Issue/Resource Topic

AIR-1: Fugitive Dust Emissions. The Project proposes to use fugitive dust suppression with water and other methods to control construction-related emissions. The use of chemical additives is not planned. Controlled worst-case fugitive dust is estimated to be 29 pounds per day; 0.32 tons per month; and 2.6 tons over the 27- to 30-month construction period for the San Francisco site. Without fugitive dust control measures the impact is considered potentially significant.

AIR-1: Fugitive Dust Controls. Best achievable control measures (BACM) shall be utilized during construction phases of the Project. Fugitive dust control measures are stipulated by BAAQMD Regulation 6 (BAAQMD, 1999) and shall include all of the following as applicable to the Project site:

• Water all active construction areas at least twice daily
• Cover all trucks hauling soil, sand, and other loose materials or require all trucks to maintain at least two feet of freeboard
• Pave, apply water three times daily, or apply (non-toxic) soil stabilizers on all unpaved access roads, parking areas and staging areas at construction sites
• Sweep daily (with water sweepers) all paved access roads, parking areas, and staging areas at construction sites
• Sweep streets daily (with water sweepers) if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent public streets
• Hydroseed or apply (non-toxic) soil stabilizers to inactive construction areas (previously graded areas inactive for 10 days or more)
• Enclose, cover, water twice daily or apply (non-toxic) soil binders to exposed stockpiles (dirt, sand, etc.)
• Install sandbags or other erosion control measures to prevent silt runoff to public roadways
• No vehicle shall exceed 10 miles per hour speed limit within the construction site
• The construction site entrance shall be posted with visible speed limit signs
• All construction vehicle tires shall be inspected and washed as necessary to be cleaned free of dirt prior to entering public roadways
• Gravel ramps of at least 20 feet in length must be provided at the tire washing/cleaning station
• All unpaved exits from the construction site shall be graveled to prevent track out to public roadways
• All construction vehicles shall enter the construction site through the graveled roadways, unless an alternative route has been submitted to and approved for use by the City
• At least the first 500 feet of any public roadway exiting from the construction site shall be swept at least twice daily (or less during periods of precipitation) on days when construction activity occurs or on any other day when dirt or runoff from the construction site is visible on the public roadways

Less than significant

AIR-2: Equipment Exhaust Emissions. See Table 4.2-10 for emissions estimates for the San Francisco HWC (Mitigated) Converter Station site. The impact of these emissions would be considered to be potentially significant.

AIR-2: Exhaust Controls. The following controls pertaining to equipment emissions (BAAQMD, 1999) shall be implemented during construction to reduce emissions from construction equipment exhaust:

• Use alternative fueled construction equipment, as practical.
• Minimize idling time.
• Maintain properly tuned equipment.
• Limit the hours of operation of heavy duty equipment and/or the amount of equipment in use.
• All diesel-fueled engines used in the construction of the facility shall be fueled only with ultra-low sulfur diesel, which contains no more than 15 ppm sulfur.
• All diesel-fueled engines used in the construction of the facility shall have clearly visible tags showing that the engine meets the conditions set forth herein.
• All construction diesel engines, which have a rating of 100 horsepower (hp) or more, shall meet, at a minimum, the Tier 2 California Emission Standards for Off-road Compression-ignition Engines as specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 13, section 2423(b)(1). In the event a Tier 2 engine is not available for any off-road engine larger than 100 hp, that engine shall be equipped with a Tier 1 engine. In the event a Tier 1 engine is not available for any off-road engine larger than 100 hp, that engine shall be equipped with a catalyzed diesel particulate filter (soot filter), unless certified by engine manufacturers that the use of such devices is not practical for specific engine types. For purposes of this condition, the use of such devices is "not practical" if, among other reasons:
• There is no available soot filter that has been certified by either the California Air Resources Board or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the engine in question.
• The construction equipment is intended to be on-site for ten (10) days or less.
• The City may grant relief from this requirement if the construction contractor can demonstrate that they have made a good faith effort to comply with this requirement and that compliance is not possible.
• The use of a soot filter may be terminated immediately if one of the following conditions exists, provided that the City is informed within ten (10) working days of the termination:
• The use of the soot filter is excessively reducing normal availability of the construction equipment due to increased time for maintenance, and/or reduced power output due to an excessive increase in backpressure.
• The soot filter is causing or is reasonably expected to cause significant engine damage.
• The soot filter is causing or is reasonably expected to cause a significant risk to workers or the public.
• Any other seriously detrimental cause which has the approval of the City prior to the termination being implemented.
• All heavy earthmoving equipment and heavy duty construction related trucks with engines meeting the requirements of (c) above shall be properly maintained and the engines tuned to the engine manufacturer's specifications.
• All diesel heavy construction equipment shall not remain running idle for more than five minutes, to the extent practical.

Less than significant

GEO-1: Soil Erosion and Compaction. Construction activities would lead to soil compaction and could lead to soil erosion. This impact is considered to be potentially significant.

GEO-1: Design Project for Erosion Control. Standard Best Management Practices (BMPs) shall be incorporated into the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) for construction and operation, and shall minimize onsite soil erosion and offsite sedimentation. Temporary erosion control measures shall be required during the construction period to help maintain water quality, protect property from erosion damage, and prevent accelerated soil erosion or dust generation.

Less than significant

GEO-2: Asbestos-containing Serpentine. The San Francisco site is potentially underlain with asbestos-containing soils and rocks. Asbestos could be released during construction phases at the San Francisco sites. Asbestos is a human health hazard when airborne. This is considered a potentially significant impact.

GEO-2: Controls for Excavation of Serpentine. Prior to Project construction, previously-prepared geotechnical reports and boring and trenching logs from the site would be reviewed to identify areas of serpentinite bedrock that would be disturbed during excavation and Project construction. An Asbestos Dust Mitigation Plan would be submitted to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) for approval in accordance with the Final Regulation Order Asbestos Airborne Toxic Control Measure for Construction, Grading, Quarrying, and Surface Mining Operations.

Less than significant

GEO-3: Strong Ground Shaking. There is a high risk of strong ground shaking in the event of a large earthquake in the area. This impact is considered potentially significant.

GEO-3: Design to Seismic Design Requirements. Due to the site's proximity to earthquake faults and the characteristics of the soil profile, a site-specific study shall be conducted to develop seismic design criteria. Project facilities shall be designed and constructed at a minimum to the seismic design requirements for ground shaking specified in the Uniform Building Code for Seismic Zone 4. Additionally, to satisfy the provisions of the 1998 California Building Code, these facilities shall be designed to withstand ground motions equating to approximately a 500-year return period (10 percent probability of exceedance in 50 years). For design purposes, site-specific ground motions shall be calculated for all project sites.

Less than significant

GEO-4: Liquefaction. There is a potential for liquefaction at the Project site. This impact is considered potentially significant.

GEO-4: Design Project for Liquefiable Deposits. A site-specific program of exploratory borings and accompanying laboratory testing shall be required in order to delineate potentially liquefiable materials beneath the construction area. Geotechnical investigations shall be required for consideration prior to foundation design and development of site-specific design criteria.

Less than significant

GEO-5: Shrink-Swell/Subsistence. The proposed San Francisco HWC (Mitigated) Converter Station site is potentially underlain with expansive soils, which requires specific attention during grading to avoid future heaving and cracking of overlying materials. The potential for damage due to shrink-swell/subsidence to site facilities is potentially significant.

GEO-5: Design Project for Shrink-Swell/Subsistence. A program of site-specific exploratory borings and accompanying laboratory testing shall be required to delineate any potentially expansive materials underneath the proposed Project facility sites and to evaluate the potential for site subsidence and identify and implement appropriate design measures (e.g. pile supports or replacement of undesirable materials) in accordance with applicable codes.

