Project Section Environmental Documents
SAN JOSE TO MERCED
Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
The California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority) has prepared the Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) for the San Jose to Merced Project Section of the California High-Speed Rail (HSR) Project. The Final EIR/EIS has been prepared and is being made available pursuant to both the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being or have been carried out by the State of California pursuant to 23 United States Code 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) dated July 23, 2019, and executed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the State of California. Under that MOU, the Authority is the project’s lead agency under NEPA. Prior to the July 23, 2019 MOU, the FRA was the federal lead agency. The Authority is also the project’s lead agency under CEQA.
Following the Authority’s publication of the Draft EIR/EIS in April 2020, the Authority learned that the California Fish and Game Commission advanced the Southern California and Central Coast mountain lion (Puma concolor) populations to candidacy for listing under the California Endangered Species Act. The Authority also learned that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) determined that listing the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) under the federal Endangered Species Act is warranted, but that listing is precluded by other priorities; therefore, the monarch butterfly is now a candidate species under the Endangered Species Act. As a result, pursuant to both CEQA and NEPA, the Authority published a Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS in April 2021 to address potential impacts on mountain lion and monarch butterfly, as well as potential noise and light impacts on wildlife and associated mitigation. Responses to comments received during the review periods for both the Draft EIR/EIS and the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS are provided in Volume 4 of this Final EIR/EIS.
FINAL EIR/EIS: SAN JOSE TO MERCED PROJECT SECTION
The documents identified below are available electronically in Adobe Acrobat PDF format, which requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have a copy of this free software, you can download it from Adobe at https://get.adobe.com/reader/External Link. If you already have a copy of this software, simply click on the links and the documents will open automatically. Note: many of these files are very large and could take several minutes to download.
The previously published Draft EIR/EIS and Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS are also available on the Authority website. You may also request an electronic copy of the Final EIR/EIS, the previously published Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS and Draft EIR/EIS, and the associated technical reports by calling (800) 455-8166 or emailing northern.california@hsr.ca.gov.
In addition to posting the electronic version of the Final EIR/EIS on this website, printed and/or electronic copies of the Final EIR/EIS will be available at the following locations during hours the facilities are open (open days/hours may be reduced for compliance with coronavirus public health and safety directives):
- Santa Clara—2635 Homestead Road, Santa Clara, CA 95051 (Central Park Library)
- San Jose—150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112 (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library)
- Gilroy—350 W. 6th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020 (Gilroy Library)
- Los Banos—1312 7th Street, Los Banos, CA 93635 (Los Banos Branch Library)
- Merced—2100 O Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Library) and 2222 M Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Clerk)
- Morgan Hill—660 W. Main Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (Morgan Hill Library) and 17575 Peak Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA, 95037 (Morgan Hill City Hall, Development Services Department)
- San Benito—440 5th Street #206, Hollister, CA 95023 (San Benito County Recorder)
Printed and/or electronic copies of the Final EIR/EIS, as well as the previously published Draft EIR/EIS and Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS, and electronic copies of associated technical reports are also available for review during business hours at the Authority’s Northern California Regional Office at 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113 and the Authority’s Headquarters at 770 L Street, Suite 620 MS-1, Sacramento, CA 95814. Please contact the Authority at (800) 455-8166 to make arrangements to view the documents.
Printed and/or electronic copies of the Final Program EIR/EIS for the Proposed California High-Speed Train System (2005), the Final Program EIR/EIS for the Bay Area to Central Valley High-Speed Train (2008), and the Partially Revised Final Program EIR for the Bay Area to Central Valley High-Speed Train (2012) are available for review during business hours at the Authority’s Northern California Regional Office at 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113 and the Authority’s Headquarters at 770 L Street, Suite 620, Sacramento, CA 95814. Please contact the Authority at (800) 455-8166 to make arrangements to view the documents. Electronic copies of these documents are available upon request by calling the Authority office at (916) 324-1541.
The Authority does not discriminate on the basis of a disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities.
The Executive Summary, available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese, provides an overview of all of the substantive chapters of the Final EIR/EIS. It includes a table listing the potential environmental impacts for each environmental resource topic and directs the reader where to get details in the rest of the document.
Document Organization
The San Jose to Merced Project Section Final EIR/EIS includes the following volumes:
- Volume 1—Report
- Volume 2—Technical Appendices
- Volume 3—Preliminary Engineering Plans
- Volume 4—Responses to Comments
The purpose of environmental documents is to disclose information to decision-makers and the public. While the science and analysis that supports this Final EIR/EIS is complex, this document is intended for the general public. Use of technical terms and acronyms has been limited. Terms and acronyms are defined the first time they are used, and a list of acronyms and abbreviations is provided in Chapter 15 of this document. The Executive Summary provides an overview of all of the substantive chapters of the Final EIR/EIS. It includes a table listing the potential environmental impacts for each environmental resource topic and directs the reader where to get details in the rest of the document.
