same extent as the
proposed project
Significant and
development
in regards to
No Project/
hazards and
Unavoidable
Condition
adjacent
Existing
Noise Significant and
Unavoidable
Significant Significant
Aesthetics Less than Hazards Less than
Proposed
Project
Meets the
objectives
Category
Impact
project
D. The Project as Proposed
1.Summary of Project
The project is described in detail in the Recirculated Final SEIR.
2.Reasons for Selecting Project as Proposed
The City Council has carefully reviewed the attributes and environmental impacts of all the alternatives
analyzed in the Recirculated Final SEIR and has compared them with those of the proposed project. The
City Council finds that each of the alternatives is infeasible for reasons set forth above. The City Council
further finds that the project as proposed is the best combination of features to serve the interests of the
public and achieve the project goals of providing superior, easily accessible, operationally efficient,
emergency medical services within the City of Temecula that help meet the medical needs of the region.
The proposed heliport facilities would provide hospital doctors and patients enhanced accessibility to
state-of-the art medical procedures at other regional hospitals or specialized hospital facilities. In addition,
the proposed helistop locations would further the project objective of providing buffers that minimize the
impacts of helicopter related noise, light, and visibility of activity on surrounding residential uses.
More specifically, the project as proposed would further the project objective of providing buffers that
minimize the impacts of helicopter related noise, light, and visibility of activity on surrounding residential
uses and would respond to requirements of the FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and addresses
various impacts to recent residential development adjacent to the hospital site.
STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
The following Statement of Overriding Considerations is made in connection with the proposed approval
of the Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project (the “project”).
CEQA requires the decision-making agency to balance the economic, legal, social, technological or other
benefits of a project against its unavoidable environmental risks when determining whether to approve a
project. If the benefits of the project outweigh the unavoidable adverse effects, those effects may be
considered acceptable. CEQA requires the agency to provide written findings supporting the specific
reasons for considering a project acceptable when significant impacts are unavoidable. Such reasons must
be based on substantial evidence in the EIR or elsewhere in the administrative record. The reasons for
proceeding with this project despite the adverse environmental impacts that may result are provided in
this Statement of Overriding Considerations.
The City Council finds that the economic, legal, social, technological and other benefits of the project
outweigh the significant and unavoidable noise impacts generated by helicopter activities. In making this
finding, the City Council has balanced the benefits of the project against its unavoidable impacts and has
indicated its willingness to accept those adverse impacts. The City Council finds that each one of the
following benefits of the project, independent of the other benefits, would warrant approval of the project
notwithstanding the unavoidable environmental impacts of the project.
A.The City Council finds that all feasible mitigation measures have been imposed to either
lessen project impacts to less than significant or to the extent feasible, and furthermore, that
ЋЋ
alternatives to the project are infeasible because they generally have similar impacts, or they
do not provide the benefits of the project, or are otherwise infeasible as fully described in the
Statement of Findings and Facts in Support of Findings.
B.The proposed project would provide for superior, easily accessible, operationally efficient,
emergency medical services within the City of Temecula that help meet the medical needs of
the region.
C.The proposed project would be a critical part of a disaster response plan that would benefit
the City of Temecula and the greater region in the event of a disaster.
D.The proposed project would provide hospital doctors and patients enhanced accessibility to
state-of-the art medical procedures at other regional hospitals or specialized hospital facilities
when ambulance transport is inappropriate or not advantageous to patients.
E.The proposed project would facilitate time-sensitive, emergency care that will save lives.
Temecula Valley Hospital provides specialty services that are not available all hospitals,
including being a STEMI Receiving Center and an accredited Advanced Primary Stroke
Center. The project will allow patients to be flown in to the hospital to receive time-
sensitive, life-saving care, particularly for heart attacks and strokes. The project will also
provide more rapid transfers out of the hospital for specialty service not available at the
hospital particularly for critical pediatric care, burn patients, and trauma patients.
F.The proposed project would reduce noise and safety conflicts with adjacent residential
development, as compared to the previously approved helistop site by rerouting the flight
paths to avoid crossing residential uses and locating the flight paths over less developed areas
as well as aligning flight paths with prevailing or Santa Ana wind conditions, which allows
for maximum control over the aircraft.
G.As compared to the previously approved helistop site, the proposed project would reduce
safety conflicts and biological impacts with the existing tall trees within the adjacent riparian
area, which the Federal Aviation Administration would require to be trimmed or removed
under the currently approved flight path and helistop location.
H.The proposed project would meet aeronautical agency design safety guidelines for helistops
to ensure safe and efficient use of airspace, including Federal Aviation Administration,
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission.
Thus, the proposed Major Modification would provide a benefit to the community by enhancing access to
specialized medical procedures in the region, and would provide a benefit to the local community by
reducing effects and improving safety over the existing approved helistop locations.
The City Council finds that the foregoing benefits provided through approval of the project outweigh the
identified significant adverse environmental impacts. The City Council further finds that each of the
ЋЌ
project benefits discussed above outweighs the unavoidable adverse environmental effects identified in
the Final Recirculated SEIR and therefore finds those impacts to be acceptable. The City Council further
finds that each of the benefits listed above, standing alone, is sufficient justification for the City Council
to override these unavoidable environmental impacts.
ЋЍ
EXHIBIT C
MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
Initials Date Remarks
Verification of Compliance
130652
2016
March
/
ESA
City of Temecula
Field verification
and sign-off by
Compliance
Indicating
Action
Noise
City of Temecula
Building Official
Responsible
Monitoring
Designee
Agency
or other
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Temecula Valley
Enforcement
Agency
Hospital
EXHIBIT B
Monitoring
Ongoing
Phase
contact information for registering
Temecula Valley Hospital service contracts with air medical companies
that meets periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital
paths, unless safety precautions
helistop location and its operation at the hospital. The sign will include
Prior to helicopter operations, Temecula Valley Hospital shall develop
shall require that all pilots be routinely trained to ensure that optimum
which shall include a detailed record of the type of reason for the trip,
helicopter type that serves Temecula Valley Hospital. Pilots would be
Temecula Valley Hospital shall establish a community working group
. The signs will notice riders of the annot be restricted due to the aircraft's
preparation, and installation of the sign, as well as all related costs.
and install signage at both ends of the portion of the equestrian trail
shall prepare and implement a Heliport Operations Plan which requires the
instructed in the use of the approved approach and departure flight
rnings to equestrian users. The
helicopter operations at the interim helistop, the Temecula Valley Hospital
arrival and departure flight paths procedures are followed for each tain a log of helicopter activity
the reason for diversion shall be
Prior to issuance of a City permit allowing
All helicopter operations at the interim and permanent helistop
and date and time of arrival and departure. If a diversion from
Temecula Valley Hospital will be responsible for the design,
1
and the community to discuss helicopter noise issues.
require a diversion from any of the flight paths.
noise level per California PUC Section 21662.4.
locations shall use the approved flight
Temecula Valley Hospital shall make
noise complaints publicly available.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall main
helicopter noise information and wa
Program
that is adjacent to the hospital site
prescribed flight paths occurs, Project
Aircraft flights for medical purposes c
Reporting
Helistop
Mitigation Measure NOI-1:
recorded in the log.
and
Hospital
following measures:
Monitoring
Valley
paths.
Mitigation
Temecula
Impact
FINAL RECIRCULATED SUPPLEMENTAL EIR
TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP PROJECT
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
Prepared for April 2016
City of Temecula
TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP PROJECT
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
Prepared for April 2016
City of Temecula
550 West C Street
Suite 750
San Diego, CA 92101
619.719.4200
www.esassoc.com
Irvine
Los Angeles
Oakland
Orlando
Palm Springs
Pasadena
Petaluma
Portland
Sacramento
San Francisco
Santa Monica
Seattle
Tampa
Woodland Hills
130652
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project
Recirculated Final SEIR
Page
1.Introduction.....................................................................................................................1-1
1.1Background.............................................................................................................1-1
1.2Use of theRecirculatedFinal EIR and the CEQA Process....................................1-2
1.3Method of Organization...........................................................................................1-3
1.4Focus of Comments................................................................................................1-3
1.5Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures...................................................1-4
2.Response to Comments................................................................................................2-1
Letter SCH: State Clearinghouse.....................................................................................2-3
Response to Letter SCH: State Clearinghouse.........................................................2-5
Letter ALUC: Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission.......................................2-6
Response to Letter ALUC: Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission........2-10
Letter A:Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians.....................................................................2-12
Response to Letter A:Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians.........................................2-13
Letter B:Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians....................................................................2-14
Response to Letter B:Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians........................................2-15
Letter C:Johnson & Sedlack Attorneys at Law.............................................................2-16
Response to Letter C:Johnson & Sedlack Attorneys at Law.................................2-19
3.Errata...............................................................................................................................3-1
3.1Changes to the Recirculated Draft SEIR................................................................3-1
Tables
Table 1-1:Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures...........................1-5
Table 2-1:List of Comments Received.................................................................................2-1
i
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final SupplementalEnvironmental ImpactReportApril2016
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
This Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (Recirculated Final SEIR)
was prepared pursuant to the State of California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) of 1970 (as
amended) (California Public Resources Code 21000 et seq.) and in accordance with the State
Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA Guidelines). The City of
Temecula is the CEQA lead agency for this Recirculated Final SEIR.
The proposed project addressed in this report is a Major Modification to the planned helistop
facilities at Temecula Valley Hospital in response to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and
Caltrans Aeronautics Division comments and conditions, safety factors, and recent residential
development adjacent to the hospital. The proposed Major Modification would relocate the
previously approved helistop to two new locations, an interim location for use during preliminary
project phases and a permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower constructed during
a later phase. The previously approved helistop location would be developed with a single-story
5,000-square-foot storage building that would be used to store non-hazardous hospital supplies.
With the addition of the proposed storage building, the total square footage of the hospital facility
would increase to 571,160 square feet (from the 566,160-square-foot facility that was approved in
2010). The change in location of the helistop sites, the proposed storage building, and the
potential impacts related to those changes to the project description, is reviewed in this
Recirculated SEIRto identify potential environmental impacts that could result from the proposed
Major Modification.
1.1Background
On November 12, 2014, the City of Temecula (the lead agency) released the Draft SEIRfor a 45-
day review period and comment period, whichclosed on December 29, 2014.Pursuant to
comments received, additional analysis of the proposed project was conducted and additional
information was available; therefore, the City of Temecula included the additional information,
analysis, and editorial changes into a Recirculated Draft SEIR document. The additional
information regarding helicopter operational noise was expanded to include five additional
sensitive receptor locations, and single-event noise metrics that provide compatibility criteria for
the sensitive noise receptors in theproject vicinity.
Additionally, the alternatives analysis was expanded to include an evaluation of a second No
Project Alternative (the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative) and two new alternatives that
include the Future Tower Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative and the Existing Hospital
Roof Helistop Site Alternative. The Recirculated Draft SEIR also includes a discussion of three
1-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril2016
1. Introduction
different alternatives that involve six different locations for the helistop that were considered but
were eliminated from further consideration because they do not meet the majority of the project
objectives, do not avoid or substantially lessen significant impacts, and/or were otherwise
determined to be infeasible.
In responseto the Recirculated Draft SEIR,fivecomment letters were received. This
Recirculated Final SEIR has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of CEQA, and
incorporates comments from public agencies and the general public, and contains appropriate
responses to those comments.
The Recirculated Final SEIR is an informational documentthat must be considered by decision
makers before approving ordenying the proposed Major Modification.The RecirculatedDraft
SEIR and Response to Comments constitute the Recirculated Final SEIR for the proposed project.
As specified in Section 15132 of the CEQA Guidelines,thisRecirculated Final SEIR consistsof:
a)The RecirculatedDraftSEIR or a revision of the draft.
b)Comments and recommendations received on the Recirculated Draft SEIR either
verbatim or in summary.
c)A list of persons, organizations, and public agencies commenting on the Recirculated
Draft SEIR.
d)The responses of the Lead Agency to significant environmental points raised in the
review and consultation process.
e)Any other information added by thelead agency.
1
CEQA Guidelines Section15004 states that before the approvalof any project subject to CEQA,
the lead agency must consider the final environmental document, which in thiscase, prior to
approval of the proposed Major Modificationthe City must consider theRecirculated Final SEIR.
1.2Use of the Recirculated FinalEIR and the CEQA
Process
The Recirculated Final SEIR allows the public an opportunity to review any revisions to the
Recirculated Draft SEIR, the response to comments, and other components of the Recirculated
Draft SEIR, prior to approval of the Major Modification. After completing the Recirculated Final
SEIR and before approving the project, the lead agency must make the following three
certifications, as required by Section 15090of the CEQA Guidelines:
The RecirculatedFinalSEIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA;
1
The word “approval” is defined by Section 15352 of the CEQA Guidelines to mean “the decision by a public
agency which commits the agency to a definite course of action in regard to a project intended to be carried out by
any person…” In addition, the CEQA Guidelines state that “\[w\]ith private projects, approval occurs upon the
earliest commitment to issue or the issuance by the public agency of a discretionary contract, grant, subsidy, loan,
or other form of financial assistance, lease, permit, license, certificate, or other entitlement for use of the project.”
1-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril2016
1.Introduction
The Recirculated Final SEIR was presented to the decision-making body of the lead
agency, and that the decision-making body reviewed and considered the information in
the Recirculated Final SEIR prior to approving the project; and
The Recirculated Final SEIR reflects the Lead Agency’s independent judgment and
analysis.
As required by Section 15091(a) of the CEQA Guidelines, no public agency shall approve or
carry out a project for which an EIR(including an SEIR)has been certified that identifies one or
more significantenvironmental effects of the project unless the public agency makes one or more
writtenfindings (Findings of Fact) for each of those significant effects, accompanied by a brief
explanation of the rationale for each finding supported by substantial evidence in the record.The
possible findings are:
(1)Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoidor substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final
EIR.
(2)Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public
agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such
other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency.
(3)Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including
provisionof employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the
mitigationmeasures or project alternatives identified in the final EIR.
These certifications and the Findings of Fact are included in a separate Findings document.
1.3Method of Organization
This Recirculated Final SEIR for the proposed Major Modificationcontains information in
response to concerns raised by written comments sent to the City of Temecula. The Recirculated
Final EIR is organized into the following chapters:
Chapter 1, Introduction, consists of a summary of the background of the proposed
project, information about the certification of the Recirculated Final SEIR, and a brief
discussion of the intended uses of the Recirculated Final SEIR. Chapter 1 also contains
the final Summary Table of Impacts and Mitigation Measures.
Chapter 2, Response to Comments,contains a matrix of agencies and individualsthat
submitted written comments on the Recirculated Draft SEIR. This matrix identifies the
issue areas addressed by those comments. Chapter 2also includes a copy of each written
comment letter, and a written response to each comment.
1.4Focus of Comments
Section 15200 of the CEQA Guidelinesestablishes the purpose of public review of a draft
environmental document, whichinclude:
1-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril2016
1. Introduction
(a)Sharing expertise,
(b)Disclosing agency analyses,
(c)Checking for accuracy,
(d)Detecting omissions,
(e)Discovering public concerns, and
(f)Soliciting counter proposals.
Sections 15204(a) and 15204(c) of the CEQA Guidelinesfurther state:
(a) In reviewing draft EIRs, persons andpublic agencies should focus on the sufficiency of
the document in identifying and analyzing the possible impacts on the environment and
ways in which the significant effects of the project might be avoided or mitigated.
Comments are most helpful when they suggest additional specific alternatives or
mitigation measures that would provide better ways to avoid or mitigate the significant
environmental effects. At the same time, reviewers should be aware that the adequacyof
an EIR is determined in terms of what is reasonably feasible, in light of factors suchas
the magnitude of the project at issue, the severity of its likely environmental impacts,and
the geographic scope of the project. CEQA does not require a lead agency toconduct
every test or perform all research, study, and experimentation recommendedor demanded
by commenters. When responding to comments, lead agencies need only respond to
significant environmental issues and do not need to provide all information requested by
reviewers, as long as a good faith effort at full disclosure is made in the EIR.
(c) Reviewers should explain the basis for their comments, and should submit data or
references offering facts, reasonable assumptions based on facts, or expert opinion
supported by facts in supportof the comments. Pursuant to Section 15064, an effect shall
not be considered significant in the absence of substantial evidence.
Section 15204(f) of the CEQA Guidelinesestablishes the rule that a responsible or trustee agency
may submit proposed mitigation measures, limited to the resources subject to the statutory
authority of that agency. These measures must include complete and detailed performance
objectives for themeasures or refer the lead agency to the appropriate guidelines or reference
materials.
1.5Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
A detailed discussion of existing environmental conditions, environmental impacts and
recommended mitigation measuresis included in Chapter 3, Environmental Setting, Impactsand
Mitigation Measures, of the Recirculated Draft SEIR. Project impacts, recommended mitigation
Table 1-1
measures, and level of significance after mitigation are summarized in .
1-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril2016
ESA / 1306526
Introduction
201
Significant and unavoidable
April
Level of Impact after
1.
Mitigation
include a detailed record of the type of reason for the trip, and date and time of
adjacent to the hospital site. The signs will notice riders of the helistop location
shall maintain a log of helicopter activity which shall cannot be restricted due to the aircraft's
Temecula Valley Hospital shall make contact information for registering noise
listop locations shall
will be responsible for the design, preparation, and installation of the sign, as
information and warnings to equestrian users. The Temecula Valley Hospital serves Temecula Valley Hospital. Pilots would be instructed in the use of the
Temecula Valley Hospital service contracts with air medical companies shall
sure that optimum arrival and
use the approved flight paths, unless safety precautions require a diversion
departure flight paths procedures are followed for each helicopter type that arrival and departure. If a diversion from prescribed flight paths occurs, the ital and the
Valley Hospital shall develop and
operations at the interim helistop, the Temecula Valley Hospital shall prepare and
Prior to issuance of a City permit allowing helicopter
Temecula Valley Hospital shall establish a community working group that
implement a Heliport Operations Plan which requires the following measures:
install signage at both ends of the portion of the equestrian trail that is
icopter noise
S
ON MEASURE
meets periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hosp
and its operation at the hospital. The sign will include hel
All helicopter operations at the interim and permanent he
IMPACTS AND MITIGATI
in the log.
approved approach and departure flight paths.
.
community to discuss helicopter noise issues.
require that all pilots be routinely trained to en
Section 21662.4
Prior to helicopter operations, Temecula
reason for diversion shall be recorded
Implementation of the proposed project would not result in significant aesthetics impacts.
ircraft flights for medical purposes
.
project would not result in significant hazards impacts
1
complaints publicly available.
-
1
from any of the flight paths.
PUC
TABLE
Temecula Valley Hospital
5
well as all related costs.
-
1
1:
California
NTAL
-
Mitigation Measure NOI
Mitigation Measure
SUMMARY OF ENVIRONME
noise level per
A
Ambient Noise Levels in the Project Vicinity and
Exposure of Persons to Excessive Noise Levels
Substantial Temporary or Periodic Increase in
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
Implementation of the proposed
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project
Environmental Impact
Final
Aesthetics
Hazards
Recirculated
Noise
CHAPTER 2
Response to Comments
As stated in CEQA Guidelines, Sections 15132 and 15362, the Recirculated Final SEIR must
contain information summarizing the comments received on the Recirculated Draft SEIR, either
verbatim or in summary; a list of persons commenting; and the response of the lead agency to the
comments received. Fivecomment letters were received by the City in response to the
Recirculated Draft SEIR. This chapter provides copies of each letter received and the responses to
Table 2-1
these comments. A summary of the comments is provided below in .
TABLE 2-1
LIST OF COMMENTS RECEIVED
Letter
AlphaAgency/CommenterDate of LetterEnvironmental Issues
SCHState ClearinghouseFebruary 6, 2016
None
ALUCRiverside County March 4, 2016
Airport Land Use Plan Compatibility
Airport Land Use Commission
ARincon Band of Luiseño IndiansFebruary 9, 2016
Cultural Resources
BSoboba Band of Luiseño IndiansMarch 22, 2016
Cultural Resources
CJohnson & Sedlack March 23, 2016
Noise and Alternatives
Attorneys at Law
The responses to comments to the lettersreceived are provided below. These responses do not
alter the proposed Major Modification, change the Recirculated Draft SEIR’s significance
conclusions, or result in a conclusion such that significantly more severe environmental impacts
would result. Instead, the information presented in the responses to comments “merely clarifies or
amplifies or makes insignificant modifications” in the Recirculated Draft SEIR, as is permitted by
CEQA GuidelinesSection 15088.5(b).
Regarding recirculation of the Recirculated Draft SEIR, CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5,
requires the lead agency to recirculate an EIR only when significant new information is added to the
EIR after public notice is given of the availability of the Draft EIR for public review. New
information added to an EIR is not significant unless the EIR has changed in a way that deprives the
public of a meaningful opportunity to comment upon a substantial adverse, environmental effect of
the project or a feasible way to mitigate or avoid such an effect that the project’s proponent’s have
declined to implement (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15088.5). In summary, significant new
information consists of: (1)disclosure of a new significant impact; (2) disclosure of a substantial
increase in the severity of an environmental impact; (3) disclosure of a feasible project alternative or
2-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
mitigation measure considerably different from the others previously analyzed that would clearly
lessen environmental impacts of the project but the project proponent declines to adopt it; and/or (4)
the Draft EIR was sofundamentally and basically inadequate and conclusory in nature that
meaningful public review and comment were precluded (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15088.5).
Recirculation is not required where, as stated above, the new information provided in response to
the comments received to the Recirculated Draft SEIRmerely clarifies or amplifies or makes
insignificant modifications in an adequate SEIR (CEQAGuidelines, Section 15088.5).
2-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
Response to Letter SCH:
State Clearinghouse
This is a formthat comes from the State Clearinghouse in response to environmental documents
that have been submitted to the agency for distribution.
SCH-1This form provides the dates of public review and comment and lists the stateagencies
that reviewed the environmental document. In addition, the formacknowledges
compliance with the State Clearinghouse review requirements for draft environmental
documents pursuant to CEQA. No further response is necessary.
2-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
Letter: ALUC
From: Guerin, John \[mailto:JGUERIN@rctlma.org\]
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 4:24 PM
To: Stuart Fisk
Cc: Cooper, Ed; Santos, Barbara
Subject: Notice of Completion of a Recirculated Draft Supplemental EIR
ThankyouforprovidingtheRiversideCountyAirportLandUseCommission(ALUC)withacopyofthe
NoticeofCompletionofaRecirculatedDraftSupplementalEIRandaCDofthedocumentrelatingto
relocationofapreviouslyapprovedhospitalheliport.TheproposedͻƒğƆƚƩƒƚķźŅźĭğƷźƚƓͼevaluated
includesbothͻğƓinterimgroundlevelloĭğƷźƚƓͼandaͻƦĻƩƒğƓĻƓƷlocation\[thatwouldbe\]constructed
ontheroofofthefuturehospitalƷƚǞĻƩ͵ͼ
TheinterimheliportanalyzedinthedocumentappearstobeatthesiteevaluatedbyALUCinearly
2014.OnFebruary13,2014,ALUCfoundCityofTemeculaCaseNo.PA130141,aproposaltoestablish
aninterimheliportconsistingofa48footdiameterTouchdownandLiftoffAreaonagroundmounted
concretelandingpadwithperimeterlightingandpaintedmarkingswithinan87footdiameterfinal
approachandtakeoffarea(plusa16foottallgroundmountedilluminatedwindcone)onthegrounds
ofTemeculaValleyHospital,consistentwiththeCountywidePoliciesofthe2004RiversideCounty
AirportLandUseCompatibilityPlan,subjecttofiveconditions(seeattachedcomputercopyofletter).
However,thefindingofconsistencyonlyappliedtotheinterimhelistop,asevaluatedintheproject
noisestudy.SubsequentALUCreviewwillberequiredforthepermanenthelistop.Itwasfeltthat
knownactivitylevelsattheinterimhelistopwillallowforamorepreciseprojectionofactivitylevels
1
(andhencenoise)atthepermanenthelistop.NosingleeventnoiseanalysiswasprovidedtotheALUC
fortheinterimhelistop,butsuchanalysisshouldbeconductedinconjunctionwithreviewofthe
permanenthelistop.
From: Stuart Fisk \[mailto:Stuart.Fisk@cityoftemecula.org\]
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 4:54 PM
To: Guerin, John
Cc: Cooper, Ed; Santos, Barbara
Subject: RE: Notice of Completion of a Recirculated Draft Supplemental EIR
Thank you for your comments John. You are correct that the interim heliport analyzed in the
revised SEIR is the same as what the ALUC reviewed in early 2014. The SEIR was revised to
add to the noise analysis and alternatives analysis, and to revise the project description and
mitigation measures to address comments received by a lawyer hired by the Los Ranchito
HOA. The project itself has not changed.
Stuart Fisk
Senior Planner
City of Temecula
(951) 506-5159
stuart.fisk@cityoftemecula.org
Letter: ALUC
From: Guerin, John
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 4:24 PM
To: 'Stuart Fisk'
Cc: Cooper, Ed; Santos, Barbara
Subject: RE: Notice of Completion of a Recirculated Draft Supplemental EIR - Interim vis-a-vis
Permanent Helistop
TheSEIRidentifiesincreasesinaveragenoiselevelsatsensitivereceptorsaslessthansignificant,but
periodicincreasesduetosingleeventnoiselevelsassignificant.Theseconclusionsfollowlogicallyfrom
theevidencepresented.
Asnotedbelow,theconsistencydeterminationissuedbyALUCin2014wasfortheinterimhelistop.The
permanenthelistopshouldbereviewedbyALUCpriortothe/źƷǤƭdiscretionaryapprovalofthat
facility.BothsingleeventandCNELnoiselevelsareprovidedinthenoiseanalysisofthisrevisedSEIR,
butthesingleeventnoiseinformationwasnotavailableatthetimeALUCmadeitsdecisionregarding
1
theinterimhelistop.
From: Guerin, John \[mailto:JGUERIN@rctlma.org\]
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 11:41 AM
To: Stuart Fisk; Jeff Wright (jeffwright@heliplanners.com)
Cc: Cooper, Ed; Santos, Barbara
Subject: RE: Notice of Completion of a Recirculated Draft Supplemental EIR - Interim vis-a-vis
Permanent Helistop
SinceCALTRANSAeronauticswouldalsoneedtoissueapermitforthepermanenthelistop,wedonot
objecttotheCitymovingforwardwiththeenvironmentaldocument,providedthattheMajor
ModificationapprovalissubjecttotheconditionsALUCalreadyappliedtotheinterimhelistop,plusan
additionalconditionrequiringALUCreviewofthepermanenthelistoppriortoitsapprovalbyCALTRANS
Aeronauticsanditsinstallation,andprovidingfor!\[ /ƭconditionsonthatpermanenthelistoptobe
incorporatedintoanysubsequentpermitsthattheCitymayissuetoimplementtheactionsoftheOffice
ofStatewideHealthPlanningandDevelopment.
Letter: ALUC
AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION
RIVERSIDE COUNTY
March 4, 2014
CHAIR
Simon Housman
Rancho Mirage
Mr. Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
City of Temecula Planning Department
VICE CHAIRMAN
41000 Main Street
Rod Ballance
Riverside
Temecula, CA 92590
COMMISSIONERS
RE: AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION (ALUC) DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
File No.: ZAP1054FV13
Arthur Butler
Riverside Related File No.: PA 13-0141 (Modified Conditional Use Permit)
APN: 959-080-026
John Lyon
Riverside
Dear Mr. Fisk:
Glen Holmes
Hemet
On February 13, 2014, the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) found City
of Temecula Case No. PA 13-0141 (Modified Conditional Use Permit), a proposal to establish a
Greg Pettis
Cathedral City
temporary (interim) heliport (specifically, a hospital helistop), consisting of a 48-foot diameter
(1,808 square foot) Touchdown and Liftoff (TLOF) Area on a ground mounted concrete landing
Richard Stewart
Moreno Valley
pad with perimeter lighting and painted markings, within an 87-foot diameter final approach and
takeoff area, plus a 16-foot tall ground mounted illuminated wind cone, on the grounds of
Temecula Valley Hospital, located northerly of Temecula Parkway and south of De Portola
STAFF
CONSISTENT
Road, with the Countywide Policies of the 2004 Riverside County Airport Land
Director
Use Compatibility Plan, subject to the following conditions:
Ed Cooper
John Guerin
Russell Brady
CONDITIONS:
Barbara Santos
County Administrative Center
4080 Lemon St., .
14 Floor
th
1. No operations (takeoffs or landings) shall be conducted until such time as the State of
Riverside, CA 92501
California Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics has issued a Site
(951) 955-5132
Approval Permit and subsequent Heliport Permit pursuant to Sections 3525 through
3560 of Title 21 of the California Code of Regulations.
www.rcaluc.org
2. The heliport shall be designed and constructed in accordance with FAA Advisory
Heliport Design.
Circular 150/5390-2B,
3. Establishment and operations shall comply with the recommendations and requirements
of the Federal Aviation Administration letter dated July 3, 2013, a copy of which is
attached hereto.
4. Helicopter idle time shall be minimized as much as possible.
5.The Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) requests that Temecula
Valley Hospital consider returning to ALUC to seek advisory comments regarding
mitigation of noise impacts on surrounding properties in the event that the average
number of monthly operations exceeds sixteen (16) within any given quarterly period.
Letter: ALUC
RIVERSIDE COUNTY AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION March 4, 2014
This finding of consistency applies only to the interim helistop as evaluated in the
attached noise study. The permanent helistop will require subsequent review by the
Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission. It is recommended that single-event
noise analysis be conducted in conjunction with ALUC review of the permanent helistop,
by which time known activity levels at the interim helistop will allow for a more precise
projection of noise levels.
If you have any questions, please contact Russell Brady, ALUC Contract Planner, at (951) 955-
0549, or John Guerin, ALUC Principal Planner, at (951) 955-0982.
Sincerely,
RIVERSIDE COUNTY AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION
______________________________________
Edward C. Cooper, Director
RB:bks
cc: Temecula Valley Hospital (applicant) (site address)
Temecula Valley Hospital, Inc., c/o George Brunner, King of Prussia (tax roll address)
Jeff Wright (representative)
DPR/Turner, a Joint Venture (payee)
Amy C. Towell (nearby landowner)
ALUC Staff
\\\\Sfo-file01\\projects\\LAX\\13xxxx\\D130652.00 - Temecula Heliport Supplemental EIR\\03 Working Documents\\Final
Recirculated SEIR\\Comments Received\\Bracketed\\ALUC Attachment.doc
2
2. Response to Comments
Response to Letter ALUC:
Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission
This email communicationbetweenthe Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission
(ALUC) andthe Citydiscusses compatibility with the 2004 Riverside County Airport Land Use
Compatibility Plan, and includes the ALUC’s2014 Finding of Consistency for the proposed
interim helistop as an attachment.
ALUC-1Comment:
This commentstates that On February 13, 2014 the ALUC found the
proposed interim helistop compatible with the Countywide Policies of the 2004
Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, subject to severalconditions.
As provided on the attachmentto the email communicationthe conditions include:
Requirements for Caltrans permits pursuant to Sections 3525 through 3560
of Title 21 of the California Code of Regulations
Design and construction of the helistopin accordance with FAA Advisory
Circular 150/5390-2B, Heliport Design
Operation of the helistop pursuant to FAA recommendations and
requirements
Minimization of helicopter idling time
The commentalsostates that the Recirculated Draft SEIR identifies increases in
average noise levels at sensitive receptors as less than significant, but periodic
increases due to single-event noise levels as significant, and that these conclusions
follow logically from the evidence presented.
In addition, thecomment states that the2014 finding of consistency only applied to
the interim helistop, and that thepermanent helistop will require subsequent review
by the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission.
Response:
The project as proposed is consistent with the conditionslisted in the
email attachment.As described in Section 2.0, Project Description of the
Recirculated Draft SEIR, the project is proposed, in part, to meet current Riverside
County ALUC,FAA,andCaltrans Aeronautics criteria and is designed in
compliance with all relevant regulations, such as flight paths, obstruction clearance,
noise requirements, and wind directions.In addition, as shown on Figure 2-5,
Heliport Design Characteristics in the Recirculated Draft EIR,the designs of the
proposed helistops arebe in accordance with all FAA recommendations related to
heliport designs, and would be operated in accordance with all FAA, Caltrans
Aeronautics, and Riverside County ALUC safety criteria.
Furthermore, the operation discussion inSection 2.0, Project Description of the
Recirculated Draft SEIR,describes that helicopter engines would run for a limited
time during landing and takeoff; and that helicopters would be shut off while parked
2-10
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
at the helistop.Thus, helicopter idling time would be minimized.Overall, the
proposed project is consistent with the conditions listed in this comment.
The City has coordinated with theRiverside County ALUC in regards to review of
the permanent helistopand has conditioned the permanent helistopto return to the
ALUC to seek acompatibility determination with the Countywide Policies of the
2004 Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, such as was found for
the interim helistopon February 13, 2014. The City’s condition requires the
compatibility determination prior to the permanent helistop’sapproval by Caltrans
Aeronautics and prior to commencement of its installation.
2-11
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
Letter: A
1
2. Response to Comments
Response to Letter A:
Rincon Band of LuiseÐo Indians
This letter comes from the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indiansand discusses the potential of the
tribe to have cultural resources within the project site.
A-1Comment:
This comment states that the project location is within the territory of the
Luiseño peoplebut is not within Rincon's historic boundaries, and thus the commenter
defers to the Pechanga or Soboba Band of Luiseño Indianswho are closer to the project
area.
Response:
The comment does not discuss the environmental issues or analysiswithin the
Recirculated Draft SEIR; thus, no further response is necessary.
2-13
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
Letter: B
March 22, 2016
Attn: Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
City of Temecula
Community Development, Planning Division
41000 Main Street
Temecula, CA 92590
RE: Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Major Modification – 31700 Temecula Parkway
The Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians appreciates your observance of Tribal Cultural Resources
and their preservation in your project. The information provided to us on said project(s) has been
assessed through our Cultural Resource Department, where it was concluded that although it is
outside the existing reservation, the project area does fall within the bounds of our Tribal
Traditional Use Areas. At this time the Soboba Band does not have any specific concerns
regarding known cultural resources in the specified areas that the project encompasses, but does
1
request that the appropriate consultation continue to take place between concerned tribes, project
proponents, and local agencies.
Also, working in and around traditional use areas intensifies the possibility of encountering
cultural resources during any future construction/excavation phases that may take place. For this
reason the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians requests that approved Native American Monitor(s)
be present during any future ground disturbing proceedings, including surveys and archaeological
testing, associated with this project. The Soboba Band wishes to defer to the Pechanga Band of
Luiseño Indians, who are in closer proximity to the project. Please feel free to contact me with
any additional questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Joseph Ontiveros
Cultural Resource Director
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
P.O. Box 487
San Jacinto, CA 92581
Phone (951) 654-5544 ext. 4137
Cell (951) 663-5279
jontiveros@soboba-nsn.gov
Confidentiality: The entirety of the contents of this letter shall remain confidential between
Soboba and the City of Temecula. No part of the contents of this letter may be shared, copied, or
utilized in any way with any other individual, entity, municipality, or tribe, whatsoever, without
the expressed written permission of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians.
2. Response to Comments
Response to Letter B:
Soboba Band of LuiseÐo Indians
This letter comes from the SobobaBand of Luiseño Indians and discusses the potential of the
tribe to have cultural resources within the project site..
B-1Comment:
This comment states that although it is outside the existing reservation, the
project area does fall within the bounds of the Soboba Tribal Traditional Use Areas. At
this time the Soboba Band does not have any specific concerns regarding known cultural
resources in the specified areas that the project encompasses, but does request that
approved Native American Monitor(s) be present during any future ground disturbing
proceedings, including surveys and archaeological testing, associated with this project,
and that theydeferto the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, who are in closer proximity
to the projectsite.
Response:
The project site has been under construction for numerous years; since
approval of the hospital project by the City in 2008. The City has ongoing
communication with the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indiansregarding projects within the
City, and will continue the appropriate consultation with thePechangatribe, as they are
closestto the project site.
2-15
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
Letter: C
Johnson Sedlack
ATTORNEYSLAW
at
Raymond W. Johnson, Esq., AICP 26785 Camino Seco, Temecula, CA 92590 : Ray@SoCalCEQA.com
Carl T. Sedlack, Esq., Retired
Abigail A. Smith, Esq. Abby@SoCalCEQA.com
Kimberly Foy, Esq. Kim@SoCalCEQA.com
Kendall Holbrook, Esq. Kendall@SoCalCEQA.com
Telephone: (951) 506-9925
Facsimile: (951) 506-9725
March 23, 2016
Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
City of Temecula, Planning Department
41000 Main Street
Temecula, CA 92590
stuart.fisk@cityoftemecula.org
VIAU.S.MAIL and E-MAIL
Re:Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Recirculated Draft Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report; Comment Period ending March 23, 2016
To the City of Temecula:
, I submit
this letter regarding the proposed Temecula Valley Helistop Project and associated
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (RDSEIR).
The operation of the helistop at the interim location will result in significant noise
impacts to the immediately adjacent Los Ranchitos community as well as the equestrian
trail. Los Ranchitos urges the City to consider the adoption of an alternative to the project
which moves the interim helistop location farther away from the Los Ranchitos
community and nearer to Highway 79. Because the interim location will be used for years
1
to come, Los Ranchitos is deeply concerned that residents will be subjected to loud
helicopter noise on a long-term basis.
Regarding the RDSEIR, I have the following comments:
Project Description
While the RDSEIR provides some specificity as to the anticipated timing of the
permanent helistop location, the document still provides little assurance that impacts
RDSEIR, p. 2-2
Letter: C
March 23, 2016
Page 2
consistent with the 2011 Major Modification approval (PA10-0194 Condition No. 27,
requiring applicant to commence construction of the future hospital tower (bed tower 2)
foundation contemplated in Phase IV no later than February 8, 2019. Once foundation
construction commences in 2019, it could take up to approximately 3 years to construct
and open the hospital tower and construct, license and open the permanent rooftop
ssuming the interim location begins operation in year 2016,
noise impacts will be significant at that location for at least six years until the permanent
1
location is operational. Moreover, there is no guarantee that the second hospital
tower/permanent location will be built, or that it will be built according to schedule. Also,
the second hospital tower/permanent helistop location will require future review and/or
approvals by relevant agencies, which could result in revisions to current plans. We note,
for instance, that the future cancer center in Phase V is in the direct flight path of the
permanent helistop location (Figure 2-4).
In sum, the RDSEIR leads the reader to believe that noise impacts at the interim
location are of ature; this is inaccurate when there is no assurance that the
permanent location will become a reality in the near future.
Project Alternatives
The RDSEIR supplements the Draft SEIR analysis by adding three (3)
alternatives: a second No-Project/Existing Condition Alternative; a Future Tower
Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative; and an Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop
Site Alternative. Despite the expanded analysis, the RDSEIR indicates that each
alternative is inferior or more difficult to implement than the proposed project. The
RDSEIR also identifies the newly evaluated Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site
Alternative as the Environmentally Superior Alternative. As with other alternatives, the
RDSEIR indicates that the ESA is inferior to the proposed project.
CEQA provides that the lead agency may not approve a project with significant
2
impacts if feasible alternatives exist that substantially lessen significant project impacts.
Public Resources Code § 21002. The feasibility of alternatives must be evaluated within
the context of the proposed project. Uphold Our Heritage v. Town of Woodside (2007)
th
147 Cal.App.4 587, 598. We submit there are feasible alternatives which would lessen
significant operational noise impacts as to the interim location, particularly to the Los
Ranchitos community as well as the equestrian trail.
For instance, the Alternative Interim Site alternative, which moves the interim
helistop location closer to Highway 79 and makes the flight path more continuous with
Highway 79, would reduce operational noise impacts at receptor sites 2, 3, 6A, 6B and 8.
In particular, noise impacts as to the three equestrian trail locations would be
Letter: C
March 23, 2016
Page 3
substantially less than under the Interim Location. Noise impacts at Site 2a home
within the Los Ranchitos communitywould also be substantially less. See RDSEIR pp.
2
4-34 35. This alternative is feasible. For instance, any of the true project alternatives
would require further review and approval by relevant agencies and even the proposed
project requires additional review/approval.
Also for instance, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop alternative
reduces operational noise impacts as to many receptor locations. The RDSEIR at p. 4-42
claims that the Future Tower Location would result in short-term maximum noise level at
receptors of 1.4 dB Lmax greater in prevailing wind conditions. This conclusion is
inaccurate or at least misleading. Table 4-7 indicates that all receptor locations would
experience an improvemen t in noise conditions under the Future Tower Location
alternative with the exception of Sites 3 and 7. At Sites 2 and 6C, for instance, there are
3
significant improvements. Id. The discussion on p. 4-43 even appears to reference the
wrong alternative where it references the
Alternative Overall, the
discussion of the comparison of the Future Tower Location to the proposed project gives
the reader a false impression of the relative impacts. Because the Future Tower Location
substantially reduces significant noise impacts over the Interim Location as to the
majority of receiver locations, it is environmentally superior to the proposed project.
Moreover, this alternative has not been shown to infeasible within the meaning of CEQA.
Thank you for considering these comments as you move forward with preparation
of the Final EIR and as you consider the scope and direction of the proposed project.
Sincerely,
Raymond Johnson, Esq., AICP, LEED Green Associate
JOHNSON & SEDLACK
2. Response to Comments
Response to Letter C:
Johnson & Sedlack Attorneys at Law
This letter expresses concern about the long-term noise impacts on the Los Ranchitos community
and suggests an alternative site farther away from theLos Ranchitos communityand closer to
Highway 79.
C-1Comment:
This comment states that the Recirculated Draft SEIR provides little
assurance that impacts associated with the “interim” locationwill, in fact, be “temporary”
and that there is no guarantee that the second hospital tower/permanent location will be
built, or that it will be built according to schedule. The comment also states that the
second hospital tower/permanent helistop location will require future review and/or
approvals by relevant agencies, which could result in revisions to current plans, such as
related to the future cancer center in Phase V.
In sum, the comment states that the Recirculated Draft SEIR leads the reader to believe
that noise impacts at the interim location are of a “short-term” nature; the comment
further asserts that this is inaccurate when there is no assurance that the permanent
location will become a reality in the near future.
Response:
As described in Section 2.0, Project Description, on page 2-2of the
Recirculated Draft SEIR, operation of the permanent helistop is anticipated to occur in
2022, consistent with the 2011 Major Modification approval (PA10-0194), Condition
No.27, requiring the applicant to commence construction of the future hospital tower
(hospital bed tower 2) foundation contemplated in Phase IV no later than February 8,
2019. Once foundation construction commences in 2019, it could take up to
approximately 3 years to construct and open the hospital tower and construct, license, and
open the permanent rooftop helistop.Thus, the Recirculated Draft SEIR provides a clear
description of the schedule for use of both the interim and permanent helistops.
In addition, as described above in Response to Comment ALUC-1to the Riverside
County ALUC communication,the project is designed in compliance with all Riverside
County ALUC, FAA, and Caltrans Aeronautics relevant criteria, such as flight paths,
obstruction clearance, noise requirements, and wind directions.In regards to the future
cancer center in Phase V, thebuilding is proposed to be a one-story building (as
described in the Recirculated Draft SEIRon page 2-1) and would not result in any
airspace obstruction-clearance constraintsfor the permanentheliport that would be on top
of the five-story tower.
The City has coordinated with the Riverside County ALUC in regards to review the
permanent helistop to provide a compatibility determination with the Countywide
Policies of the 2004 RiversideCounty Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, which will
be done prior to the permanent helistop’s approval by Caltrans Aeronauticsand prior to
2-19
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
commencement of its installation. Thus, the City does not anticipate the process to delay
the project schedule described above.
Furthermore, and also as described in Section 2.0, Project Description, on page 2-2 of the
Recirculated Draft SEIR, while the interim helistop will serve as a temporary location
until the future hospital tower is constructed in Phase IV(in 2022),theRecirculated Draft
SEIR does not limit its analysis to temporary short-term effects but instead fully
evaluates the interim helistop’s potential impacts including any future long-term effects
in the event that development of the future hospital tower occurs later than anticipated.
Therefore, the Recirculated Draft SEIRdescribes both the anticipated short-term and
unanticipated potential long-term impacts of theinterim helistop.
C-2Comment:
This comment summarizes the alternatives analysis of the Recirculated Draft
SEIR and statesthat per CEQA the lead agency may not approve a project with
significant impacts if feasible alternatives exist that substantially lessen significant
project impacts.In addition, the comment states that there are feasible alternatives which
would lessen significant operational noise impacts relatedthe interim helistop location to
the Los Ranchitos community andequestrian trail.The comment asserts thatthe
Alternative Interim Site alternative, which moves the interim helistop location closer to
Highway 79 and makes the flight path more continuous with Highway 79, would
substantially reduce operational noise at receptors within the Los Ranchitos community
and the equestrian trail.
