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Home My WebLink AboutSS3 - Park Development• i� • May 14, 2002 STUDY SESSION AGENDA ITEM NO. 653 TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council FROM: Public Works Department SUBJECT: PARK DEVELOPMENT REPORT BACKGROUND: On January 22, 2002, the City Council and Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Commission (PB &R) held a joint Study Session on the development of three major parks sites within the City: Sunset Ridge, Newport Village, and Bayview Landing. Attached is a copy of this report (Exhibit A). Staff presented a summary of the issues and constraints related to each potential park site. At this meeting, concept plans from EPT Landscape for both Newport Village and Bayview Landing parks were presented. EPT was commissioned by The Irvine Company (TIC) to prepare the plans. Both sites raise special concerns for TIC because the company has dedicated the land and both sites are in highly visible areas adjacent to TIC developments. Priority was placed on the Newport Village project because of joint opportunities with the Central Library. Bayview Landing was also emphasized as a secondary priority because of the available CIOSA funding. It was also discussed that the immediate development of Sunset Ridge Park may not be feasible unless it could be done in conjunction with the Banning Ranch Development because of accessibility concerns. However, the Ranch development appears to be years off at this point in time. At the close of the Study Session, Council directed staff to obtain cost estimates for the EPT concept plans. DISCUSSION: Bayyiew Landing The concept plan developed by EPT for the Bayview Landing (Exhibit B) is very similar to the plan prepared in the fall of 2001 by CNC Engineering /Lynn Capouya Landscape Architects (Exhibit C), the current design team contracted for the project. The CNC Engineering cost estimate was approximately $2.4 million and included more grading than the proposed EPT plan that was estimated at $1.8 million (Exhibit D). SUBJECT: Park Development Report May 14, 2002 Page 2 A PB &R Park Development Sub - committee meeting was held on May 1, 2002, to • discuss the Bayview Landing and Newport Village Park sites. There are two approaches that were discussed to pursue the development of this park site. The first approach is to proceed immediately with one of the following three options or a similar variation utilizing the available $680,000 in funding. a) Maximum Grading - Phased Approach The first phase would design the park such that the view is maximized along Coast Highway between Jamboree Road and Promontory Point (approx. 75,000 yards of earth removed), install a bike trail connecting to Backbay Drive, and provide temporary irrigation and native landscaping for erosion control. A second phase project would be recommended when funding becomes available to improve the park with a combination of native and ornamental landscaping. b) Reduced Grading Design the park such that a bay view is improved from the intersection of Jamboree Road and Coast Highway (approx. 30,000 yards of earth removed), install a bike trail, plant the park's perimeter with formal ornamental landscaping with irrigation, and install temporary irrigation and native landscaping for erosion control for the internal portions of the park. c) No Grading Design the park without any improvement to the view and use the available funds for landscaping and various park amenities. • A secondary approach to Bayview Landing would be to proceed with the design of a park facility that would loosely follow the current concepts that have been proposed. This would result in a fully completed park at some future date with a cost exceeding current funding. The design process would utilize a portion of the City's current funding and the construction would depend upon the success in obtaining funds from a future grant program. To make this project more affordable, it is recommended that a hybrid design be pursued with some reduction in grading and amenities at a budget of approximately $1.3 million. This project would allow for the removal of approximately 30,000 yards of earth to create a substantial view from Jamboree and Coast Highway. It would also allow for extensive formal landscaping along the Coast Highway and Jamboree Road parkways and more native, informal landscaping within the interior of the park. Permanent erosion control and drainage features, such as a decorative riprap rock dry stream adjacent to the bike trail to Backbay Drive, could also be included in the project. One advantage to having a 'shelf ready' set of plans is that competitive grant programs often give funding priorities to projects that can deliver completed projects sooner. Additionally, the current budget allocation can be used as matching funds for the grant programs. The design process would also allow for additional time to research and incorporate grant funding opportunities as they become available, time • SUBJECT: Park Development Report May 14, 2002 Page 3 • to secure environmental clearance of the abandoned gas station site by the County Health Care Agency, and to potentially enable coordination with the future development of the lower Bayview Landing site. Based upon the preceding discussion, Staff is seeking direction on several issues: • Do we move forward with a project immediately with the current budget ceiling? • If we move forward now, what level of grading or view do we desire? And are we willing to live with a partially completed park with temporary planting and irrigation? • Would it be desirable to wait and pursue upcoming grant opportunities? Newport Village The Newport Village Park is currently unfunded. The project concept, presented at the January 22, 2002, joint Study Session by EPT is estimated to cost $2 million (see concept plan Exhibit E and cost estimate, Exhibit F). At the joint Study Session several members of the public spoke about the issues of parking at the Central Library. The Community Services Department commissioned a study of the parking needs, as well as a parking survey for current uses. These studies pointed out the benefits of a joint parking facility for the Newport Village Park • that would serve as overflow for the Central Library facility. Copies of the studies and a report from the Community Services Department are attached as Exhibit G. At the May 1, 2002. PB&R Park Development Sub - committee meeting, committee members and the public discussed some variations in the EPT concept plan which may reduce the cost of the Newport Village Park. Variations as to the amount of parking, park amenities, walking paths, formal ornamental landscaping, and native landscaping will significantly affect the cost of the completed park. Based upon the discussion, staff estimates that the cost range may be between $1 and $2 million. More accurate cost estimates can be developed when the formal design effort for the park is contracted. This design process will provide several opportunities for community input. Sunset Ridge Park California State Parks and City Staff are currently working on a draft purchase agreement for the purchase of the property from Caltrans. Also underway is the draft of the operating agreement between State Parks and the City, which will be similar to the existing agreement for the operation of the Corona del Mar State Beach. Access to the site in addition to funding, remain the key obstacles in developing this park. It is expected that the best opportunity to develop this park will be concurrent with the planned development of the Banning Ranch property. However, the schedule for • the proposed development is unknown at this time and Staff may need to explore SUBJECT: Park Development Report May 14, 2002 Page 4 interim access concepts if the Banning Ranch development does not proceed in the future. Future grant funding opportunities continue to be the 'wild card' in the development process of these three park sites. As you are aware, the State budget has been continually in question. Proposition 40 funding, approved by California voters last November may be a source of grant funding for this site. However, the guidelines for this program are not yet available. Respectfully AIORKS DEPARTMENT G. Badum, Director n By. ✓ V . r&IX -.----- Mic ael J. rZinacqK, P. E. Pri cipal Civ'dSngineer Attachments: Exhibit A - January 22, 2002, Council Study Session Report - Park Development Opportunities Exhibit B - January 11, 2002, Bayview Landing Concept Exhibit by EPT Landscape Architects Exhibit C - September 9, 2001, Bayview Landing Concepts by Lynn Capouya Landscape Architects Exhibit D - April 15, 2002, Bayveiw Landing Cost Estimate by EPT Exhibit E - January 11, 2002, Newport Village Park Concept Exhibit by EPT Exhibit F - May 5, 2002, Newport Village Park Cost Estimate by EPT Exhibit G - May 7, 2002, memo to Public Works Director regarding Central Library Parking Studies • • • STUDY SESSION AGENDA ITEM TO: Mayor and City Council Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission FROM: Homer Bludau, City Manager SUBJECT: Park Development Opportunities Introduction The City has three new park sites available, Newport Village, Sunset Ridge and Upper Bayview Landing. The Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission and staff have begun • some park development planning on Newport Village and Bayview Landing. The purpose of this study session is for the City Council and the Commission to discuss all three sites, to understand their potential, constraints, costs and funding status, and to provide direction on the scope of development for the sites and their relative priority. • Newport Village Site Description This site is located between Avocado Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard, north of the Central Library and south of San Miguel Drive. It is approximately 12 acres of land that has not been developed previously, although the lower portion has been graded and would be considered highly disturbed. The site contains seasonal wetlands and a mesa with views of Newport Harbor, Catalina Island and the Pacific Ocean. There is currently non- native, native and some coastal sage vegetation on the site. Planning Status The General Plan designates this site as Administrative Professional and Financial Commercial (APF), and it is zoned Planned Community. Open space, including a park, is a permitted use. The site is not in the Coastal Zone. EXHIBIT A Parks. Beaches and Recreation Commission Recommendations • Discussions so far have been to develop a passive view park on this site. After several public forums, the Commission approved, on November 6, 2001, the following list of components to be included in the design of the passive view park. • No concrete or asphalt paths; use decomposed granite or a natural looking material • This park will not be a destination park (i.e., a park where groups meet for all day events such as picnics, reunions, etc.) • Natural look, but user friendly • Protect views of surrounding neighborhoods including only essential use of night lighting • Security Lighting — only what is required for safety • Develop parking options • 25 spaces, 50 spaces and 100 spaces • consider improvements to existing onsite library parking • provide cost estimates for grading/parking options • provide alternative off -site parking solutions • Develop two