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U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 Seventh Street, SW Washington, DC 20410 www.hud.govespanol.hud.gov
Environmental Assessment Determinations and Compliance Findings for HUD-assisted Projects
24 CFR Part 58
Project Information
Project Name: Metro at 7th / Railyards Lot 46A
Responsible Entity: City of Sacramento
Grant Recipient (if different than Responsible Entity): Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment
Agency
Preparer: Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency
Certifying Officer Name and Title: Leighann Moffitt, Planning Director
Consultant (if applicable): Gail M. Ervin, PhD, NCE
Direct Comments to:
Stephanie Green, Environmental Coordinator
Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency
801 12th St., Sacramento, CA 95814
Email: [email protected] or Telephone: 916-440-1302
1
Project Location:
The proposed project site is public parking Lot 46A, located on a 2.35-acre lot at the northwest corner of
7th and F streets, City of Sacramento, in Sacramento County, California (APN: 002-0010-063-0000). The
USGS Quadrangle is Sacramento East, California. The project area is unplatted (USGS 2018).
Description of the Proposed Project [24 CFR 50.12 & 58.32; 40 CFR 1508.25]:
The proposed project will provide a total of 150 affordable multifamily housing units, 70 of which will be
No Place Like Home units specifically designated to serve people who experience homelessness, chronic
homelessness or who are at risk to chronic homelessness and who are in need of mental health service
with permanent supportive housing.
The project is located within the City of Sacramento’s Railyards Specific Plan (RSP) area, and the site
was analyzed for affordable housing at the time of RSP adoption. The RSP area is a transit-oriented,
mixed-use community for the Sacramento area that will feature a range of residential developments,
shopping, recreation, public transportation and a proposed new Major League Soccer (MLS) stadium.
The proposed project consists of one physical building, although financed by two separate ownership
structures. The project will construct one 4-story building providing a total of 150 new affordable
apartment units. The 150 units will be comprised of 64 studios, 49 one-bedrooms, and 37 two-bedroom
units--two of which will be exempt for management staff.
A total of 65 units comprised of forty-four (44) studios, eleven (11) one-bedroom, and ten (10) two-
bedroom units will be funded through the 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Program, with
HUD Project Based Vouchers. Inclusive of this unit mix, one two-bedroom unit will be exempt for
management staff. There will be a total of thirty (30) No Place Like Home units in which twenty-two (22)
are studios and eight (8) are 1-bedroom units. The 9% LIHTC program will fund a total of 85 units
comprised of twenty (20) studio, thirty-eight (38) one-bedroom, and twenty-seven (27) two-bedroom
units. Inclusive of this unit mix, one two-bedroom unit will be exempt for management staff. There will
be forty (40) No Place Like Home units in which twenty (20) are studios, sixteen (16) are 1-bedroom
units and four (4) are two-bedroom units.
A laundry room and lounge will be provided on each floor. Community indoor service spaces will include
a leasing office with break room for staff, community room, youth room, multiple private support break-
out rooms and larger conference rooms as needed. Community outdoor amenities include a courtyard,
community garden, pet area, picnic area and a bike storage lounge. Landscaping will be designed with
drought tolerant plants and trees. Trees will be planted throughout the parking lot to meet the City’s
shading requirements. The community entrance has been set in the back corner to develop a public plaza
and create a warm and welcoming gathering space.
The building design will feature a clean and urban approach to the aesthetics and fenestration along with
colorful framed accents in order to create interest and visual relief to the facades. The building materials
feature plaster with tile accents at the street level and a warm woodtone motif using horizontal siding to
accentuate the building entrance and top floors. The window treatments along the North 7th Street ground
level elevation provides a pedestrian scale and retail appearance which will provide visual connections for
the community’s social spaces and private offices. The massing and scale are designed to be consistent
with the adjacent Alkali Flat Historic District.
2
The project will include approximately 75 uncovered surface vehicle parking spaces and 90 bicycle
parking spaces. Bicycle parking will be comprised of 75 long-term spaces and 15 short-term parking
spaces. Long term parking will be available within the building on the ground floor, and short-term
bicycle parking will be provided on the exterior of the building. The parking lot and drive aisles will
include pedestrian crosswalks. The project site will have fencing along the property edge and will always
remain closed and gated. Residents and employees will have remote access to open the vehicle gate entry
located off F Street. Pedestrian access to the site is through a person-gate along the sidewalk on F Street
and the main community entry off 7th Street. The project entry will have a call box located outside the
manager’s office and resident common space. Here visitors can be buzzed in at the ground floor of the
building.
Offsite improvements will be minimal with the typical repairs to curb and gutters along 7th and F streets.
Statement of Purpose and Need for the Proposal [40 CFR 1508.9(b)]:
The purpose of this project is to provide affordable and permanent supportive multifamily housing within
the City of Sacramento. The project is working with the No Place Like Home Program to serve people
who experience homelessness, chronic homelessness or who are at risk of chronic homelessness and who
are in need of mental health services with permanent supportive housing. The 150-unit development will
provide a total of 70 No Place Like Home units in which 42 are studios, 24 are one-bedroom units and 4
are two-bedroom units. The project is needed to help meet the City’s projected “fair share” requirement to
provide housing for all sectors of the community, and is consistent with the City’s adopted goals, policies,
and actions designed to meet the housing needs for low-income families and individuals.
