Threshold T-1: This threshold assesses whether the proposed project would conflict with any program, plan, ordinance, or policy that addresses the circulation system, encompassing transit, roadways, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The City of Los Angeles has adopted a range of programs, plans, ordinances, and policies that collectively form the framework for transportation planning across all modes of travel. The overarching objectives of these policies are to establish a safe, accessible, and sustainable transportation system that caters to the needs of all users.
One key component of this framework is the Transportation Element of the City's General Plan, known as the "Mobility Plan 2035." This plan outlines a comprehensive vision and a set of policies and programs that the City aims to achieve to create streets that are safe and convenient for everyone. Vision Zero is another initiative derived from the Mobility Plan 2035, focusing on the Safety First goal with the aim of reducing transportation-related fatalities to zero. Vision Zero employs extensive crash data analysis to identify priority corridors and intersections and applies safety countermeasures accordingly.
Table 2.1-1 lists the titles of essential City plans and policies, along with their web links, which should be reviewed in the context of this threshold. These documents may undergo revisions over time, and new plans may be adopted that pertain to this threshold. The Los Angeles Department of City Planning (LADCP) will periodically review and update this list to ensure it accurately reflects the City's current priorities regarding transportation system safety and performance. It is essential to refer to this list to identify potential conflicts between projects and plans during the CEQA review process.
It is important to clarify that this threshold is designed to evaluate whether a project would conflict with an adopted program, policy, plan, or ordinance specifically adopted to protect the environment. Generally, transportation policies or standards adopted for environmental protection promote multi-modal transportation options and a reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT). However, a project should not be deemed to have an adverse impact solely based on its failure to implement a particular program, plan, policy, or ordinance. Many of these programs are typically the responsibility of the City itself to implement gradually and across a broad area. The intention of this threshold test is to ensure that proposed development projects and plans do not hinder the City's ability to carry out its adopted programs, plans, and policies. Determining compliance may require consultation with LADCP and LADOT.
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