Response:
It is agreed that noise related impacts under the Alternative Interim Helistop
Site Alternative would be less thanby the proposed project. As described in Section 4.0,
Alternatives, on page 4-35,the maximum noise from the Alternative Interim Helistop
Site Alternative would be 12.5 dB Lmax less noise than what would occur by the
proposed interim helistop in prevailing wind conditions,and 21.1 dB Lmax less in
SantaAna wind conditions. Further, the helicopter overflight noise from the Alternative
Interim Helistop Site Alternative would exceed the exteriorshort-term noise standard at
2fewer receptor locations in Santa Ana wind conditions.Thus, the Alternative Interim
Helistop Site Alternative would result in reduced single-event noise impacts compared to
the proposed project.
However,the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would continue to result in
significant unavoidablenoiseimpactsbecause helicopter noise from the Alternative
Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be substantially louder than both the City’s
allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levels and would directly impact
residential areas.This alternative would exceed the exteriorshort-term noise standard at
9of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing winds and at 8 of the 10 receptor sites in Santa
Ana wind conditions. Receptor Sites 2, 3, 6A, 6B, and 8, which are located furthest away
from the alternative interim helistop east/west flight path, would generally experience
lower maximum short-term noise levels than from the proposed interim helistop.
Conversely, Sites 1 and 5, which are in close proximity to the alternative’s east/west
2-20
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
flight path, would generally experience greater maximum short-term noise levels under
this alternative during prevailing and Santa Ana winds than as compared to the proposed
interim helistop location.
Additionally,this alternative would result in greater aesthetics and hazards impacts than
the proposed interim helistop. As described on page 4-29, theAlternative Interim
Helistop Site Alternativewould be required to install red obstruction lights along
Temecula Parkway and would be surrounded by a 5-foot-tall security fencethat would be
visible to travelers along Temecula Parkway. Therefore, the Alternative Interim Helistop
Site Alternative wouldhavegreater aesthetic impacts than the proposed project’sless-
than-significantimpacts.
In regards to hazards, it is described on page 4-30,the flight path required for this site
(because of the prevailing winds at the project site) is an east-west flight path that would
run parallel to Temecula Parkway. One existing power pole would penetrate the southern
2:1 transitional surface of the interim alternative site’s flight path and the planned MOB 2
would penetrate the northern transitional surface.Accordingly, the alternative interim
site’s flight path along Temecula Parkway would cause an additional hazard related to
one power pole located directly south of the site, and additional red obstruction lighting
along Temecula Parkway would be required along with a variance for a transitional
surface penetration from Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. If SCE does not install
obstruction lights on its existing poles, the site would require additional poles equipped
with obstruction lights to be erected on hospital property between the SCE poles and the
helistop. This introduces new, closer airspace obstructions. Further, it isthe policy of the
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics to only grant variances for one side of a flight path (see
Appendix A of the Recirculated DSEIR). Therefore, Caltrans Aeronautics would not
grant a variance for power lines that would penetrate the southern transitional surface and
a second variance for MOB 2 that would penetrate the northern transitional surface.As a
result, the planned MOB 2building, along with the already developed underground
utilities, would need to be relocated or reconfigured so that the MOB 2 building would
not penetrate the transitional surface, and that only one transitional surface would be
penetrated. Overall, the penetration of a transitional surface and the need for variances on
both sides of the flight pathfor implementation of the Alternative Interim Helistop Site
Alternative that is not needed for the proposed project indicates that potential hazards
impacts related to the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative are greater than that
of the proposed interim helistopsite.
In addition, the flight path of the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be
adjacent to pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle travelers on the roadway and would be large-
scale forefront activity; and increased risk of driver and bicyclist distraction along
Temecula Parkway during helicopter operations could increase traffic accident potential,
or could cause confusion/distraction to patients and visitors entering the facility by
personal vehicle.The rotorwash (windsgenerated from the helicopter) could also impact
pedestrian and bicyclist safety on sidewalks along Temecula Parkway.
2-21
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
In comparison, the flight path of the proposed interim helistop would travel from behind
the existing and planned hospital facilities, and would cross (not travel along) Temecula
Parkway at a location farther away from the hospital that would provide the distance and
trajectory to be far above the roadway to not cause the distraction that could be caused by
the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative. The proposed flight path would not
cross vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrianpaths (such as would be done by the alternative
interim helistop site), and would not result in the potential for hazardsthat could occur
from the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative flight path. Overall, the Alternative
Interim Helistop Site Alternativewouldresult in greater potentially significant impacts
related to hazards than the less-than-significant impacts that would occur from the
proposed interim helistop site.Additionally, this interim alternative would be required to
undergo full new permitting processes with Federal Aviation Administration, Riverside
County Airport Land Use Commission and Caltrans Aeronautics, which the proposed
interim helistop has already completed. This would further delay the introduction of this
facility at the hospital for Temecula residents.
Althoughnoise impactsto the Los Ranchitos community and the equestrian trail under
the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be less than by the proposed
project, the alternativedoes not substantially lessen oravoid significantnoiseimpacts.
Thus, pursuant to CEQA Section 15126.6 and Public Resources Code Section 21002, the
Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould not be environmentally or feasibly
superiorthan the proposed project because the significant and unavoidable impacts
related to noise would remain and it would generate greaterimpacts to aesthetics and
greater and potentially significant hazard impactsthanwould not occur by the proposed
project.
C-3Comment:
This comment states that Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop
Alternative reduces operational noise impacts at many receptor locations. The comment
states that theconclusion that the Future Tower Location would result in short-term
maximum noise level at receptors of 1.4 dB Lmax greater in prevailing wind conditions
is inaccurate or at least misleading.
The comment also states that Table 4-7 indicates that receptor locations Sites 2 and 6C
would experience significant improvementsin noise conditions under the Future Tower
Location Alternative and thatSites 3 and 7would not. Thecomment also states that the
discussion on p. 4-43 appears to reference the wrong alternative where it references the
“Alternative Interim Helistop flight path.” Should it not be the “Future Tower Location
Alternative” flight path?
The comment further states that the comparison of the Future Tower Location to the
proposed project gives the reader a false impression of the relative impacts. The comment
asserts that the Future Tower Location substantially reduces significant noise impacts
over the interim helistop location to the majorityof receiver locations, and further asserts
2-22
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
that it is environmentally superior to the proposed projectandhas not been shown to
infeasible within the meaning of CEQA.
Response:
As described in Section 4.0, Alternatives, on page 4-42 and in Table 4-7, the
noise from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result
in a maximum noise level of 94.8 dB Lmax in prevailing wind conditions and 93.7 dB
Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditions.
In comparison, the noise from the interim helistoplocation would be 93.4 dB Lmax, in
prevailing wind conditions and 100.8 dB Lmax in Santa Ana conditions. Therefore, the
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in a maximum
noise level thatis1.4 dB Lmax greater in prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of
flights), and 7.1 dB Lmax less in Santa Ana conditions than the proposed interim
helistop.This information is not inaccurate or misleading, and is provided in both the text
and data tables within the Recirculated Draft SEIR.
A comparison of Table 4-7 (single-event noise levels from the Future Tower Location as
Interim Helistop Site Alternative) and Table 3.3-9 (single-event noise levels from the
interim helistop) shows that Receptor Sites 1, 2, 6A, 6B, 6C(the three sites along the
equestrian trail), and 9, would experience lower maximum noise levels from the Future
Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative than by the proposed interim
helistop location;however, Sites 3, 5 and 7would experience greater maximum noise
levels by the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative in both
prevailing and Santa Ana winds, compared to the proposed interim helistop location.In
addition, Sites 3, 5 and 7are located adjacent to the densely populated Madera Vista
Apartments and Country Glen Communityand would impact more receivers than the
Sites at the non-residential equestrian trail and lower densityresidentialuses within the
Los Ranchitos Community.Moreover, compared to the proposed project, the helicopter
overflight noise from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative
would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at the same number of receptor
locations during prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of flights) and at one less
receptor location in Santa Ana conditions.
Overall, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would continue
to result in a significant unavoidableimpact because helicopter noise from the alternative
would be substantially louder than both the City’s allowable noise and the existing
ambient noise levelsat sensitive receptors.Thus, noise impacts from the Future Tower
Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould be similar to the interim location’s
significant and unavoidable noise impact.
Furthermore, as described in Section 4.0, Alternatives,the Future Tower Location as
Interim Helistop Site Alternativelocation at the future tower sitecould only be used until
commencement of development of the Future Tower in Phase IV.To allow for
construction of the future hospital tower, the helistop would need to be relocated to the
proposed interim helistop site. After completion of the future hospital tower, the
2-23
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
permanent helistop (on the roof of the new tower) would be utilized. Therefore, under
this alternative the Los Ranchitos communityand equestrian trail would be subject to
noise from two different interim helistop locations, both of which would result in
significant and unavoidable noise impacts.Because the significant and unavoidable noise
impacts would remain, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative
was determined to not be environmentally superior than the proposed project.
As all of this detail is provided withinthe Recirculated Draft SEIR,itdoes not provide
the reader a false impression of the relative impacts, but provides a detailed description in
text, data tables, and graphics showing flight paths and impact locationsof the significant
and unavoidable noise impacts that would occur from both the proposed project and the
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative.
There is however a typographical error in the first sentence, of the third paragraph on
page4-43, which currently states “the Alternative Interim Helistop flight path.”The text
should have stated: this alternative interim helistop flight path”.This correction will be
provided as an Errata that will be included in theRecirculated Final SEIR.
In addition, to the significant and unavoidable noise impacts that would result from the
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative, this alternative wouldresult
in more red obstruction lighting and a more visible helistop that would be located in front
of the existing hospital building,surrounded by security fencing,and visible from
Temecula Parkway; thus,as described on pages 4-37 and 4-38 of theRecirculated Draft
SEIR,this alternative would result in greater aesthetic impacts than the proposed
project’s less-than-significant impacts.
In regards to hazards,the Recirculated Draft SEIR describes on pages 4-38 and 4-39 that
theFuture Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternativeflight path would have
obstruction clearance conflicts with the existing trees in the drainage that is adjacent to
the hospital site, the planned MOB 1 and MOB 2 buildings,and the “future building site”
located on the south east corner of the project site. Penetrations of the transitional surface
in more than one area would not be allowed by Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and
would not receive a permit to operate the helistop.These types ofobstruction clearance
conflictswould not occur by the proposed project.
Additionally,the flight path that would be used by the Future Tower Location as Interim
Helistop Site Alternative would result in helicopters at lower altitudes crossingTemecula
Parkway, the parking lot, and the main hospital access road to land or take off from this
interimhelistop at ground level at the planned future hospital tower location. This
helicopter activity would be a low-altitude event that would cross over pedestrians,
bicycles and vehicle travelers in the hospital driveway, parking lot, and Temecula
Parkway, and could cause distractions to drivers in the driveway, parking lot, and along
the roadway and lead to vehicle accidents, or could cause confusion/distraction to
patients and visitors entering the facility by personal vehicle. In addition, helicopter
rotorwash from this flight pathcould impact pedestrian and bicyclist safety along the
2-24
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
2. Response to Comments
sidewalk that fronts hospital. As described above in Response to Comment C-2, the
proposed interim helistop site would not result in such hazard related impacts. Thus, the
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in greater
impacts related to hazards than the less-than-significant impacts that would occur from
the proposed interim helistop site.
Thus, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 and Public Resources Code Section
21002, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would not be
environmentally or feasibly superior than the proposed project because the significant
and unavoidable impacts related to noise would remain and it would generate greater
impacts to aesthetics and greater and potentially significant hazardimpacts that would not
occur by the proposed project.
The purpose of the CEQA alternatives analysis is to determine whether there is a feasible
way to achieve the basic objectives of the project, while avoiding impacts(CEQA
Guidelines Section 15126.6 and Public Resources Code Section 21002), and pursuant to
the analysis in the Recirculated Draft SEIR,the Future Tower Location as Interim
Helistop Site Alternativeand the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativediscussed
in Response to Comment C-2, above, would not substantially reduceor avoidsignificant
and unavoidable noise impacts and would result in additional aesthetics and hazards
impacts that would not occur from the proposed project.
2-25
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
CHAPTER 3
Errata
This errataincludes edits to the Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
(Recirculated Draft SEIR) for theproposed Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project. Revisions herein
do not result in newsignificant environmental impacts, do not constitute significant new information, nor
do they alterthe conclusions of the environmental analysis.
This erratahas been prepared in response to public comments received on theRecirculated Draft SEIR.
Additional editorial changes that have been initiated by City staff are herebyincorporated. These
clarifications and modifications are not considered to result in any new orgreater impacts than identified
and addressed in the Recirculated Draft SEIR. Revisions to the Recirculated Draft SEIR areshown below
as excerpts from the Recirculated Draft SEIR text. Added or modified text is underlined(example), while
deleted text will have a strike out (example) through the text.
In conformance with Section 15121 oftheCEQA Guidelines,this errata, combined with the Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Program,Response to Comments, and the Recirculated Draft SEIRcomprise
the Recirculated Final SEIR, and are intended to serve asdocuments that will inform the decision-makers
and the public of environmental effectsof the project.
3.1Changes to Recirculated Draft SEIR Text
Section 4.8, Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Alternative; page 4-43, first
sentence in the third paragraph.
“thethis Aalternative Iinterim Hhelistop flight path,”
3-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Final Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportApril 2016
DRAFT RECIRCULATED SUPPLEMENTAL EIR
TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP PROJECT
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
Prepared for February 2016
City of Temecula
TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL HELISTOP PROJECT
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
Prepared for February 2016
City of Temecula
550 West C Street
Suite 750
San Diego, CA 92101
619.719.4200
www.esassoc.com
Irvine
Los Angeles
Oakland
Orlando
Palm Springs
Petaluma
Portland
Sacramento
San Francisco
Seattle
Tampa
Woodland Hills
130652
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Temecula ValleyHospitalHelistopProject
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
Page
Executive Summary.............................................................................................................S-1
1.Introduction.....................................................................................................................1-1
1.1Summary.................................................................................................................1-2
1.2Project Background.................................................................................................1-2
1.3Environmental Review............................................................................................1-4
1.4Purpose of a Supplemental Environmental Impact Report....................................1-8
1.5Organization of the Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.....1-9
1.6Public Involvement and Reviewof the Recirculated Draft Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report..............................................................................1-10
2.Project Description.........................................................................................................2-1
2.1Introduction..............................................................................................................2-1
2.2Project Objectives...................................................................................................2-4
2.3Project Location and Site Characteristics...............................................................2-5
2.4Proposed Major Modification..................................................................................2-7
2.5Discretionary Approvals.......................................................................................2-17
2.6Cumulative Projects.............................................................................................2-18
3.Environmental Impactsand Mitigation Measures
3.1Aesthetics............................................................................................................3.1-1
3.2Hazards..............................................................................................................3.2-1
3.3Noise...................................................................................................................3.3-1
4.Project Alternatives.......................................................................................................4-1
4.1Introduction..............................................................................................................4-1
4.2Significant and Unavoidable Impacts......................................................................4-2
4.3Alternatives Analyzedand Eliminated....................................................................4-3
4.4Project Objectives...................................................................................................4-7
4.5No Project /Existing Condition Alternative..............................................................4-8
4.6No Project /City Approved Helistop Alternative...................................................4-16
4.7Alternative Interim Helistop Site...........................................................................4-24
4.8Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop SiteAlternative................................4-36
4.9Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternative.............................................4-45
4.10Environmentally Superior Alternative...................................................................4-53
5.References......................................................................................................................5-1
6.List of Preparers.............................................................................................................6-1
i
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
Table of Contents
Page
AppendixA:FAA, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ and
Riverside County ALUCCorrespondence
List of Figures
2-1Regional Location Map..............................................................................................2-6
2-2Project Vicinity Map....................................................................................................2-8
2-3Proposed Hospital Storage Building and Interim Helistop Location..........................2-9
2-4Existing and Proposed Interim and Permanent Helistop Locations.......................2-10
2-5Helistop Design Characteristics..............................................................................2-15
2-6Hospital Storage Building Elevations......................................................................2-16
2-7Cumulative Projects................................................................................................2-21
3.3-1Effects of Noise on People.....................................................................................3.3-3
3.3-2Ambient Noise Monitoring Locations.....................................................................3.3-8
3.3-3Interim Helistop North-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Santa Ana Wind Conditions....3.3-20
for Prevailing Wind Conditions.....3.3-21
3.3-4Interim Helistop South-Flow Flight Corridors
3.3-5Permanent Helistop North-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Santa Ana Wind
Conditions........................................................................................................3.3-22
3.3-6Permanent Helistop South-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Prevailing Wind
Conditions........................................................................................................3.3-24
3.3-7CNEL Contours for Interim Helistop Location......................................................3.3-27
3.3-8CNEL Contours for Permanent Helistop Location...............................................3.3-28
4-1City Approved Helistop –CNEL Contours..............................................................4-12
East-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Santa Ana Wind Conditions
4-2City ApprovedSite
............................................................................................................................4-17
West-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Prevailing Wind Conditions.....4-18
4-3City ApprovedSite
4-4Alternative Interim Helistop Site..............................................................................4-25
4-5AlternativeInterimHelistop -North-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Santa Ana Wind
Conditions..........................................................................................................4-27
4-6Alternative Interim Helistop -South-Flow Flight Corridorsfor Prevailing Wind
Conditions...........................................................................................................4-28
4-7Alternative Interim Helistop CNEL Contours...........................................................4-32
4-8Alternative Interim Helistop CNEL Contours...........................................................4-41
4-9CNEL Contoursfor the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative...............4-49
List of Tables
S-1Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures..............................S-10
2-1Planned and Approved Projects in the Project Area..............................................2-19
3.3-1Summary of Existing Ambient Noise Measurements............................................3.3-7
3.3-2Community Noise Exposure (Ldn or CNEL)........................................................3.3-10
3.3-3City of Temecula Noise/Land Use Compatibility Matrix.......................................3.3-11
3.3-4City of Temecula Land Use Maximum Noise Level Standards...........................3.3-14
3.3-5City of Temecula Municipal Code Noise/Land Use Compatibility Matrix.............3.3-15
3.3-6Helicopter Operation Times ofDay (CNEL).........................................................3.3-19
3.3-7EC-135 Helicopter Flight Corridor Use Percentages –Interim Location.............3.3-23
3.3-8EC-135 Helicopter Flight Corridor Use Percentages –PermanentLocation......3.3-23
3.3-9Single-Event Noise Levels for the Interim Helistop..............................................3.3-29
3.3-10Single-Event Noise Levels for the Permanent Helistop.......................................3.3-30
3.3-11Existing Ambient Noise and Location Point Noise for the InterimSite................3.3-32
ii
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
Table of Contents
Page
List of Tables(cont.)
3.3-12Existing Ambient Noise and Location Point Noise for the Permanent Site.........3.3-32
3.3-13Helicopter CNELNoise for Sites 6 through 9......................................................3.3-33
4-1Existing Ambient CNEL Measurements and helicopter CNEL Noise from the
City Approved Site..............................................................................................4-13
4-2Single-Event noise Levels from the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative......4-14
4-3Single-Event Noise Levels –No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative.........4-22
4-4Existing Ambient CNEL Noise and Helicopter Noise from the Alternative
Interim Site..........................................................................................................4-33
4-5Single-Event Noise for the Alternative Interim Site Alternative..............................4-34
4-6Existing Ambient CNEL Noise and Helicopter Noise from the Future Tower
Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative..........................................................4-42
4-7Single-Event Noise Levels –Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop
Alternative...........................................................................................................4-43
4-8Single-Event Noise Levels for the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternative...........................................................................................................4-50
4-9Comparison of Impacts of Alternatives and the Proposed Project.........................4-54
iii
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
Acronyms Used in this Report
ACAdvisory Circular
ADAAmericans with Disabilities Act
ALUC Airport Land Use Commission
ALUCPAirport Land Use Compatibility Plan
amslabove mean sea level
CCRCalifornia Code of Regulations
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CFR Code of Federal Regulation
CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level
CUPConditional Use Permit
dB decibel
DHS California Department of Health Services
EIR Environmental Impact Report
EMS Emergency Medical Services
FAA Federal Aviation Administration
FARFederal Aviation Regulation
FATO final approach and takeoff area
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
Hz Hertz
HVACheating, ventilation, and air conditioning
INM Integrated Noise Model
Leq Equivalent Continuous Noise Level
MNDMitigated Negative Declaration
MSLmean sea level
NOPNotice of Preparation
OSHPD California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development
PDOPlanned Development Overlay
SEIR Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
TLOF touchdown and liftoff area
UCSDUniversity of California San Diego
UHS Universal Health Services,Inc.
iv
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
S.1 Introduction
The Temecula Valley Hospital is being developed in phases; Phase 1 of the hospital began
operations on October 14, 2013. The hospital is proposingaMajor Modification to the planned
helistop facilities in response to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Caltrans Aeronautics
Division regulations, safety factors, and recent residential development adjacent to the hospital.
The proposed Major Modification would relocate the previously City-approved helistop to two
new locations, an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a permanent
location on the roof of a future hospital tower constructed during a later phase. The previously
City-approved helistop location would be developed with a new single-story 5,000-square-foot
storage building that would be used to store non-hazardous hospital supplies. With the addition of
the proposed storage building, the total square footage of the hospital facilitywould increase to
571,160 square feet (from the 566,160-square-foot facility that was approved in 2010). The
change in location of the helistop site, the proposed storage building, and the potential impacts
related to those changes to the project description,are reviewed in this Recirculated Draft
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (RDSEIR-2016) to identify potential environmental
impactsthat could result from the revised project.
This section provides a summary of the RDSEIR-2016. Thereader should review the entire
document to fully understand the proposed Major Modificationand its potential environmental
consequences.
S.2California Environmental Quality Act
Documentation Historyof the Hospital Project
The City of Temeculapreviously approved development and operation of the hospital through
certification of an EIR in 2006. ASupplemental EIR was prepared in 2008 and an Addendum to
the Supplemental EIR was prepared in 2010. Currently, the hospital is proposing aMajor
Modificationtochange the location of the City-approved helistop and construct a 5,000-square-
foot storage building. These components of change to the approved hospital projectrequire
additional California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documentation.Because the proposed
Major Modification is limited to specific facilities and operations of the hospital that include: the
helistop, helicopter flight paths, and construction and operation of a small storage facility; and no
other components or operations of the hospital project would change, a new SEIR is the
appropriate CEQA document.
S-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
An SEIR is a document that provides additional information to make the previous EIR adequately
apply to the revised project, which in this case includes the hospital with the relocated helistop
and proposed storage building. Pursuant to the State CEQA Guidelines Section 15163, an SEIR
only needs to contain the information necessary to respond to the project changes, changed
circumstances, or new information that triggered the need for additional environmental review.
A Draft SEIR (2014) was prepared for the proposed Major Modification and released for public
review and comment for 45 days, from November 12, 2014, through December 26, 2014.
However, pursuant to comments received during the public review and comment period,
additional analysis of the proposed Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project (proposed project)
has been conducted and additional information is available. As a result, the City of Temecula has
chosen to include the additional information, analysis, and editorial changes into the Draft SEIR
(2014), and recirculate the document.
This RDSEIR-2016 is for governmental agencies and interested organizations and individuals to
review and comment. Publication of this RDSEIR-2016 marks the beginning of a 45-day public
review period that ends on March 23, 2016. Written comments may be directed to:
Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
City of Temecula, Planning Department
41000 Main Street
Temecula, CA 92590
stuart.fisk@cityoftemecula.org (e-mail)
S.3 Project Location and Surroundings
The Temecula Valley Hospital site is located at 31700 Temecula Parkway in the City of
Temecula, Riverside County, California. The site is located on the north side of Temecula
Parkway, south of De Portola Road, and approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road.
Interstate 15 is approximately 2 miles to the west.
Surrounding land uses include commercial and single-family residences to the south (across
Highway 79 South); single-family residences to the north (across De Portola Road); professional
office, commercial, and educational uses to the west; and multi-family residential uses, offices
and commercial uses to the east.
S.4 Proposed Project
The Major Modification would relocate the previously City-approved helistop to two new
locations: an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a permanent location
on the roof of a future hospital tower constructed during a later phase. The interim helistop
location would be developed on a 5.5-foot-high berm on the west side of the hospital tower,
approximately 300 feet northeast of Rancho Pueblo Road and 450 feet north of Temecula
Parkway.
S-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report February 2016
Executive Summary
With buildout of the hospital project, the helistop would be relocated tothe roofofa future
second hospital tower, which would be approximately 350 feet north of Temecula Parkway, east
of the main hospital entrance. Once the permanent helistop is operational, the interim helistop
would be removed.
The two helistop locations, the interim and the permanent,wouldeach have two flight paths and
are designed in compliance with FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics requirements.
Operation of the permanent helistop is currently anticipated to occur during Phase IV in 2022,
consistent with the 2011 Major Modification approval (PA10-0194), Condition No. 27, requiring
the applicant to commence construction of the future hospital tower (hospital bed tower 2)
foundation contemplated in Phase IV no later than February 8, 2019. Once foundation
construction commences in 2019, it could take up to approximately 3 years to construct and open
the hospital tower and construct, license, and open the permanent rooftop helistop.
The previously City-approved interim helistop location would be developed in Phase II with a
5,000-square-foot single-story storage building that is 22 feet high, including a cornice that would
be provided to create architectural consistency with the main hospital buildings. In addition, the
exterior facades of the storage building would have the same stucco siding material and beige
color palette of the main hospital building in order to maintain design compatibility throughout
the hospital campus. The storage building would store non-hazardous materials such as disaster
supplies, “attic stock” for the hospital, and linens.
S.5Project Objectives
City Objectives
The City’s objectivesfor the proposed project and project area, as listed in the 2006 EIR and
2008 SEIR, are to:
Provide for superior, easily accessible emergency medical services within the City of
Temecula.
Provide for a regional hospital campus,including a hospital facility, medical offices,
cancer center, and fitness rehabilitation center designed to be an operationally efficient
state-of-the-art facility.
Encourage future development of a regional hospital and related services.
Support development of biomedical, research, and office facilities to diversify
Temecula’s employment base,
Ensure the compatibility of development on the subject site with surrounding uses in
terms of the size and configuration of buildings, use of materials and landscaping, the
location of access routes, noise impacts, traffic impacts, and other environmental
conditions,
Incorporate buffers that minimize the impacts of noise, light, visibility of activity, and
vehicular traffic on surrounding residential uses.
S-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
Applicant Objectives
The objectives of UniversalHealth Services, Inc. (UHS) for the proposed project, as listed in the
2006 EIR and 2008 SEIR, are to:
Provide high-quality health services to the residents of Temecula and surrounding
communities.
Provide a regional hospital facility that includes standard hospital services, with
outpatient care, rehabilitation, and medical offices.
Provide a regional hospital facility designed to be an operationally efficient, state-of-the-
art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors.
Provide medical offices, a cancer center and fitness rehabilitation center adjacent to the
hospital facility to meet the needs of doctors and patients who requireready access to the
hospital for medical procedures.
Proposed ProjectObjectives
The proposed relocation of the City-approved helistop is consistent with and furthers the project
objectives listed above. Specifically, the proposed heliport locations would provide for superior,
easily accessible, operationally efficient, state-of-the-art emergency medical facilities and
services within the City of Temecula that help meet the medical needs of the region. The
proposed heliport facilities would provide hospital doctors and patients enhanced accessibility to
state-of-the art medical procedures at other regional hospitals or specialized hospital facilities. In
addition, the proposed helistop locations would further the project objectives of providing buffers
that minimize the impacts of helicopter related noise,hazards,light, and visibility of activity on
surrounding residential uses and ensuring the compatibility of development on the hospital site
with surrounding uses in terms of minimizing potential hazards/safety impacts.
The proposed storage building is an ancillary structure that would assist with efficient daily
operations of the hospital. It would also be architecturally consistent with the main hospital
building and would be consistent with project objectives related to providing compatible
development between the project site and surrounding uses.
S.6Environmental Impacts Evaluated in this Draft
Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report
Through preparation of anInitial Study (included as Appendix A), the City determined that the
proposed project may have a significant impact on the environment, and that preparation of a
CEQA analysis document is necessary toevaluatepotentially significant impacts related to
aesthetics, hazards, andnoise,and that all other CEQA-related environmental topic areas would
not be impacted, such that new or substantially more severe impacts could occur beyond what
was identified in previous CEQA documents.
S-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
The analysis contained in this CEQA document uses the words “significant” and “less than
significant” in the discussion of impacts. These terms specifically define the degree of impact in
relation to thresholds used to determine significance of impact identified in each environmental
impact section. As required by CEQA, mitigation measures have been included to avoid or
substantially reduce the level of significant impact. Certain significant impacts, even with the
inclusion of mitigation measures, cannot be reduced to a level below significance. Such impacts
are identified as “significant unavoidable impacts.” A summary of the environmental impacts,
Table S-1
mitigation measures, and level of impact remaining after mitigation is presented in of
this Executive Summary.
Less-than-Significant Impacts
As presented in more detail in Chapter 3, Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation
Measures,all impacts related to aesthetics and hazards were found to be less than significant.
Significant and Unavoidable Impacts
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(b) requires a discussion of any significant impacts that
“cannot be avoided if the proposed project is implemented.” Based upon the analysis in
Chapter 3, the following issue areas would have significant and unavoidable impacts after
implementation of project mitigation measures (see Section 3.3 for details):
Generation of Noise Levels in Excess of Applicable Standards
Substantial Periodic Increases in Noise
Cumulative Noise
Feasible mitigation has been required. However, flight related mitigation measures cannot be
placed on this type of medical helicopter activity to reduce noise impactsbecause the California’s
Public Utilities Code (PUC) Section 21662.4 states that emergency aircraft flights for medical
purposes are exempt from local restrictions relatedto flight departures and arrivals based upon
the aircraft's noise level.Accordingly, the City cannot restrict helicopter activity at the hospital
for medical purposes, and impacts related to generation of noise in excess of applicable standards,
substantial temporary and periodic increases in ambient noise levels, and cumulative noise
impactsfrom short-term noise events from helicopter overflights are significant and unavoidable.
Asthis is the case, a Statement of Overriding Considerations is required for the project, in
accordance with CEQA GuidelinesSection 15093. It should be noted that the previous CEQA
documentation for development and operation of the overall hospital project, also identified
significant and unavoidable noise impacts. Therefore, the noise findings of this RDSEIR-2016 are
consistent with previous CEQA findings.
S.7Alternatives to the Proposed Project
The City has consideredalternatives for the hospitalhelistop. Through the comparison of
potential alternatives to the proposed project, the relative advantages of each can be weighed and
analyzed.The CEQA Guidelinesrequire that a range of alternatives addressed be “governed by a
S-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
rule of reason that requires the EIR to set forth only those alternatives necessary to permit a
reasoned choice” (Section 15126.6\[a\]). The following alternatives are examined in thisRDSEIR-
2016.
No Project/Existing Condition Alternative
The hospital currently uses the ground surface at the City-approved helistop site (located near the
northeast corner of the site) as an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) landing site when
necessary. To ensure safety during EMS medical helicopter operations, the hospital andCity of
Temecula Fire and Police Departmentshave outlined parameters for helicopter use of this
location.
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative assumes that this existing condition would
continue and that the City-approved helistop would not be developed. In addition, none of the
required implementation measures, such as installing obstruction lights on the Madera Vista
apartment buildings, realignment of the flight path, adding a second egress/ingress flight path, or
trimming the trees within the drainage adjacent to the hospital, which would require approval and
permits from state and federal resource agencies, would be completed. The proposed storage
building would also not be developed.
No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative assumes that none of the requested project
approvals are granted, and that the existing City-approved helistop location would be developed.
The City-approved interim helistop would be developed on a 14-foot-high platform near the
northeast corner of the hospital, approximately 100 feet from the eastern property line. This
alternative would include two flight paths: the original City-approved flight path that would travel
over the recently constructed Madera Vista apartment buildings in a southeasterly direction to and
from the project site, and a second flight path that the FAA subsequently required in the airspace
determination letter, which would travel above single-family residential areas to the west of the
project site. The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative may also involve the addition of
obstruction lights on the top of the two-story Madera Vista apartment buildings as required by
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would not
include development of the proposed storage building.
Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
The Alternative Helistop Site Alternative would develop the proposed interim helistop at a
different location on the project site. The alternative site would be at ground level in the
southwestern portion of the project site, approximately 144 feet north of Temecula Parkway and
approximately 275 feet from the western boundary of the project site. The flight paths for this
helistop site would cross the front of the hospital site, between the hospital structures and
Temecula Parkway, and would be aligned parallel to (and 144 feet north of) Temecula Parkway.
This helistop would include the same design, lighting, and security features as the interim
helistop. However, red obstruction lights would also be required on (or next to) several Southern
California Edison power poles along Temecula Parkway to warnpilots of their locations at night.
This alternative would include development of the storage building, as proposed. Implementation
S-6
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
of this alternative would require helistop and flight path designs pursuant to all applicable
aeronautical agencies criteria(Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission \[ALUC\],
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and FAA).
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would develop the interim
helistop at ground level at the planned future hospital tower location. The flight paths for this
helistop site would be the same the northeast/southwest flight paths identified for the permanent
helistop and would be consistent with the applicable criteria of theaeronautical agencies
(Riverside County ALUC, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and FAA). Development of the
future hospital tower will occur in Phase IV of the hospital project. To allow for construction of
the future hospital tower, the helistop would need to be temporarily relocated to the proposed
interim helistop site, which would require all construction activities proposed for the interim site.
After completion of the future hospital tower, the permanent helistop (on the roof of the new
tower) would be operational and the interim location that would be used during construction of
the new towerwould be removed. This alternative would include development of the storage
building, as proposed. Implementation of this alternative would require helistop and flight path
designs pursuant to all applicable aeronautical agencies criteria (Riverside County ALUC,
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and FAA).
Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternative
The Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternative would develop the helistop on the roof of
the existing five-story hospital building. A similar northeast/southwest flight paths identified for
the permanent helistop would be used by the helistop on the roof of the existing hospital building.
This alternative would include development of the storage building, as proposed. Implementation
of this alternative would require helistop and flight path designs pursuant to all applicable criteria
of the aeronautical agencies (Riverside County ALUC, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and
FAA).
Because the additional mass from the helistop and helicopter would be substantial relative to the
existing roof mass, seismic upgrades would be required pursuant to the California Building Code
(CBC). In particular, the existing hospital building was designed and constructed in compliance
with 2007 CBC requirements. Building modifications under this alternative would be required to
comply witheitherthe 2013 CBCor the CBC in place when building permits are issued.
Currently, the 2013 CBC regulations are mandated,which aremore stringent in terms of seismic
requirements than the 2007 CBC. The 2013 CBC requires the following improvements to support
ahelistop on the roof of the existing hospital:
Gravity Support Modifications:
(1) Existing roof beams of the hospital structure would
be required to be strengthened by adding cover plates or tees welded to the underside of
the beams; (2) Connections of the affected beams would needto bestrengthened by
supplemental fillet welding; and (3) Approximately eight existing building columns
would need to be strengthened with cover plates from the ground up to the roof.This
structural work, involving walls, floors and ceilings from the ground floor up to the
S-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
ceiling, would impact the following areas/systems within the hospital building for the
duration of construction:
a. First Floor: parts of kitchen, main housekeeping, pharmacy, and the only service
corridor.
b. Second Floor: two intensive care unit rooms, patient mentoring room, respiratory
services work room, and main corridor.
c. Third Floor: five patient rooms and corridor.
d. Fourth Floor: five patient rooms and corridor.
e. Two patient elevators would need to be modified to go to the roof.
Pile Foundation Modifications:
The existing pile foundations of the hospital structure
would need to be strengthened with additional piles. As with the gravity support work,
this structural work would impact the first-floor kitchen, main housekeeping, pharmacy,
and the only service corridor during construction.
Framing Modifications:
The existing moment frames and braced frames would need to
be strengthened as a result of the increase in seismic loading. Likewise, the pile
foundation supporting the existing seismic bracing system would need to be strengthened
with additional piles.This structural work would impact medical surgery patient rooms
throughout the tower and the first-floor emergency department, pharmacy, and kitchen
areas.
In addition to the CBC-required improvements, a fuel/water separator would need to be installed
on the rooftop, the fire-suppression system of the hospital would be required to undergo
substantial upgrades, and the existing rooftop heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
system may need to be replaced.Insufficient separation between the HVAC intakes and
helicopterengine exhaust could create harmful air quality conditions within the hospital. Should
insufficient separation exist, the hospital would need to modify or replace the HVAC units with
advanced carbon filtration and ionization systems. This would require an increase in air handler
fan size to increase static air pressure.
Construction of the above-listed improvements could take approximately 16 months, depending
on the strategy chosen for facility operations, during which time the affected areas would be
significantly disrupted and/or unusable. Areas outside of the hospital, which are nearby or
underneath construction equipment (such as cranes), would also be unusable, which would affect
hospital operations.
Environmentally Superior Alternative
Section 15126.6(e) (2) of the CEQA Guidelines requires that an SEIR identify the
environmentally superior alternative. Based on the analysiswithin this section, the Existing
Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternativeis the Environmentally Superior Alternative.The
Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternativewould result in fewer aesthetics impacts,
similar hazards impacts, greater construction noise impacts, and reduced operational noise
(particularly, at the interim helistop) impacts.However, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
S-8
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Executive Summary
Alternative would continue to result in significant and unavoidable impacts related to exceedance
of noise standards, substantial periodic increases in noise, and cumulative noise from operation of
the helistop.
The other alternatives that are evaluated within this RDSEIR-2016 would result in greater
impacts than would occur by the proposed interim helistop location, and/orwould not
substantially reduce the significant unavoidable noise impacts related to the project. Therefore,
the Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternative is the Environmentally Superior
Alternative.However, this alternative would require substantial improvements and upgrades to
the existing hospital thatwould result in substantial operational impacts to the hospital during the
16 months that the improvements would be implemented, which would not occur by the proposed
project. The disruption to operations of the hospital that would occur by implementation of the
Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternativewould interfere with project objectives,
including providing a regional hospital facility that is an operationally efficient, state-of-the art
facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors, providing for superior, easily
accessible emergency medical services, and ensuring compatibility of development on the subject
site with surrounding uses.
S-9
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / D130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
6
ESA / D130652
201
February
Level of Impact after Mitigation
Significant and unavoidable
location and its operation at the hospital. The sign will include helicopter noise
activity which shall
make contact information for registering noise
, the
All helicopter operations at the interim and permanent helistop locations shall
will be responsible for the design, preparation, and installation of the sign, as
information and warnings to equestrian users. The Temecula Valley Hospital
Temecula Valley Hospital service contracts with air medical companies shall
time
Pilots would be instructed in the use of the
flight paths, unless safety precautions require a diversion ircraft flights for medical purposes cannot be restricted due to the aircraft's noise
require that all pilots be routinely trained to ensure that optimum arrival and
shall prepare and
ture flight paths procedures are followed for each helicopter type that
meets periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the
develop and
helicopter
Temecula Valley Hospital shall establish a community working group that
If a diversion from prescribed flight paths occurs
implement a Heliport Operations Plan which requires the following measures:
adjacent to the hospital site. The signs will notice riders of the helistop include a detailed record of the type of reason for the trip, and date and
install signage at both ends of the portion of the equestrian trail that is
IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURE
allowing
Prior to helicopter operations, Temecula Valley Hospital shall
Temecula Valley Hospital shall maintain a log of helicopter
pital
permit
, the Temecula Valley Hos
City reason for diversion shall be recorded in the log.
approach and departure flight paths.
community to discuss helicopter noise issues.
issuance of a
-1
.
Section 21662.4
serves Temecula Valley Hospital.
TABLE S
10
al shall
Prior to
.
S-
Implementation of the proposed project would not result in significant aesthetics impacts.
complaints publicly available
.
from any of the flight paths.
result in significant hazards impacts
NTAL
at the interim helistop
well as all related costs.
of arrival and departure.
Temecula Valley Hospit
1:
SUMMARY OF ENVIRONME
-
Mitigation Measure NOI
PUC
approved
Mitigation Measure
California
approved
use the
depar
operations
level per
A
Implementation of the proposed project would not
.
Ambient Noise Levels in the Project Vicinity and
Exposure of Persons to Excessive Noise Levels
Substantial Temporary or Periodic Increase in
Report
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Project
Environmental Impact
Hospital Helistop
Executive Summary
Aesthetics
Temecula Valley
Hazards
Noise
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
This chapter provides an introduction and describes the background of the proposed Temecula
ValleyHospitalHelistop Project(proposed project), the purpose and legal authority for this
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (RDSEIR-2016), and the
relationship to the previously certified project Environmental Impact Report (EIR) (2006),
previously certified Supplemental EIR (SEIR) (2008), previously certified Addendum to the
SEIR (2010), and the Draft SEIR from 2014.
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that all state and local government
agencies consider the environmental consequences of programs and projects over which they
have discretionary authority before taking action on those projects or programs. Where there is
substantial evidence that a project may have a significant effect on the environment, the agency
shall prepare an EIR (State CEQA Guidelines Section 15164\[a\]). An EIR is an informational
document that will inform public agency decision makers and the general public of the significant
environmental effects of a project, identify possible ways to minimize the significant effects, and
describe reasonable alternatives to the project.In this case, anSEIR (2014) was prepared to
evaluate the change in the location of the Temecula Valley Hospital helistop that was previously
approved by the City under separate CEQA documentation.
CEQA requires thata Draft EIR(or Draft SEIR)be prepared and circulated for public review.
Following the close of the public review period, the lead agency prepares a Final EIR(or in this
case a Final RSEIR), which includes the comments received during the review period (either
verbatim or in summary), and responses to the significant environmental issues identified in those
comments. Prior to taking action on a proposed project, the lead agency must certify the SEIR
and make certain findings.
A lead agency is required to recirculate a Draft EIR(Draft SEIR), prior to certification, when
“significant new information” is added after the public review period begins (State CEQA
Guidelines Section 15088.5). New information is deemed significant if it reveals any of the
following:
A new significant environmental impact resulting from either the project itself or a new
proposed mitigation measure.
A substantial increase in the severity of an environmental impact would result unless
mitigation measures are adopted that reduce the impact to a level of insignificance.
1-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
1. Introduction
A feasible project alternative or mitigation measure considerably different from others
previously analyzed would clearly lessen the significant environmental impacts of the
project, but the project proponent declines to adopt it.
The Draft EIR was so fundamentally flawed that it precluded meaningful public review
and comment.
In addition, a lead agency may choose to recirculate aDraftEIR(or Draft SEIR) if additional
studies or analysis is conducted for a project before a specific action is taken by the Lead Agency
to approve a project. Public notice and circulation of the Recirculated SEIR (RSEIR) is required,
per CEQA Guidelines Sections 15086 and 15087.
Pursuant to comments received during the public review and comment period, additional analysis
of the proposed project has been conducted and additional information is available. As a result,
the City of Temecula has chosen to include the additional information, analysis, and editorial
changes into the SEIR, and recirculatethe document.
1.1Summary
The Temecula Valley Hospital is located at 31700 Temecula Parkway in the City of Temecula.
The project applicant proposes a Major Modification to the planned helistopfacilities in response
to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)and Caltrans Aeronautics Division regulations, safety
factors, and recent residential development adjacent to the hospital site. The proposed Major
Modification would relocate the previously City-approved helistop to two new locations:an
interimhelistop location for use during preliminary project phases and a permanent helistop
location on the roof of a future hospital tower when it is constructed during Phase IV. The
previously City-approved interim helistop location would be developed with a one-story,
5,000-square-foot storage building that would provide storage space for nonhazardous hospital
materials such as disaster supplies, “attic stock” for the hospital, and linens. With the addition of
the proposed 5,000-square-foot storage building, the total square footage of the hospital facility
would increase to 571,160square feet (from the 566,160-square-foot facility that was approved in
2008). The change in location of the helistop site, the construction and operation of the storage
facility, and the potential impacts related to those project changesare reviewed in this RDSEIR-
2016 to determine if any additional environmental impacts would result from the revised project.
1.2Project Background
An EIR was prepared for the Temecula Valley Hospital project that was certified by the City of
Temecula (City) in January 2006. In February 2006, a legal challengeto the hospital projectwas
filedon the grounds that the EIR was inadequate, whichresulted in a ruling that found that the
EIR did not adequately address several areas, andthat the City failed to make valid findings that
the City had adopted all feasible mitigation measures before adopting a Statement of Overriding
Considerations. In response, the City prepared anSEIR,pursuant to the court’s direction,thatwas
certified in 2008.