In addition, infill development is recognized by the Sacramento Area Council of Government’s Regional
Plan, as well as the State of California, as needed to reduce vehicle miles traveled and the regional impact
of development on air quality and climate change. The development is located within a Transit Priority
Area and will further the objectives of the City of Sacramento 2013-2021 Housing Element by integrating
new multifamily affordable housing within transportation corridors near transit hubs. The project is
consistent with the general use designation, and applicable policies specified in the RSP.
Existing Conditions and Trends [24 CFR 58.40(a)]:
The project site is a 2.35-acre parcel that contains parking Lot 46A on the eastern side of the site. The
interior of the site contains an asphalt paved parking lot with 114 uncovered standard parking spaces and
contains undeveloped land filled with weedy vegetation.
Driveway access to the property is located on the southern side of the property via F Street; however, only
the parking lot is accessible on the property. The rest of the property access has been blocked with a chain
link fence.
The site is bordered by the Sacramento Railyard and 7th Street. The Sacramento Railyards can be accessed
through the Sacramento Valley Station located approximately 0.4 miles southwest of the site and provides
transportation through Amtrak and buses. Across 7th Street are commercial offices and the Sacramento
County Sheriff’s Department. On the adjacent side of F Street to the south is an asphalt paved parking lot
that contains approximately 148 uncovered standard parking spaces. To the south and west of the site is
undeveloped land that is identified in the Railyards Specific Plan. Located south and east of the site are
Sacramento Regional Transit bus stops. The Alkali Flat Historic District is located across 7th Street to the
east.
3
Document Path: P:\Active Projects\SHRA - A487\Metro at 7th Railyards Lot 46A\GIS\AGP\Metro at 7th _ Ct.aprx
APPROVEDREVISEDDATEDRAWNJOB NUMBERSOURCE
FIGURE
ML9/24/20199/23/2019ctoy487.29.55ESRI USA Topo Maps
1Project Area Overview Map
Metro at 7th/Railyards Lot 46ACity of Sacramento, Sacramento County, California
0 1,000 2,000ft.
1:24,000
¯Legend
Project Area
California, Township and Rangeunplatted, 7.5 East Sacramento,CA USGS Quadrangle
0 10 20Miles
4
5
PROJECT NO.
RAILYARDS LOT 46 SACRAMENTO, CACOVER SHEET855-0020 05/15/19
A00
ARCHITECT:
LPAS ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN2484 NATOMAS PARK DRIVE, SUITE 100SACRAMENTO, CA 95833
CONTACT: CHRIS [email protected]
OWNER / DEVELOPER:
USA PROPERTIES FUND3200 DOUGLAS BLVD., SUITE 200ROSEVILLE, CA 95661
CONTACT: SEAN [email protected]
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT:
LPAS ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN2484 NATOMAS PARK DRIVE, SUITE 100SACRAMENTO, CA 95833
CONTACT: MICHAEL [email protected]
SHEET INDEXPROJECT TEAM
A00 COVER SHEET
A01 CORNER RENDERING
A02 7TH STREET RENDERING
A03 SITE PLAN
A04 BUILDING PLANS
A05 BUILDING PLANS
A06 UNIT PLANS
A07 PROJECT DATA
A08 SITE SECTION
CIVIL ENGINEER:
BAKER WILLIAMS ENGINEERING GROUP6020 RUTLAND DRIVE, SUITE 19CARMICHAEL, CA 95608-0515
CONTACT: KENT [email protected]
6
RAILYARDS LOT 46 │ Sacramento, CAPROJECT NO. 855-0020
A01May 15, 2019
Arch i t ec tu re + Des ign
RENDERINGNorth 7th Street Elevation
7
RAILYARDS LOT 46 │ Sacramento, CAPROJECT NO. 855-0020
A02May 15, 2019
Arch i t ec tu re + Des ign
RENDERINGEntry Plaza
8
The project site is approximately one-mile northeast from Old Sacramento and numerous commercial
retail services and restaurants. The area has excellent regional linkage via local freeways (Interstate 5) and
public transportation is provided by Sacramento Regional Transit and the Sacramento Valley Station
southwest of the site.
Funding Information
Grant Number HUD Program Funding Amount
PBV 20-year Rental Subsidy $ 20,113,029
Estimated Total HUD Funded Amount:
$ 20,113,029
Estimated Total Project Cost (HUD and non-HUD funds) [24 CFR 58.32(d)]: $58,190,815
Compliance with 24 CFR 50.4, 58.5, and 58.6 Laws and Authorities Record below the compliance or conformance determinations for each statute, executive order, or
regulation. Provide credible, traceable, and supportive source documentation for each authority. Where
applicable, complete the necessary reviews or consultations and obtain or note applicable permits of
approvals. Clearly note citations, dates/names/titles of contacts, and page references. Attach additional
documentation as appropriate.
Compliance Factors: Statutes,
Executive Orders, and
Regulations listed at 24 CFR
§58.5 and §58.6
Are formal
compliance
steps or
mitigation
required?