Less than significant

WATER-1: Erosion and Contaminated Runoff. Erosion and contaminated runoff during construction and operation could significantly impact water quality within San Francisco Bay. This is considered a potentially significant impact.

WATER-1: Erosion Control and Contaminant Source Control. Apply for and comply with NPDES construction permit, and Industrial Activities General Permit. Requirements for the permits include submittal of a Notice of Intent, development of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), monitoring and inspections, and submittal of annual compliance reports.

Less than significant

WATER-2: Surface Water Quality Impacts from HDD. HDD could have significant water quality impacts through loss of drilling fluids and disruption of Bay bottom sediment at the sediment surface where the borehole emerges. This is considered a potentially significant impact.

WATER-2: Spill Prevention and Control Plan for HDD. Drilling shall be performed in accordance with a site-specific Spill Prevention and Control (SPCC) Plan for HDD Operations for Drill Fluids and Cuttings. Spill response measures included in this plan, should a spill occur, shall include reducing fluid pressures, thickening the fluid mixture, and/or adding pre-approved loss circulation materials (LCMs) to the mixture.

Less than significant

WATER-3: Groundwater Quality Impacts from HDD. HDD could have significant water quality impacts through loss of drilling fluids that would increase suspended material in groundwater. This would be considered a potentially significant impact.

WATER-3: Use of Pilot Hole and Reaming. HDD shall be performed using a pilot hole plus reaming technique to minimize the potential for impacts to groundwater. To prevent significant water quality impacts, drilling muds shall consist of naturally occurring materials such as water and bentonite clay, plus inert, non-toxic polymers.

Both the drilling technique and early detection and response shall be used to minimize release of fluids to the environment. HDD shall start with completion of a small-diameter pilot hole. The pilot hole is gradually enlarged using reaming. This technique acts to prevent sudden loss of large volumes of drilling fluids.

Early detection and rapid response shall be implemented to minimize loss of drilling fluids. In the event loss of drilling fluids is detected, natural LCMs such as cotton dust, cottonseed hulls, wood fiber, mica, and cedar fiber shall be added to the drilling fluid. Alternative actions that shall be considered and implemented, as required, include reduction in drilling pressure, thickening of the fluid mixture, and construction of spill control structures, pits, and silt fences onshore, or silt curtains offshore.

Less than significant

CUL-1: Disturbance of Archaeological Resources. Buried historical resources may exist on the HWC (Mitigated) site and Mirant Potrero Power Plant site. Construction of the AC cable route from the converter station across the power plant property to the PG&E Potrero substation may disturb these resources. This is considered a potentially significant impact.

CUL-1a: Archeological Resource Testing. Due to the potential for buried cultural resources within the Mirant Potrero Power Plant portion of the Project area, it is recommended that subsurface survey (i.e., testing) of the cable route across the plant utilizing mechanical exploratory borings be initiated prior to construction activities. The subsurface survey should be implemented as a means to determine the presence and extent of buried archaeological resources within the plant area as well as to evaluate the potential significance of any resources encountered. Identified remains would be evaluated against the NRHP/CRHR significance criteria. If the resources are not eligible for the NRHP/CRHR, then no further consideration of these resources would be required. If the resources are eligible for the NRHP/CRHR, additional mitigation measures may be required.

The testing program would be documented within a technical report. The report would include the aforementioned resource evaluations, if any, and provide recommendations for the further management of cultural resources. Such recommendations could include data recovery excavations as well as the monitoring of all ground-disturbing activities associated with the project.

CUL-1b: Archaeological Resource Data Recovery. Based upon the results of the testing program, it may be necessary that a data recovery excavation be implemented. CEQA stipulates that if avoidance of the important archaeological resource is not feasible, a data recovery excavation may be warranted. When data recovery through excavation is the only feasible mitigation, a data recovery plan, which makes provisions for adequately recovering the scientifically consequential information from and about the resource, shall be prepared and adopted prior to any excavation being undertaken. The development of this plan, as well as the implementation of field work, would be conducted in consultation with the SHPO, and, if the site is of aboriginal association, with the NAHC and local Native American community as well.

CUL-1c: Archaeological Resource Construction Monitoring. Following completion of the archaeological testing efforts, it may be determined that construction monitoring is necessary to prevent significant impacts to important cultural resources. In the event monitoring is warranted, a qualified professional archaeologist shall be retained to observe all ground-disturbing activities associated with the Project. If archaeological materials are observed by the monitoring archaeologist, he/she would have the authority to halt all ground-disturbing activities within the vicinity of the exposed materials until the nature and significance of the find could be evaluated and mitigation measures implemented, if needed. The development of mitigation measures would be conducted in consultation with SHPO and, if the site is of aboriginal association, with the NAHC and local Native American community as well.

Less than significant

TRAFFIC-1: Cumulative Traffic Impacts. Project-related trips to and from the HWC (Mitigated) Converter Station site would contribute to delays on the regional roadway system, a potentially significant impact.

TRAFFIC-1: Coordination to Reduce Cumulative Traffic Impacts. Truck shipments on the regional roadway shall be scheduled for non-peak periods when delays are less prevalent, as practical. The construction contractor shall coordinate with Caltrans to identify appropriate routings and times for site deliveries and comply with Caltrans recommendations. This mitigation measure would successfully mitigate the Project's contribution to cumulative impacts occurring on the regional roadway system.

Less than significant

TRAFFIC-2: Oversized Loads. Oversized shipments would require a permit from Caltrans that identifies the permitted hours of operation and the size of the truck to transport the shipment on the regional roadway network. If the permit conditions were not followed adequately, this would constitute a potentially significant adverse impact.

TRAFFIC-2: Coordination of Oversized Loads. Coordination with Caltrans and local jurisdictions shall be conducted to ensure proper permitting for oversized loads, which shall be required in advance of construction.

Less than significant

TRAFFIC-3: Temporary Street Closures Affecting Traffic, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Circulation. The temporary closure of streets for Project-related construction would affect traffic circulation in the study area and may impede the delivery and access to businesses in the area and the use of the Bay Trail and bicycle circulation for short intervals. This impact is considered to be potentially significant.

TRAFFIC-3: Signage for Temporary Street Closures. Any needed temporary closure of local streets in San Francisco will be mitigated by coordinating street closures with the San Francisco Department of Parking and Traffic (DPT) and, if appropriate, erecting signage that reroutes traffic onto neighboring streets. The coordination would account for providing continued access for emergency vehicles in the study area and ensure that the City of San Francisco's Emergency Operations Plan could be activated without impediment. With these mitigation measures, temporary construction impacts on traffic circulation would be mitigated to a less-than-significant level.

Less than significant

TRAFFIC-4: Impacts on Metro East Light Rail Facility. If truck shipments were destined for the proposed laydown area (Western Pacific site) at the same time MUNI begins using 25th Street to dispatch light rail vehicles to Third Street, they could conflict with the most active light rail dispatch and return hours at the beginning and end of the peak periods. This is considered to be a potentially significant impact.

Mitigation Measure TRAFFIC-4: Reducing Impact on the Movement of MUNI Light Rail Vehicles into and out of the Metro East Maintenance Facility. The Project laydown area located at Pier 94/96 is the preferred laydown area. As indicated in Section 4.10.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR, Construction-related Impacts, truck deliveries to the Pier 94/96 laydown area would not produce significant impacts along Cargo Way and would avoid a potential conflict with the movement of MUNI light rail vehicles along 25^th Street. If the Western Pacific site were used as an alternative laydown area, the Construction contractor will coordinate with MUNI, Port of San Francisco, and the Department of Parking and Traffic to minimize delays to MUNI Metro operation and to define times for scheduling of truck deliveries if the truck deliveries were to occur during the peak period.