Approval Documents
- Final Approved Resolution #HSRA 22-10 CEQA Certification of the San Jose to Merced Project Section Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact StatementPDF Document
- Final Approved Resolution #HSRA 22-11 Approval of the Preferred Alternative (Alternative 4, with a San Jose Diridon Station, downtown Gilroy Station, and South Gilroy Maintenance-of-Way Facility)PDF Document
- Final Approved Resolution #HSRA 22-12 Direct Authority Chief Executive Officer to Issue the Record of Decision for the San Jose to Merced Project Section Selecting Alternative 4 with a San Jose Diridon Station, Downtown Gilroy Station, a South Gilroy Maintenance-of-Way Facility, and associated facilities and refinements, and Complying with Other Federal LawsPDF Document
Educational Materials
- Executive Summary for the Final EIR/EISPDF Document
- Resumen Ejecutivo del EIR / EIS FinalPDF Document
- 最終 EIR/EIS 的執行摘要PDF Document
- Tóm Tắt Điều Hành cho EIR/EIS Cuối CùngPDF Document
Notices
- Notice of AvailabilityPDF Document
- Aviso de DisponibilidadPDF Document
- 可用性通知PDF Document
- Thông báo về sự sẵn cóPDF Document
- Public Notice of Change to Board Meeting DatePDF Document
- Aviso público de cambio de fecha de reunión de la Junta DirectivaPDF Document
- 董事會會議改期公共通知PDF Document
- Công Bố về Việc Thay Đổi Ngày Họp Hội Đồng Quản TrịPDF Document
Volume 1: Report
- Volume 1 CoverPDF Document
- Volume 1 Title PagePDF Document
- Signature PagePDF Document
- Fact SheetPDF Document
- PrefacePDF Document
- Table of Contents Volume 1PDF Document
- SummaryPDF Document
- Chapter 1 Project Purpose, Need, and ObjectivesPDF Document
- Chapter 2 AlternativesPDF Document
- Chapter 3 Affected Environment, Environmental Consequences, and Mitigation Measures
- Section 3.1 IntroductionPDF Document
- Section 3.2 TransportationPDF Document
- Section 3.3 Air Quality and Greenhouse GasesPDF Document
- Section 3.4 Noise and VibrationPDF Document
- Section 3.5 Electromagnetic Fields and Electromagnetic InterferencePDF Document
- Section 3.6 Public Utilities and EnergyPDF Document
- Section 3.7 Biological and Aquatic ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.8 Hydrology and Water ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.9 Geology, Soils, Seismicity, and Paleontological ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.10 Hazardous Materials and WastePDF Document
- Section 3.11 Safety and SecurityPDF Document
- Section 3.12 Socioeconomics and CommunitiesPDF Document
- Section 3.13 Station Planning, Land Use, and DevelopmentPDF Document
- Section 3.14 Agricultural FarmlandPDF Document
- Section 3.15 Parks, Recreation, and Open SpacePDF Document
- Section 3.16 Aesthetics and Visual QualityPDF Document
- Section 3.17 Cultural ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.18 Regional GrowthPDF Document
- Section 3.19 Cumulative ImpactsPDF Document
- Chapter 4 Final Section 4(f)/6(f) EvaluationsPDF Document
- Chapter 5 Environmental JusticePDF Document
- Chapter 6 Project Costs and OperationsPDF Document
- Chapter 7 Other CEQA/NEPA ConsiderationsPDF Document
- Chapter 8 Preferred AlternativePDF Document
- Chapter 9 Public and Agency InvolvementPDF Document
- Chapter 10 Distribution ListPDF Document
- Chapter 11 List of PreparersPDF Document
- Chapter 12 ReferencesPDF Document
- Chapter 13 Glossary of TermsPDF Document
- Chapter 14 IndexPDF Document
- Chapter 15 Acronyms and AbbreviationsPDF Document
Volume 2: Technical Appendices
- Cover Volume 2PDF Document
- Title Page Volume 2PDF Document
- Table of Contents Volume 2PDF Document
- Appendix 2-A Roadway Crossings, Modifications, and ClosuresPDF Document
- Appendix 2-B Railroad CrossingsPDF Document
- Appendix 2-C Operations and Service Plan SummaryPDF Document
- Appendix 2-D Applicable Design StandardsPDF Document
- Appendix 2-E Project Impact Avoidance and Minimization FeaturesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-F PG&E Network UpgradesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-G Summary of Requirements for Operations and Maintenance FacilitiesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-H Emergency and Safety PlansPDF Document
- Appendix 2-I Alternatives Considered During Alternatives Screening ProcessPDF Document
- Appendix 2-J Regional and Local Plans and PoliciesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-K Policy Consistency AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report – Record PEPDPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix APDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix BPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix CPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix D Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix D Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix EPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix FPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix GPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 3PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 4PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 5PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 6PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 7PDF Document
- Appendix 2-M Gilroy LMF Option Consideration and EliminationPDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 1 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 1 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 2 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 2 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 3 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 3 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 4 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 4 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.2-A Transportation Data on Roadways, Freeways, and IntersectionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.2-B Vehicle Miles Traveled ForecastingPDF Document
- Appendix 3.2-C Traffic Mitigation Measure ScreeningPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases Technical Report PDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix A: CalEEMod Outputs for Station and Maintenance Facility Operation, MOWF Calculations, and East Gilroy Transit CalculationsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix B: CALINE4 Outputs for CO Hot-Spot AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix C: Construction Emission Assumptions and Cumulative HSR AssumptionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix D: Ballast Hauling MemorandumPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix E: Localized Impacts from ConstructionPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix F: Potential Impact from Induced WindsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix G: Council on Environmental Quality Provisions Covering Incomplete or Unavailable InformationPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-B Draft Federal General Conformity DeterminationPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-C Changes to Project Benefits Based on 2018 Business PlanPDF Document
- Appendix 3.4-A Noise and Vibration Technical Report PDF Document
- Appendix 3.4-B Noise and Vibration Mitigation GuidelinesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.4-C Noise Impact LocationsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.5-A Preconstruction Electromagnetic Measurement Survey along the San Jose to Merced Project SectionPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-A Public Utilities and Energy FacilitiesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-B Existing Plus Project Conditions Energy AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-C Water Use AssessmentPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-D Energy Analysis MemorandumPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-A Special-Status Species Potentially Affected by the ProjectPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-B Scientific NomenclaturePDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-C HSR Guideway Enclosure for the Grasslands Ecological AreaPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-D Supplemental Species Habitat Model DescriptionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-E Supplemental Noise Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife SpeciesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-F Supplemental Artificial Light Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife SpeciesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.8-A Waterbodies Crossed by the Project AlternativesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.8-B Summary of Hydraulic Modeling for Project AlternativesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.8-C Basin Plan Water Quality Impact AssessmentPDF Document
- Appendix 3.11-A Safety and Security DataPDF Document
- Appendix 3.11-B Airport ObstructionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.12-A Relocation Assistance DocumentsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.13-A General Plan Land Use MapsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-A Parcels Containing Important Farmland in the San Jose to Central Valley Wye Project Resource Study AreaPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Results and Findings of Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Pursuant to the Farmland Protection Policy Act PDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 1a: Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Evaluation Explanations and Calculations—Santa Clara CountyPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 1b: Santa Clara County NRCS-CPA-106 FormPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 2a: Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Evaluation Explanations and Calculations—San Benito CountyPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 2b: San Benito County NRCS-CPA-106 FormPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 3a: Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Evaluation Explanations and Calculations—Merced CountyPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 3b: Merced County NRCS-CPA-106 FormPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-C Remnant Parcel AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-D Induced Wind Impacts: Effects on Pollination; Blossoms and DustPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-E Williamson Act Compliance DataPDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-A CorrespondencePDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-B Cultural Resources—San Jose to Merced Project Section Tribal Outreach and Consultation Efforts 2009–2018PDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-C Archaeological and Built ResourcesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-D Programmatic Agreement among the FRA, ACHP, SHPO, and the Authority Regarding Compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA, as it Pertains to the California High-Speed Rail ProjectPDF Document
