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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 01 Joint Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance to Amend Eugene-Springfield Metro Plan Text AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY Meeting Date: June 24, 2008 Meeting Type: Joint Elected Officials Department: Development Services Staff Contact: Gregory Mott~lln S P R I N G FIE L D Staff Phone No: 726-3774 ~ C I T Y C 0 UN elL Estimated Time: 60 Minutes ITEM TITLE: JOINT PUBLIC HEARING AND FIRST READING OF THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE: ACTION REQUESTED: ISSUE STATEMENT: ATTACHMENTS: DISCUSSION/ FINANCIAL IMPACT: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE EUGENE-SPRINGFIELD METROPOLITAN AREA GENERAL PLAN (METRO PLAN) TEXT, CHAPTER III, SECTION D, POLICY D.ll; ADOPTING AN EXCEPTION TO STATEWIDE PLANNING GOAL l5 WILLAMETTE RIVER GREENWAY; ADOPTING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Conduct a first reading and joint public hearing with the Eugene City Council and Lane County Board of Commissioners on the proposed Metro Plan amendment and Goal exception to allow the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to remove the decommissioned 1-5 Bridge and temporary detour bridges, construct the permanent replacement bridge and place fill within the Willamette River Greenway Setback area.. The second reading and decision on this ordinance.is scheduled (tentatively) for July 2l, 2008. ODOT must construct a permanent replacement bridge over the Willamette River at 1-5 because the temporary detour bridge erected in 2005 was not intended, designed or constructed as a permanent facility. Most of the activity associated with this project will require placement of fill in the Greenway Setback area; such an action requires an exception to Goal l5 and a Metro Plan amendment. A. Springfield Ordinance with Modified Metro Plan Text B. Vicinity Maps C. Eugene City Council Agenda Item Summary (AIS) * The 1-5 Willamette River Bridge project is located entirely within the boundaries of the Metro Plan. The project includes permanent replacement bridges over the Willamette River and Canoe Canal (Patterson Slough), construction and later removal of one or more other temporary bridges, demolition of the original temporary detour Willamette River and Canoe Canal bridges, construction of replacement bridges, reconstruction of the roadway approaches to the bridges, rehabilitation of the project area, and completion of any required mitig~tion. The permanent replacement bridge will be supported by poured-in-place concrete columns and compacted fill that will be located within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Area. By Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR), only water- dependent and water-related uses are permitted within the Greenway setback area; since this bridge does not meet the defmition of water dependent or water related uses found in the Statewide Goals, an exception is required before the project can be' authorized. The Rule also requires the goal exception to be included within the comprehensive plan, hence a Metro Plan amendment is also required to allow placement of the fill within the Willamette River Greenway for the project. The three planning commissions conducted a public hearing on this application and forwarded recommendations of approval to their respective elected officials on June 3,2008. The findings for those recommendations appear as Attachment 2 of this memo. (* Please note: The attachments listed on the Eugene City Council. :AIS]'are not included with this packet. These attachments (659 pages) are avaiiable to view in their entirety on a disc at the City of Springfield.) ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE EUGENE-SPRINGFIELD METROPOLITAN AREA GENERAL PLAN (METRO PLAN) TEXT, CHAPTER III, SECTION D, POLICY D.ll; ADOPTING AN EXCEPTION TO STATEWIDE PLANNING GOAL 15 WILLAMETTE RIVER GREENWAY; ADOPTING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The City Council of the City of Springfield finds that: WHEREAS, Chapter IV of the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area General Plan (Metro Plan) sets forth procedures for amendment of the Metro Plan, which are implemented for Springfield by Chapter 5, Section 5.14-100 through 5.14-155 of the Springfield Development Code, for Lane County by Lane Code 12.225(2)(a & b), and for Eugene by Eugene Code Section 9.7730(3); and WHoEREAS, on February 1,2008 the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) submitted an application to the City of Eugene for a Metro Plan text amendment, an Exception to Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway for the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Proj ect; and WHEREAS, a joint public hearing of the planning commissions of theo City of Springfield, the City of Eugene and Lane County was held on April 29, 2008 to accept testimony on this matter; and on June 3, 2008 the three Planning Commissions held a joint public meeting to consider the testimony and evidence entered into the record of this matter. Following the June 3, 2008 meeting the Springfield Planning Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval to the Springfield City Council on the request for an exception to statewide Goal 15 and amendment of Chapter III, Section D, Policy D.ll of the Metro Plan; and WHEREAS, the Springfield City Council conducted a joint public hearing on this amendment on June 24,2008 with the Eugene City Council and Lane County Board of Commissioners, and is now ready to take action based upon the above recommendations and evidence and testimony already in the record as well as the evidence and testimony presented at the joint elected officials public hearing; and WHEREAS, substantial evidence exists within the record demonstrating that the proposal meets the requirements of the Metro Plan, the Springfield Development Code, and applicable state and local law as described in findings attached as Exhibit A, and which are adopted in support of this Ordinance. ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 1 NOW, THEREFORE, THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SPRINGFIELD DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1: The Metro Plan Policy D.II, Chapter III, Section D. is hereby amended to read and provide as follows: D.II The taking of an exception shall be required if a non-water-dependent transportation facility requires placing of fill within the Willamette River Greenway setback. "An exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approved for Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for purposes of removing and replacing the decommissioned 1-5 Bridge, the temporary detour bridge and the Canoe Canal bridge with two new parallel bridges (one southbound and one northbound) within the 1-5 right-of-way crossing the Willamette River and Canoe Canal and within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line. The exception authorizes construction and later removal of one or more temporary work bridges; demolition of the decommissioned 1-5 Willamette River Bridge, Canoe Canal Bridge, and detour bridges; construction of the two replacement bridges; reconstruction of the ,roadway approaches to the bridges (1-5 and ramps); rehabilitation of the project area; and completion of any required mitigation of project impacts. In association with these tasks, the exception further authorizes within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line the addition and removal of fill within ODOT right-of-way and the removal of fill within a temporary slope easement east ofl-5. This exception satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(6) Willamette Greenway and the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2, Part II (c) for a 'reasons' exception, and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to the Metro Plan text, Policy D.11, Chapter III, Section D." Section 2: The Metro Plan is hereby amended to include the findings of fact and conclusions of law supporting a "reasons" exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 and demonstrating compliance with OAR 660-004-0015, 660-004-0020 and 660-004-0022(6) attached hereto as Exhibit A, and incorporated herein by this reference. Section 3: The findings set forth in attached Exhibit A are adopted as findings in. support of this Ordinance. Section 4: If any section, subsection, sentence,'clause, phrase or portion of the Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions thereof. ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 2 Section 5: Notwithstanding the effective date of ordinances as provided by Section 2.110 of the Springfield Municipal Code 1997, this Ordinance shall become effective 30 days from the date of passage by the City Council and approval by the. Mayor, or upon the date of its acknowledgement as provided by ORS 197.625, whichever date is later, provided that by that date the Eugene City Council and the Lane County Board of Commissioners have adopted ordinances containing identical provisions to those described in Sections 1 and 2 of this Ordinance. Adopted by the Common Council of the City of Springfield this _ day of July, 2008 by a vote of _ in favor and _ against ' Approved by the Mayor of the City of Springfield this _ day of July, 2008. Mayor . ATTEST: City Recorder E,.,."... '..'\0" I"~ I) II. 0- !" [.. 0' ~nE'[)' V}. ~ 'I}! '{ '" <,l)J .~ !! R ,,'. ,,:. ;:} ...' ..U1 ~'J f' n l! ~ !_ ~ ~ ll., tl.J' ..~;. .-. il u u'i l:I . AS TO fORI\; /lLd ~~ DATE: ~.LL8/eJ'" OFFICE OF CITY ATTORNEY ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 3 \ i . ! -- Exhibit A ~; Findings 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project (Eugene filesMA 07-3, RA 08-1; Springfield file LRP2007-00010; Lane County file P A08-5230) Metro Plan Text Amendment & Goal Exception (MA 07-3. LRP2007-00010. P A08-5230) I l. The proposed amendment includes an exception to Statewide Planning Goal l5.and a Metro Plan text amendment to allow fill within the Willamette River greenway for the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project. The project includes replacement of the Interstate 5 bridges over the Willamette River and Canoe Canal (Patterson Slough), including construction and later removal of one or more temporary bridges, demolition of the original and detour Willamette River and Canoe Canal bridges, . construction of replacement bridges, reconstruction of the roadway. approaches to the bridges, rehabilitation of project area, and completion of any required mitigation. Eugene, Springfield and Lane County each adopted identical Metro Plan amendment criteria into their respective implementing ordinances and codes. Eugene Code 9.7730(3), Springfield Development Code Section Chapter 5, Section 5.l4-l00 through 5.14-155, and Lane Code 12.225(2)(a & b), set forth the corresponding Metro Plan amendment criteria. Since Eugene is the lead jurisdiction on this application, those criteria are addressed below under the Eugene Code as follows: I Eugene Code (EC) Section 9.7730(3) requires that the following criteria (in bold and italics) be applied to a Metro Plan text amendment: (a) The amendment must be consistent with the relevant Statewide Planning Goals adopted by the Land Conservation and Development Commission; and Goal 1 Citizen Involvement: To develop a citizen involvement program that insures the opportunity for citizens to be involved in all phases of the planning process. The City has acknowledged provisions for citizen involvement that ensure the opportunity for citizens to be involved in all phases of the planning process and set out requirements for such involvement. The action does not amend the citizen involvement program. The process for reviewing..these amendments complies-with Goall since. it complies. with, and surpasses the requirements of, the citizen involvement provisions. The City of Eugene land use code implements Statewide Planning Goal 1 by requiring that notice of the proposed amendments be given and public hearings be held prior to adoption. As a Type I, site specific Metro Plan amendment, consideration of the amendments begins with a joint City of StaffFindin~s - June 2008 Page 1 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 4 Eugene, City of Springfield and Lane County Planning Commission public hearing on April 29, 2008. Subsequent to deeming the applications complete, 'on February 27, 2008, the City mailed notice of the proposed plan amendments to the Department of Land Conservation and Development, as . required by the Eugene Code and in accordance with State statutes.-Referrals concerning the pending applications were sent to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), City of Springfield, Lane County, the affected Neighborhood Associations (Laurel Hill Valley Citizens and the Harlow Neighborhood Association), and to City departments. On March 14,2008, notice of the joint Planning Commission public hearing was mailed to the applicant, and owners and occupants of property within 300 feet of the subject property, the affected neighborhood groups in all three jurisdictions and other interested parties such as the Whilamut Natural Area of Alton Baker Park. On March 26,2008, notice was also posted in accordance with EC 9.7415(5) and 9.7735(1). On March l4, 2008, notice of the joint Planning Commission public hearing was also published in the Register-Guard, in accordance with the Eugene Code. An additional joint public hearing before ~e elected officials of the City of Eugene, City of Springfield and Lane County will be scheduled following Planning Commission action. Notice to interested and affected parties will also be provided for that hearing. I . \., l In response to the public notice, letters of written testimony have been received, including comments from two of the affected Eugene neighborhood groups; the Laurel Hill Valley Citizens (LHVC) and the Harlow Neighborhood Association (HNA). Responses to these comments are provided under the appropriate criteria below where applicable. Additionally, the federal environmental process applicable to this project provides additional opportunities for public involvement including public meetings, open houses, newsletters, public comment period on the Environmental Assessment, and establishment of a Community Advi.sory Group. These efforts will continue public involvement outside of the land use application process, consistent with. this Goal. \ ' The processes used by Eugene, Springfield and Lane County including mailed, posted and published notice (as well as posting on the City of Eugene web page) for reviewing these amendments complies with Statewide Planning Goall, since it complies with and surpasses the requirements of the State's citizen involvement provisions. Goal 2 - Land Use Planning: To establish a land use planning process and policy framework as a basis for all decisions and actions related to use of land and to assure an adequate factual base for such decisions and actions. Part I - Planning . Part I of Goal 2 requires that actions related to land uSe be consistent with acknowledged comprehensive plans of cities and counties. The Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area General Plan (Metro Plan) is the policy tool that provides a basis for decision-making in this area. The Metro Plan was acknowledged by the State in 1982 to be in compliance with statewide planning goals. These findings and record show that there is an adequate factual base for decisions to be made concerning the proposed amendments. Goal 2 requires that plans be coordinated with the Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 2 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 5 , I j., -. i . r I I plans of affected governmental units and that opportunities be provided for review and comment by affected governmental units. To comply with the Go812 coordination requirement, the City coordinated the review of these amendments with all affected governmental units. Specifically, notice was mailed to the State Department of Land Conservation and Development, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOr), Lane County, and the City of Springfield. Lane County and the CitY of Springfield are participating in this amendment.'. . ........ , .. -f:':. Part II - Exceptions Part II of Goal 2 provides the conditions and standards for which a local jurisdiction can adopt an exception to a statewide goal. Relevant to this request is Statewide Planning Goal 15 , Willamette River Greenway which does.not allow non water-dependent, non water-related uses, such as the proposed transportation facility, within the greenway setback without receiving an exception. Because a goal 15 exception is required by D.lI of the Metro Plan, it is unnecessary to determine if Goal l5 itself would require such an exception. The need for a goal exception is specifically triggered by Policy D.II of the. Metro Plan, Willamette River Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterways Element, which states: I' ';, ., D.11 The taking of an exception shall be required ifa non-water-dependent transportation facility requires placing of fill within the Willamette River Greenway setback An exception to Statewide Plannirzg Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approvedfor Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) 1-5 right of way crossing the Willamette River and within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line, for purpose of constructing a temporary detour bridge, implementing the conditions imposed on the Discretionary Use Approval (Springfield Journal SHR 200J-00115) and removing the temporary detour bridge after completion of the permanent replacement bridge. This exception satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(5) Willamette Greenway; the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2, Part lI(c) for a 'reasons 1 exception; and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to the Metro Plan text, Policy #D.l1, Chapter III, Section D. l I.~ The taking of an exception is consistent with Policy D.II as the proposal includes the placement of fill within the Willamette River Greenway setback for a non-water-dependent transportation facility, at!d is consistent with the Goall5 exception previously taken for the temporary bridge, as described under Policy D.11 above. To acknowledge the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project, Metro Plan Policy D.II is proposed to be amended as follows in bold: An exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approved for Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for purposes of removing and replacing the decommissioned 1-5 bridge, the temporary detour bridge and the Canoe Canal bridge with two new parallel bridges (one southbound and one northbound) wi~hin the 1-5 right-of-way crossing the Willamette River and Canoe Canal and within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line. The exception authorizes construction and later removal of one or more temporary work bridges; demolition of the decommissioned 1-5 Willamette River Bridge, Canoe Canal Bridge, and detour Staff Findings - June' 2008 Page 3 -----.