HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/5/2005 - STAFF REPORTS (26) DATE: January 5, 2005
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PLANNING
SUBJECT: COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE AND PROGRESS
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT - SCOPE OF WORK UPDATE
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council discuss the Draft Scope of Work and direct staff to bring a contract back to
City Council on January 12, 2005 for approval.
BACKGROUND
The City Council authorized staff to negotiate a contract/scope of work with The Planning Center.
The General Plan team includes the following firms:
The Planning Center- Prime Contractor
Moore lacofano Goltsman (MIG) - Public Involvement
Stanley R. Hoffman Associates, Inc. - Economic
Parsons Brinckerhoff Quade and Douglas -Transportation
Earth Consultants International - Technical Studies
THE PLANNING CENTER - SCOPE OF WORK SUMMARY-
1. Economic Component: This is a critical component for the General Plan program. The
Scope of Work will include:
A, An analysis of economic conditions, trends, and key issues;
B. A fiscal analysis of the Preferred Plan plus identification of key fiscal issues;
C. An analysis of tourism trends and opportunities; and
D. Preparation of economic goals and policies (optional task).
The purpose of this task is to fully understand the City's economic conditions, trends, and
to prepare a fiscal analysis of the Preferred Land Use Plan. The new General Plan should
result in a Plan which ensures fiscal stability over time.
Base Cost: $55,280.00 Options: $6,300.00 Total: $61,580.00
2. Circulation Studies: Preparation of necessary traffic and circulation of information using
CVATS Model and the option of creating a City-wide Traffic Model. Planning and Public
Works staff recommend approval of a City-wide Traffic Model which can be kept updated
over time by the Public Works staff.
Base Cost: $103,425.00 Options: $105,000.00 Total: $208,425.00
p J\"\
3. Technical Studies for General Plan and EIR: The General Plan and EIR will require
technical reports for noise (roadway, community, and airport), air quality, biology, geo-
technical, hydrological, and hazards analyses. The existing Airport Master Plan and FAR
Part 150 Study will be used for airport noise data and analysis.
Base Cost: $92,330.00 Options: -0- Total: $92,330.00
4. General Plan: This task is the crafting of the General Plan text and diagrams. An
evaluation of existing conditions, opportunities, constraints, neighborhood programs,
jobs/housing, and recognizable places will be prepared. A Preferred Land Use Plan will be
developed. This task also includes the development of Circulation and Trails,
Conservation, Open Space, and Parks & Recreation, Safety, Noise, Community Design,
Downtown Air Quality, and Downtown Design Elements, and the Final Draft Consolidated
Plan.
Base Cost: $94,305.00 Options: $101,010.00 Total: $195,315.00
This task includes a range of Optional Elements that the City Council may consider.
Optional Elements are:
A. Parks& Recreation Strategic Plan: Parks & Recreation and Planning staffs highly
recommend approval of this task. This task will include a Public Participation
Program (interviews, focus groups, and a workshop). Development of a Strategic
Plan is necessary due to recent adoption of the (Quimby Act) Park Fees,
Ordinance, and the overall need to create a comprehensive Parks and Recreation
Plan. Funds are available for this task. ($17,160.00)
B. Air Quality Element: The existing General Plan has a brief Air Quality Section. City
Council may or may not want to add an Air Quality Element. ($7,660.00)
C. Housing Element Update-this is not recommended at this time. ($4,400.00)
D. Economic Development Element: Staff recommends adding this optional element.
Strong economic goals will be needed to ensure long-term fiscal stability.
($6,000.00)
5. Environmental Impact Report: This task includes all steps required to prepare a Draft and
Final EIR including Mitigation Monitoring Program,Statement of Overriding Considerations,
and Facts and Findings.
Base Cost: $90,500.00 Options: -0- Total: $90,500.00
6. Outreach,Workshops,and Meetings: This is likely the most important component to create
a successful General Plan. The Planning Center and MIG will assist City staff by
conducting key stakeholder meetings, community outreach, community festivals, and will
prepare collateral material.
Base Cost: $123,100.00 Options: $44,258.00 Total: $167,358.00
This task has several Options including an Informational Web Site and General Plan
Newsletters. ($44,258.00)
7. Project Administration and Reimbursables:
Base Cost: $86,650.00 Options: $15,000.00 Total: $101,650.00
The Contract and Scope of Work have created a menu format so all Options can be evaluated and
added by separate City Manager authorization.
The total General Plan Program costs are:
Base Cost: $645,590.00 Options: $271,568.00 Totals: $917,158.00
Project Schedule: A project schedule is attached to the Scope of Work. The schedule anticipates
20 months to complete all tasks. The City Council may want to adjust the schedule so that final
hearings occur in Fall 2006. Community Festivals are tentatively scheduled forApril and November
2005. The Draft EIR and public hearing process is scheduled December 2005 to February 2006
with final decision making public hearings from June 2006 to October 2006.
Staff is preparing a budget allocation update which will be in the January 12, 2005 staff report.
Funding will come from a combination of sources which may include the following: Strategic
Planning, Parks & Recreation, Economic Development, Redevelopment Agency, General Plan
Update fees, General Fund, and possible outside sources. Funding will occur over two (2) fiscal
years and the General Plan Update fee may need to be committed to refund the General Fund for
several years.
The final Scope of Work will be provided for the January 12, 2005 City Council meeting. Several
adjustments are currently being made to ensure all topics are adequately addressed.
X3
Director o trategic Planning
City Manager
Attachments:
1. Scope of Work (The Planning Center)
a
U ! Y yT
r
Y'
atY c vy� �+e I a ,:�
x,N M1M1I. kp F J W p�x
1 k
y,.rL i < 4 V f l �d liY•d n I� '. a ya ✓. �",
Y9 i1
1 S
s, sx
M1` I �4 � I,�^ s vi�,x+h'i� ' us�K✓ SF,n F�I'rUt a' .,k`L s#3P P N Nei txs<Xat *{
r
J
4
T
I
THE
�.5� PLANNING
�•• TR Governmental Services
Planning Fr Urban De.ngn
Environmental Staines
Laudmape I rrhilertinr
1580 Metro Drive
December 21, 2004 Costa Mesa,CA 92626
Phone:714,906 9220
Mr.Douglas R. Evans Fax:714.966.9221
City of Palm Springs Email:costamesa@planningcentercom
3200 East Tahquitz Way
Palm Springs,California 92263-2743
Subject: General Plan Update Scope of Work (P2004-0207L)
Dear Doug:
Thank you for the opportunity to submit this proposed Scope of Work for the
preparation of the General Plan Update and Environmental Impact Report.
Since we have previously provided the City with our Statement of Qualifications and
staff assignments, and were subsequently selected by the City Council for contract
negotiations, we are only including the Project Schedule and Budget with this Scope
of Work.
Incorporated into the Scope of Work are the Proposals of Moore lacofano Goltsman,
Inc. (MIG)-public outreach, Stanley R. Hoffman Associates, Inc. -economics,
Parsons, Brinckerhoff, Quade and Douglas-traffic, and Earth Consultants
International (ECI)-geotechnical and safety. Their work programs,schedules and
budgets have been carefully coordinated and integrated into the overall General
Plan Update program.
Our approach to the structure of this Scope of Work is somewhat unique in that we
have incorporated optional tasks that you have indicated that the City might be
interested in incorporating into the overall program.
These tasks are presented in the menu format of the Scope of Work,thus allowing
the City to select those tasks it may want to initiate and viewing them within the
context of the General Plan Update process. Task descriptions and budgets are
presented for each of these optional work items:
We have based the Scope of Work, Budget and Schedule on several assumptions.
These are:
1. In most cases there will be one, consolidated review by staff of products,
then a second review at the time of the production of the Consolidated Plan
and Technical Appendix. Exceptions are-the Fiscal Analysis,the Land Use
Element, the Community Design Element, and the Draft EIR;
2. The City Staff will be responsible for interfacing with and keeping the
Planning Commission and City Council updated on the status of the project;
Al HIGOVCANMINT loeenvrA PI mA%n 5PinpKQ1V M1nte,I1-2 1 U I Au,
�7 ���a
December 21, 2004
Page 2
3. Meetings with the City Staff and General Plan Steering Committee will be
coordinated to occur on the same day, thus minimizing consultant team
travel times;
4. City Staff will be responsible for agendas, notifications, and meeting notes;
and
5. Every effort will be made by the City to maintain the project schedule.
I trust we will have consensus on these points.
Our project team will bring to this project a powerful combination of professional
planning, design, public outreach, and technical research capabilities that will
assist the City Staff,the Steering Committee, Planning Commission, and the City
Council in achieving this important mission.
Thank you again for the opportunity to submit this document. If you have any
questions about the Scope of Work,the Budget or the Schedule, please don't
hesitate to contact me or Wendy Grant.