- Appendix 3.18-A RIMS II Modeling Details PDF Document
- Appendix 3.19-A Cumulative Nontransportation Plans and Projects ListPDF Document
- Appendix 3.19-B Cumulative Transportation Projects ListsPDF Document
- Appendix 4.0-A Concurrence LetterPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-A Environmental Justice Outreach PlanPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Environmental Justice Engagement Summary Report PDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment A: Environmental Justice Outreach PlanPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment B: List of Outreach Meetings Held for the ProjectPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment C: Biannual Environmental Justice Outreach ReportsPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment D: Environmental Justice Outreach, September 2021 PDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment D-1: Schedule of September 2021 MeetingsPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment D-2: Copy of Outreach Materials DistributedPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment D-3: Comments Submitted During September 2021 Outreach PeriodPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment D-4: Survey Results and Survey Forms SubmittedPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Attachment D-5: After-Action Reports for September 2021 MeetingsPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-C Environmental Justice Development of Community Improvements as Offsetting Mitigation PDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-D Preferred Alternative, Maps of Disproportionately High and Adverse Effects Before Consideration of Community ImprovementsPDF Document
- Appendix 6.0-A PEPD Record Set Capital Cost Estimate ReportPDF Document
- Appendix 6.0-B High-Speed Rail Operating and Maintenance Cost for Use in EIR/EIS Project-Level AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 9.0-A Public and Agency Meeting ListPDF Document
Volume 3: Preliminary Engineering Plans
- Cover Volume 3PDF Document
- General Information Volume 3 (Includes User Guide)PDF Document
- Alternative 1
- Alternative 2
- Book 2-A: Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Book 2-B: Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross Sections; Stations and StructuresPDF Document
- Book 2-C: RoadwayPDF Document
- Book 2-D: Roadway, Maintenance of Way, and TunnelsPDF Document
- Book 2-E: Construction Staging, Alignment Data and TablesPDF Document
- Alternative 3
- Book 3-A: Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Book 3-B: Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross Sections; StationsPDF Document
- Book 3-C: RoadwayPDF Document
- Book 3-D: Roadway, Maintenance of Way, and TunnelsPDF Document
- Book 3-E: Construction StagingPDF Document
- Book 3-F: Alignment Tables and DataPDF Document
- Alternative 4
- Book 4-A: Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Book 4-B: Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Book 4-C: StationsPDF Document
- Book 4-D: Structures, Roadway, and Maintenance of WayPDF Document
- Book 4-E: Tunnels, Construction Staging, Alignment Data and TablesPDF Document
Volume 4: Responses to Comments on the Draft EIR/EIS and Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS
- Cover and Table of Contents Volume 4PDF Document
- Chapter 16 IntroductionPDF Document
- Chapter 17 Standard Responses (English)PDF Document
- Capítulo 18 Respuestas Estándar (Español)PDF Document
- 第 19 章,標準響應(繁體中文)PDF Document
- Chương 20 Phản hồi tiêu chuẩn (Tiếng Việt)PDF Document
- Chapter 21 Federal Agency CommentsPDF Document
- Chapter 22 State Agency CommentsPDF Document
- Chapter 23 Elected Official CommentsPDF Document
- Chapter 24 Local Agency Comments (Part 1 of 2)PDF Document
- Chapter 24 Local Agency Comments (Part 2 of 2)PDF Document
- Chapter 25 Tribe CommentsPDF Document
- Chapter 26 Business and Organization CommentsPDF Document
- Chapter 27 Individual CommentsPDF Document
- Chapter 28 ReferencesPDF Document
- Chapter 29 Acronyms and AbbreviationsPDF Document
Errata
Technical Reports
- Transportation Resources Technical Report
- Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases Technical Report
- Noise and Vibration Technical Report
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report (CRAM/WER)
- Preliminary Compensatory Mitigation Plan (Redacted)
- Hydrology and Water Resources Technical Report
- Geology, Soils, and Seismicity Technical Report
- Paleontological Resources Technical Report
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report
- Draft Relocation Impact Report
- Community Impact Assessment
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report
- Aesthetics and Visual Resources Technical Report
- Historic Architectural Survey Report
- Section 106 Finding of Effect Report
Electronic versions of the technical reports are available upon request by calling the Authority office at (800) 455-8166.
Brief Explanation of Each Volume and Chapter
Volume 1: Report
Chapter 1, Project Purpose, Need, and Objectives, explains the Authority’s purpose and need for the San Jose to Merced Project Section and provides a history of the planning process.
Chapter 2, Alternatives, describes the proposed project alternatives, as well as the No Project Alternative used for purposes of comparison. It contains illustrations and maps and provides a review of construction activities. These first two chapters help the reader understand what is being analyzed in the remainder of the document.
Chapter 3, Affected Environment, Environmental Consequences, and Mitigation Measures, is where the reader can find information about the existing transportation, environmental, and social conditions in the vicinity of the San Jose to Central Valley Wye Project Extent. This chapter provides the findings of the analysis of potential environmental impacts, along with methods to reduce these impacts (called mitigation measures).
Chapter 4, Section 4(f/6(f) Evaluation, provides the analysis to support the Authority’s determinations under Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 and Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act. Section 4(f) refers to publicly owned parks, recreation areas, and wildlife/waterfowl refuges, as well as and historical sites of local, state, or national significance. Section 6(f) refers to recreation areas funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, which protects funded properties from being converted to a use other than public outdoor recreation without approval of the U.S. Secretary of the Department of the Interior.
Chapter 5, Environmental Justice, discusses whether the project alternatives may cause disproportionate impacts on low-income communities and minority communities. It also identifies mitigation to reduce those impacts where appropriate.
Chapter 6, Project Costs and Operations, summarizes the estimated capital and operations and maintenance costs for each project alternative evaluated in this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 7, Other CEQA/NEPA Considerations, summarizes the project alternatives, the significant and unavoidable environmental impacts under CEQA, adverse environmental effects that cannot be avoided under NEPA, and the significant irreversible environmental changes that would occur as a result of the project alternatives or irretrievable commitments of resources or foreclosure of future options.
Chapter 8, Preferred Alternative, describes the Preferred Alternative and the basis for identifying it.
Chapter 9, Public and Agency Involvement, contains summaries of coordination and outreach activities with agencies and the general public during preparation of this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 10, Distribution List, identifies the public agencies, tribes, and organizations that were informed of the availability of, and locations to review, this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 11, List of Preparers, provides the names and responsibilities of the authors of this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 12, References, lists references and contacts cited in writing this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 13, Glossary of Terms, provides a definition of certain terms used in this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 14, Index, provides a tool to cross-reference major topics addressed in this Final EIR/EIS.
Chapter 15, Acronyms and Abbreviations, defines the acronyms and abbreviations used in this Final EIR/EIS.
Volume 2: Technical Appendices
Appendices provide additional details on the project alternatives and the Final EIR/EIS process. The technical appendices are primarily related to the affected environment and environmental consequences analyses. These appendices are numbered to match their corresponding section in Chapters 2 and 3 of this Final EIR/EIS (e.g., Appendix 3.7-A is the first appendix for Section 3.7, Biological and Aquatic Resources).
Volume 3: Preliminary Engineering Plans
These are detailed design drawings, including trackway, stations, structures, roadway crossings, maintenance facilities, tunnels, and systems.