Compliance determinations
STATUTES, EXECUTIVE ORDERS, AND REGULATIONS LISTED AT 24 CFR 50.4 and 58.6
Airport Hazards
24 CFR Part 51 Subpart D
Yes No
The proposed project is approximately 5.0 miles
away from the closest civilian airport.
Exhibit 2-A
Coastal Barrier Resources
Coastal Barrier Resources Act, as
amended by the Coastal Barrier
Improvement Act of 1990 [16
USC 3501]
Yes No
The proposed project is located 101 miles
inland and is not within a coastal zone.
California does not contain protected coastal
barrier resources.
Exhibit 2-B
Flood Insurance
Flood Disaster Protection Act of
1973 and National Flood
Insurance Reform Act of 1994
[42 USC 4001-4128 and 42 USC
5154a]
Yes No
The project site is located within Zone X, an
area with Reduced Flood Risk due to levee and
Zone X Area of Minimal Flood Hazard, per
FEMA panel 06067C0180J, effective
06/16/2015. No flood insurance required.
Exhibit 2-C
9
STATUTES, EXECUTIVE ORDERS, AND REGULATIONS LISTED AT 24 CFR 50.4 & 58.5
Clean Air
Clean Air Act, as amended,
particularly section 176I & (d);
40 CFR Parts 6, 51, 93
Yes No
The project would be in an identified non-
attainment area for PM2.5 (moderate) and 8-hour
ozone (severe). However, emissions resulting
from project construction and operation fall
below the Sacramento Air Quality Management
District (SMAQMD) screening levels.
SMAQMD operational screening levels for low
rise apartment projects are less than 740 units
for ozone precursors, and 1,485 units for PM,
with construction BMPs incorporated; control
of fugitive dust is required by District Rule 403
and enforced by SMAQMD staff. The project is
150 units on a partially developed site that falls
well below the Sacramento Air Quality
Management District (SMAQMD) screening
levels for ROG and PM2.5 (<35 acres
construction, 740 units operational). Therefore,
emissions will be far below SMAQMD’s
thresholds of significance conformity (65
pounds per day ozone precursor = 12 tons per
year), and the de minimus levels for federal are
25 tons per year (severe), and below 15 tons per
year PM2.5 (SMAQMD) and the federal de
minimus threshold of 100 tons per year
(moderate). The proposed project is thus
exempt from federal general conformity
requirements.
Exhibit 2-D
Coastal Zone Management
Coastal Zone Management Act,
sections 307I & (d)
Yes No
The proposed project is located 101 miles
inland and is not within a coastal zone.
Exhibit 2-E
Contamination and Toxic
Substances
24 CFR Part 50.3(i) & 58.5(i)(2)
Yes No
The project is a new residential development on
a parcel that contains a parking lot and weedy
vegetation. Historically, the surrounding area
has served as part of the Southern Pacific
Railyard.
A Phase I Site Assessment identified that soils in the RSP boundary have been remediated
since 2007. Mitigation measures for soil vapor
intrusion are required by the Department of
Toxic Control (DTSC) for projects located
within the RSP area, due to the historical use of
the surrounding area. The assessment concluded
that the site does not present an unacceptable
risk to present and future human health or
safety or the environment.
10
A Railyards-wide Soil and Groundwater
Management Plan was approved by DTSC in
2015 in satisfaction with the Land Use
Covenant and is currently being implemented at
all Railyards projects.
The proposed project lies within the RSP
Boundary line. The City of Sacramento adopted
an SEIR for the RSP Update on November 10,
2016. Mitigation Measures from the SEIR will
be applied to the project.
Exhibit 2-F, Ref 12 Chapter 4.8
Endangered Species
Endangered Species Act of 1973,
particularly section 7; 50 CFR
Part 402
Yes No
The project site consists of urban land that has
been previously developed as a parking lot. The
parking lot is asphalt paved. Weedy vegetation
covers the rest of the proposed project site.
No federally listed species were observed
during the site visit on September 30, 2019. No
federally listed species were identified in the
biological assessment conducted for the RSP
Update SEIR. Habitat for special status species
within the project area is absent. Based on the
assessment conducted in the RSP SEIR and the
lack of potential habitat, there is no potential for
special status species to occur within the project
area.
Exhibit 2-G, Ref 12 Chapter 4.3
Explosive and Flammable
Hazards
24 CFR Part 51 Subpart C
Yes No
No above ground storage tanks were identified
in a 1-mile vicinity around the project area.
Exhibit 2-H
Farmlands Protection
Farmland Protection Policy Act
of 1981, particularly sections
1504(b) and 1541; 7 CFR Part
658
Yes No
The proposed project site was previously part of
the Southern Pacific Railyards and was never
used for farming. According to the California
Department of Conservation Division of Land
Resource Protection Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program, the site does not meet the
definition of prime or unique farmlands and is
not of statewide or local significance.
Exhibit 2-I
Floodplain Management
Executive Order 11988,
particularly section 2(a); 24 CFR
Part 55
Yes No
The project site is located within Zone X, an
area with Reduced Flood Risk due to levee and
Zone X Area of Minimal Flood Hazard, per
FEMA panel 06067C0180J, effective
06/16/2015. The project will have no effect on a
floodplain.
