07-14-2009 CC RPT 01 - Laserfiche WebLink

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P09- 0205/P09 -0206 • Page 5 the amount of traffic occurring in the area could not be generated by residents of the greenbelt, given the low density of the area. Furthermore, the Greenbelt streets are not designed to accommodate a continually increasing number of vehicle trips as they are intentionally narrow to protect the greenbelt from heavy traffic, consistent with Proposition R and Measure C. To accurately determine the level of inconvenience that would occur as a result of closing Dufferin between Stewart and McAllister Parkway, travel distances and times were recorded for various routes between the closure site and the Galleria at Tyler shopping center on two various occasions during the week of June 22, 2009. In summary, it was found that the alternate routes would increase travel distance and time to the Galleria, but alternate routes do exist that would add as little as 1.2 miles and approximately 2 minutes to reach this destination. A similar amount of time would be added to reach other destinations, such as Arlington High School, via alternate street routes. Again, this represents a minor inconvenience to the residents of the County subdivisions in close proximity to the site and is outweighed by the provisions of Proposition R and Measure C and the goals, policies and objectives of the City of Riverside General Plan, which call for the protection of the rural nature of the Arlington Heights Greenbelt. In addition to the above, travel distances and times were recorded between the closure site and shopping destinations in South Corona, near the intersection of Interstate 15 and Temescal Canyon Road, to compare the time and distance numbers generated between the closure site and the Galleria at Tyler Shopping Center. On average, the travel time and distance to the Galleria at Tyler utilizing McAllister Parkway to La Sierra Avenue (average 3 ' / 2 miles and 8 minutes) was still far less than travel times and distances to retail developments at Temescal Canyon Road and Interstate 15 (9 ' / 2 miles and 18 minutes). As a matter of information, five letters in support of the proposed project and nine letters in opposition of the proposed project expressing similar concerns as those mentioned above, have been received by staff after the writing of the Planning Commission staff report and have been attached as Exhibits 7 and 8. Furthermore, the plot plan for this project has been updated to reflect the condition of approval requiring emergency access gates on the closed portion of Dufferin Avenue. Additionally, an easement and improvements for a pedestrian and bicycle trail along the subject portion Dufferin Avenue has been added to the exhibit. For additional background, please refer to the attached City Planning Commission staff report, recommended conditions and draft minutes from the May 7, 2009 City Planning Commission public hearing. FISCAL IMPACT The cost of all physical improvements associated with the project would be borne by the City at an estimated cost of $80,000. 1 -5