1-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
In 2011, the project applicant, Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS)filed a planning application
to change the phasing of the project by reducing the number of beds from 170 to 140 in Phase 1,
modify the building facades, relocate the truck-loading bays and service yards, and to relocate
mechanical equipment. An Addendum to the 2008 Final SEIR was prepared and adopted by the
City in February 2011. Additionally, in July 2012,a conservation easement was approved to
satisfy the off-site mitigation requirements for impacts caused by development of the hospital.
Phase 1 of the hospital began operations on Monday, October 14, 2013. Use of helicopters to
transport emergency patients to and from the hospital is part of the planned hospital services; the
hospital currently uses the City-approved helistop site as an Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
landing site, when necessary, which is allowable under state regulations related to medical
transport (California Code of Regulations \[CCR), Title 21, Section 3527(g)). The existing City-
approved landing site is located on the northern side of the existing hospital structure and has a
shared approach and departure that consists of a single flight path into and out of the hospital site.
The City-approved helistop has not completed the full approval process with the Riverside
Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC), Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, or the Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA), and has not been developed. Caltrans Aeronautics conducted a
preliminary review, but required the single flight path to be rotated clockwise (approximately
36 degrees) to clear the Madera Vista apartmentsthat are located next to the hospital to the east
(on the northwest corner of Dartolo Road and Margarita Road), or that red obstruction lights be
installed on themulti-family buildings.
The rotated flight path would result in potentially hazardous near crosswind conditions for pilots
on approach or departure. In addition, the FAA reviewed the City-approved helistop site and
requiresseveral conditions, including the addition of a second flight path in a northwestern
direction that would cross directly over the Los Ranchitos neighborhood and removing or
trimming the height of trees that arelocated within a drainage adjacent to the hospital. Any work
in the drainage area, including tree trimming or removal, would require approvals and/or permits
from county, state,and federal resource agencies.
The City and hospital determined that the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ and FAA’s
conditions were unacceptable due to potential impacts on off-site land uses as well as concerns
over crosswind safety conditions for helicopter flights on approach or departure. As a result, the
interim helistop facility has been redesigned and the applicant undertook a site selection process
to satisfy both FAA and Caltrans Aeronautics Division requirements and to reduce conflicts with
adjacent development. This process resulted in the “proposed interim helistop site.”Because
construction of the hospital project is phased, two helistop locations would be developed: one
interim and one permanent location. When the permanent helistop is operational, the interim
helistop would be removed.
The proposed interim helistop site was submitted to the FAA, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
and Riverside County ALUC for review. In response, the FAA provided an airspace
determination letter, which stated that the FAA analysis determined that the proposed helistop is
acceptable from an airspace utilization standpoint and use of the helistop would not adversely
1-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
affect the safe and efficientuse of airspace. The FAA letter concluded that it does not object to
the proposed helistop (FAA, 2013). Also, on February 13, 2014, the Riverside County ALUC
found that the proposed helistop is consistent with the countywide policies of the 2004 Riverside
County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. In addition, on June 12, 2013, Caltrans Division of
Aeronautics signed and stamped aHeliport Layout Plan granting “Conditional Plan Approval” for
the proposed helistop (a formal application package cannot be submitted to Caltrans Aeronautics
until the City of Temecula approves the project). All three of these letters are provided in
Appendix A.
1.3 Environmental Review
The following provides a history and timeline of the environmental documentation that has been
prepared for the Temecula Valley Hospital.
January 2006 Environmental Impact Report
UHS filed planning applications in 2004 and 2005 for a General Plan Amendment (PA04-0462);
Conditional Use Permit (CUP)and Development Plan (PA04-0463); a Tentative Parcel Map
(PA04-0571); and a Zone Change to PDO-9 (Planned Development Overlay-9) (PA05-0302) to
develop and operate the regional hospital facility. This included the following:
A General Plan Amendment to remove the Z2 overlay from the General PlanLand Use
Map, which limitedthe height of buildings along Temecula Parkway to two stories, and
the Professional Office General Plan land use designation from the site.
A Zone Change from Professional Office and De Portola Road Planned Development
Overlay (PDO-8) to Temecula Hospital Planned Development Overlay (PDO-9). PDO-9
allows a maximum building height of 115 feet for 30 percent of the roof area of the
hospital.
A CUP to construct a 320-bed hospital facility and helistop (City zoning regulations
require CUPs for such uses).
A Development Plan application for the construction of a 408,160-square-foot hospital, a
helistop, two medical offices totaling approximately 140,000 square feet, a 10,000-
square-foot cancer center, and an 8,000-square-foot fitness rehabilitation center. Total
building area would involve approximately 566,160 square feet on the 35.31-acre site.
A Tentative Parcel Map (Map 32468) to consolidate eightlots into a single parcel.
The City circulated an Initial Study from March 8, 2005 to April 6, 2005 (State Clearinghouse #
2005031017)withthe intent of preparing a Mitigated Negative Declaration. At the Planning
Commission hearing held on April 20, 2005, the City receivedpublic input and testimony and
determined that a Focused EIR should be prepared for the project to analyze potential aesthetics,
air quality, hydrology and groundwater, land use and planning, noise, and transportation impacts.
Hence, the City prepared an EIR that was circulated from September 28, 2005, to October 28,
2005. The Final EIR was prepared and City Planning Commission hearings were held on
1-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
November 16, 2005, and January 5, 2006, and the City Council adopted a resolution certifying
the EIR on January 24, 2006.
On February 24, 2006, a legal challenge to the project on the grounds that the EIR was inadequate
in several respects was filed by two separate groups (California Nurses Association and Citizens
Against Noise and Traffic) and resulted in a court ruling that rejected many of the challenges, but
found that the EIR did not adequately address the following areas:
Construction noise impacts
Siren noise impacts
Mitigation measures for traffic impacts
Potential impacts from underground methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) plumes
generated by three gas stations in the vicinity that might have the potential to migrate
under the site, contaminate the soil on the site, and generate unhealthful gas vapors
January 2008 Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
On May 3, 2007, the Riverside County Superior Court issued a Judgment and Peremptory Writ of
Mandate and directed the City to vacate the project approvals and not to reconsider the project
unless it first circulated, reviewed, and considered a SEIR that addressed noise impacts, traffic
mitigation and the potential impact of MTBE plumes, as previously described. Other
environmental impacts addressed in the prior EIR were considered to be adequate withCEQA
and were not revisited in the SEIR.
New planning applications for the project were submitted \[PA07-0198 (General Plan
Amendment), PA07-0199 (Zone Change), PA07-0200 (Development Plan), PA07-0201
(Tentative Parcel Map), and PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permit)\], and on July 12, 2007, a
scoping session was held in accordance with the Riverside County Superior Court direction. The
SEIR was circulated for public review from November 5, 2007, to December 5, 2007, and on
January 9, 2008, the Planning Commission considered the new planning applications and
recommended that the City Council certify the SEIR. On January 22, 2008, the City Council
rescinded and invalidated its previous approvals of PA04-0462 (General Plan Amendment),
PA04-0463 (Conditional Use Permit and Development Plan), PA04-0571 (Tentative Parcel Map),
and PA05-0302 (Zone Change to PDO-9); approved planning applications for PA07-0198
(General Plan Amendment), PA07-0199 (Zone Change), PA07-0200 (Development Plan), PA07-
0201 (Tentative Parcel Map), and PA07-0202 (Conditional Use Permit); and adopted Resolution
No. 08-10 certifying the SEIR for the project. No additional legal challenge was brought forward.
February2011 Major Modification and Addendum
On June 18, 2010, UHS filed planning application PA10-0194 for a Major Modification to a
Development Plan to change the phasing of the project by reducing the number of beds from 170
to 140 in Phase 1, to modify the building facades of the hospital towers, to relocate the truck-
loading bays and service yards, and to relocate mechanical equipment from an outdoor area at the
service yard to an expanded indoor area at the northern portion of the hospital building. An
1-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
Addendum was prepared to the Final SEIR to assess the potential environmental effects of the
approval of the Major Modification application. On December 15, 2010, the City Planning
Commission recommended approval of the Addendum and Findings that the Major Modification
does not involve significant new effects, does not change the baseline environmental conditions,
and does not represent new information of substantial importance that shows that the Major
Modification wouldhave one or more significant effects not previously discussed in the Final
SEIR. On February 8, 2011, the City Council adopted a resolution to approve the Addendum for
the project.
No legal challenge was brought forward and UHS began construction on the project. Construction
of Phase 1 began in June 2011, and Phase 1 began operating on October 14, 2013.
July 2012 Mitigation Easement
In July 2012, a conservation easement of 1.9 acres was approved as the Wilson Creek mitigation
site through an agreement with UHS and Wilson Creek Farms, LLC. The easement is provided to
satisfy the off-site mitigation requirements for impacts caused by the development of the hospital
as set forth by the requirements of the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San
Diego Region Amendment to Clean Water Act Section 401 and water quality condition 11c-031
from the Section 401 Permit, dated September 26, 2011.
November2014 Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report
ANotice of Preparation (NOP) for the proposed Major Modification was circulated for public
comment through the State Clearinghouse for a 30-day period, from December 2, 2013, through
December 31, 2013. A copy of the NOP is included as Appendix A. Thereafter, theDraft SEIR
for the proposed Major Modification was submitted to the State Clearinghouse and released for
public review and comment for 45 days, from November 12, 2014, through December 26, 2014.
A Notice of Availability was published in a local newspaper and the Draft EIR was also made
available for public review at several locations, including City offices and on the City’s website
at: http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Government/CommDev/Planning/ceqa.htm.
2016 Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental
Impact Report
Pursuant to comments received during the public review and comment period, additional analysis
of the proposed project has been conducted and additional information is available. As a result,
the City of Temecula has chosen to include the additional information, analysis, and editorial
changes into the SEIR, and recirculate the document. The additional information and analysis
involves noise impacts from helicopter flight activity. Specifically, this RDSEIR-2016 evaluation
of helicopter operational noise was expanded to include five additional sensitive receptor
locations, and single-event noise metrics that provide compatibility criteria forthe sensitive noise
receptors in the project vicinity.This analysis resulted in modifications to the noise mitigation
measure (NOI-1).
1-6
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
In addition, the alternatives analysis has been expanded within this RDSEIR-2016. The Draft
SEIR (2014) included analysis of the No Project Alternative and the Alternative Interim Helistop
Alternative. This RDSEIR-2016 has been expanded to include an evaluation of a second No
Project Alternative (the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative)and two new alternatives that
include the Future Tower Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative and the Existing Hospital
Roof Helistop Site Alternative. This RDSEIR-2016 also includes a discussion of three different
alternativesthat involve six different locations for the helistopthat were considered but were
eliminated from further consideration because they do not meet the majority of the project
objectives, do not avoid or substantially lessen significant impacts, and/or were otherwise
determined to be infeasible.
Proposed Helistop Project
The environmental analysis of the currently proposed helistopwas initiated by the City with the
preparation of an Initial Study. Through the preparation of the Initial Study, the City determined
that the proposed projectmay have a significant impact on the environment, and that an SEIR
was necessary to analyze potentially significant impacts related to aesthetics, hazards, and noise.
A NOP was prepared and distributed with the Initial Study for a 30-day public review period. In
addition, a public scoping meeting was held on December 11, 2013, to introduce the proposed
project to the community, and to provide an opportunity for the public to submit verbal and
written comments and recommendations regarding the issues to be addressed in the Draft SEIR
(2014). Copies of the Initial Study, notice of the public scoping meeting, and comments received
in response are included as Appendix A.
Section 15123 (b)(2) of the CEQA Guidelines requires that an SEIR summary identify areas of
controversy known to the Lead Agency, including issues raised by other agencies and the public.
Key issues raised during the NOP comment period included noise from helicopter flights and
impacts related to use of the adjacent equestrian trail as helicopters arrive and depart the helistop.
From the Initial Study/NOP process, it was determined that potential impacts related to aesthetics,
hazards, and noise be evaluated in the Draft SEIR (2014) and that all other CEQA related
environmental topic areas would not be impacted such that new or substantially more severe
impacts, and evaluation in the Draft SEIR (2014) would be necessary, as described in Section 1.4
below.
Subsequent to the Initial Study/NOP process, the project applicant requested the addition of the
proposed storage building into the proposed project being evaluated in this CEQA document. The
City reviewed the Initial Study prepared for the proposed Major Modification and determined that
potential impacts related to construction and operation of the proposed storage building would be
limited to the topics identified for the proposed helistop locations (i.e., aesthetics, hazards, and
noise) and that all other CEQA-related environmental topic areas would not be affected such that
new or substantially more severe impacts would require evaluation in the Draft SEIR (2014).
1-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
1.4 Purpose of a Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report
CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 states when an EIR has been prepared for a project, a
subsequent or supplemental environmental impact report is required only if “substantial changes”
in the project or itscircumstances will result in new or substantially more severe impacts that
require additional analysis. A subsequent or supplemental document is required if one or more of
the following events occurs:
1. Substantial changes are proposed in the project that will require major revisions of the
previous EIR due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a
substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects.
2.Substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is
undertaken which will require major revisions in the previous EIR due to the involvement
of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of
previously identified significant effects.
3. New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have
been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was
certified as complete, showing any signs of the following:
A. The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous
EIR.
B. Significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown
in the previous EIR.
C.Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would in fact
be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the
project, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measures or
alternatives.
D.Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those
analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant
effects on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation
measures or alternatives. (CEQA GuidelinesSection 15162(a).)
CEQA GuidelinesSection15163 states that a lead agency may choose to prepare a “supplement”
to an EIR rather than a “subsequent” EIR if:
Any of the conditions described previously inCEQA GuidelinesSection15162 would
require the preparation of a subsequent EIR.
Only minor additions or changes would be necessary to make the previous EIR
adequately apply to the project in the changed situation.
As affirmed in CEQA GuidelinesSection15163, a SEIR is necessary if there is a change in the
project or circumstances, or new information of substantial importance that was not known
1-8
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
previously that indicates the project will have an effect on the environment that was not covered
in the previous EIR. Since the additional analysis required for the changed project components
and changed circumstances would not require major revisions to the previous EIR, a SEIR is the
appropriate document. A SEIR, as its name implies, supplements the EIR already prepared for a
project to address project changes, changed circumstances, or new information that was not
known, and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the
prior document was certified. The purpose of a SEIR is to provide the additional information
necessary to make the previous EIR adequately apply to the project as revised. Consequently, the
SEIR need contain only the information necessary to respond to the project changes, changed
circumstances, or new information that triggered the need for additional environmental review, as
stated in CEQA GuidelinesSection15163. As such, the change in location of the helistop site,
and the potential impacts related to the two new locations, would require preparation of a SEIR.
As previously stated, the focus of a SEIR is whether the project changes, changed circumstances,
or new information give rise to a significant new or substantially more severe environmental
impact than was identified and analyzed in the prior EIR. Preparation of a SEIR does not
“re-open” the prior certified EIR, the analysis is limited to whether those new changes result in
new or more severe impacts. The SEIR need only consider the new project components and/or
changed circumstances in light of the certified Final EIR(s) already prepared for the project. A
supplement to an EIR may be circulated for public review by itself without recirculating the
previous draft or final EIR. A subsequent EIR, in contrast, is a complete EIR, largely rewritten,
which focuses on the conditions described in CEQA GuidelinesSection 15162.
Proposed Project
The City has identified the proposed change in helistop locations and construction and operation
of the additional 5,000-square-foot storage building on the hospital site to be new information of
substantial importance that needs to be evaluated. Because the proposed change is limited to the
helistop location, flight paths, and a storage building; and no other components or operations of
the hospital facility would change, a SEIR is the appropriate CEQA document.
The SEIR is prepared to provide additional information to make the previous EIR adequately
apply to the hospital with the relocated helistop locationsand proposed storage building.As
described previously, CEQA GuidelinesSection15163 states that the SEIR need contain only the
information necessary to respond to the project changes, changed circumstances, or new
information that triggered the need for additional environmental review.As also described above,
the City prepared an Initial Study and NOP, and identified that the only potential significant
environmental impacts that could be generated from the proposed project are related to aesthetics,
hazards, and noise, which are evaluated in Chapter 3, Environmental Impact Analysis.
1.5 Organizationof this Recirculated Draft
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
This RDSEIR-2016 was prepared in accordance with the provisions of CEQA GuidelinesSection
15163.It includes CEQA-required sections and incorporates the balanceof the CEQA sections
contained in the original EIR by reference. This RDSEIR-2016 is organized as follows.
1-9
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
Executive Summary:
The executive summary, which precedes this introduction,includes a brief
understanding of theproposed revisions to the City-approved project and summarizesthe revised
project impacts, mitigation measures, and alternatives to the proposed project.
Chapter 1 – Introduction:
The introduction includes the purpose of a SEIR,CEQA and City
procedural information, and a summary of the CEQA documents that have been certified for the
Temecula Valley Hospital, including the original EIR (2006), 2008 SEIR, 2011 Addendum to the
2008SEIR, and the 2014 Draft SEIR. In addition, the introduction includes public involvement
information.
Chapter 2 – Project Description:
The project description is based on existing information and
includes the project location and setting, site characteristics, project objectives and the
characteristics of the proposed helistoplocations and the proposed storage building. This section
will also include the requested permits and approvals for the proposed project. In addition, this
section will include a discussion of the past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects
and activities in the surrounding areas that will serve as the basis for the cumulative impact
analysis.
Chapter 3 – Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures:
For each potentially
significant issue identified in the NOP,this section includes a discussion of the environmental
setting, project impacts, cumulative impacts, project design features, level of significance before
mitigation, mitigation measures, and the level of significance after mitigation. The assessment of
impacts are consistent with CEQA requirements and use defined thresholds of significance to
determine the impacts of the proposed helistop locations.
Chapter 4 – Project Alternatives:
Several alternatives have been developed for the project and
were evaluated in the previous EIR (2006) and SEIR (2008) and areincorporated by reference.
The alternatives evaluation within this RDSEIR-2016 includes four alternatives in addition to the
mandatory no project alternative. For each alternative, a description of the alternative,
consideration of the alternative in relation to the basic objectives of the project (established by the
applicant and the City), and a comparative analysis of the environmental impacts attributable to
the alternative versus those associated with the proposed project for each of the environmental
categories are provided.
Chapter 5 –References:
All references of datathat contributed to the environmental analysis.
Chapter 6 – List of Preparers:
Persons who prepared this environmental document.
1.6 Public Involvement and Reviewof the
Recirculated Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report
The City, as required under CEQA, encourages public participation in the environmental review
process. Opportunities for comments by public agencies and the public include responding to the
1-10
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
1. Introduction
NOP, written comments on this RDSEIR-2016, and presentation of written or verbal comments at
future public hearings.
This RDSEIR-2016 is being circulated to local, state, and federal agencies, and to interested
organizations and individuals who may wish to review and comment on the document. This
RDSEIR-2016 is also available on the City’s website at:
http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Government/CommDev/Planning/ceqa.htm.
Publication of this RDSEIR-2016 marks the beginning of a 45-day public review period that ends
on March 23, 2016, during which written comments may be directed to the City of Temecula at
the address below.
Please be advised that CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5(f)(1) states that in responding to
comments received for the RDSEIR-2016, the City is not required to respond to the same
comments received during the Draft SEIR (2014) circulation period. Pursuant to CEQA, although
part of the administrative record, previous comments to the Draft SEIR (2014) do not require a
written response in the Final RSEIR, and that new comments related to the RDSEIR-2016 shall
be submitted. Thus, the City of Temecula, as Lead Agency, need only respond to those comments
submitted in response to this RDSEIR-2016. Comments on the proposed project should be
directed to:
Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
City of Temecula
41000 Main Street
Temecula, CA 92590
stuart.fisk@cityoftemecula.org
1-11
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report February 2016
CHAPTER 2
Project Description
This chapter provides a description of the proposed Temecula Valley Hospital HelistopProject
(proposed project), along with a brief description of the existing physical setting of the project
site, required discretionary actions, and objectives of the project.
2.1Introduction
The proposed project consists of changes to the planned helistop location and construction of a
5,000-square-foot storage building on the Temecula Valley Hospital parcel locatedat 31700
Temecula Parkway in the City of Temecula. The projectapplicant, Universal Health Services,
Inc. (UHS), is proposing a Major Modification to change the location of the planned hospital
helistopthat would provide new interim and permanenthelistop locations on the hospital site.
The hospital, as approvedby the City, is being constructed and operated in phases and at build
out would consistof:
A two-tower hospital complex containing approximately 320 beds and offering full
in-patient and out-patient services. Both towers would be five stories high.
Two medical office buildings, one four stories high and the second three stories high.
A cancer center housed in a one-story building.
A fitness rehabilitation center for patients and on-site staff in a one-story building.
A helistopto support helicopter flights to transport seriously ill patients to the hospital or
to another location for further care.
A truck-loading area and facilities plant to provide infrastructure needed to support the
hospital, such as a loading dock, cooling tower, generators, transformers, a fuel tank, and
a bulk oxygen storage area.
A jogging path and horse trail to be constructed north of the fitness center. The horse trail
would also connect existing horse trails in the vicinity of the site.
As described in the 2011 Addendum to the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
(SEIR) for the hospital, construction of the project would occur in six phases, as follows:
2-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
Phase IPhase II
Site Grading(Medical Office Building) MOB 1
Main Entry DriveMOB 1 Parking (326 spaces)
Off-Site Improvements Final Underground WQMP BMP Chambers at
Hospital (140 Beds) Five-Story Tower Southeast Corner of Site
Hospital Parking (434 Spaces)
Horse Trail
Temporary Water Retention Basin at Southeast
Corner of Site, Removed in Phase III
Phase IV
Phase III
Hospital (180 Beds) Five-Story Tower
MOB 2
Hospital Parking (128 Spaces)
MOB 2 Parking (300 Spaces)
Phase VPhase VI
Cancer CenterFitness Center
Cancer Center Parking (50 Spaces)Fitness Center Parking (40 Spaces)
Jogging Trail
Construction of Phase 1,which includes the new 140-bed, five-story hospital, is complete and the
hospital began operations on October 14, 2013.
1
The proposed Major Modification would relocate the City-approved helistop to two new
locations:an interim location for use during preliminary project phases, which would then be
removed when the permanent location is constructed on the roof of the future hospital tower,
during PhaseIV of the project. Operation of the permanent helistop is currently anticipated to
occur in 2022, consistent with the 2011 Major Modification approval (PA10-0194), Condition
No. 27, requiring the applicant to commence construction of the future hospital tower (hospital
bed tower 2) foundation contemplated in Phase IV no later than February 8, 2019. Once
foundation construction commences in 2019, it could take up to approximately 3 years to
construct and open the hospital tower and construct, license, and open the permanent rooftop
helistop.
While the interim helistop will serve as a temporary location until the future hospital tower is
constructed in Phase IV, this Recirculated Draft SEIR (RDSEIR-2016) does not limit its analysis
to temporary short-term effects but instead fully evaluates the interim helistop’s potential impacts
including any future long-term effects in the event that development of the future hospital tower
occurs later than anticipated.
The previous City-approved helistop location would be developed in Phase II, which is to occur
next, with a one-story, 5,000-square-foot storage building that would provide storage space for
1
Heliport Design
According to the FAA, in its advisory circular, a helistop is a term sometimes used to describe a
minimally developed heliport for boarding and discharging passengers or cargo. Inthis case, “passengers” would be
patients and/or medical crew members and “cargo” would be live organs.
2-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
nonhazardous hospital materials such as disaster supplies, “attic stock” for the hospital, and
linens. With the addition of the proposed 5,000-square-foot storage building, the total square
footage of hospital facility would increase to 571,160 square feet (from the 566,160-square-foot
facility that was approved in 2008). The change in location of the helistops, the construction and
operation of the storage building, and the potential impacts related to those project changesare
evaluated within this RDSEIR-2016.
Helistop ApprovalProcess
City-Approved Helistop
The City-approved helistop site has not been through thefull approval processof other agencies
2
that are required to review helistops, which include:
Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) as required by California’s
Public Utilities Code.The City-approved helistop was submitted to ALUC for review.
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics as required by California Code of Regulations Title 21.
Caltrans Aeronautics conducted a preliminary review but did not grant an approval.
Caltrans specified via email that to gain its approval, the applicant would have to either:
Rotate the single proposed flight path clockwise (approximately 36 degrees) to clear
o
the Madera Vista (at that time Summerhouse) multi-family residences to the east,
resulting in a near crosswind condition for pilots on approach or departure; or
Arrange for red obstruction lights to be installed on those buildings (Miller, 2011,
o
included in Appendix A).
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as required by Part 157 of 14 CFR, Federal
Aviation Regulations (FAR). The FAA is required to conduct an airspace study under
FAR Part 157 that results in an “airspace determination letter” expressing no objection
“to the establishment of the proposed landing area.” As part of this process, an inspector
from the FAA’s Riverside Flight Standards District Office visited the site and issued an
airspace determination letter on March 15, 2012, that listed several conditions, including
the addition of a second flight pathin a northwestern direction that would crossdirectly
over the Los Ranchitos neighborhood (Condition d), and removing or trimming the
height of treesthat are not under the jurisdiction of the hospital or theCity (Condition e)
(FAA, 2012, included in Appendix A).These FAA conditions were received after the
City’s approval of the helistop site. Thus, they were unknown and not included in the
City’s consideration of the helistop.
2
HazardsRegulatory Setting
Please refer to Chapter 3.2, , Section 3.2.2, , for additional information on the regulatory
setting for the project.
2-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
Proposed Helistop Modifications (Proposed Project)
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ and FAA’s conditions were determined to be unacceptable due
to potential impacts on off-siteland uses as well as concerns over crosswind safety conditions for
helicopter operations on approach or departure.Therefore, the applicant undertook a site selection
process to find a site that would be acceptable to the aeronauticsagencies.This process resulted
in the proposed project.
The proposed interim helistop site was submitted to the FAA, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’
and Riverside County ALUC. In response, the FAA provided an airspace determination letter,
which stated that the FAA analysis determined that the proposed helistop is acceptable from an
airspace utilization standpoint and use of the helistop would not adversely affect the safe and
efficient use of airspace. The FAA letter concluded that it does not object to the proposed helistop
(FAA, 2013). Also, on February 13, 2014, the Riverside County ALUC found that the proposed
helistop is consistent with the countywide policies of the 2004 Riverside County Airport Land
Use Compatibility Plan. In addition, on June 12, 2013, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics signed
and stamped aHeliport Layout Plan granting “Conditional Plan Approval”for the proposed
helistop (a formal application package cannot be submitted to Caltrans Aeronautics until the City
of Temecula approves the project). All three of these letters are provided in Appendix A.
2.2Project Objectives
The primary objectives of the hospital project as listed in the 2006 EIR and 2008 SEIR are as
follows.
City Objectives
The City’s objectives for the proposed project and the project area as listed in the 2006 EIR and
2008 SEIR are to:
Provide for superior, easily accessible emergency medical services within the City of
Temecula.
Provide for a regional hospital campus,including a hospital facility, medical offices,
cancer center, and fitness rehabilitation center, designed to be an operationally efficient
state-of-the-art facility.
Encourage future development of a regional hospital and related services.
Support development of biomedical, research, and office facilities to diversify
Temecula’s employment base.
Ensure the compatibility of development on the subject site with surrounding uses in
terms of the size and configuration of buildings, use of materials and landscaping, the
location of access routes, noise impacts, traffic impacts, and other environmental
conditions.
Incorporate buffers that minimize the impacts of noise, light, visibility of activity, and
vehicular traffic on surrounding residential uses.
2-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
ApplicantObjectives
The objectives of UHS for the proposed project as listed in the 2006 EIR and 2008 SEIR are to:
Provide high-quality health services to the residents of Temecula and surrounding
communities.
Provide a regional hospital facility that includes standard hospital services, with
outpatient care, rehabilitation, and medical offices.
Provide a regional hospital facility designed to be an operationally efficient, state-of-the-
art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors.
Provide medical offices, a cancer center,and fitness rehabilitation centeradjacent to the
hospital facility to meet the needs of doctors and patients who requireready access to the
hospital for medical procedures.
Proposed ProjectObjectives
The proposed relocation of the City-approved helistop is consistent with and furthers the project
objectives listed above. Specifically, the proposed heliport locations would provide for superior,
easily accessible, operationally efficient,state-of-the-art emergency medical facilities and
services within the City of Temeculathat help meet the medical needs of the region. The
proposed heliport facilities would provide hospital doctors and patients enhancedaccessibility to
state-of-the art medical procedures at other regionalhospitalsor specialized hospital facilities. In
addition, the proposed helistop locations would further the project objectives of providing buffers
that minimize the impacts of helicopter related noise, light, and visibility of activity on
surrounding residential uses and ensuring the compatibility of development on the hospital site
with surrounding uses in terms of minimizing potential hazards/safety impacts.
The proposed 5,000-square-foot storage building would be developed at the helistop location
previously approved by the City, and is an ancillary structure that would assist with efficient daily
operations of the hospital. The storage building is designed to be architecturally consistent with
the main hospital building and would be consistent with project objectives related to providing
compatible development between the project site and surrounding uses.
2.3Project Location and Site Characteristics
Project Location
The project site(Temecula Valley Hospital)is located at 31700 Temecula Parkway in the City of
Temecula. The site is located on the north side of Temecula Parkway, south of De Portola Road
Figure 2-1
and approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road, as shown in .Regional access to
the project site is provided by Interstate-15 (I-15) and Temecula Parkway. The site is 2miles east
of I-15.
2-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
PROJECT
SITE
02
Miles
Xiqigype Gmx} Fsyrhev}
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: County of Riverside, 2010
Figure 2-1
Regional Location Map
2. Project Description
Project Site Characteristics
The Temecula Valley Hospitalsite comprises 35.31 acres of land that is currently being used for
operation of Phase 1 of the hospital. Existing development on the site includes a five-story
hospital tower, on-site driveways, parking lots, and infrastructure for all master planned buildings
on the site. Phase 1 of the hospital began operations on October 14, 2013.
The existing land uses that surround the hospital include commercial and single-family residences
to the south (across Temecula Parkway); single-family residences to the north (along De Portola
Road); professional office andcommercial uses to the west; and multi-family residential, office,
and commercial uses to the east. Temecula Creek is located approximately 1,000 feet south of the
Figure 2-2
project site. A project vicinity map is provided as .
2.4Proposed MajorModification
The project proposes a Major Modification to the planned helistop facilities in response to FAA
and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics regulations, safety factors, and recent residential
development adjacent to the hospital site. The Major Modification would relocate the previously
City-approved helistop to two new locations—an interim location for use during preliminary
project phases and a permanent location on the roof of a future hospital tower when it is
constructed during PhaseIV. As provided previously in Section 2.1, development of the future
hospital tower would occur in Phase IV, after completion of the MOB 1 and MOB 2 buildings
and the associated parking facilities. A helistop differs from a heliport in that it is not a permanent
base for air ambulance vehicles. There would be no fueling, service, long-term parking, or storage
of helicopters or related equipment at the site.
In addition, a single-story, 5,000-square-foot storage building would be developed in Phase II,
which is to occur next,in the northeastern portion of the project site at the previouslyCity-
Figure 2-3
approved helistop location. shows the location of the proposed helistop and storage
building. The storage building would be an ancillary structure that would assist with efficient
daily operations of the hospital by providing storage space for non-hazardous hospital materials
such as disaster supplies, “attic stock” for the hospital, and linens. With the addition of the
proposed 5,000-square-foot storage building, the total square footage of the hospital facility
would increase to 571,160 square feet (from the 566,160-square-foot facility that was approved
by the City in 2008). The storage building is designed to be architecturally consistent with the
existing and planned hospital facilities. All other components of the hospital project have been
previously approved by the City and were evaluated in the 2006 EIR, 2008 SEIR, or 2011
Addendum (described in Chapter 1, Introduction).
Helistop Relocation
Figure 2-4
As shown in ,the City-approved project includes a 60-foot by 60-foot helistop located
near the northeast corner of the hospital (approximately 100 feet from the eastern property line),
which would have a single flight path into and out of the hospital site. However, this design does
not meet current FAA and Caltrans Aeronautics criteria.
2-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
130652
.
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR
PROJECT SITEPROJECT SITE
AA
444444444444
44444444
2. Project Description
Caltrans Aeronautics conducted a preliminary review of the City-approvedhelistop, and
determined that the single flight pathis required to be rotated clockwise (approximately
36 degrees) to clear the Madera Vista apartments, or that red obstruction lights are required to be
installed on the Madera Vista apartment buildings. In addition, the FAA reviewed the City-
approved helistop and determined that it requires a second flight path in a northwestern direction
that would cross directly over the Los Ranchitos neighborhood and removing or trimming the
height of trees that are located within the drainage adjacent to the hospital. Any work in the
drainage area, including tree trimming or removal, would require approvals and/or permits from
county, state, and federal resource agencies.
The City and hospital determined that the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ and FAA’s
conditions were unacceptable due to potential impacts on off-site land uses as well as concerns
over crosswind safety conditions for helicopter flights on approach or departure. As a result, the
helistop facility has been proposed to be relocated to satisfy both FAA and Caltrans Aeronautics
Division requirements and to reduce conflicts with adjacent development.
Because the hospital project is phased, two helistops would be developed, includingan interim
helistop and a permanent helistop. As shown on Figure 2-4, the interim helistop location would
be in the western portion of the project site toward the professional office and commercial uses to
the westof the site. The interim location would be within a landscaped area to the west of the
parking lot on the west side of the hospital tower. This location is approximately 300 feet
northeast of Rancho Pueblo Road and 450 feet north of Temecula Parkway. Pursuant to the FAA
obstruction clearance criteria enforced by Caltrans Aeronautics, the helistop in this location
would be developed on top of a 5.5-foot-high berm from which helicopters would land and take
off.
In Phase IVof the project, after completion of the MOB 1 and MOB 2 buildings and the
associated parking facilities, the helistop would be relocated tothe roofof a future second
hospital tower (Bed Tower #2), which would be approximately 350 feet north of Temecula
Parkway, east of the main hospital entrance.Once the permanent helistop is operational, the
interim helistop would be removed.
The two helistop locations, both the interim and the permanent, are designed in compliancewith
FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics flight path and obstruction clearance requirements, to
minimize impacts on neighboring residences (specifically the Madera Vista apartments to the
east, Los Ranchitos neighborhood single-family homes to the north, and Country Glen
neighborhood single-family residences to the south), and to provide operational functionality for
the delivery of hospital services. In addition, each helistop site (interim and permanent)would
have two flight paths to meet the FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics requirements. The
prevailing wind direction in the project region is to the east, except during Santa Ana wind
conditions that blow westward. Helicopters typically approach and land heading into the wind for
safety and performance reasons; hence, helicopters approaching the hospital helistop would
generally approach from the east, flying westbound into the wind to land at the helistop, and take
off also in a westbound direction. During Santa Ana or westbound wind conditions, which occur
2-11
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
occasionally in the project region, helicopters would approach from the west flying eastbound to
land at the site, and take off also in an eastbound direction.
HelistopDesigns
Pursuant to Caltrans Division of Aeronautics obstruction-clearance requirements for helistops, the
interim helistop would be developed on top of a 5.5-foot-high berm and would provide a concrete
circular 48-foot-diameter touchdown and liftoff (TLOF) area from which helicopters would land
Figure 2-5
and take off. As shown on , Helistop Design Characteristics, the helistop would have
an 87-foot-diameter final approach and takeoff area (FATO) and a surrounding 16-foot-wide
safety area, which would both be centered on the TLOFareatoensure that objects remain out of
the TLOF andFATO area boundaries (except for maximum 2-inch perimeter lighting).
The standard hospital helistop identifier, a red-colored 10-foot by 6-foot, 8-inch underlined “H”
would be painted on a white cross within a red-colored circle denoting the location of the helistop
from the viewpoint of helicopter pilots.White legendswould be painted within the red circle,
including “TVH,” the abbreviation for the Temecula Valley Hospital, and “PVT,” which denotes
private use, as the helistopwould be privately owned and operated by UHS. Additional required
markings would include a 12-inch-wide solid-white perimeter stripe and a maximum helicopter
overall length marking to inform approaching pilots of the size limitation of the helistop.
Portland Cement Concrete materials would be used for construction of ground-level surfacesfor
the interim location. Theinterim helistop would be connectedto a 4-foot-wide Americans with
Disabilities Act–compliant pedestrian walkway located adjacent to a 15-foot-wide vehicular
driveway that would access an internal road on the west side of the project site.In addition, the
helistop would be surrounded by a 5-foot-tall security fence.
The permanent helistop would be located on the roof of the future hospital tower during Phase IV
of the project. The design of the helistop would be similar to the interim location but would
consist of a 48-foot by 48-foot square TLOF where helicopters would land and take off. Markings
would be identical to the interim helistop except that it would also include a 12,000-pound weight
limitation marking to inform approaching pilots of the limitations.
Lighting
The interim helistop would require installation of lighting fixtures for nighttime operations. In
addition to the existing hospital building and parking lot lighting for hospital operations, the
hospital has red obstruction lights installed on light standards in the hospital parking lot, a three-
colored (green, white, and yellow) heliport beacon light, and a lighted windcone installed on the
hospital building to provide pilots with wind information during landings and takeoffs.
Implementation of the proposed project would add lighting that would include 12 green flush-
mounted perimeter lights surrounding the TLOF, five green lead-in lights aligned with the
primary approach path from the northeast, and a 16-foot-tall lighted windcone located northwest
of the helistop. Lighting at the helistop (perimeter lights, lead-in lights,and local lighted
windcone) would be activated only for nighttime landings or takeoffs and is proposed in
accordance with Caltrans Division of Aeronautics requirements.
2-12
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
The permanent helistop would include similar lighting except that lead-in lights would not be
needed on the rooftop facility. The red obstruction lights on parking lot light standards and other
lighting associated with the interim helistop would be removed once operation of the permanent
helistop commences.
Hospital Storage Building
Figure 2-6
As shown in , Hospital Storage Building Elevations, the new storage building would
be square in shape and would total 5,000 square feet in area. The structure would consist of a
single story reaching a total of 22 feet high with the inclusion of a cornice that would create
architectural consistency with the other hospital buildings. The exterior facades of the storage
building would include the same stucco siding material and beige color palette of the main
hospital building in order to maintain design compatibility throughout the hospital campus. In
addition, exterior entrance and security lighting around the storage building would be consistent
with that of the rest of the hospital facility, and would be limited, shielded, or directed downward.
The storage building would be used to store non-hazardous materials such as disaster supplies,
“attic stock” for the hospital, and linens. The storage building would not use any machinery or
equipment, except for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment that is similar to those
used on other hospital buildings. In addition, the storage building would not operate in such a
manner that would require or result in additional traffic trips beyond those generated by the
overall hospital facility.
Operation
The hospital is operational 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Helicopter operations associated with
the hospital would be intermittent and take place only to transport seriously ill or injured patients
to the hospital or from the Temecula Valley Hospital to another hospital with more intensive care
facilities. Under normal (prevailing) wind conditions, helicopters would approach the helistops
from the northeast, land, pick-up (or, rarely, drop-off) a patient, and depart toward the southwest.
During Santa Ana or other easterly winds, helicopters would operate in the reverse direction.
The noise related to the helicopter would last approximately 5 minutes for landing and 5 minutes
for takeoff.Typically,the helicopter would occupy the helistop for 30 to 60 minutes, between
arrival and departure, during which the helicopter engine is not running.
A helicopter operation is defined as a single landing or takeoff; hence, one transport includes two
operations (an arrival operation and a departure operation). Since opening of the hospital, the
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) landing site has experienced, on average, approximately
seven helicopter operations per month. This average consists of as few as zero operations (once in
March 2014) and as many as 14 operations (once in May 2014) in a month. The number of
helicopter operations at the interim and permanent locations is anticipated to be similar to the
existing EMS landing site.
2-13
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
Based on current operations at the EMS landing site and future anticipated demand, it is
conservatively projected that, on average, approximately eight helicopter operations (four arrival
and four departure operations) would occur per month over a 12-month period. This would total
approximately 96 operations per year. Title 21 of the California State Aeronautics Regulations
and FAR Part 150 require that the CNEL contours be based on the annual-average day operations
over a 365-day period. As with the existing EMS landing site, however, the actual frequency of
operations will vary depending on the timing of medical emergencies and needed transport for
critical care.
It is anticipated that two emergency medical helicopter operators, Mercy Air and REACH Air
Medical Services, flying Airbus Helicopters EC135 would usethe helistop to transport patients.
2-14
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
2.5Discretionary Approvals
The Major Modification for the helistop relocation involves discretionary approvals fromthe City
of Temecula, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, FAA, and Riverside County ALUC. The
anticipated actions and approvalsrelated to the proposed project are listed below.
AgencyAction
City of Temecula
Development Plan Major Modification including design
and site review.
City of Temecula
CUP Major Modification for proposed interim and
permanent helistopsand storage building.
City of Temecula
City Council approval of project and certification of SEIR.
State of California Office of Statewide Health Planning and
Review and issuance of construction permits for
Development (OSHPD)
windcone lighting, 3-color helistop beacon, and red
obstruction lights for the proposed interim locationhave
occurred. Full OSHPD review and approval for the future
hospital tower and permanent helistop locationwould
occur in the future.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Review of airspace study and issuance of an airspace
determination letter, consistent with Part 157 of the
Federal Aviation Regulationswas issued for the interim
helistop on July 3, 2013and extended on September 4,
2015; and the permanent helistop would undergo design
review during the future hospital tower design phase.
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
Review and approval of proposed helistop and issuance
of Helistop Site Approval Permit, which represents
agreement withthe design concept and authorizes
helistop construction. The Helistop Permit follows a post-
construction inspection and authorizes start-up of flight
operations. Interim helistop received Conditional Plan
Approval on June 12,2013, and the permanent helistop
would undergo design review during the future hospital
tower design phase. Additionally, Caltrans Division of
Aeronautics makes annual on-siteinspections of
hospital helistops throughout the state to ensure
continued compliance with its design requirements.
The California’s Public Utilities Code Section 21662.4. (a) states that emergency aircraft flights
for medical purposes by law enforcement, firefighting, military, or other persons who provide
emergency flights for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances adopted by a city,
county, or city and county, whether general law or chartered, that restrict flight departures and
arrivals to particular hours of the day or night, that restrict the departure or arrival of aircraft
based upon the aircraft's noise level, or that restrict the operation of certain types of aircraft
(emphasis added to project related code text). Pursuant to this, the City cannot restrict helicopter
activity at the hospital for medical purposes.
2-17
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
2.6Cumulative Projects
Section 15130 of the CEQA Guidelinesrequires that an EIR address cumulative impacts of a
project when the project’s incremental effect would be cumulatively considerable. “Cumulatively
considerable” means that “the incremental effects of an individual project are considerable when
viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the
effects of probable future projects” (CEQA GuidelinesSection 15065(c)). A cumulative effect is
not deemed considerable if the effect would be essentially the same whether the proposed project is
implemented or not.
Section 15355 of the CEQA Guidelinesstates that “cumulative impacts can result from
individually minor but collectively significant projects taking place over a period of time.” A
cumulative impact is not considered significant if the impact can be mitigated to below the level
of significance through mitigation, including providing improvements and/or contributing funds
through fee-payment programs. The EIR must examine “reasonable options for mitigating or
avoiding any significant cumulative effects of a proposed project” (CEQA GuidelinesSection
15130(a)(3) and 15130(b)(5)).
According to Section15130 of the CEQA Guidelines,the discussion of cumulative effects “... need
not provide as great a detail as is provided of the effects attributable to the project alone. The
discussion should be guided by the standards of practicality and reasonableness.” The evaluation of
cumulative impacts is required by Section15130 to be based on either:
(A)a list of past, present, and probable future projects producing related or cumulative
impacts, including, if necessary, those projects outside the control of the agency, or
(B) a summary of projections contained in an adopted general plan or related
planning document, or in a prior environmental document which has been adopted
or certified, which described or evaluated regional or area-wide conditions
contributing to the cumulative effect. Any such planning document shall be
referencedand made available to the public at a location specified by the Lead
Agency.
Cumulative projects include recently completed projects, projects currently under construction,
and future projects currently in development. The potential for projects to have acumulative
impact depends on both geographic location andproject schedule.
The proposed project area is located in the southern portion of the Cityof Temecula. The
potential for specific project-generated impacts to contribute to a significant cumulative impact
would occur if the impacts are located within the same generalized geographic area. This
geographic area varies depending upon the resource area being evaluated (aesthetics, hazards,
noise, etc.) and the geographic extent of the potential impact. For example, the geographic area
associated with noise impacts would be limited to areas directly affected by noise generated by
the proposedproject in conjunction with the identified cumulative projects.
2-18
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
Table 2-1
lists current and proposed projects that could potentially contribute to cumulative
Figure 2-7
impacts within the project area.Locations of cumulative projects are shown in ,
Cumulative Projects.