Exhibit 2-J Ref 12 Chapter 4.9
11
Historic Preservation
National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966, particularly sections
106 and 110; 36 CFR Part 800
Yes No
The project lies within the East End District of
the RSP area. The City of Sacramento adopted
an SEIR for the Railyards Specific Plan Update
on November 10, 2016. The Alkali Flat Historic
District was carefully considered throughout the
SEIR in all assessments and mitigation
measures to be imposed on SPR development.
The SEIR concluded that the proposed project
could cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of the Alkali Flat Historic District
if it would construct development adjacent to
the District’s west side that would be out of
context for the area. Mitigation measures
adopted in the SEIR were incorporated into the
design of the project to ensure no visual effects
on the District.
The Sacred Lands File (SLF) check was
positive, and the Native American Heritage
Commission specifically identified the UAIC
and Ione Band of Miwok Indians to be
contacted regarding the SFL. Native American
tribes were initially consulted by letter, with
follow-up emails, requesting information and
interest in consultation. Subsequent consultation
meetings were held with the Shingle Springs
Band of Miwok Indians. The log of meetings
and responses is provided as Exhibit 1-A.
A Programmatic Agreement (PA) between
SHPO and SHRA was fully executed on
4/20/20, which stipulates the measures SHRA
will carry out to ensure cultural, historic and
tribal resources are assessed and protected in
compliance with Section 106. The PA is
included in Exhibit 2-K.
Exhibit 2-K, Ref 12 Chapter 4.4
Noise Abatement and Control
Noise Control Act of 1972, as
amended by the Quiet
Communities Act of 1978; 24
CFR Part 51 Subpart B
Yes No
Noise levels in the project area are defined
primarily by traffic on 7th Street, light rail
activity, and rail traffic on Amtrak/ Union
Pacific Railroad lines to the north of the project
boundary. The average day/night sound levels
are 70-71 dBA, which falls into the Normally
Unacceptable range according to HUD Noise
Standards. A noise study concluded that an
exterior-to-interior noise level reduction of 30
dBA would be required to meet HUD
Standards. The application of specific design
elements to the units facing 7th Street will be
necessary to achieve this reduction, which are
outlined in the noise study. The developer must
12
incorporate the required mitigation measures
into the building plan.
Exhibit 2-L
Sole Source Aquifers
Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974,
as amended, particularly section
1424(c); 40 CFR Part 149
Yes No
The sole source aquifer (SSA) authority would
apply to the proposed project since it is new
construction; however, according to the
Environmental Protection Agency SSA
interactive online map, the project location does
not lie above a sole source aquifer.
Exhibit 2-M
Wetlands Protection
Executive Order 11990,
particularly sections 2 and 5
Yes No
According to the National Wetlands Inventory
interactive online map, the proposed project
location is not located on a wetland identified
by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. A
Riverine and a Freshwater Forested/Shrub
Wetland is located approximately 0.5 miles to
the west of the site. The site consists of
primarily paved surfaces and some weedy
vegetation, and no potential wetlands were
identified during field observation.
Exhibit 2-N
Wild and Scenic Rivers
Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of
1968, particularly section 7(b)
and (c)
Yes No
The American River, a Scenic Recreational
River, is approximately 1.1 mile north of the
project. The project would have no effect on
this river.
Exhibit 2-O
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Environmental Justice
Executive Order 12898
Yes No
The proposed project will provide affordable
multi-family housing. Previous use of the site
included a public parking lot. The project will
provide new affordable and market rate housing
within the RSP and in a mixed-use Transit
Priority Area.
Exhibit 2-P
Environmental Assessment Factors [24 CFR 58.40; Ref. 40 CFR 1508.8 &1508.27] Recorded
below is the qualitative and quantitative significance of the effects of the proposal on the character,
features and resources of the project area. Each factor has been evaluated and documented, as appropriate
and in proportion to its relevance to the proposed action. Verifiable source documentation has been
provided and described in support of each determination, as appropriate. Credible, traceable and
supportive source documentation for each authority has been provided. Where applicable, the necessary
reviews or consultations have been completed and applicable permits of approvals have been obtained or
noted. Citations, dates/names/titles of contacts, and page references are clear. Additional documentation is
attached, as appropriate. All conditions, attenuation or mitigation measures have been clearly
identified.
13
Impact Codes: Use an impact code from the following list to make the determination of impact for each
factor.
(1) Minor beneficial impact
(2) No impact anticipated
(3) Minor Adverse Impact – May require mitigation
(4) Significant or potentially significant impact requiring avoidance or modification which may require
an Environmental Impact Statement
Environmental
Assessment Factor
Impact
Code
Impact Evaluation
LAND DEVELOPMENT
Conformance with
Plans / Compatible
Land Use and Zoning
/ Scale and Urban
Design
1 The proposed project is zoned as RCMU-Residential/Commercial
Mixed Use. However, under the RSP the area is zoned as C-3 in order
to eliminate special zoning requirements. The project proposes to
redevelop a partially developed parcel currently used as a parking lot
into an affordable housing complex consistent with the City’s
requirements for the C-3 zone.
Refs 1, 11, 12 (Chpt 3)
Soil Suitability/
Slope/ Erosion/
Drainage/ Storm
Water Runoff
2
The topography is relatively flat, gently sloping to the south-southeast.
