1.0 INTRODUCTION
Cities play a critical role in constructing and maintaining public infrastructure, including roadways, transit systems, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, water and sewer lines, stormwater treatment facilities, and parks. As private development occurs, local governments must ensure that public facilities are adequate to accommodate population and employment growth. One method to assess the impact of development on transportation infrastructure is through a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA).
Traditionally, TIAs have been conducted as part of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review process for development projects, analyzing transportation impacts to determine compliance. However, with the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 743, changes to TIA requirements have been implemented. Under SB 743, a TIA may now be required as a stand-alone document independent of CEQA. This ensures decision-makers have access to necessary transportation impact information that may not be part of the CEQA process.
These Traffic Impact Analysis Preparation Guidelines provide instructions for assessing the transportation impacts of proposed development projects, including General Plan Amendments, Zone Changes, and Specific Plans in the City of Murrieta. The guidelines outline the recommended format and methodology for TIA preparation, aligning with requirements from the City’s Public Works/Engineering Department. They are based on the City’s General Plan Update, recommendations from the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG), and best practices for compliance with SB 743. While these guidelines serve as a general framework, the City reserves the right to adjust requirements based on the specific characteristics of a project.
To streamline the TIA process and avoid unnecessary delays, applicants must submit a scoping form for City approval before preparing a TIA. A template of this form is included as Exhibit A. The form facilitates both Level of Service (LOS) and Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) assessments. When required, a TIA must be prepared, signed, and sealed by a licensed Traffic Engineer or Civil Engineer in California, qualified in traffic engineering. The final study is subject to review and approval by the City of Murrieta’s Traffic Engineer.
CEQA CHANGES
SB 743 introduced significant changes to how transportation impacts are evaluated under CEQA. The law eliminates auto delay, Level of Service (LOS), and other congestion-based measures as primary determinants of significant impacts. This shift supports state goals for infill development, active transportation, and greenhouse gas reduction.
Under SB 743, cities and counties can opt out of LOS standards where Congestion Management Plans (CMPs) apply, such as in Riverside County. The law also required the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) to update CEQA Guidelines. In 2018, OPR recommended using Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) as the preferred metric for land use projects and plans. While lead agencies may choose their own metrics for transportation projects, they must provide substantial evidence supporting their methodology.
Cities and counties may continue to analyze LOS outside of CEQA for transportation planning purposes, including general plans, impact fee programs, corridor studies, and congestion mitigation efforts. However, LOS can no longer be the sole basis for determining CEQA transportation impacts.
The City of Murrieta retains discretion over the methodologies used for VMT evaluation under CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3. It may assess VMT changes in absolute terms, per capita, per household, or using other relevant measures. The City may also refine VMT estimates using professional judgment supported by substantial evidence.
The 2020 General Plan Update resulted in a citywide VMT reduction compared to the 2011 General Plan, leading to a determination of less-than-significant transportation impacts. The City intends to use the General Plan Update’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and traffic model to streamline project reviews for those meeting screening criteria or demonstrating consistency with the General Plan.
These TIA Guidelines comply with updated CEQA regulations and may be revised in response to future legislative or regulatory changes.
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