TABLE 2-1
PLANNED AND APPROVEDPROJECTS IN THE PROJECT AREA
Figure No. Planning Development
ReferenceJurisdictionTypeDescriptionStatus
1 City of TemeculaResidentialA Tentative Tract Map application to create 7 single-Proposed
family residential lots located approximately 15,000 feet
southof Santiago Road and east of Ynez Road.
2 City of TemeculaInstitutionalA Major Modification application for the UHS Temecula Phase I
Regional Hospital to modify the phasing of the project, Complete
reducing the bed count from 178 to 140 in phase one and (140 beds)
to build out the project to 320 beds by the year 2026. The
project also includes other minor site plan revisions and a
change in the hospital building construction from concrete
to framed construction. The project is located on the north
side of Temecula Parkway, approximately 650 feet west
of Margarita Road.
3 City of TemeculaOfficeA Development Plan application to allow for the Under
construction of three office buildings totaling 37,926 Construction
square feet within PDO-8 located at the southwest corner
of De Portola Road and Margarita Road.
4 City of TemeculaCommercial/Redevelopment of the existing 305-acre site into a Resort Proposed
ResidentialCommunity by expanding the hotel with 99 new rooms,
expanding the conference center, adding a spa, and
adding a private residential component. The golf course
would be re-designed by eliminating 9 holes and creating
an 18-hole championship golf course. Private residential
land uses would be introduced that would include 409
dwelling units, with a mix of single family detached
homes, townhomes and stacked flat units. The proposed
Project would re-align and improve portions of Rainbow
Canyon Road along the property frontage to comply with
the City of Temecula's engineering standards for radii and
site distance.
5 City of TemeculaResidentialA Development Plan to construct 74 single family homes Under
on a condominium at the southeast corner of Peach Tree Construction
Street and Deer Hollow Way.
6 City of TemeculaResidentialSpecific Plan by Ambient Communities referred to as Proposed
"Altair," is located on 270 acres in the southwesterly
portion of the City of Temecula west of Old Town.The
proposed plan includes up to 1,750 residential units, an
elementary school, neighborhood commercial, a
clubhouse, civic site, parks, trails, and hillside
preservation.The project also includes off-site
improvements for public infrastructure including,
construction of the Western Bypass Corridor bridge over
Murrieta Creek, road widening of Vincent Moraga,
construction of Main Street north of Pujol, and off-site
sewer, water and dry utility extensions. This project
includes a General Plan Amendment, Subdivision Map,
Development Agreement.
7 City of TemeculaCommercialA Development Plan to construct a 4,700 square foot Approved
Navy Federal Credit Union building with three drive-thru
lanes located approximately 150 feet south of Temecula
Parkway, on the west side of Jedediah Smith Road.
2-19
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2. Project Description
Figure No. Planning Development
ReferenceJurisdictionTypeDescriptionStatus
8 City of TemeculaCommercialADevelopment Plan for the construction of two structures Complete
totaling 54,860 square feet for medical offices generally
located on the north side of Temecula Parkway,
approximately 400 feet east of the Jedediah Smith and
Temecula Parkway intersection.
9 City of TemeculaCommercialA Development Plan to construct a two-story, 11,982 Under
square foot medical office building on a 0.92 acre vacant Construction
lot located at the northwest corner of Temecula Parkway
and Dona Lynora.
10 City of TemeculaCommercialA Development Plan to construct a 29,211 square foot, Under
two-story professional office building located on the west Construction
side of Avenida de Missiones, approximately 200 feet
south of Temecula Parkway.
11 City of TemeculaResidentialA Multi-family residential Development Plan to construct Complete
the 288 apartment units at the northwest corner of
Campanula Way and Meadows Parkway.
12 City of TemeculaResidentialA Development Plan to construct 186 single-family Developed
attached units (90 rowhome units and 96 motorcourt and
units) at the southwest corner of De Portola Road and Operating
Meadows Parkway.
13 City of TemeculaResidentialA Development Plan to construct a 140 unit attached Under
residential project, including two story townhomes and Construction
three story walk-up flats, also with a pool and clubhouse
for project residents, located on approximately 7 acres at
the southernmost point of Pujol Street, on the west side of
the street.
14 City of TemeculaResidentialA Tentative Tract Map revision for 59 detached Approved
condominium units located at the northeast corner of
Rancho Vista Road and Mira Loma Road.
15 City of TemeculaCommercialA Major Modification to Development Plan to construct a Developed
one-story, 12,554 square foot outpatient surgery center and
building on a 1.01 acre vacant lot located at the northeast Operating
corner of Temecula Parkway and Rancho Pueblo Road.
SOURCE: City of Temecula Planning Department, 2016.
2-20
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
M
E
P
K
CHAPTER 3
Environmental Setting, Impacts, and
Mitigation Measures
Through preparation of anInitial Study, the City determined that the proposed project may have a
significant impact related to aesthetics, hazards, and noise, and should be evaluated in an
Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (SEIR). In addition, the Initial Study determined that
all other California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)-related environmental topic areas would
not be impactedto such a degree as to require analysis in this RDSEIR-2016. Therefore,
environmental impact areas evaluated within this RDSEIR-2016 are limited to aesthetics,
hazards, and noise, as further described throughout Chapter 3.
3.1Aesthetics
The purpose of this section is to identify the existing aesthetics (visual quality) environment in
the project vicinity; analyze compliance with the City of Temecula General Plan, zoning code,
and ordinances; identify potential significant impacts created by the proposed project;and
recommend mitigation measures to reduce the significance of impacts.
3.1.1 Environmental Setting
Existing Conditions
The Temecula Valley Hospitalsite comprises 35.31 acres of land that is currently developed with
Phase 1 of the hospital. This includes a five-story hospital tower, on-site driveways,parking lots,
and infrastructure for all master planned buildings on the site. The project site fronts Temecula
Parkway within a developed area of the City of Temecula. The site terrain is relatively flat, with a
gentle slope toward De Portola Road. The elevation at the center of the site is approximately
1,147feet above mean sea level (amsl), and the elevation at De Portola Road is approximately
1,065 feet amsl. North of De Portola Road, the terrain transitions to rolling hillsides, with the
highest elevation above De Portola Road in the project vicinity rising to approximately 1,223 feet
amsl, which providesviews of the site,south Temecula, and the Palomar Mountains in the
background.
Low-density single-family residential development exists within the rolling hills to the north.
Multi-family residential is located to the east of the project site. Medical office buildings exist to
the southeast, near the corner of Temecula Parkway andMargaritaRoad, and office buildings are
also located to the west of the project site. In addition, retail commercial and single-family
residential uses exist across Temecula Parkway to the south of the project site.The distance from
3.1-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.1 Aesthetics
the interim helistop site to the nearest residential property line is approximately 225feet, and the
distance from the permanent helistop to the nearest residential unit (the Madera Vista apartments)
is approximately 305feet.
The existing hospital uses on the project site provide nighttime lighting from exterior building
and parking lot lighting, lighting emanating from hospital windows and doors, and lighting
associated with hospital signage.The existing hospital uses low-pressure sodium outdoor lighting
fixtures, which is consistent with Ordinance 655 and City of Temecula Design Guidelines and
Development Code.
The areas adjacent to the project site currently generate nighttime lighting and glare from exterior
lighting on residences, office buildings, and retail commercial areas. In addition, parking lot
security lighting, and lighting from cars traveling along Temecula Parkway, De Portola Road,
Margarita Road, Dartolo Road, and Dona Lynora currently generate a moderate level of lighting
and glare, which is typical for a developed area within the city.
3.1.2 Regulatory Setting
City of Temecula Outdoor Lighting Regulations – Ordinance 655
The City of Temecula has adopted Riverside County’s Outdoor Lighting Regulations (Ordinance
655), which restrict nighttime lighting for areas within a 15-mile radius and a 45-mile radius of
the Palomar Observatory. The project site is located within the 45-mile radius (Zone B) of the
Observatory. Within Zone B, the use of most types of outdoor lighting is prohibited after
11:00 p.m., and outdoor lighting must be shielded and focused on the object to be illuminated.
Decorative lighting is allowed; however, decorative lighting is required to be shut off by
11:00 p.m. By shutting off decorative lighting at 11:00 p.m., the amount of light and/or glare is
reduced during late evening hours, thus preserving the visibility of the night sky for scientific
research at the Mount Palomar Observatory. The ordinance also establishes the type of lighting
that may be used in Zone B, such as low-pressure sodium lighting. The ordinance provides
exemptions for holiday decorative lights and nonconforming uses.
City of Temecula Design Guidelines
The Cityof Temecula has adopted Citywide Design Guidelines, which include the following that
are related to the project:
a.All lighting shall be shielded to minimize glare upon neighboring properties. The shield
shall be painted to match the surface to which it is attached.
b.Light fixtures shall be architecturally compatible with the building design.
c.All building entrances shall be well-lit.
d.Parking lots and access shall be illuminated with a minimum of 1 footcandle of lighting.
e.Walkways and paseos shall be illuminated with a minimum of 1 footcandle to ensure safe
nighttime conditions.
3.1-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.1 Aesthetics
f.Light fixtures shall be sited, directed, and/or shielded to prevent spot lighting, glare, or
light spillage beyond property lines.
g.Lighting fixtures shall be shown on the landscaping plans.
h.The lighting of building elements and trees is an effective and attractive lighting
technique that is encouraged; however, light sources for wall washing and tree lighting
should be hidden.
3.1.3 Impact Assessment
Methodology
Thisaesthetics analysisis based on consideration of the following: (1) the extent of change
related to the proposed project from public vantage points; (2) the degree of contrast and
compatibilitybetweenproposed project elements and the existing surroundings; and (3) proposed
project conformance with policies and regulations.
In addition, nighttime lighting impacts would be significant if lightsubstantiallyinterferes with,
or intrudes into,sensitive land uses (including residences), or substantially impacts views in the
area. Glare would be considered a significant impact if it results in daytime interferences with
activities at sensitive land uses or public roadways where drivers can be temporarily blinded by
glare, thus causing a safety concern.
Thresholds of Significance
According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, the proposed project could have a potentially
significant impact with respect to aesthetics if it would:
Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista.
Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway.
Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its
surroundings.
Create a new source of substantiallight or glare which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area.
As determinedin the Notice of Preparation/Initial Study (Appendix A), implementation of the
proposed project would not result in impacts related to scenic vistas, scenic resources within a
state scenic highway, or with the visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings.
Therefore, no further analysis of these topics is included.
Light and Glare
Implementation of the proposed project would install a 48-foot-diameterinterim helistopin the
western portion of the project site toward the professional office and commercial uses to the west
of the site. Pursuant to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Caltrans Aeronautics
3.1-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.1 Aesthetics
requirements, the interim helistop would consist of a concrete platform that would be constructed
on a 5.5-foot-high berm from which helicopters would land and take off and wouldrequire
installation of lighting fixturesfor nighttime operations.In addition to the existing red obstruction
lights onparking lot light standards, red obstruction lights,athree-colored (green, white, and
yellow) heliport beacon light, and alighted windcone are currently installed on the hospital
building. The interim helistop would also have 12 green flush-mounted perimeter lights
surrounding the touchdown and liftoff (TLOF) area andfive green lead-in lights aligned with the
primary approach path. In addition, a 16-foot-tall lighted windcone would be located northwest of
the helistop. The interim helistop perimeter lights would be on for approximately 20 minutes
immediately prior to and during landing and takeoff events. The obstruction lights that are
currently in place at the hospital are on from dusk to dawn, and will remain on a dusk-dawn
schedule when the permanent helistop is in place.The helistoplighting would be on
intermittently; only prior to and during nighttime landings or takeoffs. The total number of
helistop operations (landings and take-offs)is anticipated to be eight times per month, which
could occur anytime of the day or night.
The permanent helistop would be located on the roof of the planned five-story hospital tower
during Phase IV of the project. The design of the helistop would be similar to the interim location
but would consist of a 48-foot by 48-foot square TLOF where helicopters would land and take
off. The permanent helistop would include lighting that is similar to the interim helistop, except
that lead-in lights would not be needed on the rooftop facility and thehave perimeter lights would
be on a dusk to dawn schedule. The red obstruction lights on parking lot light standards and other
lighting associated with the interim helistop would be removed once operation of the permanent
helistop commences.All of the directional and obstruction lights would be implemented in
compliance with FAA and Caltrans Aeronautics design regulations.
Helicopters using both the interim and permanent helistops would use typical running lights,
which include red and green position lights onthe sides of the aircraft and anti-collisionlights to
indicate the helicopter’s position. Helicopters would also use a landing light to light the helistop
during landing. This light is located in the front of the helicopter and is turned on by the pilot at
nighttime upon approach, and would be directed tothe helistop to support a safe landing. Under
prevailing wind conditions, helicopters would approach from the east, flying west into the wind.
As shown on Figure 2-4 in the Project Description,for the interim condition, this approach would
cross a large portion of the site prior to the helistop, and it islikely that pilots would turn on the
landing light while over the hospital site. Under Santa Ana wind conditions, helicopters would
fly, and descend, over Temecula Parkway, office and parking lot uses, and a portion of the
hospital site prior to reaching the helistop. Under both conditions, the landing lights during the
approach would be directed forward toward the helistop TLOFlightingthat identifies the location
of the helistop. Similarly, during use of the permanent helistop, the landing light would be
focused on the top of the hospital tower. The height of the permanent helistop location would
further reduce lighting on non-hospital ground-level uses. Under all conditions, a helicopter’s
landing light would focus forward at an angle toward the helistop, not downward upon non-
hospital uses, and would not spillover onto adjacent uses. As described, the distance from the
interim helistop site to the nearest residential property line is approximately 225 feet,and the
3.1-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.1 Aesthetics
distance from the permanent helistop to the nearest residential unit(the Madera Vista apartments)
is approximately 305feet.Because of this distance, and the focused lighting within the urban
environment, the use of standard helicopter lights during periodic helicopter flights would not
result in significant lighting impacts.
In addition to the lighting described previously, lighting that is similar to the existing parking lot,
walkway, and security lighting would be used at night to facilitate safe transport of patients
between the interim helistop location and the hospital. The permanent helistop would use
footlights along the walkway between the hospital elevator and helistopdeck surface. The
lighting used to safely transport patients to and from the helistop locations would also be
intermittent and would be activated after thehelicopter has landed and turned offbefore its
departure. This lighting would be directed to thespecific areas wheresafe pass-through is needed
and would be oriented to avoid off-site light spillover onto adjacent properties, consistent with the
City’s lighting standards.
The proposed helistoplightingwhich is not regulated by the FAA or Caltrans Aeronautics would
be regulated by the City of Temecula and comply with the City’s Design Guidelines, Municipal
Code, and Ordinance 655. The Development Code and Design Guidelines require minimizing
illumination levels onto adjacent property lines. Lighting is required to be directed down and
fully shielded to reduce the amount of glare into the night sky and onto adjacent parcels. The
applicant would utilize low-pressure sodium outdoor lighting fixtures, which is consistent with
Ordinance 655.
While some lights related to the interim helistopmay be visible from nearby residences and other
land uses, the landscaping around the hospital site, such as the tall trees adjacent to the eastern
boundary of the project and on residential parcels to the north and northwest, reduces the
potential for spillover of light onto adjacent properties. In addition, the shielding of light from
appropriate installation of light fixtures limits the potential of light spillover. Because the helistop
lighting would only be used for approximately 20 minutes immediately prior to and during
nighttime landings or takeoffs, the lights could be visible approximately eight times per month,
should all flights occur at nighttime. These lights would be similar to, and blend into, the existing
on-site hospital lighting and the commercial, office, residential, and street-related lighting in the
project vicinity. Because the lighting would be on intermittently and would be similar to existing
lighting in the developed area, lighting related to the interim helistop would not substantially
affect viewers’ nighttime vision.
The lights related to the permanent helistop would be located on the top of the five-story hospital
tower building, and would be low-level lighting that is consistent with the City’s Design
Guidelines and Outdoor Lighting Ordinance that would be directed toward the interior of the roof
top to avoid casting shadows onto adjacent properties. Lead-in lights would not be required or
installed at the permanent rooftop helistop facility; however, the rooftop helistopperimeter lights
would be on a dusk-to-dawn schedule. Some of the rooftop lighting from the permanent helistop
could be visible from nearby residences and other land uses, but would be consistent with the
3.1-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.1 Aesthetics
existing hospital lighting and lighting from the surrounding land uses, and would not affect
viewers’ nighttime vision.
In addition, lighting associated with the proposed storage building would be minimal, consisting
of entranceway lighting and security lighting mounted on the building as well as possible
footlights on the pathway leading to the building from the main hospital building. As with the
helistoplocations, lighting for the proposed storage building would be installed in compliance
with theCity’s Design Guidelines, Municipal Code, and Ordinance 655, which requires
illumination levels onto adjacent property linesbe minimal.Hence, lighting from the security
building would consist of low-pressure sodium outdoor lighting fixtures that are directed down
and/or shielded to reduce the amount of glare into the nighttimesky and ontoadjacent parcels,
which is consistent with Ordinance 655.
In conclusion, with the limited operation of lighting for helicopter landings and departures during
nighttime hours, consistency with FAA, Caltrans Aeronautics, and City of Temecula lighting
regulations, lighting associated with the proposed helistop would not substantially interfere with,
or intrude into,adjacent land uses, or substantially impact nighttime vision.Furthermore, with the
limited lighting required for the proposed storage building that would also comply with the City’s
lighting regulations, impacts related to light would be less than significant.
The proposed project would not introduce a substantial source of glare to the project areathat
would affect views in the area because the project would construct the interim and permanent
helistops and storage building using typical building materials ( concrete, stucco, steel, paint,
etc.), which would not create substantial daytime glare. Sources of daytime glare could include
the helicopter while on the interim helistop, which would be developed a 5.5-foot-high berm.
However, the helistop would only accommodate one helicopter that would be temporarily parked
on the helistop between patient loading or unloading approximately eight times per month.
Because ofthe limited and temporary source of potential glare from implementationof the
proposed project, impacts related to glare would be less than significant.
Significance Determination
: Less than significant
3.1.4 Cumulative Impacts
The cumulative aesthetics study area for the proposed project is the viewshed that the project lies
within.This includes the areas adjacent to the project site that can view the project. The project
site is developed with hospital uses that generate light, and the vicinity of the project is fully
developed with residential, commercial, and other medical or hospital related uses; and as
described above, the proposed project would have a limited contribution to the existing nighttime
lighting, and with compliance to City lighting requirements, would not result in significant
impacts related to nighttime lighting and glare.
In general, cumulative development, including the existing, proposed, approved, and reasonably
foreseeable projects listed in Table 2-1, would also result in increased nighttime lighting and
daytime glare. Compliance with the City’s Municipal Code and Design Guidelines would limit
3.1-6
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.1 Aesthetics
glare and spillover lighting that would be generated by new development throughout the City.
Therefore, while development of the project and the cumulative projects would generate an
increase in nighttime lighting and daytime glare, future individual development projects would be
required to conform to City requirements that would have a mitigating effect on light and glare.
The closest cumulative projects include development of a new medical office building located at
the northwest corner of Temecula Parkway and Dona Lynora (identified as 9 on Figure 2-7), and
development of three office buildings at the southwest corner of De Portola Road and Margarita
Road (identified as 3 on Figure 2-7). These projects have been approved by the City and would
include nighttime lighting features typical of office buildings, including security lighting on the
exterior of the building, entranceway and signage lighting, and parking lot lighting. As with the
proposed project, the cumulative projects would be required to be consistent with the City’s
Design Guidelines, Municipal Code, and Ordinance 655, which includes requirements to
minimize illumination levels onto adjacent property lines, direct lighting down and fully shielded
to reduce the amount of glare into the night sky and onto adjacent parcels, and the use of low-
pressure sodium outdoor lighting fixtures. As a result, implementation of the lighting and glare
generated from the City-compliant lighting at the already developed hospital site that would
include the new interim and permanent helistop and storage building when combined with the
past, present, and reasonably foreseeable cumulative projects would not contribute to a
cumulatively significantimpact related to lighting and glare.Cumulative impacts are less than
significant.
Significance Determination
: Less than significant
3.1-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2Hazards
This section describes the potential adverse impacts on public safetyand the environment from
hazards that could result from the proposed Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project (proposed
project). The analysis is focused on potential risks related to operation of the helistop and
surrounding uses. An overview of the regulatory framework related to helistop facilitiesis
followed by an analysis of potential impacts.
3.2.1Environmental Setting
Existing Conditions
The hospital site comprises 35.31 acres of land that is currently being used for operation of
Phase1 of the hospital. Existing development on the site includes a five-story hospital tower,
on-site driveways, parking lots, infrastructure for all master planned buildings on the site. The
helistopthat was approved by the City with the hospital projectis notyetdeveloped.However,
the hospital currently uses the City-approved helistop site as an Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) landing site when necessary. To ensure safety during these procedures, the City of
Temecula Fire and Police Departments coordinated with the hospital to secure the helicopter
landing area.
As described later inthe Regulatory Setting section,the California Code of Regulations (CCR)
Title 21 Section 3527(g) statesthat a site (such as the project site) can be used for the landing and
taking off of EMS helicopters upon approval of the fire or police departments because it is
located at a medical facility, as long as it averages no more than six landings per monthwith
patients onboardover a 12-month period.
Prevailing winds in the project area are traveling east.The closest public use airport facility is the
French Valley Airport, which islocated approximately 6.6 miles northwest from the project site.
The project site lies far outside of theFrench Valley Airport compatibility zones and airport
influence area, and is not within theairport’s traffic pattern.
The land uses in the vicinity of the hospital include:
Single-family residences and an equestriantrail to the north and northwest
Single-family and commercial properties to the southwest and southeast, beyond
Temecula Parkway
Professional medical offices to the west
Multi-family residential, commercial, medical office,and a flood control channel are to
the east
3.2-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
3.2.2Regulatory Setting
Federal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration(FAA)is the federalagency that establishes standards for
the design of thehelistop, and the rules for pilot and helicopter operations.The FAA’s primary
responsibility is to determine what,ifany,effect the landing and taking off of helicopters would
have on the air trafficand related safety hazardsin the vicinity of theprojectsite.
FAA Advisory Circular –(AC)150/5390/2C, “Heliport Design”
provides the standards used
todesign heliports in the United States. This includes defining acceptable approach,landing,
takeoff, and safety areasthat must be maintained clear ofobstructions. The FAA also provides
standards for the placement of lighting, windcones, beacons, and other heliport markings. Chapter
4 of the Advisory Circular (AC)provides recommendations for hospital heliports, and describes
essential features of ground-level and rooftop hospital helistops, safety areas, and minimum
dimensions (Figures4-1,4-2,and 4-5;pages 110–111, and 117of the AC).In addition, the AC
describes the appropriate approach and departure transitional surfaces, and flight path
dimensions. Section 417 of the AC includes the following security and safety considerations for
the design of a helistop:
Provide a means to keep the operational areas of a hospital heliport clear of people,
animals, and vehicles. Use a method to control access depending upon the helicopter
location and types of potential intruders.
At ground-level hospital heliports, erect a safety barrier around the helicopter operational
areas in the form of a fence or a wall. Construct the barrier no closer to the operation
areas than the outer perimeter of the safety area. Make sure the barrier does not penetrate
any approach/departure (primary or transitional) surface. If necessary in the vicinity of
the approach/departure paths, install the barrier well outside the outer perimeter of the
safety area.
Barrier should behigh enough to present a deterrent to persons inadvertently entering an
operational area and yet low enough to be nonhazardous to helicopter operations.
Display a cautionary sign on gates and doors. As an option at hospital heliport, secure
operational areas via the use of security guards and a mixture of fixed and movable
barriers.
Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 157, Notice of Construction, Activation, and
Deactivation of Airports
establishes standards and notification requirements for projects that
propose to construct, alter, or deactivate an air facility. The notification allows the FAA to
identify potential aeronautical hazards in advance, topreventand minimizeany adverse impacts
and provide safe and efficient use of navigable airspace. FAR Part 157 serves as the basis for
evaluating the effects of the proposed action on the safe and efficient use of airspace by aircraft
and the safety of persons and property on the ground. These effects include but are not limited to
evaluating:
3.2-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
The effects the proposed action would have on existing or proposed traffic patterns of
neighboring airports.
The effect the proposed action would have on the existing airspace structure and
projected programs of the FAA.
The effects that existing or proposed objects (on file with the FAA) within the affected
area would have on the airport proposal.
After conducting airspace studies per FAR 157, the FAA issued its airspacedetermination letter
for the existing site on March 15, 2012,and a separate airspace determination letter for the
interim helistop on July 3, 2013.
FederalRegulation 49 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR)Part 77
establishes standards and
notification requirements for objectsaffecting navigable airspace. This notification serves as the
basis for:
Evaluating the effect of the proposed construction or alteration on operatingprocedures
Determining the potential hazardous effect of the proposed construction on airnavigation
Identifying mitigating measures to enhance safe air navigation
Charting of new objects.
FAA FAR Part 77 includes the establishment of imaginary surfaces that allows the FAA to
identify potential aeronautical hazards in advance,thus preventing or minimizing the adverse
impacts to the safe and efficient use of navigableairspace. The regulations identify three-
dimensional imaginary surfaces through which no object should penetrate.Section 77.29 (Airport
Imaginary Surfaces forHeliports) establishes this “imaginary surface” as (a) a primary surface
defined as the designatedtakeoff and landing area of a heliport; (b) an approach surface that
begins at each end of theprimary surface and extends outward and upward for 4,000 feet,
extending at a 8:1, and (c) atransitional surface that extends outward and upward from the
primary surface and from theapproach surfaces at a slope of 2:1for a distance of 250 feet. An
object that would beconstructed or altered within the imaginary surface area of the heliport
would be subjectto the FAA requirements.Technically, FAR Part 77 applies only to “public use”
airports and heliports. However, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics appliesthe same criteria to the
proposed project’s “private use” helistop.
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
The Division of Aeronautics within Caltrans is the state permitting agency for helistops, and
reviewsall the documentation and approvals submittedfrom the local government agencies and
the FAAto makethe final determination as to the safety and appropriateness of the location for a
helistop and the adequacy of the helistop design. Caltrans has adopted many of the design
standards set forth in the FAA AC 150/5390-2C, and has developed some additional criteria of its
own (Title 21, Sec. 3525 through 3560, California Code of Regulations).
3.2-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
California Code of Regulations,Title 21
Sections 3525 through 3560
provides rules, regulations, and permit requirements related to the
proposed helistop that incorporate most of the FAA regulations, including: design standards,
lighting standards, visual standards, obstruction standards. All of the standards and regulations
contained withinCCR, Title 21, Sections 3525 through 3560 related to the adequacy of helistop
design, including marking, lighting, and visual aids,must be met to receive a helistop operating
permit from Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
State of California Aeronautics Law,State Aeronautics Act, andPublic Utility Code
provides regulations to protect the public interest in aeronautics by fostering and promoting safety
in aeronautics; ensuring uniformity of the laws and regulations relating to aeronautics consistent
with federal aeronautics laws and regulations,assuring that persons residing in the vicinity of
airports (heliports) are protected to the greatest possible extent against intrusions by unreasonable
levels of aircraft noise; and developing informational programs to increase the understanding of
current air transportation issues including, aviation safety, planning, noise, and the role of
aviation as an integral part of the state's transportation system.Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
granted Conditional Plan Approval for the interim helistop on June 12, 2013.
Emergency Medical ServicesHelicopter Landing Site
is defined in CCR, Title 21, Section
3527(g) as follows: A site used for the landing and taking off of EMS helicopters that is located at
or as near as practical to a medical emergency or at or near a medical facility and;
Has been designated an EMS landing site by an officer authorized by a public safety
agency, as defined in PUC Section 21662.1, using criteria that the public safety agency
has determined is reasonable and prudent for the safe operation of EMS helicopters;
Is used, over any twelve month period, for no more than an average of six landings per
month with a patient or patients on the helicopter, except to allow for adequate medical
response to a mass casualty event even if that response causes the site to be used beyond
these limits;
Is not marked as a permitted heliport as described in Section 3554 of these regulations;
and
Is used only for emergency medical purposes.
Examples of public safety agencies could be a fire department, police department, sheriff’s
department, or county agency, etc.Therefore, an EMShelicopter landing siteis not astate
permitted helistopbased on the FAA’s Heliport Design Guide, which provides criteria contained
to ensure an acceptablelevel of safety for a hospital helistop.The level of safety of each EMS
helicopter landingthat is not on a permitted helistop is unknown, as each individual public safety
agency may have their own criteria, which may or may not be equivalent to established helistop
safety standards (Caltrans, 1997).
3.2-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
Riverside County Airport Land UseCompatibility Plan
The Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) is responsible for reviewing
projects near airports or related to air facility to make sure they are consistent with approved
compatibility plans. To provide guidance for land use recommendations, an airport land use
compatibility plan was developed to promote compatibility between air facilities and the land
uses that surround them. The plan includes policies by which the ALUC operates and conducts
compatibility reviews of proposed development actions; describes the overall context of airport
land use compatibility planning in general and for airports in Riverside County in particular; and
the procedures that the ALUC wouldfollow in making compatibility determinations. The
proposed helistop project wasreviewed by the ALUC on February 13, 2014,received a
determination of consistency with the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
(ALUCP).
City of Temecula Municipal Code
17.40.130 General requirements—Airports and helipads
: All wireless telecommunication
facilities and antennas located at or near any airport or helipad shall comply with the following
measures:
A. No telecommunication facility or antenna shall be installed within the safety zone of any
airportor any helipad unless the airport land use commission indicates that it will not
adversely affect the operation of the airport or helipad.
B. No telecommunication facility or antenna shall be installed at a location where special
painting or lighting will be required by the FAA regulations unless technical evidence
acceptable to the planning director or planning commission, as appropriate, is submitted
showing that this is the only technically feasible location for this facility.
C.Where tower lighting is required, it shall be shielded or directed to the greatest extent
possible in such a manner as to minimize the amount of light that falls onto nearby
properties, particularly residences.
3.2.3Impact Assessment
Methodology
The analysis in this section focuses on potential hazards associated with use of the proposed
helistop facilities on the project site. The proposed project was evaluated for compliance with
existing federal and state regulations related to hospital helistop facilities and consistency with
the policiesofthe Riverside County ALUCPthat are related to implementation ofthe proposed
project.
Thresholds of Significance
According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, the proposed project could have a potentially
significant impact with respect to hazardsif it would:
3.2-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport,
use or disposal of hazardous materials.
Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonable
foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials
into the environment.
Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school.
Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous material sites compiled
pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment.
For a project located within an airport land useplan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project
result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area.
For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety
hazard for people residing or working in the project area.
Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response
plan or emergency evacuation plan.
Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving
wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands.
As determinedin the NOP/Initial Study(Appendix A), implementation of the proposed project
would not result in significant impacts related to routine transport of hazardous materials,
accidental release of hazardous materials, hazardous emissions, location of a hazardous materials
site, public airports, emergency response plans, or wildland fire hazards. Therefore, no further
analysis of these topics is included.
Safety Hazards
The proposed project would modify the City-approved, but not yet developed, helistop facilities
in response to FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics regulations, safety factors, and recent
residential developmentnear the project siteand would include construction and operation of a
new single-story 5,000 square foot storage building.
Theproposedproject would relocate the previously City-approved helistop to two new
locations—an interim location for use during preliminary project phases and a permanent location
on top of a future hospital tower when it is constructed during Phase IV. The helistop would be a
location designed for the transport of patients,and would not include fueling, service, long-term
parking, or storage of helicopters or related equipment at the site.Anaverage of eight helicopter
operationsare anticipated tooccur per month (four departures and four arrivals),although actual
frequency would depend on medicalneeds.The proposed storage building would be located at
the previously City-approved helistop location in the eastern portion of the project site.
3.2-6
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
The proposed locations of both the interim and permanent helistops and the storage building are
shown on Figures2-3 and 2-4(Chapter 2,Project Description). The proposed flight paths would
route incoming flights from theeast and departing flights would leave the helistopheading west,
andhave been designed to avoid the existing fivestory hospital building, trees,light poles, and
-
utility lines. In addition,the proposed flight paths considerthepredominant wind directionand
avoid low altitude flying over residential areas.In addition, the proposed 5,000-square-foot
storage building would be22feet high (which is lower than the main hospital building) and
located outside of the two proposed flight pathsfor the interim helistop,and would not interfere
with incoming or departing flights.
The proposed flight paths were designed to be consistent withtheFAA Helistop design standards
that are specified in Chapter 4 of the FAA Advisory Circular 150/5390-2Cthat ensure sufficient
airspaceobstruction clearance.In addition, the flight paths are consistent with theFederal
Aviation Regulations (FAR) that include prescriptive standards for flight paths and other safety
requirements designed to provide adequate maneuvering room for pilots using the helistop.
Specifically, the proposed flightpaths are designedtomeet FAR Part 77 obstruction clearance
standardsthat specifya series of imaginary surfaces in the airspace surrounding landing areas.
These surfaces include a primary surface (a horizontal plane at helistop elevation), approach
surfaces (shallow, inclined planes along each designated flight path), and transition surfaces
(steeper inclined planes to the sides of flight paths).Perthese FAA and Caltransdesign
requirements,the proposed flight pathsareapproximately aligned with the prevailing wind and
extend out from the edge of the helistopfor a distance of 4,000 feet,at a ratio of 1 foot vertical
for every 8 feet horizontal distance traveled.
The FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics review and permitting procedures that are being
conducted as part of the proposed project evaluatethe effects the proposed helistopwould have
onthesafety of persons or propertyon the groundand existing and proposed objectsthat extend
intotheairspace. Prior to providing an airspace determination letterfromthe FAAand a helistop
permit from Caltrans Aeronautics, both agencieswould determine that the proposed helistop
locationswould not adversely affect the safe and efficient useof the navigable airspace by
aircraft, and would not result in safety effects to persons or property on the ground. An airspace
determination letterfrom the FAA and a permit from Caltrans Aeronautics wouldbe required
priorto construction or operation of the proposed helistoplocations.In addition, the proposed
project wasreviewed by the Riverside County ALUCon February 13, 2014,and received a
determination of consistency with the Riverside County ALUCP.Implementation of these flight
paths that are consistent with FAA and Caltrans design requirements, the airport land use plan,
and operating under approvals from theseagencies would reduce safety hazards to both persons
in the helicopter and people residing or working in the project area. As a result, impacts related to
substantial safety risks for people residing or working in the project area would be less than
significant.
Significance Determination:
Less than significant
3.2-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.2 Hazards
3.2.4Cumulative Impacts
Hazardrelated impacts typically occur in a local or site-specific context versus a cumulative
context combined with other development projects; although it is possible for combined effects of
hazards to occurby adjacent cumulative developmentthat involves hazardous risks.Several
projects shown in Figure 2-7are in the vicinity of the project area; however, none would involve
helicopter landing or other aviation-related uses. Furthermore, except for development of the
hospital, nonewould involve building heights that would extend into the planned flight path, such
that a hazardous event on the project site or related to the helicopter travel would result in
cumulative impacts.
A limitedincrease in air trafficin the project vicinity would be generated from the project, which
would adhere to all safety regulations.The existing regulations related to the heliport design and
flight path, and the required FAA, Caltrans Aeronautics, and ALUC review and approvals reduce
the potential for hazardous conditionsand provide safety measuressuch that a cumulatively
adverse condition would not occur from implementation of the proposed project.Furthermore and
as noted above, the proposed project site is not within 2 miles of a private or public airport and
would not result in any other changes in existing air patterns. Flight paths to and from the project
site would be regulated by the FAA and must meet FAR Part 77 obstruction clearance standards.
These design considerations and the limited number of helicopter flights that would occur bythe
proposed project would ensure that the project’s contribution to hazardsimpactswould be less
than cumulatively considerable.Therefore, the effect of the heliport project in combination with
thecumulative development in theproject vicinity would not result in cumulatively considerable
impact related to thesafety of people residing or working in the project area. Hence, cumulative
impactswould be less than significant.
Significance Determination:
Less than significant
3.2-8
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3 Noise
This section evaluates the potential for noise impacts to result from implementation of the
proposed Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project (proposed project). This includes the
potential for the proposed project to result in impacts associated with construction noise; a
substantial temporary and/or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the
project site; exposure of people in the vicinity of the project site to excessive noise levels; and
whether this exposure is in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise
ordinance.
3.3.1Environmental Setting
Characteristics of Sound
Sound can be technically described in terms of its sound pressure (amplitude) and frequency
(similar to pitch). Amplitude is a direct measure of the magnitude, or loudness, of a sound
without consideration for other factors that may influence its perception. The ranges of sound
pressures that occur in the environment are so large that they are expressed on a logarithmic
scale. The standard unit of measurement of sound is the decibel (dB). A sound pressure level in
dB describes the pressure of a sound relative to a reference pressure. By using a logarithmic scale,
the wide range in sound pressures is compressed to a more usable range of numbers.
For example, a sound level of 70 dB has 10 times the acoustic energy as a level of 60 dB; while a
sound level of 80 dB has 100 times the acoustic energy as a level of 60 dB. In terms of human
response to noise, the perception of changes in noise level is very different. A sound 10 dB higher
than another sound is usually judged to be twice as loud. A sound 20 dB higher is judged four
times as loud and so forth. Therefore, due to the logarithmic nature of sound, linear addition
cannot be applied when combining two noise levels. For instance, 50 dB plus 50 dB would not
equal 100 dB. Rather, it would equal 53 dB due to the logarithmic scale of decibels. The
combination of two noise levels is achieved by converting the noise levels into acoustic energy,
adding the energy together, and then applying a logarithmic function to convert the resulting
value back into a decibel value. The following table illustrates the principal of decibel addition.
Difference between two decibel valuesAmount added to higher value
0 or 13
2 or 32
4 to 91
10 or more0
SOURCE: United States Department of Labor OSHA, 2014.
3.3-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Noise Principles and Descriptors
In general, the typical human ear is not equally sensitive to all frequencies of the audible sound
spectrum. As a consequence, when assessing potential noise impacts, sound is measured using an
electronic filter that de-emphasizes the frequencies below 1,000 Hertz (Hz) and above 5,000 Hz
in a manner corresponding to the human ears decreased sensitivity to low and extremely high
frequencies instead of the frequency mid-range. This method of frequency weighting is referred
to as A-weighting and is expressed in units of A-weighted decibels. Frequency A-weighting
follows an international standard methodology of frequency de-emphasis and is typically applied
to community noise measurements. Some representative noise sources and their corresponding
Figure 3.3-1
A-weighted noise levels are shown in .
Noise Exposure and Community Noise
An individual’s noise exposure is a measure of noise over a period of time. A noise level is a
measure of noise at a given instant in time. The noise levels presented in Figure 3.3-1 are
representative of measured noise at a given instant in time; however, they rarely persist
consistently over a long period of time. Community noise is variable throughout a day, from
slowly changing background noise as activity levels in an area change and short-duration, single-
event noise sources (e.g., aircraft flyovers, motor vehicles, sirens), which are readily heard.
Because the community noise environment changes from instant to instant, measurements of noise
exposure over a period of time are used to characterize a community noise environment and
evaluate cumulative noise impacts. This time-varying characteristic of environmental noise is
described using statistical noise descriptors. The most frequently used noise descriptors are
summarized below:
L: The L, or equivalent sound level, is used to describe noise over a specified period of time in
eqeq
terms ofa single numerical value; the Lof a time-varying signal and that of a steady
eq
signal are the same if they deliver the same acoustic energy over a given time. The L
eq
may also be referred to as the average sound level.
L: The maximum, instantaneous noise level experienced during a given period of time.
max
L: The minimum, instantaneous noise level experienced during a given period of time.
min
L: The noise level exceeded X% of a specified time period. For instance, L and L
x5090
represent the noise levels that are exceeded 50 percent and 90 percent of the time,
respectively.
L: Also termed the DNL, the Lis the average A-weighted noise level during a 24-hour day,
dndn
obtained after an addition of 10 dB to measured noise levels between the hours of 10:00 p.m.
to 7:00 a.m. to account nighttime noise sensitivity.
CNEL:CNEL, or Community Noise Equivalent Level, is the average A-weighted noise level
during a 24-hour day with additional weightings for noise events occurring in the evening
(i.e., 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) and nighttime (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) periods. During the
evening period, each event is multiplied by 3, which adds 4.77 dB to each event. At
night, each event is multiplied by 10, which adds 10 dB to each event. The evening and
3.3-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
130652
Effects of Noise on People
Figure 3.3-1
.
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR
Gas Lawn Mower at 100 Ft.
Quiet Suburban Nighttime
Gas Lawn Mower at 3 Ft.
Heavy Traffic at 300 Ft.
Jet Flyover at 1000 Ft.
Quiet Urban Nighttime
COMMON OUTDOOR
Quiet Rural Nighttime
Diesel Truck at 50 Ft.
Noisy Urban Daytime
Quiet Urban Daytime
NOISE LEVELS
Commercial Area
Conference Room (Background)
Broadcast and Recording Studio
Inside Subway Train (New York)
Concert Hall (Background)
Garbage Disposal at 3 Ft.
Vacuum Cleaner at 10 Ft.
Dishwasher Next Room
Large Business Office
Food Blender at 3 Ft.
Threshold of Hearing
Small Theater, Large
COMMON INDOOR
NOISE LEVELS
Shouting at 3 Ft.
Rock Band
Library
100
110
908070605040302010
(dBA, Leq)
0
LEVEL
NOISE
4 Times As Loud
Twice As Loud
REFERENCE
1/2 As Loud1/4 As Loud
PUBLIC REACTION
LOCAL COMMITTEE ACTIVITY WITH
INFLUENTIAL OR LEGAL ACTION
COMPLAINTS POSSIBLE
LETTERS OF PROTEST
COMPLAINTS LIKELY
COMPLAINTS RARE
ACCEPTANCE
SOURCE: ESA
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
nighttime weightings account for additional sensitivity to noise events in each of those periods.
The State Department of Aeronautics and the California Commission on Housing and
Community Development regulations require use of the CNELmetric, which as described above,
provides additional weightingsfor the evening and nighttime noise events. The daytime noise
levels are combined with these weighted levels and are averaged to obtain a CNEL value.
Effects of Noise on People
The effects of noise on people can be placed into four categories:
Subjective effects (e.g., dissatisfaction, annoyance)
Interference effects (e.g., communication, sleep, and learning interference)
Physiological effects (e.g., startle response)
Physical effects (e.g., hearing loss, sleep interference)
Environmental noise typically produces effects in the first two categories. The principal human
responses to noise exposure are related to subjective effects and interference with activities.
Interference with daily activities includes interference with human communication activities, such
as normal conversations, watching television, telephone conversations, and interference with
sleep. Sleep interference effects can include both awakening and arousal to a lesser state of sleep.
With regard to the subjective effects, the responses of individuals to similar noise events are
diverse and are influenced by many factors, including the type of noise, the perceived importance
of the noise, the appropriateness of the noise to the setting, the duration of the noise, the time of
day and the type of activity during which the noise occurs, individual noise sensitivity, and
habituation to noise.
In 2008, the American National Standards Institute published a standard method of estimating
sleep disturbance that divided the population into two groups, based on their habituation to the
noise source. The study determined that a population that has not been habituated to a nighttime
noise wake up more often than a habituated population. A population habituated to common noise
sources in their environment woke substantially less than a population newly exposed to noise.
Similarly, in 2008 the Federal Interagency Committee on Aircraft Noise (FICAN) published a
report that summarized sleep disturbance research relative to aircraft noise, and noted that a
limited number ofthe exposed population is awakened. Per the 2008 FICAN report, the exposed
population has less than a5 percent probability of awakening from a single-event, which
produces a single indoor noise level of 85 dB or less. However, should the noise of 85 dB occur
more than four hours after falling to sleep, the probability of awakening could increase beyond 5
percent. In addition, indoor noise of 78 dB is anticipated toresult in the probability of awakening
remaining at or below 5 percent as long as the event occurs within 6 hours of the time since
falling to sleep. Furthermore, two indoor noise events of 78 dB in one night (such as noise from a
helicopter transport) would result in the probability of awakening of approximately 6 percent of
the population (FICAN, 2008).
3.3-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
In regard to annoyance and dissatisfaction, a wide variation in individual thresholds of annoyance
exists, and different tolerances to noise tend to develop based on an individual’s past experiences
with noise. Thus, an important way of predicting a human reaction to a new noise environment is
the way it compares to the existing environment to which one has adapted: the so called “ambient
noise” level. In general, the more a new noise exceeds the previously existing ambient noise
level, the less acceptable the new noise will be judged by those hearing it. With regard to
increases in noise level, the following relationships occur:
Except in carefully controlled laboratory experiments, a change of 1 dB cannot be
perceived.
Outside of the laboratory, a 3dB change is considered a just-perceivable difference.
A change in level of at least 5 dB is required before any noticeable change in human
response would be expected.
A 10 dB change is subjectively heard as approximately a doubling in loudness, and can
cause adverse response(Caltrans, 1998).
