Determining the Level of Analysis for the project in City of Walnut Creek

2.0 Determining the Level of Analysis

The City of Walnut Creek requires a Transportation Impact Study (TIS) to evaluate the effects of new development projects on the existing and planned street system. The need for a TIS is based on specific traffic generation thresholds and the potential impact on transportation infrastructure. Depending on the project’s characteristics, the City may require either a full Transportation Impact Analysis or a more focused Limited Scope Traffic Analysis.

2.1 Transportation Impact Analysis

A comprehensive TIS is mandatory when a development project is expected to generate significant traffic volumes. The City has established the following criteria to determine when a full transportation impact analysis is required:

1. The project is anticipated to generate more than 100 vehicle trips during either the a.m. or p.m. peak hour.
2. The project involves a General Plan Amendment (GPA) that changes the land use designation and is expected to generate more than 50 vehicle trips during the a.m. or p.m. peak hour.

A full TIS is intended to analyze how the proposed project will affect traffic flow, intersection operations, transit facilities, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and overall transportation network performance. This level of analysis ensures that mitigation measures can be identified and implemented to maintain acceptable mobility and safety within the city.

2.2 Limited Scope Traffic Analysis

In some cases, the City may determine that a full TIS is unnecessary and instead require a more focused traffic analysis to address specific concerns. This Limited Scope Traffic Analysis applies under the following circumstances:

1. The project is located near an intersection or roadway segment with known traffic issues that could be exacerbated by additional vehicle trips.
2. The project will cause significant changes to the surrounding transportation system, such as street closures, access restrictions, lane reductions, installation of new traffic signals or stop signs, disruption of pedestrian or bicycle pathways, or changes to transit stop locations.
3. The project is projected to generate between 50 and 100 vehicle trips during the p.m. peak hour.
4. The project site is within 1,000 feet of a freeway on-ramp, where additional traffic could contribute to congestion or operational concerns.
5. The project is expected to generate more than 50 vehicle trips and is located within 500 feet of a sensitive neighborhood or an intersection already experiencing significant traffic impacts.

The scope of the Limited Scope Traffic Analysis must be reviewed and approved by City staff. At a minimum, this analysis should demonstrate that the proposed project will not cause significant transportation impacts on any roadway, intersection, or transit, pedestrian, or bicycle facility. If potential issues are identified, mitigation measures may be required to ensure continued safe and efficient transportation operations.

By establishing these criteria, the City aims to balance development needs with maintaining mobility and safety for all transportation system users, ensuring that traffic impacts are properly assessed and managed.

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