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Environmental Impact Statement - Sonoma Land Trust

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California Department of Fish and Game<br />

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service<br />

Section 3.14. Aesthetics<br />

<strong>Impact</strong> AE-1: Changes in Views from a Designated Scenic<br />

Corridor<br />

Proposed Project<br />

Designated scenic corridors in the project vicinity include Lakeville Highway,<br />

Highway 37, and Highway 121. However, the project site cannot be seen from<br />

Highway 121.<br />

The proposed elements associated with the restoration would not result in<br />

degraded views from these scenic corridors. The existing general plan policies<br />

are principally concerned with adverse visual effects related to new development,<br />

and the Project consists of habitat restoration. The primary visual element that<br />

would be added under the Project would be the new core levee south of the<br />

SMART rail line. This visual change would have a limited effect on long-range<br />

views from adjacent highways, and would not affect foreground or mid-range<br />

views. Since the Project does not propose to develop the site and is not<br />

substantially changing views from adjacent designated scenic corridors, this<br />

impact is considered less than significant, and no mitigation is required.<br />

Conclusion: Less than Significant.<br />

Full-Tidal Alternative<br />

The Full-Tidal Alternative would not include new development, as it would<br />

consist of habitat restoration similar to the Project. However, the primary visual<br />

elements that would be added under the Full-Tidal Alternative include a<br />

replacement levee incorporating the SMART rail line and Bay Trail extension<br />

segments, as well as new perimeter levees along Highway 37 and Reclamation<br />

Road. The new levees located along Highway 37 and Reclamation Road would<br />

extend approximately 12 feet above the existing road grade and would obstruct<br />

foreground and mid-range views into the tidal restoration area from designated<br />

scenic corridors.<br />

The primary determinant of change in views is the height of the new levees,<br />

which are designed to protect the adjacent roadways and rail line from tidal flows<br />

introduced into the site. Since levee height is designed for flood protection,<br />

lowering the levees is not considered feasible. This impact is therefore<br />

considered significant and unavoidable.<br />

Conclusion: Significant and Unavoidable.<br />

Sears Point Wetland and Watershed Restoration<br />

Project Final <strong>Environmental</strong> <strong>Impact</strong><br />

Report/<strong>Environmental</strong> <strong>Impact</strong> <strong>Statement</strong><br />

3.14-6<br />

April 2012

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