These relationships occur in part because of the logarithmic nature of sound and the decibel
system. The human ear perceives sound in a nonlinear fashion; hence, the decibel scale was
developed.
Effects of Noise on Horses
Horses have binaural hearing, which means that they can hear soundsfrom both ears
concurrently. The size and shape of a horse ear allows the horse to detect a sound more readily
and from different areas in the surrounding environment than humans (Heffner, 2000). Horse ears
rotate 180 degrees and generally face the direction the animal is looking. With binaural hearing,
they can focus one eye and ear on the rider (for example) and one eye and ear on something else
(FHWA, 2007). When they hear something, horses want to see the cause (FHWA, 2007).
However, binaural hearing is not precise; many times horses are not able to accurately detect the
location of sounds in the environment (Heffner, 2000). This inability to accurately pinpoint a
sound in the environment may cause a horse to become frightened or startled when certain or
unidentifiable sounds are produced (Heffner, 2000).
In addition, horses can hear frequencies from a wide range of 55 to 33,500 Hz, while humans hear
lower and smallerfrequency ranges, from approximately 30 to 19,000 Hz (Blazer, 2012).
Because of the high-frequency range, horses may be more sensitive to higher-pitched sounds than
humans. The horse’s natural response and survival instinct tosudden or unidentifiable sounds in
the environment, or when a particular sound is perceived to be a threat, is to flee in the opposite
direction of the sound (Heffner, 2000).
Horses have been observed for reactions to aircraft (USAF, 2000), which indicate a varied
response to low-altitude aircraft overflights. Some horses startle at a sudden onset of aircraft
noise and gallop or kick when surprised by a low-altitude aircraft overflight, but sometimes no
reaction occurs. Although all horses have the same basic instincts, the reaction to environmental
noise for each individual horse depends on its training, life experience, and personality (Heffner,
3.3-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
2000). The response varies with the horse, the rider, the terrain, and other conditions (USAF,
2000). Horses can become gradually conditioned tovarious noises over time (Heffner, 2000). The
U.S.AirForce has evidence that horses typically adapt to flyovers over a month’s time (USAF,
2000). Also, horsesridden in more developed environments become accustomed to unsettling
noises after repeated exposure to them (FHWA, 2007). Vehicles backfiring, gunfire, firecrackers,
sirens, helicopters, public address systems, hot air balloons, trains, marching bands, mechanical
equipment, echoes, and bridge or tunnel sounds are tolerated by horses that are accustomed to
them. Likewise, horses that spend time in rural areas get used to noises such as the sounds of farm
animals and farmingactivities (FHWA, 2007).
Noise Attenuation
Stationary point sources of noise, including stationary mobile sources such as idling vehicles,
attenuate (lessen) at a rate between 6 dB for hard sites and 7.5 dB for soft sites for each doubling
of distance from the reference measurement. Hard sites arethose with a reflective surface
between the source and the receiver, such as parking lots or smooth bodies of water. No excess
ground attenuation is assumed for hard sites and the changes in noise levels with distance (drop-
off rate) are simply the geometric spreading of the noise from the source. Soft sites have an
absorptive ground surface, such as soft dirt, grass or scattered bushes and trees. In addition to
geometric spreading, an excess ground attenuation value of 1.5 dB (per doubling distance) is
normally assumed for soft sites. Line sources (such astraffic noise from vehicles) attenuate at a
rate between 3 dB for hard sites and 4.5 dB for soft sites for each doubling of distance from the
reference measurement(Caltrans, Technical Noise Supplement, 1998).
Existing Conditions
Sensitive Receptors
Some land uses are considered more sensitive to ambient noise levels than others because of the
amount of noise exposure (in terms of both exposure duration and insulation from noise) and the
types of activities typically involved. Residences, hotels, schools, rest homes, and hospitals are
generally more sensitive to noise than commercial and industrial land uses.
The proposed project is located on the north side of Temecula Parkway, south of De Portola
Road, and approximately 700 feet west of Margarita Road. The distance from the interim helistop
site to the nearest residential property line is approximately 225 feet,and the distance from the
permanent helistop to the nearest residential unit (the Madera Vista apartments) is approximately
305 feet. In addition, a church is located over 1,000 feet away. The land uses in the vicinity of the
hospital include:
Single-family residencesand an equestriantrailto the north and northwest
Single-family residences andcommercial properties to the southwest and southeast,
beyond Temecula Parkway
Professional medical offices to the west
Multi-family residential, commercial,medical office, and a flood control channelto the
east and northeast
3.3-6
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Existing Ambient Noise Levels
Table 3.3-1,
The ambient noise environment on and nearby the hospital site are shown on which
Figure 3.3-2
provides the measured noiseat five representative locations (shown in ).
TABLE 3.3-1
SUMMARY OF EXISTING AMBIENT NOISE MEASUREMENTS
Location Measurement Measured Average AMBIENT
NumberLocation DescriptionPeriodNoise Level, dB CNEL, dB
1 30390 De Portola Road24 hours45.1–61.259.6
2 30955 De Portola Road24 hours45.8–63.258.9
3 31775 De Portola Road24 hours50.1–61.763.5
4 On project site, at offset of 20 minutes57.9N/A
proposed five-story bed tower
5 31602 Calle Los Padres (adjacent 24 hours64.2–76.578.7
to Highway 79)
NOTES: Ambient samples were collected by ESA Associates between June 19 and 26, 2014.
All instrumentation meetsthe requirements of the American National Standards InstituteS1.4-1971.
3.3.2Regulatory Setting
Federal Regulations
Under Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regulations (Title 23 of the Code of Federal
Regulations \[CFR\] Part 772), noise abatement must be considered for hospital sites; these criteria
indicate that the Equivalent Continuous Noise Level (Leq) during the noisiest 1-hour period of
the day should not exceed 67 dB at exterior areas or 52 dB within the interior of a hospital or
medical building.
In addition, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Guidelines, 14 CFR Part 150, provide that all
land uses are compatible with aircraft noise at exposure levels below 65 dB CNEL (or Ldn). It is
important to note that no compatibility criteria have been established for A-weighted single-event
noise metrics. Single-event noise metrics are considered supplemental metrics to help describe
the CNEL environment and the associated noise effects.
California Public Utilities Code
The California Public Utilities Code (PUC) Section 21662.4. (a) states that emergency aircraft
flights for medical purposes by law enforcement, firefighting, military, or other persons who
provide emergency flights for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances adopted by a
3.3-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
44
44
Site 2
Site 3
44
44
44
44
44
44
44
PROJECTPROJECT
44
44
AA
SITESITE
Site 4
Site 1
AA
44
44
44
44
Site 5
44
44
44
44
44
44
44
44
79
Ambient Noise
Monitoring Locations
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 3.3-2
Ambient Noise Monitoring Locations
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
city, county, or city and county, whether general law or chartered, that restrict flight departures
and arrivals to particular hours of the day or night, that restrict the departure or arrival of
aircraft based upon the aircraft's noise level, or that restrict the operation of certain types of
aircraft (emphasisadded to project related code text). Pursuant to this, the City cannot restrict
helicopter activity at the hospital for medical purposes.
California Code of Regulations, Title 21
California Airport Noise Standards, Subchapter 6 – Noise Standards, Article 1 – General,
Sections 5001 through 5006
provides noise standards governing the operation of aircraft and
aircraft engines. Section 5006 defines the level of noise acceptable to a reasonable person
residing in the vicinity of an airport as a CNEL value of 65 dB for purposes of these regulations.
This criterion level has been chosen for reasonable persons residing in urban residential areas
where houses are of typical California construction and may have windows partially open. It has
been selected with reference to speech, sleep, and community reaction. As in the federal criteria,
no compatibility criteria have been established for A-weighted single-event noise metrics such as
CNEL or Lmax.
California Department of Health Services Noise Standards
The California Department of Health Services (DHS) has established guidelines for evaluating
the compatibility of various land uses as a function of community noise exposure. These
Table 3.3-2
guidelines for land use and noise exposure compatibility are shown in . In addition,
Section 65302(f) of the California Government Code requires each county and city in the state to
prepare and adopt a comprehensive long-rangegeneral plan for its physical development, with
Section 65302(g) requiring a noise element to be included in the general plan. The noise element
must: (1) identify and appraise noise problems in the community; (2) recognize Office of Noise
Control guidelines; and (3) analyze and quantify current and projected noise levels.
The State of California also establishes noise limits for vehicles licensed to operate on public
roads. For heavy trucks, the state pass-by standard is consistent with the federal limit of 80 dB.
The state pass-by standard for light trucks and passenger cars (less than 4.5 tons, gross vehicle
rating) is also 80 dB at 15 meters from the centerline. These standards are implemented through
controls on vehicle manufacturers and by legal sanction of vehicle operators by state and local
law enforcement officials.
The state has also established noise insulation standards for new multi-family residential units,
hotels, and motels that would be subject to relatively high levels of transportation-related noise.
These requirements are collectively known as the California Noise Insulation Standards (Title 24,
California Code of Regulations). The noise insulation standards set forth an interior standard of
45 dB Ldn in any habitable room. They require an acoustical analysis demonstrating how
dwelling units have been designed to meet this interior standard where such units are proposed in
areas subject to noise levels greater than 60 dB Ldn. Title 24 standards are typically enforced by
local jurisdictions through the building permit application process.
3.3-9
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
TABLE 3.3-2
COMMUNITY NOISE EXPOSURE (LdnOR CNEL)
NormallyConditionallyNormallyClearly
abcd
Land UseAcceptableAcceptableUnacceptableUnacceptable
Single-family, Duplex, Mobile Homes50- 6055- 7070- 75above 75
Multi-family Homes50- 6560- 7070- 75above 75
Schools, Libraries, Churches,
50- 7060- 7070- 80above 80
Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Transient Lodging – Motels, Hotels50- 6560- 7070- 80above 75
Auditoriums, Concert Halls,
---50- 70---above 70
Amphitheaters
Sports Arena,
---50- 75---above 75
Outdoor Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks50- 70---67- 75above 75
Golf Courses, Riding Stables,
50- 75---70- 80above80
WaterRecreation, Cemeteries
Office Buildings, Business and
50- 7067- 77above 75---
Professional Commercial
Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities,
50- 7570- 80above 75---
Agriculture
a
Normally Acceptable: Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal
conventional construction without any special noise insulation requirements.
b
Conditionally Acceptable: New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction
requirements is made and needed noise insulation features included in the design. Conventional construction, but with closed windows
and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning will normally suffice.
c
Normally Unacceptable: New construction or development should generally be discouraged. If new construction or development does
proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features included in the
design.
d
Clearly Unacceptable: New constructionor development should generally not be undertaken.
SOURCE:OPR, 2003.
City of Temecula General Plan – Noise Element
The City’s noise standards are correlated with land use zoning classifications in order to maintain
identified ambient noise levels and to limit, mitigate, or eliminate intrusive noise that exceeds the
ambient noise levels within a specified zone. The City’s primary goal with regard to community
noise is to minimize the exposure of residents to unhealthful or excessive noise levels to the
extent possible. To this end, the Noise Element establishes noise/land use compatibility
guidelines based on cumulative noise criteria for outdoor noise. These guidelines are based, in
part, on the community noise compatibility guidelines established by the DHS for use in
assessing the compatibility of various land use types with a range of noise levels. The City’s
Table 3.3-3
noise/land use compatibility guidelines are shown in .
3.3-10
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
TABLE 3.3-3
CITY OF TEMECULA GENERAL PLAN NOISE/LAND USE COMPATIBILITY MATRIX
Community Noise Exposure (Ldn or CNEL, dB)
NormallyConditionallyNormallyClearly
abcd
Land UseAcceptableAcceptableUnacceptableUnacceptable
e
50- 6060- 7070- 75above 75
Residential
Transient Lodging – Motel, Hotel50- 6060- 7070- 80above 80
Schools, Libraries, Churches,
50- 6060- 7070- 80above 80
Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Auditoriums, Concert Halls,
---50- 70---above 70
f
Amphitheaters
Sports Arena,
---50- 75---above 75
f
Outdoor Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Parks50- 70 ---70- 75above 75
Golf Course, Riding Stables,
50- 70---70- 80above 80
WaterRecreation, Cemeteries
Office Buildings, Business
50- 6565- 75above 75---
Commercial, and Professional
Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities,
50- 7070- 80above 80---
Agriculture
Agricultureabove 50
a
Normally Acceptable: Specified land use is satisfactorybased onthe assumption that any buildings involved are of normal conventional
construction, without any special noise insulation requirements.
b
Conditionally Acceptable: New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise
requirements is made and needed noise insulation features included in the design. Conventional construction, but with closed windows
and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning will normally suffice.
c
Normally Unacceptable: New construction or development should generally be discouraged. Ifitdoes proceed, a detailed analysis of the
noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features included in the design.
d
Clearly Unacceptable: New construction or development should generally not be undertaken.
e
Regarding aircraft-related noise, the maximum acceptable exposure for new residential development is 60 dB CNEL Noise Element
Table N-2.
f
No normally acceptable condition is defined for these uses. Noise studies are required prior to approval.
SOURCE:City of Temecula General Plan, Noise ElementTable N-2, 2005.
In accordance with the Noise Element of the City of Temecula General Plan, a noise exposure of
up to 60 dB Ldn or CNEL exposure is considered to be the most desirable target for the exterior
of noise-sensitive land uses or at sensitive receptors such as homes, schools, churches, libraries,
hospitals, hotels, motels, etc. It is also recognized that such a level may not always be possible in
areas of substantial traffic noise intrusion. In addition, all new residential development in the city
would be required to comply with Title 24 standards of the State Health and Safety Code. These
standards establish maximum interior noise levels for new residential development, requiring that
sufficient insulation be provided to reduce interior ambient noise levels to 45 dB Ldn or CNEL or
less.
3.3-11
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
The City of Temecula General Plan Noise Element contains various goals and policies to address
citywide noise issues. The following are relevant to the proposed project:
Goal 1
Separate significant noise generators from sensitive receptors.
Policy 1.1
Discourage noise sensitiveland uses in noisy exterior environments unless
measures can be implemented to reduce exterior and interior noise to acceptable
levels. Alternatively, encourage less sensitive uses in areas adjacent to major noise
generators but require sound–appropriate interior working environment.
Policy 1.2
Limit the hours of construction activity next to residential areas to reduce noise
intrusion in the early morning, late evening, weekends and holidays.
Policy 1.3
Use information from the noise contour map in the General Plan in the
development review process to prevent location of sensitive land uses near major
stationary noise sources.
Goal 2
Minimize transfer of noise impacts between adjacent land uses.
Policy 2.1
Limit the maximum permitted noise levels crossing property lines and impacting
adjacent land uses.
Policy 2.2
Establish criteria for placement and operation of stationary outdoor equipment.
Policy 2.3
Require that mixed-use structures and areas be designed to prevent transfer of noise
and vibration from commercial areas to residential areas.
Goal 3
Minimize the impact of noise levels throughout the community through land use
planning.
Policy 3.1
Enforce and maintain acceptable noise limit standards.
Policy 3.3
Encourage the creative use of site and building design techniques as a means to
minimize noise impacts.
Policy 3.4
Evaluate potential noise conflicts for individual sites and projects, and require
mitigation of all significant noise impacts as a condition of project approval.
Goal 4
Minimize impacts from transportation noise sources.
Policy 4.1
Minimize noise conflicts between land uses and the circulation network, and
mitigate sound levels where necessary or feasible to ensure the peace and quiet of
the community.
Policy 4.2
Ensure the effective enforcement of city, state and federal noise impacts from
vehicles, particularly in residential areas.
3.3-12
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Policy 4.3
Enforce the speed limit on arterials and local roads to reduce noise impacts from
vehicles, particularly in residential areas.
City of Temecula Municipal Code
Section 9.20 of the Temecula Municipal Code establishes citywide standards to regulate noise.
The following excerpts from Section 9.20 are relevant to the proposed project.
9.20.030 Exemptions
Sound emanating from the following sources is exempt:
E. Public safety personnel in the course of executing their official duties, including, but not
limited to, sworn peace officers, emergency personnel and public utility personnel. This
exemption includes, without limitation, sound emanating from all equipment used by
such personnel, whether stationary or mobile.
J. Safety, warning and alarm devices, including, but not limited to, house and car alarms,
and other warning devices that are designed to protect the public health, safety, and
welfare.
9.20.040 General Sound Level Standards
No person shall create any sound, or allow the creation of any sound, on any property that causes
the exterior sound level on any other occupied property to exceed the sound level standards set
Tables 3.3-4 3.3-5
forth in and .
9.20.060 Special Sound Sources Standards
No person shall engage in or conduct construction activity, when the construction site is within
one-quarter mile of an occupied residence, between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., Monday
through Friday, and shall only engage in or conduct construction activity between the hours of
7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Further, no construction activity shall be undertaken on
Sunday and nationally recognized holidays. The City Council may, by formal action, exempt
projects from the provisions of this chapter.
9.20.070 Exceptions
Exceptions may be requested from the standards set forth in Sections 9.20.040 (general sound
standards) or 9.20.060 (special sound sources standards) and may be characterized as
construction-related or single-event exceptions.
An application for a construction-related exception shall be made on a minor exception form. The
form shall be submitted in writing at least 3 working days (72hours) in advance of the scheduled
and permitted activity and shall be accompanied by the appropriate inspection fee(s). The
application is subject to approval by the City Manager or designated representative. No public
hearing is required.
3.3-13
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
TABLE 3.3-4
CITY OF TEMECULA MUNICIPAL CODE LAND USE MAXIMUM NOISE LEVEL STANDARDS
Property Receiving NoiseMaximum Noise Level(dBLmax)
Type of UseLand Use DesignationInteriorExterior
ResidentialHillside
Rural
4565
Very Low
Low
Low Medium
1
Medium4565/70
1
High4570
Commercial and OfficeNeighborhood
Community
—70
Highway Tourist
Service
Professional Office5070
Light IndustrialIndustrial Park5575
Public/InstitutionalSchools5065
All others5070
Open SpaceVineyards/Agriculture—70
2
Open Space—70/65
1
Maximum exterior noise levels of70 dB are allowed for multiple-family housing.
2
Where quiet is a basis required for the land use.
SOURCE:City of Temecula Municipal Code 9.20.040.
3.3-14
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
TABLE 3.3-5
CITY OF TEMECULA MUNICIPAL CODE NOISE/LAND USE COMPATIBILITY MATRIX
Noise Exposure (dBLmax)
Land Use
556065707580
Residential
Transient Lodging – Motel,
Hotel
Schools, Libraries, Churches,
Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Auditoriums, Concert Halls,
Amphitheaters
Sports Arena, Outdoor
Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Parks
Golf Course, Riding Stables,
Water Recreation, Cemeteries
Office Buildings, Business
Commercial, and Professional
Industrial, Manufacturing,
Utilities, Agriculture
Normally Acceptable:Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings
involved meet conventional Title 24 construction standards. No special noise insulation requirements.
Conditionally Acceptable:New construction or development shall be undertaken only after a detailed noise
analysis is made and noise reduction measures are identified and included in the project design.
Normally Unacceptable:New construction or development is discouraged. If new construction is proposed, a
detailed analysis is required, noise reduction measures must be identified, and noise insulation features included
in the design.
Clearly Unacceptable:New construction or development clearly should not be undertaken.
SOURCE: City of Temecula Municipal Code 9.20.040.
3.3-15
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
3.3.3Impact Assessment
Methodology
Integrated Noise Model
The Integrated Noise Model (INM), Version 7.0d, has been used to quantify helicopter noise
exposure in the vicinity of the interim and future helistop locations. The INM is the FAA-
approved noise model for quantifying fixed-wing and rotorcraft noise. The model input requires
information specific to each helistop, including the total number of helicopter operations, the
flight paths used to access the helistop, the specific helicopter types, and the time of day at which
the operations would occur.
The INM works by defining a network of grid points at ground level. It then selects the shortest
distance from each grid point to each flight track and computes the noise exposure generated by
each helicopter (or aircraft) operation, along each flight track. Corrections are applied for
atmospheric acoustical attenuation, acoustical shielding of the engines by the helicopter, and
speed variations. The noise exposure levels for each operation are then summed at each grid
location.
The cumulative noise exposure levels at all grid points are then used to develop CNEL contours
(e.g., 60 and 65 dB CNEL). The INM includes the ability to model the effects of changes in
ground elevations (terrain), but does not include the ability to account for shielding or reflectivity
of noise from buildings or other structures.
Cumulative Noise Metrics
Cumulative noise metrics (CNEL) have been developed to assess community response to noise.
They are useful because these scales attempt to include the loudness of the noise, the duration of
the noise, the total number of noise events, and the time of day these events occur into one single-
number rating scale.
Title 21 of the California State Aeronautics Regulations specifies the use of CNEL for
quantifying cumulative aircraft noise exposure. CNEL is the 24-hour average sound level
in decibels with an additional weighting placed on evening (7:00:00 p.m. – 9:59:59 p.m.)
and nighttime (10:00:00 p.m.– 6:59:59 a.m.) operations to account for the increased
sensitivity people have to noise events during these hours. CNEL metric and the evening
and nighttime weightings are described in detail in the “Time of Day” section below.
The Riverside County ALUCP utilizes CNEL to assess noise impacts from flight operations and
identifiesthe followingthree criteria: 1) for locations having an existing ambient noise level of 55
dB CNEL or less, a CNEL increase of 5 dB or more is deemed significant; 2) for locations
having an existing ambient noise level between 55 and 60 dB CNEL, a CNEL increase of 3 dB or
more is deemed significant; and 3) for locations having an existing ambient noise level of more
than 60 dB CNEL, a CNEL increase of 1.5 dB or more is deemed significant.
3.3-16
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Single-Event Noise Metrics
As previously discussed, no federal, state,or regional compatibility criteria has been established
for single-event noise metrics such as Lmax. Lmax represents the maximum, instantaneous noise
level experienced during a given period of time.However, the City of Temecula Municipal Code
Section 9.20.040 provides maximum sound level standards. As described above and listed in
Tables 3.3-4 and 3.3-5, the maximum exterior Lmax noise level of 65 dB is allowed for single-
family residential, and 70 dB isallowed for multiple-family residential. The regulations of the
City’s Municipal Code are applied to the single-event noise analysis provided in the following
pages.
The CEQA Guidelines do not define the levels at which permanent and temporary increases in
ambient noise are considered “substantial.” However, for the purpose of the project’s single-event
noise analysis, it is assumed that project operationswouldconstitute asignificant impact if the
project would result in an exceedance of the City’s allowableexterior noise levels.
The City Municipal Code Section 9.20.040, General Sound Level Standards, provide maximum
noise standards that are generalin nature, and are intended to apply to typical community and
land use noise sources. In addition, the City's Municipal Code Section 9.20.070 provides specific
exemptions from sound emanating from all stationary and mobile equipment used by emergency
personnel. The use of 65 dB Lmax for single-family residential, and 70 dB Lmax for multiple-
family residential (which are the maximum noise levels allowed per City Code Section 9.20.040)
for threshold criteria related to substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels,
isextremely conservativebecause the criteria does not provide for an allowable increase in noise
beyond the code requirements that may not be perceivable. As described above, a noise increase
of at least 5 dB is required before any noticeable change in human response would be expected.
Sleep Disturbance
There is no federal, state, or regional regulatory standards related to noise related sleep
disturbance. However, as described above, in 2008 FICAN published a report that summarized
sleep disturbance research relativeto aircraft noise, and determined that the population exposed to
two indoor noise events of 78 dB ina single night (such as from a helicopter transport) would
result in the probability of awakening of approximately 6 percent of the population. Based on the
data from the 2008 FICAN study, it is assumed that an indoor noise levelof 78 dB would be
significant,asthis is the sound level at which helicopter noise would begin to substantiallyaffect
the sleep of residents in the surrounding.
Because the use of the helicopter (shown in Table 3.3-6), would occur during the daytime 80
percent of the time, in the evening 10 percent of the time, and during the night time (10 p.m. to 6
a.m.)10 percent of the time,and it is estimated thaton average eight helicopter operations (four
arrival and four departure operations) would occur per month, the average nighttime usage of the
proposed helistop is projected to be one transport (one arrival and one departure operation) per
month.
3.3-17
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Sensitive Receptor Locations Evaluated
The hospital site is surrounded by single-family residential, multi-family residential, and an
equestrian trail. The specific sensitive receptor sites that are identified for evaluation(shown later
in Table3.3-9) were selected based on their relationship to the proposed interim and proposed
helistophelistop
sites. Because helicopter noise at sensitive receptors that are closer to the would
be greater due to the proximity of helicopters descending to land at and ascending to departfrom
helistop,
the this noise evaluation has identified 10 of the closest sensitive receptors that would
also be located under the proposed flight paths. This methodology is intended to identify the
greatestanticipated noise impact that is representative of effects to the project vicinity. Of course,
the noise level experienced at a particular dwelling will depend on its location relative to the
flight paths and direction of aircraft operations (arrivals or departures). The 10 sensitive receptor
Figures 3.3-3
locations are listed in Table 3.3-9, and the proposed flight paths are shown in
3.3-6
through.
Helicopter Operations and Fleet
I
t is anticipated that two localEmergency Medical Services (EMS) helicopter operators, Mercy
Air and REACH Air Medical Services, would use the helistopto transport patients approximately
eight times (fourarrivaloperationsand four departure operations)per month over a 12-month
period. This would total approximately 96 operations per year (one transport equals two
operations: an arrival and a departure). Title 21 of the California State Aeronautics Regulations
and Federal Aviation Regulation Part 150 require that the CNEL contours be based on the annual-
average day operations over a 365-day period. The proposed changes to the helistop(i.e., the
decommissioning of the interim helistop and operation of the permanent helistop) would not
result in an increase in the number of helicopters using the helistop. Thus, the same number of
operations was used to calculate the noise exposure for both the interim helistop location and
permanent helistop location.
The type of helicopter used by Mercy Air and REACH Air Medical Services that would use the
interim and permanent helistops is AirbusHelicopter’sEC135, which is commonly used for
medical air transport and currently does not have a noise profile in the INM. However, the EC130
(which does have a noise profile in the INM) is a similar helicopter and generates similar noise.
Both helicopter models have a Fenestron tail rotor, which has an array of ten blades that are
arranged asymmetrically and are spaced at different intervals, which reducesa main generator of
helicopter noise.Therefore, the EC130 makes an appropriate substitute to use in calculations for
the EC135; thus,it was used to model noise from project operations.
Time of Day
The INM includes an additional weighting during the evening and nighttime hours to account for
the increased sensitivity people have to noise events during these hours. Evening operations are
weighted as three daytime operations and nighttime operations are weighted as 10 daytime
operations. This results in a 4.77 dB penalty and a10dBpenalty for each event during these
periods, respectively. The time of day that each operation is anticipated to occur is summarized in
Table 3.3-6
.
3.3-18
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
TABLE 3.3-6
HELICOPTER OPERATIONTIMES OF DAY (CNEL)
DaytimeEveningNighttime
INM Helicopter (7:00:00 a.m. – (7:00:00 p.m. – (10:00:00 p.m. –
Type6:59:59 p.m.) 9:59:59 p.m.) 6:59:59 a.m.) Total
10.0%10.0%100.0%
EC-13080.0%
SOURCE: Heliplanners, 2013
Flight Corridors
The flight corridors used to access the helistops are an important factor in determining the
geographic distribution of noise on the ground. Flight corridors for helicopter operations were
modeled for the proposed north-flow and south-flow flight path configurations for both the
proposed interim and permanent conditions. Flight corridor use percentages were derived from
information provided by Heliplanners, the heliport consultant. Based on this data, use percentages
were developed for north-flow and south-flow operations. When operating in a north-flow
configuration (in Santa Ana wind conditions, which are winds that originate inland and do not
occur as regularly as prevailing winds), arrivals would fly a true heading of 213 degreesto the
Figure 3.3-3
interim helistop, while departures would fly a true heading of 33 degrees. depicts
the interim helistop north-flow flight corridors that would primarily be used in Santa Ana wind
conditions. When operating in a south-flow configuration (in prevailing wind conditions), arrivals
would fly a true heading of 48 degrees to theinterim helistop, while departures would fly a true
Figure 3.3-4
heading of 228 degrees. depicts the interim helistop south-flow flight corridors that
would primarily be used in prevailing wind conditions.
Future operations were modeled to and from the future permanent helistop location. When
operating in a north-flow configuration (in Santa Ana wind conditions), arrivals would fly a true
heading of 218 degrees to the permanent helistop, while departures would fly a true heading of 38
Figure 3.3-5
degrees. depicts the permanent helistop north-flow flight corridors that would
primarily be used in Santa Ana wind conditions. When operating in a south-flow configuration
3.3-19
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
Site 8
Site 6B
Site 3
Site 2
Site 6A
Site 7
Site 1
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Site 6C
Interim Helistop
Site 5
79
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 3.3-3
Interim Helistop North-Flow Flight Corridors for Santa Ana Wind Conditions
Site 8
Site 6B
Site 3
Site 2
Site 6A
Site 7
Site 1
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Site 6C
Interim Helistop
Site 5
79
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 3.3-4
Interim Helistop South-Flow Flight Corridors for Prevailing Wind Conditions
Site 8
Site 6B
Site 3
Site 2
Site 6A
Site 1
Site 7
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Site 6C
Permanent Helistop
Site 5
79
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 3.3-5
Permanent Helistop North-Flow Flight Corridors for Santa Ana Wind Conditions
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
(in prevailing wind conditions), arrivals would fly a true heading of 49 degrees to the permanent
Figure 3.3-6
helistop, while departures would fly a true heading of 229 degrees. depicts the
permanent helistop south-flow flight corridors that would primarily be used in prevailing wind
Tables 3.3-7
conditions. Flight corridor use percentages areanticipated to occur asshown in and
3.3-8
.
TABLE 3.3-7
EC-130 HELICOPTER FLIGHT CORRIDOR USE PERCENTAGES – INTERIM LOCATION
DeparturesArrivals
CorridorDayEveningNightCorridorDayEveningNight
10.0%10.0%10.0%90.0%90.0%90.0%
DNEPANEP
90.0%90.0%90.0%10.0%10.0%10.0%
DSWPASWP
100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%
Total
SOURCE: Heliplanners, 2013
TABLE 3.3-8
EC-130 HELICOPTER FLIGHT CORRIDOR USE PERCENTAGES – PERMANENT LOCATION
DeparturesArrivals
CorridorDayEveningNightCorridorDayEveningNight
10.0%10.0%10.0%90.0%90.0%90.0%
DNEPANEP
90.0%90.0%90.0%10.0%10.0%10.0%
DSWPASWP
100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%
TotalTotal
SOURCE: Heliplanners, 2013
3.3-23
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
Site 8
Site 3
Site 6B
Site 2
Site 6A
Site 1
PROJECTPROJECT
Site 7
SITESITE
Site 6C
Permanent Helistop
Site 5
79
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 3.3-6
Permanent Helistop South-Flow Flight Corridors for Prevailing Wind Conditions
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Thresholds of Significance
According to Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines,the proposed project could have a
potentially significant impact with respect to noise if it would:
Expose persons to or generate noise levels in excess of standards established in the local
general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies.
Expose persons to or generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise
levels.
Cause asubstantialpermanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without the project.
Cause asubstantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project
vicinity above levels existing without the project.
For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within 2 miles of a public airport or public use airport, expose people residing or
working in the project area to excessive noise levels.
For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip, expose people residing or
working in the project area to excessive noise levels.
As determined in the Notice of Preparation (NOP)/Initial Study (see Appendix A),
implementation of the proposed project would not result in significant impacts related to
groundborne vibration and groundborne noise, or noiseimpacts related to a public airport.
Therefore, no further analysis of these topics is included.
Temporary Construction Noise
Construction of the approved hospital facility is ongoing as the hospital is being developed in
phases andnoise related impacts associated with construction activities from development of the
helistop and the various hospital structures have been previously analyzed in the previous
environmental documents prepared for the Temecula Valley Hospital (which are described in
Chapter 1, Introduction,of this RDSEIR-2016 and incorporated by reference).
Construction of the proposed helistop locations and storage building would use the same types of
equipment that have been (and would continue to be) used to construct the hospital facilities.
Development of the relocated interim helistop and new storage building would not increase
temporary construction activity noise levels beyond those generated by construction of the other
hospital facilities, which werepreviously analyzed in the approved 2008 Final SEIR. Other
hospital facilities, such as the roadways, parking lots, and future building sites are located closer
to sensitive receptors than the proposed storage building. Hence, the maximum noise from
construction on the project was previously evaluated, and there would be no substantial increase
in construction noise impacts as a result of implementation of the proposed project. Furthermore,
the analysis, findings, and mitigation measures from the previously approved 2008 Final SEIR
and 2011 Addendum to the 2008 Final SEIR are incorporated by reference into this RDSEIR-
2016.
3.3-25
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Helicopter Noise
CNEL Noise Standardsand Impacts
The proposed interim helistop would be located on a mound/berm that would be approximately
5.5 feet above ground level on the westernside of the hospital property at an elevation of
1,060feet above mean sea level (amsl). The permanent helistop is planned to be located on the
roof of a future second hospital tower at an elevation of 1,145 feet amsl. Using the INM, the 60
and 65 dB CNEL contours have been prepared for the interim and permanent helistop locations
Figures 3.3-73.3-8
and are shown in and .The CNELcontours shown on Figures 3.3-7 and 3.3-8
depict noise exposure from helicopter operations only and do not represent the noise exposure
resulting from non-aircraft sources. The interimhelistop 60 dB CNEL contour encompasses
approximately 2.6 acres and the permanent helistop 60 dB CNEL contour encompasses
approximately 3.1 acres. The CNEL contours for the permanent helistop location are larger than
the interim helistop location because the increased elevation reduces the effect of ground
attenuation that occurs with helicopter operations close to the ground. The reduced ground
attenuation allows the sound to propagate further than the interim helistop at ground level.
The City of Temecula General Plan criteria sets noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB
CNEL for low- and medium-intensity housing, and 70 dB CNEL for multi-family housing. The
General Plan uses a CNEL standard that averages noise over 24 hours. The proposed storage
building would be used to store nonhazardous materials such as disaster supplies, “attic stock” for
the hospital, and linens. The storage building would not use any machinery or equipment, except
for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning \[HVAC\]) equipment that is similar to those used in
other hospital buildings. As a result, operation of the proposed storage building would not
generate noise in excess of the City’s General Plan criteria.
As shown in Figures 3.3-7 and 3.3-8, the 60 and 65 dB CNEL contours resulting from the helicopter
flights at both the interim and permanent locations are completely contained on the hospital campus.
Therefore, the average noise increase (CNEL) resulting from the proposed helistop project would not
result in a significant noise impact as defined by the City of Temecula General Plan.
Title 21 of the California State Aeronautics Act also uses CNEL to identify noise impacts and
established that areas exposed to aircraft noise levels less than 65 dB CNEL are considered
compatible with residential uses. As previously noted, the 60 and 65 dB CNEL contours resulting
from the proposed project (shown in Figures 3.3-7 and 3.3-8) are completely contained on the
hospital campus. Therefore, no residential areas would experience a significant noise impact from
the proposed helistop facilities as defined by Title 21 of the State Aeronautics Act.
The Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) criteria (Policy 4.1.4)
states that themaximum CNEL considered normally acceptable fordevelopment of new single-
familyresidential land uses in the vicinity of an air facility is 60 dB. Thus, new single-family
residential uses that are planned within the vicinity of an air facility should have an existing
ambient environment lower than 60 dB CNEL. For other sensitive land uses, including hotels,
places of worship, meeting halls, office buildings, etc., the Riverside County ALUCP defines
65dB CNEL as the maximum allowable noise exposure level.
3.3-26
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Interim Helistop
79
CNEL Contours
60 dB
65 dB
Noise Sensitive
Land Use
0500
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; City of Temecula; USDA
Figure 3.3-7
Interim Helistop CNEL Contours
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Permanent Helistop
79
CNEL Contours
60 dB
65 dB
Noise Sensitive
Land Use
0500
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; City of Temecula; USDA
Figure 3.3-8
Permanent Helistop CNEL Contours
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
The 60 and 65 dB CNEL contours resulting from use of the proposed helistops are completely
contained within the hospital campus(Figures 3.3-7 and 3.3-8).There are no single-family
residential land uses within the 60 dB CNEL contour because it is contained within the hospital
campus. In addition, there are no other sensitive land uses within the 65 dBCNEL contour
because it is also contained within the hospital campus. As a result, no residential areas or other
sensitive uses would experience a significant noise impact as defined by the ALUCP.
Short-Term Noise Standardsand Impacts
The City of Temecula Municipal Code identifies noise standards as 65dB Lmax for single-family
residential units and 65–70 dB Lmax for multi-family residential units.Short-term noise impacts
associated with the interim and permanent helistop locations have been modeled at various
locations surrounding the project site, and are depicted in Figure 3.3-3.Table 3.3-9shows the
single-event (Lmax, the maximum, instantaneous noise level experienced during agiven period
of time)noise levels thatwould be generated as helicopters arrive and depart the interim helistop
at those locations.
TABLE 3.3-9
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE LEVELS FOR THE INTERIM HELISTOP
WEST FLOW EAST FLOW
(Prevailing Winds)(Santa Ana Conditions)
Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
Departure Arrival Departure Arrival
Site Site Description/
Lmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dB
NumberAddress
160.952.0 52.065.6
30390 De Portola Road
230955 De Portola Road73.385.0 85.574.5
adjacent to portion of
Equestrian Trail
359.682.7 77.859.6
31775 De Portola Road
531602 Calle Los Padres 73.273.2 72.875.6
(adjacent to Highway
79)
93.4 100.8
6ADirect Overflight of 76.377.6
Equestrian Trail
6BEquestrian Trail 67.983.590.868.5
Location B
6CEquestrian Trail 81.081.081.085.2
Location C
762.976.971.962.8
Madera Vista
849.780.670.249.6
43941 Via Montalban
975.757.257.283.7
David Ln / Kevin Pl
NOTE: Receptor receiving the greatest noisein each wind condition is indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
3.3-29
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
The duration of the maximum single-event noiselisted in Table 3.3-9 would be limited, occurring
approximately eight times per month (four departureoperationsand four arrival operations) as the
helicopter is approaching and departing the helistop. In prevailing wind conditions (for a majority
of flights to and from the hospital), the noise generated by helicopter flights to and from the
interim helistop would exceed the City’s exterior noise standard at 9 of the 10 receptor sites listed
in Table 3.3-9, and would result in a maximum noise level of 93.4 dB Lmax at Site 6A, the
equestrian trail. In Santa Ana wind conditions, helicopter overflight noise would exceed the
City’s exterior noise standard at all of the receptor sites and result in a maximum noise level of
100.8 dB Lmax at Site 6A, the equestrian trail.
Table 3.3-10
shows the single-event noiselevels(Lmax) that would be generated as helicopters
arrive and depart the permanent helistop that would be locatedon the roof of the future hospital
tower, which would be developedin Phase IVof the hospital development.As shown,in
prevailing wind conditions, noise from helicopter operations to and from the permanent helistop
would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at 9of the 10receptor sites andwouldresult
in a maximum noise level of 89.8dB Lmax at Site 7,theMadera Vistaapartments.InSanta Ana
wind conditions,the exterior short-term noise standard would also be exceeded at 9of the 10
receptor sites and result in a maximum noise level of 87.8dB Lmax at Site 7, the Madera Vista
apartments.
TABLE 3.3-10
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE LEVELS FOR THE PERMANENT HELISTOP
WEST FLOW EAST FLOW
(Prevailing Winds)(Santa Ana Conditions)
Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
Site Departure Arrival Departure Arrival
NumberSite Description/ AddressLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dB
158.848.648.663.6
30390 De Portola Road
271.771.771.773.8
30955 De Portola Road
369.982.282.470.9
31775 De Portola Road
82.184.3
531602 Calle Los Padres 67.467.5
(adjacent to Highway 79)
6A75.175.175.177.5
Equestrian Trail Location A
6B69.869.769.871.0
Equestrian Trail Location B
6C71.967.167.176.3
Equestrian Trail Location C
89.887.8
779.680.5
Madera Vista
853.373.871.853.7
43941 Via Montalban
970.354.154.178.4
David Ln / Kevin Pl
NOTE: Receptor receiving the greatest noisein each wind condition is indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
3.3-30
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
As shown in Tables 3.3-9 and 3.3-10, the greatest helicopter noise would be generated from use
of the interim site at approximately 5.5 feet off of the ground than from the future rooftop
location, where helicopters would be higher and farther from receptors. Similarly, helicopter
noise at sensitive receptors closer to the helistopwould be greater due to the proximity of
helicopters descending to land and ascending to depart the helistop.
The City’s Noise Ordinance (Section 9.20.040) states that noise cannot be generated that would
result in the exterior sound level on single-family residential land uses to exceed 65 dB Lmax,
and 65-70 dB Lmax for multi-family residential. As previously described, use of the interim
helistop would result in exceedance ofthisnoise standard at all of the receptor sites in Santa Ana
wind conditions, and use of the permanent helistop would result in exceedance of the noise
standard at 9outof the 10receptor sites in both prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions.
Therefore,the noise fromhelicopter operations from use of both the proposed interim and
permanent helistops would exceed the exteriornoiselimits identified in the City’s Noise
Ordinance.
Although medical helicopter noise is exempt from the City’s Municipal Code standards (per Code
Section 9.20.030), andflights for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances and cannot
be restricted due to noise (per PUC Section 21662.4. (a)), noise from medical helicopters would
substantially exceed the City’s maximum exterior sound levels for single- and multi-family
residential uses (as identified Tables 3.3-9 and 3.3-10). As a result, implementation of the
proposed project would result in a significant and unavoidable impact related to the exceedance
of noise standards.
Significance Determination:
Significant and Unavoidable.
Increase in Ambient Noise Levels
Ambient noise is measured in CNEL, which averages noise over 24 hours. As described
previously, the proposed storage building would be used for storage ofnonhazardous materials
such as disaster supplies, “attic stock” for the hospital, and linens and would not use any
machinery or equipment except for HVAC equipment, which is similar to the equipment used for
the other hospital buildings. In addition, the storage building would not require or result in
additional traffic trips; thus, traffic-related ambient increases in noise from additional vehicles
trips would not occur. Therefore, operation of the proposed storage building would not result in a
substantial increase in ambient noise levels.
The Riverside County ALUCPidentifies significant impacts resulting from the proposed action
using three criteria: for locations having an existing ambient noise level of 55 dB CNEL or less, a
CNELincrease of 5 dB or more is deemed significant; for locations having an existing ambient
noise level between 55 and 60 dB CNEL, a CNELincrease of 3 dB or more is deemed
significant; and for locations having an existing ambient noise level of more than 60 dB CNEL, a
CNELincrease of 1.5dB or more is deemed significant.
3.3-31
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
As shown in Table 3.3-1, ambient noise in the project vicinity ranges from 57.9 to 78.7 dB
CNEL. The INM was used to calculate the helicopter-generated CNEL, which was compared to
the ambient CNEL values to determine if thereceptor siteswould experience an increase in
CNEL of 3 dB or more at Sites 1 and 2, and 1.5 dB CNEL or more at Sites 3 and 5. As shown in
Tables3.3-11 3.3-12
and , Sites 1 and 2 did not experience an increase of 3 dBCNEL, nor did
Sites 3 and 5 experience an increase of 1.5 dB CNEL from operation of the interim or permanent
helistops.
TABLE 3.3-11
EXISTING AMBIENT NOISEAND CNEL NOISE WITHTHE INTERIM SITE
Difference
Between
Ambient and
Combined
Ambient and Combined
Helicopter Helicopter
Site Description/ AMBIENT Helicopter
Site NumberAddressCNEL, dB CNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dB
1 26.959.60.0
30390 De Portola Road59.6
2 46.659.1+0.2
30955 De Portola Road58.9
3 38.763.50.0
31775 De Portola Road63.5
4 On project site, at offset of N/AN/AN/AN/A
proposed five-story bed
tower
5 31602 Calle Los Padres 78.747.278.70.0
(adjacent to Highway 79)
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
TABLE 3.3-12
EXISTING AMBIENT NOISE AND CNEL NOISE WITHTHE PERMANENT SITE
Difference
Combined Between
Ambient and Ambient and
Site Site Description/ AMBIENT Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
NumberAddressCNEL, dB CNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dB
1 24.059.6 0.0
30390 De Portola Road59.6
2 44.259.0+0.1
30955 De Portola Road58.9
3 43.963.50.0
31775 De Portola Road63.5
N/AN/AN/AN/A
4 On project site, at offset of
proposed five-story bed
tower
5 31602 Calle Los Padres 78.741.378.70.0
(adjacent to Highway 79)
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
3.3-32
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Table 3.3-13
In addition, the helicopter-generated CNEL at Sites 6A through 9 (as listed in )
would be below the ambient noise levels in the project vicinity (57.9 to 78.7 dB CNEL as listed in
Table 3.3-1). Thus, the helicopter noise at these locations would not result in a 1.5 dB or more
increase CNEL ambient noise.