Volume 4: Responses to Comments on the Draft EIR/EIS and Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS
This volume includes comments received on the Draft EIR/EIS and Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS during the review periods for each document, and the responses to those comments.
Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report/Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Biological Resources Analysis
Biological Resources – New Special-Status Species
Following the Authority’s publication of the Draft EIR/EIS in April 2020, the Authority learned that the California Fish and Game Commission published a notice of findings, on May 1, 2020, to designate the Southern California/Central Coast population (evolutionarily significant unit) of mountain lion (Puma concolor) as a candidate for listing under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA).1 Additionally, the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) became a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) on December 15, 2020.2
These actions by the California Fish and Game Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) make the Southern California/Central Coast mountain lion and monarch butterfly subject to the definition of special-status species used by the Authority for analysis:
-
- “Plants or wildlife listed or proposed for listing as threatened or endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) (16 United States Code [U.S.C.] § 1531 et seq.), and
- Plants or wildlife listed or candidates for listing as threatened or endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) (California [Cal.] Fish and Game Code §§ 2050–2085).”3
Both the Southern California/Central Coast mountain lion and the monarch butterfly are assumed to be present in the resource study area for the San Jose to Merced Project Section alternatives, based on historical records and existence of suitable habitat for the species. As these are new potential impacts not included in the Draft EIR/EIS, the Authority directed that the analysis of these impacts should be included in a recirculated document. Accordingly, Section 3.7, Biological and Aquatic Resources, in this Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS includes additional analysis and revised and new mitigation measures related to the Southern California/Central Coast mountain lion and monarch butterfly.
Biological Resources – Impact of Noise on Wildlife
The Authority received comments on the Draft EIR/EIS pertaining to HSR noise and the associated impacts on wildlife. The Authority determined that additional analysis and mitigation were warranted in relation to these concerns and directed this additional information to be included in a recirculated document. The Authority conducted additional analysis of mammalian responses to HSR noise sources, which is included in this Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS as Appendix 3.7-E, Supplemental Noise Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife Species. Section 3.7 includes a summary of this additional analysis and revised mitigation to further address noise impacts on wildlife.
Biological Resources – Impact of Lighting on Wildlife
The Authority also received comments on the Draft EIR/EIS pertaining to HSR lighting, especially at night, and the associated impacts on wildlife. Commenters disagreed with the less-than-significant CEQA conclusion for Impact BIO#47, Intermittent and Permanent Lighting Disturbance of Wildlife Using Corridors during Operations, in Section 3.7, Biological and Aquatic Resources, of the Draft EIR/EIS. The Authority determined that additional analysis and mitigation were warranted in relation to these concerns and directed this additional information be included in a recirculated document. The Authority conducted additional analysis of impacts from artificial lighting on wildlife, which is included in this Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS as Appendix 3.7-F, Supplemental Artificial Light Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife Species. This additional analysis led to a revision in the CEQA conclusion, which is now significant under all four alternatives. Section 3.7 also includes revised mitigation and a new mitigation measure to minimize the impacts of operational lighting on wildlife species.
Both CEQA and NEPA provide guidance on the recirculation and supplementation of published environmental documents. Pursuant to pertinent requirements of both laws,4 the Authority, as lead CEQA and NEPA agency for the San Jose to Merced Project Section, is issuing this Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS limited to the portions of the Draft EIR/EIS that require revision based on the new information described above. New information in the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS includes background information, methodology, impact analysis, and mitigation measures. A vertical line in the margin indicates a substantive change in the text since publication of the Draft EIR/EIS; minor editorial changes and clarifications are not identified. Changes in the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS are primarily related to mountain lion and monarch butterfly but also include updates to other information as informed by the new or updated analysis. The Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS consists of excerpted text where updates or additions have been made. Ellipses are used to identify where text from the Draft EIR/EIS remains unchanged and, therefore, is not included in the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS. All tables in the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS present only information related to the new or updated analysis. The sections comprising the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS are:
- Section 3.7, Biological and Aquatic Resources
- Section 3.19, Cumulative Impacts
- Chapter 12, References
- Appendix 3.7-A: Special-Status Species Subject to Project Impacts
- Appendix 3.7-D: Supplemental Species Habitat Model Descriptions
- Appendix 3.7-E: Supplemental Noise Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife Species
- Appendix 3.7-F: Supplemental Artificial Light Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife Species
The Authority reviewed other sections of the Draft EIR/EIS and found, based on research and a review of the evidence, that no other substantive changes would be required for this Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS. All other appendices to Section 3.7, as well as all technical reports supporting Section 3.7 of the Draft EIR/EIS, remain unchanged.
Copies of the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS
Many of the following documents are available electronically in Adobe Acrobat PDF format, which requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have a copy of this free software, you can download it from Adobe at https://get.adobe.com/reader/External Link. If you already have a copy of this software, simply click on the links and the documents will open automatically. Note: many of these files are very large and could take up to several minutes to download. In addition to posting the electronic version of the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS on this website, printed and/or electronic copies of the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS will be available at the following locations during hours the facilities are open (open days/hours may be reduced for compliance with coronavirus public health and safety directives):
- Santa Clara—2635 Homestead Road, Santa Clara, CA 95051 (Central Park Library)
- San Jose—150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112 (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library)
- Gilroy—350 W. 6th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020 (Gilroy Library)
- Los Banos—1312 7th Street, Los Banos, CA 93635 (Los Banos Branch Library)
- Merced—2100 O Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Library) and 2222 M Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Clerk)
- Morgan Hill—660 W. Main Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (Morgan Hill Library) and 17575 Peak Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (Morgan Hill City Hall, Development Services Department)
- San Benito—440 5th Street #206, Hollister, CA 95023 (San Benito County Recorder).
Printed and/or electronic copies of the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS are also available for review during business hours at the Authority’s Northern California Regional Office at 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113 and the Authority’s Headquarters at 770 L Street, Suite 620 MS-1, Sacramento, CA 95814. Please contact the Authority at (800) 455-8166 to make arrangements to view the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS. Electronic copies of the Tier 1 EIR/EIS, the Merced to Fresno Final EIR/EIS, and the Merced to Fresno Central Valley Wye Final Supplemental EIR/EIS documents are available by calling the Authority at (800) 455-8166 and can also be viewed, in printed and/or electronic format, during business hours at the Authority’s Northern California Regional Office in San Jose and the Authority’s Headquarters in Sacramento. These documents are not part of the current public review and comment process; however, they are available for review and reference. Technical reports can be requested by calling (800) 455-8166. Authority offices may have reduced open days/hours, as required by coronavirus public health and safety directives. Please consult www.hsr.ca.gov for up-to-date information. Please contact the Authority at (800) 455-8166 to make arrangements to view the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS. The Authority does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. People with sensory disabilities may contact the Authority by phone or via the Authority website to request accessibility support. The purpose of environmental documents is to disclose information to decision makers and the public. While the science and analysis that supports this Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS are complex, this document is intended for the general public. Every attempt has been made to limit technical terms and the use of acronyms. The terms and acronyms are defined the first time they are used. The Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS cover memo for the San Jose to Merced Project Section of the California HSR Project is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese and explains the purpose of the revision and review period.