- - ~._--- ------ ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 6 I i; bridges; construction of the two replacement bridges; reconstruction of the roadway approaches to the bridges (1-5 and ramps); rehabilitation of the project area; and completion of any required mitigation of project impacts. In association with these tasks, the exception further authorizes within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line the addition and removal of fill within ODOT right-of-way and the removal of fill within a temporary slope easement east of 1-5. This exception"satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(6), Willamette Greenway, and the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2 Part II(c) for a "reasons" exception, and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to the Metro Plan text, Policy D.ll, Chapter 111, Section D. In compliance with Metro Plan Policy D.II, the following provides analysis fora Goal 15 exception. The Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCD C) administrative rule governing goal exceptions, OAR 660-004-0022(6), states that within urban areas, the proposed siting of uses that are neither water-dependent nor water-related within the Willametle River greenway setback area requires exceptions. The rule states the following: (6) Willamette Greenway: Within an urban area designated on the approved Willamette Greenway Boundary maps, the siting of uses which are neither water-dependent nor water- ridated within the setback line required by Section C.3.k of the Goal may be approved where reasons demonstrate the following: . (a) The use will not have a significant adverse effect on the greenway values of the site under construction or on adjacent land or water areas; (b) The use will not significantly reduce the sites available for water-dependent or water-related uses within the jurisdiction; I I ! (c) The use will provide a significant public benefit; and ..: (d) The use is consistent with the Legislativefindings andpolicy in ORS 390.314 and the Willamette Greenway Plan approved by LCDC under ORS 390.322. , The requirements for Goal exceptions are outlined in OAR 660, Division 4 and are as follows: OAR 660-004-0018 Planning and Zoning for Exception Areas (4) "Reasons" Exceptions: (a) When a local government takes an exception under the "Reasons" section of ORS 197. 732(1) (c) and OAR 660-004-0020 through 660-004-0022, plan and zone designations must limit the uses, density, public facilities and services, and activities to only those that are justified in the exception; Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 4 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 1 I .. (b). When a local government changes the types or intensities of uses or public facilities and services within an area approved as a "Reasons" exception, a new "Reasons" exception is required; ...:~ The taking of goal exceptions requires and results in amendments to the Metro Plan (ORS . p197.732(8.) defines an "exception" as a compl'ehensiveplan provision, including>anamendment to an acknowledged comprehensive plan). The exception provides for the continuation of the existing use ofl-5 by motor vehicles for interstate mobility and commerce purposes. The new 1-5 Willamette River bridges are needed to accommodate that use. The new bridges will be replacement bridges to the decommissioned 1-5 bridge and Canoe Canal bridge, which are part of the 1-5 interstate highway facility whose existence is identified in the Transplan. As such, the new bridges will not be providing a use that does not already exist. OAR 660-004-0022 Reasons Necessary to Justify an Exception Under Goal 2, Part ll(c) An exception under Goal 2, Part II(c) can be takenfor any use not allowed by the applicable goal(s). The types of reasons that mayor may not be used tojustify certain types of uses not allowed on resource lands are setforth in the following sections of this rule: ... (a) The use will not have a significant adverse effect on the greenway values of the site under consideration or on adjacent land or water areas; ... I I I I I L. (6) Willamette Greenway: Within an urban area designated on the approved Willamette Gr-eenway Boundary maps, the siting of uses which are neither water-dependent nor water- related within the setback line required by Section C.3.k of the Goal maybe approved where reasons demonstrate the following: The new bridges would be located in the same location as the decommissioned and detour bridges, although they would require minor shifts of alignment and reconnection of portions of the Franklin Boulevard northbound and southbound on and off ramps as dictated by bridge design. The Whilamut Natural Area of Alton Baker Park lies west of the 1-5 right-of-way in Eugene and the Eastgate Woodlands portion of the Whilamut Natural Area lies east of the 1-5 right-of-way in Springfield. Since the project area includes portions of both parks where they are adjacent to 1-5 and north of the Willamette River, unless otherwise differentiated, this area will be referred to as the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands for the remainder of these fmdings. The area adjacent to ODOT's right-of-way is used as open space. This area contributes to the protection of natural, scenic, and recreational greenway values, including fish ~d wildlife habitat, water quality, protection from flooding, and public recreation. ) Because the replacement bridges and associated fill will be located within existing ODOT right-of- way, which is outside of the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands, there will be no reduction in the amount of permanent open space available at the parks. Because the bridges replace an existing, structurally defective bridge and existing 1-5 facility, there will be no change in use of this area. Existing park and river users are accustomed to experiencing interstate travel at this location. The bicycle-pedestrian path linking Eugene and Springfield will continue to traverse Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 5 ~_._J\!!_~CHMENT A - PAGE 8 ODOT's right-of-way below the new bridges. Public access to the river will not be affected in any significant long-term manner and protection to riparian areas and fish and wildlife habitat will be maintained to the greatest possible extent. Additionally, specific development details will be reviewed for minimizing impacts through compliance with applicable approval criteria, related standards and any necessary conditions of approval, as further reviewed under local permitting .processes such as the Willamette Greenway and Water Resources Conservation Overlay. Zone. The applicant acknowledges that the project will create some short term impacts to Willamette Greenway values during construction. Staging for bridge construction is likely to occupy up to five acres of park open space for up to four years. The bicycle/pedestrian path crossing ODOT's right-of- way will be closed for periods of up to a few days at a time; however, another path under the Canoe . Canal Bridge, located approximately 600 feet to the north of this path, would remain open during any closures to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian traffic. \. - . The new replacement bridges will span the Willamette River and Canoe Canal. Piers will be placed in the Willamette River to support the bridge structures. The new bridges will each have one pier near the center of the river and one on or near the south bank, but no piers will be located in the Canoe Canal. By comparison, the decommissioned bridge has five piers in the water, and the detour bridge has six, so the new bridges will provide a substantial net reduction in pIers compared to the existing number. At a conceptual level, any reduction in the number of piers will have a positive rather than adverse effect on recreational use of the river, consistent with this standard. Additionally, the applicant proposes to implement a plan to prevent construction debris from dropping into the Willamette River. At a conceptual level, with the reduction in the number of piers, the new bridges spanning the Canoe Canal, and the construction measures proposed, the replacement bridges will not have an adverse affect but will have a positive affect on recreational use of the river, consistent with this standard. L- Regarding environmental resources, at the conclusion of bridge construction, fill placed for the detour bridge and for temporary work bridges will be removed and those areas wilt be restored. Bridge construction and demolition, including construction and removal of associated temporary work platforms, will impact riparian vegetation within the greenway (see Figure 6, Approximate Vegetation Disturbance Areas). However, ODOT's temporary eaSement for use of Eastgate Woodlands requires ODOT to restore the property within 5 years of completion of the permanent replacement bridges. The applicant also proposes several construction, site preparation, post development, and coordination measures to minimize impacts to natural resources discussed under Metro Plan Policy E.2, which is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, preliminary data indicates that there will be a net decrease of 3l ,000 cubic yards of fill in the Willamette River (30,000 cubic yards offill added and 61,000 cubic yards offill removed; application, page 5). With the exception of a few of the temporary storage areas, the replacement bridges are proposed within existing ODOT right-of-way which reduces impacts to non-transportation utilized areas. Based on these measures, affects on environmental resources will be minimized and mitigated. Furthermore, additional review of detailed site plans during the federal, state and local processes will require mitigation as appropriate, subject to applicable standards. to \- Regarding scenic values of the Willamette River greenway, the reduction in the total number of piers and in the number of piers within the Willamette River will improve views of the river and, as Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 6 _J\_T_T~~:I!MENT A - PAGE 9 I I I. I> such, contribute to a positive visual impact. Also, because a key consideration of the project is providing.an aesthetically pleasing solution that recognizes the scenic beauty of the project area, OnOT has considered a range of bridge types and pier options, taking carefully into consideration community input obtained through a public process. At this phase, OnOT has developed two conceptual schematics illustrating the new 1-5 bridges, but OnOT has not developed detailed .... engiileering design plans. Ulthnately, selection of the bridge type for each segment will be dependent primarily on aesthetic considerations and budget. The applicant has indicated the public input on the design will also be provided through other public outreach efforts. While construction activities will temporarily impact greenway values, with the reduction in piers and fill, the location of the bridges in the existing right-of-way, and the mitigation measures proposed by the applicant, the new 1-5 Willamette River bridges will have no significant adverse effect on the greenway values of OOOT's right-of-way (if any) or the adjacent park lands and water areas, consistent with this standard. Additionally, specific construction and oper~tional details regarding mitigation of riparian impacts will be appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. L I . (b) The use will not significantly reduce the sites available for water-dependent or water-related uses within the jurisdiction; ... Ii I. I I I . I i. The two new replacement bridges Will not reduce any sites available for water-dependent or water- related uses in Eugene or Springfield because the bridges will be constructed entirely within the same existing OnOT 1-5 right-of-way where the decommissioned 1-5 bridge and temporary detour bridge are located. The new bridges will have one pier each near the center of the river and one pier on or near the south bank (the Canoe Canal on the north side would be spanned completely and these bridges will be perched on fill associated with the roadway). In contrast, the decommissioned bridge has five piers in the water, and the detour bridge has six. At a conceptual level, a net reduction in piers in the water will be beneficial for water-dependent uses. Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, this standard is met. . (c) The use will provide a significant public benefit; and... 1-5 is the primary north-south highway corridor serving California, Oregon, and Washington. The facility pro.vides for the significant movement of people, freight, and other services, and serves as the backbone for international, interstate, and intrastate commerce. The applicant notes that on average, approximately 49,000 vehicles cross the Willamette River through the Eugene/Springfield area on 1-5 each day, with numbers reaching greater than 63,000. Approximately l6 to 18 percent of daily trips are made by tractor trailer rigs hauling freight. By the year 2030, 1-5 is expected to accommodate approximately 73,000 daily vehicle trips. The connectivity and mobility that 1-5 provides to both the local community and to intrastate and interstate travelers constitutes a significant public benefit. This facility is recognized in the 1999 Oregon Highway P!an and in TransPlan-; Therefore this standard is met. (d) The use is consistent with the Legislativefindings andpolicy in ORS 390.314 and the Willamette Greenway Plan approved by LCDC under ORS 390.322. Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 7 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 10 i The legislative findings and policy in ORS 390.3 l4 are: ORS 390.3 14. Legislative findingsand policy (I) The Legislative Assembly finds that, to protect and preserve the natural, scenic, and recreational qualities of lands along the Willamette River, . to. preserve and restore historical sites, structures, facilities, and objects on lands along the Willamette River for public education and enjoyment and to further the state policy established under ORS 390.010, it is in the public interest to develop and maintain a natural, scenic, historical, and recreational greenway upon lands along the . Willamette River to be known as the Willamette River Greenway. As previously stated, the 1-5 Willamette River bridge predates the adoption of Goal 15. As an element ofl-5, the bridge is provided for in TransPlan, which has been acknowledged to be in compliance with all statewide planning goals. Construction of the replacement bridges and removal . of the decommissioned Canoe Canal and detour bridges will temporarily affect greenway values during construction. However, as discussed under Goal 6 (air, water quality, land), Goal 8 (recreation) and Metro Plan Policy E.2 (environment), and the remainder of these findings, the applicant proposes several measures to reduce or mitigate environmental and recreational impacts, and the reduction of piers and fill will have a positive affect on scenic resources along the Willarnette River Greenway, consistent with this standard. Additionally, specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. . (2) In providingfor the development and maintenance of the Willamette River.. Greenway, the Legislative Assembly: I.: (a) Recognizing the need for coordinated planning for such greenway, finds it necessary to provide for development and implementation of a plan for such greenway through the cooperative efforts of the state and units of local government. The State of Oregon and units of local government, including Lane County and the cities of . Springfield and Eugene, have' cooperated in the implementation of greenway planning as re'luired . by legislative intent. The 1-5 Willamette River Bridge Replacement Project, subject to this application, is and will be permitted through this established local and statewide greenway planning process. (b) Recognizing the need of the people of this state for existing -residential, commercial, and agricultural use of lands along theWillamette River, finds it 'necessary to permit the continuation of existing uses of lands that are included within such greenway; but, for the benefit of the people of this state, also to li1Jlit the intensification and change in the use of such lands so that such uses shall remain, to the greatest possible degree, compatible with the preservation of the natural, scenic, historical and recreational qualities of such lands. As previously stated, 1-5 and the 1-5Willamette River bridge predate Goal 15. Like the original Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 8 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 11 \ 'I t bridge, the replacement bridges and their approaches will be located within ODOT's established 1-5 right-of-way, thus avoiding significant adverse effects on the greenway and greenway values, consistent with this policy. Furthermore, as discussed under Goal 6 (air, water quality), Goal 8 Recreation and Metro Plan Policy E.2 (environment), and the remainder of these findings, the applicant proposes several measures to reduce or mitigate environmental and recreational impacts, and -the.recluction of piers and fill will have a positive affect on scenic resources along the Willamette River Greenway, consistent with this standard. (c) Recognizing that the use of lands for farm use is compatible with the purposes of the Willamette River Greenway, finds that the use of lands for farm use should continue within the greenway without restriction. I i I .1.: The 1-5 Willamette River replacement bridges will be located entirely within the urbanized area of Springfield and Eugene, and not upon or near farm land within the greenway boundary. For this reason, the project will in no way impede the continuation offann uses within the greenway, consistent with this policy. (d) Recognizing the need for central coordination of such greenway for the best interests of all the people of this state, finds it necessary to place the responsibility for the coordination of the development and maintenance of such greenway in the State Parks and Recreation Department. I. I I Constructing the 1-5 replacement bridges in no way limits or changes Oregon State Parks' responsibilities for the coordination of the development and maintenance of the greenway. (e) Recognizing the lack of need for the acquisition offee title to aU lands along the Willamette River for exclusive public use for recreational purposes in such greenway, finds it necessary to limit the area within such greenway that may be acquiredfor state parks and recreational areas andfor public recreational use within the boundaries of units of local government along the Willamette River. I.. The replacement bridges and approaches will be located within existing public right-of-way that has been used for interstate highway purposes since before the enactment of the Willamette River greenway statutes and Goal 15. The land is in the public domain and will remain in the public domain after completion of construction of the new replacement bridges and demolition and removal of the decommissioned bridge, Canoe Canal bridge, and detour bridge. Therefore, the proposed project will not increase or decrease the amount of land available for acquisition for state parks and recreational areas or for public recreational use within the boundaries of units of local government along the Willamette River. Temporary staging areas outside of public rights-of-way will be rehabilitated to their previous state. Therefore, an exception to Goal 15 is warranted for the reasons stated above, specifically OAR 660- 0040-0022 (6)( c) and consistency with the remaining reasons, for the placement of fill within the greenway setback for the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Replacement project. Goal exception requirements are as follows: . Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 9 ___..____ ____ - __ _. __ _~ - .6_----- --- ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 12 ._ ~__ __ ____ .___ _._ ___ r_'. --___ --- ----.----- - ------- - OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2, Part II(c), Exception Requirements (1) If a jurisdiction determines there are reasons consistent with OAR 660-004-0022 to use resource lands for uses not allowed by the applicable Goal or to allow public facilities or services not allowed by the applicable Goal, the justification shall be set forth in the comprehensive plan as an exception. - The reasons consistent with OAR 660-004-0022(6) are set forth above to allow the construction of the 1-5 Willamette River and Canoe Canal replacement bridges and the removal of the decommissioned bridge, existing Canoe Canal bridge, and temporary detour bridge, including the placement of fill needed for the new bridges or for temporary work bridges required to construct the new bridges or remove the decommissioned or detour bridges. The justifications are set forth in the comprehensive plan as an exception consistent with this rule. (2) The four factors in Goal 2 Part II(c) required to be addressed when taking an exception to a Goal are: (a) "Reasons justify why the state policy embodied in the applicable goals should not apply": The exception shall set forth the facts and assumptions used as the basis for determining that a state policy embodied in a goal should not apply to specific properties or situations, including the amount oflandfor the use being plann~d and why the use requires a location on resource land; The reasons justifying why the replacement bridges should be permitted within the greenway setback area, and why associated fill should be permitted, are those addressed above in the analysis demonstrating compliance with the criteria in OAR 660-004-0022(6). An exception to the Statewide Planning Goal 15 is necessary to allow additional fill to be placed in the greenway per Metro Plan Policy D.II. Here, approximately 30,000 cubic yards of fill will be placed within ODOT's existing 1-5 right-of-way, while approximately 61,000 cubic yards offill will be removed, resulting it! a net decrease of 31 ,000 cubic yards of fill in the Willamette River. (: Except for a few acres of park land needed temporarily for staging construction, all development will occur within ODOT's existing 1-5 right-of-way, which is not resource land. The bridges require a location over the Willamette River greenway because 1-5 already exists both north and south of the Willamette River and the highway cannot practicably be relocated to avoid crossing the river. (b) ''Areas which do not require a new exception cannot reasonably accommodate the use": (A) The exception shall indicate on a map or otherwise describe the location of possible alternative areas co 11;sidered for the use, which do not require a new exception. The area for which the exception is taken shall be identified; (B) To show why the particular site is justified, it is necessary to discuss why other areas which do not require a new exception cannot reasonably accommodate the proposed use. Economic factors can be considered along Staff Findings - June 2008 Page J 0 ------ - ~.....- --- --- . .__AT~AC~~_ENT A - PAGE 13 I. t with other relevant factors in determining that the use cannot reasonably be accommodated in other areas. Under the alternative factor the following questions shall be addressed: (i) Can the proposed use be reasonably accommodated on nonresource land that would not require an exception, including" increasing the density of uses' on nonresource land? If not, why not? r ~. I. (ii) Can the proposed use be reasonably accommodated on resource land that is already irrevocably committed to nonresource uses, not allowed by the applicable Goal, including resource land in existing rural centers, or by increasing the density of uses on committed lands? Ifnot, why not? (iii) Can the proposed use be reasonably accommodated inside an urban growth boundary? If not, why not? I 1"". (iv) Can the proposed use be reasonably accommodated without the provision of a proposed public facility or service? Ifnot, why not? (C) This alternative areas standard can be met by a broad review of similar types of areas rather than a review of specific alternative sites. Initially, a local government adopting an exception need assess only whether those similar types of areas in the vicinity could not reasonably accommodate the proposed use. Site specific comparisons are not required of a local government taking an exception, unless another party to the local proceeding can describe why there are specific sites that can more reasonably accommodate the proposed use. A detailed evaluation of specific alternative sites is thus not required unless such sites are specifically described with facts to support the assertion that the sites are more reasonable by another party during the local exceptions proceeding. I' The applicant states that 1..:5 replacement bridges are needed because the decommissioned bridge is structurally unsafe and the detour bridge was not constructed to accommodate anticipated traffic volumes over the long term, nor does it meet current seismic standards. The replacement bridges and their approaches will be located entirely within ODOT's existing 1-5 right-of-way. Because the Willamette River is quite wide in the vicinity of 1-5, piers will again be needed within the setback area to support the proposed replacement bridges; however, fewer piers will be used compared to existing conditions. In addition, fill is required to support the approaches to the new bridges, including the new bridges over the Canoe Canal. Given the non-water dependent and non-water-related nature of the use, and given that fill would be required for pier support and bridge approaches regardless of where in the vicinity the bridges are located, there are no alternative sites crossing the Willamette River that would not also require a new exception. It is noted that the proposed use will be located inside an urban growth boundary on land that is neither agricultural nor forest land. By remaining within the existing ODOT right-of- way, the project avoids significant impacts to park lands. Because transportation improvements, Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 11 ____~!_!A~~~ENT ~ - P_~GE--i4 '.:, including bridges, are considered public facilities, the use cannot be reasonably accommodated without the provision of the proposed public facility. Analysis regarding possible alternative.sites is discussed further under subsection (c) directly below, which is incorporated herein by reference. .....-...:. :'..:.' , . -.\ (c) The long-term environmental, economic, social and energy consequences .. 'resulting from the use at the proposed site with measures designed to reduce adverse impacts are not significantly more adverse than would typically result from the same proposal being located in other areas requiring a Goal exception. The exception shall describe the characteristics of each alternative areas considered by the jurisdiction for which an exception might be taken, the typical advantages and disadvantages of using the area for a use not allowed by the Goal, and the typical positive and negative consequences resulting from the use at the proposed site with measures designed to reduce adverse impacts. A detailed evaluation of specific alternative sites is not required unless such sites are specifically described with facts to support the assertion that the sites have significantly fewer adverse impacts during the local exceptions proceeding. The exception shall include the reasons why the consequences of the use at the chosen site are not significantly more adverse than would typically result from the same proposal being located in areas requiring a goal exception other than the proposed site. Such reasons shall include but are not limited to, the facts used to determine which resource land is least productive; the ability to sustain resource uses near the proposed use; and the long-term economic impact on the general area caused by irreversible removal of the land from the resource base. Other possible impacts include the effects of the proposed use on the water table, on the costs of improving roads and on the costs to special service districts; ;,....: No other sites requiring exceptions are being considered for this use. This is because the use is not a new use, but rather the replacement of an existing, structurally deficient bridge within an existing right-of-way. Locating the replacement bridges within the existing right-of-way is both necessary and practicable because that right-of-way lines up with the existing 1-5 approaches to the north and south. Relocating the bridge replacement project outside the existing 1-5 right-of-way would require ODOT to relocate the appro.aches at considerable additional cost and impact to not only the greenway, but also to protected park and recreational resources, including the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands. Further, relocating the bridge could require the closure of on6 or more existing interchanges or ramps, result in demolition of residences and businesses, and result in a hazardous geometry due to the presence of immovable geologic features. Alternative bridge alignment locations to the north or south of the existing footprint and right-of-way were dismissed. from further analysis due to the following impacts: - Right-of-way would need to be acquired from Alton Baker Park, which is prohibited under Section 4(f) of the federal Department of Transportation Act of 1966 unless there are no other prudent and feasible alternatives. -Right-of-way would need to be acquired from homes and/or businesses on the south side of the river that would not be required if the highway remains on its current alignment. - A shifted highway would be closer to existing homes, resulting in higher noise and visual impacts. - Major high-tension power transmission lines are located on both sides of the bridge and .one i. I. t Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 12 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 15 -- --_.---.-----~--- --~ .-_. - ...,-----.....-........,.~ . --- --- would need to be relocated if the alignment was shifted. I I . l I I I I I. . ., Given the replacement nature of this project, the fact that crossing the Willamette River at some location is unavoidable, and ODOT's inability to realign 1-5 on adjoining lands based on federal restrictions protecting park lands, there are no feasible and prudent alternatives tore-using the existing 1-5 right-of-way. Accordingly, in.temisof economic, social,environrnental, and energy. consequences, there are no areas warranting comparison. 1-5 is an important highway in the State of Oregon and freight corridor on the west coast. The connectivity and mobility it provides statewide, interstate, and regional travelers provides tremendous benefits both economically and socially. The ability to rebuild within the existing ODOT I~5 right-of-way minimizes energy consumption and environmental-impacts, as the current right-of-way use for interstate travel purposes is maintained. As such, consistent with this standard, the right-of-way is the least productive land in the immediate area in terms of sustaining resource uses. It's continued use for this purpose also means that no other resource or recreational lands need be removed from the resource base therefore this standard is met. (d) The proposed uses are compatible with other adjacent uses or will be so rendered through measures designed to reduce adverse impacts. The exception shall describe how the proposed use will be rendered compatible with adjacent land uses. The exception shall demonstrate that the proposed use is situated in such a manner as to be compatible with surrounding natural resources and resource management or production practices. Compatible is not intended as an absolute term meaning no interference or adverse impacts of any type with adjacent uses. 1- Uses adjacent to the affected portion ofl-5 include park land and the Willamette River, and residential and industrial uses. The temporary staging areas are adjacent to park land and the Willamette River, ODOT and Lane County property, and between 1-5 and 1-5 ramps. With the exception of the temporary staging areas, the replacement bridges and associated improvements are being proposed within approximately the same location as both the original and temporary bridges and will be located within existing rights-of-way and right-of-way easements. Considering that this area has been utilized as the 1-5 bridge location since prior to the establishment of Goal 15, replacement of the facility in the same location is more compatible than relocating the facility and converting non-transportation areas to this use. The proposal also includes a reduction in the number of piers from the existing 11 piers to S, a net reduction in fill, and sound walls. At a conceptual level, these elements will reduce adverse impacts to environmental, recreational and scenic resources and will increase compatibility of the project with adjacent recreational, residential and industrial uses of the area. Regarding the temporary staging locations, the impacts will be temporary and the applicant has proposed several measures to reduce adverse impacts of the construction activities including: a plan to prevent debris from falling into the Willamette River, maintaining a continuous bicycle/pedestrian path, limiting work hours, and restoring the temporary staging areas upon project completion. Additional measures proposed by the applicant to reduce environmental, recreational and scenic impacts, are further discussed under Metro Plan Policy E.2, GoalS below, and OAR 660-004-0022(6)(a) above, which are incorporated herein by reference. These measures will further reduce adverse impacts to the adjacent park land and Willamette River, residential, and industrial uses consistent with this standard. I I. I ~,.. . . Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 13 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 16 In addition, compatibility with greenway and Goal 5 resource values associated with the Willamette River, riparian areas both north and south of the river, the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands will be further ensured through compliance with acknowledged Eugene and Springfield permitting requirements adopted to implement Goals 15 and 5; Willamette River Greenway and greenway setback review, and the Water Resources Conservation Overlay Zone, subject to applicable standards and conditions. As.noted~ear1ier:i the bridges are an existing use within the . ODOT right-of-way. This proposal replaces the original bridge with two new bridges: one for northbound traffic, the other for southbound traffic, and replaces the Canoe Canal bridge. It also removes the detour bridge. Given that a bridge has been accommodating highway traffic in this area for decades, most new impacts will be-associated with bridge construction or demolition. By remaining within the existing ODOT right-of-way, and employing Best Management Practices and other impact avoidance or mitigation techniques identified or required during the local permitting processes, impacts to surrounding natural resource lands can be minimized to protect natural resource qualities in and the use and enjoyment of the Willametle River, the Willamette River greenway, and the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands. ....""j. .,t "~'.: Based on the above findings, an exception to Goal 15 is warranted and meets the requirements of OAR 660-0040-0020 for the placement of fill within the greenway setback for the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Replacement project. Therefore, the amendments and goal exception are consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 2. Goal 3 - Agricultural Land: To preserve and maintain agricultural lands. Goal 3 is not applicable to these amendments as the subject property and actions do not affect any agricultural plan designation or use. Goal 3 excludes lands inside an acknowledged urban growth boundary from the definition of agricultural lands. Since the subject property is entirely within the acknowledged urban growth boundary, Goal 3 is not relevant and the amendments do not affect the area's compliance with Statewide Planning Goal 3. ! i V Goal 4 - Forest Land: To conservefores! lands. Goal 4 is not applicable to these amendments as the subject property and actions do not affect any forest plan designation or use. Goal 4 does not apply within urban growth boundaries and, therefore, does not apply to the subject property, which is within the Eugene-Springfield urban growth boundary (OAR 660-006-0020). Therefore, Goal 4 is not relevant and the amendments do not affect the area,'s compliance with Statewide Planning Goal 4. . Goal 5 - Open Spaces. Scenic and Historic Areas. and Natural Resources: To conserve open space and protect natural and scenic resources. The following administrative rule (OAR 660-023-0250) is applicable ~o this post-acknowledgement . plan amendment (PAPA) request: (3) Local governments are not required to apply Goal 5 in consideration of a PAPA unless the PAPA affects a Goal 5 resource. For purposes of this section, a PAPA would affect a.Goal5 . . Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 14 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 17 I I I I.. . t res.purce only if: (a) The PAPA creates or amends a resource list or a portion of an acknowledged plan or land use regulation adopted in order to protect a significant Goal 5 resource or to address specific requirements .of Goal 5; (b) The PAPA allows new uses that could be conflicting uses with a particular significant Goat:5" reSource site.on an acknowledged resource list; or (c) The PAPA amends an acknowledged UGB andfactucil information is submitted demonstrating that a resource site, or the impact areas of such a site, is included in the amended UGB area.. l The subject project area includes Goal 5 re~ource sites; the Willamette River, a riparian resource between 1-5 and E. l8th Avenue, and riparian resources in Alton Baker Park (the Canoe Canal). Subsections (a) and (c) above are not applicable to this request as the proposed amendments do not create or amend a list of Goal 5 resources, do not amend a plan or code provision adopted in order to protect a significant Goal 5 resource or to address specific requirements of Goal 5, and do not amend the acknowledged Urban Growth Boundary. Regarding subsection (b), the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project is replacement of an existing use in approximately the same location, even considering the additional widening of the roadway. Therefore, (b) is not applicable because the project includes replacement of an existing use, not 'l: new use. Based on the findings above, Statewide Planning Goal 5 is either not applicable or is met through compliance with the acknowledged local permi~g process. Goal 6 - Air. Water and Land Resources Qualitv: To maintain and improve the quality of the air, water, ant! land resources of the state. Goal 6 addresses waste.and process discharges from development, and is aimed at protecting air, water and land from impacts from those discharges. The proposal does not amend the metropolitan ar~'s air, water quality or land resource policies. The applicant's findings show that the City can reasonably expect that future development of the site will comply with applicable environmental laws as follows: \. I" .1 I I.;, Additiona!lY, regarding air quality, the replacement bridges themselves should have no adverse impact on air quality because they merely replace an existing facility that has been decommissioned as being structurally unsafe. Regardless of the potential future addition of 6 lanes, the new bridges do not necessarily result in more people driving on 1-5. Instead, existing traffic volumes will be shifted from the detour bridge to the new bridges. If the decommissioned 1-5 bridge is not replaced, those vehicles would be forced each day onto city streets and county roads not designed for- such trips. The ensuing degradation to the air quality along. these alternative routes caused by unmanageable congestion would. be in direct contradiction to the purpose of Goal 6. Even the potential ipcrease in the number of lanes does not necessarily increase the number of people driving on I~5, but rather increaseS continuous traffic movement. Regarding air quality, this goal is met by the proposed plan amendments. Regarding water quality, construction of the replacement bridges and the removal of the decommissioned and detour bridges will impact water quality by affecting soils and vegetation Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 15 . ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 18 I I . I I. within the Willamette River and along the green~ay setback. Water quality may also be affected where impervious surfaces are added along the bridge approaches.. Where areas are paveg., water cannot penetrate the soils so it rushes over the surface. This can increase erosion and the movement of fme sediments and increase pollutant loads in watercourses. While construction of the replacement bridges will result in some new impervious surfaces,. overall the project will result in a net decrease in impervious surface because ODOT will remove the approach roadway for the detour.. bridge. The applicant also proposes that water quality impacts will be mitigated through the use of effective land-based stonnwater treatment systems that include measures to preserve and restore. mature vegetation and maximize infiltration. The use of construction techniques that include temporary and permanent Best Management Practices for erosion and sediment control and spill control and prevention also can achieve compliance with clean water stanqards. Oregon Highway Plan SA.l directs ODOT to implement Best Management Practices. Based on these findings, water quality will be maintained and mitigated, consistent with this goal. In addition, through the local permitting process, Eugene and Springfield can impose appropriate conditions to ensure that Best Management Practices are employed and that water quality is maintained, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. By doing so, Goal 6 is satisfied.2 Regarding noise, a proj ect noise technical report was prepared as part of the Environmental Assessment (as required by NEPA) to analyze potential noise impacts resulting from the project. Per the onaT Noise Manual (June 1996) analysis procedures, noise mitigation measures were evaluated to reduce noise levels to nearby residences as a result of the project. Noise walls were determined to meet the ODOT effectiveness and cost-effectiveness criteria in two locations and are recommended as mitigation (see supplemental information, Figures 7-9). The final wall locations will be determined after public input is completed.as part of the NEP A process. Additionallx, as stated on page 13 of the written statement, the applicant proposes the following general measures: . Continue public involvement through design and construction · liIIlit work hours · limit noise ~ . i Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, the proposed amendments are consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 6. Additionally, specific construction and operational details will be . appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject to applic(ible approval criteria and related standards. Goal 7 - Areas Subiect to Natural Disasters and Hazards: To protect life and property from natural disasters and hazards. Goal 7 requires that local government planning programs include provisions to protect people and 2 CurrentlYt there is no stormwater treatment for the decommissioned and detour bridges. Providing water quanty treatment for the new bridges, which would be required through the applicant's proposed Best Management Practices, would have a beneficial effect on water quality. The water quality report for the project noted that the amount of runoff from the bridges would be so minor relative to the volume of flow in the Willamette River that the effect would be negligible. ' Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 16 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 19 ,- I. I .1. ". t property from natural hazards such as floods, land slides, earthquakes and related hazards, tsunamis and wildfires. It is not subject to hazards normally associated with wildfires, or tsunamis. Consistent with this goal, the City of. Eugene has adopted provisions regulating development in floodplains and floodways, and building codes regulations that address slopes and seismic concerns. To the extent that this is relevant to the proposed plan amendment, the existing detour bridge does not meet current seismic standards. Consistent with this goal, the proposed bridge replacement project will provide bridges that meet current seismic, safety and design standards. I l ,- Additionally; regarding slopes, portions of the project area are identified on the map for Relative Slope Instability Hazards. The portions of the project site in the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands, and the area southeast of 1-5 and the Willamette River are identified as moderate hazard areas. However, both of these areas are proposed for only temporary staging locations. The applicant has completed 10 borings on either side of the river as part of a geotechnical investigation related to the.temporary detour bridge (three north of the river, seven south of the river). A geological report (which was not submitted for this application) indicates that geological resources in the project area consist of fill material, alluvium, and bedrock. The processes affecting these materials are man-made, such as excavation and grading, and natural. Since there is an existing bridge, impacts to geological resources would consist of relatively minor changes in topography, minor settlement of near-surface materials, possible increase in erosion, minor changes to the river flow regime and related sediment and related sediment transport, and potential changes in slope stability (from vegetation removal). These impacts would occur as a result of excavation, phicement of structure and fills, and clearing and grading. Impacts related to construction would be temporary, localized changes to river flow regime; stability of partially constructed slopes; erosion; and resultant sedimentation. The highest risk to landslide would be slope failure into the Willamette River; however, considering the low height of the riverbank, such a failure would be limited to a small area relative to the width of the river. The applicant states that geotechnical investigations will also be completed during design to determine the best method to seat foundations and piers and to reduce effects related to hazards. Additionally, slopes will be constructed in a manner that reduces potential for erosion or small landslides. Therefore, the project would have no permanent effects on geological resources. In the context of a plan amendment, landslide and earthquake hazards are addressed consistent with this goal. Furthermore, specific construction details will be .further reviewed during the local permitting processes, subject to applicable standards, such as, based on the earthquake hazard, geotechnical investigations should be completed prior to construction to determine the best method to seat foundations, piers, and bents to reduce effects related to earthquakes (e.g., lateral spread, liquefaction). In addition, slopes should be constructed in a manner that reduces the poteIitial for erosion or small landslides. Regarding flooding, portions of the project area are located within the floodway and floodplain of the Willamette River. As previously stated, both Eugene and Springfield have adopted ordinances regulating construction within floodways and floodplains. Furthermore, in response to Metro Plan policies C:30 and C.3l below, which is incorporated herein by reference, because the 1-5 Willamette Bridge project is located within a FEMA designated regulatory floodway and . ! Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 17 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 20 floodplain, the design of the replacement bridges must satisfy the regulations set forth in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP requires that any modifications that cause a rise in the Base Flood Elevations (BFEs, which corresponds to water surface elevations associated . with the tOO-year flood event) must be approved by FEMA. Two pier location scenarios are currently under consideration (Proposed Option A and Proposed Option B, see written statement page 9). Based on preliminary modeling, Option A would result in an increase of 0.02 feet over existing conditions for the lOO-year flood event. For the Environmental Assessment, 'the hydraulic conditions of the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project were analyzed using the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers' HEC-RAS model. Natural, existing and proposed conditions (with pier locations Options A and B) were modeled. Conservative assumptions regarding pier size were used for this modeling. Refined design of the concepts and further hydraulic analysis will allow confirmation that the proposed project will result in no rise of the base flood elevation. Option B would result in a decrease of 0.54 feetfor the lOO-year flood event, which is consistent with the no-rise standard and consistent with this goal. While Option A shows an increase of 0.02, which does not meet the no-rise requirement, this is not a detailed analysis and modeling will be run 'again when the design is refined for the permitting process in order to meet the no-rise requirement. A FEMA "no-rise" certification will be obtained from the City of Eugene for any construction or structures within floodways/special flood hazard areas that are outside of rights-of-way, within Eugene. In addition, the applicant states that the no-rise condition is also a requirement of ODOT for any bridge replacement project. Other hazards, such as earthquakes and severe winter storms can be mitigated at the time of development based on accepted building codes and building techniques. As previously stated, specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local pennitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. fo Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, the preliminary no-rise data, the landslide information, and findings above, the proposed plan amendments are consistent with Statewiqe Planning Goal 7. Goal 8 - Recreational Needs: To satisfy the recreational needs a/the citizens a/the state and visitors and, where appropriate, to provide for the siting of necessary recreational facilities including destination resorts.. . Goal 8 ensures the provision of recreational facilities to Oregon citizens and is primarily concerned with the provision of those facilities in non-urban areas of the state. East Alton Baker Park i~ located to the east and west ofI-'s right-of-way, which includes recreation, bicycle and pedestrian paths and the canoe canal (utilized by kayakers). The portion of the park that is west of 1-5 in Eugene is now called the Whilamut Natural Area and the portion of the park east of 1-5 in Springfield is called the Eastgate Woodlands of the Whilamut Natural Area (abbreviated here as Eastgate Woodlands) and these areas will be referred to as such for the remainder of these. findings unless otherwise indicated. The demolition and construction of the bridges will take place within the 1-5 right-of-way, which is not part of the park; therefore the replacement bridges will not remove or increase recreational opportunities at the park. However, removal of the detour bridge will include I Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 18 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 21 I . L I . removal of fill material from and rehabilitation of a portion .of Eastgate Woodlands. The temporary easement obtained by ODOT to do this work requires rehabilitation of the area within 5 years of completion of the permanent bridges. This easement will ensure that recreational use of this area will return to pre-project conditions. :'~~. '. ~\ ......;..1 ." .' . Additionally, dUringconstroction the park will be temporarily affected. Through. the other. local peI'IIl;itting processes (Willamette Greenway permit, Water Resources Conservation Overlay review, Willamette Greenway setback, etcetera) construction impacts will be required to be minimized through conditions of approval that would preserve bicycle, pedestrian and boater safety, and to maintain consistency with operational provisions in the East Alton Baker Park Plan (which includes the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate- Woodlands). Public access to the Willamette River will continue to be provided through ODOT's right-of-way under the bridges therefore public access to the river will not be affected (written statement page 49, Metro Plan Policy D.9). Although the bicycle/pedestrian pathways may be impacted during construction, the application will provide a continuous route across ODOT right-of-way forthe bicycle/pedestrian pathways that will be maintained on both the north and the south sides of the river during construction (written statement, page 61, Willakenzie Area Plan, Neighborhood Design Element- Willamette Greenway, Use Management Standard 2). Additionally, specific. construction and operational details regarding public access and recreational impacts will be appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. Comments were received stating that (to summarize) the bridge provides a crossing of Franklin Boulevard and the railroad and that this provides an opportunity for those crossing to be made available to pedestrians and bicyclists. Additionally, the comments note that since the replacement is not accommodating such a crossing, the applicant has insufficient analysis regarding the provision of adequate access to Alton Baker Park. As discussed in more detail under the Metro Plan Transportation Element, Policy F.l4 below which is incorporated herein by reference, the applicant proposes a continuous route across ODOT right-of-way for the bicycle/pedestrian pathways to be _ maintained on both the north and the south sides of the river during construction. This mitigates for the temporary impacts to the existing bicycle/pedestrian pathways and ensures that connections between existing paths and to near-by Knickerbocker Bridge are maintained. In the context of the proposed plan amendments, this adequately addresses access for bicyclists and pedestrians as these are the existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities affected by the proposed amendments. . I I \. I: ~ l" Based on the findings above, in the context of a plan amendment, the proposal will not impact the provision of public recreational facilities, nor will they affect access to existing or.future public recreational facilities. The amendments are therefore consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 8. Goal 9 - Economic Development: To provide adequate opportunities throughout the state for a variety of economic activities vital to the health, welfare, and prosperity of Oregon's citizens. The Administrative Rule for Statewide Planning Goal 9 (OAR 660 Division 9) requires that the City "[p ]rovide for at least an adequate supply of sites of suitable sizes, types, location, and service levels for a variety of industrial and commercial uses consistent with plan policies[.]" Among other things, the rule requires that cities complete an "Economic Opportunities Analysis." OAR 660-009- 0015. Based on the Economic Opportunities Analysis, cities are to prepare Industrial and Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 19 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 22 Commercial Development Policies. OAR 660-009-0020. Finally OAR 660-009-0025 requires that cities designate industrial and commercial lands sufficient to meet short and long term needs. OAR 660-009-0010(2) provides that the detailed planning requirements imposed by OAR 660 Division 9 apply "at the time of each periodic review of the plan (ORS 197.712(3))." In addition, OAR 660- . 