B.08 W912PL23R009 AMENDMENT 0005.pdf

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30-105-04EXCEPTION TO SF 30

APPROVED BY OIRM 11-84

STANDARD FORM 30 (Rev. 10-83) Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

The purpose of this Amendment is to: See Summary of Changes Amendment 0005.

1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

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16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

BY

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA15C. DATE SIGNED15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of Contracting Officer)(Signature of person authorized to sign)

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street, County, State and Zip Code) X W912PL23R0019

X 9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

22-Aug-2023

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

X The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offer is extended, X is not extended.

Offer must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning 1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

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10A. MOD. OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO.

5. PROJECT NO.(If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

22-Sep-2023

CODE

USACE, LOS ANGELES DISTRICT

915 WILSHIRE BLVD, SUITE 1109

LOS ANGELES CA 90017

W912PL 7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than item 6)

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See Item 6

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Summary of Changes

Solicitation No: W912PL23R0019

Amendment: 0005

Incorporation of Changes:

This solicitation amendment, numbered Amendment 0005, is issued to amend the solicitation number W912PL23R0019 as follows:

1. Incorporation of Final Programmatic Environmental Assessment: The Seed Task Order solicitation is hereby amended to include the Final Programmatic Environmental Assessment (EA) and its Appendices (A through L) (see Attachment 1), which is attached hereto.

2. Incorporation of Statement of Findings and Finding of No Significant Impact. The Seed Task Order solicitation is hereby amended to include the Statement of Finding and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) (see Attachment 2), which is attached hereto.

3. Incorporation by Reference. The attached Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact shall be incorporated by reference into the original solicitation, and all provisions, terms, and conditions contained therein shall be binding upon all prospective offerors.

These changes are made to ensure compliance with the most current regulations and requirements. Offerors must ensure their proposals reflect all changes made in the last amendment, as well as any previous amendments. All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation and last amendment remain in effect unless specifically addressed in this amendment.

Prospective offerors are required to acknowledge receipt of this solicitation Amendment (0005) and submit their proposals in accordance with the modified terms and conditions as specified in the last amendment.

i

Los Angeles District®

Environmental Resources Branch/Planning Division

Final Programmatic Environmental Assessment

Ten Year Operations and Maintenance Plan for the Glendale Narrows Reach of the Los Angeles River

City of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California

SEPTEMBER 2023

ii

CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Public Involvement & Notification

1.2 Location, Proposed Project Area, and NEPA Scope of Analysis

1.3 Background . 3

1.4 Purpose and Need

2.0 ALTERNATIVES

2.1 Alternative 1: No Action Alternative

2.2 Alternative 2: Fifty Percent Sediment Removal & Vegetation Management Alternative (Preferred Alternative)

2.3 Alternative 3: Full Sediment Removal Alternative

2.4 Alternatives Considered but Not Carried Forward for Analysis

3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

Resources and Uses Not Affected or Present in the Proposed Project Area

4.1 Air Quality…………………………………………………………………………………...17

4.2 Greenhouse Gasses

4.3 Cultural Resources

4.4 Biological Resources

4.5 Water Quality………………

4.6 Traffic………………………………………………………………………………………..41

4.7 Recreation……………………………………………………………………………………46

4.8 Noise………………………

4.9 Aesthetics…………………………………………………………………………………….53

4.10Hazardous and Toxic Wastes

4.11Environmental Justice

5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

6.0 APPLICABLE ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS

7.0 AGENCY COORDINATION

iii

APPENDICES

Appendix A Engineering Appendix Appendix B Air Quality Data Appendix C Cultural Resources & Regulatory Coordination Appendix D Biological Resources & Regulatory Coordination Appendix E Water Quality Data Appendix F 401 Water Quality Certification Appendix G Traffic Data Appendix H HTRW Appendix I Environmental Justice Appendix J 404(b)(1) Analysis Appendix K Public Notice, Comments Received, and Response to Comments Appendix L Figures

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District (USACE) proposes to implement a 10-year sediment and vegetation management project to improve conveyance capacity in the Glendale Narrows section of the Los Angeles River (LAR) to reduce the risk of flooding to adjacent communities. In order to address the potential environmental impacts of the proposed action, as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended (42 United States Code (USC) 4321, et seq.), this environmental assessment (EA) has been prepared consistent with the Council on Environmental Quality’s (CEQ) NEPA regulations at 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) parts 1500-1508, USACE procedures for implementing NEPA at 33 CFR Part 230, and USACE Engineer Regulation 200-2-2.

1.1 Public Involvement & Notification

A public scoping notice was electronically broadcast on June 16, 2023. Comments were accepted until July 17, 2023. Comments received and response to comments are found in Appendix K.

In addition to the public notice, the USACE briefed the Los Angeles River Cooperation Committee (LARCC), a joint working group comprised of the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, the City of Los Angeles, and the USACE which meets quarterly to coordinate and evaluate projects along the upper reach of the Los Angeles River. The meetings are open to the public. The LARCC was briefed on April 4, 2022, July 11, 2022, January 9, 2023, and July 17, 2023.

Furthermore, the USACE briefed the Los Angeles River Flood Risk Awareness Project in December of 2021 and 2022. Attendees include but are not limited to: Friends of the Los Angeles River, Council for Watershed Health, Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation, Atwater Village Neighborhood, the River Project & Water LA, Los Angeles Equestrian Center, the Nature Conservancy, Sustainable Environment Institute (LA Community College District), City of Los Angeles River Works Team, and SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition.