Notices
- Notice of AvailabilityPDF Document
- Aviso de DisponibilidadPDF Document
- 可用通知PDF Document
- Thông Báo về Tính Khả DụngPDF Document
Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS
- Cover PagePDF Document
- Title PagePDF Document
- Signature PagePDF Document
- Cover memoPDF Document
- MemorandoPDF Document
- 封面備忘錄PDF Document
- Bìa ghi nhớPDF Document
- Table of ContentsPDF Document
- Section 3.7, Biological and Aquatic ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.19, Cumulative ImpactsPDF Document
- Chapter 12, ReferencesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-A: Special-Status Species Subject to Project ImpactsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-D: Supplemental Species Habitat Model DescriptionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-E: Supplemental Noise Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife SpeciesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-F: Supplemental Artificial Light Analysis on Terrestrial Wildlife SpeciesPDF Document
Submitting a Comment
The comment period is closed.
NEXT STEPS
The Authority anticipates publishing the Final EIR/EIS in winter 2021/2022. The Final EIR/EIS will include the Authority’s responses to comments received on the previously circulated Draft EIR/EIS, in addition to responses to comments received on the Revised/Supplemental Draft EIR/EIS. The new mitigation measures included in Section 3.7 will be incorporated into the Mitigation Monitoring and Enforcement Plan as part of the CEQA/NEPA decision documents. After publishing the Final EIR/EIS, the Authority Board of Directors will consider whether to certify the Final EIR and approve the preferred alternative pursuant to CEQA. The Authority, as NEPA lead agency, will also consider whether to issue a Record of Decision approving the preferred alternative. 1 California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2020. Keep Me Wild: Mountain Lion. Available: https://wildlife.ca.gov/keep-me-wild/lionExternal Link. 2 United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2020. Questions and Answers: Extension of deadline for 12-month finding on petition to list the monarch butterfly under the Endangered Species Act. Available: https://www.fws.gov/savethemonarch/extension_faqs.htmlExternal Link. 3 California High-Speed Rail Authority. 2020. San Jose to Merced Project Section: Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement, Section 3.7.5.3, Methods for Impact Analysis, page 3.7-19. 4 CEQA Guidelines, Section 15088.5; 40 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) Section 1502.9(c)(1)(ii). The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issued new regulations, effective September 14, 2020, updating the NEPA implementing procedures at 40 C.F.R. Parts 1500–1508. However, because this project initiated the NEPA process before September 14, 2020, it is not subject to the new regulations. The Authority is relying on the regulations as they existed prior to September 14, 2020. Therefore, all citations to CEQ regulations in this document refer to the 1978 regulations, pursuant to 40 C.F.R. Section 1506.13 (2020) and the preamble at 85 Federal Register 43340.
Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
Copies of the Draft EIR/EIS
Many of the following documents are available electronically in Adobe Acrobat PDF format, which require Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have a copy of this free software, you can download it from Adobe at https://get.adobe.com/reader/External Link. If you already have a copy of this software, simply click on the links and it will open up automatically. Note: many of these files are very large and could take up to several minutes to download. In addition to posting the electronic version of the Draft EIR/EIS on this website, printed and/or electronic copies of the Draft EIR/EIS and electronic copies of associated technical reports will be available at the following locations, during hours the facilities are open (open days/hours may be reduced for compliance with coronavirus public health and safety directives):
- Santa Clara—2635 Homestead Road, Santa Clara, CA 95051 (Central Park Library)
- San Jose—150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112 (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library)
- Gilroy—350 W. 6th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020 (Gilroy Library)
- Los Banos—1312 7th Street, Los Banos, CA 93635 (Los Banos Branch Library)
- Merced—2100 O Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Library) and 2222 M Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Clerk)
- Morgan Hill—660 W. Main Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (Morgan Hill Library) and 17575 Peak Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA, 95037 (Morgan Hill City Hall, Development Services Department)
- San Benito—440 5th Street #206, Hollister, CA 95023 (San Benito County Recorder)
Printed and/or electronic copies of the Draft EIR/EIS and electronic copies of associated technical reports are also available for review during business hours at the Authority’s Northern California Regional Office at 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113 and the Authority’s Headquarters at 770 L Street, Suite 620 MS-1, Sacramento, CA 95814. You may also request a copy of the Draft EIR/EIS, and the other documents listed in this webpage, by calling (800) 455-8166. Electronic copies of the Tier 1 documents are available on request by calling the Authority office at (800) 455-8166. The Tier 1 documents may also be reviewed at the Authority’s offices during business hours at: 770 L Street, Suite 620 MS-1, Sacramento, CA 95814 and 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113. Electronic copies of the Merced to Fresno Final EIR/EIS and the Merced to Fresno Central Valley Wye Draft Supplemental EIR/EIS are available on request to the Authority by calling (800) 455-8166. The Merced to Fresno Central Valley Wye Draft Supplemental EIR/EIS is also available on the Authority website at www.hsr.ca.gov. These documents are not currently part of the public review and comment process; however, they are available for review and reference and can also be viewed during business hours at 770 L Street, Suite 620 MS-1, Sacramento, CA 95814 and 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113. Authority offices may have reduced open days/hours, as required by coronavirus public health and safety directives. Please consult www.hsr.ca.gov for up-to-date information. The Authority does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. The purpose of environmental documents is to disclose information to decision makers and the public. While the science and analysis that supports this Draft EIR/EIS are complex, this document is intended for the general public. Every attempt has been made to limit technical terms and the use of acronyms. The terms and acronyms are defined the first time they are used and a list of acronyms and abbreviations is provided in Chapter 15 of this document. The Executive Summary, available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese provides an overview of the substantive chapters. It includes a table listing the potential environmental impacts for each environmental resource topic and directs the reader to where additional information can be found elsewhere in the document.
Educational Materials
- Executive Summary for the Draft EIR/EISPDF Document
- Resumen Ejecutivo del Borrador del EIR/EISPDF Document
- EIR/EIS草案執行摘要PDF Document
- Tóm tắt điều hành cho Dự thảo EIR/EISPDF Document
- Volume 3 User GuidePDF Document
Notices
- Notice of AvailabilityPDF Document
- Aviso de DisponibilidadPDF Document
- 可用性通知PDF Document
- Thông báo về sự sẵn cóPDF Document
- Public Notice of Change to Public Review PeriodPDF Document
- Aviso Público de Cambio del Periodo de Revisión PúblicaPDF Document
- 公眾審議期變更通告PDF Document
- Công Báo về Thay Thổi Thời Gian Lấy ý Kiến Công ChúngPDF Document
Submitting a Comment
The comment period is closed.