The project construction must comply with City’s erosion and
sediment control ordinance and storm water management and
discharge control ordinance per the City of Sacramento Zoning
Ordinance.
Refs 1, 4, 12 (Chpts 4.6 and 4.9)
Hazards and
Nuisances including
Site Safety and Noise
2 No above ground storage tanks were observed in a 1-mile vicinity of
the project site. A Railyards-wide Soil and Groundwater Management
Plan and soil vapor monitoring are required for all projects within the
RSP designation. The project will include site safety design and
construction will comply with mitigation measures to reduce noise.
Refs 1, 12 (Chpt 4.8), 13
Energy Consumption
2
Electric services will be provided by Sacramento Municipal Utility
District (SMUD). The project will meet all minimum construction
standards for California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC)
including sustainable building method and energy efficiency
requirements.
Refs 1, 12
Environmental
Assessment Factor
Impact
Code
Impact Evaluation
SOCIOECONOMIC
Employment and
Income Patterns
1 Temporary construction jobs will be generated during construction of
the project, and two permanent full-time manager positions will be
created on the site.
Ref 1
Demographic
Character Changes,
Displacement
2 The project will provide 150 apartment units for low-income families
and individuals, including 70 No Place Like Home units.
Ref 1
14
Environmental
Assessment Factor
Impact
Code
Impact Evaluation
COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Educational and
Cultural Facilities
2 The proposed project would construct 150 new residential units. The
Twin Rivers Unified School District serves the project site; the site is
served by North Avenue Elementary, Sutter Middle School, and Yolo
High School. The schools are not impacted in this area. The site is
near transit access to educational and cultural facilities throughout
the county.
Ref 12 (Chpt 4.11)
Commercial
Facilities
1 There is a full range of shopping, restaurants and other commercial
facilities within walking distance and bus routes to this site.
Downtown Sacramento is located approximately 1 mile southwest of
the project site. Future tenants would provide support to local
businesses in the area.
Ref 1
Health Care and
Social Services
2 WellSpace Center Health is located 0.3 miles south and is a full-
service medical center. Sutter Medical Center is located 2.1 east and
is also a full-service medical center.
Ref 1
Solid Waste Disposal
/ Recycling
2 The project would generate demolition and construction waste and
removal of debris, and the residential uses would generate mixed
waste. Construction waste would be disposed of at the Sacramento
County Landfill facility on Kiefer Road, which is the primary
municipal solid waste disposal facility in Sacramento County.
Residential waste will be transferred by franchised haulers authorized
by the Sacramento Solid Waste Authority to collect commercial
garbage and commingled recycling within the City.
Refs 3, 6, 12 (Chpt 4.13.3)
Wastewater /
Sanitary Sewers
2 Wastewater is conveyed through the City of Sacramento Department
of Utilities sewer pipelines to the Sacramento Regional Wastewater
Treatment Plant (SRWTP). The RSP area would increase wastewater
requiring treatment by 3.65 mgd and would not contribute additional
flows to the sewer system during high capacity periods. The SRWTP
currently has an excess capacity of 76 mgd, which would be available
for a substantial portion of growth in the region. The SRWTP 2020
Master Plan identifies improvements needed to expand to 207 mgd,
in order to accommodate growth in its service area through 2020
based on Sacramento Area Council of Governments projections.
Refs 1, 10, 12 (Chpt 4.13.2)
Water Supply
2 Water will be provided to the project site by the City of Sacramento
Department of Utilities. The City has sufficient water rights and
supply to meet projects within the Railyards Specific Plan.
Refs 1, 12 (Chpt 4.13.1)
15
Public Safety -
Police, Fire and
Emergency Medical
2 Police:
The Sacramento Police Department provides police protection
services to the City. The Sheriff’s Department is located
approximately 0.3 miles southeast of the project site on H Street. The
proposed project will be built to current standards and would not add
significantly to service already established.
Fire:
Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department. The two stations closest
to the project site are Fire Station 2, located approximately 0.7 miles
southeast, and Fire Department Station 1, located approximately 1.5
miles south from the project site. The proposed project will be built
to current fire standards and would not add significantly to service
already established.
http://www.cityofsacramento.org/Fire/About/Station-Information
Emergency Medical Services:
Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. All SFD Engine and Truck
Companies are utilized as EMS first responders and staffed with
Firefighter-EMTs and/or Firefighter-Paramedics. The proposed
project is consistent with the General Plan would not add
significantly to service already established and anticipated service
levels.
http://www.cityofsacramento.org/Fire/Operations/Emergency-
Medical-Services
Refs 1, 3, 12 (Chpt 4.11)
Parks, Open Space
and Recreation
2 Zapata Park is located approximately 0.2 miles east of the project
site, and accessible by public transit. J. Neely Johnson Park is 0.3
miles east and Matsui Waterfront park is 1.2 miles northwest from
the site. Although the project could increase demand for services, the
increase is minor and can be accommodated at the existing parks.
Approximately 3,300-sf of community room will be provided on site
along with other recreational amenities. Landscaped grounds include
a courtyard, community garden, pet area, and bike storage.