Less than significant

PS-1: Construction Fire Hazards. Without appropriate precautions, construction activities requiring the use of flammable and combustible materials could create fire hazards. The potential to increase fire events could affect the level of service by the fire department to the surrounding area. This impact is considered potentially significant.

PS-1: Construction Fire Prevention. A Construction Fire Prevention and Protection Program shall be developed for the Project to be followed throughout all phases of construction. The program will specifically address:

• General requirements
• Responsibilities
• Housekeeping
• Employee alarm/communication system
• Portable fire extinguishers
• Fixed fire-fighting equipment
• Fire control
• Flammable and combustible liquid storage
• Use and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
• Servicing and refueling areas
• Training

Less than significant

PS-2: Existing Onshore Underground Utilities. Without appropriate precautions, installation of proposed underground utility lines could impact existing underground utilities and public service connections. This impact would be considered potentially significant.

PS-2: Utility Survey. Prior to any excavation work a survey shall be conducted to identify locations of subsurface utilities.

Less than significant

PS-3: Operations Fire Hazards. Without appropriate precautions, operations requiring the use of flammable and combustible materials could induce fire hazards. The potential to increase fire events could affect the level of service by the fire department to the surrounding area. This impact is considered potentially significant.

PS-3: Operations Fire Prevention. An Operations Fire Prevention and Protection Program shall be developed for the Project to be followed throughout all phases of operation. The program will specifically address:

• Names and/or job titles responsible for maintaining equipment and accumulation of flammable or combustible material
• Procedures in the event of fire
• Fire alarm and protection equipment
• System and equipment maintenance
• Monthly inspections
• Annual inspections
• Fire-fighting demonstrations and training
• Housekeeping practices
• Training

Less than significant

VIS-1A: Converter Station Domination of View. Since the architectural design character of the building and the general character of proposed landscaping have not been identified in detail, there is the possibility of generating potentially significant visual impacts based upon the potential of the Project to dominate the scene or become obtrusive on views from Warm Water Cove Park.

While this impact has been classified as less than significant without design controls, it may still be adverse. This adversity can be lessened through the application of Mitigation Measures VIS-1Aa and VIS-1Ab.

VIS-1Aa: Plan Submittal Requirements for Building Materials and Colors. All major Project features, including buildings, structures, fencing, and sign backgrounds (excluding electric switch gear and related wires and cables, etc. which shall be galvanized gray as shown in the simulations) shall be painted with neutral tan or gray colors that will minimize the size and height of the facility, blend with adjacent structures and be compatible with natural landscapes where applicable. A specific painting plan shall be developed for approval by the agency with local jurisdiction to ensure that the proposed colors do not unduly contrast with the surrounding landscape colors. All treatments shall be in non-reflective colors. The painting plan shall be submitted sufficiently early to ensure that any pre-colored buildings, structures and linear facilities shall have colors approved and included in bid specifications for such buildings or structures.

VIS-1Ab: Plan Submittal Requirements for Landscaping. A specific landscaping plan shall be prepared showing the location of proposed landscaping, the varieties and sizes of plants to be planted, and the proposed time of maturity for each species. Plants shall be selected from the approved species list prepared by the agencies with jurisdiction.

Less than significant

VIS-2: Converter Station will Create Substantial Light and Glare. There is potential for the Project to cast more ambient light into the immediate area than the existing conditions. There is also the possibility that the luminaries of some of the lighting fixtures may be seen directly by either residents of Potrero Hill or users of Warm Water Cove Park, which through the abrupt contrast of the fixtures' light with the surrounding general darkness, may create the effect of glare.

While this impact has been classified as less than significant, without design controls it may still be adverse. This adversity can be lessened through the application of Mitigation Measure VIS-2.

VIS-2: Plan Submittal Requirements for Lighting. Except as required by security and worker-safety requirements, night lighting shall be hooded to direct illumination downward and inward toward the areas to be illuminated in order to minimize nighttime light and glare, backscatter to the nighttime sky, and visibility of lighting to public viewing areas. A specific lighting plan consistent with operational and safety needs and limiting the general lighting levels to a maximum reasonable level shall be submitted to each agency with jurisdiction for approval. The plan shall include provisions for timed and/or motion detection-controlled switches.

Less than significant

VIS-3: Creation of Visual Clutter. There is the possibility that views of the proposed HWC (Mitigated) Converter Station from Warm Water Cove Park would be adversely affected without supplemental screening landscaping along the waterfront given the potential for the Project to be more obtrusive than the existing condition. This impact would be considered potentially significant.

VIS-3: Landscaping Plan. The view of the proposed HWC Converter Station (mitigated) from Warm Water Cove Park shall be improved by addition of landscaping screening. In order to improve views northward from Warm Water Cove Park, the applicant shall develop a landscape plan which provides screening foliage where consistent with facility location and safety. The landscaping plans shall be reviewed and approved by agencies with jurisdiction.

Less than significant

HAZ-1: Removal of Potentially Hazardous Building Materials Resulting from Demolition. Structures on the converter station site contain or potentially contain ACMs and LBP. Improper removal or remediation of these materials could result in a potentially significant environmental impact

HAZ-1: Complete an ACM Abatement Plan and an LBP Abatement Plan. Complete ACM and LBP investigation and characterization on the converter station site to fill data gaps and to support development of worker safety procedures, in accordance with regulatory requirements to protect construction workers and the public. The ACM and LBP Abatement Plans shall be completed in compliance with application regulations based on the historical and newly acquired ACM and LBP data. If ACM and LBP are confirmed to be present in concentrations above regulatory limits, the Project proponent shall use ACM- and LBP-certified removal contractors and trained asbestos and lead-based paint removal workers, conduct dust monitoring, and properly dispose of generated wastes offsite. The Project proponent shall also prepare a site Health and Safety Plan for this work.

Less than significant

HAZ-2: Soil Removal. Soils removed during construction of the converter station and cable routes could be contaminated. Improper sampling, handling, analyzing, or characterizing of the soils could result in a potentially significant environmental impact. Soils at the HWC (Mitigated) site are likely to be contaminated with metals and either TPH or PAHs, depending on location. Portions of a naturally occurring subsurface serpentinite ridge may require excavation. Serpentinite contains naturally occurring asbestos and these soils, if disposed of offsite, would likely require disposal as California hazardous waste.

HAZ-2: Soil Removal Protocols. Previously uncharacterized soils that are stained or odiferous shall be segregated on plastic, sampled, and characterized for onsite use or offsite disposal. The Soil and Groundwater Management plans (SMP, GMP) shall detail storage, transportation, and disposal options for soil and groundwater excavated/extracted during the converter station construction. They would also specify dust monitoring needs for soil excavation and management.

Previously characterized hazardous soils shall be loaded onto trucks for offsite disposal. Hazardous soil disposal requires that hazardous waste manifests accompany the waste. Hazardous waste transporters shall be required to haul hazardous soils to a Class I hazardous waste landfill. The personnel handling the hazardous soils are required to have met the OSHA hazardous work operations training requirements. A Health and Safety Plan shall be prepared for this work.

Previously characterized non-hazardous soils shall be stockpiled for onsite or offsite reuse or offsite disposal, as needed.