Document Organization
The San Jose to Merced Project Section Draft EIR/EIS consists of the following:
- Volume 1—Report
- Volume 2—Technical Appendices
- Volume 3—Preliminary Engineering Plans
Volume 1: Report
- Volume I CoverPDF Document
- Volume I Title PagePDF Document
- Signature PagePDF Document
- Fact SheetPDF Document
- PrefacePDF Document
- Table of Contents Volume 1PDF Document
- SummaryPDF Document
- Chapter 1 Project Purpose, Need, and ObjectivesPDF Document
- Chapter 2 AlternativesPDF Document
- Chapter 3 Affected Environment, Environmental Consequences, and Mitigation Measures
- Section 3.1 IntroductionPDF Document
- Section 3.2 TransportationPDF Document
- Section 3.3 Air Quality and Greenhouse GasesPDF Document
- Section 3.4 Noise and VibrationPDF Document
- Section 3.5 Electromagnetic Fields and Electromagnetic InterferencePDF Document
- Section 3.6 Public Utilities and EnergyPDF Document
- Section 3.7 Biological and Aquatic ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.8 Hydrology and Water ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.9 Geology, Soils, Seismicity, and Paleontological ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.10 Hazardous Materials and WastesPDF Document
- Section 3.11 Safety and SecurityPDF Document
- Section 3.12 Socioeconomics and CommunitiesPDF Document
- Section 3.13 Station Planning, Land Use, and DevelopmentPDF Document
- Section 3.14 Agricultural FarmlandPDF Document
- Section 3.15 Parks, Recreation, and Open SpacePDF Document
- Section 3.16 Aesthetics and Visual QualityPDF Document
- Section 3.17 Cultural ResourcesPDF Document
- Section 3.18 Regional GrowthPDF Document
- Section 3.19 Cumulative ImpactsPDF Document
- Section 3.20 Design Variants to Optimize SpeedPDF Document
- Chapter 4 Section 4(f)/6(f) EvaluationPDF Document
- Chapter 5 Environmental JusticePDF Document
- Chapter 6 Project Costs and OperationsPDF Document
- Chapter 7 Other CEQA/NEPA ConsiderationsPDF Document
- Chapter 8 Preferred AlternativePDF Document
- Chapter 9 Public and Agency InvolvementPDF Document
- Chapter 10 Distribution ListPDF Document
- Chapter 11 List of PreparersPDF Document
- Chapter 12 ReferencesPDF Document
- Chapter 13 Glossary of TermsPDF Document
- Chapter 14 IndexPDF Document
- Chapter 15 Acronyms and AbbreviationsPDF Document
Volume 2: Technical Appendices
- Cover Volume 2PDF Document
- Title Page Volume 2PDF Document
- Table of Contents Volume 2PDF Document
- Appendix 2-A Roadway Crossings, Modifications, and ClosuresPDF Document
- Appendix 2-B Railroad CrossingsPDF Document
- Appendix 2-C Operations and Service Plan SummaryPDF Document
- Appendix 2-D Applicable Design StandardsPDF Document
- Appendix 2-E Project Impact Avoidance and Minimization FeaturesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-F PG&E Network UpgradesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-G Summary of Requirements for Operations and Maintenance FacilitiesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-H Emergency and Safety PlansPDF Document
- Appendix 2-I Alternatives Considered During Alternatives Screening ProcessPDF Document
- Appendix 2-J Regional and Local Plans and PoliciesPDF Document
- Appendix 2-K Policy Consistency AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment ReportPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix APDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix BPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix CPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix D Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix D Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix EPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix FPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix GPDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 3PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 4PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 5PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 6PDF Document
- Appendix 2-L Constructability Assessment Report Appendix H Part 7PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 1 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 1 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 2 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 2 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 3 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 3 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 4 Part 1PDF Document
- Appendix 3.1-A Parcels within the HSR Project Footprint Alternative 4 Part 2PDF Document
- Appendix 3.2-A Transportation Data on Roadways, Freeways, and IntersectionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.2-B Vehicle Miles Traveled ForecastingPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases Technical ReportPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix A: CalEEMod Outputs for Station and Maintenance Facility Operation, MOWF Calculations, and East Gilroy Transit CalculationsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix B: CALINE4 Outputs for CO Hot-Spot AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix C: Construction Emission AssumptionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix D: Ballast Hauling MemorandumPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix E: Localized Impacts from ConstructionPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix F: Potential Impact from Induced WindsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-A Appendix G: Council on Environmental Quality Provisions Covering Incomplete or Unavailable InformationPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-B Federal General Conformity DeterminationPDF Document
- Appendix 3.3-C Changes to Project Benefits Based on 2018 Business PlanPDF Document
- Appendix 3.4-A Noise and Vibration Technical ReportPDF Document
- Appendix 3.4-B Noise and Vibration Mitigation GuidelinesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.5-A Preconstruction Electromagnetic Measurement Survey along the San Jose to Merced Project SectionPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-A Public Utilities and Energy FacilitiesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-B Existing Plus Project Conditions Energy AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-C Water Use AssessmentPDF Document
- Appendix 3.6-D Energy Analysis MemorandumPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-A Special-Status Species Potentially Affected by the ProjectPDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-B Scientific NomenclaturePDF Document
- Appendix 3.7-C HSR Guideway Enclosure for the Grasslands Ecological AreaPDF Document
- Appendix 3.8-A Waterbodies Crossed by the Project AlternativesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.8-B Summary of Hydraulic Modeling for Project AlternativesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.8-C Basin Plan Water Quality Impact AssessmentPDF Document
- Appendix 3.11-A Safety and Security DataPDF Document
- Appendix 3.11-B Airport ObstructionsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.12-A Relocation Assistance DocumentsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.13-A General Plan Land Use MapsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-A Parcels Containing Important Farmland in the San Jose to Central Valley Wye Project Resource Study AreaPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Results and Findings of Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Pursuant to the Farmland Protection Policy ActPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 1a Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Evaluation Explanations and Calculations – Santa Clara CountyPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 1b Santa Clara County NRCS-CPA-106 FormPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 2a Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Evaluation Explanations and Calculations – San Benito CountyPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 2b San Benito County NRCS-CPA-106 FormPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 3a Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Evaluation Explanations and Calculations – Merced CountyPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-B Attachment 3b Merced County NRCS-CPA-106 FormPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-C Remnant Parcel AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-D Induced Wind Impacts: Effects on Pollination; Blossoms and DustPDF Document
- Appendix 3.14-E Williamson Act Compliance DataPDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-A CorrespondencePDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-B Cultural Resources—San Jose to Merced Project Section Tribal Outreach and Consultation Efforts 2009–2018PDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-C Archaeological and Built ResourcesPDF Document
- Appendix 3.17-D Programmatic Agreement among the FRA, ACHP, the SHPO, and the Authority Regarding Compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA, as it Pertains to the California High-Speed Rail ProjectPDF Document
- Appendix 3.18-A RIMS II Modeling DetailsPDF Document
- Appendix 3.19-A Cumulative Nontransportation Plans and Projects ListPDF Document
- Appendix 3.19-B Cumulative Transportation Projects ListsPDF Document
- Appendix 4.0-A Sample Letter for CoordinationPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-A Environmental Justice Outreach PlanPDF Document
- Appendix 5.0-B Environmental Justice Engagement Summary ReportPDF Document
- Appendix 6.0-A PEPD Record Set Capital Cost Estimate ReportPDF Document
- Appendix 6.0-B High-Speed Rail Operating and Maintenance Cost for Use in EIR/EIS Project-Level AnalysisPDF Document
- Appendix 9.0-A Public and Agency Meeting ListPDF Document
Volume 3: Preliminary Engineering Plans
- Cover Volume 3PDF Document
- Title Page Volume 3PDF Document
- General Information Volume 3PDF Document
- Alternative 1
- Alternative 1 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book A Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Alternative 1 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book B Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross Sections; Stations; StructuresPDF Document
- Alternative 1 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book C Roadway, Maintenance of Way, TunnelsPDF Document
- Alternative 1 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book D Construction Staging, Alignment Data TablesPDF Document
