RES 06035 - Laserfiche WebLink

Draft Environmental Impact Report Bernal Property Phase II Specific Plan From both viewpoints 4 and 5, a stronger sense of the CAC as a com- plex rather than a monolithic structure emerges, Its clustered shapes would give the complex architectural interest as well as communicate the variety of activities the CAC would accommodate; at the same time, the visual effect is less imposing than would be the case with a single large shape, Taking into account the fact that, even at the close range of viewpoint 5, Pleasanton Ridge remains the stronger visual element in the scene, the view from this perspective supports the conclusion that the CAC would not have an adverse effect on scenic vistas, This viewpoint analysis addresses only one potential constructed element of the number that may eventually be constructed on the site under the Phase II Specific Plan, but it is the largest, and it is conceived as a landmark, The fact that, in this setting, in the complex form in which the CAC is represented in these simulations, it does not appear unduly large or dominant over the landscape, suggests that the other buildings that may be built would also blend into the visual setting, Since the simulations do not show the kind of land forms (low mounds) and landscaping (considerable tree canopy) that would be an integral part of the site development, it is reasonable to conclude that the visual impact of the CAC (and other structures) would be considerably less even than these initial simulations show, This visual criterion relates to landscaping as well as to structures, given the possibility that vegetation on the site could obscure important scenic vistas, The Specific Plan Land Use Element (Open Space Policy 1, p, 20) calls for siting community facilities along Bernal Avenue and 1-680 to achieve a pleasing open view into the site, to retain key vistas eastward across the site to the southeast hills and westward across the site to Pleasanton Ridge, Specifically: . Bernal Avenue and 1-680 landscaping should be are to preserve views by creating gaps that frame distant views, . Building and tree height and location within 800 feet of Bernal Avenue west of the Phase I residential neighborhood are to be carefully established to minimize the visual screening of views toward the southeast hills and Pleasanton Ridge. . Landscaping on top of berms is to be designed to retain views of Pleasanton Ridge from 1-680, Taking the policy guidance for both natural and built elements of the Plan into considera- tion, it is concluded that the projects would not have an adverse effect on scenic vistas of or through the site, (2) Effect on Scenic Resources The kinds of scenic resources identified in this CEQA criterion are trees, rock outcroppings and historic buildings, Under the Plan: . The existing valley oak trees on the Knoll are planned for retention, and mature, healthy trees on the site are to be retained wherever practical (Conservation and Environmental Mitigation Element, Biological Resources Policy 3, p, 47), with any 44