TABLE 3.3-13
HELICOPTER CNELNOISE FOR SITES 6 THOUGH 9
Helicopter CNEL, Helicopter CNEL,
Site dB for dB for
NumberSite Description/ AddressInterim SitePermanentSite
6A*50.847.4
Equestrian Trail Location A
6B*42.642.2
Equestrian Trail Location B
6C*53.540.3
Equestrian Trail Location C
7 37.753.3
Madera Vista
8 37.032.8
43941 Via Montalban
9 35.131.6
David Ln / Kevin Pl
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
Therefore, no residential areas would experience a significant increase in noise as defined by
Section 5.1.2 of the Riverside County ALUCP, and the project would not cause a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity.
Significance Determination:
Less than significant
Substantial Temporary or Periodic Increase in Ambient Noise Levels
in the Project Vicinity and Exposure of Persons to Excessive Noise
Levels
As described previously and listed in Table 3.3-1, ambient noise in the project vicinity ranges
from 57.9 dB to 78.7 dB CNEL. Operation of both the interim and permanent helistops would
result in substantial short-term increases in ambient noise from helicopter overflight. The duration
of the maximumhelicopter noise would be limited and occur as helicopters arrive anddepart the
proposed helistops, which would occur approximatelyeight times a month (four departure
operations and four arrival operations).
As describedpreviously in the methodology discussion, for the purpose of the project’s single-
event noise analysis, it is assumed that project operations would result in a significant impact if
the project would result in an exceedance of the City’s allowable exterior noise levels.
3.3-33
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
In prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of flights to and from the hospital), the periodic
noise generated by helicopter flightsto and from the interim helistop would result in a substantial
short-term increase in ambient noiseat 9of the 10 receptor sites, and would result in a maximum
noise level of 93.4 dB Lmaxat Site 6A, the equestrian trail.
In Santa Ana wind conditions, helicopter overflight noise to and from the interim helistop would
also result in a substantial short-term increase in ambient noise at all of the receptor sites, and
would expose areas to maximum noise levels of 100.8 dB Lmax at Site 6A, the equestrian trail. In
both prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions, the short-term increase in noise from helicopter
operations to and from the interim helistop would be substantially louder than existing ambient
noise levels, and would occur approximately eight times a month.
Use of the proposed permanent helistop inprevailing wind conditions would also result in a
substantial short-term increase in ambient noise at 9of the 10 receptor sites, and would result in a
maximum noise level of 89.8 dB Lmax at Site 7, the Madera Vistaapartments.InSanta Ana wind
conditions, the proposed permanent helistop would also result in a substantial short-termincrease
in ambient noise at 9 of the 10 receptor sites, and would and result in a maximum noise level of
87.8dB Lmax at Site 7, the Madera Vistaapartments.
Helicopter noise would be greater from the interim site at approximately 5.5 feet off of the
ground (resulting in a maximum noise level of 100.8 dB Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditions at
Site 6A, the equestrian trail)than from the future rooftop location, where helicopters would be
higher and farther from receptors and would result in a maximum noise level of 89.8 dB Lmax in
prevailing winds at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments.
In regards to sleep disturbance, as described above, in 2008 FICAN determined that the
population exposed to two indoor noise events of 78 dB in a single night (such as from a
helicopter transport) would result in the probability of awakening of approximately 6 percent of
the population. Based on the data from the 2008 FICAN study, it is assumed that an indoor noise
level of 78 dB would be significant, as this is the sound level at which helicopter noise would
begin to substantially affect the sleepof residents.In addition, based on the anticipated helicopter
use (shown in Table 3.3-6), an average ofone transport (one arrival and one departure operation)
per month would occur.
Typical wood framed residential structures provide exterior to interior noise attenuation of 12 to
17 dBA with open windows and around 20 to 25 dBA with closed windows. Assuming limited
exterior to interior residential structural attention (i.e. 12 dB with open windows and 20 dB with
closed windows) exterior noise levels of 90 and 98 dB would produce respective interior noise
levels of 78 dB with open and closed windows.
Because there are no recognized federal, state, or regional thresholds of significance regarding
number of persons awakened by helicopter operations, the use of the 90 dB exterior noise level,
which assumes windows are open, is used to determineareas exposed to a heightened degree of
potential for sleep disturbance during nighttime helicopter operations.
3.3-34
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
As shown in Table 3.3-9, use of the interim helistop would result in two equestrian trail locations
experiencing helicopter noise in excess of 90 dBA, which do not contain residential structures or
sleeping facilities. All of the other sensitive receptor locations would experience helicopter noise
that is less than 90 dBA. Therefore, use of the interim helistop would not result in helicopter
noise that would substantially affect the sleep of residents.
Additionally as shown in Table 3.3-10, the permanent helistop would result in a maximum noise
level of 89.8 dB Lmax in prevailing wind conditions and a maximum noise level of 87.8 dB
Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditions. Thus, the use of the permanent helistop would not result in
noise levels of 90 dBA, and would also not result in helicopter noise that would substantially
affect the sleep of residents.
In addition to residential sensitive receptors, the equestrian trail is located adjacent to the
perimeter of the hospital site to the north and northwest. Aspreviously discussed, some horses
startle and become frightened at a sudden unidentified noise, such as the onset of aircraft noise
because this noise is abrupt and substantially louder than ambient noise levels. Hence, horses
being ridden along the equestrian trail that bounds the hospital site to the north could startle and
thus a safety hazard at the equestrian trail may occur. Conversely, horses that are accustomed to
various urban noises may not react, and horses that reside locally are generally anticipated to
adjust to the noise after repeated exposure.
To reduce the helicopter-noise-related safety hazard to the equestrian trail, Mitigation Measure
NOI-1 has been included to provide signage at each end of the horse trail to notice riders of the
helistop location and operation and minimize potential conflicts during helicopter operations.In
addition, the measure would require pilots to use and be trained on the approved flight paths,
maintain a log of helicopter activityto ensure compliance with the flight paths,make contact
information for registering noise complaints publicly available,and establish a community
working group that meets periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the
community to discuss helicopter noise issues. However, it would not reduce the limited but
substantial noise levels generated from helicopter overflight from both the interim and permanent
helistops to less than significant levels.
Limitations on medical flights are not allowed pursuant toPUCSection 21662.4. (a), which states
that aircraft flights for medical purposes are exempt from local ordinances that restrict flight
departures and arrivals to particular hours of the day or night, or restrict flights because ofnoise.
As a result, the City cannot restrict helicopter activity at the hospitaltoreduce helicopter noise.
Therefore, impacts related to substantialperiodic increases in ambient noise levelsfrom
helicopter overflights are significant and unavoidable.
MitigationMeasure
NOI-1:
Prior to issuance of a City permitthat allows helicopter operations at the interim helistop;
the Temecula Valley Hospital shall prepare and implement a Heliport Operations Plan which
requires the following measures:
3.3-35
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Prior to helicopter operations, Temecula Valley Hospital shalldevelop and install signage
at both ends of the portion of the equestrian trail that is adjacent to the hospital site. The
signs will notice riders of the helistop location and its operation at the hospital. The sign
will include helicopter noise information and warnings to equestrian users. The Temecula
Valley Hospital will be responsible for the design, preparation, and installation of the
sign, as well as all related costs.
All helicopter operations at the interim and permanent helistop locations shall use the
approved flight paths, unless safety requires adeviation from any of the flight paths.
Temecula Valley Hospital service contracts with air medical companies shall require that
all pilots be routinely trained to ensure that optimum arrival and departure flight paths
procedures are followed for each helicopter type that serves Temecula Valley Hospital.
Pilots would be instructed in the use of the approved approach and departure flight paths.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall maintain a log of helicopter activity that shall include a
detailed record of the type of reason for the trip, and the dates and times of arrival and
departure. If a deviation from prescribed flight paths occurs, the reason for deviationshall
be recorded in the log.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall make contact information for registering noise
complaints publicly available.
Temecula Valley Hospital shall establish a community working group that meets
periodically to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the community to
discuss helicopter noise issues.
Significance Determination:
Significant and unavoidable.
3.3.4Cumulative Impacts
Cumulative noise assessment considers development of the proposed project in combination with
ambient growth and other development projects and activities within the vicinity of the proposed
project. As noise is a localized phenomenon and drastically reduces in magnitude as distance
from the source increases, only projects and ambient growth in the nearby area could combine
with the proposed project to result in cumulative noise impacts. Similarly, the geographic area
associated with cumulativeconstruction noise impacts would be limited to areas directly affected
by helistop noise associated with the proposed project and the locations of the identified
cumulative projects. None of the projects listed in Table 2-1 in Chapter 2, Project Description,
that are near the project site would involve helistop locations or any other aviation-related uses.
Nearby cumulative projects involve commercial, office, and residential development that would
not result in substantial noise generation. Furthermore, there are no proposed uses that would
generate noise, such that it would combine with noise from helicopter flights to result in a
significant cumulative impact.The closest cumulative projects are adjacent to the project site and
consist of a medical office building, a surgery center, and a professional office building. These
uses are complementary and consistent with the hospital uses, and would not generate noise that
would combine with the helicopter noise from the project.
3.3-36
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
3. Environmental Setting, Impacts, and Mitigation Measures
3.3Noise
Helicopter overflight noise would be substantially louder than existing ambient noise levels and
would exceed the City’s Noise Ordinance regulations, as it would be limited to occurring
approximately eight times a month. As described in the 2008 Final SEIR and 2010 Addendum to
the 2008 Final SEIR,ambulance sirens generate maximum noise levels of 94 to 117.5 dB.
However, it is not anticipated that helicopter activity and ambulance sirens would occur at the
same timewithin the same geographic areabecause ambulances would only use theirsirens as
necessary on streets and would not use sirens on the project site; conversely, helicopter
approaches do not follow roadways and the noise from the helicopter would be greatest at the
project site, where ambulance siren noise would not occur.
Because operation of both the interim and permanent helistops would result in substantial short-
term increases in ambient noise from helicopter overflight, single-event noise impacts from
operation of the proposed project at both locationswould be significant and unavoidable.
As described above, feasible mitigation has been requiredto mitigate noise impacts to the extent
practicable. However, flightrelated mitigation measures cannot be placed on this type of medical
helicopter activity by the City of Temecula to reduce noise impacts because the California Public
Utilities Code (PUC) Section 21662.4 states that emergency aircraft flights for medical purposes
are exempt from local restrictions related to flight departures and arrivals based upon the aircraft's
noise level. Accordingly, the City cannot restrict helicopter activity at the hospital for medical
purposes. Thus,given the significance of the single-event noise impacts here, and in an effort to
provide a conservative approach as mandated by CEQA, noise impacts from helicopter operations
are deemed to be cumulatively considerable. Because no mitigation is available that would
reduce the impact to less than significant levels (for the same reason that it is not available on a
project level, namely, the PUC statute), this document conservatively concludes that cumulative,
single-event noise impactsfrom helicopter operations are significant and unavoidable.
Significance Determination
:Significant and Unavoidable.
3.3-37
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary 2016
CHAPTER 4
Project Alternatives
This chapter summarizes the alternatives to the proposed Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop
Project (proposed project)that were evaluated in the original Environmental Impact Report (EIR)
(2006) and 2008 Supplemental EIR (SEIR) and itevaluates a No Project/Existing Condition
Alternative, a No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative, an AlternativeInterim Helistop
SiteAlternative, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative, and the Existing
Hospital Roof Helistop SiteAlternative.
4.1Introduction
This chapter addresses alternatives to the proposed project and describes the rationale for their
evaluation in this Recirculated DraftSEIR(RDSEIR-2016), the environmental impacts associated
with each alternative, and compares the relative impacts of each alternative to those of the
proposed project. In addition, the ability of each alternative to meet the project objectives is
described.
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that an EIR consider a reasonable range
of feasible alternatives (State CEQA GuidelinesSection 15126.6(a)). According to the CEQA
Guidelines, alternatives should be those that would attain most of the basic project objectives and
avoid or substantially lessen one or more significant effects of the project (CEQA Guidelines
Section 15126.6). CEQA Guidelines (Section 15126.6) states that an EIR need not consider every
conceivable alternative to a project. Rather it must consider a reasonable range of potentially
feasible alternatives that will foster informed decision making and public participation. In
addition, CEQA has no ironclad rule governing the nature or scope of the alternatives to be
discussed other than the “rule of reason.” The “rule of reason,” which requires the EIR to set forth
only those alternatives necessary to permit an informed and reasoned choice by the lead agency
and to foster meaningful public participation, which means that the alternatives should be limited
to those that would avoid or reduce the significant effects of the project and that could feasibly
attain most of the basic objectives of the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(f)).
CEQA requires that feasibility of alternatives be considered. As described in CEQA Guidelines
Section 15364, “feasible” means capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a
reasonableperiod of time, taking into account economic, environmental, legal, social, and
technological factors. In addition, Section 15126.6(f)(1) states that among the factors that may be
taken into account in determining feasibility are: site suitability; economic viability; availability
of infrastructure; general planconsistency;other plans and regulatory limitations; jurisdictional
boundaries; and whether the proponent can reasonably acquire, control or otherwise have access
4-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
to an alternative site. Furthermore, an EIR need not consider an alternative whose effects could
not be reasonably identified, whose implementation is remote or speculative, and that would not
achieve the basic project objectives.The alternatives addressed in this RDSEIR-2016 were
identified in consideration of one or more of the following factors:
The extent to which the alternative could avoid or substantially lessen the identified
significant environmental effects of the proposed project
The extent to which the alternative could accomplish basic objectives of the proposed
project
The feasibility of the alternative
The requirement of the CEQA Guidelinesto consider a “no project” alternative, and to
identify an “environmentally superior” alternative in addition to the no project alternative
(Section 15126.6(e))
Pursuant to CEQA, the No Project Alternative shall discuss the existing conditions at the time the
Notice of Preparation was published, as well as what would be reasonably expected to occur in
the foreseeable future if the proposed project were not approved based on current plans (Section
15126.6(e)(3)(c)).
4.2Significant and Unavoidable Impacts
As described inthe analysis in Chapter 3, although medical helicopter noise is exemptfrom the
City’s Municipal Code, the helicopter flights that would result from the proposed project would
result in a substantial exceedance of the City’s allowable noise levels. As a result, implementation
of the proposed project would result in a significant and unavoidable impact related to the
exceedance of the City’s noise standards. In addition, the project would result in substantial
periodic increases in noise that would result in significant and unavoidable impacts after
implementation of mitigation measures. The periodic noise generated by helicopter flights to and
from the interim and permanent helistop locations would result in a substantial increase in short-
term noise events during overflight. In particular, single-event helicopter overflight noise from
the proposed interim helistop location would exceed the City’s noise standard at 9 of the 10
receptor sites (listed in Table 3.3-9), and would result in a maximum noise level of 93.4 decibels
(dB) Lmax at Site 6A, the equestrian trail, in prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of flights
to and from the hospital). In Santa Ana wind conditions, single-event helicopter overflight noise
would exceed the exterior noise limit at all the receptor sites (listed in Table 3.3-9) and result in a
maximum noise level of 100.8 dB Lmaxat Site 6A, the equestrian trail.
The proposed permanent helistop would exceed the exterior noise standard at 9of the 10 receptor
sites in both prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions (as shown in Table 3.3-10), and would
result in a maximum noise level of 89.8 dB Lmax in prevailing wind conditions, and 87.8 dB
Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditions, at Site 7, Madera Vista apartments. Because of this,
operation of the proposed interim helistop and permanent helistop would result in significant and
unavoidable impacts related to generation of noise in excess of applicable standards,substantial
periodic increases in ambient noise levels, and cumulative noise. Feasible mitigation has been
4-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
imposed; however, flight restrictivemitigation measures cannot be placed on medical helicopter
activity to reduce noise impacts because the California’s Public Utilities Code Section 21662.4
states that emergency aircraft flights for medical purposes are exempt from local restrictions
related to flight departures and arrivals based upon the aircraft’s noise level. Thus, impacts would
be significant and unavoidable.
As this is a RDSEIR, it should be noted that the previous CEQA documentation for the overall
hospital project, including helicopter operations from the City-approved helistop, also identified
short-term, periodic significant and unavoidable noise impacts due to helicopter operations.
Therefore, the noise findings of this RDSEIR-2016 are consistent with the previous CEQA
findings.
4.3 Alternatives Analyzedand Eliminated
Previous Alternatives Analyzed
The following project alternatives were examined in the Original Draft EIR dated January 2006:
Alternative 1:No Project – No Build
Alternative 2:No Project – Development Pursuant to Current General Plan
Alternative 3:Alternative Site – Corona Family Properties
Alternative 4:Access from Dartolo Road
Alternative 5:Access from De Portola Road and Dartolo Road
Alternative 6: Construction of Hospital Only
Alternative 6, the Construction of Hospital Only Alternative was determined to be the
environmentally superior alternativein the Original EIR.
The SEIR that was prepared in January 2008 examined New Alternative 7: Former Temecula
Education Center Alternative. However, Alternative 6, Construction of Hospital Only, remained
as the Environmentally Superior Alternative.
Alternatives Analyzed in This Recirculated Draft Supplemental
Environmental Impact Report
The following project alternatives related to the proposed helistop relocation are evaluated in this
RDSEIR-2016:
No Project/Existing Condition Alternative
No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
Future Tower Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative
Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative
4-3
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Alternatives Considered but Eliminated
Alternatives may be eliminated from detailed consideration in an EIR if they fail to meet most of
the project objectives, are infeasible, or do not avoid or substantially reduce any significant
environmental effects (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15126.6(c)). Alternatives that are remote or
speculative, or the effects of which cannot be reasonably predicted, also do not need to be
considered (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15126.6(f)(3)). Per CEQA, the lead agency may make an
initial determination as to which alternatives are feasible and warrant further consideration and
which are infeasible (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15125.6(f)(3)). The following alternatives were
initially considered but were eliminated from further consideration in this RDSEIR-2016 because
they do not meet the majority of the project objectives, do not avoid or substantially lessen
significant impacts, and/or were otherwise determined to be infeasible.
Medical Office BuildingSites or Future Building Sites as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative
Alternatives to use either the planned Medical Office Building (MOB) sites or futurebuilding
sites (as shown in Figure 2-4) as the helistop site were considered but eliminated from further
consideration because these on-site locations are not reasonably available, would not avoid or
substantially lessen significant noise impacts, could result in additional impacts that would not
occur by the proposed project, and/or use of the locationsisinfeasible based on Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics permitting criteria.
Medical Office Building Sites
As described in Section 2.0, Project Description,construction of the hospital campus is occurring
in six phases. Construction of Phase 1, which includes the new 140-bed, five-story hospital, is
complete and the hospital began operations on October 14, 2013. In addition, the sewer, water,
gas, electric, and master drainage infrastructure has been installed for all of the master plan
buildings. The existing infrastructure was designed and sized to serve the MOB sites in their
planned locations andcannot be relocated without reconstructing the existing master
infrastructure, which serves the operating hospital.
MOB 1 Location:
Phase II, which is to occur next, includes development of MOB 1 and a325-
space parking facility; therefore, the location for MOB 1 and its parking facility is not available
for helistop use. Additionally, the location of the MOB 1 site is visible from the existing hospital
parking lot and from Temecula Parkway. The helistop would have security fencing and lighting
that would be more visible in the MOB 1 location than fromthe proposed interim helistop
location.
Furthermore, a helistop at the MOB 1 location would not avoid or substantially lessen the
significant and unavoidable noise impacts that would occur from the proposed project. Because of
the volume of helicopter noise, there is no on-site location that would reduce the significant noise
impacts resulting from helicopter operations to less than significant levels. Thus, use of the MOB
1 location for the interim helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
MOB 2 Location:
Upon completion of Phase II, MOB 2 and a 300 space parking facility would
be developedadjacent to the MOB 1 site. Thus, the MOB 2 location would not be available for
4-4
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
use after Phase II. In addition, there are constraints to utilizing the MOB 2 site for the helistop.
Because ofthe east-west wind conditions in the project area, the flight path required to land and
depart from the MOB 2 site would result in low-altitude helicopters flying over Temecula
Parkway and would result in obstruction clearance constraints with the MOB 1 building
penetrating the transitional surface of the flight path, which is not consistent with Caltrans or
FAA safety regulations and may require either a variance or the path may not be approved by the
agencies, and would result in hazard impacts. In addition, the existing power lines along the
northern side of Temecula Parkway would pose airspace obstruction-clearance impacts and the
power lines would be requiredto include red obstruction lights (requiring Southern California
Edison’s \[SCE’s\] cooperation) or additional red obstruction light poles would need to be installed
on the hospital property, adjacent to Temecula Parkway.Thus, impacts related to hazards and
aesthetics would result from the airspace obstruction and additional red obstruction light poles.
Furthermore, a helistop at the MOB 2 location would not avoid or substantially lessen the
significant and unavoidable noise impacts that would occur by the proposed project. Due to the
volume of helicopter noise, there is no onsite location that would reduce the significant noise
impacts resulting from helicopter operations to less than significant levels. Thus, the use of the
MOB 2 location for use as the interim helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
FutureBuilding Sites
The future building and infrastructure locations that are part of the approved hospital campus
facilities arenot available for the interim helistop location. In addition, none of theselocations
would avoid or substantially lessenthe significant noise impacts resulting from helicopter
operations, and were eliminated from further consideration.
Future Building Site at the Southeast Corner.
Phase II, which is to occur next, entails
installation ofwater-quality infrastructure at the southeast corner of the hospital sitethat includes
an infiltration storm chamber system toreceive drainage from a majority of the site. The
backbone of the drainage system is installed and hasa controlled stormwater outlet system and an
infiltration trench in the center of the existing detention basin, which will capture and convey the
majority of on-sitestormwaterto theinfiltration storm chamber system. The detention basin and
storm chamber area cannot be located under a structure; therefore, this area cannot be used for
either buildings or the interim helistopfacility.
In addition, because ofthe east-west wind conditions, the flight path required for a helistop in the
southeast corner of the hospital site would result in low-altitude helicopters flying over Temecula
Parkway, and would have obstruction clearance constraints related to the trees in the adjacent
drainage that would require approval and permits from state and federal resource agenciesto trim,
and thus impacts related to hazards would occur. In addition, the existing power lines along the
northern side of Temecula Parkway would require additional red obstruction lighting to be
installed, which would result in aesthetic impacts.A helistop in this site is also likely to result in
low-altitude flights over residential areas both to the south of Temecula Parkway (the Country
Glen residential area) and to the east of the drainage (the Madera Vista apartments), which would
result in noise impacts to residential areas.
4-5
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Additionally, the southeast corner of the hospital site is visible from Temecula Parkway and
adjacent land uses and would have security fencing and lighting that would be more visible than
proposed interim helistop. Furthermore, a helistop at the future building site at the southeast
corner of the hospital site would not avoid or substantially lessen the significant and unavoidable
impacts that would occur by the proposed project. As described above,because of the volume of
helicopter noise, there is no on-sitelocation that would reduce the significant noise impacts
resulting from helicopter operations to less than significant levels.Thus, the use of this location
for the interim helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
Future Building Site at the Western Portion of the Site.
Use of the future building site that is
located on the western portion of the project site (shown in Figure 2-4) for the helistop would
result in a flight path that would have low-altitude helicopters flying over Temecula Parkway and
Dona Lynora Road, which are both adjacent to the western portion of the project site and could
result in hazards due to driversdistracted by helicopter operations.
Also, helicopter activity from this location would pose airspace obstruction-clearance conflicts
with the power lines; and thereforewould be required to include red obstruction lights (requiring
SCE’s cooperation) or additional red obstruction lighted poles would need to be installed on the
hospital property, adjacent to Temecula Parkway.As stated, this would result in hazards and
aesthetics impacts.
In addition, low-altitude helicopters would travel over residential area to the south of Temecula
Parkway, the adjacent office uses to the west of Dona Lynora, and likely the equestrian trail and
residential areas adjacent to the north of the hospital site resulting in significant and unavoidable
noise impacts. A helistop at the future building site in the western portion of the project site
would not avoid or substantially lessenthe significant and unavoidable impacts that would occur
by the proposed project, as all on-site helistop locations would result in a significant and
unavoidable impactrelated to noise.
This location would also be required to have a security fence and would be visible from Temecula
Parkway and adjacent uses, and would be more visible than proposed interim helistop, which
would result in greater aesthetic impacts than the proposed project. Thus, the use of this location
for the helistop was eliminated from further consideration.
Future Building Site at the Eastern Portion of the Site.
There isalso a future building site that
islocated in the eastern portion of the hospital site (shown in Figure 2-4) to the south of the City-
approved helistop and to the east of the existing hospital building.This site is closer to sensitive
receptors (Site 7, Madera Vista apartments) than both the proposed interim and City-approved
helistopsites. Asa result, use of this site for the helistop could result in greater impacts to
sensitive receptors than the proposed project and would not reduce the significant and
unavoidable noise impacts that would occur by the proposed project.
In addition, this future building site would have obstruction clearance conflicts related to the trees
in the adjacent drainage (that would require approval and permits from state and federal resource
4-6
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
agencies to trim), which would penetrate the transitional surface of a flight path from this location
and would result in greater hazards impacts than the proposed project.
Thus, the use of the future building site in the eastern portion of the project site for the interim
helistop would result in greater noise and hazards related impacts, and significant and
unavoidable impacts that would occur from the proposed project would not be avoidedor
substantially lessened. Therefore, developing a helistop in this portion of the project site was
eliminated from further consideration.
Future Building Site in the Northern Portion of the Site.
The future building site to the north
of the City-approved helistop site and south of DePortola Road is surrounded by sensitive
receptors that include the equestrian trail, the Los Ranchitos residential area, and other single-
family residential uses along De PortolaRoad.
This site is closer to sensitive receptors (single-family residential uses) than both the proposed
interim and City-approved helistop sites. Noise from helicopter operations from a helistop in this
location would directly impact these sensitive uses to a greater degree than the proposed project;
thus, would not avoid or substantially lessenthe significant and unavoidable noise impacts that
would occur by the proposed project. In addition, the interim helistop would be visible to
travelers along De Portola Road, and impacts related to aesthetics would also occur. Thus,
impacts to sensitive receptors from the helistop and helicopter operations toand from this
location would be greater than the proposed project. Thus, the use of this location for the helistop
was eliminated from further consideration.
4.4 Hospital Project Objectives
The primary objectives of the hospital projectare as follows.
City Objectives
The City’s objectives for the proposed hospital project and the project area are to:
Provide for superior, easily accessible emergency medical services within the City of
Temecula.
Provide for a regional hospital campus,including a hospital facility, medical offices,
cancer center, and fitness rehabilitation center, designed to be an operationally efficient
state-of-the-art facility.
Encourage future development of a regional hospital and related services.
Support development of biomedical, research, and office facilities to diversify
Temecula’s employment base.
Ensure the compatibility of development on the subject site with surrounding uses in
terms of the size and configuration of buildings, use of materials and landscaping, the
location of access routes, noise impacts, traffic impacts, and other environmental
conditions.
4-7
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Incorporate buffers that minimize the impacts of noise, light, visibility of activity, and
vehicular traffic on surrounding residential uses.
Applicant Objectives
The objectives of Universal Health Services, Inc., for the proposed hospital project are to:
Provide high-quality health services to the residents of Temecula and surrounding
communities.
Provide a regional hospital facility that includes standard hospital services, with
outpatient care, rehabilitation, and medical offices.
Provide a regional hospital facility designed to be an operationally efficient, state-of-the-
art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors.
Provide medical offices, a cancer center,and a fitness rehabilitation center adjacent to the
hospital facility to meet the needs of doctors and patients who requireready access to the
hospital for medical procedures.
Proposed Helistop Project
The proposed relocation of the City-approved helistop is consistent with and furthers the project
objectives listed above. Specifically, the proposed helistop site would provide for superior, easily
accessible, operationally efficient, state-of-the-art emergency medical facilities and services
within the City of Temecula that help meet the medical needs of the region. The proposed
helistopfacilities would provide hospital doctors and patients enhancedaccessibility to state-of-
the art medical proceduresat other regional hospitals or specialized hospital facilities. In addition,
the proposed helistop sitewould further the project objectives of providing buffers that minimize
the impacts of helicopter-related noise, hazards, light, and visibility of activity on surrounding
residential uses and ensuring the compatibility of development on the hospital site with
surrounding uses in terms of minimizing potential hazards/safety impacts.
The proposed storage building is an ancillary structure that would assistwith efficient daily
operations of the hospital. It isdesigned to be architecturally consistent with the main hospital
building and would be consistent with project objectives related to providing compatible
development between the project site and surrounding uses.
4.5 No Project/Existing Condition Alternative
Pursuant to Section15126.6(e)(2) of the State CEQA Guidelines, the EIR shall:
“…discuss the existing conditions at the time the notice of preparation is
published, or if no notice of preparation is published, at the time the
environmental analysis is commenced, as well as what would be reasonably
expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the project were not approved,
based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and
community services.”
4-8
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative assumes that the existing condition would
continue and that the City-approved helistop would not be developed. In addition,none of the
required implementation measures, such as installing obstruction lights on the Madera Vista
apartment buildings, realignment of the flight path, adding a second egress/ingress flight path, or
trimming the trees within the drainage adjacent to the hospital that would require approval and
permits from state and federal resource agencies, would be completed. The proposed storage
building would also not be developed.
As described in Section 3.2, Hazards, the hospital currently uses the ground surface at the City-
approved helistop site, which is located near the northeast corner of the hospital, approximately
100 feet from the eastern property line (shown in Figure 2-4), as an Emergency Medical Services
(EMS)landing site when necessary. To ensure safety during EMS medical helicopter operations,
the hospital and the City of Temecula Fire and Police Departments have outlined parameters for
helicopter use of this location. Under the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative, these
procedures would continue.
The California Code of Regulations Title 21 Section 3527(g) states that a site (such as the
hospital) can be used for the landing and taking off of EMS helicopters upon approval of the fire
or police departments because it is located at a medical facility, as long as it averages no more
than six landings per month with patients onboard over a 12-month period.
Currently,the onlyflight path is the original flight path (shown in Figure 2-4) that travels both to
and from the helistop (a true heading of 109 degrees/096 degrees magneticflight corridor) and
crossesover the Madera Vista apartment buildings.However, constraints related to the ground level
landing site and the adjacent apartment building and tree obstructions cause pilots to adjust their
approach and departure routes. In addition, helicopters need to approach and land heading into
prevailing winds for maximum control over the aircraft. Therefore, due to changing wind conditions
and existing obstructions,pilots may divert from the original flight path to provide for a safe flight.
Environmental Analysis
Aesthetics
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would maintain the existing condition and
character of the level unpaved,grass-coveredhelistop location that is locatednear the northeast
corner of the hospital site and surrounded by driveways and a parking area. Existing views of and
from the helistop area of the project site would remain the same;however, the remainder of the
hospital would continue to be constructed, as approved. Light and glare from helicopter
operations would not increase; however, ambient lighting from the remainder of the hospital
buildings and parking areas to be constructed with the approved hospital project would increase
nighttime lighting.
Overall, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would result in fewer impacts than the
proposed project because it would notinstall the 5.5-foot-high berm, obstruction lights on the
existing hospital tower, or any landing site perimeter or lead-in lights, as would occur by the
4-9
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
proposed project. However, both the No Project/Existing Condition Alternativeand the proposed
project would result in less-than-significantimpacts related to aesthetics.
Hazards
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would continue to use the ground surface at the City-
approved helistop site as an EMS landing site when transporting patients via helicopter is necessary.
To ensure safety during EMS medical helicopter operations, the hospital and City of Temecula Fire
and Police Departments have outlined parameters for helicopter use of this location.Under the No
Project/Existing Condition Alternativethese procedures would continue.
The criteria for an EMS landing site do not meet the standards of the FAA’s Heliport Design Guide
or the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics criteria for a helistop, which are providedto ensure a safe
operating environment for pilot, medical personnel, and patients onboard the helicopter as well as for
persons and property on the ground.
As described, the FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics require that a helistopin this location
be elevated 14feet off of the ground to meet airspace obstruction clearance criteria related to
vehicles on the driveways that are adjacent to the site, and that trees located within the drainage
adjacent to the hospital be trimmed to meet obstruction clearance requirements. The FAA also
requires that helistops have a second flight path to meet safety recommendations related to wind
conditions. In addition, Caltrans Aeronautics Division requires that red obstruction lights be added to
the Madera Vista apartment buildings or that the flight path be reoriented toward the south to not
over fly those buildings, which would result in crosswind approaches and departures.
Because the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative usesthe City-approved helistop location as
an EMS landing site, which does not implement any of these features thatare designed toreduce
conflicts with adjacent development and ensure an acceptable level of safety, impacts are greater
than the proposed project.
In addition to not meeting FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics criteria, the one existing flight
path does not allow helicopters to approach and land heading into prevailing windsat all times,
which is necessary for maximum control over the aircraft. Therefore, pilots need to divert from the
existing flight path to provide for the safest flight in various wind conditions. Additionally, pilots
have to maneuver over tall trees in the adjacent off-site drainage, around any vehicles on the
driveways near the existing ground level helistop location, and avoid the adjacent apartments that
would not have obstruction lights installed.
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative, which uses the existing helistop location as an EMS
site does not have on-sitehelistop lighting,that under the proposed project would include perimeter
lights surrounding the touchdown and liftoff (TLOF) area and lead-in lights. As a result, pilots do
not have the benefit of perimeter lights to outline the helistop at night ordirectional lights to follow
during incoming helicopter flights.Therefore, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternativeresults
in increased impacts related to the safety of persons or property on the ground and objects that
extend into the airspace than would occur by the proposed project.
Overall, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would result in greater hazards impacts than
the proposed project, which would be reviewed and implemented pursuant to the helistopsafety
4-10
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
conditions provided by the FAA, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and Riverside County Airport
Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP).
Noise
Construction Noise
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would continue to use the ground surface at the City-
approved helistop site. Construction of helistop facilities would not occur under this alternative;
thus, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would not result in any helistop-related
construction noise. However, construction noise related to development of the remaining approved
hospital buildings would occur and continue under the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative.
CNEL Standards
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would continue to usethe ground surface at the
City-approved helistop location, which is approximately 100 feet from the eastern property line.
Figure 4-1
As shown in , the 65 and 60 dB Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) noise
contours that would be generated under this alternative would be contained within the project site.
The CNEL contours depict noise exposure from helicopter operations only and do not represent
the noise exposure resulting from non-aircraft sources.The City of Temecula General Plan
criteria sets noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB CNEL for low- and medium-intensity
housing, and 70 dB CNEL for multi-family housing. Similarly, Title 21 of the California State
Aeronautics Act and the Riverside County ALUCP have established that aircraft noise levels up
to 65 dB CNEL are considered compatible with residential uses.
Because the 60 dB CNEL contours from the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative are
completely contained within the hospital campus, a significant noise impact as defined by the
City of Temecula General Plan, Title 21, and the Riverside County ALUCP would not occur.
Similarly, the 65 and 60 dB CNEL contours generated by the proposed project (bothinterim and
permanent helistops) would be contained within the project site. As a result, CNEL-related noise
impacts under the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would be less than significant,
which is the same as what would occur by the proposed project.
Increase in Ambient Noise Levels
As described in the Section 3.3, Noise, significant impacts related to permanent increases in
ambient noise (CNEL) would occur if locations with existing ambient noise levels between 55
and 60 dB CNEL result in an increase of 3 dBCNEL,and if locations with existing ambient noise
Table 4-1
levels of more than 60 dB CNEL have an increase of 1.5 dB CNEL. As shown in, all
of the noise measurement locations have existing ambient noise levels greater than 55 dB CNEL,
and two of the locations (Sites 3 and 5) have ambient noise above 60 dB CNEL.
4-11
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Approved Helistop
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
79
CNEL Contours
60 dB
65 dB
Noise Sensitive
Land Use
0500
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; City of Temecula; USDA
Figure 4-1
NOTE: The CNEL contours depict the noise exposure
City Approved Helistop CNEL Contours
from helicopter operations only and do not represent the
noise exposure resulting from non-aircraft sources.
4. Project Alternatives
TABLE 4-1
EXISTING AMBIENT CNEL MEASUREMENTS AND HELICOPTER CNEL NOISEFROM THE
CITY-APPROVED SITE
Combined Difference
AmbientAmbient and Between Ambient
Site Measurement CNEL, Helicopter Helicopter and Combined
NumberSite Description/ AddressPerioddB CNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dB
1 30390 De Portola Road24 hours59.625.859.60.0
2 30955 De Portola Road24hours58.946.959.2+0.3
3 31775 De Portola Road24 hours63.547.563.6+0.1
20 minutesN/AN/AN/AN/A
4 On project site, at offset of
proposed five-story bed
tower
5 31602 Calle Los Padres 24 hours78.734.578.70.0
(adjacent to Highway 79)
NOTES:
Ambient Samples collected by Environmental Science Associates between June 19 and 26, 2014.
A 24-hour noise measurement was not obtained at Site 4 due to the inability to provide adequate security for the equipment.
All instrumentation meets the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) S1.4-1971.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2014.
As shownin Table 4-1, Sites 1 and 2 would not experience an increase of 3 dBCNEL, nor would
Sites 3 or 5 experience an increase of 1.5 dBCNEL. Overall, the greatest increase in noise would
be 0.3 dB CNEL at Site 2, which is below the 1.5 dB threshold. Furthermore, this alternative
would not cause an exceedance of the City of Temecula General Plan criteria, whichsets noise
standards for residential areas at 65 dB CNEL for low- and medium-intensity housing, and 70 dB
CNEL for multi-family housing. As a result, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would
not result ina substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels andimpacts would be less
than significant, which is the same as what would occur by the proposed project.
Short-Term Noise
In addition to the CNEL noise information that averages ambient noise over a 24-hour period,
modeling of single-event noise generated by helicopter operations from the No Project/Existing
Condition Alternative was prepared. As described previously, the No Project/Existing Condition
Alternative would continue to useboth the ground surface at the City-approved helistop location
and the one original flight path (shown in Figure 2-4) thatcrosses over the Madera Vista
Table 4-2
apartment buildings both to and from the helistop. shows the single-event noise that is
generated from the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative as helicopters arrive and depart
using the one original flight path (shown in Figure 2-4).
4-13
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
TABLE 4-2
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE LEVELS FROM THE NO PROJECT/EXISTING CONDITION ALTERNATIVE
Helicopter Arrival Helicopter Departure
Site No.Site LocationLmax, dBLmax, dB
1 48.4 48.5
30390 De Portola
2 75.5 74.1
30955 De Portola
3 76.4 74.6
31775 De Portola
5 62.5 60.5
31602 Calle Los Padres
6A77.175.7
Equestrian Trail
6B75.075.0
Equestrian Trail Overflight
6C65.364.2
Equestrian Trail
7 94.096.0
Madera Vista
8 57.455.1
43941 Via Montalban
9 51.851.1
David Ln / Kevin Pl
NOTE: Receptor receiving the greatest noise from arrivals and departuresis indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
Level of Noise Impact:
As described in the Section 3.3, Noise, significant impacts related to ashort-
term increase in noise from helicopter operations would occur if the project results inan exceedance
of the City’s allowable exterior noise levels.
As with the proposed project, the duration of the maximum single-event noise would be limited in
frequency occurring approximately eight times per month (four departures and four arrival flights),
but would result in a substantial short-term increase in ambient noise. The short-term noise that
would resultfrom helicopters using the one existing flight path would have the greatest impact at
Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments, resulting in a maximum of 94.0 dB Lmax during arrivals and
96.0 dB Lmax during departures, which is a substantial short-term increase in ambient noise.
In comparison, helicopter overflight noise from the proposed project would be greatest inSanta
Ana wind conditions during use of the proposed interim helistop location, which could expose
receptors to noise levels of up to 100.8 dB Lmax at Site 6A, the equestrian trail. Because the No
Project/Existing Condition Alternativeis anticipated to result in a maximum noise level of 96.0
dB Lmax in a southeastern (similar as Santa Ana winds) flight path, it is anticipated to result in a
maximum noise level at receptors of 4.8 dB Lmax less than what would occur from operation of
the proposed interim helistop.
However, for a majority of helicopter operations (the interim and permanent helistop in prevailing
winds), the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would result in a maximum single-event
noise level that would be greater than that from the proposed project (94.0 and 96.0 Lmax dB for
No Project/Existing Condition Alternative compared to 93.4 and 89.8 Lmax dB for interim and
4-14
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
permanent helistops). Moreover, the maximum noise level at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments,
would be substantially lower under both the interim and permanent helistop locations than as
compared to the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative.
Receptor Sites Impacted:
Table 4.2also shows that the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative
would result inhelicopter overflight noise that would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard
at 6of the 10receptor sites during arrivals, and at 5 of the 10 receptor sites during departures.
In comparison, the proposed interim helistopwould exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at
9of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing wind conditions and at all receptor sites in Santa Ana wind
conditions. The proposed permanent helistop would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at
9of the 10 receptor sites in both prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions. Thus, compared to the
proposed project, thehelicopter overflight noise from the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative
would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at fewer receptor locations in both prevailing
and Santa Ana conditions. However, maximum short-term noise levels at the 6impacted receptor
sitesduring arrivals, and the 5 impacted receptor sites during departures from the No
Project/Existing Condition Alternative would occur more frequently than the proposed project due to
the single flight path used for both arrivals and departures.
In addition, because pilots may need to adjust their approach and departure routes based on
conditions at the time of the flight under the No Project/Existing Condition Alternativebecause of
prevailing winds, trees in the drainage, and the existing hospital building, actual helicopter noise at
sensitive receptors would vary and could be higher.
Short-Term Noise Conclusion:
Similar to the proposed project, the No Project/Existing Condition
Alternative would result in significant unavoidable impacts related to noise because the noise from
helicopter overflight under this alternative would be substantially louder than both the City’s
allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levels,and would occur approximately eight times a
month (four arrival flights and four departure flights). However, the No Project/Existing Condition
Alternative would result in a maximum single-event noise level that would be greater than with the
proposed project for a majority of flights to and from the hospital. Moreover, although less receptor
sites would exceed the short-term noise standard, the affected receptor sites wouldbe impactedmore
frequently due to the single flight path used for both arrivals and departures, and actual helicopter
noise at sensitive receptors could be higher due to variations in the flight path. As such,noise
impacts from the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would be similar or potentially greater
than fromthe proposed project.
Conclusion
The No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would result in fewer impacts related to aesthetics
than the proposed project’s less-than-significantimpactsbecause the helistop facility would not
be developed and helistop lighting would not be installed.
However, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would result ingreater impacts related to
hazards andsimilar or potentially greater impacts related tonoise than the proposed project. The
significant and unavoidable noise impacts would not be reduced under this alternative, and
4-15
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
additional or more intense impacts could result that would not occur from the proposed project.
Therefore, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative is not environmentally superior
compared to the proposed project.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative would
(consistent with the proposed project) only partially meet the project objectives of providing
superior, easily accessible emergency medical services within the City of Temeculabecause the
helicopter does transport patients as necessary. However, because existing use of the EMS site
has not completed full FAA and Caltrans Aeronautical review and approval, and has variedflight
patterns due to wind conditions and pilot discretion, the No Project/Existing Condition
Alternative would not meet the objective of ensuring compatibility of development with
surrounding uses in terms of access routes, noise impacts, hazards impacts, and other
environmental conditions to the same extent as the proposed project.
4.6 No Project/City-ApprovedHelistopAlternative
The No Project/City-Approved HelistopAlternative assumes that none of the requested project
approvals are granted, and that the proposed storage building would not be developed and that the
City-approved helistop site would be developed. The City-approved helistop wouldinclude a 60-foot
by 60-foot helistop that would be located near the northeast corner of the hospital, approximately
100 feet from the eastern property line (shown in Figure 2-4, City-Approved Helistop Site). The
helistop in this location would be developed on a 5.5-foot-high berm to meet airspace obstruction
clearancecriteria for vehicles on the adjacent driveways. This alternative would include the original
City-approved flight path that would travel both to and from the helistop over the recently
constructed Madera Vista apartment buildings in a southeasterly direction (a true heading of 109
degrees/096 degrees magneticflight corridor), and a second flight path (true heading of 285
degrees/272 degrees magnetic, which was listed as a condition inthe FAA’s airspace determination
letter) that would travel both to and from the helistop over the Los Ranchitos single-family
Figures 4-2 4-3
residential areas north of the project site. These flight paths are shown in and. As
described in Section 2.4, Project Description, prevailing winds in the project region is to the east,
except during occasional Santa Ana wind conditions that blow westward. As a result, helicopters
would generally approach the City-approved helistop site from the east, flying northwest bound into
the wind to land at the helistop, and would also take off in a northwest-bound direction. During
Santa Ana or westbound wind conditions, which occur occasionally, helicopters would approach
from the west flying southeast bound to land at the site, and take off also in an southeast-bound
direction.