Ref 1, 12 (Chpt 4.11.4)
Transportation and
Accessibility
1 Sacramento Regional Transit System (RT) provides services to the
project area via multiple bus lines. The Sacramento Valley Amtrak
Station is located approximately 0.4 miles southwest from the site.
The site is in a Transit Priority Area with extensive service.
Ref 12 (Chpt 4.12)
Environmental
Assessment Factor
Impact
Code
Impact Evaluation
NATURAL FEATURES
Unique Natural
Features,
Water Resources
2 The site contains a parking lot and weedy vegetation. No unique
natural or water resources features are on the project site.
Refs 1, 12 (Chpts 4.1, 4.3, 4.9)
Vegetation, Wildlife
2 The site is a previously partially developed urban site with a parking
lot. No unique vegetation or wildlife features are on the project site.
A biological survey was conducted within the RSP area. The survey
16
identified and located a Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle bush
south of this site between 6th and 7th Street. The project site would
not have an impact on the valley elderberry longhorn beetle habitat
located south of the site.
Refs 1, 12 (Chpt 4.3)
Other Factors
Climate Change
1 The City of Sacramento is preparing for climate change by planting
heat resistant tree species to help keep the City cool; improving the
efficiency of how citizens use water and energy; preserving and
expanding water sources; protecting the public from increased health
risks and safety hazards; promoting a climate-resilient economy; and
planning for potential impacts to public infrastructure. The City also
encourages increased densities within Transit Priority Areas such as
the proposed project, which reduces vehicle miles traveled. The
project is consistent with regional goals to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions. The proposed project plans to plant trees throughout the
parking lot in order to meet the City’s shading requirement.
Refs 1, 3, 12 (Chpts 4.5, 4.7)
Additional Studies Performed: 1. HUD Noise Assessment Metro at 7th / Railyards Lot 46A. Prepared October 16, 2019 by Saxelby
Acoustics for NCE*
Field Inspection (Date and completed by):
1. Field Observation conducted by Catrina Toy, NCE, September 30, 2019.
List of Sources, Agencies and Persons Consulted [40 CFR 1508.9(b)]:
1. Unless otherwise noted, assessments based upon expertise and experience of Gail M. Ervin,
Ph.D., NCE.
2. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). “Wild and Scenic Rivers System.” Last
modified: June 21, 2016. Accessible from:
http://www.dot.ca.gov/ser/vol1/sec3/special/ch19wsrivers/chap19.htm#CWSRS. Accessed
10/4/2019.
3. City of Sacramento. 2015. “2035 General Plan and Background Report.” Last modified March 3,
2015. Accessible from: http://www.cityofsacramento.org/Community-
Development/Resources/Online-Library/2035--General-Plan. Accessed 10/3/2019.
4. Stantec. 2019. “Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Railyards Affordable Housing Lot 46A
Sacramento, California Portion of APN 002-0010-063.” *
5. Twin Rivers School District. 2019. “My School Locator.” Accessible from:
http://locator.decisioninsite.com/?StudyID=206231. Accessed on 10/03/2019.
6. City of Sacramento Recycling and Solid Waste. 2013. “Commercial and Construction Services.”
Last modified: 2018. Accessible from: http://www.cityofsacramento.org/Public-
Works/RSW/Collection-Services/Commercial-Services. Accessed on 10/4//2019.
7. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2019. “Sole Source Aquifers Interactive
Mapping Tool.” Last modified: May 30,2019. Accessible from:
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https://epa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=9ebb047ba3ec41ada1877155fe31
356b. Accessed 10/02/2019.
8. Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. 2017. “Guide to Air Quality
Assessment in Sacramento County.” Accessible from:
http://www.airquality.org/Businesses/CEQA-Land-Use-Planning. Accessed 10/11/2019.
9. Sacramento Regional Transit. 2018. “Systems Map.” Accessible from:
http://www.sacrt.com/systemmap/A1.stm. Accessed on 10/04/2019.
10. Sacramento Regional County Sanitation District. “Sacramento Regional Wastewater Treatment
Plant.” Accessible from: https://www.regionalsan.com/profile/sacramento-regional-wastewater-
treatment-plant. Accessed on 10/04/2019.
11. Sacramento City Code. 2019. “Current through Ordinance 2019-0001 and Title 17 Planning and
Development Code.” Accessible from:
http://www.qcode.us/codes/sacramento/view.php?topic=17. Accessed on: 10/10/2019.
12. City of Sacramento. 2016. “Sacramento Railyards Specific Plan Update Vol 1 and 2, KP Medical
Center, MLS Stadium, & Stormwater Outfall Subsequent Environmental Impact Report.”
Certified November 10, 2016. Accessible from: http://www.cityofsacramento.org/-
/media/Corporate/Files/CDD/Planning/Environmental-Impact-Reports/Railyards-Final-
SEIR_October-2016.pdf
13. HUD Noise Assessment Metro at 7th / Railyards Lot 46A. Prepared October 16, 2019 by Saxelby
Acoustics for NCE. *
*Full reports are on file at the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, 801 12th Street,
Sacramento, CA 95814.