Sincerely yours,
THE PLANNING CENTER
Richard E. Ramella \ MA
Consulting Principal
AI VIGT(Ww11 NIAI AG,nn APTaroNfl)sptlntvVCO FICM1 -11o4da,
Contents
1, ECONOMIC COMPONENT....................................................................1-1
1.1 Economic Conditions and Trends.................................................. 1-1
1.2 Tourism Trends and Opportunities Analysis................................... 1-3
1.3 Fiscal Analysis of Preferred Plan.................................................... 1-3
1.4 Economic Goals and Policies Guidance (OPTIONAL)...................... 1-4
1.5 Administration and Coordination................................................... 1-5
1.6 Team Meetings................................................_......................... 1-5
1.7 Public Meetings.......................................................................... 1-5
2. CIRCULATION STUDIES.......................................................................2-1
2.1 Existing Conditions......................................................................2-1
2.1.1 Assemble Data...............................................................2-1
2.1.2 Develop Base Year Traffic Data/Volume/Capacity Analysis..2-1
2.1.3 Obtain and Apply CVATS Model......................................2-1
2.2 Traffic Projections.......................................................................2-2
2.2.1 Develop Future Year Traffic Data/Volume/Capaciy Analysis 2-2
2.2.2 Prepare Transportation Technical Report..........................2-2
2.3 Circulation Plan...........................................................................2-2
2.4 Impact Analysis and EIR Input.......................................................2-3
2.5 Citywide Traffic Model (OPTIONAL).............................................2-3
2.5.1 City-level model development..........................................2-3
2.5.2 Land Use and Trip Generation.........................................2-3
2.5.3 Trip Distribution and Assignment.....................................2-3
2.SA Model Validation............................................................2-3
2.5.5 Future(General Plan) Forecasts........................................2-3
2.5.6 Model Documentation Report..........................................2-3
2.6 Meeting Attendance....................................................................2-4
3. TECHNICAL STUDIES...........................................................................3-1
3.1 Baseline Studies..........................................................................3-1
3.1.1 Noise............................................................................3-1
3.1.2 Air Quality.....................................................................3-3
3.1.3 Biology...._....................................................................3-4
3.2 Geotechnical, Hydrological, and Hazards Analysis...........................3-4
3.3 Technical Appendix.....................................................................3-5
I
4. GENERAL PLAN...................................................................................4-1
4.1 Land Use Element.......................................................................4-1
4.1.1 Land Use Element Formatting..........................................4-1
4.1.2 Existing Land Use Ana�sis,Verification, Update and
Documentation ..........................................................................4-1
4.1.3 Identify Issues, Opportunities, and Constraints...................4-1
4.1.4 Identify Areas of Opportunity...........................................4-2
4.1.5 Develop Concepts for Neighborhood Enhancement and
Preservation...............................................................................4-3
4.1.6 Study lobs/Housing Relationships.....................................4-3
4.1.7 Develop Concepts for Creating and Enhancing Recognizable
Places 4-4
4.1.8 Develop Preferred Land Use Plan.....................................4-4
4.1.9 Develop Statistical Summary............................................4-5
4.1.10 Develop Descriptive Text, Element Goals, Policies and
Programs 4-5
4.2 Circulation and Trails Element......................................................4-6
4.3 Conservation, Open Space, Parks and Recreation Element...............4-6
4.3.1 Preparation of Element....................................................4-6
4.3.2 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan (OPTIONAL)..............4-6
4.4 Safety Element..........................................................................4-10
4.5 Air Quality Element (OPTIONAL) ...............................................4-10
4.6 Noise Element..........................................................................4-11
4.7 Community Design Element .......................................................4-12
4.8 Downtown Urban Design Program (OPTIONAL)..........................4-13
4.8.1 Downtown Direction Facilitation ....................................4-13
4.9 Housing Element Update (OPTIONAL).......................................4-17
4.10 Public Services and Facilities Element(OPTIONAL).......................4-17
4.11 Economic Development Element (OPTIONAL).............................4-I8
4.12 Consolidated General Plan.........................................................4-18
5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT......................................................5-1
S.I Initial Study and Notice of Preparation...........................................S-I
5.2 Screencheck Draft FIR.................................................................S-2
5.2.1 General Information........................................................5-2
5.2.2 Discussion of Existing Conditions, Environmental Impacts and
Mitigation Measures....................................................................5-3
5.2.3 Alternatives to the Proposed Project.................................S-4
5.2.4 CEQA Mandated Sections...............................................5-4
5.3 Submittal and Review of Screencheck EIR......................................5-S
SADraft EIR....................................................................................5-5
S.S Response to Comments...............................................................5-5
5.6 Mitigation and Monitoring Program...............................................5-6
S.7 Statement of Overriding Considerations and Facts& Findings...........5-6
5.8 Final F_IR....................................................................................5-7
5.9 Workshops and Meetings.............................................................5-7
5.9.1 Public Scoping Meeting...................................................5-7
5.9.2 EIR Public Meetings.......... .............................................S-8
11
�� P
6. OUTREACH,WORKSHOPS,AND MEETINGS.............:a.:...... ................:.6-1
6.1 Project Team Coordination&Back
g Collection ............ .:..b 1
Background Coll
6.1.1 Project Initiation/Kick-off Meeting.....:.:...:........................6-1
6.1.2 Project Team Meetings.......................::.:........................6-2
6.1.3 Key Stakeholder Interviews..................::..........................6-2
6.1.4 Staff Bus Tour........................................:.......:...............6-3
6.1.5 Outreach Coordination and Support.................................6-3
6.2 Community Outreach and Facilitation............................................6-3
6.2.1 General Plan Steering Committee Meetings.......................6-4
6.2.2 Community Festivals(2)..................................................6-4
6.2.3 "Vision to Plan to Reality"Workshop Training and Kits.......6-5
6.3 Communication Tools and Collateral Materials...............................6-6
6.3.1 Informational Website(OPTIONAL).................................6-6
6.3.2 Project Newsletters (2) (OPTIONAL)................................6-6
iii
MA R61110 1 I M I III q 1 I M 1:11
1. Economic Component
The economic and fiscal analysis scope of work for the General Plan
Update will include:
► An analysis of economic conditions, trends and key issues;
► A Fiscal analysis of the preferred plan plus identification of key
fiscal issues;
► An analysis of tourism trends and opportunities; and
► Preparation of economic goals and policies (optional task).
1.1 Economic Conditions and Trends
Working closely with City staff, Stanley R. Hoffman Associates (SRHA)
would analyze the City's economic potential based on existing data
sources. This task will provide the base information for identifying key
issues and preparing economic goals and policies in a later task.
Socio-demographic Characteristics. This task would assemble existing
permanent and seasonal population, housing and employment trend
data. This work would draw from existing information, including the
latest Census data, California Department of Finance demographic data,
and other City or County studies, as identified. Additionally, information
would be compiled from the CVAG and SCAG Socio-economic
databases as they apply to Palm Springs. The information will address
current and future conditions.
Employment Characteristics. Key characteristics about the City's existing
and emerging employment will be-compared against the existing labor
force in Palm Springs and the greater regional area. Employment and
wage data at the detailed industry level for the City will be presented
based on data from the California Employment Development
Department (EDD), including: construction; manufacturing;
transportation and utilities; retail trade; wholesale trade; services; finance
1-1
as �`a
insurance and real estate (FIRE); and government. Issues to be
addressed include the wage and skill levels of the existing labor force
versus the types of jobs locating or expanding in the City. The major
implications for such issues as housing affordability and jobs/housing
balance will be discussed.
Market Characteristics and Trends. To the extent that information is
available from published sources, non-residential market data including
inventory, lease rates, and building activity trends will be assembled. This
analysis would be based on existing data sources such market data from
CB Richard Ellis and the Construction Industry Research Board. SRHA
will also address retail and non-retail taxable sales performance and
trends based on taxable sales data from the California State Board of
Eoualization.Additionally, other recent studies prepared for the City
would be reviewed. A key component of the retail analysis will be the
demand potential from different market segments including, permanent
households, seasonal households and visitors to the City's Convention
Center and Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians'gaming resort. We
understand that a market analysis is currently underway that will include
an extensive assessment of the retail trade in the City as well as potential
tenants for recruitment. Therefore, our analysis will Focus on the City's
existing retail sales performance and sales base to determine growth
potential over the long-term.
Economic Development Potential. This task will assemble economic data
that is specifically related to existing and future retail development, the
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' gaming resort plans for future
expansion, and the Convention Center's activity and plans for future
expansion.Also, a range of retail growth potential and
industrial/manufacturing potential will be presented based on trend
analyses presented in earlier tasks.
Existing Economic Development Programs, including Redevelopment.
Working closely with the Community Development staff, SRHA would
assemble current program information. This task would focus on
economic development programs and tools, such as redevelopment,
which would be used to address the changing market conditions,
particularly as it relates to improving jobs/housing balance and programs
that diversify the local economy.
1-2
a� NXX
Product:
Economic Development Trends Report&Key Issues
Identification
1.2 Tourism Trends and Opportunities Analysis
The intent of this task is to identiy key trends and target opportunities
for tourism, which is the critical component of the City's economy. The
three major areas of focus will include: 1) the expansion of the
Convention Center and support development; 2) the Agua Caliente
Band of Cahuilla Indians' gaming resort in the City; and 3) the Palm
Springs International Airport. The approach is to identify tourism
opportunities that promote and maintain a sound economic base for the
future. The analysis will build upon the City's existing documents and
studies, as well as trends throughout the Coachella Valley. SRHA will
also interview personnel from the Convention and Visitors Bureau and
Chamber of Commerce, and analyze any existing survey data. In
addition, SRHA will talk to staff at the Airport to obtain travel statistics
and other relevant information related to the Airport's role in the local
economy.
Product:
. Analysis of Tourism Trends and Opportunities
1.3 Fiscal Analysis of Preferred Plan
The purpose of the fiscal analysis is to anayze the mix of potential
General Plan land uses in order to maintain a fiscal balance over the
planning horizon. The analysis will also be used to understand the
impacts of possible changes in fiscal policy and economic conditions on
the City of Palm Springs from changes in the State budget. The analysis
will be based upon the most recent budgetary information.
The analysis will identiy the major sources of public revenues and costs,
and project the annual fiscal balance and revenue/cost ratios for the
preferred General Plan land use proposal. The fiscal analysis will be
developed through the following steps:
• Working closely with the project team, the land uses of the
Preferred General Plan will be assembled into a database for
fiscal analysis, including: acres, sQuare feet and valuation of
non-residential development; housing units by type, persons per
household and household income; and infrastructure
assumptions of public works, public buildings, parks, recreation
1-3
�q �\"
facilities, open space, fire stations and other public protection
facilities.
Public revenue and cost fiscal factors will be developed through
a current budget analysis and interviews with key departmental
staff. These factors will be based on the City's current level of
service standards.
• The fiscal analysis will be projected for the Preferred General
Plan at build-out and present key fiscal indicators, including:
surplus (deficit), revenue/cost ratio, and the distribution and
diversity of revenue sources by various land uses. We will also
examine the implications of key shifts in major revenue sources
at the State and Federal levels as well as potential changes in
local fiscal policy or key economic conditions.
• The fiscal analysis will be documented in a technical report with
a summary of key findings and fiscal issues that can result in
refinements to existing fiscal policies.
Product:
Fiscal Analysis of Preferred Plan and Identification of Key Fiscal
Issues
1.4 Economic Goals and Policies Guidance
(OPTIONAL)
This task will be closely coordinated with The Planning Center and the
City's Community Development staff to provide guidance in the
preparation of economic goals and policies for integration into a new
Economic Development Element. The work will build upon the
economic and demographic trend analysis as well as the City's existing
Economic Development Statement and prior economic development
strategic plans. SRHA's work will focus on identifying the key target
industries and economic policies that will lead to a strong local economy
and generate sufficient public revenues commensurate with a high Quality
of public services. The results of the previous analyses and public
workshop discussions will be assembled into a draft economic
development goals and policies for review and comment. This will
provide a framework for agreeing upon common economic policies and
priorities. SRHA will address trends and opportunities related to
different aspects of the City's economic base including the following:
Tourism and Entertainment;
1-4
r r i i
► Retail Trade;'
► Hotel and Convention Business; and
► Manufacturing and Industrial Development.,
Product:
• Economic Goals and Policies Guidance Memorandum
Approved: Date:
1.5 Administration and Coordination
This task allows for general project management related to the ongoing
work to prepare the economic analysis products. This includes the
identification of discussion issues for team meetings and monthly
progress reports on work completed.
Product:
Progress Reports, including economic discussion issues
1.6 Team Meetings
This task includes attendance by Stanley R. Hoffman Associates at two
team meetings in preparation of the General Plan update. Two (2)
project team coordination meetings for principal staff and two (2) for the
project manager are assumed to be necessary to obtain data and/or
review work in progress. For budgeting purposes, it is assumed that four
hours would be used per meeting, including travel time.
Product:
• Attendance at Team Meetings (2)
1.7 Public Meetings
Attendance at three (3) public meetings by Stanley R. Hoffman
Associates is assumed. Principal staff would attend each meeting. For
budgeting purposes, it is assumed that six hours would be used per
meeting, including travel time. Additional meetings would be billed
under a separate Scope of Work or on a time and materials basis upon
authorization.
Product:
• Attendance at Public Meetings (3)
I-S
2. Circulation Studies
2.1 Existing Conditions
2.1.1 Assemble Data
Parsons Brinckerhoff(PB) will assemble relevant transportation data from
the City, the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG),
Caltrans, Sunline Transit, and other agencies as appropriate. Data
assembled will include recent average daily traffic (ADT) counts on City
streets, existing and planned street lanes and rights-of-way(arterials and
collectors), current and planned transit service, existing and planned
non-motorized (bicycle and pedestrian) facilities, and relevant studies
and reports. Existing and current general plan land use in the City will
be provided by The Planning Center.
2.1.2 Develop Base Year Traffic Data/Volume/Capacity
Analysis
Existing ADT counts will be compared with existing capacity on City
arterial and collector streets (based on number of lanes and traffic
peaking characteristics) to determine existing volume/capacity ratios and
levels of service on City streets. Existing land use data will be used to
estimate current daily trip generation levels by sector of the City.