concepts — • with more turf • with less turf • Consideration for the environmentally sensitive areas • • Benches, no picnic tables • List/survey potential users • Parking analysis of library • Small amphitheater / outdoor reading area for 30 -50 people • Landscaping should consider flowers /trees, location and size, for view protection • Drinking fountains • Garden like area Budget Status This fiscal year's budget includes $35,000 for a conceptual plan. Only staff time has been used so far, and the entire budgeted amount remains available. Issues and Concerns Access from Avocado Avenue and along the southerly boundary adjacent to the library is difficult due to the steep grade. Vehicular access to a proposed parking lot on the park site would require extensive grading at these locations. Access from MacArthur Boulevard would require less grading but would be limited to right turn in /out, and access to the library would be difficult. • 2 • Preservation of existing seasonal wetlands, arroyo areas and native vegetation are an important consideration for this park. As well, views from the park site itself and from adjacent residential areas need to be considered in the placement of park furniture, safety /security lighting, parking, and pathways. This site provides an opportunity not only for a new park, but also for additional library parking. Joint parking facilities could be considered on the southern portion of the site adjacent to the library. The Central Library is 54,000 sq. ft. The Friends Meeting Room is 1,800 sq. ft and seats 200 persons. Current parking is 210 spaces. Library parking standards vary from place to place. In comparison to some other standards, our Central Library does not have sufficient parking. The standard used in some southern California cities would require 225 to 280 spaces for our library, the North Carolina standard would require 340 spaces, and the California standard for schools would require 380 spaces. The Board of Library Trustees has limited the non -City and/or non - library use of the Friends Room to groups of 100, to preclude overcrowding of the library parking lot. While this limitation was in effect, the library conducted a parking survey in September 2000. The average occupancy of the parking lot was 50% in the morning, 70% in the afternoon and 55% in the evening. By the traffic engineering rule of thumb that 90% occupancy is full, the library parking lot has some more capacity only when use of the • Friends Meeting Room is limited. Even with this limitation, there were times in the afternoon and evening when fewer than 10 spaces were available. The Board of Library Trustees has determined that there is a need for an additional 100 parking spaces. A copy of the correspondence to the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission is attached as Exhibit 1. • Sunset Ridge Site Description This site, also known as "Caltrans West," is located at Coast Highway and Superior Avenue, adjacent to the Newport Crest town homes and the Banning Ranch. The property is 15 acres. It has been graded, the vegetation is non - native, and the site would be considered highly disturbed. The site offers views of the West Newport coast, Catalina Island and the Pacific Ocean. Planning Status The General Plan designation for this site is single family attached (SFA), with open space as an alternate. Zoning is multi - family, not to exceed 15 units per acre, 30% of which must be affordable. A view park is also a permitted use. This site is in the Coastal Zone, and its development will require Coastal Commission approval. 3 The West Newport community has advocated development of this site as an active sports • park without lights for a long time. Recently, there also has been some interest in a passive park. Budget Status Funds for site acquisition have been budgeted in this fiscal year ($700,000) and more is planned for next year ($1,000,000). There is not yet a budget for planning and development. Issues and Concerns The steep grade and curved alignment of Superior Avenue, along with an adjacent steep slope on the park site, prevent safe vehicular access from Superior Avenue. The adjacent steep slope and the lane drop transition on Coast Highway also prevent safe vehicular access from this frontage. These constraints indicate that access to the park site should be via the future Bluff Road alignment or via an easement through the Banning Ranch property. Interim access could be achieved by utilizing the existing parking at the northeasterly corner of Superior Avenue. Existing crosswalks through the Coast Highway intersection could be used for pedestrian access or a pedestrian bridge could be considered. Due to access issues, the appropriate time to develop this park may be in coordination . with the development of the Banning Ranch. In all likelihood, the future development of Banning Ranch would be required to include construction of Bluff Road and its intersection with Coast Highway. This property is divided by Superior Avenue, with 13 acres on the east side and 2 acres on the west side of the street. There may be a need for pedestrian and bicycle connections. Preservation of public views from the park site will need to be considered in park planning. Development of the park, especially any sports facilities, also could impact views from the Newport Crest townhomes. This site is close to or within an area that historically has had gas seepage at the surface from underground petroleum deposits. There also is at least one abandoned oil well on the property, and perhaps others on site or nearby. Finally, there are trace earthquake faults on the site. All of these issues will need to be addressed in planning for public use of this park site. \J 17 • Upper Bayview Landing Site Description This is a 12 -acre site located at the comer of Coast Highway and Jamboree Road, above the Newport Dunes. It is adjacent to a coastal bluff, with views of the Upper Newport Bay and the bluffs across the Bay. The site formerly was developed with a service station, and is highly disturbed. Nonetheless, there is coastal sage scrub on the slopes, and there is the possibility of gnatcatcher occupancy. Planning Status tatus This site is designated for Recreational and Environmental Open Space in the General Plan. It is zoned Planned Community, and a passive park with low intensity of use is permitted. The site is within the Coastal Zone, and approval by the Coastal Commission is required before development. Features of the park that have been discussed to date are the following. • View of Upper Newport Bay from Coast Highway (Requires grading) • Pedestrian and bicycle access, with no dedicated public parking • Trail from Coast Highway and Jamboree Road to Newport Dunes • • Informal landscape with native grasses and plants Budget Status The City encumbered $33,390 for design last fiscal year, half of which has been used for conceptual planning. This year, $340,000 from the General Fund is budgeted for planning and construction. A contract for environmental review has encumbered $24,900 of this amount. An additional $340,000 in CIOSA funds are available but not yet budgeted. Issues and Concerns There are no safe access points for motor vehicles, and the nearest public parking would be on Back Bay Drive. The only direct access would be for pedestrians and bicycles. Achieving the desired views of Upper Newport Bay from Coast Highway will require some grading of the coastal bluff. This is likely to be an issue for the Coastal Commission, especially with the presence of coastal sage scrub vegetation and the possibility of gnatcatchers. The City will need to demonstrate that the improved public view of a coastal resource outweighs the impacts of the grading. The former service station site has not been "closed" by the Orange County Health Care • Agency. Current levels of contamination have been identified, but the County has not F approved a remediation strategy. Strategies could range from monitoring to active • removal of the contaminants. Costs Exhibit 2 shows the City's historical park construction costs. The average cost over the past five years has been $212,000 per acre. For passive parks like Castaways and Arroyo, costs ranged from $63,000 to $394,000 per acre. Arroyo Park was exceptionally expensive due to the inclusion of a storm drain, walkways to the nearby residential area, and a lighted sports field. For more active parks like Bob Henry and Bonita Canyon, the range was $162,000 to $229,000. Maintenance costs are higher for active parks than for passive ones. The City's experience is that active parks cost $4,500 per acre per year, and passive ones cost $1,500 per acre per year. Potential Fundins Sources Proposition 40, the Clean Water, Clean Air, Safe Neighborhood Parks and Coastal Protection Bond Act, which would provide $2.6 billion in funding statewide for Parks, Water, and Conservation, will be on the state ballot on March 5, 2002. If approved by the voters, funding availability for Newport Beach would be $365,000, in Per Capita Funds and $220,120 in Roberti Z'berg Hams Urbanized Allocations. If the bond is • approved by voters, funds would also be available to state agencies for the following specific purposes: • $300,000,000 to Wildlife Conservation Board, for habitat restoration, etc. • $200,000,000 to State Coastal Conservancy, for projects relating to the conservancy's goals. Some funding for Upper Bayview Landing and Caltrans West may be available through the EPA for restoration of "brown fields" or contaminated sites. u G1 kv 3AI'd0kVg NOVEI ....... ....... . . . . . FL -Ti opSt IJ cu 0 co —j v/4 i, of � Y e j a�3Qa3 �3 WIN I .a A mill 1 -u N U F (A S X W ill E 1111 (� iii ® ©© BAY VIEW PARK • Conceptual Plan Cost Estimate one Prepared For: The City of Newport Beach Prepared By: EPT Landscape Architecture 04/15/02 Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Mobilization (2% of Contract) 2% N/A N/A $31,147 Bonding (2 %) 2% N/A N/A $31,147 Construction Water & Power 1% N/A N/A $15,574 Contingency (10%) 10°x6 N/A N/A $155,735 Traffic Control ALLOW N/A N/A $5,000 SWPPP ALLOW N/A N/A $5,000 Site Improvements Temporary construction fencing LF 1,561 $12.00 $18,732 Clear & grub SF 294,197 $0.08 $23,536 • Earthwork CY 57,003 $3.00 $171,009 Export Soil CY 52,945 $7.00 $370,615 Drainage ALLOW N/A N/A $45,000 Domestic Water Service EA 1 $5,000.00 $5,000 Electrical Service EA 1 $4,500.00 $4,500 Specialty concrete SF 3,242 $9.00 $29,178 Decomposed granite paving SF 15,745 $1.50 $23,618 Sub -Total Site Improvements $691,187 • Page 1 of 2 I�:1:11= r3Ti .7 Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Architectural Improvements & Site Amenities • Information view kiosk ALLOW I # # # # # # ## $50,000 4' Ranch Rail Fence LF 895 $15.00 $13,425 Low Entry Wall with Cap LF 1,445 $50.00 $72,250 Bollard Walk Lighting EA 36 $850.00 $30,600 Drinking Fountain with Sump EA 1 $3,000.00 $3,000 Concrete Bench EA 7 $1,000.00 $7,000 Trash /Ash Receptacles EA 7 $850.00 $5,950 Park Signage ALLOW 1 # # # # # # ## $15,000 Sub -Total Architectural Improvements & Site Amenities Landscape Impoovements $197,225 Irrigation SF 294,197 $1.15 $338,327 Weed Abatement SF 294,197 $0.05 $14,710 Soil Prep /Fine Grading SF 278,452 $0.18 $50,121 24" Box Trees EA 26 $240.00 $6,240 Hydroseed Meadow Turf SF 71,192 $0.10 $7,119 Shrub & Groundcover SF 223,005 $1.00 $223,005 Sub -Total