Less than significant

HAZ-3: Construction-phase Hazardous Materials Use. Hazardous materials would be used during construction activities. Misuse, inadequate storage, or improper disposal of these materials could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-3: Reduction of Hazards During Construction Phase. The hazards presented by the use of hazardous materials during the construction phase are well understood, and the appropriate management controls to mitigate potential impacts shall be implemented. These controls include: 1) developing required management plans, e.g., a Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan (see HAZ-5 for more SPCC Plan details); 2) secondary containment; 3) separate storage of incompatible materials; and 4) proper training of personnel.

Additionally, construction personnel shall be trained in safety and defensive emergency response procedures. Construction personnel shall also receive hazardous-waste-related training that focuses on recognition of potentially contaminated soil and/or groundwater that may be encountered during subsurface excavations for foundations or pipeline/cable trenches. If such contaminated soil or groundwater is suspected, contingency procedures shall be followed to protect worker safety and public health. All vehicles and construction equipment shall be inspected to ensure that no fluids are leaking (e.g., oil, hydraulic fluid, lubricants, or brake fluid) and that all fuels and fluids are stored in proper, clearly labeled containers.

Hazardous materials that must be disposed of will be disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with the appropriate regulations for storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste.

Less than significant

HAZ-4: Construction-phase Waste Streams. Improper storage and disposal of solid waste and hazardous construction wastes could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-4: Management of Construction-phase Waste Streams. The onsite management and offsite disposal procedures of solid wastes (including potentially contaminated soil) shall be in a Solid Waste Management Plan for the Project. Waste shall be stockpiled temporarily before disposal offsite. The local fire department and emergency management team shall be provided a list of the waste material expected to be generated and stored onsite.

Hazardous wastes generated during construction shall be collected in hazardous waste accumulation containers near the point of generation and moved daily to the construction contractor's 90-day hazardous waste storage area at the converter station site. The accumulated waste shall be delivered to an authorized waste management facility.

The exact volume of hazardous wastes to be generated at the San Francisco HWC (Mitigated) Converter Station site cannot be estimated at this time, but the estimated amount of excavated soil that would need to be disposed of offsite is estimated at approximately 15,000 cubic yards for this converter station site. Even if this entire amount of excavated soil would need to be disposed of as hazardous waste, it would not exceed a significant portion of the available hazardous waste landfill capacity in California. The capacity details of various landfills for both non-hazardous and hazardous waste are detailed in Table 4.14-5. The capacity and estimates for daily volumes of waste received were verified, as detailed in the personal communications provided in the references for this section.

Less than significant

HAZ-5: Construction-phase Accidental Spills. An accidental spill or a release of hazardous materials could occur during construction. This impact is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-5: Construction-phase Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures. The following shall be implemented both to prevent spills from occurring and to minimize impacts in the event that they do occur:

Less than significant

HAZ-6: Construction-phase Dust and Volatilization of Contaminants. Excavation of contaminated soil and generation of hazardous waste soils could result in construction dust and volatilization of contaminants that pose environmental and human health risks, particularly to construction workers. This impact is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-6: Reduction of Construction Dust and Volatilization of Contaminants. Dust control measures (i.e., keeping the soil wet during excavation) shall be implemented during excavation and construction activities, and dust monitoring shall be performed. Suspected contaminated soil that is stockpiled on the site shall be covered daily with plastic to prevent volatilization of contaminants and to control dust. Contaminated soil may also be loaded directly onto trucks for transport to an appropriate offsite disposal facility. The loaded soils shall be properly covered and manifested as necessary. Dust monitoring shall be performed during excavation and loading of hazardous soils. The accumulated waste will then be delivered to an authorized waste management facility. Dust monitoring shall confirm that the dust control measures are effectively protecting site workers and the public.

Less than significant

HAZ-7: Contaminated Groundwater. The San Francisco HWC (Mitigated) Converter Station site is known to have contaminated groundwater. Groundwater may be encountered during construction and groundwater dewatering. The lead regulatory agency associated with the proposed Project may require control or remediation of the site groundwater for redevelopment of the property. Failure to control the contaminated groundwater flow could result in a potentially significant impact.

HAZ-7: Contaminated Groundwater Control. If groundwater was encountered during construction at the converter station site, the water shall be collected onsite in a tank or tanks, sampled, and analyzed. Based on the analytical data, the water shall be characterized for disposal by one of the following methods:

Less than significant

HAZ-8: Operations-phase Hazardous Materials Usage. Hazardous materials shall be used during operations and maintenance activities. Misuse, inadequate storage, or improper disposal of these materials could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-8: Control of Operations-phase Hazardous Materials. A Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP) shall be developed and implemented prior to turnover of site management from the construction contractor to the operating company. All hazardous materials shall be handled and stored in accordance with applicable codes and regulations. Storage quantities of all hazardous materials shall be minimized, and non-hazardous materials shall be substituted for hazardous materials at the converter station to the extent practicable. Small-quantity chemicals used for maintenance tasks shall be kept in appropriate inflammable material or corrosive material storage lockers. Bulk chemicals shall be stored in ASTs, and all other chemicals shall be stored in their original shipping containers. Incompatible materials shall be stored in separate storage containment areas. Chemical storage areas and transfer areas shall be equipped with secondary containment sufficient in size to contain the volume of the largest container or tank, including an allowance for rainwater. Areas susceptible to potential leaks and/or spills shall be paved and bermed or otherwise secondarily contained. Specifically, the transformers and the diesel ASTs would have secondary containment. Periodic inspections shall be conducted to ensure that all containers are secure and properly marked. Piping and tanks will be protected from potential traffic hazards by concrete or other barriers. Hazardous materials will be delivered to the converter station periodically. Transportation of these materials shall comply with all applicable regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the EPA, DTSC, the California Highway Patrol, and the State Fire Marshal. An HMBP shall be prepared prior to delivery of specified hazardous materials to the converter station in conformance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) and California Health and Safety Code Section 25504. The HMBP requires facilities to develop the following information:

Less than significant

HAZ-9: Operations-phase Waste Streams. Improper storage and disposal of operational wastes could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-9: Manage Waste Generation, Storage, and Disposal During Operations Phase. Before facility start-up, an application shall be made to DTSC for a hazardous waste generator number. The facility shall not treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste in a manner that will cause the facility to be characterized as a treatment, storage and disposal facility (TSDF). A detailed waste management plan shall be prepared prior to start-up to ensure proper storage, labeling, packaging, record keeping, manifesting, minimization, and disposal of all hazardous materials and wastes. The waste management plan will include:

Less than significant

HAZ-10: Operations-phase Accidental Spills. Non-compliance with regulatory requirements associated with storage, use, and containment of hazardous materials and/or petroleum hydrocarbons could result in accidental spills. The impact from accidental spills of these materials is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-10: Operations-phase Spill Prevention, Controls, and Countermeasures. The following shall be implemented during operations:

Less than significant

HAZ-11: Operations-phase Fire and Explosion Risk. Non-compliance with regulatory requirements associated with storage, use, and containment of flammable materials could result in a fire or explosion. The impact of a fire or explosion is considered potentially significant. If the onsite fire protection equipment could not address the fire, outside agencies would need to be called. This impact is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-11: Reduction of Fire and Explosion Risk and Emergency Support During Operations Phase. The flashpoints of transformer oil and diesel fuel are 295°F and 100°F, respectively, and the auto ignition points are 484°F and 494°F, respectively (Sax, 1992; MSDS for transformer oil; MSDS for diesel fuel). The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) assigns lubricating oils a fire hazard rating of 1, meaning that the materials "must be preheated before ignition can occur. Materials of these types require considerable preheating, under all ambient temperature conditions, before ignition and combustion can occur" (Siemens, 2006).