- Alternative 2
- Alternative 2 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book A Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Alternative 2 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book B Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross Sections; Stations; StructuresPDF Document
- Alternative 2 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book C RoadwayPDF Document
- Alternative 2 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book D Roadway, Maintenance of Way, TunnelsPDF Document
- Alternative 2 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book E Construction Staging, Alignment Data TablesPDF Document
- Alternative 3
- Alternative 3 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book A Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Alternative 3 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book B Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross Sections; StationsPDF Document
- Alternative 3 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book C RoadwayPDF Document
- Alternative 3 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book D Roadway, Maintenance of Way, TunnelsPDF Document
- Alternative 3 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book E Construction StagingPDF Document
- Alternative 3 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book F Alignment Data TablesPDF Document
- Alternative 4
- Alternative 4 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book A Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Alternative 4 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book B Composite Plan, Profile, and Cross SectionsPDF Document
- Alternative 4 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book C StationsPDF Document
- Alternative 4 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book D Structures, Roadway, Maintenance of WayPDF Document
- Alternative 4 Preliminary Engineering for Project Design – Book E Tunnels, Construction Staging, Alignment Data TablesPDF Document
Technical Reports
The following San Jose to Merced Project Section Technical Reports provide additional technical details and serve as sources for the Draft EIR/ EIS analysis. Electronic versions of the associated technical reports will be available at the following locations, during hours the facilities are open (open days/hours may be reduced for compliance with coronavirus public health and safety directives):
- Santa Clara—2635 Homestead Road, Santa Clara, CA 95051 (Central Park Library)
- San Jose—150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112 (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library)
- Gilroy—350 W. 6th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020 (Gilroy Library)
- Los Banos—1312 7th Street, Los Banos, CA 93635 (Los Banos Branch Library)
- Merced—2100 O Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Library) 2222 M Street, Merced, CA 95340 (Merced County Clerk)
- Morgan Hill—660 W. Main Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (Morgan Hill Library) 17575 Peak Avenue, Morgan Hill, CA, 95037 (Morgan Hill City Hall, Development Services Department)
- San Benito—440 5th Street #206, Hollister, CA 95023 (San Benito County Recorder)
Electronic copies of the associated technical reports are also available for review during business hours at the Authority’s Northern California Regional Office at 100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300, San Jose, CA 95113 and the Authority’s Headquarters at 770 L Street, Suite 620 MS-1, Sacramento, CA. Authority offices may have reduced open days/hours, as required by coronavirus public health and safety directives. Please consult www.hsr.ca.gov for up-to-date information. Electronic versions of the technical reports are also available upon request by calling the Authority office at (800) 455-8166.
-
- Transportation Resources Technical Report
- Transportation Resources Technical Report Appendix A
- Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases Technical Report
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix A
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix B
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix C
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix D
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix E
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix F
- Air Quality and Global Climate Change Technical Report Appendix G
- Noise and Vibration Technical Report
- Noise and Vibration Technical Report Appendix A
- Noise and Vibration Technical Report Appendix B
- Noise and Vibration Technical Report Appendix C
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix A
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix B
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix A
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix B
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix C
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix D
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix E
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix F
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix G
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix H
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix I
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix J
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix C – Appendix K
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix D
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix E
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix F
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix G
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix H
- Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report Appendix I
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix A
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix B
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix C
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix D
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix E
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix F
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix G
- Aquatic Resources Delineation Report Appendix H
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report (CRAM/WER)
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report Appendix A
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report Appendix B
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report Appendix C
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report Appendix D
- Watershed and Wetland Condition Evaluation Report Appendix E
- Preliminary Compensatory Mitigation Plan (Redacted)
- Preliminary Compensatory Mitigation Plan Appendix A
- Preliminary Compensatory Mitigation Plan Appendix B
- Preliminary Compensatory Mitigation Plan Appendix C
- Preliminary Compensatory Mitigation Plan Appendix D
- Hydrology and Water Resources Technical Report
- Hydrology and Water Resources Technical Report Appendix A
- Hydrology and Water Resources Technical Report Appendix B
- Hydrology and Water Resources Technical Report Appendix C
- Hydrology and Water Resources Technical Report Appendix D
- Geology, Soils, and Seismicity Technical Report
- Paleontological Resources Technical Report
- Paleontological Resources Technical Report Appendix A
- Paleontological Resources Technical Report Appendix B (Redacted)
- Paleontological Resources Technical Report Appendix C
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report Appendix A
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report Appendix B1
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report Appendix C
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report Appendix D1
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report Appendix E1
- Hazardous Materials and Wastes Technical Report Appendix F1
- Draft Relocation Impact Report
- Draft Relocation Impact Report Appendix A
- Community Impact Assessment
- Community Impact Assessment Appendix A
- Community Impact Assessment Appendix B
- Community Impact Assessment Appendix C
- Community Impact Assessment Appendix D
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report Appendix A
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report Appendix B
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report Appendix C
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report Appendix D
- Agricultural Farmland Technical Report Appendix E
- Aesthetics and Visual Resources Technical Report
- Aesthetics and Visual Resources Technical Report Appendix A
- Aesthetics and Visual Resources Technical Report Appendix B
- Environmental Justice Engagement Summary Report
- Environmental Justice Engagement Summary Report Appendix A
- Environmental Justice Engagement Summary Report Appendix B
- Environmental Justice Engagement Summary Report Appendix C
- Historic Architectural Survey Report
- Historic Architectural Survey Report Appendix A
- Historic Architectural Survey Report Appendix B
- Historic Architectural Survey Report Appendix C
- Historic Architectural Survey Report Appendix D through G1
- Historic Architectural Survey Report Appendix H
- Section 106 Findings of Effect Report1
- Section 106 Findings of Effect Report Appendix A
- Section 106 Findings of Effect Report Appendix B
- Section 106 Findings of Effect Report Appendix C
- Section 106 Findings of Effect Report Appendix D
- Checkpoint
- Checkpoint APDF Document
- Checkpoint B 20132
- Checkpoint B Addendum 3 2017
- Checkpoint B Addendum 4 2019
- Checkpoint C
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary ReportPDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix A (Redacted)PDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix B Part 1PDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix B Part 2PDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix B Part 3PDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix B Part 4PDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix B Part 5PDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix CPDF Document
- Checkpoint C 2020 Summary Report Appendix DPDF Document
- Transportation Resources Technical Report
1 This content is not available at libraries, County Clerks, and Authority offices as cited. If you have any questions about material availability relating to the Draft EIR/EIS please email san.jose_mercedhttps://hsr-staging.hsr.ca.gov with the subject line “Draft EIR/EIS Comment” or call (800) 455-8166.
