Site Access Analysis and Mitigation Measures for Transportation Impact in the City of Manhattan Beach

Section 4.4 - Site Access Analysis

The Site Access Analysis is a critical component of the Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA), designed to assess project access constraints and on-site circulation requirements. This analysis may require a separate evaluation from the TIA, especially when addressing specific aspects of site access and internal circulation that could impact both the project's functionality and the surrounding transportation network.

Section 4.4.1 - Screening Criteria

In order to determine the necessity for additional site access studies, the following screening criteria must be evaluated. If the response is affirmative to any of the inquiries listed below, further analysis may be warranted:

1. Driveway Location: Does the project include a driveway on a Local, Major Local, or Residential Collector Street as designated on the Functional Classification Map in the City’s Mobility Plan? This is significant because driveways located on these types of streets can affect local traffic patterns and create queuing issues.

2. Vehicle Queuing: Would the project’s land use be expected to generate vehicle queuing either on-site or at driveways? This consideration is crucial for ensuring that vehicles can enter and exit the site without causing backups that could disrupt traffic flow on adjacent streets.

3. Parking Demand: Does the project’s land use include intermittent events or conditions that may exceed the supply of on-site parking or adversely impact the local street network? Events that lead to increased parking demand must be anticipated to prevent overflow parking on residential streets, which could lead to safety concerns and reduced accessibility.

Section 4.4.2 - Evaluation and Methodology

The project applicant is required to prepare and submit a Project Site Access Scoping Document to the City Traffic Engineer for review and approval. This Scoping Document outlines the assumptions and parameters that will guide any additional site access studies, including data collection and analysis requirements. Potential site access studies that may be necessitated by the screening criteria include:

• Traffic Access Management Study: This study will evaluate site access and on-site circulation conditions related to the project’s private roadways, driveways, pedestrian walkways, and special parking conditions. The focus will be on ensuring smooth transitions between different modes of transport and maintaining safety for all users.

• Traffic Queueing Analysis: The aim of this analysis is to assess the minimum requirements for vehicular queuing at driveways, vehicle gates, or drive-through lanes. Understanding peak queuing conditions is essential for determining whether the site can accommodate expected traffic volumes without causing delays.

• Traffic Event Management Study: This study evaluates site access and parking requirements for land uses characterized by intermittent events or special conditions that may exceed parking supply. It is crucial for identifying how to manage transportation impacts during high-traffic periods effectively.

Section 4.4.3 - Recommended Actions

The findings of these additional site access studies will be documented in the TIA Confirmation of Findings Letter. Potential corrective actions for project access and circulation issues will be explored, including:

• Implementing Access Control Measures: To ensure that on-site circulation is efficient, access control measures may be recommended. This can involve the strategic placement of signage, traffic signals, or barriers to manage the flow of vehicles and pedestrians.

• Enhancing Driveway Design: Recommendations may include redesigning driveways to accommodate higher volumes of traffic or queuing. This could involve adjusting the geometry of the driveway to allow for smoother entry and exit, potentially incorporating turn lanes where necessary.

• Improving Pedestrian and Bicycle Access: Enhancements to pedestrian walkways and bicycle paths leading to and from the site may be recommended to promote safety and accessibility. This could include widening sidewalks, adding bike lanes, or creating dedicated crossings to ensure that all users can navigate the area safely.

• Collaboration with City Traffic Engineer: It is essential for the project applicant to engage in ongoing dialogue with the City Traffic Engineer throughout the process. This collaboration will help ensure that the proposed measures align with city standards and regulations.

Section 5 - Mitigation Measures and Monitoring

When a project is projected to result in significant transportation impacts, as defined in Section 3, or transportation deficiencies, as outlined in Section 4, it is imperative for the project’s consultant to convene with the City to discuss potential transportation mitigation options and corrective actions prior to submitting the draft TIA Report. A range of transportation mitigation measures should be evaluated to reduce any significant impacts to an insignificant level. All proposed mitigation measures must be clearly articulated in the TIA to the satisfaction of the City Traffic Engineer.

Section 5.1 - Transportation Demand Management Measures

To minimize vehicle miles traveled, mitigation measures will focus on Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies. For any project seeking amendments to trip generation supported by TDM, a preliminary performance-based TDM Program must be incorporated into the TIA Report. This program should detail:

• Strategies to Encourage Alternative Transportation: TDM strategies might include incentives for carpooling, public transit usage, and cycling. Programs that encourage flexible work hours or remote work arrangements can also be part of this strategy to reduce peak hour traffic.

• Monitoring and Performance Metrics: Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the effectiveness of TDM strategies will be critical. Regular assessments should be scheduled to ensure that the TDM strategies are yielding the desired outcomes.

• Coordination with Local Transit Providers: Collaborating with local transit agencies to enhance public transportation options is crucial. This can involve improved service frequency or routing adjustments based on project needs.

Section 5.2 - Physical Infrastructure Improvements

The construction of physical infrastructure improvements may be recommended to mitigate adverse local impacts and to ensure compliance with the Mobility Plan Goals. The proposed improvements must incorporate Complete Streets practices to promote walking, biking, and transit use. Essential elements include:

• Conceptual Street Improvement Plans: These plans should be developed for any proposed physical infrastructure improvements. They will outline modifications to existing roadways, including the addition of bike lanes, widened sidewalks, and enhanced transit stops.

• Traffic Signal Plans: Upgrading traffic signals to better manage the flow of vehicles and pedestrians is vital. This may include the installation of adaptive traffic signals that can adjust to real-time traffic conditions.

• Signing/Striping Plans: Clear signage and road markings are critical for safe navigation. Plans should include updates to existing signage and pavement markings to reflect any changes in road use or design.

These plans should be submitted to the City Traffic Engineer for review and approval as part of the TIA Report, ensuring that all proposed improvements are feasible and effective.

Section 5.3 - Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program

To ensure accountability and effectiveness in the implementation of mitigation measures, a robust monitoring and reporting program must be established. Each mitigation measure in the project’s mitigation monitoring program should be described individually in the TIA Report and related CEQA document(s), if applicable. The following details are required for each measure:

• Agency Identification: Clearly identify the agency responsible for monitoring each measure and coordinating all participants involved. This helps ensure accountability and facilitates communication among stakeholders.

• Qualifications of Monitors: Specify the qualifications necessary for the individuals responsible for monitoring activities. This may include expertise in traffic management, civil engineering, or urban planning.

• Monitoring Schedule: Develop a comprehensive monitoring schedule outlining the phases of the project, the frequency of monitoring, and the timeline for completion or termination of monitoring activities. This should account for both physical mitigation measures required during construction and those necessary for the ongoing operation of the project, such as the TDM program.

• Funding and Financial Sources: Detail the funding required for monitoring activities, identifying sources of funding from both the project and the City. This is particularly important for long-term monitoring efforts, ensuring that financial resources are allocated appropriately.

In conclusion, the Site Access Analysis and Mitigation Measures outlined in this document serve as essential components for ensuring that transportation impacts associated with new development projects in the City of Manhattan Beach are effectively assessed and mitigated. By adhering to the screening criteria, evaluation methodologies, and recommended actions presented herein, project applicants can proactively address potential transportation issues and enhance the overall functionality and safety of the transportation network. Through a collaborative approach involving the City Traffic Engineer and local stakeholders, these measures will contribute to creating a more sustainable and accessible community.

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