The converter station shall have onsite fire protection systems (including emergency backup systems). During the detailed design phase of the proposed Project, potential fire protection designs and systems shall be reviewed with local agencies to finalize design details.

In general, the fire protection system shall consist of automatic detection and firefighting equipment. The fire detection control panel will be located in the control room and will be connected to the control and protection system for remote annunciation. The fire alarm will be initiated automatically by smoke, heat, or flame detectors, or manually by push-button. A combination of detectors will be used, including infrared and ultraviolet detectors, ionization and optical smoke detectors, and rate-of-rise temperature-sensitive detectors, depending on the equipment and/or space being monitored.

Audible alarms and flashing lights will be activated in the event of a fire. The equipment or area where the alarm is triggered will be indicated on the control panel. The firefighting equipment would initiate automatically, using water sprays and curtains or an appropriate gas-extinguishing agent.

Fire detection and automatic firefighting equipment will be connected to a power supply within the fire-detection control panel, which will be connected to the mains via a power supply/battery charger unit with an internal 24-volt battery. A pump house shall be included within the facility with 2 diesel fire-water pumps, each 225 kW. The fire-water pump and backup emergency lighting will be electrically powered by a diesel-powered generator capable of operating at full standby without refueling for 96 hours, as required in a seismically active area.

Less than significant

HAZ-12: Impacts from Seismic Activity. Failure to abide by the building code for Seismic Zone 4 could lead to damage to the facility and resulting spills of hazardous materials. This impact could be potentially significant.

HAZ-12: Manage Seismic Activity. To minimize seismic damage to the facility and the resulting hazardous materials spills, the designers and construction contractor shall follow the Uniform Building Code for Seismic Zone 4. This action would reduce Impact HAZ-12 to a less-than-significant level.

Less than significant

PALEO-1: Disturbance of Fossil Resources. There are no known significant fossil resources at this location. However, excavations associated with construction have the potential to penetrate into undisturbed Qal sediments, which could contain significant fossil resources. This impact would be considered potentially significant.

PALEO-1: Potential Fossil Resources Protection. The following measures shall be implemented:

Less than significant

AIR-1: Fugitive Dust Emissions. The fugitive dust emissions impact (Impact AIR-1) described in Section 4.2.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site. The Project proposes to use fugitive dust suppression with water and other methods to control construction-related emissions. The use of chemical additives is not planned. Controlled worst-case fugitive dust is estimated to be 39 pounds per day; 0.43 tons per month; and 3.4 tons over the 27- to 30-month construction period for the Pittsburg site. Without fugitive dust control measures the impact is considered to be potentially significant.

AIR-1: Fugitive Dust Controls. Mitigation Measure AIR-1 described in Section 4.2.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

AIR-2: Equipment Exhaust Emissions. The equipment exhaust emissions impact (Impact AIR-2) described in Section 4.2.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site. See Table 4.2-13 for emissions estimates for this site. Without mitigation measures this impact is considered to be potentially significant.

AIR-2: Exhaust Controls. Mitigation Measure AIR-2 described in Section 4.2.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

GEO-1: Soil Erosion and Compaction. The soil erosion and compaction impact (Impact GEO-1) described in Section 4.3.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

GEO-1: Design Project for Erosion Control. Mitigation Measure GEO-1 described in Section 4.3.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

GEO-3: Strong Ground Shaking. The strong ground shaking impact (Impact GEO-2) described in Section 4.3.3.2.2 of the Draft EIR applies at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

GEO-3: Design to Seismic Design Requirements. Mitigation Measure GEO-3 described in Section 4.3.3.2.2 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

GEO-4: Liquefaction. The liquefaction impact (Impact GEO-4) described in Section 4.3.3.2.2 of the Draft EIR applies to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

GEO-4: Design Project for Liquefiable Deposits. Mitigation Measure GEO-4 described in Section 4.3.3.2.2 of the Draft EIR shall be applied to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

GEO-5: Shrink-Swell/Subsidence. The proposed Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site is potentially underlain with expansive soils, which requires specific attention during grading to avoid future heaving and cracking of overlying materials. The potential for damage due to shrink-swell/subsidence to site facilities is potentially significant.

GEO-5: Design Project for Shrink-Swell/Subsidence. A program of site-specific exploratory borings and accompanying laboratory testing shall be required to delineate any potentially expansive materials underneath the proposed Project facility sites and to evaluate the potential for site subsidence and identify and implement appropriate design measures (e.g., pile supports or replacement of undesirable materials) in accordance with applicable codes.

Less than significant

WATER-1: Erosion and Contaminated Runoff. The erosion control and runoff impact (Impact WATER-1) described in Section 4.4.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

WATER-1: Erosion Control and Contaminant Source Control. Mitigation Measure WATER-1 described in Section 4.4.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied for the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

WATER-2: Surface Water Quality Impacts from HDD. Impact WATER-2 described in Section 4.4.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

WATER-2: Spill Prevention and Control Plan for HDD. Mitigation Measure WATER-2 described in Section 4.4.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied for the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

WATER-3: Groundwater Quality Impacts from HDD. HDD could have significant water quality impacts through loss of drilling fluids that would increase suspended material in groundwater. This would be considered a potentially significant impact.

WATER-3: Use of Pilot Hole and Reaming. HDD shall be performed using a pilot hole plus reaming technique to minimize the potential for impacts to groundwater. To prevent significant water quality impacts, drilling muds shall consist of naturally occurring materials such as water and bentonite clay, plus inert, non-toxic polymers.

Both the drilling technique and early detection and response shall be used to minimize release of fluids to the environment. HDD shall start with completion of a small-diameter pilot hole. The pilot hole is gradually enlarged using reaming. This technique acts to prevent sudden loss of large volumes of drilling fluids.

Early detection and rapid response shall be implemented to minimize loss of drilling fluids. In the event loss of drilling fluids is detected, natural LCMs such as cotton dust, cottonseed hulls, wood fiber, mica, and cedar fiber shall be added to the drilling fluid. Alternative actions that shall be considered and implemented, as required, include reduction in drilling pressure, thickening of the fluid mixture, and construction of spill control structures, pits, and silt fences onshore, or silt curtains offshore.

Less than significant

WATER-8: Flooding. The northwest corner of the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Converter Station Alternative 1 site is located within the 100-year flood zone.

WATER-8: Flood Mitigation. Design the site to adequately minimize risk from 100-year flood. Typical measures that shall be incorporated into the project design include:

Less than significant

TRAFFIC-1: Cumulative Traffic Impacts. The Cumulative Traffic Impacts (Impact TRAFFIC-1) on the regional roadway system described in Section 4.10.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

TRAFFIC-1: Coordination to Reduce Cumulative Traffic Impacts. Mitigation Measure TRAFFIC-1 described in Section 4.10.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site. No other significant cumulative transportation-related impacts would be expected to occur on local roads.

Less than significant

TRAFFIC-2: Oversized Loads. The Oversized Loads impact (Impact TRAFFIC-2) described in Section 4.10.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies to the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

TRAFFIC-2: Coordination of Oversized Loads. Mitigation Measure TRAFFIC-2 described in Section 4.10.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

NOISE-1: Converter Station Operations Sound Levels. Sound levels from the operation of the West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station would range from 77 to 79 dBA L_dn at the property lines, which exceeds the Pittsburg 75 dBA L_dn requirement. This is considered a potentially significant impact.

NOISE-1: Noise Barrier Installation for Converter Station. An acoustical barrier approximately 10 feet high would be erected around a portion of the converter station and an acoustical barrier approximately 13 feet high would be erected around a portion of the emergency generator. If final design determined that an acoustical barrier were unnecessary, it shall not be required.