Current general plan land use data will be used to estimate future daily
trip generation levels under the current General Plan,
2.1.3 Obtain and Apply CVATS Model
Current datasets from the Coachella Valley Area Transportation Study
(CVATS) model will be obtained from CVAG. To ascertain the
comparability between CVATS and actual conditions, the CVATS
model's estimates of existing trip generation and existing ADT on City
streets will be compared with the current trip generation estimate
developed in Task 2.1.2. To ascertain the comparability between
CVATS (Year 2025) and current General Plan buildout trip levels, the
CVATS model's future trip generation estimate will be compared with
the current General Plan trip generation estimate developed in Task
2.1.2.
2.2 Traffic Projections
2.2.1 Develop Future Year Traffic Data/Volume/Capacity
Analysis
Forecasts of future ADT at General Plan buildout will be prepared for up
to three land use alternatives. Future ADT volumes across screenlines
will be estimated based on sector trip generation growth, and future
ADT volumes on individual streets will be determined by total screenline
volumes onto individual streets following procedures in National
Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Report #187,
Volume/capacity analysis will be used to determine the appropriate
roadway classification and number of lanes for each arterial and collector
street.
2.2.2 Prepare Transportation Technical Report
PB will prepare a draft technical report which documents the data,
assumptions, analysis, and findings of the transportation analysis. The
City and The Planning Center will provide PB with a consolidated set of
comments on the draft report. PB will prepare a final report,
incorporating responses to comments on the draft report.
2.3 Circulation Plan
PB will prepare text and figures for use as input to the Draft Circulation
Element, which The Planning Center will utilize to prepare the Element.
This input could include, as appropriate:
► Issues Analysis, Opportunities, and Constraints
► Roadway Classification Assessment& Recommendations/Street
Standards
► Parking Policy Assessment & Recommendations
► Master Plan of Bikeways Assessment& Recommendations
► Public Transportation Assessment& Recommendations,
including Intermodal Connections
► Strategies to improve access to Palm Springs International
Airport (coordinate with Airport Master Plan and Economic
Benefit Study)
2-2 ��
2.4 Impact Analysis and EIR Input-.,
PB will provide The Planning Center with technical,input (text, figures„or
maps as appropriate) for conducting the transportation impact analysis
(circulation and parking) for the General Plan EIR..' PB will also revise.
technical input to the EIR in response to City comments,on-the
screencheck EIR and provide written responses to comments on the
transportation impact analysis section of the EIR.
2.5 Citywide Traffic Model (OPTIONAL)
2.5.1 City-level model development
PB will refine the zone structure, roadway network, and centroid
connections of the CVATS model to create a traffic forecasting model
with appropriate level of detail for forecasting traffic volumes on
individual City streets in Palm Springs.
2.5.2 Land Use and Trip Generation
Using the land use database provided by The Planning Center, PB will
assign existing land uses to traffic analysis zones in the City. Existing trip
generation will he calculated for each traffic analysis zone based on the
existing land use.
2.5.3 Trip Distribution and Assignment
For trip distribution, PB will adjust the CVATS trip tables (using a
FRATAR process) to match the land use-based trip generation in the
City. Traffic will be assigned to the street system using the CVATS
assignment procedure.
2.5.4 Model Validation
The Palm Springs model will be validated to replicate existing ADT
counts across screenlines and on individual streets, following the
guidelines for acceptable tolerance in NCHRP Report #2SS.
2.5.5 Future (General Plan) Forecasts
Using the future land use database provided by The Planning Center, PB
will assign future land uses to traffic analysis zones in the City. Future
trip generation, trip distribution, and traffic assignment procedures will
follow the procedures in the validated baseyear model, using the
CVATS future horizon trip tables for trips outside Palm Springs.
2.5.6 Model Documentation Report
PB will prepare a draft technical report which documents the model
procedures and validation results. City staff will provide PB with a single
, � - 3
set of comments on the draft report. PB will prepare a final report which
addresses City staff comments on the draft.
Approved: Date:
2.6 Meeting Attendance
PB will attend up to four (4) meetings as part of the technical analysis,
up to two (2) meetings as part of Circulation Element preparation, and
up to three (3) meetings with City staff in Palm Springs as part of the EIR
preparation and review.
2.4 tn
�
S. Technical Studies
3.1 Baseline Studies
It should be noted that technical studies are necessary to supply
understanding and logic for the basis of the General Plan Update and
preparation of the associated Environmental Impact Report. As a part of
the Baseline Studies, The Planning Center will:
► Gather, review and analyze relevant data;
► Conduct photo surveys, field surveys, and view analysis;
► Interview key City officials; and
► Document opportunities and constraints.
3AA Noise
The Planning Center proposes a technical approach that includes:
Identification and appraisal of existing noise sources within the City
including existing stationary sources(wind turbines,natural gas pipelines,
industry), railroads,the Palm Springs Municipal Airport, highways and
freeways, and primary arterials and major local streets. Noise
measurements obtained along major arterial roadways and adjacent
freeways such as the I-10 will be accompanied by vehicle counts. This,
vehicle-generated noise shall then be modeled using the F.H.W.A.
Highway Noise Prediction Model using California Vehicle Emission Noise
(CALVENO) curves. This allows for calibration of the model which is
subseQuently used to generate noise contours along major City-wide
roadways.
Vehicle noise modeling using build-out vehicle projections and the
F.H.W.A.Noise Prediction model to determine future projected noise
contours and potential impacts on existing and proposed land uses. The
analysis shall be conducted in a manner consistent with the Federal
Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act. While most measures
included in the Act are directly related to traffic, land use, and air
Quality, the noise analysis shall incorporate all applicable measures as
described in these various discipline areas_ Where these data project
land use compatibility conflicts, methods to reduce this noise shall be
discussed. These methods could include restrictions on heavy trucks,
the use of sound walls, alternative types of paving materials, building set-
backs, alternative land uses.
The Palm Springs Municipal Airport is a major noise source within the
City. Noise contours, where available, will be compiled from existing
documentation of noise generated by the airport.
Identification of existing noise sensitive land uses,including residential
areas,schools,and churches. Noise sensitive land uses will be plotted
on a map of the City, based on the Land Use Element, field surveys and
consultation with City Staff. Using traffic data, vehicle noise curves will
be developed and overlaid on this map. Major stationary sources of
noise such as large-scale factories, will also be documented in the field
study and included on the map. Any local noise problems and areas of
conflict between noise sources and sensitive areas will be identified.
A discussion of appropriate standards and criteria for noise exposure.
These standards will be based on noise levels where activity interference
is kept to a minimum and annoyance levels are still low but can
realistically be achieved. At this time, we envision that the criteria will
include both the State recommendations for land use compatibility with
modification to reduce annoyance factors. For example, the State
standard is stated in terms of an allowable 24-hour, time-weighted
average. However, as short-term noise of excessive volume may
constitute a nuisance, the selected criteria will also include maximum
allowable noise levels over various periods of time both during the day
and at night when receptors are more sensitive to noise intrusion. All
criteria will be developed in consultation with the City to ensure that
planning goals are met.
A discussion of applicable techniques that may effectively be used to
reduce excessive noise within the City. Current techniQues to reduce
vehicle-generated noise as well as future techniQues under consideration
will be determined through consultation with Caltrans, as well as, a
literature review. Stationary sources of noise may be reduced via
methods which physically shield noisy pieces of eQuipment, or though
the use of the muffler and air intake restriction systems. Areas where
existing noise cannot feasibly be reduced shall also be noted and land
use restrictions on adjoining parcels may be reQuired.
A discussion of the Noise Element in relation to other relevant sections
includingthe Land Use and Circulation Elements of the General Plan.
Incompatibilities and discrepancies will be brought to the attention of
3-2
City staff and methods to resolve any such problems wil'I%be explored'
prior to the submittal of a draft document.
Products:
Noise Analysis
3.1.2 Air Quality
Our proposed scope of work includes:
A summary of the existing setting which provides an overview of both local
meteorological phenomenon and the existing air quality conditions
including a description of pollutants of concern and their effects on the
environment. The most current fiveyears of data as monitored at the
most proximate monitoring station operated by the SCAQMD will also
be included. Use of this data then allows us to determine air Quality
trends.
A summary of the existing regulatory setting and the roles of federal,
State,and local agencies,including the SCAQMD and SCAG. This section
discusses the current status of the South Coast Air Quality Management
Plan and the special provisions for the Coachella Valley.
A review of air emissions currently generated within the City. As Feasible,
based on existing land uses, the analysis will use the California Air
Resources Board's URBEMIS2002 model to project the daily volume of
emissions generated within the City. This analysis will allow us to
determine baseline air Quality over which impacts are to be assessed.
A projection of air emissions generated within the City at build-out as
feasible. This analysis will again use the URBEMIS2002 model and its
methodology to project future emissions generated within the City and
will emphasize impacts created by the proposed land use designation
changes. Because most air Quality emissions are due to the use of motor
vehicles, this analysis will draw heavily on the traffic analysis and
projected trip rates associated with any proposed land use changes.
A discussion of measures that can reduce both mobile and stationary
source emissions. In addition to emissions savings gained though land
use planning, substantial emissions reductions can also be gained though
transportation enhancement measures. Such measures to be discussed
include, but are not limited to, enhanced traffic flow though intersection
design and stoplight timing, methods to encourage ride sharing, and the
benefits of reduced emissions through public transportation.
Additionally, stationary source emissions reductions are available
through the use of such measures as increased insulation, thermal
windows, and high efficiency/low emissions appliances and lighting.
Through the issuance of conditional use permits, the Planning
Commission has the ability to reouire implementation of such measures
prior to construction, further contributing to local emissions reductions.
Products:
Air Quality Analysis
3A.3 Biology
Preparation of a technical study will include a windshield survey, review
of aerial photography/mapping, literature review (including the Coachella
Valley Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan, the Western Riverside
MSHCP, the Agua Caliente Habitat Conservation Plan, and City-
provided biological reports). A summary technical report will be
provided as background to the General Plan. This scope assumes the
City will provide previous surveys, reports and a GIS database.
Products:
Biological Analysis
3.2 Geotechnical, Hydrological, and Hazards
Analysis
Earth Consultants International (ECI)will prepare the Technical Report
to the Safety Element for the City of Palm Springs, and assist The
Planning Center with the preparation of the new Safety Element. The
updated Technical Report will use clear language and graphics to
describe the natural and man-made hazards that can impact the City.
To do this project as cost-effectively as possible, we will rely on the
mapping and analysis we completed for the 2000 Riverside County
Safety Element, plus the work we have done for many of the cities
surrounding Palm Springs. Even though a substantial amount of data
will be derived from these previous studies, new data has become
available in the last fewyears. We will review and incorporate the most
recent scientific data available on the surface rupture and ground shaking
potential in the area, the ground subsidence issues in the Coachella
Valley, and the potential contamination of groundwater resources with
Perchlorate, among others.
ECEs Technical Background Reports to Safety Elements typically consist
of several chapters or sections, each addressing a specific hazard
category. The chapters that we propose to prepare for the City of Palm
Springs include the following:
34 tiI �
► Seismic Hazards: Ground shaking, fault rupture agdshaking-
induced ground deformation (IiQuefaction and;seftlemeot)
► Geologic Hazards: Subsidence, slope stability and geotechnical
constraints to development, including wind erosion
► Flooding and Inundation Hazards: Storm flooding, and catastrophic
failure of dams and reservoirs
► Fire Hazards: Wildland-urban fires, structural fires, fire after-
earthQuake scenarios, and chemical fires
► Hazardous Materials Management: Leaking underground storage
tanks; air, soil and groundwater contamination, including particulate
emissions due to windstorms, and perchlorate contamination of the
groundwater due to agricultural irrigation.
