Chapter 1 - Caltrans - State of California

Chapter 3 Comments and Coordination
project. For the residents, the proposed additions would not interfere with their views of
the Pacific Ocean, which are highly valued. The soundwall and emergency gate may
partially impede the views of the coastal bluffs. However, the residents may not have
high sensitivity to changes in the views of the coastal bluffs compared to views of the
ocean since their residences are oriented towards the ocean. For the drivers, the
installation of the emergency crash gate would partially obscure views of the coastal
bluffs for motorists heading south. The soundwalls along the freeway are noticeable for
drivers heading southbound or northbound. Motorists traveling may not have a clear view
of the Cliff House Inn because of the proposed soundwalls. Overall change in visual
character and visual quality is expected to be moderate.
Construction/Temporary Impacts
Construction impacts associated with the proposed project would result from staging
area, warning signage, potential on-site equipment storage, and possible construction at
night that may require additional lighting. These construction activities may obscure
views from residents, drivers, and cyclists. However, all these changes are temporary
and necessary in the interest of safety during construction for workers and drivers.
Therefore, due to the temporary nature of the impacts, the loss of views and visual quality
during construction is not considered to be adverse.
Avoidance, Minimization and/or Mitigation Measures
The implementation of the mitigation measures listed below would decrease the visual
impact resulting from the proposed HOV lanes, concrete barriers and soundwalls. The
following project considerations would be incorporated to minimize impacts and ensure
compatibility with local policies and the surrounding visual environment:
• The decision on noise abatement measures (such as soundwalls) would be made by
the project proponent, considering the results of the reasonableness determination and
information collected during the public input process. The opinions of the affected
property owners would be considered in reaching a final decision on the
recommended noise abatement measures. Noise abatement within the State right-ofway
would not be provided if more than 50% of the affected property owners do not
want it.
• Retain as much existing vegetation as possible or plant vegetation in the median such
as shrubs up to 4 to 5 feet tall as feasible.
• Soundwalls would be planted as feasible with wall vines to soften their appearance
and reduce associated visual impact.
120 IS/EA VEN-SB US101 HOV Project