4-16
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Site 8
Site 6B
Approved Helistop
Site 3
Site 2
Site 6A
Site 1
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Site 7
Site 6C
Site 5
79
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 4-2
City Approved Helistop East-Flow Flight Corridors
for Santa Ana Wind Conditions
Site 8
Approved Helistop
Site 6B
Site 3
Site 2
Site 6A
PROJECTPROJECT
Site 1
Site 7
SITESITE
Site 6C
Site 5
79
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 4-3
City Approved Helistop West-Flow Flight Corridors
for Prevailing Wind Conditions
4. Project Alternatives
The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative may also install obstruction lights on the top
of the two-story Madera Vista apartment buildings as required by Caltrans Division of
Aeronautics.The ability to install the off-site lighting on the roof of the apartment buildings is not
under the control of the applicant or the City, but these lights would be requested to be installed
by the owner of the apartment buildings—which would not be required for the proposed project.
If the owner of the apartment buildings refused to install the lights, the applicant would be
required to rotate the southeastern flight path clockwise as required by Caltrans Aeronautics,
resulting in frequent crosswind conditions for pilots during approaches and departures.
Environmental Analysis
Aesthetics
Like the interim helistop site for the proposed project, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop
Alternative would require installation of lighting fixtures for nighttime operations. The No
Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would direct the installation and use red obstruction
lights on the adjacent apartment buildings that would be photocell-controlled for dusk-to-dawn
operation. As described above, the installation the off-site lighting on the roof of the apartment
buildings is not under the control of the applicant or the City, but these lights would be requested to
be installed by the owner of the apartment buildings. These lights would not be required for the
proposed project. Other new lighting would include 12 green flush-mounted perimeter lights
surrounding the TLOF,five green lead-in lights aligned with the primary approach path from the
northeast, and a 16-foot tall lighted windcone. Lighting under this alternative(perimeter lights, lead-
in lights and local lighted windcone) would be activated only for nighttime landings or takeoffs and
is proposed in accordance with Caltrans Division of Aeronautics standards.
Should the lighting on the roof of the apartment buildings be installed by the owner of the apartment
buildings, the additional lighting would be outside of the project site and would be red and visible to
the occupants of the apartment buildings and adjacent residences. The other lighting associated with
helicopter takeoff/landing events would be within the hospital’s grounds and would largely be
shielded by intervening landscaping.Because the red obstruction lights could be located off-site at
the Madera Vista apartment buildings under this alternative, this alternative would result in greater
lighting related impacts than the proposed project.
In addition, implementation of the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would require
(per FAA and Caltrans Aeronautics) reducing the height of the large row of mature trees that are
in a drainage located adjacent to the east of the project site, which would require approval and
permits from state and federal resource agencies to trim. Should these trees be reduced, removed,
or cut as a result of the helistop project, aesthetic impacts that are greater than the proposed
project (that would not result in tree trimming) would occur. Overall, this alternative would result
in greater impacts than the proposed project’sless-than-significantaesthetic impacts.
Hazards
The helistop site that would be developed under the No Project/City-Approved Helistop
Alternative has undergone review and approval by the FAA and the Caltrans Division of
Aeronautics. The reviews conducted by these agencies evaluate the effects the helistop would
4-19
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
have on the safety of persons or property on the ground and objects that extend into the airspace.
However, since the original approval of the helistop, the FAAhas issued newregulations and
new residential uses have been constructed within the flight path. As a result, the No Project/City-
Approved Helistop Alternative has been conditioned to include a second flight path to meet FAA
safety recommendations related to prevailing wind conditions. In addition, because the new
residential uses are within the currentCity-approved flight path, Caltrans Aeronautics Division
requiresTemecula Valley Hospitaltoeither rotate the single proposed flight path clockwise
(approximately 36 degrees) to clear the Madera Vista multi-family residences to the east,
resulting in a near crosswind condition for pilots on approach or departure, or arrange for red
obstruction lights to be installed on the residential buildings. Also, as described previously,
approval and permits from state and federal resource agencies are required,but have not been
obtained, totrim the trees in the drainage adjacent to the hospital to meet obstruction height
requirements. In addition, the installation the off-site lighting on the roof of the Madera Vista
apartment buildings is not under the control of the applicant or the City; thus, implementation of
these safety features cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop
Alternative would result in potentially greater hazards impacts than the proposed project.
Noise
Construction Noise
As described in Section 3.3, Noise,construction of the proposed project would not substantially
change, and would not increase, construction noise impacts beyond those identified for the
hospital project by the previous CEQA documentation in 2006 EIR, 2008 SEIR, and 2011 SEIR
Addendum (described in Section 1.3 of this RDSEIR-2016 and incorporated by reference).Under
the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative, the proposed helistop locations and storage
building would not be constructed; however, construction noise associated with the City-
approved helistopand the phased development of theother hospital facilities would continue. The
approved and proposed construction activities are within the same portions of the project site, just
the locationsof the facilities have changedand an additional 5,000 square feet of building space
would be developed. The locations of development would have the same general distance to
sensitive receptors, which include the adjacent residential uses and the hospital itself. Therefore,
impacts related to construction noise under the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
would be similar to those currently occurring and proposed to occur by the proposed project.
CNEL Standards
The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would be developed onea 5.5-foot-high
berm at the City-approved helistop location, and would result in the same CNEL contours as the
No Project/Existing Condition Alternative, which uses the existing ground surface at the same
location. Thus, asshown in Figure 4-1, the 65 and 60 dB CNEL contours from the No
Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative are contained within the project site.
Because the 60 dB CNEL contours from use of the City-approved helistop site are completely
contained on the hospital campus, a significant noise impact as defined by the City of Temecula
General Plan, Title 21, and the Riverside County ALUCP would not occur. Similarly, the 65 and
4-20
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
60 dB CNEL contours generated by the proposed project (both interim and permanent helistops)
would be contained within the project site. As a result, CNEL-related noise impacts under the No
Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would be the same as the proposed project.
Increase in Ambient Noise Levels
As describedpreviously, both the No Project/Existing Condition Alternative and the No
Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would use the same helistop location. The single
location would result in the same CNEL noisefor both alternatives.As shown inTable 4-1, Sites
1 and 2 would not experience a CNEL increase of 3 dB, nor would Sites 3 or 5 experience a
CNELincrease of 1.5 dB from operation of the City-approved helistop. Overall, the greatest
increase in noise would be 0.3 dB CNEL at Site 2, which is below the 1.5 dB CNEL threshold.
Furthermore, this alternative would not cause an exceedance of the City of Temecula General
Plan criteria, which sets noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB CNEL for low- and
medium-intensity housing, and 70 dB CNEL for multi-family housing. As a result, the No
Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativewould not cause a substantial permanent increase in
ambient noise levels and impacts would be less than significant, which is the same as what would
occur fromthe proposed project.
Short-Term Noise
As with the proposed project, the duration of the maximum single-event noise generated by the
No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativeis very limited in length and frequency,
occurring approximately eight times per month (four departures and four arrival flights).
However, asshown in Figures 4-2 and 4-3, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
would include flight paths directly over residential uses that are adjacent to two sides of the
Table 4-3
hospital property and the planned equestrian trail. shows the single-event noise at
receptor sites (shown in Figure 4-2) that would be generated by the No Project/City-Approved
Alternative.
Level of Noise Impact:
As described above, an impact related to short-term single-event noise
would occur if helicopter operations results in exceedance of the City’s allowable exterior noise
levels.The short-term noise generated by helicopter flights to and from the City-approved
helistop has the greatest impact at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments, where it results in a
maximum noise level of 94.0 dB Lmax in prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of flights)
and 96.0 dB Lmaxin Santa Ana wind conditions, which would be a substantial short-term
increase in ambient noise.
In comparison, helicopter overflight noise from the proposed interim helistop location would be
greatest in Santa Ana wind conditions during use of the interim helistop location that could
expose receptors to noise levels of up to 100.8 dB Lmax at Site 6A, the equestrian trail.Because
the No Project/City-Approved HelistopAlternativeis anticipated to result in a maximum noise
level of 96.0 dB Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditions at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments,it is
anticipated to result in a maximum noise level at receptors of 4.8 dB Lmax less than what would
occur from operation of the proposed interim helistop.
4-21
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
TABLE 4-3
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE LEVELS – NO PROJECT/CITY-APPROVED HELISTOPALTERNATIVE
WEST FLOWEAST FLOW
(Prevailing Winds)(Santa Ana Conditions)
Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
SiteDeparture Arrival Departure Arrival
No.Site LocationLmax,dBLmax, dBLmax,dBLmax, dB
1 64.448.4 48.566.4
30390 De Portola
2 85.775.5 74.184.9
30955 De Portola
3 74.476.4 74.675.9
31775 De Portola
5 60.562.5 60.561.8
31602 Calle Los Padres
6A79.677.175.780.5
Equestrian Trail
6B93.675.075.093.6
Equestrian Trail Overflight
6C70.465.364.271.8
Equestrian Trail
7 77.294.096.077.1
Madera Vista
8 55.157.455.155.9
43941 Via Montalban
9 55.951.851.158.5
David Ln / Kevin Pl
NOTE: Receptors receiving the greatestnoise ineach wind condition is indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
However, for a majority of helicopter operations (prevailing winds at the interim and permanent
helistops), the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative results in a maximum single-event
noise levels that is greater than would be generated by the proposed project (94.0 Lmax dB for
No Project/City-Approved Alternative compared to 93.4 and 89.8 Lmax dB for interim and
permanent helistops). Moreover, the maximum noise level at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments,
and at Site 6B, an Equestrian Trail Overflight Location, would be substantially greater than would
be generated under both the interim and permanent helistop locations.
Receptor Sites Impacted:
Table 4-3 also shows that the No Project/City-Approved Helistop
Alternative would result in helicopter overflight noise that would exceed the exterior short-term
noise standard at 6 of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing wind conditions and7 of the 10 receptor
sites inSanta Ana wind conditions. In comparison, the proposed interim helistop would exceed the
exterior short-term noise standard at 9 of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing wind conditions and at all
receptor sites in Santa Ana wind conditions. In addition, the proposed permanent helistop would
exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at 9 of the 10 receptor sites in both prevailing and
Santa Ana wind conditions.
Thus, compared to the proposed project, the helicopter overflight noise from the No Project/City-
Approved Helistop Alternative would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at fewer receptor
locations in both prevailing and Santa Ana conditions. Additionally, receptor Sites 5, 8 and 9, which
4-22
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
are located furthest away from the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
northwest/southeast flight path, would generally experience lower maximum short-term noise levels
than fromthe proposed project.Although, receptor sites 6Band 7, which are located closest to the
No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative northwest/southeast flight path, would experience
greater maximum short-term noise levels than the proposed project.
Also, the second flight path that was provided as a condition in the FAA’s airspace determination
letter that would be implemented under this alternative would flyover the Los Ranchitos single-
family residential areas north of the hospital site, which would directly expose the area to
helicopter noisethat would be greater than under the proposed project. As shown in Table 4-3,in
prevailing wind conditions Site 2 would experience a maximum noise of 85.7 dB Lmax and Site
6B, the equestrian trail location adjacent to the Los Ranchitos area,would be 93.6 dB Lmax.In
Santa Ana wind conditions Site 2 would experience a maximum noise of 84.9 dB Lmax and Site
6B would be 93.6 dB Lmax.
Short-Term Noise Conclusion:
Similar to the proposed project, the No Project/City-Approved
Helistop Alternativewould result in significant unavoidable impacts related to noise because the
noise from helicopter overflight under this alternative would be substantially louder than both the
City’s allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levels andwould occur approximately eight
times a month (four arrival flights and four departure flights).
The No Project/City Approved Helistop Alternative would generate 0.6 dB Lmax greater noise in
prevailing wind conditions and 4.8 dB Lmax less noise in Santa Ana wind conditions as
compared to the proposed interim helistop. This alternativewouldalsogenerate 4.2 dB Lmax
greater noise in prevailing wind conditions, and 8.2dBLmax less noisein Santa Ana wind
conditionsin comparison to the proposed permanent helistop.Therefore, for a majority of
helicopter operations, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativewould result in greater
single-event noise than the proposed project.
However, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativewould exceed the exterior short-
term noise standard at fewer receptor locations than both the proposed interim and permanent
helistops under both prevailing and Santa Ana conditions.
Overall, because thehelicopter overflight noise would result in greater single event noise thanthe
proposed project for a majority of helicopter operations, but exceed the exterior short-term noise
standard at fewer receptor locations under prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions than the
proposed interim and permanent locations,and the 96.0 dBLmax noise generated from helicopter
operation under this alternative wouldresult in a maximum noise level at receptors of4.8 dB
Lmax less than the maximum single-event noise that would occur under the proposed project
(100.8dBLmax),the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativewould result insimilar or
slightly reducedsingle-event noise impactscompared tothe proposed project.
However,like the proposed project, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative would
result in a significant unavoidable impact related to noise because the noise from the No
Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativewould be substantially louder than both the City’s
4-23
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levelsand would directly impact residential areas
by helicopter overflight.
Conclusion
The No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativewould result in greater impacts than the
proposed project’s less-than-significantimpactsrelated to aesthetics andhazards, and similar or
slightly reduced noise impacts that would continue tobe significant and unavoidable. Therefore,
the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativeis not environmentally superior compared to
the proposed project.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternative
would (consistent with the proposed project) meet the project objectives of providing superior,
easily accessible emergency medical services within the City of Temecula.However, it would not
meet the objectivesof ensuring compatibility of development with surrounding uses in terms of
access routes, hazards impacts,aesthetics (lighting), and other environmental conditions to the
same extent as the proposed project.
4.7AlternativeInterim Helistop Site
The Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould develop the proposedinterim helistopat
a different location on the project site. The alternative interim site would be at ground level in the
southwestern portionof the project site, approximately 144 feet north of Temecula Parkway and
Figure4-4
approximately 275 feet from the western boundary of the project siteas shown in .
This alternative would include an east-westflight paththat would cross the front of the hospital
siteasitruns parallel to (and 144 feet north of) Temecula Parkway. It would also travel over
existing commercial and institutional uses (i.e., the Rancho Community Church and Christian
Figure 4-5Figure 4-6
Schools). depicts thenortheast-flow flight corridors anddepicts the
southwest-flowflight corridors for the alternative interim helistop site. This helistop would
include the same design, lighting, and security features as the interim helistop described in
Chapter 2, Project Description. However, red obstruction lights would also be required on(or
next to)severalSouthern California Edison (SCE)power poles along Temecula Parkway to warn
pilots of the pole locations at night. Implementation of this alternative would require helistop and
flight path designs pursuant to all applicable aeronautical agencies criteria (Riverside County
ALUC, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and FAA).
As described in Section 2.4, Project Description, prevailing winds in the project region is to the
east, except during occasional Santa Ana wind conditions that blow westward. As a result of wind
direction, helicopters would generally approachthe project sitefrom the east, flying westbound
into the wind to land at the helistop; and would also take off in a westbound direction. During
Santa Ana or westbound wind conditions, which occur occasionally, helicopters would approach
from the west flying eastbound to land at the site, and take off also in an eastbound direction.
Both of these flight corridors are shown in Figures 4-5and 4-6.
4-24
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Site 8
Site 6B
Site 3
Site 2
Site 7
Site 6A
Site 1
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Site 6C
79
Alternative Helistop
Site 5
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
Figure 4-5
Alternative Interim Helistop North-Flow Flight Corridors
for Santa Ana Wind Conditions
Site 8
Site 6B
Site 3
Site 2
Site 7
Site 6A
Site 1
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
Site 6C
79
Alternative Helistop
Site 5
Site 9
Site Locations
Flight Corridors
Arrivals
Departures
01000
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; USDA
444444444A
444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444444A
44444444444444444444444444444A
4. Project Alternatives
It should be noted that this alternative interim helistop site only applies to the proposed interim
helistop and does not affect the proposed permanent helistop, which is proposed on the roof of the
future hospital tower, or the location, design, or operation of the proposed 5,000-square-foot
storage building.
Aesthetics
The Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would install lighting fixtures for nighttime
operations that would be similar to the proposed interim site. In addition, this alternative would
be required to install red obstruction lights on several SCE power poles along Temecula Parkway
(shown in Figure 4-4) due to their proximity to the alternative interim helistop site and because
the FAA identifies power lines and poles as “hard to see” objects from the air, especially at night.
Should SCE not allow modification of these poles, new poles with red lighting would be required
to be installed on hospital property adjacent to the existing light poles to ensure adequate
obstruction lighting for this flight path. One of the existing power poles is located directly south
of the site and would penetrate the southern 2:1 transitional surfaceof this proposed flight path,
because of this a variance to regulations related to transitional surface penetration would be
required from Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. However, this variancecould only be granted if
this light pole would be lighted at night with red obstruction lights.If installed on the SCEpoles,
thelightswould likely be on a dusk-to-dawn photocell system, and be on all night. If the hospital
installs the lighting poles along Temecula Parkwaythelightswould be connected to the helistop
lighting system and activated only for nighttime helicopter operations. Either way, with the
additional lighting on SCE poles along Temecula Parkway that would be on all night, or with the
additional lighting poles along Temecula Parkway that would be operated during nighttime
helicopter operations and visible all day along the roadway, implementation of the Alternative
Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in greater aesthetic impacts than those of the
proposed project. This alternative would result in additional nighttime lighting, and potentially
additional lighting pole structures along the roadway.
Like the proposed site, thealternative interimhelistopsitewould be surrounded by an
approximate5-foot-tall security fence.However, unlike the proposed project, the helistop would
not be screened behind other planned hospital facilities and parking areas. The alternative interim
helistop site and the security fence would be much more visible from travelers along Temecula
Parkway.
The storage facility that would be constructed under this alternative would include the same
massing and design features and exterior lighting features that would occur under the proposed
project and would result in the same less-than-significantaesthetic impacts.
Therefore,because this alternative would result in a more visible helistop surrounded by security
fencing,and additional lighting and potentially lighting poles,this alternative has greater aesthetic
impacts than the proposed project’sless-than-significantimpacts.
4-29
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Hazards
The Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be located 114feet north of Temecula
Parkway, which is lined with aboveground power poles and transmission lines on the same side
of the street as the proposed project. The flight path required for this site (because ofthe
prevailing winds at the project site) is an east-west flight path that would runparallel toTemecula
Parkway. One existing power pole would penetrate the southern 2:1 transitional surfaceof the
interim alternative site’s flight path and the planned MOB2would penetrate the northern
transitional surface.
Thealternative interimsite’sflight path along Temecula Parkway would cause an additional
hazard related to one power pole located directly south of the site, and additional red obstruction
lighting along Temecula Parkwaywould be requiredalong witha variance for a transitional
surface penetration from Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. If SCE does not install obstruction
lights on its existing poles, the site would require additional poles equipped with obstruction
lights to be erected on hospital property between the SCE poles and the helistop. This introduces
new, closer airspace obstructions. Further, itis the policy of the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics
toonlygrant variances forone side of a flight path. Therefore, Caltrans Aeronautics would not
grant a variance for power lines that would penetrate the southern transitional surface and a
second variance for MOB2 that would penetrate the northern transitional surface.The planned
building, along with the already developed underground utilities,would need to be relocated or
reconfigured so that it would not penetrate the transitional surface.Overall, the need for a
variance for implementation of the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative that is not
needed for the proposed project indicates that potential hazards impacts related to the alternative
interimhelistop site are greater thanthat of the proposed interim helistop site.
As shown in Figure 4-5, the flight path of the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativein
prevailing winds, not only travels parallel to Temecula Parkway, a major arterial and state
highway, but also across the frontage of the existing hospital and flights would land on the
helistop on the ground. Hence, the helicopters would reduce altitude (or increase altitude) as they
cross the frontage of the operating hospital site and land on the helistopthat is 114feet away from
Temecula Parkway. This helicopter activity would be adjacent to pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle
travelers on the roadway and would be large-scale forefront activity;and increased risk of driver
and bicyclist distraction along TemeculaParkway during helicopter operations, could increase
traffic accident potential,or could cause confusion/distraction to patientsand visitorsenteringthe
facilityby personal vehicle.In addition, helicopter landings and take-offs 114feet away from
Temecula Parkway could impact pedestriansafety along the sidewalk that front the hospital and
bicyclistsafety on Temecula Parkwaydue to rotorwash(winds generated from the helicopter).
In comparison, the flight pathof the proposed interim helistop (shownin Figure2-4) would travel
from behind the existing and planned hospital facilities, and would cross (not travel along)
Temecula Parkway at a location farther away from the hospital that would provide the distance
and trajectoryto be far above the roadway to not cause the distraction that could be caused by the
Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative.
4-30
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
The location of theproposedinterim helistop is in the northwestern portion of the project site
toward the rear of the hospital facilities, and helicopter activity at theproposedinterim site would
consist ofmiddle ground activity, with parking lot and hospital facilities in the foreground. The
middle ground helicopter activity would be buffered from Temecula Parkway by other hospital
uses, including medical office buildings, which would reduce distraction to travelers along the
roadwayin comparison to the Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative.
In addition, the proposed flight path would not travel above or cross vehicular pathsfrom
Temecula Parkway through the hospital site to the emergency room(such as would be done by
the alternative interim helistop site), and would not result in the level of potential confusion for
persons in an emergency situation to accessthe emergency room that could occur from the
Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative flight path.Also, because helicopter landings and
takeoffs would be not be adjacent to Temecula Parkway andwould bebuffered by hospital
facilities,safety concerns related to pedestrians along the sidewalk that front the hospital and
bicyclists on Temecula Parkway would not occur, asit could by the AlternativeInterimHelistop
Site Alternative.Overall, the Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative results ingreater
potentially significantimpacts related to hazards than the less-than-significantimpacts that would
occur fromthe proposed interim helistop site.
Noise
Construction Noise
Construction of this alternative would not result in any changes related to construction noise and
construction noise impacts would be the same under this alternative as would occur under the
proposed projectand the No Project/City-Approved Helistop Alternativeas described above.
CNEL Standards
Figure 4-7
shows the CNEL noise contours that would result from the Alternative Interim
Helistop Site Alternative. As shown, the 65 dB CNEL contour would remain within the project
site; the 60 dB CNEL contour crosses the mid-line of Temecula Parkway.In comparison, the 60
and 65 dBCNEL contours from theproposedinterim helistop site (shown in Figure3.3-7) would
remainwithin the project site. Hence, 60 dB CNEL contours from both the proposed interim and
the alternative interim sites would remain within the hospitalsite.
The City of Temecula General Plan criteria set noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB
CNEL for low-and medium-intensity housing. Similarly, Title 21 of the California State
Aeronautics Act and the Riverside County ALUCP have also established that areas exposed to
aircraft noise levels to a maximum of 65 dB CNEL are considered compatible with residential
uses. Because the 60 and 65 dB CNEL contours from the Alternative Interim Helistop Site
Alternative are completely contained on the hospital campus, a significant noise impact as
defined by the City of Temecula General Plan, Title 21, and the Riverside County ALUCP would
4-31
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
PROJECTPROJECT
SITESITE
79
Alternative Helistop
CNEL Contours
60 dB
65 dB
Noise Sensitive
Land Use
0500
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA; INM 7.0d; City of Temecula; USDA
Figure 4-7
Alternative Interim Helistop Location CNEL Contours
4. Project Alternatives
not occur. The CNEL noise contour impacts from the Alternative Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would be the same as what would occur at the interim site of the proposed project.
With 65 and 60 dB CNEL contours contained within the project site, CNEL-related noise impacts
would be less than significant.
Increase in Ambient Noise Levels
The Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative would be located closer than theproposed
interim siteto Temecula Parkway and thesingle-familyresidential neighborhood across (south
of) Temecula Parkway where existing ambient noise levels are 78.7 dB CNEL. As shown on
Table 4-4
, the alternative sitewould increase noise at Site 2 by 0.1 dBCNEL and the remainder
of the sites, including the residential across Temecula Parkway, would not experience an increase
in CNEL noise. In comparison, the proposed projectwould result in an increase in ambient noise
by 0.2 dBCNEL at Site 2 and 0.1 dBCNEL increase at Site 3 (Table 3.3-9).
TABLE 4-4
EXISTING AMBIENT CNEL NOISE AND HELICOPTER NOISE FROM THE ALTERNATIVE INTERIM
SITE
Difference
between
Combined Ambient and
Ambient and Combined
Site Site Description/ Measurement Ambient Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
NumberAddressPeriodCNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dB
124 hours28.659.60.0
30390 De Portola Road59.6
224 hours39.859.0+0.1
30955 De Portola Road58.9
324 hours33.863.50.0
31775 De Portola Road63.5
4On project site, at offset 20 minutesN/AN/AN/AN/A
of proposed five-story bed
tower
531602 Calle Los Padres 24 hours78.753.478.70.0
(adjacent to Highway 79)
NOTES:
Ambient Samples collected by ESA Associates between June 19 and 26, 2014.
All instrumentation meets the requirements of the American National StandardsInstitute (ANSI) S1.4-1971.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2014.
The differences in CNEL noise generated from the proposed interim siteand the alternative
interimsite are very minimaland below the 3 dB CNEL threshold for locations with existing
ambient noise levels between 55 and 60 dB CNEL, and below the 1.5 dB CNEL threshold for
locations with existing ambient noise levels of more than 60 dB CNEL. Furthermore, this
alternative wouldnot cause an exceedance of the City of Temecula General Plan criteria, which
sets noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB CNEL for low-and medium-intensity housing,
and 70 dB CNEL for multi-family housing. As a result, the Alternative InterimHelistop Site
Alternative would not cause a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels; impacts
would be less than significant, which is the same as what would occur by the proposed project.
4-33
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Short-Term Noise
Table 4-5
shows the single-event noise that would be generated as helicopters arrive and depart
the alternativeinterimhelistopsite.As described above, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site
Alternative wouldutilize an east-west flight path that would cross the front of the hospital site as
it runs parallel to (and 144 feet north of) Temecula Parkway.As with the proposed project, the
duration of the maximum single-event noise would be very limited in length and frequency
occurring approximately eight times per month (four departures andfour arrival flights).
TABLE 4-5
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE FOR THE ALTERNATIVE INTERIM SITEALTERNATIVE
WEST FLOWEAST FLOW
(Prevailing Winds)(Santa Ana Conditions)
Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
Site Departure Arrival Departure Arrival
No.Site LocationLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dB
130390 De Portola68.151.151.1 73.3
230955 De Portola67.968.667.969.2
331775 De Portola58.570.169.158.9
531602 Calle Los Padres 79.680.979.679.7
6AEquestrian Trail70.872.170.871.9
6BEquestrian Trail63.965.563.964.8
6CEquestrian Trail 73.673.373.479.7
7Madera Vista62.778.378.263.7
843941 Via Montalban49.060.257.948.9
9David Ln / Kevin Pl76.458.557.777.5
NOTE: Receptors receiving the greatest noise in each wind condition is indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
Level of Noise Impact:
As described above, an impact related to short-term single-event noise
would occur if helicopter operations results in an exceedance of the City’s allowable exterior
noise levels.As shown in Table 4-5, the short-term noise generated by helicopter flights to and
from alternative interim helistop wouldhave the greatest impact at Site 5,the Country Glen
neighborhood, where it wouldresult in a maximum noise level of 80.9dBLmaxinprevailing
wind conditions (for a majority of flights) and 79.7dBLmax inSanta Ana wind conditions,
which would be a substantial short-term increase in ambient noise.
In comparison, the maximum helicopter overflight noise from the proposed interim helistop
would be 93.4 dBLmaxin prevailing wind conditions and 100.8 dBLmaxin Santa Ana wind
conditionsat Site 6A, the equestrian trail.Thus, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
is anticipated to result in a maximum noise level that is 12.5dBLmax less in prevailing winds
and21.1dBLmax less in Santa Ana windsthan the proposed interim helistop.Therefore, the
4-34
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould result in single-event noise levels that would
be less than the proposed project.
Receptor Sites Impacted:
Table 4-5also shows thathelicopter overflight noisefrom the Alternative
Interim Helistop Site Alternativewouldexceed the exterior short-term noise standard at9of the 10
receptor sites inprevailingwinds and at 8 of the 10 receptor sites inSanta Ana wind conditions.
In comparison, the proposed interim helistop would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard
at 9of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing wind conditions and at all receptor sites in Santa Ana
wind conditions. Thus, compared to the proposed project, the helicopter overflight noise from the
Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard
at2fewer receptor locations inSanta Anawindconditions.
Receptor Sites 2, 3, 6A, 6B, and 8, which are located furthest away from the alternative interim
helistopeast/west flight path, would generally experience lower maximum short-term noise levels
by the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativethan from the proposed interim helistop.
Conversely,Sites 1 and 5,which are in close proximity to the alternative’s east/west flight path,
would generally experiencegreater maximum short-term noise levels under this alternative
during prevailing and Santa Ana winds than as compared to the proposed interimhelistop
location.
Short-Term Noise Conclusion:
Themaximumnoise from the Alternative Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would be12.5dB Lmax less noise than what would occur by the proposed interim
helistop in prevailing wind conditions, and 21.1dBLmax lessin Santa Ana wind conditions. In
addition, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould exceed the exterior short-term noise
standard at fewer receptor locations than the proposed interim helistop inSanta Ana conditions.
Therefore,the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould result in reducedsingle-event
noise impacts compared to the proposed project.
However,like the proposed interim helistop, the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternative
would result in a significant unavoidable impact because helicopter noise from the Alternative
Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould be substantially louder than both the City’s allowable
noise and the existing ambient noise levels and would directly impact residential areas. Thus,
noise impacts from the Alternative Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould be less than the
proposed project; however,impacts would continue to be significant and unavoidable.
Conclusion
The Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative would result in greaterimpacts than the
proposed project’s less-than-significantimpactsrelated to aesthetics and hazards.The
alternative's aesthetics impacts are greater than the proposed project’s due to a more visible
helistop surrounded by security fencing, lighting,and potentially lighting poles. The hazards
impactsunder this alternative would begreater and potentially significant due tothe flight path
that would run parallel and adjacent to Temecula Parkway.
4-35
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Noise impacts under this alternative would be reduced in comparison with the proposed project.
However, noise from the Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative would continue to be
substantially louder than the City’s allowable noise levels and the existing ambient noise in the
project area,and would occur approximately eight times a month. Thus, noise related to the
Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative would be less than the proposed project; however,
impacts would continue to be significant and unavoidable.
Because impacts under this alternative related to aestheticsare greaterand hazardsare greater and
potentially would result in a new significant impact, the Alternative InterimHelistop Site
Alternative is not environmentally superior compared to the proposed project.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the Alternative InterimHelistop Site Alternative
would not fullymeet the project objectives of providing superior, easily accessible emergency
medical services within the City of Temecula. The helistop in this location is less accessible and
less operationally efficientbecause ofthe locationaway from hospital, whichwould increase
patient transport distanceand time to and from the emergency department. Furthermore,
implementation of the Alternative InterimHelistop Site would need to undergo the full review
and permitting processes withtheFAA, Riverside County ALUC,and Caltrans Aeronauticsthat
would further delay the introduction of a fully permitted helistop. As such, it would not fully
satisfy the objective of providing a regional hospital facility that wouldbe an operationally
efficient, state-of-the-art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors.
Furthermore,this alterativewould not meet the objective of ensuring compatibility of
development with surrounding uses in terms of aesthetics and hazardsimpacts.
4.8Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would develop ahelistop at
ground level at the planned future hospital tower location, which is shown in Figure 2-4.
Development of the future hospital towerwilloccur in Phase IV of the hospital project. To allow
for construction of the future hospital tower, the helistop would need to be relocated to the
proposed interim helistop site. After completion of the future hospital tower, the permanent
helistop (on the roof of the new tower) would be operational and the location that would be used
during construction of the new tower would be removed.
As shown in Figure2-4,the future hospital tower location is in front of the existing hospital
building, toward Temecula Parkway. Under this alternative the northeast/southwestflight paths
identified forthe permanent helistop would be usedwhile the helistop is located at ground level at
the future tower site. The flight paths areshown in Figures2-4, 3.3-5, and 3.3-6.Because
helicopters would be arriving and departing from the ground level, flights would travel at a lower
altitude over the existing Madera Vista apartment buildings and over the existing hospital parking
lotthan would occur by use of the permanent helistop at this location, which would be on the roof
of the future tower.
4-36
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
When the helistop is moved to the proposed interim helistop location (upon construction of the
futuretower) the flight paths identified for the proposed interim helistop (shown in Figures 2-4,
3.3-3, and 3.3-4) would be used.
Thehelistoplocation thatwould occur under this alternative would be required to be consistent
with the applicable criteria of the aeronautical agencies (Riverside County ALUC, Caltrans
Division of Aeronautics, andFAA), and would have the same design, lighting, and security
features as the proposed interim helistop described in Chapter 2, Project Description.In addition,
for the helistop at the future tower location, red obstruction lighting would also be required on the
southeast corner of the lower hospital structure, on the roof of the Madera Vista apartment
buildings, and potentially on light standards in the hospital parking lot that is adjacent to
Temecula Parkway.
Aesthetics
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would install lighting fixtures for
nighttime operations that would be similar to those installed for the proposed interim site. In
addition, this alternative would be required to install red obstruction lights onthe southeast corner
of the lower hospital structure, on the roof of the Madera Vista apartment buildings, and
potentially on light standards in the hospital parking lot that is adjacent to Temecula Parkway.
With the additional red obstruction lightingthat would be required for the Future Tower Location
as Interim Helistop Site Alternative that would be visible from Temecula Parkway;this
alternative would result in greater aesthetic impacts than the proposed project.
Like the proposed interim helistop site, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would surround the helistop with a5-foot-tall security fence. However, unlike the
proposed project, the future tower helistop location isin front of the existing hospital building and
visible from Temecula Parkway. This helistop would not be screened behind other planned
hospital facilities and parking areas, and as a result,the helistop site and the security fence would
be much more visible from travelers along Temecula Parkway under the Future Tower Location
as Interim Helistop Site Alternative.
The lower flight path that would result from the ground level helistop at the future tower location
would have obstruction clearance conflicts with the existing trees in the drainage that is adjacent
to the hospital site. Based on Caltrans Aeronautics criteria, the large row of mature trees would
need to be reduced in height to meet obstruction clearance standards. However, as described
previously, trimming or removal of the trees within the drainage would require approval and
permits from state and federal resource agencies; but should these trees be reduced, removed, or
cut as a result of the helistop, aesthetic impacts would be greater than the proposed interim
helistop (that would not requiretree trimming).
As described above, under the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative,prior
tocommencement of construction of the futuretower, thehelistop would be moved to the
proposed interim helistop location.Therefore, in addition to the impacts that would occur from
the ground level helistop at the future tower location, this alternative would also result in the
4-37
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
same less-than-significantaesthetic impacts that would occur under the interim condition of the
proposed project.
The storage facility that would be constructed under this alternative would include the same
massing and design features and exterior lighting features that would occur under the proposed
project and would result in the same less-than-significantaesthetic impacts.
Because theFuture Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in more red
obstruction lighting and a more visible helistopthat would be located in front of the existing hospital
building and visible from Temecula Parkway that would besurrounded by security fencing, this
alternative would result in greateraesthetic impacts thanthe proposed project’s less-than-significant
impacts.
Hazards
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would develop ahelistop at
ground level at the planned future hospital tower location,which would be moved during
construction of the future tower. The same northeast/southwest flight paths for the permanent
helistop would be used while the helistop is located at ground level at the future tower site
(shown in Figure2-4). However, because helicopters would be arriving and departing from the
ground level, flights from this ground helistop location would travel at a low-altitude over the
existing Madera Vista apartment buildings and over the existing hospital parking lot.
This flight path would have obstruction clearance conflicts with the existing trees in the drainage
that is adjacent to thehospital site. Based on Caltrans Aeronautics criteria, the large row of
mature trees would need to be reduced in height to meet obstruction clearance standards.
However, as described previously, approval and permits from state and federal resource agencies
are required to trim these trees, which have not been obtained. As a result,hazard impacts related
to the tree obstructions would be greater than the proposed interim helistopthat would not require
tree trimming.
The plannedMOB 1 and MOB 2 buildings (shown in Figure2-4) may also penetrate the northern
transitional surfaceof the flight path for the ground level helistop at the future tower site, which
generates a potential hazard impact.In addition, depending on the timing of development of the
“future building site” located on the south east corner of the project site, the future building in this
locationcould penetrate the southern transitional surface, generating an additional potential
hazard impact.It is the policy of the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics to only grantone variance
per flight path. Penetrations of the transitional surface in more than one area would not be
allowed by Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and would not receive a permit to operate the
helistop.Furthermore, the obstruction conflicts with the trees and future on-sitebuildings that
would occur from the ground level helistop at the future tower site would not occur from the
proposed interim helistop. The proposed interim helistop would not require a variance from
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics. Thus, potential hazards impacts related to obstruction clearance
conflicts fromthe Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative wouldbe greater
than what would occur by the proposed project.
4-38
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
As shown in Figure 4-5,one of the flight pathsfrom the future tower location would cross the
hospital entrance driveway, a hospital parking lot, and Temecula Parkway. Hence, the helicopters
would reduce altitude (or increase altitude) as they crossTemecula Parkway, the parking lot, and
the main hospital access road to land or take off from the helistopat ground level at the planned
future hospital tower location. This helicopter activity would bealow-altitude event that would
cross over pedestrians, bicyclesand vehicle travelers in the hospital driveway, parking lot, and
Temecula Parkway. This would be alarge-scale forefront activity that could cause distractions to
drivers in the driveway, parking lot, and along the roadway and lead to vehicle accidents, or could
cause confusion/distraction to patientsand visitorsentering the facility by personal vehicle. In
addition, helicopter landings and takeoffs crossingTemecula Parkway at a low altitude could
impact pedestrian and bicyclist safety along the sidewalk that fronts hospital due to rotorwash
(winds generated from the helicopter).
In comparison, the flight path of the proposed interim helistop (shown in Figure2-4) would travel
from behind the existing and planned hospital facilities, and would cross Temecula Parkway at a
location farther away from the hospital that would provide the distance, height,and trajectory to
be far above the roadway to not cause the distraction that could be caused by the ground level
future tower helistop location.
The location of the proposed interim helistop, where the helistop would move during construction
of the futuretower, is in the northwestern portion of the project site toward the rear of the hospital
facilities, and helicopter activity at the proposed interim site would consist of middle ground
activity, with parking lot and hospital facilities in the foreground. The middle ground helicopter
activity would be buffered from Temecula Parkway by other hospital uses, which would reduce
distraction to travelers along the roadway in comparison to the ground level future tower helistop
location.
In addition, the flight path for the proposed interim location would not travel above or cross
vehicular paths in the hospital parking lot, driveway, or along Temecula Parkway (such as would
be done by the ground level future tower helistop location), and would not result in the level of
potential confusion for persons to access thehospitalthat could occur from the ground level
future tower helistop location. Also, because helicopter landings and takeoffs would be farther
from roadways, driveways, and sidewalks, safety concerns related to pedestrians and bicyclists
along the public sidewalk that fronts the hospital would not occur, as it could by the ground level
future tower helistop location. Overall, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would result in greater potential impacts related to hazards than would occur by the
interim helistop site proposed by the project.
Noise
Construction Noise
Construction of theFuture Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in
construction of two interim helistops. Thus, noise from helistop construction would be greater
under this alternative than would occur by the proposed project. However, construction noise
associated with the phased development of the other hospital facilities would continue to occur
4-39
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
during the construction of the helistops. The locations of development would have the same
general distance to sensitive receptors, which include the adjacent residential uses and the
hospital itself. Therefore, impacts related to construction noise under the Future Tower Location
as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be similar to those currently occurring and proposed to
occur by the proposed project.
CNEL Standards
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would develop the proposed
helistop at ground level at the planned future hospital tower locationfor use prior to construction
of the new tower. Therefore, the CNEL noise contours that would be generated by this alternative
would be similar towhat would occur by the proposed permanent helistopand would be
Figure 4-8
contained within the hospital site, as shown on . Therefore, the average noise increase
(CNEL) resulting fromthe helistop at the future tower location would beless thansignificant,
which is the same asthe proposed project.
Increase in Ambient Noise Levels
The Future Tower Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be located at ground level at
Table 4-6
the planned future hospital tower location. As shown on , the alternative site would
increase noise at Site 2 by 0.1 dB CNEL and the remainder of the sites would not experience an
increase in CNEL noise. In comparison, the proposed project would result in an increase in
ambient noise by 0.2 dB CNEL at Site 2 and 0.1 dB CNEL increase at Site 3 (Table 3.3-9). The
differences in CNEL noise generated from the proposed interim site and the Future Tower
Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative are very minimal and below the 3 dB CNEL threshold
for locations with existing ambient noise levels between 55 and 60 dB CNEL, and below the 1.5
dB CNEL threshold for locations with existing ambient noise levels of more than 60 dB CNEL.
Furthermore, this alternative would not cause an exceedance of the City of Temecula General
Plan criteria, whichsets noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB CNEL for low-and
medium-intensity housing, and 70 dB CNEL for multi-family housing. As a result, the Future
Tower Location Interim Helistop Site Alternative would not cause a substantial permanent
increase in ambient noise levels; impacts would be less than significant, which is the same as
what would occur by the proposed project.
4-40
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
79
Future Tower
Ground Level
Legend
CNEL Contours
60 dB
65 dB
Hospital Campus
Noise Sensitive
Land Use
0500
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA Airports, 2015; INM 7.0d; City of Temecula; USDA, 2012
Figure 4-8
NOTE: The CNEL contours depict the noise exposure from helicopter operations
CNEL Contours for the Future Tower
only and do not represent the noise exposure resulting from non-aircraft sources.
Location as Interim Helistop Alternative
4. Project Alternatives
TABLE 4-6
EXISTING AMBIENT CNEL NOISE AND HELICOPTER NOISE FROM THE FUTURE TOWER LOCATION
INTERIM HELISTOPSITE ALTERNATIVE
Difference
between
Combined Ambient and
Ambient and Combined
Site Site Description/ Measurement Ambient Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
NumberAddressPeriodCNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dBCNEL, dB
124 hours23.759.60.0
30390 De Portola Road59.6
224 hours41.559.0+0.1
30955 De Portola Road58.9
324 hours42.563.50.0
31775 De Portola Road63.5
4On project site, at offset 20 minutesN/AN/AN/AN/A
of proposedfive-story bed
tower
531602 Calle Los Padres 24 hours78.740.678.70.0
(adjacent to Highway 79)
NOTES:
Ambient Samples collected by ESA Associates between June 19 and 26, 2014.
All instrumentation meets the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) S1.4-1971.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
Short-Term Noise
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would develop ahelistop at
ground level at the planned future hospital tower location. The same northeast/southwest flight
paths for the permanent helistop would be used while the interim helistop is located at ground
Table 4-7
level at the future tower site (shown in Figure2-4).shows the single-event noise that
would be generated as helicopters arrive and depart the ground level future tower location interim
helistop.
Level of Noise Impact:
As described above, an impact related to short-term single-event noise
would occur if helicopter operations results in an exceedance of the City’s allowable exterior
noise levels.As shown on Table 4-7, the noise generated by helicopter flights to and from the
ground level interim helistop at the future tower location would result in a maximum noise level
of 94.8dB Lmax inprevailing wind conditionsand 93.7 dB Lmaxin Santa Ana wind conditions,
both of which would occur at Site 7, the Madera Vista apartments, which would be a substantial
short-term increase in ambient noise.
In comparison, the maximum helicopter overflight noise from the proposed interim helistop
location would be 93.4 dBLmax, in prevailing wind conditions and 100.8 dB Lmaxin Santa Ana
conditions, both at Site 6A, the equestrian trail. Therefore, the Future Tower Location as Interim
Helistop Site Alternative would resultin a short-termmaximum noise level at receptors of1.4dB
Lmaxgreater in prevailing wind conditions(for a majority of flights), and 7.1 dB Lmaxless in
Santa Ana conditions than the proposed interim helistop.