In each of the chapters or sections above, ECI will describe the natural
and/or man-made conditions reQuired for a given hazard to occur, and
we will identify those areas of the City susceptible to damage. Each
hazard will also be evaluated as to its likelihood to impact Palm Springs,
and the magnitude of the damage that could be expected. Once these
hazards have been identified and evaluated, ECI will assist The Planning
Center in developing the goals, policies and programs that can be
implemented to guide the safe development of the City through the next
generation.
It is assumed that ECI will not attend any meetings. Should the City
desire their attendance at any meeting, their time will be billed on a time
and materials basis.
Products:
Seismic and Geologic Analysis
Hydrological Analysis
Fire and Hazardous Materials Analysis
3.3 Technical Appendix
The purpose of this task is to consolidate and document the technical
analyses conducted above for use as a technical appendix in the General
Plan Environmental Impact Report.
Product:
Consolidated General Plan Technical Appendix
3-5
I
4. General Plan
4.1 Land Use Element
4.1.1 Land Use Element Formatting
The Planning Center will meet with City staff to discuss the organization
and content of the Land Use Element.A Land Use Element Format and
organizational structure will be proposed by The Planning Center and
finalized based on feedback from City staff. It is our goal to provide the
City with a format and structure that is user-friendly and streamlined.
Products:
Land Use Element Format
4.1.2 Existing Land Use Analysis,Verification, Update and
Documentation
Using the baseline existing land use data provided by the City, The
Planning Center will perform a comprehensive evaluation of the City's
existing land uses, review relevant information provided by the City
related to land use, and will work with City staff to identify the suitability
of the current General Plan Land Use Designations. We will also update
the City's existing land use map. This task assumes the map revisions
will be an update of the City's existing GIS files; a budget augmentation
would be necessary if the existing land use map must be developed from
the ground up.
Products:
Existing Land Use Analysis
4.1.3 Identify Issues, Opportunities, and Constraints
Based on the information gathered in Task 4.1.2 and our meetings with
City Staff, we will compile an inventory of land use issues relevant to the
preparation of the General Plan Update and EIR. Depending on the
timing of community outreach efforts, we will also include insights from
4-1
4""�w
stakeholders and community members if they are available. A format
will be established for capturing the City's issues, opportunities and
constraints, which will be derived from data review, meetings with City
officials and staff, public outreach, and the consultant team's knowledge
of the City, as well as past experience in similarly complex planning
situations. The inventory will include an assessment of present
conditions, analysis of key changes and constraints and the
interrelationship among the planning issues addressed.
Products:
. Issues, Opportunities, and Constraints Summary
4.1.4 Identify Areas of Opportunity
Not every area of the City needs the same level of Land Use revisions or
adjustments in the General Plan update. Generally, the City consists of
areas where:
► Development is sound, and what is needed is to maintain or
enhance the Quality that already exists;
► Development is no longer of the Quality desired by the
community and needs revitalization or replacement;
► Land is vacant and contemporary guidance for new development
is needed in order to achieve optimum results;
► Economic pressures are such that some change in land use or
development standards is reQuired in order to capitalize on
changes in the economy; or
► Change is desired for a variety of reasons and some means must
be found to stimulate it.
As part of this task, we will identify"Opportunity Areas," which are
focused areas where change is imminent and reQuires guidance, or
where change is desired and reQuires both guidance and incentives. An
important part of the update process is reaching agreement on the
location, extent, and nature of opportunity areas throughout the City.
New land use designations may or may not be applied in these focused
areas. Alternatively, stronger policy and program attention may be
applied to achieve the desired future direction. The General Plan
Update budget dictates that land use changes will only be brought into
play where they truly offer the possibility of a better direction.
42 ;
The following are example Opportunity Areas that'could`be'explored:
► Downtown
► Palm Springs Airport
► Palm Springs Convention Center
► Palm Springs Desert Museum
► Redevelopment Areas
► Corridors
Product:
Designation and evaluation of Opportunity Areas
4.1.5 Develop Concepts for Neighborhood Enhancement and
Preservation
Palm Springs is comprised of an eclectic collection of neighborhoods
that range in architectural character and Quality and cater to a variety of
incomes and lifestyles. The Ciy's wide variety of residential
neighborhoods warrants special policy direction to ensure these areas
are enhanced, preserved, maintained, or refurbished where appropriate.
Products:
Neighborhood Enhancement and Preservation Policy Guidance
4.1.6 Study Jobs/Housing Relationships
A key component of the Land Use Element will be to explore the balance
of jobs and housing within the City. Not only does the City have a
business population and permanent resident population to address, but
it also needs to clearly understand how the seasonal residents and
tourists impact that jobs/housing balance. During the preparation of
the Land Use Element, The Planning Center will explore the relationships
between the business and residential populations, and identify
opportunities that should be capitalized upon to ensure the City
maintains an appropriate level of jobs and housing for the workers that
live in the City.
Product:
Jobs/Housing Analysis
4-3 tt^
��,I
4.1.7 Develop Concepts for Creating and Enhancing
Recognizable Places
Palm Springs has a wide-spread reputation for being a destination resort.
The City's natural desert setting and mountainous surroundings, the
character and architecture of downtown, and even the region's wind
turbines all contribute to making Palm Springs a recognizable place.
Building upon the City's existing opportunities, we will create policy
direction and guidance that will enhance and build upon distinctive City
spaces and places, which will further the image and recognition of Palm
Springs as world class desert resort community, and a Quality place to
live, work, and recreate.
Product:
Placemaking Policy Guidance
4.1.8 Develop Preferred Land Use Plan
The Planning Center will prepare a Land Use Plan based on feedback
provided by City Staff, outreach, interviews and stakeholder insights.
The Land Use Plan will depict the physical location, distribution, density,
and intensity of land uses. This task will result In land use plan and
policy recommendations as well as design guidance that could also be
included in the Community Design Element.
There are many ways to receive effective feedback on the preferred Land
Use Plan. One of the most effective ways is through working meetings
with City staff and other key members of other City and local agencies.
In these working meetings, we will present findings from previous
analysis and outreach efforts, and engage the participants in a "roll up
the sleeves" exercise and discussion of possible land use changes. Our
experience with similar projects has shown us that this type of
"brainstorming" meeting with key project participants greatly facilitates
the creation of a conceptual land use plan that meets the jurisdiction's
goals and objectives while establishing strong consensus about the land
use changes that are to be made in a short period of time.
Products:
• Citywide Land Use Plan
• Statistical Summaries
4-4
�,
W, ' 101 01 1
4.1.9 Develop Statistical Summary
The Planning Center, in consultation with City staff, Stan Hoffman
Associates, and Parsons Brinckerhoff, will establish'a methodology to
calculate socioeconomic projections for the land use designations and
ultimate Land Use Plan. It is advantageous to establish a consistent set
of factors at the outset as they will feed into the subseQuent circulation,
economic, and environmental evaluation. Factors may include dwelling
units per acre, persons per household, labor force participation rates,
floor area ratios, employment generation factors and souare feet per
employee to name a few.
Products:
. Socioeconomic Projections &Statistical Summary
4.1.10 Develop Descriptive Text, Element Goals, Policies and
Programs
The Planning Center will create a user-friendly Land Use Element for use
by City Staff, stakeholders, decision makers, and the general public. The
Land Use Element will contain graphics, diagrams, tables, and text that
efficiently convey necessary information in addition to being easy to
understand.
As discussed previously, The Planning Center will prepare the
organization and structure of the Land Use Element in conjunction with
City staff. The Land Use Element will be prepared in accordance with the
State Government Code.
The Planning Center will prepare a Screencheck Draft and Public Review
Draft Land Use Element. Upon receipt of a consolidated set of
comments from Staff, The Planning Center will incorporate changes into
the draft document for public review. We assume the City will bear the
costs for reproduction and distribution of both the Screencheck and
Public Review Draft documents. Costs for copies and distribution
incurred by The Planning Center will be billed on a time and materials
basis.
Products:
Screencheck Land Use Element (One camera-ready color
original, one electronic File in MS-Word format)
• Public Review Draft Land Use Element (One camera-ready color
original, one electronic file in MS-Word format, one electronic
m
file in PDF format suitable for posting on City's website, one set
of wall-size Land Use Element exhibits)
4.2 Circulation and Trails Element
The Circulation Element of the General Plan will address the following
objectives:
► Maximize the use of existing and potential non-vehicular
transportation systems;
► Prepare recommendations for the roadway system and for
transit, and bicycle circulation systems;
► Build upon capacities established in the existing roadway
network; and
► Provide maximum accessibility to support the land use plan with
the least impact on existing neighborhoods.
Based on the background analyses prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff,
The Planning Center will prepare the Screencheck Draft Circulation
Element and include revisions in the subsemlent Draft document.
Products:
Screencheck and Draft Circulation Element
4.3 Conservation, Open Space,
Parks and Recreation
Element
4.3.1 Preparation of Element
The Planning Center Team will prepare a Conservation, Open Space,
Parks, and Recreation Element that addresses open space for the
preservation, conservation, and managed production of natural
resources, open space for outdoor recreation, and open space for public
health and safety. Guidance and standards from any available parks and
recreation or community services plans will also be integrated into the
policy direction that is developed within this element.
Products:
Screencheck and Draft Conservation, Open Space, Parks and
Recreation Element
4.3.2 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan (OPTIONAL)
Since the City is in the midst of updating Its General Plan, the update
process can benefit from the development of a Parks and Recreation
Strategic Plan. Integration of a Strategic Plan with the General Plan
4-6 "°
Ilion
offers an unusually powerful opportunity. Work on the General',Plan can
illuminate issues for the Strategic Plan, while Strategic Plan'Work can ",; "
identify needed improvements in the General Plan acid its relevant,policy
areas. This is an opportunity to take Palm Springs one,step further in
creating a mission statement and vision for the Parks and Recreation
Department because complementary policy direction sup port img.the
Department's future direction can be formulated concurrently.
The changing demographics of Palm Springs and the number of park
users coming from outside the City are factors that emphasize the value
of creating a Strategic Plan at this time.
4.3.2.1 Parks and Recreation Needs and Opportunities Public
Participation Program
MIG will assist the City in developing a public participation program that
focuses on gathering input From the community to understand the issues
and opportunities related to parks, open space and recreation needs in
the City of Palm Springs, This information will be used to develop the
General Plan Community Festival and can be used to guide future parks
and recreation planning such as the development of a Strategic Plan or a
comprehensive Master Plan for the department. The following outlines a
process that will achieve this.
Key Stakeholder Interviews
MIG will interview up to eight (8) stakeholders for input on current
community understandings, priorities, issues and perceived needs.
Interviews may be conducted by telephone or in person. Stakeholders
can include Parks and Recreation Commissioners and Public Works staff.
We will work with the City to develop interview Questions and identify
appropriate stakeholders. MIG will prepare a summary of key findings
that will inform the General Plan process.
Approved: Date:
Focus Groups
To determine key issues priorities and community facility and
programming needs, MIG recommends conducting two focus groups
with key stakeholders representing various interests. The first would
represent program/service providers and community resources such as
contractors, concessionaires, facility managers and school district
administrators. A second focus groups would include current and
potential new customers. These participants might include key outdoor
environmental groups and community advocates, adult andyouth sports
4-7 �
groups, golfers, teens and seniors. MIG will meet with staff to
determine the groups that should participate in the focus groups.
MIG will facilitate and create a wall graphic as a record of the meeting as
well as a text summary.