009-0010(4) provides that, when a city changes its plan designations of lands in excess of two acres to or from commercial or industrial use, pursuant to a post acknowledgment plan amendment,. it must address all applicable planning requirements and (a) demonstrate that the proposed amendment is consistent with the parts of its acknowledged comprehensive plan which address the requirements of OAR 660 Division 9; or (b) amend its comprehensive plan to explain the proposed amendment pursuant to OAR 660 Division 9; or ( c) adopt a combination of (a) and (b) consistent with the requirements of Division 9. I I In the context of OAR 660-009-0010(4), the Eugene Commercial Lands Study (ECLS) is acknowledged for compliance with the requirements of Goal 9 and its Administrative Rule. The EeLS constitutes the City's obligation under OAR 660 Division 9. However, since the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project is occurring in approximately the same location of the existing bridges, within existing right-of-way, existing right-of-way easements, or temporary staging areas (within existing right-of-way or park property), OAR 660-009-00l0(4) does not apply because the proposed amendment will not remove any land from the commercial land supply. Therefore, the amendments are consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 9. Goal 10 - Housing: To provide for the housing needs of the citizens of the state. I. I \. Goal 10 requires that communities plan for and maintain an inventory of buildable residential land for needed housing units. The Administrative Rule for Statewide Planning Goal 10 (OAR 660 Division 8) states that ''the mix and density of needed housing is determined in the housing needs projection. Sufficient buildable land shall be designated on the comprehensive plan map to satisfy housing needs by type and density range as determined in the housing needs projection. The local buildable lands inventory must document the amount of buildable land in each residential plan designation." The comprehensive plan map for the City is the Metro Plan land use diagram. The 1999 Eugene-Soringfield Metropolitan Area Residential Lands and Housing Study (RLS) is acknowledged for compliance with the requirements of Goal lO and its Administrative Rule. t.. As previously stated, the proposed plan amendment will accommodate a bridge replacement project that will occur in approximately the same location as the existing bridges, within existing right-of- way, existing right-of-way easements, or temporary staging areas (that are within right-of-way or park property). Therefore, the inventory of residential land will not be impacted and thus Statewide Planning Goal lO is not applicable. Goalll - Public Facilities and Services: To plan and develop a timely, orderly and efficient arrangement of public facilities and services to serve as aframeworkfor urban and rural development. The area affected by the amendments, the bridge right-of-way, is located entirely within the City limits of both the City of Eugene and the City of Springfield. The proposed amendments would allow demolition and replacement of the temporary 1-5 bridge and reconstruction of the roadway Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 20 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 23 I . i I- 1-. I' I approaches to the bridges, which are all public facilities that are acknowledged in the Oregon . Highway Plan and the local regional transportation plan (TransPlan)'as necessary public facilities and services. Replacement of the temporary bridge with permanent bridges that meets current seismic standards ensures that this public facility continues to safely serve the area. The provision of these amendments does not significantly affect the plamring or development of future public . facilities or services. . Therefore~the airlehdmehtSare 'consistent with Statewide Plamring- Goal I!. Goal 12 - Transportation: To provide and encourage a safe, convenient and economic transportation system. Goall2 is implemented through the Transportation Planning Rule (TPR), as defined in Oregon Administrative Rule OAR 660-0l2-0000, et seq. The Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area Transportation Plan (TransPlan) provides the regional policy framework through which the TPR is implemented at the local level. The TPR (OAR 660-012-0060) states that when land use changes, including amendments to acknowledged comprehensive plans, significantly affect an existing or planned transportation facility the local government shall put in place measures to assure that the allowed land uses are consistent with the identified function, capacity and performance standards (level of service, volume to capacity ratio, etc.) of the facility. TransPlan, which implements Goal 12, identifies 1-5 (including the 1-5 bridge) as an existing transportation facility. .[ F I Determination of Significant Effect The TPR requires a determination of which existing and planned transportation facilities will experience a significant effect as a result of the proposed plan amendment, and defines what constitutes a significant effect. ' OAR 660-012-0060(1) Plan and Land Use Regulation Amendments I I As st~ted J.n the following findings, the plan amendments propose no significant effect on any planned or existing facilities under OAR 660-012-0060(1)(a), (b) or (c). OAR 660-0l2-0060(1) Plan and Land Use Regulation Amendments states the following: (1) Where an amendment to afunctional plan, an acknowledged comprehensive plan, or a land use regulation would significantly affect an existing or planned transportation facility, the local government shall put in place measures as provided in section (2) of this rule to assure that allowed land uses are consistent with the identified function, capacity, and performance standards (e.g. level of service, volume to capacity ratio, etc.) of the facility. A plan or land use regulation amendment significantly affects a transportation facility if it would: (a) Change the functional classification of an existing or planned transportation facility (exclusive of correction of map errors in ~n adopted plan); (b).. Change standards implementing afunctional classification system; or The proposed amendment will not change the functional classification of an existing or planned tranSportation facility or change the standards implementing a functional classification system. Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 21 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 24 (c) As measured at the end of the planning period identified in the adopted transportation system plan: (B) Reduce the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan; or \. : \.. . ]-: I . j.. . I (A) Allow land uses or levels of development that would result in types or levels of travel or access. that are inconsistent with the functional classification of an existing or planned transportation facility; (C) Worsen the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility that is otherwise projected to perform below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan. The proposed amendment will allow for the construction of bridges to replace existing bridge facilities that have been decommissioned as being structurally unsafe. The replacement bridges will be constructed in approximately the same location as the decommissioned bridge. Since 2004 (when the primary bridges were decommissioned as unsafe), a (temporary) detour bridge has provided 1-5 traffic access over the WilIamette River. Once the proposed bridges are constructed, existing traffic volumes ~urrently using the detour bridge will be shifted from the detour bridge to the new bridges. Construction of the proposed bridges will simply reroute traffic from the current detour bridge to the (permanent) replacement bridges allowed by the proposed amendment. 1 t. While the replacement bridges will be designed and constructed to accommodate six lanes of travel, because 1-5 is only four lanes, the bridges will be striped for four lanes. Until I-S is widened to six lanes, the bridges will remain striped for four lanes. Designing and constructing the bridges to allow for six lanes of travel is intended to accommodate future traffic needs traveling along 1-5; the additional I-S traffic will be generated by future development throughout the State of Oregon and, because 1-5 is a major interstate, throughout the United States. The construction of the replaeement bridges, whether striped for four lane or six lanes, does not generate any additional vehicular trips, it simply provides passage over the Willamette River. When the bridges are eventually striped for six lanes (to be made consistent with 1-5), the additional bridge capacity will increase the performance and function ofI-S, not worsen it. ,. Accordingly, the proposed amendment will not allow land uses or levels of development that will result in types or levels of travel or access that are inconsistent with the functional classification of an existing or planned transportation facility under OAR 660-0l2-0060(l)(c)(A). Further, the proposed amendments will not reduce the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan under (1)( c )(B), or worsen the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility that is otherwise projected to perform below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan under (1)( c )(C). Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 22 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 25 I I I For the reasons discussed above, the proposed amendment will not significantly affect an existing or planned transportation facility. OAR 660-012-0015 Preparation and Coordination of Transportation System Plans OAR 660~012~0015(1) directs ODOTtcfprepare and adopt a state transportation system plan that identifies a system of transportation facilities and services adequate to meet identified state transportation needs. The Oregon Transportation Commission has done that through adoption of the Oregon Transportation Plan (OTP) and modal plans, including the Oregon Highway Plan. The OTP includes policies to increase the efficient movement of people and goods for commerce and production of goods and services that is coordinated with regional and local plans~ It emphasizes managing the existing transportation system effectively and improving that system before adding new facilities. The OTP ~lso promotes a safe, efficient, and reliable freight system to support economic vitalitr. The OHP identifies 1-5 as an interstate highway within the state's roadway network. That highway necessarily includes a bridge over the Willamette River in Eugene/Springfield. OAR 660-012- . 001S(2) and (3) require that regional and local TSPs be consistent with the state TSP. Transplan currently recognizes the importance of I-S to the region. Because the replacement bridges are necessary to maintaining 1-5, by approving the proposed plan amendments, all plans will remain . consistent and the requirements of Goal 12 will be satisfied. '" Based on !he above findings, the proposal is consistent with Statewide Planning Goal l2. Goal l3 - Energy Conservation: To conserve energy. Statewide Planning Goall3 calls for land uses to be managed and controlled "so as to maximize the conservation of all forms of energy, based upon sound economic principles." Goall3 is directed at the development of local energy. policies and implementing provisions and does not state requirements with respect to other types of land use decisions. It is not clear that the goal has any bearing OIl a site-specific decision such as the one at issue. There is no implementing rule that clarifies the requirements of Goal l3. To the extent that Goal 13 could be applied to the proposed plan amendments, the proposal is consistent with Goal 13; the 1-5 Willamette Bridge project is located in the same location as the existing and previous bridges and will continue to make efficient use of energy with safe, direct and efficient access though the area. Comments were received that, in summary, the applicant fails to consider the conservation of energy by any means other than that of maximizing the efficiency of car and truck traffic. Specifically, failure to consider.any provision for incorporating bicycle traffic into the "crossing does not maximize the conservation of all forms of energy, particularly petroleum energy. However, given that Goal 13 is directed at developing local energy conservation policies, it is determined that Goall3 is not a means to require a specific project to add a bicycle and pedestrian component. Based on the findings above, the proposal is consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 13. Goal 14 - Urbanization: To provide for an orderly and efficient transition from rural to urban land Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 23 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 26 use. The amendments do not affect the transition from rural to urban land use, as the project area is centrally located to the Metro Plan and is entirely within the Eugene-Springfield UGB. Therefore, Statewide Planning Goal 14 does not apply. Goal 15 - Willamette River Greenway: To protect, conserve, enhance and maintain the natural, scenic, historical, agricultural, economic and recreational qualities of lands along the Willamette River as the Willamette River Greenway. Portions of the project area are within the boundaries of the Willamette River Greenway. As found under Goal 2 above, which is incorporated herein by reference, a goal 15 exception is required by, Policy D .11 of the Metro Plan and the applicant meets the requirements for an exception to Goal l5. Based on these findings, the proposal complies with Statewide Planning Goal 15 as excepted. Goall6 through 19 - Estuarine Resources. Coastal Shorelands. Beaches and Dunes. and Ocean Resources: There are no coastal, ocean, estuarine, or beach and dune resources related to the property affected by these amendments. Therefore, these goals are not relevant and the amendments will not ({[fect compliance with Statewide Planning Goals 16 through 19. I.. I... (b) Adoption of the amendment must not make the Metro Plan internally inconsistent. The applicant proposes to amend the Metro Plan text of Policy D .11 to allow the placement of fill within the Willamette River greenway for the construction of the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project. As found below, this text amendment will not create an internal conflict with the remainder of the Metro Plan. The applicant provided detailed findings intending to show how the Metro Plan text amendment is consistent with the policy direction contained in the Metro Plan. To the extent that they may be applicable, the applicant's findings are also incorporated herein by reference. I r- The following Metro Plan polices are applicable to this request: B. Economic Element B.18 Encourage the development of transportation facilities which would improve access fo industrial and commercial areas and improve freight movement capabilities by implementing the policies and projects in the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area Transportation Plan (I'ransPlan) and the Eugene Airport Master Plan. While the expressed language of this policy may not be mandatory, the applicant's findings are provided as further support for the proposed amendments. Replacing the decommissioned 1-5 Willamette River bridge with two new bridges, and associated improvements, will maintain the access, mobility, and freight movement capabilities that the decommissioned bridge and temporary detour bridge have provided. By ensuring mobility is maintained along the interstate highway system through Eugene and Springfield, the replacement bridges will help provide convenient Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 24 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 27 I I. I I I I access to industrial and commercial areas on connecting roads consistent with this policy. C. Environmental Resources Element C.8 Local governments shall develop plans and programs which carefully manage development on hillsides and in water bodies, and restrict development in wetlands in order to prevent erosion and protect the scenic quality, surface water and groundwater quality, forest values, vegetation, and wildlife values of those areas. \ I I . C.9 Each city shall complete a separate study to meet its requirements under the Goal 5 Rule for wetlands, riparian corridors, and wildlife habitat within the UGB. Lane County and the respective city jointly will adopt the inventory and protection measures for the area outside the city limits and inside the UGB, C.10 Local governments shall encourage further study (by specialists) of endangered and threatened plant and wildlife species in the metropolitan area. C.11 Local governments shall protect endangered and threatened plant and wildlife species, as recognized on a legally adopted statewide list, after notice and opportunity for public input. C.23 Design and construction of new noise-sensitive development in the vicinity of existing and future streets and highways with potential to exceed general highway noise levels shall include consideration of mitigating measures, such as acoustical building modifications, noise barriers, and acoustical site planning. The application of these mitigating measures must be balanced with other design considerations and hoUsing costs. I'. I I I I I. These policies are directed to the local govenunents of Eugene, Springfield and Lane County and not necessarily the applicant. However, they are applicable to the extent that the cities of Eugene and Springfield and Lane County have adopted regulations to protect these resources, and that the applicant will be required to apply for applicable permits pursuant to those local requirements (Eugene's Willamette Greenway permit and Water Resources Conservation Overlay Zone, and Springfield's 75-riparian setback review). Comments were also received regarding the noise abatement walls and limiting noise from the project. Since the project is not a "new noise-sensitive development in the vicinity of existing and futures streets and highways..." but is rather the reverse, a highway in the vicinity of existing .residential development, this policy is not applicable. Furthermore, the highway is replacing an 'existing highway in approximately the same location. In the event that this policy is found applicable, the applicant's findings are incorporated to demonstrate consistency. As previously discussed under Goal 6 above, a project noise technical report was prepared as part of the Environmental Assessment (as required by NEP A) to analyze potential noise impacts resulting from the project. Per the ODOTNoise Manual (June 1996) analysis procedures, noise mitigation measures were evaluated to reduce noise levels to nearby residences as a resuItofthe project. Noise walls were determined to meet the ODOT effectiveness and