Less than significant

PS-1: Construction-related Fire Hazards. The construction-related fire hazards impact (Impact PS-1) discussed in Section 4.12.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

PS-1: Fire Water Service. Mitigation Measure PS-1 discussed in Section 4.12.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be conducted at this site.

Less than significant

PS-2: Existing Underground Utilities. The underground utilities impact (Impact PS-2) discussed in Section 4.12.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR applies at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

PS-2: Utility Survey. Mitigation Measure PS-2 described in Section 4.12.3.2.1 of the Draft EIR shall be conducted at this site.

Less than significant

PS-3: Operations Fire Hazards. The operations fire hazards impact (Impact PS-3) discussed in Section 4.12.3.2.2 of the Draft EIR applies at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

PS-3: Operations Fire Prevention. Mitigation Measure PS-3 discussed in Section 4.12.3.3.2 of the Draft EIR shall be conducted at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site.

Less than significant

VIS-1: Converter Station Domination of View. The Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station would be visible from West Tenth Street. Since the architectural design character of the building and the general character of proposed lighting have not been identified in detail, there is the possibility of generating significant visual impacts based upon the potential of the Project to dominate the scene or become obtrusive on views from West Tenth Street.

While this impact has been classified as less than significant, without design controls it could still be adverse. This adversity can be lessened through the application of mitigation measures VIS-1a and VIS-1b.

VIS-1a: Plan Submittal Requirements for Building Materials and Colors. Mitigation Measure VIS-1a described in Section 4.13.3.2 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site. Architectural design and site plans, plus a color and material palette, shall be reviewed and approved by the Pittsburg Planning Commission. Final architectural plans and conditions of approval shall be reviewed and signed off by the appropriate planning and building officials prior to operation of the Project.

VIS-1b: Plan Submittal Requirements for Landscaping. Mitigation Measure VIS-1b described in Section 4.13.3.2 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site. Landscape design plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Pittsburg Planning Commission. Final landscape plans shall be reviewed and signed off by the appropriate planning and engineering officials prior to operation of the Project.

Less than significant

VIS-2: Converter Station will Create Substantial Light and Glare. There is potential for the Project to cast more ambient light into the immediate area than the existing conditions. There is also the possibility that the luminaries of some of the lighting fixtures may be seen directly by travelers along the Pittsburg-Antioch Highway which through the abrupt contrast of the fixtures' light with the surrounding general darkness, may create the effect of glare.

While this impact has been classified as less than significant, without design controls it may still be adverse. This adversity can be lessened through the application of Mitigation Measure VIS-2.

VIS-2: Plan Submittal Requirements for Lighting. Mitigation Measure VIS-2 described in Section 4.13.3.2 of the Draft EIR shall be applied at the Pittsburg West Tenth Street Alternative 1 (E/W) Converter Station site. Lighting plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Pittsburg Planning Commission. Final lighting plans shall be reviewed and signed off by the appropriate planning and building officials prior to operation of the Project.

Less than significant

HAZ-1: Removal of Potentially Hazardous Building Materials Resulting from Demolition. Existing structures on the converter station site contain or potentially contain ACMs and LBP. Improper removal or remediation of these materials could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-1: Complete an ACM Abatement Plan and an LBP Abatement Plan. Phase II ACM and LBP surveys on the converter station site shall be conducted to fill data gaps and to support development of worker safety procedures, in accordance with regulatory requirements to protect construction workers and the public. The ACM and LBP Abatement Plans shall be completed in compliance with applicable regulations based on the historical and newly acquired ACM and LBP data. If ACM and LBP were confirmed to be present in concentrations above regulatory limits, the Project proponent shall use certified asbestos and lead-based paint removal workers, conduct dust monitoring, and dispose of generated wastes offsite. A site Health and Safety Plan shall also be prepared for this work.

Less than significant

HAZ-2: Soil Removal. Soils removed during construction of the converter station and cable routes could be contaminated. Improper sampling, handling, analyzing, or characterizing of the soils could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-2: Soil Removal Protocols. Previously uncharacterized soils that are stained or odiferous shall be segregated on plastic, sampled, and characterized for onsite use or offsite disposal. The Soil and Groundwater Management Plans shall detail storage, transportation, and disposal options for soil and groundwater excavated/extracted during the converter station construction. The plans shall also specify dust monitoring needs for soil excavation and management.

Previously characterized hazardous soils shall be loaded onto trucks for offsite disposal. Hazardous soil disposal requires that hazardous waste manifests accompany the waste. Hazardous waste transporters shall be required to haul hazardous soils to a hazardous waste landfill that can properly accept them. The personnel handling the hazardous soils are required to have met the OSHA hazardous work operations training requirements. A Health and Safety Plan shall be prepared for this work.

Previously characterized non-hazardous soils shall be stockpiled for onsite or offsite reuse or offsite disposal, as needed.

Less than significant

HAZ-3: Construction-phase Hazardous Materials Use. Hazardous materials would be used during construction activities. Misuse, inadequate storage, or improper disposal of these materials could result in a significant environmental impact.

HAZ-3: Reduction of Hazards During Construction Phase. The hazards presented by the use of hazardous materials during the construction phase are well understood, and the appropriate management controls to mitigate potential impacts shall be implemented. These controls include: 1) developing required management plans; 2) secondary containment; 3) separate storage of incompatible materials; and 4) proper training of personnel.

Additionally, construction personnel shall be trained in safety and defensive emergency response procedures. Construction personnel shall also receive hazardous waste-related training that focuses on the recognition of potentially contaminated soil and/or groundwater that may be encountered during subsurface excavations for foundations or pipeline/cable trenches. If such contaminated soil or groundwater is suspected, contingency procedures shall be followed to protect worker safety and public health. All vehicles and construction equipment shall be inspected to ensure that no fluids are leaking (e.g., oil, hydraulic fluid, lubricants, or brake fluid) and that all fuels and fluids are stored in proper, clearly labeled containers.

Hazardous materials that must be disposed of will be disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with the appropriate regulations for storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste.

Less than significant

HAZ-4: Construction-phase Waste Streams. Improper storage and disposal of solid waste and hazardous construction wastes could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-4: Management of Construction-phase Waste Streams. The onsite management and offsite disposal procedures of solid wastes (including potentially contaminated soil) shall be detailed in a Solid Waste Management Plan for the Project. Waste shall be stockpiled temporarily before disposal offsite. The local fire departments and emergency management teams shall be provided a list of the waste material expected to be generated and stored onsite.

Hazardous wastes generated during construction shall be collected in hazardous waste accumulation containers near the point of generation and moved daily to the construction contractor's 90-day hazardous waste storage area at the converter station site. The accumulated waste shall be delivered to an authorized waste management facility.

The exact volume of hazardous wastes to be generated at the converter station site cannot be estimated at this time, but the estimated amount of excavated soil that would need to be disposed of offsite is estimated at approximately 15,000 cubic yards for this converter station site. Even if this entire amount of excavated soil would need to be disposed of as hazardous waste, it would not exceed a significant portion of the available hazardous waste landfill capacity in California. The capacity details of various landfills for both non-hazardous and hazardous waste are detailed in Table 4.14-5, above. The capacity and estimates for daily volumes of waste received were verified, as detailed in the personal communications provided in the references for this section.

Management of these wastes shall be the responsibility of the construction contractor(s). Typical management practices required for contractor waste include recycling when possible, proper storage of waste and debris, including covering daily to prevent wind dispersion, and weekly pickup of waste with disposal of non-hazardous wastes at local Class III landfills.