Approved: Date:
Parks&Recreation Directions Workshop
MIG will facilitate a Parks and Recreation Workshop with staff and key
stakeholders. The purpose of the workshop will be two-fold: [)it will
provide an opportunity for staff and key stakeholders to discuss
opportunities for the Future of parks, open space, recreation and Facilities
that can be incorporated into the General Plan and 2) to develop a
process and timeline for implementation of a plan that will provide
direction for the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Approved: Date:
4.3.2.2 Strategic Evaluation Process
Establishingthe Department Mission Statement
The Strategic Plan Mission Statement sets the tone for the issues and
strategies identified in the Strategic Plan document. The Planning
Center will create a new mission statement based on community and
staff input, will validate the mission statement or make recommendations
for refinement of the mission statement.
Product:
Updated Department Mission Statement and supporting
discussion
Issues Identification
This task identifies the major issues facing the Parks and Recreation
Department and allows for more deliberate and thoughtful consideration
of the Department's priorities. The Planning Center will identify the
major issues facing the Department in terms of the delivery of facilities
and services based on the demographic analysis, citizen survey, and
public meetings that have been completed in previous tasks. These
issues will ultimately be summarized within the Strategic Plan document.
Product:
i ethnical Memorandum outlining issues to be included in Final
Strategic Plan
48
� �
1 WOMI 7111 Ilion
General Plan Consistency
The Planning Center's experience with the City's;':General,'Plan Update
will provide us with an advantage in this area. Work completed on the
Strategic Plan will shape the development of the goals and policies
identified in the Conservation, Open Space, Parks and,Recreation and
other elements of the General Plan.
Product:
Technical Memorandum with recommendations for consistency
with the General Plan
Develop Strategies
This task will evaluate the relative importance of ongoing recreational
programs and determine potential future programs that might better
serve the City's residents. We will analyze those programs that are no
longer relevant, those that are still desirable, and those that are desirable
with some change in direction.
Product:
Technical Memorandum outlining program analysis
4.3.2.3 Preparing the Strategic Plan
During this phase, The Planning Center will compile data collected from
the previous tasks and summarize the information in a written report.
Draft Strategic Plan
The purpose of this task is to prepare the complete, integrated version
of the Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan. The Planning Center will
assemble text, graphics, and tables from previous tasks into a draft
comprehensive Strategic Plan Report, which will be submitted to City
staff for review and comment. Once we have collected those comments,
we will modify the document accordingly.
Products:
• Four (4) copies of the Draft Strategic Plan documents for review
and revision
• One (1) digital copy of the Draft Strategic Plan (provided via e-
mail or on CD-Rom)
4-90v
Assumption:
• City Staff will duplicate the draft document and distribute to any
workshop participants, or interdepartmental staff. No more than two (2)
rounds of revision are proposed for the draft document.
Final Strategic Plan and Presentation Graphics
Once City Staff, community groups, and focus groups have commented
on the Draft Strategic Plan, The Planning Center will incorporate those
changes into a final document. One camera-ready copy and one digital
copy of the report will be prepared and delivered to the Parks and
Recreation Department. A PowerPoint presentation of the results will
also be prepared for presentation to the City Council.
Product:
• One (1) camera-ready copy of the Final Strategic Plan Update
• One (1) digital copy of the Final Strategic Plan Update
(provided via e-mail or on CD-Rom)
Approved: Date:
4.4 Safety Element
The Planning Center will update the Safety Element based upon
information collected From the technical analyses provided by Earth
Consultants International (see Task 3.2) and input from City staff. The
Safety Element will address geology and seismicity, slope instability,
flooding, hazardous materials, fire hazards and prevention, emergency
preparedness, crime prevention, and airport land use compatibility.
Products:
. Screencheck and Draft Safety Element
4.5 Air Quality Element (OPTIONAL)
This is an optional element in the General Plan. The City presently
addresses air Quality in the Health and Safety Element. The Planning
Center has expert in-house staff who can prepare all aspects of an Air
Quality Element. The City can increase its control over local air Quality
via land use policy and planning measures such as criteria for siting
sensitive land uses. Formulation of an Air Quality Element can also assist
in intergovernmental coordination of air pollution control activities with
the South Coast Air Quality Management District by providing clear
4-10 T . 10 ,
articulation of the Ciy's strategies and establishing positive ,
communication links,
The proposed scope of the Air Quality Element includes: 1) a summary
of the existing air Quality and meteorological setting;;,2).a summary of the
existing regulatory setting; 3) a review of air pollutant emissions
generated within the City as it now exists; 4) a projection of airemissions
at future build-out per the Land Use and Circulation Elements; 5)
identification of siting criteria for proposed land uses to ensure
compatibility; 6) a discussion of land use planning techniQues to reduce
emissions; and 7) a discussion of measures to reduce both mobile and
stationary source emissions.
Products:
Screencheck and Draft Air Quality Element
Approved: Date:
4.6 Noise Element
The Noise Element, a mandated component of the General Plan,
contains data and analyses, policies and their means of implementation
as related to the noise environment. Specifically, Government Code
Section 65302(I), reQuires that the General Plan include a Noise
Element which identifies and evaluates noise problems in the community.
The Element must recognize the guidelines adopted by the State Office
of Noise Control. Finally, it must analyze and Quantify current and
projected noise levels for mobile sources including that produced along
highways, freeways, primary arterials, and major local streets, aircraft
operations, railroad operations, local large-scale industrial facilities, and
other ground-based stationary sources identified by local agencies as
contributing to the community noise environment.
Our proposed scope of work will update to the Noise Element to include
a discussion of the effects of noise on the local population as well as land
use compatibility issues, which can range From minor annoyance to the
detriment of health. These effects, and the noise levels necessary to
generate them, will be discussed in the document.
Products:
• Screencheck and Draft Noise Element
4-11
4.7 Community Design Element
The Planning Center proposes to create a Community Design Element
emphasizing urban design concepts through text and descriptive
illustrations. We propose a comprehensive element that reflects
application of urban design and community character concepts in the
development of goals, policies, strategies and implementation measures
for the City. Preliminary concepts of CPTED (Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design) will be included in the Element. The
following subtasks are involved in the preparation of the Community
Design Element.
► Review of existing design conditions and community design
opportunities within the City, which may include:
• Streetscape elements;
Landscape elements;
• Building massing;
Open space/handscape opportunities;
• Intersection treatment;
• Major retail areas;
• Public art opportunities;
Transit and pedestrian opportunities;
• Signage and lighting;and/or,
• Conditions contributing to incidence of crime.
► Examine major decisions impacting urban form. The
examination would include:
• Current City and focused private sector development
proposals;
• Revitalization goals and objectives;
• City design theme;
• Infrastructure and transit plans;
• Application of CPTED principles.
► Provide strategic recommendations that will guide the
development of the City. Focal point of existing and potential
activity will be delineated and expanded to encompass related
subareas and "special opportunity areas." Goals and policies will
be developed to establish what programs or changes will be
instituted to achieve the community character Palm Springs
desires. Topics to be addressed could include:
• Building form and massing;
4-12
I Ulm
r
• Modified development standards of site coverage/FAR
building height and setbacks;
Entrances and orientation (vehicular and pedestrian);
Design reinforcement (landscape'& hardscape)street
trees, medians, paving, furniture;
• Land use modifications;
• Parking standards (type, locational criteria; design);
• ReQuired connecting elements (arcades, courtyards);
Transit& pedestrian access;
• Lighting;
Open space guidelines (public & private);
Public art and community amenities/facilities; and
• Signage and monumentation.
The recommendations and strategies addressing these topics will be
consolidated into an implementation program.
Products:
Screencheck and Draft Community Design Element
4.8 Downtown Urban Design Program
(OPTIONAL)
An optional component to the Community Design Element is the
Downtown Urban Design Program. This program would Focus
specifically on the Downtown area and would produce more detailed
standards and development guidelines than are usually found at the
General Plan level.
4.8A Downtown Direction Facilitation
MIG will assist the City with facilitation services to augment the
development of specific guidance for Downtown. This two-phase
program will focus on 1) understanding the issues, opportunities and
future directions for Downtown from the perspective of Downtown
stakeholders and 2) refining these opportunities and directions in
consultation with those who will be involved in their future
implementation. The results can then be used by the City and the
General Plan Team in designing focused visual simulations of the future
Downtown directions and in developing specific Design Guidelines for
buildings, infrastructure and streetscapes to enable implementation of
the future directions. The following outlines a process that will achieve
this.
4-13
p C 36
4.8.1.1 Scoping and Resource Interviews
MIG will conduct brief telephone interviews of select Downtown
stakeholders and interests to explore prevalent issues, opinions, and
recommendations for change shape the future function and design of the
Downtown Area.
MIG will prepare a brief summary of key findings that will be used by the
City, the General Plan Team and MIG to design the Downtown
Directions Workshop.
4.8.1.2 Downtown Opportunities and Directions Workshop
The General Plan Team will conduct a three-hour Downtown
Opportunities and Directions Workshop. This workshop will be
designed to engage the broad base of Downtown stakeholders and
interests, including: retail owners and tenants; tribal interests; the
hospitality, entertainment and tourism industries; the Chamber of
Commerce; developers; cultural resources; and Downtown
homeowner/residential interests, among others. MIG will facilitate the
meeting using MIG's graphic recording techniQue, which uses graphic
notetaking on large sheets of paper to capture the discussion in real
time. MIG will prepare a summary of meeting notes in the form of
I Ix17 photoreduction of up to two wallgraphics.
4.8.1.3 Downtown Opportunities Focus and Implementation Charrette
Based on the outcomes of the Downtown Opportunities and Directions
Workshop, the General Plan Team will design and conduct a focused
half-day design charette. This charrette will involve selected downtown
landowners and developers, tribal interests, City Staff, and Downtown
business leadership in defining specific opportunities and directions,
including (but not limited to) visualization and modeling; Design
Guidelines; street and streetscape plans and program directions. It is
envisioned that this charette will mainly be comprised of City staff,
stakeholder architects, outreach representatives From MIG, and
designers from The Planning Center. Concepts coming out of the
Downtown Opportunities and Directions Workshop (Task 4.8.1.2)will
inform this charrette, which will produce generate conceptual
illustrations to be used by City Staff and the General Plan Team and
others in developing the supporting mechanisms to implement the vision
and directions for Downtown Palm Springs.
4.8AA 3DModeling
Strategic Downtown Areas will be explored using 3D computer
modeling. Planning concepts including new buildings, landscape and
streetscape design, will be integrated into the existing downtown context
4-14
..
within a series of 3D models. It will be possible to '!visualize"'the
planning concepts in order to fully understand the;potential plang7ng; .
architectural and design ideas.
4.8.1.5 Preliminary Investigation
This phase is designed to collect information and data about the
designated sites in order to begin constructing the 31) models. Existing
information obtained From various sources, such as digital topography,
aerial photos, existing land uses, and site photography will be evaluated
and assessed.An information inventory will be conducted to determine
what information is available, what information needs to be collected or
what information needs to be produced.
Product:
• Data collection and preparation $ 3,500
4.8.1.6 3D Computer Massing Model of Project
This phase represents the bulk of work For this process. A series of 3D
computer models will be constructed of three (3) downtown block Faces.
Planning concepts will be incorporated into these study models. The
creation of these 3D computer models will provide a valuable visual tool,
allowing For an exploration of existing structures, roadways and land
uses. Through the use of 3D models, it will be possible to test the
feasibility of future planning projects when introduced into the existing
context of the Downtown area. Within the 3D scenes, cameras are set-
up and renderings or "snapshots" can be taken from any location or
angle. These renderings can be printed to use in documents or digitally
saved for inclusion in PowerPoint presentations.