Landscape Improvements $639,522 Plant Establishment / Maintenace 90 Day Plant Establishment SF 294,197 '$0.05 $14,710 90 Day Site Maintenance SF 294,197 $0.05 $14,710 Sub -Total Plant Establishment /Maintenance $29,420 Estimated Project Total $1,800,957 This estimate of probable construction costs is supplied as a guide only. This firm is not responsible for 1 fluctuations in costs of materials, labor components, or unforseen contingencies. This estimate has been at the request of the Client, prior to finalization of plans and specifications and, therefore, is subject to ch Page 2 of 2 • F 5 � gggSeR Z °p gag s° y � 3 ? b 3 5 a 2 W H fll W • Sub -Total Site Improvements $533,354 Page 1 of 3 EXHIBIT F NEWPORT VILLAGE LIBRARY PARK • Conceptual Plan Cost Estimate Prepared For: The City of Newport Beach oil Prepared By: EPT Landscape Architecture Revised 5 -2 -02 Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost Mobilization (2% of Contract) 2% N/A N/A $34,247 Banding (2 %) 2% N/A N/A $34,247 Construction Water & Power 1% N/A N/A $17,124 Contingency (10%) 10% N/A N/A $171,236 Traffic Control ALLOW N/A N/A $10,000 SWPPP ALLOW N/A N/A $5,000 Site Improvements Temporary construction fencing LF 3,854 $12.00 $46,248 Demolition ALLOW N/A N/A $10,000 Clear & grub SF 492,642 $0.08 $39,411 Earthwork Cy 30,000 $3.00 $90,000 • Export Soil Cy 23,400 $5.00 $117,000 Drainage ALLOW N/A N/A $25,000 Domestic Water Service EA 1 $2,500.00 $2,500 Electrical Service EA 1 $4,000.00 $4,000 4" AC Paving over 6" Base (parking) SF 37,127 $2.00 - $74,254 Concrete curb and gutter LF 2,550 $12.00 $30,600 Concrete sidewalk SF 5,100 $3.25 $16,575 Specialty concrete SF 3,242 $9.00 $29,178 Raised concrete stage ALLOW N/A N/A $15,000 Decomposed granite paving SF 17,725 $1.50 $26,588 6" mow curb LF 1,000 $7.00 $7,000 • Sub -Total Site Improvements $533,354 Page 1 of 3 EXHIBIT F Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost 215.709 $0.75 $161,782 SF 246,321 Architectural Improvements & Site Amenities $12,316 SF 337,216 $0.18 Freestanding 10'Pergola Facade LF 283 $400.00 $113,200 Trellis Pergola ALLOW 1 $50,000.00 $50,000 Low Masonary Seat Wall with Cap LF 251 $55.00 $13,805 Parking Lot Lighting ALLOW N/A N/A $15,000 Bollard Walk Lighting EA 27 $850.00 $22,950 Drinking Fountain with Sump EA 2 $2,000.00 $4,000 Concrete Picnic Tables EA 4 $1,200.00 $4,800 Concrete Bench EA 8 $1,000.00 $8,000 Trash /ash Receptacles EA 8 $850.00 $6,800 Park Signage ALLOW 1 $15.000.00 $15,000 Sub -Total Architectural Improvements & Site Amenities Landscape Imporvements irrigation Temp. Irrigation (native plant area) Weed Abatement Soil Prep /Fine Grading (non-slope) 24" Box Trees 15 Gal Trees Shrubs & Ground Cover Hydroseed Turf Restored Native Grassland Restored Coatal Scrub Sage Restored Riparian Planting Sub -total Landscape Improvements $253,555 SF 276,933 $1.15 $318,473 SF 215.709 $0.75 $161,782 SF 246,321 $0.05 $12,316 SF 337,216 $0.18 $60.699 EA 111 $240.00 $26,640 EA 10 $125.00 $1.250 SF 193,132 $1.00 $193,132 SF 83,801 $0.06 $5,028 SF 69,745 $0.14 $9,764 SF 87,104 $1.00 $87,104 SF 58,860 $0.50. $29,430 Page 2 of 3 $875,188 • • • Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost • Plant Establishment / Maintenace 90 Day Plant Establishment SF 492,642 $0.05 $24,632 90 Day Site Maintenance SF 492,642 $0.05 $24,632 Sub -Total Plant Establishment /Maintenance $49,264 Estimated Project Total $1,984,215 This estimate of probable construction costs is supplied as a guide only. This firm is not responsible for po: fluctuations in costs of materials, labor components, or unforseen contingencies. This estimate has been pr at the request of the Client, prior to finalization of plans and specifications and, therefore, is subject to char • • Page 3 of 3 COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT EXHIBIT G Arts 13 Cultural - Library - Recreation - Seniors Date: May 7, 2002 To: Steve Badum, Public Works Director From: LaDonna Kienitz, Community Services Director /City Librarian Re: Newport Village Site — Parking Studies at the Central Library As part of the comprehensive study of construction of a passive park on the Newport Village site, the library was requested to conduct two types of parking studies. 1. COST OF MODIFYING THE CURRENT CENTRAL LIBRARY PARKING LOT The study was conducted by JLP Architects, Inc. Three options were provided. Option 1 — Subterranean Parkin Increased parking 180 stalls Probable Costs $5.5 million Negative impacts Currently only one access /egress Disruption during construction Approval of The Irvine Company • vNUVn L — AUUIUVIIat Ilal lUl IF >IPG Co al WCDI CI IV VI CAUUna LUL Increased parking - 17 stalls Probable Costs - $188,000 Negative Impacts - Modification of Use permit required. 193 linear feet of retaining wall required Removal of 18 olive trees Set -back will need to be re- landscaped • Approval of The Irvine Company Option 3 — Restructure existing parking lot Increased parking Loss of 9 stalls Negative Impact All landscaped islands eliminated An additional double loaded aisle is gained, but parking stalls are lost because of the 45 angle. II. PARKING STUDY AT CENTRAL LIBRARY A study of the current parking use at the Central Library was conducted by Library Consultant Robert H. Rohlf, April 8, 2002 The data cites the number of available parking spaces on hourly intervals during the period of February 22 to March 17, 2002. During the study, the guidelines imposed by the Board of Library Trustees, which severely restricts the use of the Friends Meeting Room were in place. These restrictions included: • No non - library use of the Friends Meeting Room on Sundays. • Restricted hours of use during the weekdays. • No commercial use of the Friends Meeting Room. • Maximum audience permitted in attendance is 100 persons, unless off -site parking arrangements are made. (The Friends Meeting Room seats 200.) Under these restricted guidelines for use of the Meeting Room, the report shows periods when • parking is available. Attachments: 1. Correspondence, JLP Architects, Inc., February 21, 2002 2. Parking Study, Newport Beach Public Library, Robert H. Rohlf, April 8, 2002 : S^. �- vrN ^ }c"- ,�R�'dC'C'x.�r /c- r{4'c -T ^. �:5•,v.�"IC�3 =A .6 a:G�'.r 1�i '43:iT- .SttAa-- F'TRL C[ \6 ir�'��a_- E. ":�i.-. _.. -••`T' . February 21, 2002 La Donna T. Kienitz Community Services Director /City Librarian City of Newport Beach 3300 Newport Blvd. P.O. Box 1768 Newport Beach, CA 92658 -8915 Project- NBPL General Services Project No.:. 02 -01.1 Subject Expanded Parking for the Central Library Dear LaDonna: At your request JLP Architects, Inc. (JLP) has investigated several options for increasing the parking at the. Central Library. Our investigation has been limited to one brief site visit and consultation with. a representative of International Parlang Design, Inc. (IPD), discussions with our cost estimator NJF Associates and the preparation of several conceptual drawings. (see attachments). Several options exist for increasing the parking. Option #l: Construct a single subterranean level of parldng under the current surface parking lot resulting in two levels of parking (See Exhibit #1). • Increase in parking - approximately 180 stalls. • Probable Cost - $5.5 million • Issues: • Currently the library parldng lot has only one accesslegress point. The city might require a structure of this size to have more than one. • The design and construction of ramps is problematic because of the sloped . access to the site. Some parking stalls might be lost because of this. . Phasing and disruption during construction will be a major. problem and will increase the cost Option #2: Construct additional parking spaces at the west end of the existing lot perpendicular to Avocado Street (see Exhibits #2 & #3).' • Increase in parking - 17 stalls. • Probable Cost - $188,000.00 S • Issues: • Encroachment into the existing setback will require a modification in the Use Permit for the library site. • 193 lineal feet of retaining wall will have to be constructed. • Two rows of olive trees and landscaping will need to be removed. The setback will need to be re= landscaped. • Only 17 parking stalls will be gained. Option #3: Restripe the existing parking lot to increase the number of stalls. f • Increase in parking - loss of 9-cars. 1 Probable Cost - N.A. • Issues_ • An additional double loaded aisle is gained but parking stalls are lost because of the 45 angle of the stalls. • All landscaped islands would be eliminated. To summarize, we do not see a cost effective means to provide any significant increase in the parking on the Central Library site. I would be pleased to discuss this with you at your convenience. Sincerely, JLP Architgcts, Inc. James L. Pirdy, Architect Principal JLP/ks enclosure • k It IPA 01 I isT -&x to I 0 PARKING STUDY NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY Prepared by Robert H. Rohlf April 8, 2002 E 0 The consultant was engaged to review the parking demand at the Newport Beach Public Library, to assess availability of parking against state, regional or national library parking standards or guidelines and to assess the impact of parking accessibility on library use. As a basis for the study a parking utilization study was conducted over a twenty -four day period February 22, 2002 — March 17, 2002. There were a total of 234 counting periods during that time span. The library parking lot provides for 201 general parking stalls plus 9 handicap or "3 — minute" stalls. A chart of the vacancy counts during the study period can be found on the next page. Overall the most congested periods in the parking lot occurred on mid - afternoons. Weekday mid - afternoons ranged from a vacancy rate as low as 20 to a high of 104 with a mean and median average of 57. Weekend afternoons present the biggest challenge to library users attempting to park as at times the count indicated no parking stall vacancies or else less than ten vacancies. It is understood from traffic .engineering comments that parking lot utilization at ninety percent or higher is considered "full occupancy ". There were six times during the study counts that Saturday or Sunday afternoon parking demand resulted in more than a ninety percent occupancy rate. It is probable that some library users spent as much time or more looking for a parking space than the amount of time that they actually spent in the library once their parking search was successful. • The data from this study showed a higher parking lot occupancy rate on the average than was the occupancy rate in a previous study conducted over a two-week period in September 2000. This high (and increasing) parking utilization rate is occurring even though the Library Board has established policies that severely limit meeting room use. The policies intended to ease parking demands prolubit non - library meeting room use on Sundays, restrict it to certain weekday hours and limit meeting room attendance to less than one -half of the capacity of the room. In previous communications to the Mayor and City. Council the library had furnished what little information exists on national library parking requirements. Prior to reviewing the library parking counts an extensive new literature search was conducted by a research librarian to determine if additional information was available on library parking requirements. After a review of numerous indexes and data bases including library, engineering and government sources, there appears to be no formal approved national parking standards but only a few scattered guidelines such as the North Carolina standard of one car space per every 200 gross square foot of building or the California school standard of one space per 148 square feet. Both of these standards have already been reported to the Mayor and Council. • § § � ■ q a = K # E K s } i § 0, s ■ co R ; t ; ■ § k §§ § 2 2 ■ s ■ a ■ r .cc w E k k CD C4 v v to §. s , 03 co 2 A 9 § F p ■ k ; ; ? E 'm 5 § s ; @ s a F / K 9 a ■ ■ _ _ ; P as ; 2 m a k A . §; F s R 8 2 U. 9 a 2 C4 cc v / § -W S . § # s CO § § C4 1 /§ ! ) ; 03 t F m 2 a $ F § §. § 7 2 3 ■ ; ■ = R ; s ■. 