4-42
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
TABLE 4-7
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE LEVELS –FUTURE TOWER LOCATION AS INTERIMHELISTOP
ALTERNATIVE
WEST FLOWEAST FLOW
(Prevailing Winds)(Santa Ana Conditions)
Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
Departure Arrival Departure Arrival
Site No.Site LocationLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dB
158.648.348.363.3
30390 De Portola
268.968.868.972.5
30955 De Portola
367.283.883.867.8
31775 De Portola
531602 Calle Los Padres86.564.664.787.3
6A72.372.372.376.3
Equestrian Trail Overflight
6B67.167.567.168.8
Equestrian Trail
6C71.564.164.276.2
Equestrian Trail
94.893.7
777.178.4
Madera Vista
852.274.4
43941 Via Montalban
72.552.3
971.851.9
David Ln / Kevin Pl
51.979.7
NOTE: Receptors receiving the greatest noise in each wind condition is indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
Receptor Sites Impacted:
Table 4-7also shows that the helicopter overflight noise fromthe
ground level helistop at the future tower locationwould exceed the exterior short-term noise
standard at 9of the 10 receptor sites in both prevailingand Santa Anawind conditions.
In comparison, the proposed interim helistop would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard
at 9of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing wind conditions and at all receptor sites in Santa Ana
wind conditions. Thus, compared to the proposed project, the helicopter overflight noise from the
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would exceed the exterior short-term
noise standard at one lessreceptor location inSanta Ana conditions.
Receptor Sites 1,2, 6A, 6B, 6C, and 9, which are located furthest away from the Alternative
Interim Helistop flight path, would generally experience lower maximum short-term noise levels
than bythe proposed interim helistop location.Conversely, however, Sites 3, 5 and 7, which are
directly under or in close proximity to the alternative’s northeast/southwest flight path would
generally experience greater maximum short-term noise levels by the Future Tower Location as
Interim Helistop Site Alternativein both prevailing and Santa Ana winds,compared to the
proposed interim helistop location.
Short-Term Noise Conclusion:
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative
would result in a maximum short-term noise level at receptors of 1.4 dB Lmaxgreater in
4-43
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
prevailing wind conditions (for a majority of flights) than the proposed interim site. However, this
alternative would generatea maximum noise of 7.1dB Lmaxless in Santa Ana conditions than
the proposed interim helistop.In addition, this alternativewould exceed the exterior short-term
noise standardone less receptor locationthan the proposed interim helistopinSanta Ana
conditions.
Therefore, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternativewould result in a
slightly greatermaximum single-event noisefor a majority of flights; however, it would impact
one fewer receptor location than the proposed interim helistop inSanta Ana conditions.
Similar to the proposed interim helistop, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternativewould result in a significant unavoidable impact because helicopternoise from the
Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be substantially louder than
both the City’s allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levels,occur approximately eight
timesa month,and would directly impact residential areas by helicopter overflight. Thus, noise
impacts from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would be similar to
the project's significant and unavoidable impacts.
Conclusion
The Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would result in greater impacts
than the proposed project related to aesthetics and hazards; and similar noise impacts. As with the
proposed interim location, noise from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would continue to be substantially louder than existing ambient noise levels and
would occur approximately eight times a month. Thus, noise related to the Future Tower Location
as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would besimilar tothe proposed project’ssignificant and
unavoidableimpacts. Therefore, because the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would result in greater aesthetics and hazards impacts andwould not reduce noise
impacts to a less-than-significantlevel, it is not environmentally superior compared to the
proposed project.
In regards to meeting the project objectives, the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site
Alternative would requiretwo interim helistop sites,each with new operating plansthat could be
disruptive tooperations ofhospital, especially the transfer of emergency patients. This would
result in interfering with the project objective to provide superior, easily accessible emergency
servicesin an operationally efficientmanner.Finally, a ground-levelsite at the future tower
location wouldbe required to undergothefull review andpermitting processes with FAA,
Riverside County ALUC,and Caltrans Aeronautics, which would further delay the introduction
of a permitted helistop facility. As such, it would not fully satisfy the objective of providing a
regional hospital facility thatis an operationally efficient, state-of-the art facility that meets the
needs of the region and hospital doctors.Furthermore, this alternative would not meet the
objective of ensuring compatibility of development with surrounding uses in terms of aesthetics
and hazards impacts.
4-44
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
4.9Existing Hospital Roof Helistop SiteAlternative
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would developthehelistop on the roof of
the existing five-storyhospital building. As shown in Figure2-4,the existing five-story hospital
building is in the central portion of the project site, behindthe futuretower location.Under this
alternative the approximate northeast/southwest flight paths identified for the permanent helistop
would be used by the helistop on the roof of the existing hospital building. The flight paths are
shown in Figures 2-4, 3.3-5, and 3.3-6.Like the existing hospital building the future tower would
be five-stories high; thus, helicopters would be arriving and departing from this location at the
same altitude as the proposed permanent helistop. This alternative would include development of
the storage building, as proposed.
Thehelistop located on the roof of the existing hospital building would have the same design,
lighting, and security features as the permanenthelistop described in Chapter 2, Project
Description. Noadditionalobstruction or lead-in lighting would be requiredunder the Existing
Hospital Roof as Helistop Site Alternative.However, implementation of this alternative would
require helistop and flight path designs pursuant to all applicable aeronautical agencies criteria
(Riverside County ALUC, Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, and FAA).
Because the additional mass from the helistopand helicopter would be substantial relative to the
existing roof mass, seismic upgrades would be required pursuant to the California Building Code
(CBC). In particular, the existing hospital building was designed and constructed in compliance
with 2007 CBC requirements. Building modifications under this alternative would be required to
comply with either the current 2013 CBCor the CBCthat is in place when building permits are
issued. The 2013 CBCis more stringent in terms of seismic requirements than the 2007 CBC.
The 2013 CBC requires the following improvements to support a helistop on the roof of the
existing hospital:
Gravity Support Modifications:
(1) Existing roof beams of the hospital structure would
be required to be strengthened by adding cover plates or tees welded to the underside of
the beams; (2) Connections of the affected beams would needto be strengthened by
supplemental fillet welding; and (3) Approximately eight existing structural building
columns would be needto be strengthened from the ground up to the roof with cover
plates.This structural work, involving walls, floors,and ceilings from the ground floor up
to the ceiling, would impactthe following areas/systems within the hospital building for
the duration of construction:
a.First Floor: parts of kitchen, main housekeeping, pharmacy, and the only service
corridor
b.Second Floor: two intensive care unitrooms, patient mentoring room, respiratory
services work room, and main corridor
c.Third Floor: five patient rooms and corridor
d.Fourth Floor: five patient rooms and corridor
e.Two patient elevators would need to be modified to go to the roof
4-45
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Pile Foundation Modifications:
The existing pile foundations of the hospital structure
would be neededto be strengthened with additionalpiles. As with the gravity support
work, this structural work would impact the first-floor kitchen, main housekeeping,
pharmacy, and the only service corridor during construction.
Framing Modifications:
The existing moment frames and braced frames would need to
be strengthened as a result of the increase in seismic loading. Likewise, the pile
foundation supporting the existing seismic bracing system would need to be strengthened
with additional piles. This structural work would impact medical surgery patient rooms
throughout the tower and the first-floor emergency department, pharmacy,and kitchen
areas.
In addition to the CBC-required improvements, afuel/water separator would needto be
installed on the rooftop, and the fire suppression system of the hospital would be required
to undergo substantial upgrades, and the existing rooftop heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning (HVAC)system may need to be replaced. Insufficient separation between
the HVAC intakes and helicopter engine exhaust could create harmful air quality
conditions within the hospital. Should insufficient separation exist, the hospital would
need to modify or replace the HVAC units with advanced carbon filtration and ionization
systems. This would require an increase in air handler fan size to increase static air
pressure.
Construction of these improvements couldtake approximately 16 months, depending on the
strategy chosen for facility operations, during which time the affected areas would be
significantly disrupted and/or unusable. Areas outside of thehospital, which are nearby or
underneath construction equipment (such as cranes), would also be unusable, whichwould affect
hospital operations.
Aesthetics
Like the permanent helistop proposed by the project, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternative would require installation of lighting fixtures for nighttime operationsthatwould include
16green flush-mounted perimeter lights surrounding the TLOFin accordance with Caltrans Division
of Aeronautics standards.However, due to its location five-stories above ground, no additional
obstruction lightingor lead-in lightingwould be required under the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop
Site Alternative.
The proposed interim helistop site would be required to install lead-in lights that would not be
required for the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative. Therefore, this alternative would
result in fewer impacts related to the amount of required lighting than the proposed interim helistop.
In addition, the proposed interim helistop would be located in the western portion of the hospital site
toward the professional office and commercial uses to the west. Pursuant to FAA and Caltrans
Aeronautics requirements, the proposed interim helistop wouldconsist of a 5.5-foot-high berm from
which helicopters would land and take off and would be lighted for nighttime operations. The
proposed interim helistop would be visible from adjacent roadways and off-siteuses.
4-46
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
The rooftop nighttime lighting for the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould be
consistent with what would be used for the permanent helistop, whichwould be low-level lighting
that is consistent with the City’s Design Guidelines and Outdoor Lighting Ordinance that would be
directed toward the interior of the rooftop to avoid casting shadows onto adjacent properties. Like
the permanent helistop location, some of the rooftop lighting from the helistop on top of the existing
hospitalbuilding would be visible from nearby residences and other land uses, but would be
consistent with the existing hospital lighting and would not affect viewers’ nighttime vision.
Therefore, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop SiteAlternative would result in fewer aesthetic
impacts than the less-than-significantimpacts that would occur from the proposed project.
Consistent with the other alternatives described previously, the storage facility that would be
constructed under this alternative would include the same massing and design features and
exterior lighting features that would occur under the proposed project and would result in the
same less-than-significantaesthetic impacts.
Hazards
The helistop site that would be developed under the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternativewould be located on top of the five-story existing hospital buildingand would use the
northeast/southwest flight paths identified for the permanent helistop, which meet safety
recommendations related to prevailing wind conditions.Because ofthe height and location of the
building in the central portion of the project site, a helistopon top of the existing hospital building
would meetthe FAA’s Heliport Design Guide standards andthe Caltrans Division ofAeronautics
criteria for obstructions and lighting. The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould
not result in any potential obstruction clearance conflicts, and no variances would be required. As
a result, no additional obstruction or lead-in lighting would be required by theExisting Hospital
Roof Helistop Site Alternative. Because the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative
would meet FAA and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics safety standards, andno variances or
additional safety lighting would be required,the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative
would result in similar less-than-significantimpacts related to hazards asthe proposed project.
Noise
Construction Noise
Construction of this alternative would result inconstruction activityon top, within,and directly
adjacent to the operating hospital, which is a sensitive receptor.As described previously, to
implement the Existing Hospital Roof asHelistop Site Alternative,the hospital building would
need infrastructure upgrades, including: extending the elevator to provide a rooftop elevator stop,
installation of equipment and machinery on the roof that would be lifted by crane above operating
portions of the hospital building, and implementingsubstantial upgrades to thebuilding’sfire
suppression and structural systems.The construction activities that would be required to
implement these necessary building upgrades would result in direct noise impacts to the hospital
(sensitive receiver), which would not occur bythe proposed project. Therefore,construction noise
impacts bythe Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould be greater thanthose
currently occurring and proposed to occur by the proposedhospital developmentproject.
4-47
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
CNEL Standards
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would develop ahelistop on the roof of the
existing five-story hospital building, which is located in the central portion of the project site,
behindthe future tower location. Like the existing hospital building,the future tower would be
five-stories high. Thus, helicopters would be arriving and departing from this location at the same
altitude as the proposed permanent helistop, and would generate similarCNEL contours. As
shown in Figure3.3-8,the 60 dB CNEL contours resulting from the helicopter flights to the
permanent helistop are completely contained on the hospital site.Because the helistop on the roof
of the existing hospital is located behind and more centrally located than the future tower
location, CNEL contours from the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would also be
Figure 4-9
contained within the hospital site, asshown on .
Furthermore, this alternative would not cause an exceedance of the City of Temecula General
Plan criteria, which sets noise standards for residential areas at 65 dB CNEL for low-and
medium-intensity housing, and 70 dB CNEL for multi-family housing. As a result, the Existing
Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would not cause a substantial permanent increase in
ambient noise levels; impacts would be less than significant, which is the same as what would
occur by the proposed project.
Short-Term Noise
As discussed, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would use the approximate
northeast/southwest flight paths identified for the permanent helistop. The single-event noise that
would be generated as helicopters arriveatand depart from the helistop on the roof of the existing
hospital building would be similar to what would occur withthe proposed permanent helistop
location that would be on the roof of the future five-story tower.As with the proposed project, the
duration of the maximum single-event noise would belimited in length and frequency,occurring
Table 4-8
approximately eight times per month (four departures and four arrival flights).shows
the single-event noise that would be generated as helicopters arrive and depart the helistop on the
roof of the existing hospital building.
4-48
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
Existing Tower
Rooftop Helistop
79
Legend
CNEL Contours
60 dB
65 dB
Hospital Campus
Noise Sensitive
Land Use
0500
Feet
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop SEIR . 130652
SOURCE: ESA Airports, 2015; INM 7.0d; City of Temecula; USDA, 2012
Figure 4-9
NOTE: The CNEL contours depict the noise exposure from helicopter operations
CNEL Contours for the Existing
only and do not represent the noise exposure resulting from non-aircraft sources.
Hospitaloof Helistop Site Alternative
4. Project Alternatives
TABLE 4-8
SINGLE-EVENT NOISE LEVELS FOR THE EXISTING HOSPITAL ROOF HELISTOP SITEALTERNATIVE
WEST FLOWEAST FLOW
(Prevailing Winds)(Santa Ana Conditions)
Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter Helicopter
Site Departure Arrival Departure Arrival
No.Site LocationLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dBLmax, dB
130390 De Portola48.349.649.763.7
230955 De Portola78.378.278.379.2
331775 De Portola70.281.781.670.2
531602 Calle Los Padres 81.568.667.784.0
6AEquestrian Trail 82.882.882.883.7
6BEquestrian Trail75.375.375.376.3
6CEquestrian Trail71.970.870.876.3
88.687.2
7Madera Vista76.176.1
843941 Via Montalban53.773.671.553.7
9David Ln / Kevin Pl70.155.355.078.3
NOTE: Receptors receiving the greatest noise in each wind condition is indicated in Bold.
SOURCE: ESA Airports Analysis, 2015.
Level of Noise Impact:
As described above, an impact related to short-term single-event noise
would occur if helicopter operations results in an exceedance of the City’s allowable exterior
noise levels.As shown, helistop operations in this location would have the greatest impact at Site
7, the Madera Vista apartments, resultingin a maximum noise level of 88.6 dB Lmax in
prevailing wind conditions, and 87.2dB Lmaxin Santa Ana wind conditions. In addition, this
alternative would result in 84.0dBLmax in Santa Ana wind conditions at Site5, Country Glen
neighborhood; and result in 82.8dBLmaxat Site 6A, the equestrian trail,inprevailing wind
conditions and83.7dB Lmax Santa Ana wind conditions, which would be a substantial short-
term increase in ambient noise.
In comparison, helicopter overflight noise from the proposed interim helistop wouldresult in a
maximum of93.4 dB Lmax in prevailing wind conditions and 100.8dBLmax in Santa Ana wind
conditions at Site 6A, the equestrian trail. Because the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternativeis anticipated to result in a maximum noise level of 88.6 dBLmax, dB in prevailing
wind conditions, and 87.2 dBLmax, dB in Santa Ana wind conditions, it is anticipated toresult in
a maximum noise level at receptors of4.8dBLmax, dB less in prevailing wind conditions, and
13.6dBLmax, dB less in Santa Ana wind conditions than would occur from operation of the
proposed interim helistop.
In addition, the noise generated by helicopter flights from the proposed permanent helistopwould
result in a maximum noise level of 89.8dBLmax inprevailing wind conditions and 87.8dB
Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditions, at Site7, the Madera Vista apartments. This noise would be
4-50
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
1.2dBLmax lower than what would occur by the proposed permanent helistopinprevailing wind
conditions, and would be 0.6dB Lmax lower than what would occur by the proposed permanent
helistopin Santa Ana wind conditions. Therefore, helicopter operationsusingtheExisting
Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould result in a maximum single-event noise levels that
would beslightly lessthan with the proposed project.However, as described in Section 3.3,
Noise,a change innoise that is less than 3 dB is not perceivable(heard) by humans. Therefore,
the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative wouldresult in a slightly less maximum
noise level; however, the difference would not be noticeable.
Receptor Sites Impacted:
Table 4-8also shows that the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternativewould result in helicopter overflight noise that would exceed the exterior short-term
noise standardat 9of the 10 receptor sites in both prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions.
Receptor Site 1, which is located furthest away from the Existing Hospital Roof as Helistop Site
Alternativenortheast/southwest flight path, would generally experience lower maximum short-term
noise levels than under the proposed project.Conversely,however,Sites 7 and 3, which are directly
under or near the alternative’s flight path, would generally experiencegreater maximum short-term
noise levels under this alternative during prevailing and Santa Ana winds than as compared to the
proposed interim and permanent helistop locations.
In comparison, the proposed interim helistop would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at
9of the 10 receptor sites in prevailing wind conditionsand at all receptor sites in Santa Ana wind
conditions. The proposed permanent helistop would exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at
9of the 10 receptor sites in both prevailing and Santa Ana wind conditions.
Thus, compared to the proposed project, the helicopter overflight noise from the Existing Hospital
Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould exceed the exterior short-term noise standard at one less
receptor location in Santa Ana conditionsthanthe interim helistop,but would exceed the standard at
the same number of locations asthe proposedpermanenthelistop inboth wind conditions.
Therefore, impacts to receptor sites by theExisting Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative wouldbe
slightly less than the proposed project.
Short-Term Noise Conclusion:
Similar to the proposed project, the noise from the Existing
Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould be substantially louder thanboththe City’s
allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levels,andwould occur approximately eight times
a month. Therefore, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternativewould not reduce the
significant and unavoidable noise impacts to a less-than-significantlevel.
The Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative is anticipated toresult in a maximum noise level at
receptors of4.8 dB Lmax less in prevailing wind conditions, and 13.6 dB Lmaxless in Santa Ana
wind conditions than what would occur from operation of the proposed interim helistop.
However, this alternative would generate very similar noise levels as the proposed permanent
helistop because helicopters would be arriving and departing fromthe Existing Hospital Roof
Helistop Site Alternativeat the same altitude as the proposed permanent helistop.Further, the
exterior short-term noise standard would be exceeded at one less sensitive receptor location in
Santa Ana conditions then the interim helistop.
4-51
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
Thus, noise impacts from the Future Tower Location as Interim Helistop Site Alternative would
be less than the project's significant and unavoidable impacts. However, similar to the proposed
interim and permanent helistop, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would result
in a significant unavoidable impact because helicopter noise would be substantially louder than
both the City’s allowable noise and the existing ambient noise levels, occur approximately eight
times a month, and would directly impact residential areas by helicopter overflight.
Conclusion
The Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would result in fewer impacts than the
proposed project related to aestheticsand hazards. In regard to construction noise impacts,
because the hospital is a sensitive receptor,construction noisewould be greater under this
alternative than theproposed project.
Operational helicopter noise would be less from the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternative than the proposed interim helistop, but would be very similar to impacts that would be
generated from the proposed permanent helistop.However, helicopter-generated noise would
continue to be substantially louder than both the City’s allowable noise levels and the existing
ambient noise levels and would occur approximately eight times a month.Thus, noise related to
operation ofthe Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would continue to be significant
andunavoidable.
Therefore, because the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative would result in reduced
aesthetics impacts,similar hazard impacts, greater construction noise impacts, and reduced
operational noise (particularly, at the interim helistop) impacts, it is the environmentally superior
alternative.
In regard to meeting the project objectives, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative
would require substantial improvements and upgrades to the existing hospital including:
extending the elevator to add a rooftop stop, installing equipment by crane over operating hospital
areas to the rooftop, and implementing substantial upgrades to the fire suppression and structural
systems of the building. The construction activities that would be required to implement these
necessary building upgrades wouldhinder use of the existing hospital facilities because ofthe
noise, vibration, and potential hazards related to rooftop construction. During construction of this
alternative, portions of the existing hospital would be unusable, such as the rooms on the top floor
and areas nearby or underneath construction equipment, such as cranes, and would result in
operational impacts to the hospital, which would not occur from the proposed project.
Therefore, implementation of the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative wouldbe
disruptive tooperations ofhospital, which would result in interference with the project objective
of providing superior, easily accessible emergency servicesin an operationally efficientmanner.
Finally, a helistopon the existing hospital roof wouldbe required to undergothefull review and
permitting processes with FAA, Riverside County ALUC,and Caltrans Aeronautics, which
would further delay the introduction of a permitted helistop facility. As such, it would not fully
satisfy the objective of providing a regional hospital facility thatis an operationally efficient,
4-52
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
4. Project Alternatives
state-of-the art facility that meets the needs of the region and hospital doctors.However, this
alternativewould meet the objective of ensuring compatibility of development with surrounding
uses in terms of aesthetics and hazards impacts.
4.10Environmentally Superior Alternative
As described,each of the identified alternatives would reduce the maximum noiselevelat the
receptor sites that would be generated by the proposedproject, which would be 93.4 dBLmaxin
prevailing wind conditions and 100.8 dB Lmax in Santa Ana wind conditionsfor the interim
helistop site,and 89.8 dBLmaxin prevailing wind conditions and 87.8 dB Lmax in Santa Ana
wind conditions for the proposed permanent helistop.However, noise impacts would continue to
be significant and unavoidable under all of the alternatives because each of the alternatives would
result in noise that would substantially exceedthe City’s allowable noise limit and the existing
ambient noise in the project vicinity.
Table 4-9
summarizes the impacts of each of thealternatives relative to the project. Section
15126.6(e) (2) of the CEQA Guidelinesrequires that an EIR identify the environmentally
superior alternative. Based on the analysisin this RDSEIR-2016, the Existing Hospital Roof
Helistop Site Alternativeis the Environmentally Superior Alternative.
As shown in Table 4-9and described previously, the Existing Hospital Roof Helistop Site
Alternativewould result in reduced aesthetics impacts, similar hazard impacts, and less helicopter
noise (particularly, at the interim helistop) impacts.As a result, the Existing Hospital Roof
Helistop Site Alternativeis the Environmentally Superior Alternative.
However, noise impacts would continue to be significant and unavoidable under the Existing
Hospital Roof Helistop Site Alternative. In addition, this alternative would require substantial
improvements and upgrades to the existing hospital,including: extending the elevator to add a
rooftop stop, installing equipment by crane over operating hospital areas to the rooftop, and
implementing substantial upgrades to the fire suppression and structural systems of the building.
The construction activities that would be required to implement these necessary building
upgrades would result in operational impacts to the hospital, which would not occur fromthe
proposed project, and would hinder achievement of the project objectives. The disruption to
operations of the hospital that would occur by implementation of the Existing Hospital Roof
Helistop Site Alternative would interferewith the project objective of providing superior, easily
accessible emergency services in an operationally efficient manner,and the delay caused by the
full review and permitting processes with FAA, Riverside County ALUC, and Caltrans
Aeronauticsof the existing building roof site,would interfere withthe objective of providing a
regional hospital facility that is an operationally efficient, state-of-the art facility that meets the
needs of the region and hospital doctors.
4-53
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
2016
130652
Existing Hospital Roof
, as it
would be disruptive to
,
February
construction
operations
ESA /
same extent as the
but Significant and
Yes, but not to the
proposed project
existing hospital
Helistop Site
Unavoidable
operations
and fewer
Greater
Similar
Fewer
as Interim Helistop Site
Future Tower Location
project objectives related
Significant and
development related to
aesthetics and hazards
to hospital operations
Would not fully meet
and compatibility of
Unavoidable
CT
Similar.
GreaterGreater
D THE PROPOSED PROJE
Site
development related to
aesthetics and hazards
Fewer, but Significant
Would not fully meet
Interim
Potentially
related to hospital
project objectives
and Unavoidable
operations and
compatibility of
Alternative
Significant
,
GreaterGreater
S OF ALTERNATIVES AN
9
-
ewer, but
proposed project in
extent as the
TABLE 4 pproved Project
, but not to the
routes and hazards
regards to access
54
-
-
City
Significant and
4
Unavoidable
/
No Project
Similar or f
GreaterGreater
same
Yes
A
COMPARISON OF IMPACT
regards to hazards and
adjacent development
No Project/ Existing
proposed project in
same extent as the
, but not to the
reater,
compatibility with
Significant and
Unavoidable
Condition
g
Similar or
Greater
Fewer
Yes
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
ignificantignificant
Proposed Project
Significant and
Unavoidable
SS
Less than Less than
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project
Yes
Meets the project
4. Project Alternatives
Impact Category
Aesthetics
objectives
Hazards
Noise
CHAPTER 5
References
Air Combat Command. 2001. Initial F-22 Operational Wing Beddown Draft Environmental
Impact Report. Volumes 1 through 3. April 2001. Accessed at
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/report/enviro/F22DraftEis/ on June 5, 2014.
ANSI. (2008). Quantities and Procedures for Description and Measurement of Environmental
Sound - Part 6 Methods for Estimation of Awakenings Associated with Outdoor Noise
Events Heard in Homes (ANSI S12.9-2000/Part 6). American National Standards Institute.
Blazer, Don. 2012. Can You Hear Me Now? Horses and Hearing. Accessed at
http://www.donblazer.com/ahorseofcourse/02_12_ears.html on June 5, 2014.
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Division of Aeronautics. 1997. Information
Concerning Hospital Heliports and Emergency Medical Service Landing Sites, May 1997.
Accessed at http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/planning/aeronaut/helipads/documents/
heliport_ems_info.pdf on January 10, 2014.
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). 1998. Technical Noise Supplement, 1998.
Accessed at:http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/env/noise/ in 2014 and 2015.
Cityof Temecula. 2005. City of Temecula Citywide Design Guidelines. August 9, 2005.
Accessed at http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Government/CommDev/Planning/
zoningdocuments/citywidedesign.htm on December 31, 2013.
Cityof Temecula. City of Temecula General Plan. Accessed at
http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Government/CommDev/Planning/zoningdocume
nts/generalplan.htm on December 31, 2013.
Cityof Temecula. City of Temecula Municipal Code. Accessed at http://www.qcode.us/
codes/temecula/view.php?topic=17&frames=off on December 31, 2013.
Department of the Air Force. 2000. Realistic Bomber Training Initiative: Final Environmental
Impact Statement. Volume 1. January 2000. Accessed at http://www.acc.af.mil/shared/
media/document/afd-070806-041.pdfon June 4, 2014.
Department of the Navy, 2005. Guidelines for Sound Insulation of Residences Exposed to
Aircraft Operations. April 2005. Accessed at: http://fican.org/aviation-noise-issues/ in
2015.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). 2012. Federal Aviation Administration Advisory
Circular, Subject: Heliport Design. AC No: 150/5390-2C. April 24, 2012. Accessed at
http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/150_5390_2c.pdf on
January 10, 2014.
Federal Interagency Committee on Aviation Noise (FICAN) 1997. Effects of Aviation Noise on
Awakenings from Sleep.Accessed at:
http://www.researchgate.net/publication/235203930_Federal_Interagency_Committee_on_
Aviation_Noise_1997_Annual_Report in 2015.
5-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
5. References
Federal Interagency Committee on Aviation Noise (FICAN) 2008. Recommendation for use of
ANSI Standard to Predict Awakenings from Aircraft Noise. Accessed at:
http://www.fican.org/pdf/Final_Sleep_Dec2008.pdf
Office of Planning and Research (OPR). 2003. State of California General Plan Guidelines (in
coordination with the California Department of Health Services). October 2003. Accessed
at http://opr.ca.gov/s_generalplanguidelines.phpon January 22, 2014.
Riverside County. 2004. Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. October 2004.
in December 2013.
Accessed at http://www.rcaluc.org/plan_new.asp
Stateof California. 2014. Aeronautics Law State Aeronautics Act Public Utility Code. Accessed
on
at http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/planning/aeronaut/documents/regulations/cpuc_21001.pdf
January 10, 2014.
Stateof California. California Code of Regulations, Title 21 Sections 3525 through 3560.
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/planning/aeronaut/
Airports and Heliports. Accessed at
documents/regulations/Regs_pub.pdf on January 10, 2014.
UnitedStates Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration(OSHA).
www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/
Appendix I:A-1. Decibel Notation. Accessedat
noise/health_effects/decibels.html on January 10, 2014.
Wieland Associates, Inc. 2007. Supplemental Noise Study for the Temecula Regional Hospital in
Temecula, October 2007.
5-2
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
RecirculatedDraft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
CHAPTER 6
List of Preparers
Lead Agency – City of Temecula
Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
Environmental Science Associates(SEIR Preparers)
Eric Ruby, Project Director
Steven Alverson, Director of Noise Analysis
Renee Escario, Project Manager
Sean Burlingame, NoiseAnalyst
Kelly Ross,Project Analyst
Paige Anderson, Project Analyst
Jason Nielsen, GIS
Linda Uehara, Graphic Artist
6-1
Temecula Valley Hospital Helipad ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
APPENDIX A
’
FAA, Caltrans Division of Aeronauticsand
Riverside County ALUC Correspondence
Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop ProjectESA / 130652
Recirculated Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact ReportFebruary2016
ADOPTED 2006 FINAL EIR
Available from the City ClerkÓs Office of the City of Temecula upon request
ADOPTED 2008 FINAL SUPPLEMENTAL EIR
Available from the City ClerkÓs Office of the City of Temecula upon request
ADOPTED 2011 EIR ADDENDUM
Available from the City ClerkÓs Office of the City of Temecula upon request
RIVERSIDE COUNTY AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION
LETTER DATED MARCH 4, 2014
AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION
RIVERSIDE COUNTY
March 4, 2014
CHAIR
Simon Housman
Rancho Mirage
Mr. Stuart Fisk, Senior Planner
City of Temecula Planning Department
VICE CHAIRMAN
Rod Ballance
41000 Main Street
Riverside
Temecula, CA 92590
COMMISSIONERS
RE: AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION (ALUC) DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
File No.: ZAP1054FV13
Arthur Butler
Related File No.: PA 13-0141 (Modified Conditional Use Permit)
Riverside
APN: 959-080-026
John Lyon
Riverside
Dear Mr. Fisk:
Glen Holmes
Hemet
On February 13, 2014, the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) found City
Greg Pettis
of Temecula Case No. PA 13-0141 (Modified Conditional Use Permit), a proposal to establish a
Cathedral City
temporary (interim) heliport (specifically, a hospital helistop), consisting of a 48-foot diameter
(1,808 square foot) Touchdown and Liftoff (TLOF) Area on a ground mounted concrete landing
Richard Stewart
Moreno Valley
pad with perimeter lighting and painted markings, within an 87-foot diameter final approach and
takeoff area, plus a 16-foot tall ground mounted illuminated wind cone, on the grounds of
Temecula Valley Hospital, located northerly of Temecula Parkway and south of De Portola
STAFF
CONSISTENT
Road, with the Countywide Policies of the 2004 Riverside County Airport Land
Director
Use Compatibility Plan, subject to the following conditions:
Ed Cooper
John Guerin
Russell Brady
CONDITIONS:
Barbara Santos
County Administrative Center
4080 Lemon St., 14 Floor.
th
1. No operations (takeoffs or landings) shall be conducted until such time as the State of
Riverside, CA 92501
California Department of Transportation Division of Aeronautics has issued a Site
(951) 955-5132
Approval Permit and subsequent Heliport Permit pursuant to Sections 3525 through
3560 of Title 21 of the California Code of Regulations.
www.rcaluc.org
2. The heliport shall be designed and constructed in accordance with FAA Advisory
Circular 150/5390-2B, Heliport Design.
3. Establishment and operations shall comply with the recommendations and requirements
of the Federal Aviation Administration letter dated July 3, 2013, a copy of which is
attached hereto.
4. Helicopter idle time shall be minimized as much as possible.
5.The Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) requests that Temecula
Valley Hospital consider returning to ALUC to seek advisory comments regarding
mitigation of noise impacts on surrounding properties in the event that the average
number of monthly operations exceeds sixteen (16) within any given quarterly period.
RIVERSIDE COUNTY AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION March 4, 2014
This finding of consistency applies only to the interim helistop as evaluated in the
attached noise study. The permanent helistop will require subsequent review by the
Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission. It is recommended that single-event
noise analysis be conducted in conjunction with ALUC review of the permanent helistop,
by which time known activity levels at the interim helistop will allow for a more precise
projection of noise levels.
If you have any questions, please contact Russell Brady, ALUC Contract Planner, at (951) 955-
0549, or John Guerin, ALUC Principal Planner, at (951) 955-0982.
Sincerely,
RIVERSIDE COUNTY AIRPORT LAND USE COMMISSION
______________________________________
Edward C. Cooper, Director
RB:bks
cc: Temecula Valley Hospital (applicant) (site address)
Temecula Valley Hospital, Inc., c/o George Brunner, King of Prussia (tax roll address)
Jeff Wright (representative)
DPR/Turner, a Joint Venture (payee)
Amy C. Towell (nearby landowner)
ALUC Staff
Y:\\AIRPORT CASE FILES\\French Valley\\ZAP1054FV13\\ZAP1054FV13.LTR.doc
2
FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINSITRATION
LETTER DATED JULY 3, 2013
CALTRANS DIVISION OF AERONAUTICS
E-MAIL DATED DECEMBER 29, 2011
RIVERSIDE COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
LETTER DATED APRIL 23, 2014
RIVERSIDE COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
LETTER DATED MARCH 16, 2015
RIVERSIDE COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
LETTER DATED MARCH 21, 2016
TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL
LETTER DATED MARCH 9, 2015
PROJECT OVERVIEW INFORMATION
(PROVIDED BY TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL, MARCH 22, 2016)
Temecula Valley
Hospital: Helistop
Relocation Project
Project Overview:
The project would relocate the helistop previously approved by the City in connection with the
Temecula Valley Hospital project to: (1) an interim location in the western portion of the site; and (2)
a permanent location on the roof of the future hospital tower when it is constructed. The interim
1
helistop would be removed when the permanent helistop is operational.
with adjacent land uses, comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Caltrans Division of
Aeronautics (Caltrans) operational safety criteria, and provide operational functionality for the delivery
of critical hospital services. In particular:
After the City approved the original helistop location, the Madera Vista apartments were
unfavorable crosswind approaches and departures; or (2) red obstruction lights should be
installed on the Madera Vista apartment buildings, which are not under the control of the City or
Temecula Valley Hospital.
direction crossing directly over the Los Ranchitos neighborhood; and (2) trees located within
riparian habitat adjacent to the hospital should be trimmed or removed.
Caltrans and FAAs conditions are undesirable due to potential impacts to off-site land uses, as well
as concerns over crosswind safety conditions for helicopter operations on approach and departure.
Therefore, Temecula Valley Hospital undertook a comprehensive site selection process that resulted in
the proposed project.
1
The helistop relocation project also would include a 5,000-square-foot storage building that would provide storage space for nonhazardous
hospital materials such as disaster supplies, attic stock for the hospital, and linens.
Helistop Relocation ProjectContact: Raymond Ketcham
Updated:
Raymond.Ketcham@uhsinc.com | (951) 303-8959
March 22, 2016
Need for Helistop:
Medical helicopters save lives.
A helipad allows utilization of an air ambulance to rapidly transport patients to hospitals that have the
necessary specialists and treatments. Some emergencies demand time-limited treatments, such as
a stroke patient that requires a specialist for interventional care. Whether or not this type of care can
be successfully administered is dependent upon time. If that window of opportunity is missed, the
potentially life-saving treatment cannot be given.
Temecula Valley Hospital provides some specialty services that are not available at all hospitals,
including being a STEMI Receiving Center and an accredited Advanced Primary Stroke Center.
saving care, particularly for heart attacks and strokes.
The helipad at Temecula Valley Hospital also provides more rapid transfers out of the hospital for
specialty services not available locally, particularly for critical pediatric care, burn patients and trauma
patients.
Use of Helicopter Transport:
Helicopter access at Temecula Valley Hospital is limited to the most critical and life threatening
situations. A physician must approve the need for all helicopter transports.
Examples of patients who would require helicopter transport include:
Critically ill or injured children requiring emergent care at a Childrens Hospital
Burn patients requiring life or limb-saving treatment or surgery at a Burn Center
Critical trauma patients requiring life-saving care or surgery at a Trauma Center
A Helicopter Will Not Be Used For:
Routine transport of stable patients.
Transport of staff, administrators or other non-patient transports.
Safety:
The safety of our patients, transport teams and community members is Temecula Valley Hospitals
top priority.
Temecula Valley Hospitals transport program has an excellent safety record.
Because Temecula Valley Hospital is not a trauma center, it is able to consider distance, weather and
patient condition before determining the best mode of transport: airplane, helicopter or ground.
Disaster Response:
Valley Area. These plans would be a vital part of the disaster response plan for Temecula Valley Hospital,
as well as for the City of Temecula and County of Riverside.
Helistop Relocation ProjectContact: Raymond Ketcham
Updated:
Raymond.Ketcham@uhsinc.com | (951) 303-8959
March 22, 2016
Helistop Site Planning Principles:
Temecula Valley Hospital carefully considered the following principles in selecting the interim
helistop site:
Provide ready access to the Emergency Department to optimize patient service.
safety.
Comply with published airspace obstruction-clearance criteria, providing pilots with a safe,
obstruction-free environment for maneuvering.
Design the helistop dimensions to accommodate small commercially-operated regional EMS
helicopters. But, also design it from a community preparedness standpoint to accommodate larger
public safety agency helicopters with the same level of safety if needed during mass casualty events.
Avoid impinging upon other facilities planned for the campus for which infrastructure had already
been installed. This is particularly true for airspace obstruction-clearance criteria.
Temecula Valley Hospital evaluated a number of potential alternative sites for the interim helistop;
Proposed Flight Paths:
Aircraft achieve safety and performance advantage by approaching and departing into the wind.
Prevailing winds are generally out of the west. Santa Ana conditions generally produce winds out of the
approaches and departures during prevailing conditions and eastbound during Santa Ana conditions.
4644
Jiix
I|mwxmrk Lipmwxst
F
A
A
a
n
d
C
a
l
t
r
a
n
s
D
R
ei
v
c
i
s
o
i
mo
n
m
o
e
f
n
A
d
e
e
r
do
n
F
a
l
i
u
g
t
h
i
c
t
s
P
a
t
h
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
////
////
//
//
PROJECT
SITE
Mrxivmq Lipmwxst
EQUESTRIAN
TRAIL
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
79
.
Xiqigype Zeppi} Lswtmxep Lipmwxst WIMV 574:96
WSYVGI> Lipmtperrivw
Figure 2-4
I|mwxmrk erh Tvstswih Mrxivmq erh
Tivqerirx Lipmwxst Psgexmsrw
Helistop Relocation ProjectContact: Raymond Ketcham
Updated:
Raymond.Ketcham@uhsinc.com | (951) 303-8959
March 22, 2016
Anticipated Transports:
Anticipated helicopter transports will be infrequent, occurring an average of approximately four times per
month (a transport involves a landing and takeoff, and is therefore two operations).
48 per year (96 operations)
Projected Annual Transports:
4 per month (8 operations)
Projected Monthly Transports:
.13 per day (.26 operations)
Projected Daily Transports:
These projections are based on current operations at the existing Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
landing site and future anticipated demand. As with the existing EMS landing site, the actual frequency of
2
operations will vary depending on the timing of medical emergencies and needed transport for critical care.
Helicopter Arrival/Departure Times:
The large majority of transports are anticipated to occur between the daytime hours of 7:00 a.m. and
7:00 p.m.
3.2 transports per month (80%)
7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
.4 transports per month (10%)
7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
.4 transports per month (10%)
10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Helicopter Noise:
A helicopter noise event would be limited, lasting not more than approximately 5 minutes for landings
and takeoffs.
Estimated descent-to-landing and ascent-to-departure time 30 seconds.
Engine run time on helistop 2 to 3 minutes after landing and before takeoff.
Typically, the helicopter would occupy the helistop for 30 to 60 minutes, between arrival and
departure, during which time the helicopter engine is not running.
Hovering, which can be one of the noisiest helicopter activities, is not part of a routine helistop landing.
The Temecula Valley Hospital Helistop Project Recirculated Draft Supplemental EIR (RDSEIR) included
analysis of helicopter noise relative to two key metrics:
Community noise equivalent level (CNEL), which considers a 24-hour time period with additional
weighting during the evening and nighttime periods to account for increased sensitivity people have
to noise events during these hours. Analysis using CNEL determined helicopter noise impacts to be
Single event noise exposure level (SENEL), which relates to a single event such as helicopter arrival
the potential for limited, short duration increases in noise at nearby receptor sites. However, these
noise events would occur: (1) infrequently (approximately four transports per month); (2) for only
(approximately 80% of the time).
laws restricting arrival and departure times. Notwithstanding, the RDSEIR requires feasible mitigation,
including requiring Temecula Valley Hospital to: ensure pilots are routinely trained to ensure optimum
reason for trip and date and time of arrival and departure; establish a telephone hotline for registering
noise complaints; and establish a community working group to provide a forum for Temecula Valley
Hospital and the community to discuss helicopter noise issues.
2
The hospital currently uses the City-approved helistop site as an EMS landing site, which is allowable under state regulations related to
medical transport (California Code of Regulations \[CCR), Title 21, Section 3527(g)).
Helistop Relocation ProjectContact: Raymond Ketcham
Updated:
Raymond.Ketcham@uhsinc.com | (951) 303-8959
March 22, 2016
Community Involvement:
Medical transport staff, heliport planning consultants and architects have conducted community
meetings to address questions and discuss how other communities have worked with their hospital
regarding helicopter patient transports.
Temecula Valley Hospital administrators have participated in meetings with the Los Ranchitos
Homeowners Association to share information and hear feedback.
Temecula Valley Hospital will establish a telephone hotline for registering noise complaints and host
regular community working group meetings to provide a forum for Temecula Valley Hospital and the
community to discuss helicopter-related noise issues.
Aeronautical Agency Approvals:
guidelines for helistops.
As required by Part 157 of the Federal Aviation Regulations, the project team submitted the interim
helistop location and design to the FAA for an airspace study. The FAA visited the site, reviewed the
design and, on July 3, 2013, issued its airspace determination letter concluding that the proposal is
use of airspace by aircraft.
The Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission also reviewed the proposed interim helistop and,
on February 13, 2014, found it to be Consistent with the Countywide Policies of the 2004 Riverside
County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (which included safety considerations).
Caltrans Division of Aeronautics, the state permitting agency for all airports and heliports within
California, reviewed the project design and granted its Conditional Plan Approval on June 12, 2013.
All three of these agencies tasked with reviewing new landing sites in California evaluate safety
considerations, including airspace obstruction-clearance criteria. The helistop will be lighted in
accordance with FAA criteria for nighttime operations. The helistop will not have instrument approach
The permanent helistop would necessarily be reviewed separately be each of these agencies at the
time that the second hospital tower (and its rooftop helistop) are designed.
Helistop Relocation ProjectContact: Raymond Ketcham
Updated:
Raymond.Ketcham@uhsinc.com | (951) 303-8959
March 22, 2016
PUBLIC CORRESPONDENCE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice of Public Hearing
A PUBLIC HEARING has been scheduled before the City of Temecula
PLANNING COMMISSION to consider the matter described below:
Case No:
PA13-0141
Applicant:
Universal Health Services of Rancho Springs, Inc.
Proposal:
A Major Modification to a Development Plan (PA07-0200) and Conditional Use
Permit (PA07-0202) for the Temecula Valley Hospital. The modification would
relocate a previously approved helistop to two new locations including an interim
location for use during preliminary project phases and a permanent location on the
roof of a future hospital tower to be constructed during a later phase. The
modification would also allow for the construction of an approximately 5,000
square foot single-story storage building for non-hazardous material storage to be
located at the site of the previously approved helistop. The 35.3 acre hospital site
is generally located on the north side of Temecula Parkway, approximately 700
feet west of Margarita Road at 31780 Temecula Parkway.
Environmental:
Consistent with Section 15163 of the California Environmental Quality act (CEQA),
a Supplemental EIR and a Recirculated Supplemental EIR were prepared for this
modification application.
Case Planner:
Stuart Fisk, (951) 506-5159
Place of Hearing:
City of Temecula, Council Chambers
Date of Hearing:
May 4, 2016
Time of Hearing:
6:00 p.m.
The agenda packet (including staff reports) will be available for viewing in the Main Reception area at the
Temecula Civic Center (41000 Main Street, Temecula) after 4:00 p.m. the Friday before the Planning
Commission Meeting. At that time, the packet may also be accessed on the City’s website –
Supplemental Material
www.cityoftemecula.org. Any distributed to a majority of the Commission regarding
any item on the Agenda, after the posting of the Agenda, will be available for public review in the Main
Reception area at the Temecula Civic Center (41000 Main Street, Temecula), 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. In
addition, such material will be made available on the City’s website – www.cityoftemecula.org – and will be
available for public review at the respective meeting.
If you have any questions regarding any item of business on the Agenda for this meeting, please call the
Community Development Department, (951) 694-6400.