Product:
3D Computer Model of three (3) City blocks $4,000 each
10 renderings "snapshots" per model
4.8.1.7 Meetings
Team meetings and/or design workshops are an integral part of the
preparation and processing of the design concept. Given the depth and
breadth of the project we anticipate the need for two of our lead people
to attend team meetings. At this time, we are budgeting for three
meetings with the design team and/or city staff. Additional meeting will
be billed at $500 ea.
4-15
4.8.1.8 Development of Downtown Design Guidance Package
The Planning Center will develop a customized tool to guide future
development of specified areas of Downtown Palm Springs. The
feedback generated from the workshops and design charette discussed
above will dictate what the most appropriate tool will be for this
component of the project. One option may be a specialized set of
Urban Design Guidelines for the Downtown Core, which will be
incorporated into the Community Design Element. It is anticipated that
any planning tool developed through this task would address issues such
as:
► Appropriate building scale and heights;
► Preferred architectural styles and colors;
► Integration of new architectural styles with classic Palm Springs
architecture;
► Streetscape design;
► Framing of vital hillside views;
► Optimum pathways and locations for vehicular traffic and
parking;
► Enhancement of the pedestrian experience;
► Placement, size, and design of signage; and
► Creating dynamic, economically viable public spaces.
It is envisioned that the evaluation exercises related to the design and
functionality of Downtown Palm Springs would be conducted
concurrently with the background analyses of the General Plan.
Although this task is on a separate but parallel path with the General
Plan Update, the information acQuired through either exercise has the
potential to inform the other. This can lead to a more comprehensive
understanding of the issues and can result in a more successful outcome
for public and private interests involved.
Product:
• Downtown Urban Design Guidance
Approved: Date:
4-16
, . l 1
4.9 Housing Element Update (OPTIONAL)
Per State law, the Housing Element will need to Ibe`updated to be,
consistent with State law and any changes to the City's Land Use plan off
the General Plan update. The primary effort in updating the Housing
Element will involve the identification of opportunity areas,for affordable
housing production. This step will be done concurrently With the
preparation of the Land Use Plan to ensure the City considers all of its
needs, opportunities, and responsibilities.
According to SCAG, the generation of the 2005 RHNA figures may not
be generated by the luly 2005 target date due to conflicts in State and
local funding. Additionally, SCAG is taking action that could possibly
further delay the Housing Element update deadline to 2007 or 2008 to
coincide with SCAG RTP activities.
These variables indicate that the City should update its Housing Element
to consider the projected growth figures provided by SCAG's most
recent RTP projections. If the Land Use Plan does not accommodate a
sufficient number of housing units, it may need to be revised when the
2005 RHNA figures are ultimately released. However, we anticipate
that the City and consultant team's close coordination with the State
Department of Housing and Community Development and SCAG will
generate reliable assumptions for projected housing need.
Products:
. Screencheck and Draft Public Housing Element
Approved: Date:
4.10 Public Services and Facilities Element
(OPTIONAL)
This Element will address the City's public services (i.e., fire protection,
police protection, schools, parks or other recreational facilities, library
facilities, maintenance of public facilities, including roads, and other
governmental services). This Element will be developed through input
from several sources elsewhere in the General Plan scope. Goals,
policies, strategies and programs needed to supplement, modify, or
replace those in the current General Plan will be derived from the
detailed analyses prepared in the Existing Conditions Analysis and Land
Use Alternatives Evaluation tasks.
4-17
Products:
Screencheck and Draft Public Services & Facilities Element
Approved: Date:
4.11 Economic Development Element
(OPTIONAL)
The Economic Development Element, an optional element under State
law, can give the City an opportunity to establish goals and policies for
the long-term fiscal health of Palm Springs. The Element will be shaped
by the information gathered from the economic trends, tourism, and
fiscal analysis as well as information received as part of the public
outreach festivals. The Economic Development Element will also
identify the key economic and fiscal policies for maximizing the Ciy's
retail opportunities, strengthening and expanding the industrial base and
setting economic policies, such as public infrastructure financing and
potential incentive programs to attract desirable development.
Products:
Screencheck and Draft Economic Development Element
4.12 Consolidated General Plan
Upon completion of the draft elements and receipt of a consolidated set
of comments from the City, The Planning Center will incorporate the
proposed changes into the Consolidated General Plan document that
will integrate all of the stand-alone draft elements into an integrated and
consistent Public Review Draft.
Product:
Final Draft Consolidated Plan
4-18
a P� �
5. Environmental Impact Report
he Program Environmental Impact Report (Program EIR)will be
prepared in conformance with the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA), CEQA guidelines, and City of Palm Springs
CEQA Procedures. Our approach to the EIR will be to utilize data from
the previous General Plan EIR wherever possible, and to update the
information as necessary.
As the lead consultant, The Planning Center will ensure that the
environmental review process and the EIR satisfy the statutes and
guidelines of CEQA, and the City of Palm Springs CEQA Procedures.
We will represent the Consultant team in public meetings and project
progress meetings as reQuested by the City.
5.1 Initial Study and Notice of Preparation
Brief, written responses will be prepared for all items included on the
City's standard Initial Study checklist. Each response will explain the
basis for the No Impact, Less Than Significant Impact, Less Than
Significant with Mitigation Incorporated, or Potentially Significant Impact
response and will clearly indicate why a particular issue would not result
in a significant impact and does not reQuire further evaluation, as well as
those issues that reQuire further analysis in an EIR in order to fully
determine the extent and significance of potential impacts and to identify
mitigation measures that could avoid or reduce such impacts to a less
than significant level. Given the City's decision to prepare an EIR for the
proposed project, it is assumed for the purpose of this proposal that
checklist responses will consist mainly of short statements that lead to
further analysis to be prepared within the EIR. A complete list of
references used to prepare the Initial Study will be provided. A summary
of the comments received at the public scoping meeting will be included
in the EIR as an attachment, to bring community input directly into this
official environmental document.
5-I
A Notice of Preparation (NOP)will be prepared, using the City's
standard form. A copy of the Initial Study will be attached to provide an
immediate explanation of the preliminary scope of issues to be included
in the EIR. After City approval of the NOP, The Planning Center will
copy and distribute the NOP to state and local agencies, surrounding
property owners and other special interest groups or individuals
identified by the City. A brief cover letter will be prepared to explain the
purpose and content of the NOP and to clearly identiy the time period,
contact person and address established for submitting responses.
5.2 Screencheck Draft EIR
5.2A General Information
Introduction. This section is intended as a convenience to the reader
who is not familiar with CEQA, EIRs or the environmental review
process. The purpose and standards of adequacy for an EIR will be
defined. A discussion the environmental review process for this project
will be presented. Characteristics of a Program EIR and the reasons for
preparing a Program EIR for this project will be described.
Summary. This section will consist of a concise summary of the
information presented in the main body of the EIR. This will include (a)
a brief project description; (b) a tabular summary of findings regarding
project and cumulative impacts, mitigation measures and any
unavoidable, significant impacts; (c) a summary of discretionary
approvals reQuired for the project; (d) a brief description of the
alternatives considered, noting which one was considered the
environmentally superior alternative; and (e) areas of controversy and
issues to be resolved.
Project Description. The project characteristics associated with the
proposed General Plan update will be described, along with a statement
of project objectives as determined by the City of Palm Springs. Specific
characteristics of the project will be defined, including proposed General
Plan changes and identification of specific opportunity areas within the
City. Required discretionary approvals and anticipated uses of the EIR
will be identified. Illustrations will include regional and site location
maps, conceptual land use, circulation, and infrastructure plans, and
proposed opportunity areas.
Environmental Setting. A general description of the regional and local
setting will be provided to establish the environmental and planning
context within which this project occurs. In addition to physical
characteristics that comprise the environmental setting, relevant regional
and local planning programs will be discussed to establish whether this
S-2
project is consistent or inconsistent with applicable planning policies an
programs. More detailed descriptions of existing conditions and
pertinent policies will be provided, where appropriate, as part of the '
discussions under each of the specific impact topics in the main body,of
the EIR, Existing land uses will be identified on a vieinity,map. Based on
information readily available from the City of Palm Springs and County of
Riverside, development trends occurring in this general area will be
described, and any other major development projects planned or
proposed in the vicinity will be highlighted. Planned, pending and
approved/not built projects throughout Palm Springs will be listed and
total development by land use category will be Quantified.
5.2.2 Discussion of Existing Conditions, Environmental Impacts
and Mitigation Measures
Each topical section of the document will: (a) describe existing
environmental conditions and pertinent regulatory policies and programs
that apply to this project, (b) define the criteria by which impacts will be
determined to be significant, (c) determine the environmental changes
that would result from the project, (d) evaluate the significance of those
changes with respect to the impact significance criteria, (e) define
mitigation measures to reduce or avoid all potentially significant adverse
impacts, (1) provide a conclusion as to whether significant impacts would
remain, even after successful implementation of recommended mitigation
measures and General Plan policies, and (g) discuss cumulative impacts
of the project.A discussion of cumulative impacts will be presented for
each of the impact topics. These discussions will be concise, Quantified
where appropriate, and will evaluate cumulative impacts within an
appropriate context for each issue.
The EIR will be clearly written and will avoid the use of technical jargon
so that the document is easily understood. If technical terms need to be
introduced for accuracy, they will be clearly defined. The analysis of
issues will be thorough,yet concise. Mitigation measures which are
practical and feasible will be formulated which relate directly to the
primary and secondary effects identified in the impact sections of the
document.
Since EIR scoping isyet to be completed, and this project is expected to
be of great interest to the community, it is assumed at this time that all
topics contained in the Initial Study Checklist will be included in the
Program EIR for the General Plan Update. The EIR will address the
following impact categories:
• Aesthetics • Land Use and Planning
• Agricultural Resources • Mineral Resources
5-3
• Air Quality • Noise
• Biological Resources • Population and Housing
• Cultural Resources • Public Services & Utilities
• Geology and Soils • Recreation
• Hazards & Hazardous Materials • Transportation/Circulation
• Hydrology and Water Quality
5.2.3 Alternatives to the Proposed Project
In compliance with Section 15126(d) of the State CEQA Guidelines, a
Qualitative discussion of various alternatives to the proposed project will
be presented. The Planning Center will consult with City staff for
assistance in defining the alternatives to be analyzed in the EIR.
Alternatives will be selected on the basis of their ability to (1) avoid or
reduce one or more of the project's significant impacts and (2) feasibly
attain most of the basic objectives of the project. The rationale for
selecting each alternative will be explained, along with the principal
features and environmental effects of each one. If any alternatives were
considered during the project scoping process but rejected, reasons for
rejecting those alternatives will be provided.
Analyses of three alternatives in addition to the "No-Project/Existing
General Plan"Alternative are included in the cost estimate for the EIR.
Potential alternatives scenarios will be more specifically defined as the
project progresses. Impacts associated with each alternative will be
compared to proposed project impacts, for each of the environmental
impact categories included in the preceding sections of the EIR. The
environmentally superior alternative will be identified; if it is the No-
Project/Existing General Plan Alternative, then one of the development
alternatives will be identified as environmentally superior to the others.
5.2A CEQA Mandated Sections
In addition to the topical issues discussed above, the following sections
will be prepared as mandated by CEQA:
► Environmental effects found not to be significant during the
Initial Study Scoping process
► Adverse environmental impacts which cannot be avoided if the
project is implemented. This section will summarize those adverse
project impacts that cannot be mitigated to a level of less than
significant.
► Any irreversible environmental changes which occur if the
proposed project is implemented. `
S-4
a� �vvGGG
► Growth Inducing Impacts. This discussion will'identify ways in "
which the project could foster population or employment'growth in
this area, either directly or indirectly.