7 § § ■ ; C4 n ; § ® ! § -WO, . 9 ■ ■ in ) co co k § � 3�# k/� �\! 0 E{f �■CK !tt �)Z !2% \�\ 0 A review of planning documents and programs prepared by a variety of library planning and programming consultants indicate a common recommendation in the planning of new library buildings for a parking provision of one car per every 200 square feet of gross building plus an allowance of one car for every two meeting room seats. The ratio of one car per 200 building square feet of building appears to have been developed thirty years ago and has been tested and found adequate in the ensuing years. However, in those cities with a high population density and adequate public transportation that formula has not been applied. If the 1 car to 200 square foot of building formula were to be applied to Newport Beach the library would require 270 parking stalls exclusive of meeting room use. If the meeting room, capacity were included the formula would result in a parking lot for the Newport Beach Public Library for 370 cars. It is indeed unfortunate that the Library has found it necessary to limit the frill utilization of the meeting room due to parking limitations. But even with that limitation there is a severe parking shortage at popular times. Even without a meeting occurring for example, a trip to the library on Saturday or Sunday afternoons results in some time spent searching for a place to park. Library planning literature contains no parking standards but published articles reflect comments on how parking availability directly impacts on library use. In many instances cities have acquired adjacent properties to increase library parking facilities and seen resultant increases in • library use when that occurs. Both in new library buildings recently completed and in buildings in the final stages of design the need for adequate public parking is evident. Cities such as Seattle, San Diego, Des Moines and Minneapolis are even providing large underground parking garages in their new buildings for library users. With the increasingly tight parking situation at the Newport Beach Library and the meeting room use restrictions needed to minimize the parking need it would seem appropriate to significantly increase the present parking availability. When studies indicate that there are times when there is absolutely no parking space available, and when people are parking in redlined "no parking" areas there is evidence of a real shortage of available parking.. In addition, it is unfortunate to be unable to utilize fully and completely a meeting room facility already built but restricted in use. The one car per 200 square feet of building size formula has been proven satisfactory over a long period of time in many car oriented communities similar to Newport Beach. It would seem to be good public policy to adopt and implement that formula for the Newport Beach Library. Page 3 • Don Webb 1821 Mariners Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660 May 9, 2002 Mayor and City Council Members Newport Beach City Hall Subject: Bay View Overlook Park Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council, COUNCIL AGENDA N0. S53 5 -iy `02 MAY —9 P 2 :50 For many years while driving westerly on Coast Highway at Jamboree Road, I have looked at the hill and rise of the land that blocks an outstanding view of the bay. There is a brief glimpse of the bay where the old road from the Back Bay used to reach Coast Highway. Finally just before the Promontory Point entrance signal the hill was removed and you can see the view that should be created for the entire Bay View site. Attached to this memo are pictures that I have taken to try to demonstrate the view that exists today and the view that could be created if the Bay View site were graded to create a view. The first series of pictures on the 1 Ix 17 sheet were taken to demonstrate the view that could be created from the Coast Highway /Jamboree Road intersection. The second page of pictures show the hill blocking the view for 400 feet easterly of the Promontory Point entrance. The bottom picture on this sheet, on the left side, shows where a portion of the hill was removed a number of years ago to create a view. The upper picture of each pair shows the view that could be created with grading. The third page picture was taken from the area that was graded in the past and looks at the bluff facing the Dunes. The area above the green line would need to be removed to create a view. This will require the removal of 5 to 9 feet from the top of the 60 -foot tall bluff face. The fourth page pictures were taken from the Coast Highway median and again show the hill grading (above the green line) needed to create a view. If the basic grading could be done to create the view with funds that are currently available, it will greatly enhance the City's chances to get grants for additional funds to complete the permanent hard - scape, irrigation and landscaping proposals. This is an opportunity to create a 1000 -foot long panoramic vista of the Upper Newport Bay and waterfront area that close to 100,000 motorists a day could enjoy. (60 to 65,000 cars per day on Coast Highway and 25 to 30,000 cars per day on Jamboree Road.) There is not another project that could be constructed in the City that will create views to be appreciated by as many people every day. Please move forward with a modified grading project that will provide the maximum view enhancement for the funds currently available and follow up with grant applications to complete hard -scape and landscaping later. Thank you for your consideration. �n I t • [i v'- _ Ll • i. All --r-v v k�e iI i. All --r-v v k�e 0 • 0 Bayview Landing Grading Area above green line to be gaded to create a view from Coast Highway 7A 1 Earth above green line to be removed to create a view of the Upper Newport Bay from Coast Highway Note: The area to the left was graded six years ago to create a view of the Bay. Photos & Captions by Don Webb Bayview Landing Grading • View from Coast Highway to be Created • Today's View from Coast Highway East of Promontory Point Drive View to Be Created form Coast Highway at Promontory Point Drive • _Today's View from Coast Highway at Promontory Point Drive Note: Left side was graded to create a view six years ago. Photos & Captions by Don Webb 0 • E Bayview Landing Grading Today's view looking east from the area that was graded six years ago. The area above the green line needs to be removed to create a view of the bay from Coast Highway. Photo and captions by Don Webb C C a a d R DL O .R R 00 O b C 3 R as d Y U F a u i ul U e a S M' j 0 `a 44. 70, Im tia- At i i NEWPORT CENTRAL PARS 4-0 Y6RN - i �PooLS N • a 0- P'PORTUN Ii 1E: 5 CONSTRAIN -F5 VIEWS s COASTAL SE SCRUB A��° �� IUIIIIIII ORNA�n� rnL LAMPSCAPF . i JAN D. VANDERSLOOT, M.D. 2221 E16 Street Newport Beach, CA 92663 May 8, 2002 Mayor Tod Ridgeway, and Newport Beach City Council members City of Newport Beach 3300 Newport Blvd Newport Beach, CA 92663 Re: Newport Beach Study Session Tuesday May 14, 2002, Agenda Item No. SS3 Newport Village Park (aka Newport Central Park) Home Phone (949) 548 -6326 Office FAX (714) 848 -6643 Dear Mayor Ridgeway, and Newport Beach City Council members, Enclosed are the renderings of Newport Central Park, created by the SPON in 2001, to show a conceptual plan for the park above the library, from which EPT developed its concept. I would like to point out some differences between SPON's plan and EPT's plan: LSPON developed its plan, attached, based on an Opportunities & Constraints Analysis, also attached, along with visual inspection of the site with regards to views and noise from MacArthur Blvd, which might detract from enjoyment of the park. This Opportunities & Constraints Analysis, in turn, was based on biology reports done in 1998 by Robert Hamilton, also attached. 2. The turf grass in SPON's plan was placed so as to maximize the view of the ocean and harbor, all the way up the coast to the Palos Verde Peninsula and beyond to Los Angeles. Therefore, it did not go over the top of the rise towards San Miguel. It is thus south of Farallon, while EPT extends its turf plan north of Farallon. 3. Much of the site already contains abundant native vegetation that does not need restoration, as indicated in the attached biology reports. The SPON plan preserves the native bunch grasses, particularly to the east of the turf grass area, and also preserves the native vegetation around the turf grass area. 4. The SPON plan preserves the vernal pools and seasonal wetlands, as identified on the Opportunities & Constraints drawing. The trails in the EPT plan would impact these areas. 5. The SPON plan envisions leaving much of the natural vegetation in place, without the need for clearing and grubbing, irrigation, or replanting, except for mitigation of lost coastal sage scrub on the cut slope immediately above the library, which should be replaced since it looks like it will be removed under either plan if the parking lot behind the library is expanded. The vegetation around the turf area would be natural/native, with an edge treatment talked about by Pat Beek at the Park Development Committee of the PBR Commission at its subcommittee meeting on Thursday May 2, 2002. This edge treatment could conceivably include the replacement of the coastal sage scrub from behind the library on the bluff face to the outer edges of the trails. 