1.2 Location, Proposed Project Area, and NEPA Scope of Analysis

The general area encompasses an approximately 7.4-mile section of the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows. Approximately 5.6 miles of the 7.4-mile-long reach is lined with derrick stones. The remaining sections are lined with concrete. The Proposed Project Area encompasses the 5.6-mile-long, derrick stoned-lined section. The upstream terminus is near Bette Davis Park where the river makes a sharp southerly turn. The downstream terminus is near Dodger Stadium, just upstream of the Interstate 5 (I-5) Freeway bridge near Taylor Yard. This reach of the LAR channel is adjacent to Griffith Park and traverses near the Los Angeles city communities of Elysian Valley, Atwater Park, Frog Town, and Los Feliz.

Laterally, the Proposed Project Area encompasses the LAR channel and embankments on both sides of the LAR channel. Also included are staging areas located on the left embankment facing downstream).1 As shown in Figure 1 (Appendix K), the Proposed Project Area is segmented into five reaches starting with Reach 2.2

The Proposed Project Area and the scope of analysis for NEPA are the same.

1.2.1 Reach 2: Midpoint of Bette Davis Park to Upstream End of Ferraro Fields

This reach is approximately 0.75 mile in length. It extends from the midpoint of the Bette Davis Park area on the left bank, where the bed transitions from concrete-lined to a cobblestone bed, and then transitions back to concrete at approximately the upstream edge of Ferraro Fields (public soccer field facility) on the right bank. The channel has a trapezoidal configuration with grouted derrick stone banks. The banks are secured by extending the bank wall below the riverbed (toed-down) with sheet pile and quarry run stone. The bed is approximately 18 feet deep from the top of bank and approximately 175 feet wide. Sediment deposited in the channel has formed sand bars/islands, which have stabilized as the root systems of the many trees and other vegetation in the channel have trapped sediment over time. This reach, however, is not as densely vegetated as areas farther downstream in Reaches 4 to 6.

1.2.2 Reach 3: Ferraro Fields to Brazil Street

This reach is approximately 1 mile in length. It begins at the upstream edge of the Ferraro Fields on the right bank where the bed transitions from cobbles to concrete. It makes an approximately 90-degree curve to the south around Griffith Park and transitions back to cobbles at approximately Brazil Street on the left bank. The channel in this area has a rectangular concrete configuration. The bed is approximately 18 to 23 feet deep from the top of bank and approximately 180 feet wide, widening to 380 feet downstream of the Verdugo Wash confluence. State Route (SR)-134 (“Ventura Freeway”) crosses the River at Verdugo Wash.

Reach 3 also includes short segment of Verdugo Wash from the sediment trap to its confluence with the LAR channel.

1.2.3 Reach 4: Brazil Street to Los Feliz Boulevard

This reach is approximately 1.75 miles long and extends from Brazil Street on the left bank downstream to the Los Feliz Boulevard Bridge. The bed transitions from a concrete-lined rectangular channel to a trapezoidal channel with a cobble bed and grouted derrick stone banks.

Banks are toed-down with sheet pile and quarry run stone. The bed was constructed approximately 18 feet deep from the top of the slope, and the channel ranges from approximately

1 The terms “left embankment” and “right embankment” are designated with the observer looking downstream. The right embankment is adjacent to Griffith Park and the Interstate 5 Freeway. The left embankment is adjacent to Bette Davis Park, Glendale Riverwalk, Los Feliz Golf Course and Taylor Yard.

2 This EA uses the reach classifications from the Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration Integrated Feasibility Report. Reach 1, which is not within the Proposed Project Area, begins near Buena Vista Park on the left bank and ends at the midpoint of Bette Davis Park.

130 to 160 feet wide from top of bank to top of bank. Sediment deposited in the channel has formed sand bars/islands, which are stabilized by the root systems of the many trees and other vegetation. This reach ends at the Los Feliz Boulevard Bridge, where localized concrete lining of the bed and banks plus pier noses that extend upstream have been constructed to protect the bridge and lower the water surface underneath the bridge.

1.2.4 Reach 5: Los Feliz Boulevard to SR-2 (Glendale Freeway)

This reach is approximately 1.55 miles long and veers east between Hyperion Avenue and SR-2 (“Glendale Freeway”). The reach extends from the Los Feliz Boulevard Bridge to the SR-2 Bridge. The bed transitions from concrete under each of the large bridges to a trapezoidal channel with a cobblestone bed and grouted derrick stone banks between the bridge. Banks are toed-down with sheet pile and quarry run stone. The bed is approximately 18 feet deep and the top of the channel is approximately 130 to 160 feet wide. Sediment deposited in the channel has formed sand bars/islands, which have stabilized as the root systems of the many trees and other vegetation have trapped sediment. This reach ends as the river begins to curve back east as it approaches Taylor Yard.