5.3 Submittal and Review of Screencheck EIR
Fifteen (15) copies of a complete Screencheck FIR will be submitted for
City staff review and comment. Our proposed schedule and budget
assume that one, complete Screencheck document will be prepared for
review and comment, which is more efficient than submittal or selected
sections, on an incremental basis.
5.4 Draft EIR
It is presumed that all City comments concerning the Screencheck EIR
will be transmitted in writing to The Planning Center at the same time.
The Planning Center will meet with City staff to discuss and resolve any
major areas of concern or to clarify areas of misunderstanding, etc.
Follow-up with City departments or other agencies will be conducted as
necessary to respond to City staff comments. Fifty(50) copies of the
Draft FIR will be printed and distributed by The Planning Center to the
local, state and federal agencies, as well as other special interest groups
and individuals identified on a distribution list to be developed in
consultation with the City. If additional copies are necessary, they will
be billed on a time and materials basis.
The Planning Center will prepare the Notice of Completion (NOC) For
City approval and signature and will transmit the NOC with all copies of
the Draft EIR.
5.5 Response to Comments
Following receipt of all comments on the Draft EIR, written responses
will be prepared for each comment. A Response to Comments section
will be created for the Final EIR which will contain an introduction
describing the public review process concerning the Draft EIR, copies of
all comment letters received and minutes from public meetings where
oral comments were taken, plus written responses to all comments.
Responses will focus on comments which address the adeQuacy of the
Draft EIR. Other comments which do not address EIR adeQuacy will be
noted as such and no further response will be provided, unless deemed
necessary by the City. Responses will be prepared by TPC, with input
from our technical specialists, as needed.
The budget for the Final EIR is an estimate only, based on approximately
24 hours For preparation of Response to Comments. The estimated
S-5
budget assumes that no additional basic research will be reQuired to
respond to comments, that the comments will be directed at the
substance and technical adeQuacy of the EIR, and that the comments will
be compiled by the City and transmitted in writing to the consultant.
Modification to the scope of work, budget and time frame may be
necessary if comments received from agencies or the general public
reQuire substantially increasing the scope of impacts and issues that the
EIR has addressed. Responses to Comments by responsible agencies
will be provided to those agencies, as well as any other commentors
identified by the City, a minimum of 10 days prior to consideration of
the Final EIR by the City Council.
5.6 Mitigation and Monitoring Program
A Mitigation Monitoring Program (MMP) will be prepared, pursuant to
Section 21081.6 of the Public Resources Code. It will be presented in
standard City format, and will identify the significant impacts that would
result from the project, proposed mitigation measures for each impact,
the times at which the measures will need to be conducted, the entity
responsible for implementing the mitigation measure and the City
department or other agency responsible for monitoring the mitigation
effort and ensuring its success. A draft MMP can be prepared for
consideration by the Planning Commission, if desired, so that any
comments they may have concerning the MMP can be incorporated into
the Final EIR that is prepared for City Council certification.
5.7 Statement of Overriding Considerations
and Facts & Findings
Section 15091 of the CEQA Guidelines reQuires that no public agency
approve or carry out a project for which an EIR has been completed
which identifies one or more significant effects unless the public agency
prepares findings for each significant effect.As reQuested by the City,
The Planning Center will prepare findings and facts in support of findings
describing each of the significant impacts identified by the EIR and the
determination as to whether those impacts would be reduced to below a
level of significance by proposed mitigation measures. These facts and
findings will be incorporated into the resolution to be prepared by City
staff. Additionally, Section 15093 reQuires that when an agency
approves a project that will have significant adverse unavoidable
environmental effects, the agency must make a statement of its views on
the ultimate balancing of the merits of approving the project despite the
environmental damage. The Planning Center will prepare the Statement
5-6
' '
of Overriding Considerations for any unavoidable significant impacts that
may be identified by the Final FIR,
5.8 Final EIR
The Final FIR will be prepared in accordance with CEQA Section 15089
and will contain the final response to comments, the Mitigation
Monitoring Program, the Facts and Findings, and a Statement of
Overriding Considerations, if applicable to the project. The Final EIR
must reflect the lead agency's independent judgment and analysis and is
presented to the City Council for consideration and approval. If the
project is approved by the Lead Agency, a Notice of Determination
(NOD) is filed within five working days. The Planning Center will be
responsible for filing the NOD with the County Clerk, as well as the
Office of Planning and Research (OPR), if the project requires
discretionary approval from a state agency. The Planning Center will be
responsible for all standard filing fees assuming the project qualifies for a
certificate of fee exemption. If the project cannot be cleared through a
certificate of fee exemption, then this filing fee would be additional to
the cost estimate provided.
5.9 Workshops and Meetings
5.9A Public Scoping Meeting
The Planning Center will assist the City in organizing and conducting
one public scoping meeting to present the main characteristics of the
proposed General Plan Update and to solicit comments regarding the
scope and content of the environmental issues to be addressed in the
EIR. Pre-meeting assistance will include preparing public notices and
agendas For City staff review. At the meeting, we will be prepared to
discuss the environmental review process and to answer specific
Questions, as desired by the City. If requested, we will also prepare
informational items to be distributed at the meeting, such as:
► Flowchart defining the entire environmental review process,
highlighting opportunities for public input
► Selected reduced-sized copies of applicant's general plan
exhibits and textual summary of project characteristics;
► Questionnaire designed to obtain focused responses to identify
environmental concerns
It is recommended that the seeping meeting be held as soon as possible,
ideally so the results can be included in the Initial Study and Notice of
Preparation, discussed in the following task.
S-7
5.9.2 EIR Public Meetings
The Planning Center will coordinate closely with City staff to ensure the
EIR and associated documents delivered to the City are legally
defensible, an accurate product, and one that will serve as a useful tool
for decision-makers when considering the approval of the project. In an
effort to achieve this level of communication, The Planning Center's EIR
Project Manager will attend two Steering Committee meetings and four
public hearings during the course of the environmental review process,
in addition to the public scoping meeting outlined above. Tasks
included in this assistance would include preparing public notices and
agendas.Additional meetings or attendance by other members of the
Consultant team will be billed on a time and materials basis. Costs for
meeting attendance would be billed in accordance with the hourly rates
for the personnel involved.
S-8
6. Outreach, Workshops, and
Meetings
6.1 Project Team Coordination & Background
Collection
6.1.1 Project Initiation/Kick-off Meeting
The project Kick-Off Meeting is a critical event in shaping a successful
General Plan Update. The City Staff and consultant team must work in a
tight collaboration if the work envisioned is to be completed with the
desired Quality and within the time and budget allowed. The Kick-Off
Meeting will allow the consultant team and City staff to:
► introduce key participants;
► hear from City staff regarding insights they have gained from the
proposal review process;
► share expectations For the project;
► refine the Guidance Package, including the work program, scope
of work and schedule;
► identify the roles of anticipated key project stakeholders:
outside agencies, organizations and individuals;
► identify available resources;
► establish communication protocols for the project;
► identify potential project pitfalls and establish strategies to
address them; and
► define the strategy for addressing ongoing implementing projects
or programs that could potentially affect the project.
6-1
It is anticipated at this time that the meeting would include key members
of Planning Department staff(i.e., the Director and project manager), a
key member from the Public Works Department, and other staff
members as deemed appropriate by the City. Representatives from The
Planning Center and MIG will be in attendance at this meeting.
Product:
Project Initiation Meeting/Kick-off
6.1.2 Project Team Meetings
The Planning Center will attend up to twenty-seven (27) in person
project team meetings and MIG staff will attend up to four (4) meetings
at key junctures in the process to coordinate public participation
activities, development of key products and to review findings. MIG will
meet with The Planning Center and City Staff in person and by telephone
and will combine Team meetings with others when possible. MIG will
prepare a brief memo to summarize the major agreements made during
these discussions and provide the City with a data file.
Product:
Project Team Meetings
6.1.3 Key Stakeholder Interviews
One of the key ingredients to any successful project is the inclusion of
decision makers early on in the project and at key milestones throughout
its duration. For the City of Palm Springs General Plan Update, we
recommend individual interviews with each of the Council members and
the City Manager. The primary purpose of this task is to capitalize on
the interviewee's wealth of information, history, institutional knowledge,
and understanding of the issues, opportunities, and constraints facing
the community.
The Planning Center will conduct the interviews at the outset of the
Project to help define the issues, opportunities, and constraints for the
entire City, to begin to identify areas of Palm Springs reQuiring special
attention in the General Plan Update. We hope to use the interviews to
identify the stakeholder groups that should be represented in the public
outreach focus workshops, and to receive feedback regarding any issues
that reQuire more specialized direction in the new General Plan.
For purposes of this scope and budget, we have assumed a total of
twelve (12) interviews and that we would conduct the interviews over a
6-2
I'
period of three days. At the City's reQuest and direction, we can
conduct additional interviews on a time and materials basis.
MIG will coordinate with The Planning Center to,review the findings
from the stakeholder interviews. MIG will use the information gathered
from the stakeholder interviews to guide the development of the public
participation activities.
Product:
Key Stakeholder Interviews (up to 12)
6.1.4 Staff Bus Tour
MIG will participate with the Project team in a half-day staff bus tour.
In order to develop a focused and targeted public participation program,
it is important for the project team to understand the issues and
opportunities through the eyes of the City staff and to become familiar
with the city. Two members of The Planning Center's team and one
person from the MIG team will attend the bus tour.
Product:
Bus Tour
6.1.5 Outreach Coordination and Support
This task is intended to include preparation of materials for project team
and administrative coordination costs related to outreach and facilitation
services provided by MIG. The purpose of this task is to ensure a
consistent basis for MIG's participation in the project including:
management procedures, scheduling, and the timely delivery of products
and services. The MIG Project Manager will maintain regular contact
with the City's designated staff member and the prime Project Manager
at The Planning Center to monitor and review project progress and
results.
6.2 Community Outreach and Facilitation
To assist the City in continuing and expanding the community
educational and informational process, MIG proposes an outreach
strategy that builds on the work of the General Plan Steering Committee.
The objectives of this task are to:
Educate the Palm Springs community about the General Plan update
components, the relationships between those components and their
effect/impacts on the Palm Springs community.
6-3
► Provide a range of opportunities for community input and discussion
regarding the General Plan update issues and outcomes and gather
input from a diversity of community groups and individuals.
► Support local efforts toward neighborhood involvement in citywide
planning issues and decision-making.
► Address barriers to participation, such as language and culture that
may have made people reluctant to get involved in previous outreach
efforts.
► Keep the Palm Springs community up-to-date on current
developments, activities, and next steps in the General Plan update
process.
6.2A General Plan Steering Committee Meetings
The Planning Center will coordinate, facilitate, and attend a maximum of
ten (10) Steering Committee meetings as appropriate throughout the
General Plan Update process
MIG will participate in up to four(4) of the General Plan Steering
Committee meetings as needed at key junctions in the process. The
timing of these meetings will be determined in consultation with City
staff and the Project team. MIG will first meet with the Committee to
confirm their roles and review the Vision created by the Committee.
One of the meetings will provide the Steering Committee with the
opportunity to discuss areas of concern that are specific to the interests
they represent. MIG will work with the Committee during subseQuent
meetings to develop a public participation campaign to include the
broader public. The focus will be to test the Vision created by the
Committee. MIG will also work with the Committee to develop the
format and design the Community Festivals.
This task assumes two MIG staff. MIG will create a wall graphic as a
record of the meeting as well as a text summary. An electronic file of
the wall graphic will be produced.