6. The parking lot on the SPON Plan was envisioned to be terraced on the slope so that there would not be as much of a climb to get to the park. Access to the park, parking lot size, and grading remain issues to be discussed. JAN D. VANDERSLOOT, M.D. 2221 E 16 Street Home Phone (949) 548 -6326 Newport Beady CA 92663 Office FAX (714) 848 -6643 7. I wonder if a cost analysis could also be done on the SPON plan, like EPT. Savings should accrue because of the lesser need for vegetation modification under the SPON plan, including less clearing, less irrigation, less new planting. The turf area was about 2 -3 acres in the SPON plan, with 1 -2 acres devoted to parking lot and amphitheater. The amphitheater was put there because of Councilman Tom Thomson's input, and does have value to some members of the community. I plan on attending the Study Session on May 14, and would be happy to discuss the SPON Plan further. I think this plan has advantages, both on a conceptual and cost basis, over the EPT plan, which actually derived its plan based on the SPON Plan. In addition, SPON has the advantage of closely monitoring this park site for over 10 years, and has invested many hours in planning, weeding and physically caring for this park site. Thank you for considering the SPON Plan. Sic el A0 Jan D. Vandersloot, MD Attachments: 1. SPON Concept Illustration, color rendering of Newport Central Park 2. SPON Opportunities and Constraints, Newport Central Park 3. Letter Report, Initial Biological Survey, Robert A. Hamilton, March 9, 1998 4. Follow -Up Report, Initial Biological Survey, Robert A. Hamilton, July 16, 1998 2 Robert A. Hamilton March 9,1998 Jan Vandersloot Stop Polluting Our Newport 2221 East 16" Street Newport Beach, CA 92663 SUBJECT' REPORT, INITIAL BIOLOGICAL SURVEY DEDICATED OPEN SPACE PARCEL AT NEWPORT FASHION ISLAND Dear Jan, On behalf of the citizens' group Stop Polluting Our Newport (SPON), you requested that I complete an initial biological survey on a parcel covering approximately 12 acres in the City of Newport Beach (City). You indicated to me that this parcel is presently dedicated to the City as natural open space, and that SPON intends to participate in the City's planning process regarding proposed construction of residential housing on this parcel. This letter report presents the methods, results, and conclusions of my initial biological survey. METHODS On 7 March 1997, I inspected an open space parcel covering approximately 12 acres near Fashion Island Newport Canter. The site is rectangular, and bounded on the east by MacArthur Boulevard, on the north by San Miguel Drive, on the west by Avocado Avenue, and on the south by the Newport Beach Public Library. Goals of my survey included (1) characterizing the site's plant communities, including their dominant species plant and overall condition, and (2) identifying plant and animal species present on the site, including sensitive species. I inspected the entire site and made note of each vertebrate wildlife species that I detected. I recorded the plant species characteristic of each plant community, but did not attempt to assemble a complete list of plant species present on the site. Observations of sensitive species are discussed, but analysis of sensitive species potentially present on the site was beyond the scope of this preliminary study. Survey Summary Survey Date Time Start Conditions End Conditions 7 March 1998 0800 -1130 clear; sunny; still; --70 °F clear; sunny; still; —78 °F P.O. Box 961 —/ 20611 %z Sycamore Drive v— Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678 -�i (714) 459 -2875 (Phone/Fax) —/ robbham@flash.net —�- • -s Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist RESULTS Plant Communities The project site consists of a grassy mesa bordered on the south by a native coastal sage scrub restoration effort, on the east and west by road edges and associated ornamental plantings (in places), and on the north by native coastal sage scrub and two drainages supporting cat -tail marsh vegetation. The following paragraphs discuss these communities, and their characteristic species, in greater detail. Annual Grassland /Seasonal Wetlands The mesa, which accounts for approximately half of this parcel, is vegetated primarily with non- native grasses and forbs, interspersed with native forbs and sub - shrubs. Considering the site's location and the species composition, it is likely that the entire mesa was mechanically disturbed in the past. Dominant and locally prevalent non -native species include brome grasses (Bromus diandrus, B. mollis, B. madritensis ssp. rubus), Slender Wild Oats (Avena barbata), storksbills (Erodium spp.), Bermuda - Buttercup (Oxalis pes- caprae), Black Mustard (Brassica nigra), and peppergrass (Lepidium sp.); native species well represented in the site's annual grasslands include Cudweed Aster (Lessingia filaginifolia), fiddleneck (Amsindda sp.), Big Gumplant (Grindelia camporum), Telegraph Weed (Heterotheca grandifiora), and Deer Weed (Lotus scoparius). Two seasonal ponds exist within the site's annual grasslands. The larger of the ponds is at the mesa's northeast comer and covers approximately 0.2 acre. This pond contained water to a maximum depth of approximately six inches during the site survey, and supported at least three species adapted to wetland conditions: spike -rush (Eleocharis sp.), Curly Dock (Rumex crispus), and Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia). The second pond is found along the western edge of the mesa, near the intersection of Avocado and Farallon, and covers approximately 0.1 acre. This pond contained water to a maximum depth of approximately eight inches during the site visit, and supported at least two species adapted to wetland conditions: Curly Dock and Mulefat. Additional plant species were present in these seasonal ponds, but were not mature enough to be identified during the site survey. Finally, a seasonally wet swale runs east and west near the southern edge of the mesa; I did not observe surface water within this swale, but the swale supports African Umbrella -Sedge (Coerus alternifolius), a species adapted to wetland conditions'. Cat -tail Marsh Cat -tail marshes are found in two perennial drainages that are fed by urban runoff in the northern portion of the site. The site's principal drainage runs east and west, and supports a fairly extensive stand of emergent vegetation, mostly cat -tails (Typha sp.). Also present here are numerous large specimens of Pampas Grass (Cortaderia jubata) and some shrubby Arroyo Willows (Salix lasiolepis). Approximately half of the emergent vegetation was recently removed from this drainage (i.e., within the past week) and stacked near its western terminus. To the north is a north -south trending tributary to the principal drainage; this drainage supports a stringer of cat - tails. Together, these cat- tail marshes appear to cover between 0.5 and 1.0 acre. 'Identification made by botanist David Bran-let. Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist Coastal Sage Scrub Native coastal sage scrub covers much of the northern half of the site. This community is dominated by California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica) and California Sunflower (Encelia californica), with smaller amounts of Deer Weed, California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), Saw- toothed Goldenbush (Hazardia squarrosa), Coastal Prickly -Pear (Opuntia littoralis), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia), Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), and California Wishbone Bush (Mirabilis californica). These native shrubs provide approximately 80 to 100 percent cover in most areas, but are being encroached upon by invasive exotic species, particularly Hottentot -Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) and Myoporum (Myoporum laetum). The cut -slope at the southern edge of the mesa (behind the Newport Beach Public Library building) is being restored to a coastal sage scrub community comprised mainly of Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), California Sagebrush, California Sunflower, Ashy- leaved Buckwheat (Eriogonum cinereum), and Buff Monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus). Scattered specimens of ceanothus (Ceanothus sp.) are also present. This habitat is perhaps a year or two from reaching full maturity, as the plants are now mostly two to three feet tall. Ornamental Plantings Manufactured slopes along Avocado Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard have been planted with non -native ornamental groundcovers, including acacias (Acacia spp.), African Daisy (Dimorphotheca sp.), and Sweet - Alyssum (Lobularia maritima). Sweet - Alyssum, known to be an invasive exotic weed in southern California and elsewhere, is expanding somewhat into openings in the adjacent coastal sage scrub community. Wildlife This section discusses only vertebrate wildlife species observed during the site visit; it was beyond the scope of this preliminary survey to attempt to identify species with potential to occur on the site. Reptiles Two reptile species were observed: Side - blotched Lizard (ilta stansburiana) and Western Skink (Eumeces s)ciltonianus). Birds Of the 24 bird species observed during the site survey, most are common native residents such as the Red - tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis); Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna), American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans), House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), and Lesser Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria). Winter visitors observed on the site include Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)', Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus), Orange-crowned Warbler (Vermivora celata), Yellow- rumped Warbler (Dendroica coronata), and White- crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys). One pair of Coastal California Gnatcatchers (Polioptila californica californica), a federally threatened species, was observed in coastal sage scrub habitat located in the northeast portion of the site (see attached map). I followed the male for over an hour and could see that this bird was definitely not banded. I obtained only brief views of the secretive female, but I believe that this bird was 1 Observed in cat -tail marsh habitat. 3 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist unbanded, as well. I did note that the female was carrying nesting material. The male gave a variety of calls and scolds typical of the species; at one point, the male and female maintained communication through paired (occasionally tripled) House Finch -like calls: "jrry? jrry?" I suspected that a second male California Gnatcatcher may have been present, but I could not determine this conclusively. At one point the paired male responded very aggressively to another bird that remained invisible to me, snapping his bill and scolding repeatedly Mammals Two common native mammal species were detected during the field surveys: California Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi) and Audubon Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii). Tracks of a canid, possibly a Coyote (Canis latrans), were observed along a path on the mesa. DISCUSSION This open space parcel shows evidence of past disturbance, and its isolation from larger natural open spaces reduces its conservation value for native plants and animals. Nonetheless, the site presently supports a pair of threatened California Gnatcatchers, and its wetland and coastal sage scrub habitats are protected by state and federal resource protection laws. The presence of a Red - tailed Hawk on the site in early March suggests that this species nests in the project vicinity and is likely to utilize the site during the breeding season. Thus, loss of this open space area would likely represent a loss of foraging habitat for nesting raptors. If the City is considering development of this parcel, I would offer the following recommendations: Retain a competent, experienced biologist to conduct a full biological assessment of the parcel. This should include mapping and quantification of the sites plant communities, analysis of the potential for additional sensitive plant and animal species to occur on this parcel, and any appropriate focused surveys. For example, the site's seasonal ponds should be sampled for fairy shrimps and rare plants; although none were observed during the initial site survey, these species are typically difficult to detect except through a series of directed surveys over a period of several weeks. Consult with the County of Orange and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to