2 Available on request and at libraries, County Clerks, and Authority offices as cited. If you have any questions about material availability relating to the Draft EIR/EIS please email san.jose_mercedhttps://hsr-staging.hsr.ca.gov with the subject line “Draft EIR/EIS Comment” or call (800) 455-8166.
Brief Explanation of Each Chapter
Volume 1: Report
Chapter 1, Project Purpose, Need, and Objectives, explains the Authority’s purpose and need for the San Jose to Merced Project Section and provides a history of the planning process. Chapter 2, Alternatives, describes the proposed project alternatives, as well as the No Project Alternative used for purposes of comparison. It contains illustrations and maps and provides a review of construction activities. These first two chapters help the reader understand what is being analyzed in the remainder of the document. Chapter 3, Affected Environment, Environmental Consequences, and Mitigation Measures, is where the reader can find information about the existing transportation, environmental, and social conditions in the vicinity of the San Jose to Central Valley Wye Project Extent. This chapter provides the findings of the analysis of potential environmental impacts, along with methods to reduce these impacts (called mitigation measures). Chapter 4, Section 4(f/6(f) Evaluation, provides the analysis to support the Authority’s determinations under Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 and Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act. Chapter 5, Environmental Justice, discusses whether the project alternatives may cause disproportionate impacts on low-income and minority communities. It also identifies mitigation to reduce those impacts where appropriate. Chapter 6, Project Costs and Operations, summarizes the estimated capital and operations and maintenance costs for each project alternative evaluated in this Draft EIR/EIS. Chapter 7, Other CEQA/NEPA Considerations, summarizes the project alternatives, the significant and unavoidable environmental impacts under CEQA, adverse environmental effects that cannot be avoided under NEPA, and the significant irreversible environmental changes that would occur as a result of the project alternatives or irretrievable commitments of resources or foreclosure of future options. Chapter 8, Preferred Alternative, describes the Preferred Alternative and the basis for identifying it. Chapter 9, Public and Agency Involvement, contains summaries of coordination and outreach activities with agencies and the general public during preparation of this Draft EIR/EIS. In addition, this chapter contains a list of common comments and the responses to this subset of comments. Chapter 10, Draft EIR/EIS Distribution, identifies the public agencies, tribes, and organizations that were informed of the availability of, and locations to review, this Draft EIR/EIS. Chapter 11, List of Preparers, provides the names and responsibilities of the authors of this Draft EIR/EIS. Chapter 12, References, lists references and contacts cited in writing this Draft EIR/EIS. Chapter 13, Glossary of Terms, provides a definition of certain terms used in this Draft EIR/EIS. Chapter 14, Index, provides a tool to cross-reference major topics addressed in this Draft EIR/EIS. Chapter 15, Acronyms and Abbreviations, defines the acronyms and abbreviations used in this Draft EIR/EIS.
Volume 2: Technical Appendices
Appendices provide additional details on the project alternatives and the Draft EIR/EIS process. The technical appendices are primarily related to the affected environment and environmental consequences analyses. These appendices are numbered to match their corresponding section in Chapters 2 and 3 of this Draft EIR/EIS (e.g., Appendix 3.7-A is the first appendix for Section 3.7, Biological and Aquatic Resources).
Volume 3: Preliminary Engineering Plans
These are detailed design drawings, including trackway, stations, structures, roadway crossings, maintenance facilities, tunnels, and systems.
- San Francisco to San Jose Project Section: Environmental Documents
- San Jose to Merced Project Section: Environmental Documents
- Merced to Fresno: Environmental Documents
- Merced to Fresno: Central Valley Wye: Environmental Documents
- Fresno to Bakersfield: Environmental Documents
- Fresno to Bakersfield: Locally Generated Alternative: Environmental Documents
- Bakersfield to Palmdale: Environmental Documents
- Palmdale to Burbank: Environmental Documents
- Burbank to Los Angeles Project Section: Environmental Documents
PROJECT SECTION ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTS
San Francisco to San Jose Project Section
- San Francisco to San Jose: Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
- San Francisco to San Jose: Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report/Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement
San Jose to Merced Project Section
- San Jose to Merced: Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
- San Jose to Merced: Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report/Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement
- San Jose to Merced: Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
Merced to Fresno Project Section
- Merced to Fresno: Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS)
- Merced to Fresno: Central Valley Wye Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
- Merced to Fresno: Central Valley Wye Revised Draft Supplemental EIR/Second Draft Supplemental EIS
- Merced to Fresno: Central Valley Wye Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
Fresno to Bakersfield Project Section
- Fresno to Bakersfield: Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS)
- Fresno to Bakersfield: Locally Generated Alternative Draft & Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS)
Bakersfield to Palmdale Project Section
- Bakersfield to Palmdale: Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
- Bakersfield to Palmdale: Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report/Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement
- Bakersfield to Palmdale: Final Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement
Burbank to Los Angeles Project Section
Project Section Details
Select a project section to learn more:
CONTACT
Environmental
(916) 324-1541
info@hsr.ca.gov
The California High-Speed Rail Authority makes every effort to ensure the website and its contents meet mandated ADA requirements as per the California State mandated Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 Level AA standard. If you are looking for a particular document not located on the California High-Speed Rail Authority website, you may make a request for the document under the Public Records Act through the Public Records Act page. If you have any questions about the website or its contents, please contact the Authority at info@hsr.ca.gov.