Agencies and Persons Consulted
1. Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians: Rhonda Morningstar Pope, Chairperson
2. Colfax-Todds Valley Consolidated Tribe: Pamela Cubbler. Treasurer
3. Colfax-Todds Valley Consolidated Tribe: Clyde Prout, Chairman
4. Ione Band of Miwok Indians: Sara Dutschke Setchwaelo, Chairperson
5. Nashville Enterprise Miwok-Maidu-Nishinam Tribe: Cosme A. Valdez, Chairperson
6. Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians: Regina Cuellar, Chairperson
7. Tsi Akim Maidu: Grayson Coney, Cultural Director
8. Tsi Akim Maidu: Don Ryberg, Chairperson
9. United Auburn Indian Community of the Auburn Rancheria: Gene Whitehouse, Chairperson
10. Wilton Rancheria: Raymond Hitchcock, Chairperson
List of Permits Obtained:
A building permit issued by the City of Sacramento will be required.
Public Outreach [24 CFR 50.23 & 58.43]:
The project is within the City of Sacramento’s RSP area, and the site was considered for affordable
housing in all public outreach conducted during the adoption of the RSP. The City of Sacramento released
a Notice of Preparation for the SEIR and received 12 written comments during the public comment
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period, June 26, 2015 through July 30, 2015. The written comments pertaining to the RSP and the scope
of the SEIR are addressed within the SEIR. The RSP’s SEIR was published as a Draft SEIR and was
subject to review and comment by the public, as well as responsible agencies and other interested
jurisdictions, agencies, and organizations from June 10, 2016 through July 27, 2016. The public was able
to comment on the EIR by submitting written comments during the public review period. The City
included the written comments received and responses to these concerns in the Final SEIR that was
published by the City of Sacramento on November 10th, 2016.
The environmental documents described above are available online at
http://www.cityofsacramento.org/Community-Development/Planning/Environmental/Impact-
Reports, and may be viewed in printed form at the City’s Community Development Department,
300 Richards Boulevard, Third Floor, Sacramento, CA 95811. Hearings on the RSP and projects within
the plan occurred numerous times through the Draft SEIR process.
A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and a Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds (RROF)
will be published in a paper of general circulation 15 days before the RROF will be submitted to HUD to
allow public comment on the project. The public will have 15 days to provide comment to HUD for
anyone who wishes to challenge the bases for the FONSI determination.
Cumulative Impact Analysis [24 CFR 58.32]:
The proposed project is affordable multi-family residential infill development on a parcel within the RSP.
Currently the parcel is being partially used as Lot 46A, a public parking lot. The project would construct
150 apartment units for low-income families and for the chronic homeless and their families. The project
is consistent with local zoning and general plan policies. Minor construction air emissions will be
temporary and below SMAQMD screening criteria, which SMAQMD has determined results in a less
than cumulatively significant effect. The project will have 75 uncovered parking spaces at the site and is
within walking distance to commercial services in the area as well as train and bus services. Operational
impacts related to traffic and air quality are anticipated to be cumulatively less than significant. There are
no sensitive habitats on the site thus the project will not result in a cumulative loss of biological resources.
Noise levels for the project area exceed federal standards but effects on new residents will be mitigated by
incorporating specific design elements to mitigate noise levels on units facing 7th Street. The project does
not displace existing uses and provides affordable housing near transit and services. Therefore, the
proposed project will result in no cumulatively significant effects on the human or natural environment.
Alternatives [24 CFR 58.40(e); 40 CFR 1508.9]:
The proposed project will be constructed on designated vacant infill land near downtown Sacramento.
The site provides excellent access to services and regional transit. The project falls within the Railyards
Specific Plan that was approved by the City in 2016.
Site identification for affordable housing has proven to be a major obstacle in providing affordable
housing units. Sites zoned appropriately and at reasonable cost are extremely limited within the City of
Sacramento. Furthermore, sites that do not meet cost and zoning criteria are generally eliminated as
alternatives. This project was chosen from several potential properties considered based upon feasibility,
location, and affordability. Physical and social constraints were considered in identifying and rejecting
alternatives as part of the Project Based Voucher criteria.
The site is already designated by the RSP and zoned appropriately for high density urban housing. There
are no adverse effects on the human or physical environment associated with the preferred alternative, and
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benefits to the human environment by redeveloping a vacant parcel near the downtown core, providing
transit-oriented development, and increasing the supply of affordable housing units.
No Action Alternative [24 CFR 58.40(e)]:
The No Action Alternative would leave the site as a parking lot with no funding for affordable housing.
There are no benefits to the physical or human environment by taking no federal action for this project.
Physical impacts to the environment occur in growing areas whether units are subsidized with federal
funds or built at market rates.
The City has determined the project is consistent with all City land use plans, policies, and
regulations for the project site. Not building on this site could result in more housing constructed
further out in agricultural areas to meet the demand for affordable housing, contributing to urban sprawl,
regional traffic congestion and regional air quality problems.
Summary of Findings and Conclusions:
The environmental assessment has determined that the construction of the Metro at 7th/ Railyards Lot 46A
project would have no adverse effect on the human or physical environment. The project is a low-income,
multi-family residential development being constructed on a parcel within the RSP. The project will
consist of 150 multi-family affordable housing units with some designated for the homeless and their
families. The activities are consistent with adopted plans and policies, and the new building will connect
to existing municipal services that the City has determined are adequate to serve multi-family residential
infill development. The surrounding vicinity has transit access to a full range of commercial, medical,
emergency, social and recreational services to serve the future residents. The State Department of Toxic
Substance Control has determined that there are no hazards located near the project site and ambient noise
levels will be mitigated during construction. A Programmatic Agreement between SHPO and SHRA has
been signed to address unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources during ground moving activities.