Less than significant

HAZ-5: Construction-phase Accidental Spills. An accidental spill or a release of hazardous materials could occur during construction. This impact is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-5: Construction-phase Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures. The following shall be implemented both to prevent spills from occurring and to minimize impacts in the event that they do occur:

Less than significant

HAZ-6: Construction-phase Dust and Volatilization of Contaminants. Excavation of contaminated soil and the generation of hazardous waste soils could result in construction dust and volatilization of contaminants that pose environmental and human health risks, particularly to construction workers. This impact is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-6: Reduction of Construction Dust and Volatilization of Contaminants. Dust control measures (i.e., keeping the soil wet during excavation) shall be implemented during excavation and construction activities, and dust monitoring shall be performed. Suspected contaminated soil that is stockpiled on the sites shall be covered daily with plastic to prevent volatilization of contaminants and to control dust. Contaminated soil may also be loaded directly onto trucks for transport to an appropriate offsite disposal facility. The loaded soils shall be properly covered and manifested as necessary. Dust monitoring shall be performed during excavation and loading of hazardous soils. The accumulated waste shall then be delivered to an authorized waste management facility. Dust monitoring shall confirm that the dust control measures are effectively protecting site workers and the public.

Less than significant

HAZ-7: Contaminated Groundwater. The converter station site may have contaminated groundwater. This groundwater may be encountered during excavation, construction dewatering, or other subgrade activities. Control or remediation of the site groundwater may be a requirement for redevelopment of the property by the lead regulatory agency for the proposed Project. Failure to properly treat and/or dispose of water collected during dewatering activities or to control the contaminated groundwater flow could result in a potentially significant impact to the site or to downgradient sites and/or water bodies.

HAZ-7: Contaminated Groundwater Control. If groundwater is encountered during construction at the converter station site, the water shall be collected onsite in a tank or tanks, sampled, and analyzed. Based on the analytical data, the water shall be characterized for disposal by one of the following methods:

Less than significant

HAZ-8: Operations-phase Hazardous Materials Usage. Hazardous materials shall be used during operations and maintenance activities. Misuse, inadequate storage, or improper disposal of these materials could result in a potentially significant environmental impact.

HAZ-8: Control of Operations-phase Hazardous Materials. A Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP) shall be developed and implemented prior to turnover of site management from the construction contractor to the operating company. All hazardous materials shall be handled and stored in accordance with applicable codes and regulations. Storage quantities of all hazardous materials shall be minimized, and non-hazardous materials shall be substituted for hazardous materials at the converter station to the extent practicable. Small-quantity chemicals used for maintenance tasks shall be kept in appropriate inflammable material or corrosive material storage lockers. Bulk chemicals shall be stored in ASTs, and all other chemicals shall be stored in their original shipping containers. Incompatible materials shall be stored in separate storage containment areas. Chemical storage areas and transfer areas shall be equipped with secondary containment sufficient in size to contain the volume of the largest container or tank, including an allowance for rainwater. Areas susceptible to potential leaks and/or spills shall be paved and bermed or otherwise secondarily contained. Specifically, the transformers and the diesel ASTs would have secondary containment. Periodic inspections shall be conducted to ensure that all containers are secure and properly marked. Piping and tanks will be protected from potential traffic hazards by concrete or other barriers. Hazardous materials will be delivered to the converter station periodically. Transportation of these materials shall comply with all applicable regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the EPA, DTSC, the California Highway Patrol, and the State Fire Marshal. An HMBP shall be prepared prior to delivery of specified hazardous materials to the converter station in conformance with Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) and California Health and Safety Code Section 25504. The HMBP requires facilities to develop the following information:

Less than significant

HAZ-9: Operations-phase Waste Streams. Improper storage and disposal of operational wastes could result in a significant environmental impact. This impact is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-9: Manage Waste Generation, Storage, and Disposal During Operations Phase. Before facility start-up, an application shall be made to DTSC for a hazardous waste generator number. The facility shall not treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste in a manner that will cause the facility to be characterized as a treatment, storage and disposal facility (TSDF). A detailed waste management plan shall be prepared prior to start-up to ensure proper storage, labeling, packaging, record keeping, manifesting, minimization, and disposal of all hazardous materials and wastes. The waste management plan will include:

Less than significant

HAZ-10: Operations-phase Accidental Spills. Non-compliance with regulatory requirements associated with storage, use, and containment of hazardous materials and/or petroleum hydrocarbons could result in accidental spills. The impact from accidental spills of these materials is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-10: Operations-phase Spill Prevention, Controls, and Countermeasures. The following shall be implemented during operations:

Less than significant

HAZ-11: Operations-phase Fire and Explosion Risk. Non-compliance with regulatory requirements associated with storage, use, and containment of flammable materials could result in a fire or explosion. If the onsite fire protection equipment could not address the fire, outside agencies would need to be called. This impact is considered potentially significant. The impact of a fire or explosion is considered potentially significant.

HAZ-11: Reduction of Fire and Explosion Risk and Emergency Support During Operations Phase. The flashpoints of transformer oil and diesel fuel are 295°F and 100°F, respectively, and the auto ignition points are 484°F and 494°F, respectively (Sax, 1992; MSDS for transformer oil; MSDS for diesel fuel). The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) assigns lubricating oils a fire hazard rating of 1, meaning that the materials "must be preheated before ignition can occur. Materials of these types require considerable preheating, under all ambient temperature conditions, before ignition and combustion can occur" (Siemens, 2006).

The converter station shall have onsite fire protection systems (including emergency backup systems). During the detailed design phase of the proposed Project, potential fire protection designs and systems shall be reviewed with local agencies to finalize design details.

In general, the fire protection system shall consist of automatic detection and firefighting equipment. The fire detection control panel shall be located in the control room and shall be connected to the control and protection system for remote annunciation. The fire alarm shall be initiated automatically by smoke, heat, or flame detectors; or manually by push-button. A combination of detectors shall be used, including infrared and ultraviolet detectors, ionization and optical smoke detectors, and rate-of-rise temperature-sensitive detectors, depending on the equipment and/or space being monitored.

Audible alarms and flashing lights shall be activated in the event of a fire. The equipment or area where the alarm is triggered shall be indicated on the control panel. The firefighting equipment would initiate automatically, using water sprays and curtains or an appropriate gas-extinguishing agent.

Fire detection and automatic firefighting equipment shall be connected to a power supply within the fire-detection control panel, which will be connected to the mains via a power supply/battery charger unit with an internal 24-volt battery. A pump house shall be included within the facility with 2 diesel fire-water pumps, each 225 kW. The fire-water pump and backup emergency lighting shall be electrically powered by a diesel-powered generator capable of operating at full standby without refueling for 96 hours, as required in a seismically active area.

Less than significant

HAZ-12: Impacts from Seismic Activity. Failure to abide by the building code for Seismic Zone 4 could lead to damage to the facilities and resulting spills of hazardous materials. This impact could be potentially significant.

HAZ-12: Manage Seismic Activity. To minimize seismic damage to the facilities with resulting hazardous materials spills, the designers and construction contractor shall follow the Uniform Building Code for Seismic Zone 4. This action would reduce Impact HAZ-12 to a less-than-significant level.

Less than significant

AIR-3: Marine Construction – Criteria Pollutants. Based on Project marine emissions rates in comparison to background levels, the air quality impacts of criteria pollutant emissions of the marine construction phase are considered to be potentially significant. Based on Project marine emissions rates in comparison to background levels, the air quality impacts of criteria pollutant emissions of the marine construction phase are considered to be potentially significant.