Product:
. Attendance at Steering Committee Meetings
6.2.2 Community Festivals (2)
MIG will design, plan, and facilitate and graphically record two (2) 4-
hour community festivals attended by three (3) MIG staff and two (2)
staff members from The Planning Center. This will be designed to
gather broad input and buy-in from a community wide audience. The
6-4
�,
purpose of the Community Festivals will be to provide an opportunity for,'•
the Palm Springs community at large to participate,`in'a "hands-on",_way,
,
in the City's General Plan and to confirm the work ofthe General flan'
Steering committee. MIG will work with City staffand technical
consultants to review and reformat existing graphic,and plan description
materials so that it will be clear, informative, and engaging for the
average citizen.
A Community Festival format provides creative and energizing
opportunities that engage adults and children alike, and provide
substantive input for the Project team and City use in development of
the General Plan.
The process will give the Palm Springs community a forum to make more
informed decisions about their community's future and foster a stronger
sense of investment and responsibility for its success.
A brief summary of each meeting will be prepared by MIG for City use
as well as photo reproduction of the wall graphics. MIG will provide a
PDF file of the wall graphic for inclusion on the City's website. The City
will be responsible for securing meeting locations, logistics, and noticing.
Product:
Two (2) Community Festivals
6.2.3 "Vision to Plan to Reality"Workshop Training and Kits
To cost-effectively reach a large and diverse audience, includingyear-
round residents, businesses, tourists and seasonal residents, MIG will
provide tools and training to enable the General Plan Steering
Committee, City staff and community volunteers to solicit and document
public input into the process.
MIG will prepare a "Vision to Reality" Tool Kit to be used by
trained City and volunteer facilitators in conducting extended community
outreach in neighborhoods or with different community organizations.
The focus will be gathering of extended input to test and translate the
Vision directions developed by the Steering Committee into directions
for the elements of the General Plan. This task is intended to provide a
kit that can be used to conduct more extensive outreach to a range of
community groups, neighborhood groups and stakeholders. Using a set
of maps and guided Questions, the kits will be designed to collect
information on specific areas. While these areas will be determined after
discussion with staff and the Steering Committee, we anticipate that
these areas may include: Downtown/Economic Development; Parks and
Recreation; Circulation and Transportation; and Housing. The data
6-5 �jb
collected will be used to Frame the discussion and activities for the
Community Festival (task 6.2.2). The kit will also include comment
sheets and instructions for submitting the data. MIG will provide thirty-
five (35) kits and an electronic version for reproduction by City staff.
MIG will work with City staff and the Steering Committee to
develop strategies to engage residents who do not participate in
traditional outreach efforts. As an additional option, MIG can also
prepare these kits in Spanish.
Product:
Vision to Plan to Reality Tool IGts
6.3 Communication Tools and Collateral
Materials
6.3.1. Informational Website (OPTIONAL)
MIG will design and host a General Plan website and link it to the City of
Palm Springs existing site. The project site will have its own look and
feel. The site will have approximately five pages including the home
page, meeting announcements/calendar page, map page, summary
reports and wall graphics page. Topics will be modified once actual
content is provided.
Product:
Informational Website
Approved: Date:
6.3.2 Project Newsletters(2)(OPTIONAL)
MIG will design and produce up to two (2) newsletters to be issued at
key points throughout the project to 1) stimulate interest among
stakeholders and area residents and educate them on issues being
addressed in the technical studies; 2) advertise workshops and
encourage participation; 3) provide Quality, targeted information about
the planning process and issues; and 4) establish a visible presence For
the project in the community. These educational pieces will maintain a
consistent format and style in order to establish a public image and
identity. They may also include a mail-back form inviting feedback from
those not able to participate in the public meetings/community
workshops-
6-6 1
OUTREACH,6. O —AND :,
MEETINGS
MIG will be responsible for design, art direction and production of
camera-ready finals for printing.MIG will help select a printer and -
coordinate with the printer to produce the newsletters.
The City will be responsible for newsletter printing costs and newsletter
mailing.
Product
Two (2) project newsletters
Approved: Date:
6-7
a
City of Palm Springs
General Plan Update and Environmental Impact Report
PRELIMINARY BUDGET
Naval Plan Update and Slanby R.Hoffman Earth Consultants
Fnvlrenmsntallmpact Report Thz PhnnlnaCmfar Pavans Brinpkerholf Asxodatas MIG InWma0oml TEAMAl.'A�11Teak Domedlientional ws
ECONOMIC COMPONENT
Economic Trends Analyds $f.130 522,6W P
T.T.Trendsand Oppndunl0es $480 $9,6W F'.IlmPact Melyds $1020 $20,400 Emtwmk Cnaa and Polbles $aw $6,00C $6.3Subtotal $2330 $300 to $5aso $6W0 SO $u W EO ,
Bx],An0 C.r,fillons $1,]50 $35,W0 $36,750 SO
Tragic Poejaellons $1,800 $56,GOT $37,600 $0
ClrculnenPlan $750 $15,000 $15,750 Sa
Impact Annlyds and EIR Input $625 $12,500 $13,125 W
011ywtle TralSC Mc4el $5,000 $100,00C $0 310510
Subb l $4,225 9 ON S9k,5Lm $100, to $0 i to f0 $103,425 5105,
TECHNICAL
IES
Bas611ne Bludiesa
Geotm meel l 490 $9,]C $10,240
Hydmloginl Meyds $300 ,250 SEA
HaamoMyds $450 $9, $9,450
Telmlcal ApIeendl% $3390 •
o
1 50to
$ f � fi
Subtotal , ,
GENERAL PUN
Land ON Elomenl 526,a50 STO•
Cimula6tons lTuals $9,940 Sal
$0
CCn�rvallon,Open Space,Parks 6Rnrmnto $7,640 $14,400 $17.1% $7,640 $31,56
SaMryElemenl $6,515 S]W $7,265 $o
ArCeallly Elamnnl $],66c $0 $7,660
Nolen Element NEW $5,w $0
Ceemunily Cedor Eamonl $24,05) $24,OW $0
Downtown Urban Oeelpn 536,450 $B,fi $46.05
Heopeg Element Updalo $4,400 SO $4,411
Public Services and FxlObns1 Sfi,390 So $6,34
Ecorlmrllc OevelOPmentI $fi,000 � $S,OW
Cnnmlidaled Plan $14,600 to
Subtotal S$3,555 $75,250 f0 SO $01 toll SO f25,16 5150 10 $94.3051 Dlfl
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Inllull Study 512,500 So
Screencheck HR $42,500 :J$,
Omll EIR $10,00c RnaIEIR $b500 M.fi, Wol .ps,end Hoadn0s $1901 Suhbtai $90,500 SO 30 $0 SO SSO fJF$42�
PUBLIC OUTREACH,WORKSHOPS,and MEETINGS
Pm)wl Ceordlnallon A BackOmond C.Lmllon $720 $1A,400 $15,120 f0
Cmmpntly Onbaaell and Facllllahen 11,940 $30,]I5 $4C,]15 $0
Commonlcalt.Teals&Cell.%rd Malemis $2,108 $42,150 $0 $44,253
Mesbn9swilh 91a11Ream Mmle,,(27) $19,125 $11,W0 $2,A00 $32,025 $0
Stealing Committee Mealm9s(iC1 $15ia00 $15,000 $0
Public Walkpltapx(3) 55,000 $3,240 $8,240 $0
Ibedr,(2PCIPCC) $11,200 $11,200 $0
SuhLAul $52,715 $2,101 $11'ece $C $S.M $0 $53,175 $42.150 $123,10C $44,258
PROJECT a CanstllanlCmrdmafion m $9,225 $9,225 SO
Pr,d ftaOeenl $21.250 $2,400 $MO $24,i5D 5o
Suhblal $30.475 $01 S $2,400 50 $ Sw9 SO $33.375 54
RelmbernnUes(125%eflabor calls) $42,276 $1g3W $10W $10,000 $4700 $5$2]5 $451000
Subtotal 5/2,215 tu: SO $0 SLima f0 tNeCou S1,] $0 GRANOT $ i53,2T5 515,0
a . 1000 $100,000 $61,690 $6,000 • I 1 $645,590
Nola.AI costs In blue are assumed Ip be 5%of the Ass0caIN submnsulant WSC
12/21/2004 4.07 PM Budget Consobdaled.xls
City of Palm Springs
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE&ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT DRAFT PROJECT SCHEDULE
2005 2006
Jan Fab Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept
Phasa/Task
ECONOMICCOMPONENT -
EconomicTrends
Tourism Analysis ®4
-mm
Fiscal Analysis
CIRCULATION STUDIES -
Eosting Conciliar,
-777
Traffic Projections
Circulation Plan —
Impact Analysis O
TECHNICAL STUDIES
Oeval,Baseline Data ® v canes �re�a
Geotechnmal Analysis
Hydrology Analysls
Biology
Technical Appendix
GENERALPIAN
Land Use
Clrculatlon&Trolls Q�.-aa� umm
Conservation&Open Space
Safety omm
AUOuallty
We.
Community Design '
Housing(Update)
Public Facilities
Economic Development
Consolidated General Plan
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT -
InitlalSlutly
Screanchack EIR ®.®npar ...aililloass
Draft EIR essc. ['fie .
Response to Comments
Mitigation Monitoring Program
Facts&Findings -0
Overriding Consideratmns
Final EIR
Notice of Determination
OUREACH,WORKSHOPS MEERNGS
Steering CommlOee Meagngs(rrI p p �
Stag Meetings(zn 43 tt £3 £3 - E3 £3 L3 E3 £3 L3 L3 £3 E3 £3 £3 t3 E4 tt
A ) Interviews psi it
�•T( Public Workshops l.� C ��� mmai swpmo pee.u.ai
Planning Commission(zl
CQty Council(,u
O Draft Product •Final Product ®Product Review �NE
P NNING
December 20,20e4 0EME2
0
1 ASi;a
f
1
., k Y2fE$ ^-',b .. +A '" :cif ✓^'*",i.'v^ a}'
-
�G'Stak
`-wJ.4b,Mv` ._+ 9 lots
$a�'?`V;� >< a _aa e
" ""a•C ..f'� F ,,.?k .t .r"4'J"'c u�y�v+�^A#i..ti, $ t' a�.+... 'u
_ 1x^s 3 f - >A Y*2§'�R' yy '�r F '�';Nq' `'^t... a •F` � '»t!P" .%"A
.--A1 'fA:
-rVitt
It 4y jk�+ blr ;pY.ttUn'"; r'�yP+Ird� y VF .g;
t"' �$ V 7C' � K✓ (�V', `+ /I+ a�d 'g �h'+w �vovr' Pw C, � h
.}
µ r ' '1� 44 e,
°veV.ii
-0 w LLt� „Ywatm +' yrdr v H +*.
NX AM
* Asti: T
Gn_k' 9' f '✓P, J'i,. 3'✓� "Sqr .y5s'3b'2-.i x} srR
7a may 3aa� AM
}� Apt
-M1.av " TM+,M r s .. �. ,d&` , ,pro, xaas Mt _ yqyq '°G 5�'"` tc. ws•r $ sI got .;
r P40
} ~�� w �. r✓ �x��.' � �i� r �tr +fix a4d r� �'¢ ix-b�k�k '� ` i,�'��
p� ys
C T ,,7y, MR Y �1 �� RP. S" > e& )
" t"�."-` A ifs
x ,+,, p { ;
its " ,3t" q�f Ay z tc$r i
fib. /�
ow
bap e'-N
'�.,
ado a`w&'n P✓e .., �x i ,
5y 1 i
F �,r
f „
m& �