ensure that loss of occupied California Gnatcatcher habitat is handled properly with respect to the Natural Communities Conservation Plan (NCCP) for Central and Coastal Orange County. Rather than completing a full set of six to nine California Gnatcatcher surveys, it may be possible to identify coastal sage scrub on the site as occupied by nesting gnatcatchers, based on the results of this study and perhaps one or two additional follow -up surveys. • Delineate jurisdictional wetlands and consult with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding potential impacts to cat -tail marsh habitat, seasonal ponds, and /or a seasonal swale. • Consult with the California Department of Fish & Game regarding potential impacts to streambeds with defined bed and banks. If a land -swap is considered involving other undeveloped parcels within the City presently zoned for development, it would seem appropriate for such land to be of equal area to the subject parcel, and to support coastal sage scrub occupied by California Gnatcatchers. If land to be swapped for 4 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist the subject parcel does not support native plant communities, then restoration with appropriate, locally native species, should be required. CONCLUSION Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the planning process for this interesting piece of land. If you have any questions regarding this report, or wish to further discuss any issues, please call me at (714) 459 -2875 or send e-mail to robbham@flash.net. Sincerely, Robert A. Hamilton Consulting Biologist Attachments: Map Showing Location of California Gnatcatcher Nesting Pair List of Wildlife Species Observed Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist WILDLIFE SPECIES OBSERVED DEDICATED OPEN SPACE PARCEL AT NEWPORT FASHION ISLAND The following vertebrates were noted in the study area during the current study. Presence may be noted if a species is seen or heard, or identified by the presence of tracks, scat or other signs. *Introduced species A VES BIRDS Accipitridae Hawks Buteo lineatus Red - shouldered Hawk Buteo jamaicensis Red- tailed Hawk Scolopacidae Sandpipers Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe Columbidae Pigeons, Doves Zenaida macroura Mourning Dove Trochilidae Hummingbirds Calypte anna Anna's Hummingbird Selasphorus sasin Allen's Hummingbird Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers Sayomis nigrkans Black Phoebe Corvidae Jays, Crows Corpus brachyrhynchos American Crow Corpus corax Common Raven Monarchidae Monarch Flycatchers Catharus guttatus Hermit Thrush Aegithalidae Bushtits Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit Troglodytidae Wrens Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's Wren Cistothorus palustris Marsh Wren Sylviidae Old World Warblers, Gnatcatchers Pohoptila californica California Gnatcatcher Regulidae Kinglets, Gnatcatchers, Thrushes, Babblers Regulus calendula Ruby- crowned Kinglet Parulidae Wood Warblers Vermivora celata Orange- crowned Warbler Dendroica coronata Yellow- rumped Warbler Geothlypis trichas Common Yellowthroat Emberizidae Melospiza melodia Melospiza lincolnii Zonotrichia leucophrys Fringillidae Carpodacus mexicanus Carduelis psaltria Passeridae " Passer domesticus MAMMALIA Leporidae Sylvilagus audubonii Sciuridae Spermophilus beecheyi Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist Sparrows and Buntings Song Sparrow Lincoln's Sparrow White- crowned Sparrow Finches House Finch Lesser Goldfinch Old World Sparrows House Sparrow MAMMALS Hares, Rabbits Audubon Cottontail Squirrels California Ground Squirrel Taxonomy and nomenclature follow Stebbins (1966)', American Ornithologists' Union (1983)' and Ingles (1965)' 'Stebbins, R.C. 1966. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin, Boston. 'American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. Check -list of North American Birds, sixth edition. Washington, D.C. and supplements through the 41° (1997). Ingles, L.G. 1965. Mammals of the Pacific States. Stanford University Press. Robert A. Hamilton July 16,1998 Stop Polluting Our Newport (SPON) P.O. Box 102 Balboa Island, CA 92662 SUBJECT: FOLLOW -UP REPORT, INITIAL BIOLOGICAL SURVEY DEDICATED OPEN SPACE PARCEL AT NEWPORT FASHION ISLAND NEWPORT VILLAGE SITE Dear SPON, In a letter report dated 26 March 1998;1 provided the methods and results of an initial biological survey of the 12 -acre "Newport Village' project site, located in the City of Newport Beach (City). Subsequently, SPON requested that botanist David Bramlet and I complete follow -up biological surveys on this site. The purpose of these follow -up surveys was to search for additional plant and wildlife species present on the site, and to further observe a pair of Coastal California Gnatcatchers (Polioptila calijbmica californica) previously observed on the site. This follow -up report presents the methods, results, and conclusions of my two biological surveys, and incorporates results of Mr. Bramlet's 1998 botanical survey. METHODS I completed field visits on 7 March and 2 June 1998, and David Bramlet inspected the site on 25 May 1998. Goals of our surveys included (1) characterizing the site's plant communities, including their dominant species plant and overall condition, and (2) identifying plant and animal species present on the site, including sensitive species. We inspected the entire site and made note of each plant and vertebrate wildlife species detected. Observations of sensitive species are discussed, but analysis of sensitive species potentially present on the site is beyond the scope of this preliminary study. SURVEY SUMMARY Date Personnel Time Conditions 7 March 1998 Robert Hamilton 0800-1130 clear; sunny; still; —70- 78 °F 25 May 1998 David Bramlet 0900-1100 not noted 2 June 1998 Robert Hamilton 1200-1300 clear; sunny; wind —8 mph SW; —757 P.O. Box 961 --/ 20611 %z Sycamore Drive v Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678 -�— (714) 459 -2875 ( Phone /Fax) —�— robbham@flash.net �� Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist RESULTS Plant Communities The project site consists of a grassy mesa bordered on the south by a native coastal sage scrub restoration effort, on the east and west by road edges and associated ornamental plantings (in places), and on the north by native coastal sage scrub and two drainages supporting cat -tail marsh vegetation. A total of 42 native and 61 non -native species were detected on the site during the field surveys. The following paragraphs discuss these communities, and their characteristic species, in greater detail. ANNUAL GRASSLAND & SEASONAL WETLANDS The mesa, which accounts for approximately half of this parcel, is vegetated primarily with non- native grasses and (orbs, interspersed with native (orbs and sub - shrubs. Considering the site's location and the species composition, it is likely that the entire mesa was mechanically disturbed in the past. Dominant and locally prevalent non -native species include brome grasses (Bromus diandrus, B. mollis, B. madritensis ssp. rubus), wild oats (Avena spp.), filarees (Erodium spp.), Bermuda - Buttercup (Oxalis pes- caprae), and Black Mustard (Brassica nigra); native species well represented in the site's annual grasslands include Cudweed Aster (Lessingia flaginifolia), Sand Peppergrass (Lepidium lasiocarpum), Rigid Fiddleneck(Ameinckia menziesit),Big Gumplant (Grindelia camporum), Telegraph Weed (Heterotheca grandii lom), and Deer Weed (Lotus scoparius). Vernal Barley (Hordeum intercedens), a sensitive species, occurs in bare loamy -clay areas on the mesa. Two seasonal ponds exist within the site's annual grasslands. The larger of the ponds is at the mesa's northeast comer and covers approximately 0.2 acre. This pond contained water to a maximum depth of approximately six inches during the 7 March 1998 site survey, but had dried by 25 May. The second pond is found along the western edge of the mesa, near the intersection of Avocado and Farallon, and covers approximately 0.1 acre. This pond contained water to a maximum depth of approximately eight inches during the 7 March 1998 site visit, but this pool also had dried by 25 May. These seasonal ponds support a variety of native and non -native plant species adapted to wetland conditions, including Pale Spike -Rush (Eleocharis palustris), Woolly Marbles (Pstlocarphus brevissimus), Vernal Barley, Toad Rush (Juncus bufonius), Curly Dock (Rumex crispus), and Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia). Finally, a seasonally wet swale runs east and west near the southern edge of the mesa; we did not observe surface water within this Swale, but the swale supports African Umbrella -Sedge (Cypems alternifolius), a species adapted to wetland conditions. CAT -TAIL MARSH Cat -tail marshes are found in two perennial drainages that are fed by urban runoff in the northern portion of the site. The site's principal drainage runs east and west, and supports a fairly extensive stand of emergent vegetation, mostly Slender Cat -tail (Typha angustifolia). Also present here are numerous large specimens of Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana) and some shrubby Arroyo Willows (Salix lasiolepis). Approximately half of the emergent vegetation was removed from this drainage 2 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist in February 1998 and stacked near its western terminus. To the north is a north -south trending tributary to the principal drainage; this drainage supports a stringer of cat - tails. Together, these cat- tail marshes appear to cover between 0.5 and 1.0 acre. COASTAL SAGE SCRUB Native coastal sage scrub covers much of the northern half of the site. This community is dominated by California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica) and California Sunflower (Enceha californica), with smaller amounts of Deer Weed, California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), Saw - toothed Goldenbush (Hazardia squarrosa), Coastal Prickly -Pear (Opuntia littoralis), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia), Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), and California Wishbone Bush (Mirabilis californica). These native shrubs provide approximately 80 to 100 percent cover in most areas, but are being encroached upon by invasive exotic species, particularly Hottentot -Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) and Myoporum (Myoporum laetum). The cut -slope at the southern edge of the mesa (behind the Newport Beach Public Library building) is being restored to a coastal sage scrub community comprised mainly of Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), California Sagebrush, California Sunflower, Island Buckwheat (Eriogonum grande), Interior Flat- topped Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum var. foliolosum), and Buff Monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus). Scattered specimens of ceanothus (Ceanothus sp.) are also present. This habitat is perhaps a year or two from reaching full maturity, as the plants are now mostly two to three feet tall. ORNAMENTAL PLANTINGS Manufactured slopes along Avocado Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard have been planted with non -native ornamental groundcover, including Golden Wattle (Acacia pycantha), African Daisy (Dimorphotheca sinuata), and Sweet - Alyssum (Lobularia maritima). Sweet - Alyssum, known to be an invasive exotic weed in southern California and elsewhere, is expanding somewhat into openings in the adjacent coastal sage scrub community. Wildlife This section discusses onlyvertebrate wildlife species observed during the site visits; it was beyond the scope of this preliminary survey to attempt to identify species with potential to occur on the site. Two reptile species were observed: Side - blotched Lizard (Ufa stansburiana) and Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus). 