1.2.5 Reach 6: Glendale Freeway to I-5 Freeway

This reach is approximately 2.34 miles long and meanders through three river bends. It extends from the SR-2 Bridge to the downstream crossing of I-5, where the bed transitions from cobblestone to concrete-lined. Here, the channel is in a trapezoidal configuration with a cobble bed and grouted derrick stone banks. The banks are toed down with sheet pile and quarry run stone. The bed is approximately 30 feet deep from the top of the slope and the top of the channel ranges from approximately 190 to 215 feet wide. Sediment deposited in the channel has formed sand bars/islands, which have become stabilized as the root systems of the many trees and other vegetation have trapped sediment. The channel narrows to 170 feet and transitions to a rectangular configuration just upstream of the I-5 and SR-110 interchange.

1.3 Background

1.3.1 Past Sediment and Vegetation Maintenance Projects in the Glendale Narrows

In the recent past, the USACE focused its maintenance activities in critical areas as needs arose and to levels commensurate with available funding and resources. Over the past 13 years, the USACE implemented several site-specific sediment removal and vegetation management projects. These projects, listed chronologically below, targeted areas where flow conveyance capacities were severely impacted:

• Reach 4A through 6C (2009). Removed approximately 13.5 acres of invasive giant reed (Arundo donax), 326 fan palms, and 140 other non-native trees.

• Reach 2A, 3A, 4A, and 4B (2017/2018). Removed accumulated sediment and non-native vegetation from 125 acres.

• Reach 6A & 6B (2017). Removed non-native vegetation.

• Reach 3A (2018). Removed approximately 2,500 cubic yards (cy) of sediment and vegetation.

• Reach 5C & 6A (2018). Removed approximately 48,000 cy of sediment from approximately 950 ft. upstream to 880 ft. downstream of the SR-2 bridge.

• Reach 4A to 5A (2019). Removed approximately 91 native trees and 87 non-native trees from a corridor from the toe of levee to approximately 15 ft. riverward to comply with requirements of Engineering Pamphlet (EP)1110-2-18, the USACE national standards for levee vegetation.

• Reach 5B (2019/2020). Vegetation and debris removal.

• Reach 4A & 4B (2021). Removed approximately 5,000 cy of shoaled sediment and 50 non-native trees.

Though these projects yielded site specific benefits, the Glendale Narrows section of the LAR continues to exhibit diminished flow conveyance capacity.

1.3.2 Diminished Flow Conveyance Capacity

The USACE completed a comprehensive flow conveyance assessment of the LAR through Glendale Narrows in 2022 (see Appendix A). Compared to the original design conveyance capacity, the current flow conveyance capacity through the Glendale Narrows remains diminished due to accumulated sediment and vegetation in the channel bed. Diminished capacity is evident in all but a few of the sub-reaches. Compare “Design Conveyance Capacity” to “Current Conveyance Capacity” in Table 1. Descriptions of Alternatives 1, 2, and 3 noted in Table 1 can be found in Section 2.0 of this EA.

Table 1: Comparison Channel Capacity for Alternatives*

Reach Current

Conveyance Capacity

(Alternative 1)

50% Cut Conveyance

Capacity (Alternative 2)

Design Conveyance

Capacity (Alternative 3)

(year) (cfs) (year) (cfs) (year) (cfs) 2A 8 41,800 13 48,300 7 40,000 3A 5 34,960 18 52,200 7 40,000 4A 4 31,540 7 43,200 51 78,000 4B 5 37,525 14 52,400 51 78,000

4C 4 36,100 14 52,700 51 78,000

4D 7 43,795 22 61,900 51 78,000

5A 5 41,183 15 54,500 51 78,000

5B 11 49,637 25 66,000 51 78,000

5C 5 40,185 13 52,000 51 78,000

6A 5 42,989 22 65,600 57 83,700

6B 5 37,763 19 61,300 57 83,700

6C 5 38,760 19 61,800 57 83,700

Source: Appendix A: MFR – Median Removal and Channel Capacity for Los Angeles River Reaches 2 through 6.

1.3.3 Bridge Crossings

There are a number of bridges crossing the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows. In general, piers underneath bridges reduce in-channel capacity needed to convey peak storm flows.

Accumulated sediment and vegetation upstream and downstream of bridges further add to the reduction, resulting in a chokepoint for water flows. Bridge piers are susceptible to collecting debris and/or creating a blockage which increases the potential likelihood of potentially severe breakout of peak storm flows outside the LAR channel at the bridge locations. See Appendix A.

Table 2: Bridges Susceptible to Breakout Flows* Reach Bridge

2A Riverside Drive Interstate 5

3A State Route 134 (Ventura Fwy.)

4A Colorado Blvd.

5A Sunnynook Dive (pedestrian) Los Feliz Blvd.

5B Glendale Blvd.

5C Fletcher Dr.

State Route 2 (Glendale Fwy.)

6C Interstate 5 Fwy.

Source: Appendix A: MFR – Justification for Vegetation and Sediment Removal at Bridge Crossings in the Los Angeles River ARBOR Reach. The term “ARBOR Reach” comes from the Los Angeles River Ecosystem Restoration (LARER) study (see Fig. 1-2 of EIS/EIR). The term refers to the 11-mile reach (including Glendale Narrows) identified in the City’s Master Plan as having the best opportunities for restoration within the larger 32 mile stretch of the river. As used in this MFR, ARBOR reach is referring to the Glendale Narrows.

1.3.4 Accumulated Sediment

Due to a shallow groundwater table, the channel bed (invert) of the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows was not lined with concrete. To let groundwater percolate and at the same time to stabilize the invert, large derrick stones were placed in the invert. The increased channel roughness and decrease in flow velocity across the derrick stone bed results in sediment accumulation which in turn reduces flow volume through the Glendale Narrows. An estimate of accumulated sediment from the 2022 flow conveyance assessment is shown below. In total, there are approximately 337,719 cy of accumulated sediment in the form of sandbars present throughout the Glendale Narrows. See Appendix A.

Table 3: Volume of Accumulated Sediment Reach Sediment Volume (cy)

2A 11,952 3A 21,715 4A 9,494 4B 7,088 4C 10,448

4D 4,361 5A 15,289 5B 16,312 5C 21,758 6A 70,577 6B 83,441 6C 65,284 Total 337,719 Source: Appendix A: MFR – Median Removal and Channel Capacity for Los Angeles River

Reaches 2 through 6.

1.3.5 Vegetation

Accumulated sediment in the channel facilitates the growth of native and non-native vegetation within the channel bed, including native and non-native trees, shrubs and grasses. As gravel, mud, and debris become trapped and accumulate forming shallow sandbars, vegetation becomes rooted. As the rooted vegetation grows, additional gravel, mud, and debris become trapped forming larger and higher sandbars in the channel over time. This process has resulted in many sandbars within the Proposed Project Area where vegetation has established. An estimate of vegetation cover (acres) in the Glendale Narrows is shown below. Surveys from spring 2023 indicate presence of approximately 54.7 acres of native vegetation in the LAR channel (see Table 13).

1.3.6 Vegetation Free Zone and Vegetation Management Zone (EP 1110-2-18)

In compliance with EP-1110-2-18, the USACE national standards for levee vegetation, USACE-maintained levees and channels are required to be cleared of vegetation to facilitate access by personnel and equipment for surveillance, inspection, maintenance, monitoring, and flood-fighting.

EP 1110-2-18 requires the establishment of a Vegetation Free Zone (VFZ). The width of the VFZ encompasses the levee and extends 15 feet riverward from the toe of levee.3 The exact boundary of the VFZ may differ based on differing sections of the levee. In addition to the VFZ, EP 1110-2-18 also allows for establishment of a Vegetation Management Zone (VMZ). The VMZ would be contiguous with the VFZ and would extend riverward. For the levees of the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows, the VMZ would extend 15 ft. riverward from the edge of the access road/toe protection.

The access road/toe protection protects the levee from scour and erosion. It is a parallelogram-shaped structure constructed of grouted derrick (500 lbs. to 7 ton in size) and cobble stones (20 lbs. to 500 lbs. in size). The structure extends from the interface of the levee and the channel bottom to approximately 7 to 10 ft. below the surface to bedrock. Its width varies from 15 to 22

ft. The top is lined with grout. Grout depth varies but is no more than 3 ft. deep. The concrete

3 The toe on the riverside is defined by projecting the landside toe horizontally. See figure A-23 of EP 1110-2-18.

surface serves as an access road for maintenance vehicles. The toe itself is protected by un-grouted derrick and cobble stones. Sheet piles, driven approximately 15-20 ft. below bedrock, also protect the levee at selected locations.

The zone encompassed by the VFZ/VMZ is shown in Figure 2 (Appendix K).

There are 15 grade control structures within the Glendale Narrows. These structures extend across the channel from toe to toe. Larger grade control structures, approximately 40 ft. wide, are constructed of grouted derrick and cobble stones that extends 7 to 10 ft. below the channel bottom to bedrock. The top is overlaid with a concrete surface. This concrete surface allows for maintenance vehicles to crossover from one levee to the opposite levee.

Smaller structures, approximately 8-10 ft. wide, are constructed of grouted derrick and cobble stones. Maintenance vehicles cannot use these structures as crossovers. Regardless of size, all grade control structures are protected by sheet piles, driven approximately 15-20 ft. below bedrock.

The VFZ requirement does not include these structures. However, for purposes of maintenance, inspection, and access, a VMZ would be established from the outer edge of the structure to 15 ft.

upstream and downstream as allowed by EP 1110-2-18.

At various locations throughout the Glendale Narrows, there is sediment atop both the levee toe and grade control structures. On the average, there is approximately 8-10 ft. of sediment atop these structures at locations where sediment has accumulated. Presence of sediment prohibits inspection and repair of the levee toe. It also prohibits use of the toe for vehicle access and crossovers. The sediment also diminishes the functionality and effectiveness of grade control structures.

The inability to perform inspections and perform timely repairs has resulted in structural damages to engineered elements of the LAR channel. Both surface water and groundwater can damage the levee toe. Surface flows especially storm flows can wash cobble stones downstream.

The flows can also erode the channel bed underneath derrick stones resulting in displacement.

With no stone protection, the channel bed underneath the toe is susceptible to erosion resulting in the toe sinking, buckling, or separating from the levee. Groundwater pressure can also cause water to spring to the top of toe through micro fissures resulting in damages. The same forces can undermine and corrode sheet piles.

1.3.7 Trash and Debris

The LAR channel is the primary drainage for the LAR watershed. Furthermore, the watershed is highly urbanized. Approximately 609 square miles of the 824 square mile-watershed is urbanized. The remainder of the watershed is the Los Angeles National Forest and other open space.4 As a result, storm flows convey trash from the uplands into the LAR.