cost-effectiveness criteria in two locations and are recommended as mitigation (see supplemental information, Figures 7-9). The final Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 25 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 28 T-~- __w._nn_ __n --.. --- ---~~--- -- \.. wall locations will be determined after public input is completed as part of the NEP A process. Additionally, as stated on page l3 of the written statement, the applicant proposes the following general measures: . Continue public involvement through design and construction . limit work hours · .. limit noise Based on these findings, this policy is satisfied. C.26 Local Governments shall continue to monitor, to plan for, and to enforce applicable air and water quality standards and shall cooperate in meeting applicable federal, state and local . air and water quality standards. As previously stated under Goal 6, which is incorporated herein by reference, it is not anticipated that the replacement bridges will have a permanent adverse impact on air quality as the bridges are replacing an existing bridge. The applicant is proposing several measures including site prep~ation, site construction, coordination and post development measures discussed under Metro Plan Policy E.2, which is incorporated herein by reference, to reduce and mitigate impacts to water quality, consistent with this policy. In addition, water quality impacts will be further reviewed for compliance with local standards under the local permitting process forWillamette Greenway permit, Water Resources Conservation Overlay Zone and the 75-foot riparian setback and under the NEP A Environmental Assessment, subject to applicable requirements. C.30 Except as otherwise allowed according to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulations, development shall be prohibited in jloodways if it could result in an increased jlood level. The floodway is the channel of a river or other water course and III-C-16 the adjacent land area that must be reserved to discharge a one-percent-chance flood in any given year. C.31 When development is allowed to occur in the floodway or floodway fringe, local regulations shall control such development in order to minimize the potential danger to life and property. Within the UGB, development should result in in-filling of partially developed land Outside the UGB, areas affected by the floodway andjloodway fringe shall be protected for their agricultural and sand and gravel resource values, their open space and recreational potential, and their value to water resources. C.32 Local governments shall require site-specific soil surveys and geologic studies where potential problems exist. When problems are identified, local governments shall require special design considerations and construction measures be taken to offset the soil and geologic constraints present, to protect life and property, public investments, and environmentally-sensitive areas. Regarding Policy C.30 and C.31, as discussed under Statewide Planning Goal 7, Natural Hazards, which is incorporated herein by reference, the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project is partially located within a FEMA designated regulatory floodway and floodplain. Therefore, the design of the replacement bridge must satisfy the regulations set forth in the National Flood Insurance Program Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 26 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 29 (NFIP). The NFIP requires that any modifications that cause a rise in the Base Flood Elevations (BFEs, which corresponds to water surface elevations associated 'with the 100-year flood event) must be approved by FEMA.. The no-rise condition is also a requirement of ODOT for any bridge replacement project. I I . I I I. . I.'. . I I ... Consistent With C.31, both Eugene and Springfield have adopted ordinances regulating construction within floedplains and floodways; City of Eugene FEMA "no-rise" certification for any construction or structures within floodways/special flood hazard areas; and City of Springfield Type I permit to allow any construction in the floodplains or floodways within Springfield. Comments from the Eugene Floodplain Manager note that a FEMA no-rise certificate would only be required through the City of Eugene for construction (fill) or structures within the floodway or floodplain that are outside of the right-of-way. The proposal includes temporary staging areas outside of the ODOT right-of-way; portions of the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands, and ODOT and Lane County property both located southeast of 1-5 and the Willamette River. For these areas, prior to any fill or other development within the regulatory floodway, ODOT will be required to obtain a "no-rise" certification stating that the development will not impact the pre-project (before the temporary bridge) base flood elevation elevations, floodway elevations and floodway data widths. This certification must be signed by a professional engineer and supported by technical data consistent with current FEMA standards. I I.: I I Based on the preliminary modeling, the proposed pier location options would result in the following; Option A would result in an increase of 0.02 feet over existing conditions for the lOO- year flood. event and, Option B would result in a decrease of 0.54 feet for the 100- year flood event. Option B, including a decrease in base flood elevation, is consistent with the no-rise and Policies C.30 and C.3l. Option A's preliminary analysis shows an increase of 0.02 base flood elevation, which does not meet the no-rise requirement. However, a detailed no-rise analysis has not been submitted and the modeling will be run again to meet the no-rise requirement when the design is refined for the permitting process. Furthermore, ODOT requires its bridges to meet the no-rise requirement. Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, these policies are met. Specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local and state permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. \. .~~ Regarding Policy C.32, as noted under Goal 7, portions of the proJect area proposed for temporary staging areas are identified as moderate hazard risk areas on the map identifying Relative Slope Instability Hazards in Eugene. However, while this information may guide the City in adopting code revisions, it does not apply directly to land use applications as it is not adopted as refinement plan or as codified land use criteria. Additionally, based on the earthquake hazard, geotechnical investigations can be completed prior to construction to determine the best method to seat foundations, piers, .and bents to reduce effects related to earthquakes (e.g., lateral spread, liquefaction). In addition, slopes can be constructed in a manner that reduces the potential for erosion or small landslides. Based on the findings above, in the context of a plan amendment, the proposed plan amendments are consistent with these policies. D. Willamette River Greenway. River Corridors. and Waterways Element Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 27 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 30 :j:;. D.9 Local and state governments shall continue to provide adequate public access to the Willamette River Greenway. The applicant proposes that the public access connecting to the Willamette River Greenway will continue to be provided throughODOT's right-of-way under the 1-5 bridges, therefore public access. to the Willamette River Greenway will not be permanently affected. As noted under Goal 8 Recreational Need above, which is incorporated herein by reference, a continuous route across ODOT right-of-way for the bicycle/pedestrian pathways will be maintained on both the north and the south sides of the river during construction (written statement, page 61, Willakenzie Area Plan, Neighborhood Design Element- Willamette Greenway, Use Management Standard 2). Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, this policy is met. Additionally, these specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject1:o applicable approval criteria and related standards. I:':". ,,. - ....\ I: .. I .. I ,. . [:- .\ l- I . D.ll The taking of an exception shall be required if a non-water-dependent transportation facility requires placing of fill within the Willamette River Greenway setback An exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approvedfor Oregon Department o/Transportation (ODOT) 1-5 right of way crossing the Willdmette River and within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line, for purpose of constrt2cting a temporary detour bridge! implementing the conditions imposed on the Discretionary Use Approval (Springfield Journal SHR 2003-00115) and removing the temporary detour bridge after completion of the permanent replacement bridge. This exception satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(5) WiZlamette Greenway; the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2, Part II(c) for a 'reasons! exception; and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to the Metro Plan text, Policy #D.l1! ChapterlI!, Section D. As discussed under Gqal2 above, in accordance with Policy D.ll, the applicant is requesting an exception to Goal l5 for reasons outlined under OAR 660-004-0022. An exception is warranted per the standards set forth in OAR 660-004-0020. Therefore, the above Metro Plan text for Policy D.lI must be amended to acknowledge this Goal 15 exception. Accordingly, the following text amendment is proposed, with old text struek out and new text in bold: An exception to State~y\ide Plar~ing Goa1l5 Vlillamette River Greelry~lay ,vas approved for Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOn I 5 right ofvy~ay crossing the Willamelte Riyer aflG vlithin the Willamette Ri"y~er Greenvy'ay Setback Line, for parpose of constructing a temporary detour bridge, implementing the conditions imposed on the Discretionary Use ol^..pproval (Springfield Journal SHR 2003 00115) and remo";ing the temporary detour bridge after completion of the permanent replacement bridge. This eXGeptioll satisfies the criteria of Oregon ol\dministrative Rule (Ool\R) 660 004 0022(5) Vlillamette GreelrNay; the eJCeeption requiremems ofO:.\R 660 004 0020 Goal 2, Part n(e) for a 'reasons' exception; and plKSuant'tO O:.^..R 660 001 0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to the Metro Plan text, Policy tlD.ll, Chapter III, ~ection D. . Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 28 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 31 An exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approved fot Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for purposes of removing and replacing the decommissioned 1-5 bridge, the temporary detour bridge and the Canoe Canal bridge with two new parallel bridges (one southbound and one northbound) within the 1-5 right-of-way crossing the Willamette River and Canoe Canal and within . theWilla-DietteRiver.Greenway Setback Line. The exception authorizes construction and later removal of one or more temporary work bridges; demolition of the decommissioned 1-5 Willamette River Bridge, Canoe Canal Bridge, and detour bridges; construction of the two replacement bridges; reconstruction of the roadway approaches to the bridges (1-5 a.nd ramps); rehabilitation of the project area; and completion of any required mitigation of project impacts. In association with these tasks,. the exception further authorizes within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line tbe addition and removal of fill within ODOT right-of-way aDd the removal of fill within a temporary slope easement east of 1-5. This exception satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(6), Willamette Greenway, and the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2 Part II(c) for a "reasons" exception, and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as aD amendment to th~ Metro Plan text, Policy D.ll, Chapter 111, Section D. I t .1. - ! j". I- I I. I' I i I i I- t. I The proposed text amendment replaces the stand-alone paragraph under Policy D.ll regarding the temporary bridge. The applicant's proposed Metro Plan text amendment to Policy D.1l is adequate and with this text amendment and Goall5 exception granted under Goal 2 above, Policy D .ll will be satisfied. E. Environmental Design Element E.2 Natural vegetation, natural water features, and drainage-ways shall be protected and retained to the maximum extent practical. Landscaping shall be utilized to enhance those natural features. Thispolicy does not preclude increasing their conveyance capacity in an environmentally responsible manner. Bridge construction and demolition, including construction and removal of associated temporary work platforms, will impact riparian vegetation within the greenway. Construction is proposed within existing ODOT rights-of-ways and easements, with the exception of temporary staging areas. As discussed above under Goal 8 Recreational Need~ removal of the detour bridges will include removal of fill material from and rehabilitation of a portion of the Whilamut Natural Area. ODOT has obtained a temporary easement to do this work which requires rehabilitation of the area within 5 years of completion of the permanent bridges. Construction best management practices will be implemented to minimize the effects of construction activities. Disturbed areas will be restored and ODOT will work with the community throughout the design and construction process to get input and advice on ways to avoid and minimize environmental impacts. . \. According to the applicant, a species list provided by ORNHIC (Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center) indicates that there are no federal or state-listed Endangered Species Act (ESA) Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 29 -- ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 32 I , I 'terrestrial wildlife species known to reside within the project area. There are no knovvn federal or state ESA -listed plant species or plant habitats have been identified within the project area. Two salmonid populations listed under the ESA are documented as occurring within the reach of the Willamette River that flows through the project area: . Upper Willametle River spring Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and critical habitat - federally.threatened.:...:. FT. . . Columbia River bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and critical habitat - FT. ! I I.. k: \ .' I l'.~'i .::,...... ...;:~ .r' ;. ....:... ODOT will coordinate with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife through the design process to identify opportunities to minimize habitat disturbance. To avoid and minimize potential impacts to fish and wildlife species habitat during and after construction activities, all applicable OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program EPS will be implemented to reduce the extent of direct and indirect impacts to habitat. These include: . . Minimize effects to natural stream and floodplain by keeping the work area to the smallest footprint needed. . . Prepare and implement a plan to prevent construction debris from dropping into the Willamette River and to remove materials that may drop with a minimum disturbance to aquatic habitat. . Prepare site restoration plans for upland, wetland, and streambank areas to' include native plant species and noxious weed abatement techniques, and use large wood and rock as components of streambed protection treatments. . Flag boundaries of clearing limits and sensitive.areas to be avoided during constructi9n. . Coordinate with Willamalane Park and Recreation District and the Eugene Parks and Open Space Division regarding sensitive areas in the Whilamut Natural Area and Eastgate Woodlands that should be avoided during construction. . Restore and revegetate disturbed areas. t.: j., j. I I . I: ,. I j i I I:' I' ODOT also proposes (written statement, page 13) to avoid, minimize and/or mitigate impacts of this project, consistent with this policy, by utilizing the following general measures amongst others: · Continue public involvement through design and construction . Plan traffic management to keep all travel modes open and safe during construction . Limit work hours · Restore/enhance affected areas . Limit project noise Public comment was received expressing support for these measures, especially limiting project noise and work hours, especially for pile driving activities. In additio~ specific design details will be reviewed and conditioned to minimize environmental impacts during federal and local permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. The applicant proposes that the project will meet the OTIA III Environmental Performance Standards (EPS) in order to satisfy the requirements of the programmatic Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 30 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 33 I .1.. I.: I. environmental permits that apply to the statewide bridge program. These performance standards define the level of effect that a project may have upon the environment, thereby limiting or avoiding impacts to the environment through the use of proper planning, design, and construction activities. To avoid fish and wildlife. species and minimize temporary impacts from construction activities, all applicable OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program EPS will be implemented to reduce the extent of direct and indirect impacts to fish and wildlife species. Effects to water resources during construction and operation of the project will be minimized through the implementation of applicable mitigation measures in the OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program EPS. It is noted that with regard to pier locations shown on page 9 of the application, Option B indicates a pier closer to the Mill Race~ while Option A shows a pier closer to the. Willamette River, however, no specific design is being .reviewed at this time in the context of a plan amendment. Local permitting processes include Willamette Greenway permit and Water Resources Conservation Overlay for Eugene, ~d a 75-foot riparian setback review for Springfield. Natural vegetation, natural water features; and drainage-ways shall be protected and retained to the maximum extent practical, consistent with these permitting processes. This adequately addresses protection of natural vegetation, natural water features, and drainage- ways in the context of the proposed plan amendments. Additionally, these specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. E.4 P;blic and private facilities shall be de;igned and located in a manner that preserves and enhances desirable features of local and neighborhood areas and promotes their sense of identity. The replacement bridges will be located within the same ODOT right-of-way where the decommissioned bridge is located, an area already utilized by transportation infrastructure. The proposal also includes a reduction in the total number of piers, a reduction in the number of piers in the Willarpette River, and review of bridge design options (based on aesthetic and budgetary considerations) through a separate public process; all of which should contribute to a positive visual impact, consistent with this policy. Additionally, impacted riparian.areas and other lands within the greenway setback will be protected during the later permitting process through the imposition of approval conditions as necessary to comply with applicable approval criteria and related standards. Specifics of the bridge design can be considered during the plan amendment process or, for Springfield, through the Discretionary Use Approval process as provided in SDC 3.3-32525.050 and 5.9-120. Conceptual designs are being addressed as part of the federal draft environmental process that precedes local land use decision- making~ Additionally, as noted above in the discussion of Statewide Planning Goal 1, the public is involved in this process. Among other things, ODOT established a Community .Advisory Group (CAG) composed of representatives of local neighborhood associations, parks departments (City of Eugene and Willamalane Park and Recreation District), the Citizen Planning Committee for the Whilamut Natural Area, chambers of commerce, and the University of Oregon that has been involved in the development of the project and will continue to be involved during selection of the bridge type, its design, and construction. Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 31 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 34 (c) As measured at the end of the planning period identified in the adopted transportation system plan: (B) Reduce the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan; or I. : \- . I :. I _ I \ (A) Allow land uses or levels of development that would result in types or levels of travel or access that are inconsistent with the functional classification of an existing or planned transportation facility; (C) Worsen the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility that is otherwise projected to perform below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan. The proposed amendment will allow for the constiuction of bridges to replace existing bridge facilities that have been decommissioned as being structurally unsafe. The replacement bridges will be constructed in approximately the same location as the decommissioned bridge. Since 2004 (when the primary bridges were decommissioned as unsafe), a (temporary) detour bridge has provided 1-5 traffic access over the Willamette River. Once the proposed bridges are constructed, existing traffic volumes ~urrently using the detour bridge will be shifted from the detour bridge to the new bridges. Construction of the proposed bridges will simply reroute traffic from the current detour bridge to the (permanent) replacement bridges allowed by the proposed amendment. t. While the replacement bridges will be designed and constructed to accommodate six lanes of travel, because 1-5 is only four lanes, the bridges will be striped for four lanes. Until 1-5 is widened to six lanes, the bridges will remain striped for four lanes. Designing and constructing the bridges to allow for six lanes of travel is intended to accommodate future traffic needs traveling along 1-5; the additional 1-5 traffic will be generated by future development throughout the State of Oregon and, because 1-5 is a major interstate, throughout the United States. The construction of the replacement bridges, whether striped for four lane or six lanes, does not generate any additional vehicular trips, it simply provides passage over the Willamette River. When the bridges are eventually striped for six lanes (to be made consistent with 1-5), the additional bridge capacity will increase the performance and function of 1-5, not worsen it. Accordingly, the proposed amendment will not allow land uses or levels of development that will result in types or levels of travel or access that are inconsistent with the functional classification of an existing or planned transportation facility under OAR 660-0 12-0060(l)(c)(A). Further, the proposed amendments will not reduce the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan under (l)( c )(B), or worsen the performance of an existing or planned transportation facility that is otherwise projected to perform below the minimum acceptable performance standard identified in the TSP or comprehensive plan under (l)(c)(C). Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 22 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 35 I I I . F or the reasons discussed above, the proposed amendment will not significantly affect an existing or planned transportation facility. OAR 660-012-0015 Preparation and Coordination -afTransportation System Plans OAR 660-012-00l5(l) directs OnaT to prepare and adopt a state transportation system plan that identifies a system of transportation facilities and services adequate to meet identified state transportation needs. The Oregon Transportation Commission has done that through adoption of the Oregon Transportation Plan (OTP) and modal plans, including the Oregon Highway Plan. The OTP includes policies to increase the efficient movement of people and goods for commerce and production of goods and services that is coordinated with regional and local plans. It emphasizes managing the existing transportation system effectively and improving that system before adding new facilities. . The OTP ~so promotes a safe, efficient, and reliable freight system to support economic vitality. The OHP identifies 1-5 as an interstate highway within the state's roadway network. That highway necessarily includes a bridge over the Willamette River in Eugene/Springfield. OAR 660-012- ..OOlS(2) and (3) require that regional and local TSPs be consistent with the state TSP. . Transplan currently recognizes the importance of I-S to the region. Because the replacement bridges are necessary to maintaining I-S, by approving the proposed plan amendments, all plans will remain consistent and the requirements of Goal 12 will be satisfied. I' Based on the above findings, the proposal is consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 12. Goal l3 - Energy Conservation: To conserve energy. Statewide Planning Goal 13 calls for land uses to be managed and controlled "so as to maximize the conservation of all forms of energy, based upon sound economic principles." Goal.l3 is directed at the development of local energy policies and implementing provisions and does not state requirements with respect to other types of land use decisions. It is not clear that the goal has any bearing 011 a site-specific decision such as the one at issue. There is no implementing rule that clarifies the requirements of Goal 13 . To the extent that Goal l3 could be applied to the proposed plan amendments, the proposal is consistent with Goal!3; the 1-5 Willamette Bridge project is located in the same location as the existing and previous bridges and will continue to make efficient use of energy with safe, direct and efficient access though the area Comments were received that, in summary, the applicant fails to consider the conservation of energy by any means other than that of maximizing the efficiency of car and truck traffic. Specifically, failure to consider any provision for incorporating bicycle traffic into the crossing does not maximize the conservation of all forms of energy, particularly petroleum energy. However, given that Goall3 is directed at developing local energy conservation policies, it is determined that 'Goall3 is not a means to require a specific project to add a bicycle and pedestrian component. Based on the findings above, the proposal is consistent with Statewide Planning Goal l3. Goall4 - Urbanization: To provide for an orderly and efficient transitiorzfrom rural to urban land Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 23 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 36 use. The amendments do not affect the transition from mral to urban land use, as the project ~ea is centrally located to the Metro Plan and is entirely within the Eugene~Springfield UGB. Therefore, Statewide Planning Goal 14 does not apply. Goal l5 - Willamette River Greenway: To protect, conserve, enhance and maintain the natural, scenic, historical, agricultural, economic and recreational qualities of lands along the Willamette River as the Willamette River Greenway. Portions of the project area are within the boundaries of the Willamette River Greenway. As found under Goal 2 above, which is incorporated herein by reference, a goal l5 exception is required by, Policy D.II of the Metro Plan and the applicant meets the requirements for an exception to Goal 15. Based on these findings, the proposal complies with Statewide Planning Goal IS as excepted. Goa1l6 through 19 - Estuarine Resources. Coastal Shorelands. Beaches and Dunes. and Ocean Resources: There are no coastal, ocean, estuarine, or beach and dune resources related to the property affected by these amendments. Therefore, these goals are not relevant and the amendments will not mfect compliance with Statewide Planning Goals l6 through 19. I.- I.... (b) Adoption of the amendment must not make the Metro Plan internally inconsistent. The applicant proposes to amend the Metro Plan text of Policy D .ll to allow the placement of fill within the Willamette River greenway for the construction of the 1-5 Willai:nette Bridge Project. As found below, this text amendment will not create an internal conflict with the remainder of the Metro Plan. The applicant provided detailed findings intending to show how the Metro Plan text amendment is consistent with the policy direction contained in the Metro Plan. To the extent that they may be applicable, the applicant's findings are also incorporated herein by reference. I r- The following Metro Plan polices are applicable to this request: B. Economic Element B.18 Encourage the development of transportation facilities which would improve access fo industrial and commercial areas and improve freight movement capabilities by implementing the policies and projects in the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area Transportation Plan (I'ransPlan) and the Eugene Airport Master ~lan. . While the expressed language of this policy may not be mandatory, the applicant's findings are provided as further support for the proposed amendments. Replacing the decommissioned 1-5 Willamette River bridge with two new bridges, and associated improvements, will maintain the access, mobility, and freight movement capabilities that the decommissioned bridge and temporary detour bridge have provided. By ensuring mobility is maintained along the interstate highway system through Eugene and Springfield, the replacement bridges will help pro~ide convenient Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 24 . ~ ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 37 I I. I I I access to industrial and commercial areas on connecting roads consistent with this policy. C.. Environmental Resources Element. C.8 Local governments shall develop plans and programs which carefully manage development on hillsides and in water bodies, and restrict development in wetlands in order to prevent erosion and protect the scenic quality, surface water and groundwater quality, forest values, vegetation, and wildlife values of those areas. C.9 Each city shall complete a separate study to meet its requirements under the Goal 5 Rule for wetlands, riparian corridors, and wildlife .habitat within the UGB. Lane County and the respective city jointly will adopt the inventory and protection measure~for the area outside the city limits and inside the UGB. C.lO Local governments shall encourage further study (by specialists) of endangered and threatened plant and wildlife species in the metropolitan area. C.11 Local governments shall protect endangered and threatened plant and wildlife species, as recognized on a legally adopted statewide list, after notice and opportunity for public input. C.23 Design and construction of new noise-sensitive development in the vicinity of existing and future streets and highways with potential to exceed general highway noise levels shall include consideration of mitigating measures, such as acoustical building modifications, noise barriers, and acoustical site planning. The application of these mitigating measures must be balanced with other design considerations and hoUsing costs. I'. I I I I t., These policies are directed to the local governments of Eugene, Springfield and Lane County and not necessarily the applicant. However, they are applicable to the extent that the cities of Eugene and Springfield and Lane County have adopted regulations to protect these resources, and that the applicant will be required to apply for applicable permits pursuant to those local requirements (Eugene's Willamette Greenway permit and Water Resources Conservation Overlay Zone, and Springfield's 75-riparian setback review). Comments were also received regarding the noise abatement walls and limiting noise from the project. Since the project is not a "new noise-sensitive development in ,the vicinity of existing and futures streets and highways..." but is rather the reverse, a highway in the vicinity of existing residential development, this policy is not applicable. Furthermore, the highway is replacing an existing highway in approximately the same location. In the event that this policy is found applicable, the applicant's findings are incorporated to demonstrate consistency. As previously discussed under Goal 6 above, a project noise technical report was prepared as part of the Environmental Assessment (as required by NEP A) to analyze potential noise impacts resulting from the project. Per the ODOT Noise Manual (June 1996) analysis procedures, noise mitigation measures were evaluated to reduce noise levels to nearby residences as a result of the project. Noise walls were determined to meet the OnOT effectiveness and cost-effectiveness criteria in two locations and are recommended as mitigation (see supplemental information, Figures 7-9). The final Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 25 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 38 wall locations will be deterni.ined after public input is completed as part of the NEP A process. Additionally, as stated on page 13 of the written statement, the applicant proposes the following general measures: . Continue public involvement through design and construction . limit work hours · limit noise '. Based on these findings, this policy is satisfied. C.26 Local Governments shall continue to monitor, to plan for, and to enforce applicable air and water quality standards and shall cooperate in meeting applicable federal, state and local air and water quality standards. As previously stated under Goal 6, which is incorporated herein by reference, it is not ~ticipated that the replacement bridges will have a permanent adverse impact on air quality as the bridges are replacing an existing bridge. The applicant is proposing several measures including site prep~ation, site construction, coordination and post development measures discussed under Metro Plan Policy E.2, which is incorporated herein by reference, to reduce and mitigate impacts to water quality, consistent with this policy. In addition, water quality impacts will be further reviewed for compliance with local standards under the local permitting process for Willamette Greenway permit, Water Resources Conservation Overlay Zone and the 75-foot riparian setback and under the NEP A Environmental Assessment, subject to applicable requirements. C.30 Except as otherwise allowed according to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regUlations, development shall be prohibited in jloodways if it could result in an increased jloodlevel. The jloodway is the channel of a river or other water course and III-C-16 the adjacent land area that must be reserved to discharge a one-percent-chance jlood in any given year. I C.31 When development is allowed to occur in the jloodway or jloodway fringe, local regulations shall control such development in order to minimize the potential danger to life and property. Within the UGB, development should result in in-filling of partially developed land Outside the UGB, areas affected by the jloodway andjloodway fringe shall be protected for their agricultural and sand and gravel resource values, their open space and recreational potential, and their value to water resources. C.32 Local governments shall require site-specific soil surveys and geologic studies where potential problems exist. . When problems are identified, local governments shall require special design considerations and construction measures be taken to offset the soil and geologic constraints present, to protect life and property, public investments, and environmentally-sensitive areas. Regarding Policy C.30 and C.31, as discussed under Statewide Planning Goal 7, Natural Hazards, which is incorporated herein by reference, the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Project is partially located within a FEMA designated regulatory floodway and floodplain. Therefore, the design of the replacement bridge must satisfy the regulations set forth in the National Flood Insurance Program Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 26 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 39 (NFIP). The NFIP requires that any modifications that cause a rise in the Base Flood Elevations (BFEs, which corresponds to water surface elevations associated with the.l OO-year flood event) must be approved by FEMA. The no-rise condition is also a requirement of ODOT for any bridge replacement project. I I ! . I t I.... I I Consistent with C.31, both Eugene and Springfield have adopted ordinances regulating construction within fl06dplains and floodways; City of Eugene FEMA "no-rise" certification for any construction or structures within floodways/special flood hazard areas; and City of Springfield Type I permit to allow any construction in the floodplains or floodways within Springfield. Comments from the Eugene Floodplain Manager note that a FEMA no-rise certificate would only be required through the City of Eugene for construction (fill) or structures within the floodway or floodplain that are outside of the right-of-way. The proposal includes temporary staging areas outside of the ODOT right-of-way; portions of the Whilamut Natural Area and EastgateWoodlands, and ODOT and Lane County property both located southeast of 1-5 and the Willamette River. For these areas, prior to any fill or other development within the regulatory floodway, ODOT will be required to obtain a "no-rise" certification stating that the development will not impact the pre-project (before the temporary bridge) base flood elevation elevations, floodway elevations and floodway data widths. This certification must be signed by a professional engineer and supported by technical data consistent with current FEMA standards. I. I Based on the preliminary modeling, the proposed pier location options would result in the following; Option A would result in an increase of 0.02 feet over existing conditions for the lOO- year flood. event and, Option B would result in a decrease of 0.54 feet for the lOO- year flood event. Option B, including a decrease in base flood elevation, is consistent with the no-rise and Policies C.30 and C.3l. Option A's preliminary analysis shows an increase of 0.02 base flood elevation, which does not meet the no-rise requirement. However, a detailed no-rise analysis has not been submitted and the modeling will be run again to meet the no-rise requirement when the design is refined for the permitting process. Furthermore, ODOT requires its bridges to meet the no-rise requirement. Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, these policies are met. Specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local and state permitting processes, subject to applicable approval criteria and related standards. I. .~~ Regarding Policy C.32, as noted under Goal 7, portions of the project area proposed for temporary staging areas are identified as moderate hazard risk areas on the map identifying Relative Slope Instability Hazards in Eugene. However, while this information may guide the City in adopting code revisions, it does not apply directly to land use applications as it is not adopted as refinement plan or as codified land use criteria. Additionally, based on the earthquake hazard, geotechnical investigations can be completed prior to construction to determine the best method to seat foundations, piers, and bents to reduce effects related to earthquakes (e.g., lateral spread, liquefaction). In addition, slopes can be constructed in a manner that reduces the potential for erosion or small landslides. Based on the findings above, in the context of a plan amendment, the proposed plan amendments are consistent with these policies. D. Willamette River Greenway. River Corridors. and Waterways Element Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 27 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 40 ;,:;. i. *:i ....~ . '. D.9 Local and state governments shall continue to provide adequate public access to the Wil/amette River Greenway. . ..~. . .: - I: The applicant proposes that the public access connecting to the Willamette River Greenway will continue to be provided through ODOT's"right-of-way under the 1-5 bridges, therefore public access. to the Willamette River Greenway will not be permanently affected. As noted under Goal 8 Recreational Need above, which is incorporated herein by reference, a continuous route across ODOT right-of-way for the bicycle/pedestrian pathways will be maintained on both the north and the south sides of the river during construction (written statement, page 6l, Willakenzie Area Plan, Neighborhood Design Element- Willamette Greenway, Use Management Standard 2). Therefore, in the context of a plan amendment, this policy is met. Additionally, these specific construction and operational details will be appropriately addressed during local permitting processes, subject1:o applicable approval criteria and related standards. !:.'.: ; . j:- .1 f I . D.11 The taking of an exception shall be required if a non-water-dependent transportation facility requires placing of fill within the Willamette River Greenway setback An exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approvedfor Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) 1-5 right of way crossing the Willdmette River and within the Wil/amette River Greenway Setback Line, for purpose of constracting a temporary detour bridge, implementing the conditions imposed on the Discretionary Use Approval (Springfield Journal SHR 2003-00115) and removing the temporary detour bridge. after completion of the permanent replacement bridge. This exception satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(5) Willamette Greenway; the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2, Part II(c) for a 'reasons' exception; and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to the Metro Plan text, Policy #D.11, Chapter IlL Section D. As discussed under Goal 2 above, in accordance with Policy D.ll, the applicant is requesting an exception to Goal 15 for reasons outlined under OAR 660-004-0022. An exception is warranted per the standards set forth in OAR 660-004-0020. Therefore, the above Metro Plan text for Policy D.II must be amended to acknowledge this Goal 15 exception. Accordingly, the following text amendment is proposed, with old text struck 01:1t and new text in bold: i\n exception to State~"vide Planning Goal 15 'Nillamette River Green~liay v,,'as approved f{)r Oregon Department of TraflsportatioB (ODaT) I .5 right of v.~y crossing the ~Tillamette Ri~;er and v:ithin the Willamette River Green~Nay Setback Line, for pl:H'pose of constructing a tempofary detour bridge, implementing the conditions imposed on the Disei"etionary Use ,,^..pproyal (Springfield Journal SHR 2003 00115) and removing the temporary detour bridge after completion of the permanent replacement bridge. This exception satisfies the 0l'iteria of Oregon f..dministrative Rale (O:t\R) 660 001 0022(5) Willamette Gt'een....:ay; the exception requirements efai\R. 660 001 0020 Goal 2, Part II(c) for a 'reasons' exception; and p1:JfSl:lant to a..\R 660 001 0015, is hereby adopted as an amen.dment to the ~1:etro Plan teKt, Policy #D.l1, Chapter III, Seetion D. . Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 28 ATTACHMENT A - PAGE 41 An exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 Willamette River Greenway was approved fo! Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for purposes of removing and replacing the decommissioned 1-5 bridge, the temporary detour bridge and the Canoe Canal bridge with two new parallel bridges (one southbound and. one northbound) within the 1-5 right-of-way crossing the Willamette River and Canoe Canal and within the Willamette River. Greenway Setback Line. The exception authorizes construction and later removal of one or more temporary work bridges; demolition of the decommissioned 1-5 Willamette River Bridge, Canoe Canal Bridge, and detour bridges; construction of the two replacement bridges; reconstruction of the roadway approaches to the bridges (1-5 and ramps); rehabilitation of the project area; and completion of any required mitigation of project impacts. In association with these tasks, the exception further authorizes within the Willamette River Greenway Setback Line the addition and removal of fill within ODOT right-of-way and the removal of fill within a temporary slope easement east of 1-5. This.exception satisfies the criteria of Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-004-0022(6), Willamette Greenway, and the exception requirements of OAR 660-004-0020 Goal 2 Part II (c) for a "reasons" exception, and pursuant to OAR 660-004-0015, is hereby adopted as an amendment to th~ Metro Plan text, Policy D.ll,'Chapter 111, Section D. I : I E. Environmental Design Element t I., I r. I' I. I" I I I t.. t. I The proposed text amendment replaces the stand-alone paragraph under Pol~cy D.ll regarding the temporary bridge. The applicant's proposed Metro Plan text amendment to Policy D.1l is adequate and with this text amendment and Goall5 exception granted under Goal 2 above, Policy D .11 will be satisfied. E.2 Natural vegetation, natural water features, and drainage-ways shall be protected and retained to the maximum extent practical. Landscaping shall be utilized to enhance those natural features. This policy do~s not preclude increasing their conveyance capacity in an environmentally responsible manner. Bridge construction and demolition, including construction and removal of associated temporary work platforms, will impact riparian vegetation within the greenway. Construction is proposed within existing ODOT rights-of-ways and easements, with the exception of temporary staging areas. As discussed above under Goal 8 Recreational Need, removal of the detour bridges will include removal of fill material from and rehabilitation of a portion of the Whilamut Natural Area. ODOT has obtained a temporary easement to do this work which requires rehabilitation of the area within 5 years of completion of the permanent bridges. Construction best management practices will be implemented to minimize the effects of construction activities. Disturbed areas will be restored and ODOT will work with the community throughout the design and construction process to get input and advice on ways to avoid and minimize environmental impacts. . According to the applicant, a species list provided by ORNHIC (Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center) indicates that there are no federal or state-listed Endangered Species Act (ESA) Staff Findings - June 2008 Page 29 ATTACHMENT A - PA~E_~2__. Project area City limits III Parks /V" Right-of-Way. /\/ Right-of-Way easement ~ Highways /'\/ Major roads 1.lllO a Foar ~ Figure 2 Project Area 1-5 Willamette Riyer Bridge Project A!TACHMENT B - PAGElu-- @ Rebuilt roadways ~ Replacement bridges /'.../ Potential wall locations /'../ Toes to slope .. Willamette River Greenway o 230 480 eeo 92J1eel fa ~~k~ -- J:S.... .~~ ,. egu Figure J Location of Proposed RepJacement Bddges 1-5 \Yillnmette Rk'e.' Blidge Pro'ect Plan Amendment Request 2/01/2008 7 ATTACHMENT B - PAGE 2 EUGENE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY c . Public Hearing: An Ordinance Amending the Eugene~Springfield Metro Plan Text; . Anlending the Willakenzie Area Plan Text; Adopting an Exception to Statewide Planning (roal 15 Willamette River Greenway; Adopting Severability and Savings Clauses; and P:roviding an Effective Date (1-5 Willamette Bridge Project, Eugene files MA 07-3, RA 08-1; Springfield file LRP2007-00010; Lane County file PA08-5230) Meeting Date: June 24,2008 Department: Planning and Development WlVW. eugene-or.gov Agenda Item Number: A Staff Contact: Heather O'Donnell Contact Telephone Number: 541/682-5488 ISSUE STATEMENT This joint public hearing with the Eugene and Springfield City Councils and the Lane County Board of Commissioners is on a private proposal to amend the Metro Plan, including an exception to Statewide Planning Goall5, and amend the Willakenzie Area Plan (W AP) (Eugene decision only). The anlendments would allow replacement of the 1-5 Willamette River and canoe canal bridges and associated construction to occur within the Willamette Greenway, subsequent to future land use application approval. BACKGROUND The 1-5 Willamette Bridge Replacement Project is proposed within the Oregon Department of Ttansportation right-of-way, as well as on property owned by the City of Eugene, Willamalane Park and Recreation District, and Lane County. The project area includes the 1-5 Willamette.River Bridge and encompasses an area to the north between the Willamette River and Centennial Boulevard, also extending south of the Willamette River between Franklin Boulevard and the Glenwood Interchange (Exit l87). The project area is within the Eugene-Springfield UGB, and is more specifically shown on th~ Project Area map (Attachment G). The applicant requests approval of the following for the 1-5 Willamette Bridge Replacement Project: to anlend the text of Policy D.i 1 of the Metro Plan to allow for the placement offill in the Willamette River Greenway and to allow for a goal exception to Statewide Planning Goal 15 (Willamette River Greenway) to authorize a nonwater-dependent, nonwater-related use within the Willamette River Greenway setback; and to amend the text of the W AP to allow for the placement of fill within 35 feet from the top of the bank of the Willamette River (Eugene decision only). This request does not include a specific development proposal. On the federal level, ODOT is required to process the necessary applications in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEP A). On the local level, separate land use applications will be required for the actual bridge design, including a Willamette GJreenway Permit and Standards Review (regarding Goal 5 setback) for Eugene and a 75-foot riparian setback review for Springfield (see last pages of Attachment E for project timeline and process). L:\CM0\2008 Council Agendas\M080624\S080624A.doc __ _ ATTACHMENT C -PAGE-I- The Eugene, Springfield and Lane County Planning Commissions held a joint public hearing on April 29: 2008, to consider the requested Metro Plan amendment and refmement plan amendment. Aside from the applicant's party, there were two other people who spoke; one spoke as neutral to the proposal and one spoke against it. Written testimony was received (Attachment E) from the applicant. Per the request of 'those testifying, the Planning Commissions also left the public record open. Evidence submitted during the open record period is also attached for reference (AttachmentE). On June 3,2008, the Pla.nning Commissions met for joint deliberations on the Metro Plan amendment request. All three Planning Commissions voted unanimously to recommend approval of the Metro Plan amendment, including the exception to Statewide Planning Goall5. On the same night, the Eugene Planning Commission deliberated on the refmement plan amendment request and unanimously voted to recommend approval. The Planning Commission's fmdings and recommendations are attached to this AI:; as Exhibit A of Attachment A for the Metro Plan amendment, and Exhibits A and B of Attachment B for the refinement plan amendment. The proposed Metro Plan and refmement plan amendments are being reviewed concurrently. ~egarding process, the Metro Plan and refinement plan amendments requests must follow the quasi-judicial procedures. New evidence will be allowed at the public hearing. Since the close of the joint Planning Conlmission record, only one item of testimony has been received. This item was submitted to staff at the Planning Commission deliberations but was not considered by the Planning Commissions (Attachment C). Approval of a plan amendment requires the City to adopt an ordinance. Approval of a three- jurisdictional Metro Plan amendment requires the jurisdictions to adopt identical decisions. To comply with.the Charter requirements for ordinances, a draft ordinance approving the requested Metro Plan aml~ndments has been prepared and is attached for your reference (Attachment A). Because the refinement plan amendment is a Eugene decision only, a separate draft ordinance approving the requested refmement plan amendments has also been prepared and is attached for reference (Attachment B). The Planning Commission's fmdings of approval, which provide a detailed analysis of the proposal's compliance with applicable approval criteria, are attached to each draft ordinance as Exhibit A (Metro Plan fmdings) and Exhibit B (refmement plan fmdings). These are identified as general findings so that the council can amend or adopt as it determines necessary. This ordinance, with any directed changes, will be utilized in the event that the City Council makes positive fmdings that the proposed amendments comply with the applicable approval criteria. RELATED CITY POLICIES Eugene Code requires that a Metro Plan amendment and refmement plan amendment be consistent with the Metro Plan, the applicable refmement plans, as well as the Statewide Planning Goals. The Metro Plan, Willakenzie Area Plan, Laurel Hill Plan, River Front Park Study, and TransPlan policies applicable to this request are addressed in the Planning Commission's findings and recommendation (Exhibit A of Attachment A and Exhibits A and B of Attachment B). COUNCIL OPTIONS ThiB is scheduled for a public hearing only. At the time of deliberations and action, the City Council may consider the following options: L:\CM0\2008 Council Agendas\M080624\S080624A.doc ATTACHMENT C - PAGE 2 l. Adopt the proposed ordinance 2. Adopt the proposed ordinance with specific modifications as determined by the City Council 3. Deny the proposed ordinance CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION .. - -.. This is scheduled for a public hearing only. Following .the City's receipt.ofall evidence, prior to council de]liberations, the City Manager will make a recommendation to be included in the council packet for action on this item. Separate Eugene City Council deliberation and action on this item is currently . scheduled for July 28, 2008. SUGGESTED MOTION No motion is suggested as deliberation and action is currently scheduled for July 28,2008. AlLTACHMENTS * A. Draft Metro Plan Amendment Ordinance with Exhibits A: Exhibit A: Metro pOlan Findings, dated June 2008 B. Draft Refmement Plan Amendment Ordinance with Exhibits A and B: Exhibit A: Metro Plan Findings, dated June 2008 Exhibit B: Refinement Plan Amendment Findings, dated June 2008 C. Vicinity Maps D. "Peak Traffic" article received prior to June 3, 2008 meeting E. Eugene Planning Commission Agenda, Agenda Item Summary, and Draft Eugene Planning Commission Meeting Minutes for June 3, 2008 deliberations l. Public testimony received after the April 29, 2008 public hearing through close of record for new evidence on May l3, 2008 2. Exhibits submitted at April 29, 2008 joint Public Hearing: Exhibit l: Applicant's agenda and graphics Exhibit 2: Applicant's memorandum regarding noise dated April 28, 2008 3. . Draft Eugene Planning Commission Meeting Minutes for June 3, 2008 deliberations F. Draft Eugene Planning Commission Meeting Minutes, dated April 29, 2008 G. Eugene Planning Commission Agenda and Agenda Item Summary for April 29, 2008 deliberations, with attachments: l. Metro Plan Amendment Preliminary Staff Findings 2. Refmement Plan Amendment Preliminary Staff Findings .3. Vicinity Maps (including Project Area boundary map) 4. Letters of Public Testimony received through Aprill7, 2008 H. Applicant's supplemental materials including: Supplemental fmdings dated March 28, 2008 Errata Sheet received February 26,2008 Map showing property ownership received March 20, 2008 I. Applicant's Metro Plan and Refinement Plan Amendment application materials including: Written statements with reduced maps received February 1 and 25, 2008 Application forms received February l, 2008 (~: These attachments are not included in the Springfield Council packet. The attachments can be viewed in their entirety (659 pages) in the City Manager's Office.) L:\CM0\2008 Council Agendas\M080624\S080624A.doc ATTACHMENT C - PAGE 3 FOR MORE INFORMATION Staff Contact: Heather O'Donnell TeJlephone: 541/682-5488 . Staff E-Mail: heather.m.odonnell@ci.eugene.or.us L:\CM0\2008 Council Agendas\M080624\S080624A.doc ATTACHMENT C - PAGE 4