3 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist BIRDS Of the 26 native and one non -native bird species detected during the site surveys, most are common residents such as the Red - tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna), American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans), House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), and Lesser Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria). Winter visitors observed on the site include the Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)', Hermit Thrush (Catharw guttatus), Orange - crowned Warbler (Vermivora celata), Yellow - romped Warbler (Dendroica coronata), and White - crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys). On 7 March and 2 June 1998, a pair of federally threatened Coastal California Gnatcatchers (Polioptila californica californica) was observed in coastal sage scrub habitat located in the northeast portion of the site; these sightings are described subsequently, in the Sensitive Species section. MAMMALS Two common native mammal species were detected during the field surveys: California Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyz) and Audubon Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii). Tracks of a canid, possibly a Coyote (Canis latrans), were observed along a path on the mesa. SENSITIVE SPECIES Sensitive species are plants and animals that are endangered or rare, as those terms are used by CEQA and its Guidelines, or are of current local, regional or state concern. This section lists and briefly discusses the status of each sensitive species that may occur on the site; for bird species, potential for occurrence excludes migrants and rare winter visitors. Legal protection for sensitive species varies widely, from the relatively comprehensive protection extended to listed threatened and endangered species to no legal status at present. The California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), local agencies, and special interest groups such as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) publish watch lists of declining species; some of these lists describe the general nature and perceived severity of the decline. In addition, recently published findings and preliminary results of ongoing research provide a basis for consideration of unlisted species. Finally, species that are not rare or threatened statewide or regionally, but whose local populations are sparse, rapidly dwindling or otherwise unstable, may be considered to be of 'local interest." . The following paragraphs discuss two sensitive plant species and one sensitive wildlife species detected during the course of the site surveys. Several additional sensitive species potentially occur on the site, but analysis of these species is beyond the scope of this preliminary study. 'Observed in cat -tail marsh habitat. Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist Coulter's Saltbush (Atriplex coulter:l Coulter's Saltbush is placed on California Native Plant Society (CNPS) List 1B, which includes species considered by CNPS to be rare or endangered in California and elsewhere. This low, spreading perennial saltbush species is known to occur in coastal bluff and grassland habitats with some alkalinity. Red stems and opposite leaves distinguish Coulters Saltbush from the more common, introduced Australian Saltbush. This species is distributed from Los Angeles County, east to San Bernardino County and south to Baja California. It is most commonly found on the Channel Islands. In Orange County this species has been recorded from Laguna Beach, Pelican Hill, Signal Hill, Trabuco Canyon and Cristianitos Canyon. On 25 May 1998, David Bramlet detected one specimen of Coulter's Saltbush on a bare, eroding slope in the southeast portion of the mesa, growing with Vernal Barley and the introduced Australian Saltbush (Atriplex semibaccata). Vernal Barley (Hordeum intercedens) This annual grass is placed on CNPS List 3, a review list of plants suggested by CNPS for consideration as endangered but about which more information is needed. This species was recently added to this review list due to the continued declines in preferred habitat, the limited collections, and general lack of knowledge related to the difficulty of identifying this grass. Vernal Barley is known from scattered collections throughout a range that extends from San Francisco to Kern County, extending south into Baja California and onto the Channel Islands. In southern California, Vernal Barley is generally known from Riverside County, where it occurs on the Santa Rosa Plateau and in alkali sink grasslands along the San Jacinto River and west of Hemet. In San Diego, Vernal Barley is found adjacent to vernal pools on Otay Mesa, extending northward to Camp Pendleton. This species was only recently recorded in Orange County, where it has been recorded at vernal pools in Costa Mesa (Fairview Park) and clay soil habitats at the U.C. Irvine Ecological Reserve, near Quail Hill (Irvine), and at several locales near the county's southern border. On 25 May 1998, David Bran-Jet detected limited numbers of Vernal Barley (fewer than 100 plants) in bare loamy -clay areas on the mesa, and in the site's seasonally wet ponds. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) The Coastal California Gnatcatcher is a federally threatened bird species that is considered a California Species of Special Concern. This species formerly occupied coastal sage scrub and coastal bluff scrub communities from Ventura County south to northwestern Baja California. It is now absent from much of its former range. In Orange County, Coastal California Gnatcatchers occupy coastal sage scrub and similar native associations on gentle to moderate slopes south and east of the Santa Ana River. The major populations are.located near the coast, in the Fullerton Hills, on the coastal slope of Loma Ridge and in the southern foothills. 5 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist On 7 March 1998, I observed a pair of Coastal California Gnatcatchers in coastal sage scrub habitat located in the northeast portion of the site (see attached map). I followed the male for over an hour, and during brief views of the secretive female, I could see that she was carrying nesting material. On 2 June 1998, I observed this pair again for approximately 10 minutes, and did not detect any juveniles. DISCUSSION Although this open space parcel is physically isolated from larger open space areas and shows evidence of past disturbance, it retains a mosaic of habitats that includes seasonal and perennial wetlands, coastal sage scrub and grasslands. The site'swetland and coastal sage scrub communities are subject to specific state and federal resource protection laws. The site's plant communities provide habitat for a variety of native plants, reptiles, birds and mammals. In particular, the presence of two biologically sensitive plant species, and attempted nesting by a pair of Coastal California Gnatcatchers attests to the site's value as natural open space. The presence of a Red - tailed Hawk on the site in early March suggests that this species nests in the project vicinity and is likely to utilize the site during the breeding season. Thus, loss of this open space area would likely represent a loss of foraging habitat for nesting raptors. If the City is considering development of this parcel, I would offer the following recommendations: Retain a competent, experienced biologist to conduct a full biological assessment of the parcel. This should include mapping and quantifying the site's plant communities, analysis of the potential for additional sensitive plant and animal species to occur on this parcel, and any appropriate focused surveys. For example, the site's seasonal ponds should be sampled for fairy shrimps and rare plants; although none were observed during the site surveys, these species are typically difficult to detect except through a series of directed surveys over a period of several weeks. Consult with the County of Orange and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to ensure that loss of occupied California Gnatcatcher habitat is handled properly with respect to the Natural Communities Conservation Plan (NCCP) for Central and Coastal Orange County. Rather than completing a full set of six to nine California Gnatcatcher surveys, it may be possible to identify coastal sage scrub on the site as occupied by nesting gnatcatchers, based on the results of this survey and perhaps one or two additional follow -up surveys. Delineate jurisdictional wetlands and consult with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding_ potential impacts to cat -tail marsh habitat, seasonal ponds, and /or a seasonal swale. Consult with the California Department of Fish & Game regarding potential impacts to streambeds with defined bed and banks. If the City considers swapping this land for one or more parcels located elsewhere in the City, it would seem appropriate for such land to 1) presently be zoned for development (not open space), r . . Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist 2) be of equal area to the subject parcel, and 3) support wetlands, sensitive plant species, and coastal sage scrub occupied by nesting California Gnatcatchers. If any land considered for swapping for the subject parcel includes degraded plant communities, then restoration with appropriate, locally native species should be required prior to removal of habitat from the subject parcel. CONCLUSION Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the planning process for this interesting piece of land. If you have any questions regarding this report, or wish to further discuss any issues, please call me at (949) 459 -2875 or send e-mail to robbham@flash.net. Sincerely, q44Ar'A -� Robert A. Hamilton Consulting Biologist Attachments: Map Showing Location of California Gnatcatcher Nesting Pair Appendix A - Plant Species Observed Appendix B - Wildlife Species Observed \�IEll I M IN Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Bidogist APPENDIX A PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED DEDICATED OPEN SPACE PARCEL AT NEWPORT FASHION ISLAND The following plant species were detected on the project site during the current study. • Introduced species ANTHOPHYTA: DICOTYLEDONES DICOT FLOWERING PLANTS Aizoaceae Carpet -Weed Family • Carpobrotus edulis Hottentot -Fig • Mesembryanthemum nodii forum Small- flowered Ice Plant Amaranthaceae Amaranth Family • Amaranthus albus Tumbling Pigweed Apiaceae Carrot Family Daucus pusillus Rattlesnake Weed Foeniculum vulgare Sweet Fennel Asteraceae Sunflower Family Artemisia californica California Sagebrush Baccharis pilularis ssp. consanguinea Coyote Brush Baccharis sallclfoha Mulefat • Carduus pycnocephalus Italian Thistle • Centaurea