4 Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (2007). Trash Total Maximum Daily Loads for the Los Angeles River Watershed. p. 4

The excess sediment and vegetation function to trap trash within the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows. Common items from the uplands include Styrofoam cups, Styrofoam food containers, glass and plastic bottles, toys, balls, motor oil containers, antifreeze containers, construction materials, plastic bags, and cans. Furthermore, it’s not uncommon to find larger items such as shopping carts and consumer electronics such as flat screen television sets within the Glendale Narrows reach. These items degrade water quality and designated beneficial uses.

1.4 Purpose and Need

The LAR channel is a flood risk management structure. Despite targeted approaches to remove accumulated sediment and manage vegetation, conveyance capacity through the Glendale Narrows remains diminished. Accumulated sediment and vegetation increase the possibility of the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows overtopping and breakout flows at bridge crossings and prohibit inspection, use, and repair of engineered structures. The LAR channel is not in full compliance with EP 1110-2-18 which requires establishment of a VFZ to assure adequate access by personnel and equipment for surveillance, inspection, maintenance, monitoring, and flood-fighting. For the same reasons, a VMZ would also be established. Vegetation and sediment on both the upstream and downstream approaches to bridge crossings have increased potential for breakout flows during large storm events. Accordingly, the purposes of the proposed action are:

1. Improve conveyance capacity to reduce risk of flooding.

2. Reducing potential for breakout flows at bridge locations.

3. Establishing a VFZ and VMZ throughout the Glendale Narrows.

4. Removing trash and foreign debris from the LAR channel.

5.

2.0 ALTERNATIVES

2.1 Alternative 1: No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no comprehensive sediment and vegetation management program through the Glendale Narrows. Instead, site-specific sediment removal and vegetation management projects would continue to be implemented in critical areas as needs arise and to levels commensurate with available funding and resources, as has been standard practice in the past. The existing flow conveyance capacity would remain largely unchanged.

Implementation of Alternative 1 would result in the channel cross section that is similar to the existing typical cross section shown in Figure 4 (Appendix K) and would not be incompliance with EP 1110-2-18 in establishment of a VFZ.

2.2 Alternative 2: Fifty Percent Sediment Removal & Vegetation Management

Alternative (Preferred Alternative)

As noted in Section 1.2.4, there is approximately 337,719 cy of accumulated excess sediment in the Glendale Narrows. Alternative 2, the Preferred Alternative, would implement the following elements over period of 10 years to the extent annual appropriations and available resources allow. Implementation of Alternative 2 would result in the conceptual channel cross section in Figure 4 (Appendix K).

This alternative includes the following activities:

1. Removing up to 50% of accumulated sediment within Glendale Narrows (approximately 168,860 cy). Table 1 shows the estimated flow conveyance capacity that would be restored. In the area in between the VFZs and VMZs, non-native vegetation would be removed and native vegetation would be preserved. For native trees, sediment removal would be limited to no closer than 5 ft from tree canopy dripline to ensure survivorship of trees.

2. Removing native and non-native vegetation from approximately 200 ft. to 500 ft.

upstream and downstream of 9 bridge crossings, which includes removal of approximately 38 native trees.

3. Establishing a VFZ by removing accumulated sediment and vegetation (both native and non-native) atop engineered structures and a 15 ft.-wide VMZ riverward of the adjacent road/toe protection (see Figure 2, Appendix K), and establishing a 15 ft.-wide VMZ upstream and downstream of the crossovers (see Figure 3, Appendix K). All non-native vegetation and approximately 16 acres of native vegetation, in total, would be removed.

4. Trash and foreign debris (e.g., shopping carts, discarded electronics, etc.) would be removed.

2.2.1 Scheduling and Cross Section Sequencing

Annual Work Schedule: Work would be conducted outside the migratory bird nesting season from September 15 to March 14.

Work would occur during weekdays, Monday through Friday.

Cross Section Work Sequence: In any reach where work occurs, work would be sequenced to proceed from the edge to the middle of the channel. First, sediment and vegetation would be removed from the levee toe and crossovers to establish access. Next, vegetation and sediment would be cleared from the remainder of the VFZ and VMZ. Last, work would proceed towards the channel center for sediment removal operations and clearing operations around bridges.

2.2.2 Work Phasing & Approximately Annual Sediment Removal Volume

Maintenance activities would be implemented over 10 years and would generally proceed from downstream to upstream reaches. The full suite of sediment and vegetation management activities would proceed from Reach 4 and 5 primarily during Years 1 and 2. Work would further proceed to Reaches 3 and 2 during Years 3 through 10.

The full suite of sediment and vegetation management activities would not be implemented at once in Reach 6 to minimize potential impacts to the Least Bell’s Vireo (LBVI, Vireo bellii pusillus), a species listed under the Endangered Species Act. Instead, work in Reach 6 would be staggered. During Years 1 and 2, activities would be limited to removal of non-native vegetation and removal of sediment and vegetation from engineered structures. Sometime during a 2-year span between Years 5 and 10, sediment and vegetation from the remainder of the VFZ and VMZ would be removed. Thus, at a minimum, there would be a two-year gap between work on Reach 6.

Table 4: Conceptual Work Phasing Diagram

Programmatic Year

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

For impact analysis purposes, the proposed 10-year maintenance action is divided into Years 1-2 and Years 3-10. The average sediment volumes that would be removed for Years 1-2 and Years 3-10 are shown below. Impacts to air quality and traffic are partially based on these values.

