This excerpt outlines the methodology and criteria for assessing transportation-related environmental impacts, particularly using Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) as a metric, in compliance with updated CEQA guidelines. Here's a high-level breakdown of key points:
Analysis Methodology:
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Discretionary Use of VMT:
- VMT is used under CEQA Section 15064.3(b)(2) to evaluate environmental impacts for transportation projects.
- The City of Fountain Valley aligns its methodology with Caltrans guidelines (TAF and TAC).
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Induced Vehicle Travel Effects:
- Analyses should include potential changes in travel behavior (new or longer trips) and long-term land use changes.
- OCTAM may be used but requires sensitivity adjustments for induced travel, or off-model methods (elasticity-based research) can complement.
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Consultation Resources:
- Refer to OPR’s Technical Advisory and peer-reviewed research for best practices in induced travel analysis.
Project Screening for VMT Impact:
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Projects Likely to Require VMT Analysis:
- Addition of through lanes, including general purpose or HOV lanes, or grade-separated interchanges, as these likely increase vehicle travel.
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Projects Likely Exempt from Detailed VMT Analysis:
- Maintenance, repair, or safety projects that do not increase vehicle capacity.
- Infrastructure changes (e.g., auxiliary lanes <1 mile, traffic calming, signal optimizations) that aim to improve safety or efficiency.
- Projects that enhance or add pedestrian, bicycle, or transit facilities.
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Presumed Less-than-Significant Impact Projects:
- Projects like transit service expansions, bike/pedestrian facilities, or toll adjustments (with sufficient mitigation) are considered unlikely to cause significant VMT increases.
VMT Impact Threshold:
- Significant Impact Criteria:
- A project results in a net increase in total citywide VMT compared to baseline and cumulative no-project conditions.
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