melitensis Tocalote • Chrysanthemum coronatum Garland Chrysanthemum Conyza canadensis Common Horseweed • Cotula coronopifolia African Brass - Buttons • Dimorphotheca sinuata African Daisy Encelia californica California Encelia Filago californica California Filago • Filago gallica Narrow- leaved Filago • Gazania linearis Gazania Gnaphalium beneolens Fragrant Everlasting Grindelia camporum Big Gumplant • Hedypnois cretica Crete Hedypnois Hemizonia fasciculata Fascicled Tarweed Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraph Weed • Hypochoerisglabra Smooth Cat's Ear Isocoma menziesii Coastal Goldenbush Lessingia fdaginifolia Cudweed Aster Psilocarphus brevissimus Woolly Marbles • Sonchus asper Prickly Sow - Thistle • Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow - Thistle Stephanomeria virgata Tall Stephanomeria Boraginaceae Amsinckia menziesii Heliotropium curassavicum ssp. oculatum Brassicaceae • Brassica nigra • Coronopus didymus • Hirschfeldia incana Lepidium lasiocarpum • Lobularia maritima • Raphanus sativus Cactaceae Opuntia littoralis Capparaceae Isomeris arborea Caryophyllaceae • Polycarpon tetraphyllum • Spergula arvensis Spergularia marina Chenopodiaceae Atriplex coulteri • Atriplex semibaccata • Chenopodium murale • Salsola tragus Convolvulaceae Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia * Convolvulus aroensis Crassulaceae Crassula connata Cucurbitaceae Cucurbita foetidissima Marah macrocarpus Euphorbiaceae Chamaesyce serpyllifolia Eremocarpus setiger Fabaceae * Acacia pycantha Lotus hamatus Lotus scoparius Lotus unifoliolatus Lupinus bicolor Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist Borage Family Rigid Fiddleneck Salt Heliotrope Mustard Family Black Mustard Lesser Wart -Cress Shortpod Mustard Sand Peppergrass Sweet - Alyssum Wild Radish Cactus Family Coastal Prickly -Pear Caper Family Bladderpod Pink Family Four - leaved Polycarp Com Spurrey Salt Marsh Sand Spurry Goosefoot Family Coulter's Saltbush Australian Saltbush Nettle - leaved Goosefoot Russian- Thistle Morning -glory Family Short-lobed Morning -Glory Field Bindweed Stonecrop Family Pigmy Sand Weed Gourd Family Coyote Gourd Wild Cucumber Spurge Family Thyme - leaved Spurge Doveweed Pea Family Golden Wattle San Diego Lotus Coastal Deerweed Spanish Lotus Bicolored Lupine A -2 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist • Medicago polymorpha var. polymorpha Bur- Clover • Melilotus indica Yellow Sweetclover Geraniaceae Geranium Family • Erodium botrys Long -beaked Filaree • Erodium cicutarium Red - stemmed Filaree Lamiaceae Mint Family Salvia mellifera Black Sage Lythraceae Loosestrife Family * Lythrum hyssopifolium Grass Poly Myoporaceae Myoporum Family * Myoporum laetum Myoporum Myhaceae Myrtle Family * Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum Onagraceae Evening - Primrose Family * Oenothera sp. Evening - Primrose (planted) Oxalidaceae Wood - sorrel Family * Oxalis pes- caprae Bermuda- Buttercup Plantaginaceae Plantain Family • Plantago coronopus Cut -leaf Plantain • Plantago erecta ssp. californica California Plantain Plumbaginaceae Leadwort Family * Limonium perezii Perez's Sea - Lavender (planted) Polygonaceae Buckwheat Family • Eriogonum grande Island Buckwheat (planted) Eriogonum fasciculatum var. foliolosum Interior Flat- topped Buckwheat • Polygonum arenastrum Yard Knotweed • Rumex crispus Curly Dock Primulaceae Primrose Family * Anagallis ammsis Scarlet Pimpernel Rhamnaceae Buckthorn Family * Ceanothus sp. ceanothus (planted) Salicaceae Willow Family Salix lasiolepis Arroyo Willow Scrophulariaceae Figwort Family Mimulus aurantiacus Bush Monkeyflower A -3 Solanaceae • Nicotiana glauca • Solanum americanum ANGIOSPERMAE: MONOCOTYLEDONAE Cyperaceae ' Cyperus alternifolius Cyperus eragrostis Eleocharis palustris Juncaceae Juncus bufonius Poaceae • Avena barbata • Avenafatua • Brachypodium distachyon • Bromus diandrus • Bromus hordeaceus • Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens • Cortaderia selloana • Cynodon dactylon Hordeum intercedens • Hordeum murinum ssp. leporinum Nassella sp. • Paspalum dilatatum • Poa annua • Polypogon monspeliensis • Schismus barbatus • Setaria pumila • Vulpia myuros Typhaceae Typha domingensts Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist Nightshade Family Tree Tobacco Small- flowered Nightshade MONOCOT FLOWERING PLANTS Sedge Family African Umbrella -Sedge Tall Umbrella -Sedge Pale Spike -Rush Rush Family Toad Rush Grass Family Slender Wild Oat Common Wild Oat Purple False Brome Common Ripgut Grass Soft Chess Foxtail Chess Selloa Pampas Grass Bermuda Grass Vernal Barley Hare Barley Needlegrass Dallis Grass Annual Bluegrass Rabbitfoot Grass Mediterranean Schismus Yellow Bristlegrass Foxtail Fescue Cat -tail Family Slender Cat -Tail Taxonomy and scientific nomenclature follows Mckman (1993)1; common names primarily follow Roberts (1998). 'Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley and Los Angeles. ZRoberts, F. M. Jr. 1998. A Checklist of the Vascular Plants of Orange County, California, Second Edition. F. M. Roberts Publications, Encinitas. A -4 Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist APPENDIX B WILDLIFE SPECIES OBSERVED DEDICATED OPEN SPACE PARCEL AT NEWPORT FASHION ISLAND The following reptiles, birds and mammals were detected in the study area during the current study. Presence maybe noted if a species is seen or heard, or identified by the presence of tracks, scat or other signs. *Introduced species REPTILIA REPTILES Iguanidae Iguanid Lizards i,lta stansburiana Side - blotched Lizard Scincidae Skinks Eumeces skiltonianus Western Skink AYES BIRDS Cathartidae New World Vultures Cathartes aura Turkey Vulture Accipitridae Hawks Buteo lineatus Red- shouldered Hawk Buteo jamaieensis Red - tailed Hawk ScoIopacidae Sandpipers Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe Columbidae Pigeons, Doves Zenaida macroura Mourning Dove Trochilidae Hummingbirds Calypte anna Anna's Hummingbird Selasphorus sasin Allen's Hummingbird Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers Sayornis nigricans Black Phoebe Corvidae jays, Crows Corpus brachyrhynchos American Crow Corpus corax Common Raven Monarchidae Monarch Flycatchers Catharus guttatus Hermit Thrush Aegithalidae Bushtits Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit Robert A. Hamilton, Consulting Biologist Troglodytidae Wrens Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's Wren Cistothorus palustris Marsh Wren Sylviidae Old World Warblers, Gnatcatchers Polioptila californica California Gnatcatcher Regulidae Kinglets, Gnatcatchers, Thrushes, Babblers Regulus calendula Ruby - crowned Kinglet Mimidae Thrashers Mimus polyglottos Northern Mockingbird Parulidae Wood Warblers Vermivora celata Orange - crowned Warbler Dendroica coronata Yellow - rumped Warbler Geothlypis trichas Common Yellowthroat Emberizidae Sparrows and Buntings Pipilo crissalis California Towhee Melospiza melodia Song Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln's Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys White- crowned Sparrow Fringillidae Finches Carpodacus mexicanus House Finch Carduelis psaltria Lesser Goldfinch Passeridae Old World Sparrows * Passer domesticus House Sparrow MAMMALIA MAMMALS Leporidae Hares, Rabbits Sylvdagus audubonii Audubon Cottontail Sciuridae Squirrels Spermophilus beecheyi California Ground Squirrel Taxonomy and nomenclature follow Stebbins (1966)1, American Ornithologists' Union (1983)1 and Ingles (1965)3. 'Stebbins, R.C. 1966. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin, Boston. 'American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. Check -list of North American Birds, sixth edition. Washington, D.C. and supplements through the 41' (1997). 31ngles, L.G. 1965. Mammals of the Pacific States. Stanford University Press. b AY, JUNE 29, 2000 USH ding @m wised by asurance for what a perpet- .kmbush IS Page 8 WHAT'S NEXT ► Gov. Gray Davis will appoint a successor, who must be approved by the Legislature. ► Attorney General Bill Lodcyer will continue to investigate. ► Legislature will discus reforms Details on News 8 ALSO INSIDE ► 040NOWGY. Key events in the scandal surrouncli g the insurance commissioner. News 8 ► PUBLIC A Web site that made it vary for people to contact kwmkers helped bring about the. resignation. News 8 ► HISTORY: Past sandals that invoW stale Officials and lawmakers. Hews 8 Z3 CEN75 ■ HYUGA Anv Js:�11v1% vv..., %�-f -4?rsYF�Q- &-ZR- caO FROM PRIVATE RANCH TO PUBLIC PARKLAND The Irvine Co. has developed its former ranchland and also set asiideparcels as permanent vdld habitat ' and open space. A new plan announced Wednesday byte Irvine Co. would provide. f20 inillron to improve public access on Sows: The Wine co. The Change County Register $20 million will enhance wilderness ENVIRONMENT: Improved trails and natural- resource.. protection aretamong priorities of tine Irvine Co. project. By PAT BRENNAN The Orange County Register More than 33,000 acres of wild country, including stun ning canyons and oak wood- lands, would be made more accessible to hnicers, bikers and horseback riders under a $20 million plan announced Wednesday by the Irvine Co. The land includes 14,000 acres of former Irvine Co. property that already has been turned over to the pub - lic,'and 19,600 acres that will be given to the public in the future. The. funding is anoth- er in a series of steps that are tinning the company s once private ranch land into public parks and open space. The plan will provide $10 million m grants to public. agencies and nonprofit orga- nizations that want to build trails, ecectinterpretive signs explaining aspects of nature, provide public education or restore damaged habitat on 14,000 acres that already be- long to the public, said Mon- ica Florian, an Irvine Co. se- nior vice president "It's allowing the public to enjoy these resources more personally and more di- The Homier $10 mmron will be used to prepare what is now private acreage for pub- lic use. Scattered across the Please see IRVINE CO. Page 23 IMPROVEMENTS - v e:, _ � r Sows: The Wine co. The Change County Register $20 million will enhance wilderness ENVIRONMENT: Improved trails and natural- resource.. protection aretamong priorities of tine Irvine Co. project. By PAT BRENNAN The Orange County Register More than 33,000 acres of wild country, including stun ning canyons and oak wood- lands, would be made more accessible to hnicers, bikers and horseback riders under a $20 million plan announced Wednesday by the Irvine Co. The land includes 14,000 acres of former Irvine Co. property that already has been turned over to the pub - lic,'and 19,600 acres that will be given to the public in the future. The. funding is anoth- er in a series of steps that are tinning the company s once private ranch land into public parks and open space. The plan will provide $10 million m grants to public. agencies and nonprofit orga- nizations that want to build trails, ecectinterpretive signs explaining aspects of nature, provide public education or restore damaged habitat on 14,000 acres that already be- long to the public, said Mon- ica Florian, an Irvine Co. se- nior vice president "It's allowing the public to enjoy these resources more personally and more di- The Homier $10 mmron will be used to prepare what is now private acreage for pub- lic use. Scattered across the Please see IRVINE CO. Page 23