| Dear Stakeholder,This serves as an update to the Department of City Planning’s efforts in updating guidance related to CEQA Thresholds and Methodology for Construction Noise and Vibration, and for Historic Resources.A virtual public hearing was held on December 20, 2023 to provide a formal opportunity for public comment on the proposed Updated CEQA Thresholds. At the hearing, a 30-day extension of the public comment period was announced.In response to requests from various stakeholders, an additional 30-day extension for public review and comments is being granted until February 19, 2024.Pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guideline Section 15064.7(b), the Department of City Planning (Department) is considering adopting updated thresholds of significance and methodologies to analyze impacts: 1) for construction noise and vibration, and 2) to historic resources. Pursuant to the authority of the Director of Planning (Director) under Los Angeles Charter Section 506 to make and enforce any necessary rules and regulations, the Director is considering the adoption of updated thresholds and methodology in the Department’s preparation of CEQA clearances. Below is a summary of the proposed updates and the available documents for review.Construction Noise and VibrationA new set of thresholds were developed based on input from noise experts and a review of noise thresholds used by other state and local agencies, and are intended to be better suited to the City’s urban nature, yet still recognize the importance of human health, including sleep disruption. The thresholds account for reasonable expectations regarding noise and vibration during daytime and nighttime hours, and also include absolute noise levels to protect human health.Construction Noise and Vibration – Proposed Updates to Thresholds and Methodology*NEW* Construction Noise and Vibration – Summary of Proposed UpdatesHistoric ResourcesThe update would memorialize best practices for the review and analysis of historic resources.Draft CEQA Guide – Guide to Preparation of Impact Analysis – Cultural Resources – Historic ResourcesDraft CEQA Guide – Technical Studies – Cultural Resources – Historic Resources The draft documents linked above can also be found on the Department’s Website under Environmental Resources at https://planning.lacity.org/project-review/environmental-resources. Written CommentsWritten comments or questions may be submitted by email to mindy.nguyen@lacity.org or by hard copy to the address below through Monday, February 19, 2024. Any written communication must include reference to “Updated CEQA Thresholds”. |