Table 5: Approximate Average Sediment Removed Per Year

Programmatic Year Reach 50% Cut Volume

(cy) Average

Sediment Volume Per Year (cy)2

1-2 6 54,8251

48,6002 5 26,680 4 15,696

3-10 6 54,8251

8,9573 3 10,858 2 5,976

1 The total 50% volume in Reach 6 is divided evenly between Years 1-2 and Years 3-10 to account for work in Reach 6 being split between the Years 1-2 and Years 3-10.

2 Total 50% volume in in Years 1-2 divided by 2. 3 Total 50% volume in in Years 3-10 divided by 8.

Partial work, activities staggered over time

Full work, all activities occur concurrently

2.2.3 Sediment Testing and Sorting

Sediment would be tested in two phases. Prior to conducting maintenance operations, accumulated sediment would be sampled and tested via a grid method to provide a baseline map of chemical constituents in the soil. Once maintenance operations are underway, sediment would be tested at 500 cy intervals.

Sediment would be sorted on site, in the channel, using a passive screening device to screen out rocks larger than 18 inches. The rocks would be retained on site, within the channel, and would be repositioned to protect the bedrock and grouted toe roads. Screening large rocks would also reduce disposal costs.

2.2.4 Sediment and Vegetation Disposal

All sediment and vegetation would be disposed at landfills. Sediment testing results would determine the appropriate landfill classes for disposal.

2.2.5 Access

Existing access ramps into the river would be the focal point of primary ingress/egress routes.

All access ramps are located on the left embankment of the LAR. See Figures 5-8 (Appendix K).

Reach 2A (Bette Davis Park Ramp): From the access ramp and access road adjacent to Bette Davis Park, haul trucks would proceed northwest and right turn onto Western Ave. and proceed to the Interstate 5 Freeway on-ramp.

Reach 3A (Verdugo Wash Ramp): From the access ramp at Verdugo Wash, haul trucks would proceed northwest, right turn onto Fairmont Ave., and proceed to the State Route 134 on-ramp.

Reach 4A, 4B, & 4C (Colorado Street Ramp): From the access ramp on the left embankment, haul trucks would proceed onto Colorado Blvd. left turn onto the I-5 Freeway on-ramp via Colorado St. Freeway Extension.

Reach 4D, 5A, & 5B (Rigali Avenue Ramp): From the access ramp on the left embankment, haul trucks would proceed onto Rigali Ave., turn right on Brunswick Ave., turn right on Los Feliz Blvd. and proceed onto the I-5 Freeway on-ramp.

Reach 5C & 6A (Fletcher Drive North Ramp): From the access ramp on the left embankment, haul trucks would proceed onto Fletcher Drive and proceed onto the SR-2 Freeway on-ramp.

Reach 5C & 6A (Fletcher Drive South Ramp): From the access ramp, haul trucks would follow the access road within the USACE’s right-of-way towards Bowtie Parcel. Once past Bowtie Parcel, haul trucks would proceed along an interior route between Taylor Yard and Rio de Los Angeles State Recreation Area. Trucks would then proceed via an unnamed access road towards San Fernando Road and onto the SR-2 Freeway.

Reach 6A & 6B (Taylor Yard): From the access ramp at Taylor Yard, haul trucks would traverse through Taylor Yard directly onto Kerr Road, left-turn onto North San Fernando Road, and proceed onto the SR-2 on ramp.

Reach 6A, 6B, & 6C (San Fernando Ramp): From the access ramp near the State Route 110 bridge across the Los Angeles River, haul trucks would left-turn onto North San Fernando Road, transition to Riverside Drive via a round-about, left turn onto Duvall Street, cross underneath the I-5 Freeway and proceed onto the I-5 southbound on ramp.

In addition to the existing access ramps, up to four temporary earthen access ramps would be constructed upstream and downstream of Fletcher Drive at Reach 5 and Taylor Yard Bridge at Reach 6. The temporary access ramps would be located on the left embankment. The earthen ramps would be removed upon completion of work at each reach or at the end of the annual work window. In the event of forecasted storm flows, the earthen ramps would be removed and reconstructed after storm flows have abated.

2.2.6 Staging Areas

Staging areas would be used for overnight storage of construction equipment. During working hours, haul trucks may park in the area. Temporary stockpiles of sediment or vegetation may also be temporarily stored at the location. See Figures 9-12 (Appendix K).

Reach 2A: There are two staging areas on the left embankment adjacent to Bette Davis Park.

Bette Davis -1 encompasses a sliver of land within the USACE right-of-way between the levee and Bette Davis Park. Bette Davis-2 encompasses a corner of land within the USACE right-of-way between the embankment and Riverside Drive.

Reach 3A (Verdugo Wash Ramp Area): Verdugo Wash Ramp itself would serve as the staging area.

Reach 4D (Rigali Ave. Ramp Staging Area): The staging area is an approximately 1-acre empty dirt lot owned by the city of Los Angeles. The lot is located immediately north of the Los Feliz Golf Course and is immediately adjacent to the access ramp. This lot has been used as a staging area for past maintenance activities.

Reach 4D (Los Feliz Golf Course Staging Area): This staging area encompasses a sliver of land within the USACE’s right-of-way between the levee and the golf course.

Reach 5C (Fletcher Dr. Staging Area): This staging area is on land within the USACE’s right-of-way immediately adjacent to the levee.

Reach 6A & 6B (Bowtie Parcel): This staging area is on land owned by the city of Los Angeles.

Reach 6A & 6B (Taylor Yard). Two staging areas would be sited on what was formerly Taylor Yard. Both locations are unpaved.

Reach 6C (San Fernando Ramp Area): This staging area is a sliver of paved and unpaved area between San Fernando Ramp and the Arroyo Seco Channel.

2.2.7 Environmental Commitments

The following avoidance and minimization measures would be implemented as part of Alternative 2.

Bio-1: All work will be scheduled to occur outside of the LBVI nesting season (between

September 15th through March 14th).

Bio-2: Prior to construction activities, the USACE-approved biological monitor will conduct pre-construction environmental training for all construction crew members. The training shall focus on required avoidance/minimization measures and conditions of regulatory agency permits and approvals. The training will also include a summary of sensitive species and habitats potentially present within and adjacent to the Proposed Project Area, and appropriate procedures/protocols of invasive species.

Bio-3 Protocol level surveys for the vireo will be required every year prior to work in any suitable habitat areas within the Project footprint. Known vireo territories based on recent survey and observation data (2016, 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023) along with proposed protocol level surveys will be mapped. In areas where vireos have been known to establish territories, vegetation management within these areas will be limited to non-native vegetation. No vegetation or sediment removal that results in removal of native vegetation will occur in these areas.

Bio-4: A USACE-approved biological monitor will be on-site during all sediment and vegetation removal activities to ensure unintended impacts to biological resources including, but not limited to, vegetation and wildlife, are avoided or minimized. The monitor will also ensure that vegetation removal of native and non-native species only occurs in approved zones with minimal impact to native species to be retained.

Bio-5: Sediment removal activities would be limited to no closer than 5 feet from the tree canopy dripline (in adjacent native tree areas to be retained) to ensure survivorship of trees.

Bio-6: If heavy machinery may impact the survival of native vegetation in enhancement areas, then hand tools will be used to remove exotics. This determination will be made by the USACE’s Project Biologists or USACE-approved qualified biologist in coordination with the USACE Operations Division and the contractor.

Bio-7: An invasive species management plan will be prepared to describe methods and schedules used to treat exotic plants. The plan shall also include elements required at Section 5-3 of EP 1110-2-18. Section 5-3 requires a detailed vegetation removal plan within the VFZ and VMZ which must be reviewed and approved by the USACE District Levee Safety Officer.

Bio-8: Dust control measures will be implemented during the construction phase to reduce excessive dust emissions. Methods for reducing dust emissions may include wetting work areas by water truck on a regular basis such as dirt access roads and sediment stockpiles, as well as covering truck beds carrying material and stockpiles.

Bio-9: Best Management Practices shall be implemented to reduce impacts to native habitats, including the following: (a) All equipment maintenance, staging, and dispending of fuel, oil, coolant, or any other toxic substances will occur in developed or designated non-sensitive upland areas. If a spill occurs outside of a designated area, the cleanup will be immediate and documented. (b) Fire suppression equipment including shovels, water, and extinguishers will be available onsite during the fire season (as determined by Los Angeles County Fire Department) and when activities may produce sparks. Emergency contacts must be established prior to work beginning. (c) To the extent feasible, the contractor will prevent exotic weeds from establishing within the work site during construction. Construction equipment will be cleaned of mud or other debris prior to mobilizing and before leaving the site to reduce the potential spread of invasive plants and/or seeds.

Hz-1 Suppress dust through use of water trucks for staging and hauling operations through

Bowtie Parcel and Taylor Yard.

Hz-2 Conduct all refueling operations in designated staging areas, outside of surface waters.

Rec-1 Continue coordination with interested residents and stakeholders through coordination venues listed in Section 1.1 throughout the 10-year lifespan of the operations and maintenance plan to discuss additional efforts and ways to avoid and minimize impacts to recreation and address other concerns. Coordination may include site visits and field meetings as deemed necessary and appropriate.

Wq-1: Water diversion structures such as k-rails, coffer dams, rubber dams, or super sacks (i.e., industrial polypropylene fabric bags filled with sand) would be temporarily placed in the channel to isolate the work areas from surrounding flows. All water diversion structures would be removed upon completion of construction within a particular reach. There would be no water diversion structures when work is not occurring.

Wq-2: Temporary earthen access ramps in Reach 5 and Reach 6 would be removed upon completion of work at the respective reaches. In case of expected storm flows, the earthen ramps would be removed.

Wq-3: All applicable terms and conditions of the Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality

Certification that authorizes discharges associated for the proposed action would be implemented. See Appendix F.

Wq-4: The Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification expires May 12, 2027.

Unless the certification is renewed before the expiration date, USACE will not discharge dredged or fill material into the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows. Activities that do not result in discharges of dredge or fill materials may proceed as described in the 404(b)(1) evaluation until a new WQC is obtained or waived.

2.3 Alternative 3: Full Sediment Removal Alternative

As noted in Section 1.2.4, there is approximately 337,719 cy of accumulated sediment in the Glendale Narrows. Under Alternative 3, all accumulated sediment would be fully removed over a period of 10 years to the extent annual appropriations and available resources allow. Trash and debris would also be removed. Native trees would be avoided to the extent practicable.

Because some amount of vegetation would remain in the channel, full restoration of design conditions would not be realized. Sediment and biomass would be disposed in the same manner as that described for Alternative 2. Environmental Commitments implemented for Alternative 2 would be implemented for Alternative 3. Implementation of Alternative 3 would result in the conceptual channel cross section in Figure 4 (Appendix K).

2.3.1 Work Phasing & Approximately Annual Sediment Removal Volume

Similar to Alternative 2, maintenance activities would be implemented over 10 years and would generally proceed from downstream to upstream reaches. Year 1 and 2 would focus on Reach 6 where sediment accumulation is highest. Maintenance activities for the remaining reaches would be implemented in Years 3 through 10. The same sediment testing regimen, haul routes and staging areas described for Alternative 2 would be use for Alternative 3.

Table 6: Conceptual Work Phasing Diagram

Programmatic Year

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Table 7: Approximate Average Sediment Removed Per Year

Programmatic Year Reach 100% Cut

Volume (cy) Average

Sediment Volume Per Year (cy)

Year 1- 2 6C 32,642

109,652 6B 41,721 6A 35,289

Year 3-10

5C 10,879

14,801

5B 8,156 5A 7,645 4D 2,181 4C 5,224 4B 3,544 4A 4,747

3A+Verdugo 10,858 2A 5,971

2.4 Alternatives Considered but Not Carried Forward for Analysis

2.4.1 Structural Modification

Flow conveyance capacity could be restored through structural modifications to the levee. For example, the crest of the levees could be raised, or parapet walls can be constructed atop the levees. Regardless of methodology, increasing the height of levees would restore design conveyance capacity. Similar structural modifications have been made in lower reaches of the LAR between the Arroyo Seco Channel Confluence to Southern Ave. in the city of Downey, Ca.

where parapet walls have been constructed atop the embankments.

This alternative, however, was not carried forward for the following reasons. First, operational and maintenance funds cannot be used for activities that would result in substantial modification of authorized structures. Furthermore, raising the levee height would increase the design capacity of the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows beyond that authorized by Congress. Changes to the design capacity would require separate Congressional authorization and appropriations.

Furthermore, the forthcoming LARER project will result in substantial structural modifications to the LAR channel throughout Glendale Narrows. Structural modifications for the purpose of restoring capacity may need to be dismantled when the LARER project is implemented. Last, raising the levee height may require structures to be built atop the bicycle/pedestrian trail on the right levee (facing downstream) thereby permanently prohibiting the use of the trail and disrupting the trail connectivity at Glendale Narrows.

3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

This chapter provides the existing conditions (i.e., the affected environment) and assesses environmental effects/consequences that would result from the implementation of each of the alternatives described in Chapter 2.

Resources and Uses Not Affected or Present in the Proposed Project Area

Resources that are not present in the Proposed Project Area or resources for which there are no potential significant impacts due to implementation any of the alternatives include: Land Use, Socioeconomics, and Utilities.

4.0.1 Land Use

Typical land use designation and zoning practices concentrate industrial areas in border areas of cities. The Glendale Narrows lies at the interface of borders of the city of Los Angeles and the city of Glendale. Thus, from approximately Reach 3A through Reach 4C and from Reach 5C through Reach 6C, the left embankment of LAR is immediately adjacent to active or former industrial land uses. The upper reaches of the right embankment is adjacent to the I-5 Freeway corridor; the lower reaches are mostly adjacent to industrial land uses. Reach 6C on the right embankment is adjacent residential land use. See Figures 9-12.

None of the alternatives entail the construction of infrastructure or utilities that would induce socioeconomic changes leading to changes in land use. Therefore, Land Use is not evaluated in this document.

4.0.2 Socioeconomics

None of the alternatives would not require housing for laborers because the Proposed Project Area is readily within commuting distance from most parts of Los Angeles County. Seasonal income for approximately 50 people over a period of 10 years would not alter the larger socioeconomic characteristics of Los Angeles County under the action alternatives. Furthermore, none of the alternatives entail the construction of infrastructure or utilities that would result in growth of the surrounding area, nor increase capacity of existing infrastructure that would induce growth. None of the alternatives would not lead to a substantial shift in population, housing, and employment. Therefore, Socioeconomics is not evaluated in this document.

4.0.3 Utilities

There are utility lines above and below the LAR channel through Glendale Narrows. Above are electrical transmission towers. In some reaches electrical transmission lines are parallel to the embankment. In other locations electrical transmission lines cross the LAR channel. Below the embankments and the channel are sewer lines. Utilities lines for gas and water are also strung to bridge crossings. Last, several storm drains extend through the embankment toward storm outfalls located on the riverside face of the embankments.

None of the alternatives would not affect utilities. Maintenance activities would use exiting access ramps. Utility relocation would not be required. Excavation would be limited to removal of sand bars atop the channel bottom. Sewer lines buried several feet beneath the channel bottom would not be disturbed. There would be no structural modifications that could affect storm outfalls. Therefore, utilities are not evaluated in this document.

4.1 Air Quality

4.1.1 Affected Environment

4.1.1.1 South Coast Air Basin

The Proposed Project Area is within the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB) which includes the portions of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties that are non-desert.

Air quality within the Proposed Project Area is governed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).

4.1.1.2 National Ambient Air Quality Standards

The Clean Air Act identified and established the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for several criteria pollutants to protect the…