Construction will follow a soil and groundwater management plan and mitigation measures to monitor
soil vapor intrusion in order to protect human health and the environment. The project will therefore have
a beneficial effect on the quality of the human environment and no adverse effect on the natural
environment.
Mitigation Measures and Conditions [40 CFR 1505.2(c)] Summarize below all mitigation measures adopted by the Responsible Entity to reduce, avoid, or
eliminate adverse environmental impacts and to avoid non-compliance or non-conformance with the
above-listed authorities and factors. These measures/conditions must be incorporated into project
contracts, development agreements, and other relevant documents. The staff responsible for implementing
and monitoring mitigation measures should be clearly identified in the mitigation plan.
Law, Authority, or Factor Mitigation Measure
Noise Abatement and Control
Noise Control Act of 1972, as
amended by the Quiet Communities
Act of 1978; 24 CFR Part 51 Subpart
B
The project site is predicted to be exposed to future exterior
noise levels within the normally unacceptable 65-75 dBA DNL
range for HUD projects. A noise assessment concluded that in
order to reduce interior noise levels to below federal
thresholds, certain design elements should be incorporated into
the project. The specific design elements only apply to the first
row of units along 7th Street. The following noise control
measures shall be incorporated into designs to the satisfaction
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of SHRA before construction begins on first row of units along
the 7th Street:
• Exterior building facades shall include use of exterior
stucco with RC channels and 5/8” interior gypsum
board or 5/8” interior gypsum on a staggered stud wall
assembly;
• STC 35 rated windows shall be used;
• Mechanical ventilation penetrations for exhaust fans
not face toward 7th Street. Where feasible, these vents
should be routed towards the opposite side of the
building to minimize sound intrusion to sensitive areas
of the buildings;
• Where vents must face toward 7th Street, it is
recommended that the duct work be increased in length
and make as many “S” turns as feasible prior to exiting
the dwelling. This separates the openings between the
noise source and the living space with a long circuitous
route. Each time the sound turns a corner, it is reduced
slightly. Flexible duct work is preferred ducting for
this noise mitigation. Where the vent exits the
building, a spring‐loaded flap with a gasket should be
installed to reduce sound entering the duct work when
the vent is not in use;
• Mechanical ventilation shall be provided to allow
occupants to keep doors and windows closed for
acoustic isolation;
• In lieu of these measures, an interior noise control
report may be prepared by a qualified acoustic
engineer demonstrating that the proposed building
construction would achieve the HUD interior noise
reduction requirement of 30 dBA.
Mitigation Measure 4.8-1 (RSPU,
West Jibboom only, SO)
Construction of the proposed projects
could result in the exposure of people
to health risk associated with
contaminated soils and debris.
If unidentified or suspected contaminated soil or groundwater
evidenced by stained soil, noxious odors, or other factors, is
encountered during site preparation or construction activities
work shall stop in the area of potential contamination, and the
type and extent of contamination shall be identified by
qualified professional. The qualified professional shall prepare
a report that includes, but is not limited to, activities performed
for the assessment, summary of anticipated contaminants and
contaminant concentrations, and recommendations for
appropriate handling and disposal. Site preparation or
construction activities shall not recommence within the
contaminated areas until remediation is complete and a “no
further action” letter is obtained from the appropriate
regulatory agency.
Mitigation Measure 4.8-7 (RSPU,
KPMC, MLS, SO) Operation of the
i. In areas where the groundwater contamination has
the potential to reach water, sewer or storm
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proposed projects could result in the
exposure of people to health risks
associated with contaminated soils
and groundwater.
drainage pipelines due to fluctuations in the elevation
of the groundwater table, or where volatile
contaminants in soil vapor could enter porous utility
lines, measures such as concrete trenches, membrane
barriers and venting will be used to prevent infiltration
in accordance with DTSC requirements.
ii. Routine monitoring of the above areas shall
be performed by the landowners and/or the City,
reported to DTSC and Regional Water Board, and
corrective actions implemented if the results indicate
adverse change in water quality. For stormwater, the
monitoring may be conducted through the City’s MSR
4 program.
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Determination:
Finding of No Significant Impact [24 CFR 58.40(g)(1); 40 CFR 1508.27]
The project will not result in a significant impact on the quality of the human environment.
Finding of Significant Impact [24 CFR 58.40(g)(2); 40 CFR 1508.27]
The project may significantly affect the quality of the human environment.
Preparer Signature: __________________________________________Date: 6/20/19
Name/Title/Organization: Gail M. Ervin, PhD, Principal, NCE
Certifying Officer Signature: ___________________________________Date: ________
Name/Title: ______________________________________________________________
This original, signed document and related supporting material must be retained on file by the
Responsible Entity in an Environmental Review Record (ERR) for the activity/project (ref: 24
CFR Part 58.38) and in accordance with recordkeeping requirements for the HUD program(s).
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