AIR-3: Marine Vessel Emission Controls. The following shall be implemented to control emissions from vessels owned by Prysmian:

Less than significant

AIR-4: Marine Construction – Toxic Air Contaminants. Although there are no established impact significance criteria set forth by BAAQMD, the diesel PM emissions from marine construction may be potentially significant.

AIR-4: Implement Mitigation AIR-3. Implement Mitigation Measure AIR-3.

Less than significant

WATER-5: Water Quality Impacts from Cable Laying Operation. Nearshore and offshore sediment in the Potrero area is contaminated with elevated levels of PAHs. Disturbance of these sediments could result in substantial water quality impacts. This would be considered a potentially significant impact.

WATER-5: Avoidance of Sediment Contamination. To avoid potential known nearshore and offshore sediment contamination, the HDD shall be completed as far offshore as is feasible and remote from RMP station CB012S near Potrero Point in San Francisco. Hydroplow or equivalent technology activities shall also avoid known contamination in the area of station CB012S. Confirmation sediment sampling shall be performed at the location where the HDD emerges into the Bay and the results would be considered and addressed prior to commencement of construction near this location.

Less than significant

WATER-7: Water Quality Impacts from Vessel Fuel Spills. Water quality degradation from vessel fuel spills would likely not be significant in light of its low probability and the past record. However, a potentially significant spill could still occur. This event would constitute a potentially significant impact.

WATER-7: Vessel Fuel Spill Response Plan. All vessel operators associated with the proposed Project shall update their contingency plans and continue to use emergency response services for pollution incidents. Review of updates and modifications to plans shall be done under the USCG's regular oversight of oil spill contingency plans. The work of updating and expanding the spill response plans shall be based on NOAA's Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI), which involves the systematic compilation in a standardized format of information related to coastal shoreline sensitivity, biological resources, and human uses.

Less than significant

CUL-3: Offshore Cable Route Archaeological Resources. Submerged and buried archaeological resources have been identified along the offshore DC cable route. Disturbance of these historical resources is considered a potentially significant impact.

CUL-3a: Archaeological Resources Geophysical Survey. A geophysical remote-sensing survey shall be conducted along the offshore cable route to detect any potential submerged or sub-bottom archaeological resources. Depending on the geographic or bathymetric setting, an appropriate remote-sensing field survey could include deployment of a side scan sonar, sub-bottom profiler, and magnetometer to help detect these resources. The results of the geophysical survey will be reviewed by a qualified marine archaeologist and a report documenting these efforts and interpreting the results shall be produced.

CUL-3b: Archaeological Resources Avoidance. Potential submerged and/or buried archaeological resources detected through the geophysical survey shall be avoided unless they can satisfactorily be determined to not represent archaeological resources (e.g., modern debris, existing infrastructure) as documented in the technical report.

CUL-3c: Archaeological Resources Supplemental Underwater Investigation. If it is infeasible to avoid potential submerged and/or buried archaeological resources, follow-up diver survey or Remote Operated Vehicle investigations might be required to positively identify the targets. If targets are determined to be archaeological resources, they should be evaluated against the NRHP/CRHR significance criteria. If the resources are not eligible for the NRHP/CRHR, then no further consideration of these resources is required. If the resources are eligible for the NRHP/CRHR, Data Recovery (Mitigation Measure CUL-1b) may be required.

Less than significant

LU-4: Increased Vessel Traffic. Project construction activities would temporarily increase vessel traffic in the Bay. Recreational users of the Bay could experience a temporary increased risk from additional vessel traffic. This impact is considered to be potentially significant.

LU-4a: Vessel Crew Procedures. Marine crews shall watch for navigational hazards (i.e., during periods of high use by recreational boaters including windsurfers within the vicinity of selected terminal locations; during periods of high recreational use, such as weekends or race events; or when weather hazards exist) to reduce the risk of incidents involving construction vessels and recreational users in the Bay.

LU-4b: Coast Guard Coordination. Construction crew management shall coordinate construction activities with the USCG Safety Branch to ensure that no marine recreational events conflicts arise. The Project coordinator would include information to the USCG which would issue a Local Notice to Mariners. In addition, each affected harbor district will be made aware of the timing of water-based Project activities such as the cable laying operations. Applicable navigation rules will be enforced including the Cable Act of 1992 (47 CFR §76) which states that other vessels must maintain a 1.15 mile (1-nm) separation from a vessel laying or repairing an undersea cable.

Less than significant

LU-5: Potential Conflict with Local Plans and Policies. Cable installation is not expected to conflict with local jurisdictions plans or policies. Based on available feedback, no apparent conflict in land use plans or policies would occur with installation of the submarine cable. However, Contra Costa County has indicated that their agency would incur some level of responsibility and could require relocation of utilities where necessary. In addition, the City of Martinez requires a Conditional Use Permit for installation of the offshore cable. Not obtaining appropriate planning permits or coordinating with local agencies would be considered a potentially significant impact.

LU-5: Local Plans and Policies Coordination. The Project proponent shall coordinate with the City of Martinez and Contra Costa County to provide adequate notification and gain the appropriate permits and authorization required for installation of the submarine cable.

Less than significant

MTRANS-1: Vessel Navigation Hazards. For the duration of construction, the vessels engaged in cable laying would present a potential hazard to navigation on the Bay. The cable-laying vessels themselves would be "restricted in their ability to maneuver." This means that the nature of the vessels themselves or of their operations limits their ability to take actions to avoid collisions that would be expected of otherwise fully maneuverable vessels. Vessels are by definition restricted in their ability to maneuver when engaged in lying, servicing, or picking up a navigational mark, submarine cable, or pipeline. Statutory navigation rules define the responsibilities of vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver, and of other vessels operating in their vicinity, all aimed at preventing collisions or other incidents. Non-compliance with these rules would be considered to result in a potentially significant impact.

MTRANS-1a: Project Registration, Information and Pilotage. Large construction vessels like the C/S Giulio Verne and any support vessels shall be required to notify the VTS at the beginning and end of each transit, and would be monitored continuously. The USCG would also notify operators of vessels in the area of the construction activities via Notices to Mariners. To ensure safe entrance into the Bay, all ships operating under foreign registry, like the Giulio Verne, are required to have a San Francisco Bar Pilot navigate the ship into the Bay.

MTRANS-1b: Compliance with Navigation Rules. The vessels involved in cable laying shall be required to identify themselves and operate in accordance with the COLREGS. The applicable navigation rules for San Francisco Bay shall regulate the cable laying operations and are designed to prevent collisions. Within the Bay, the operators of all vessels engaged in the Project shall have the legal responsibility to preclude hazardous situations, according to the applicable navigation rules

MTRANS-1c: Precautionary Area. A safety precautionary area shall be established around the construction vessels, and will be identified via the USCG Notice to Mariners to make vessels operating in the area aware of Project activities. All cable-laying vessels shall also operate in accordance with the applicable navigation rules including the Cable Act of 1992.

MTRANS-1d: Publication of Cable Location. The planned location of the cable has been reviewed with the US Army Corps of Engineers, at local bottom depths as indicated by soundings on current navigation charts. The project proponent/construction contractor shall document the specific as-built location of the submarine cable for its entire length and shall provide GPS coordinates for critical waypoints of the cable alignment as required by the USACE and NOAA for inclusion on San Francisco Bay navigational charts and in the applicable volume(s) of the U.S. Coast Pilot. All cable-laying vessels shall also operate in accordance with the applicable navigation rules including the Cable Act of 1992.

Less than significant

¹  Note: the impacts and mitigation measures presented in this table reflect mitigating refinements made to the Project between the Draft and Final EIRs.
²  The following acronyms were used in the table above and are defined herein: