Item 26 - EIR No. 2020-03 and GPA No.2020-06 Santa Ana General Plan Update

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The majority of the proposed reclassifications aim to reduce existing rights -of -way for vehicular traffic lanes to make room for bicycle and pedestrian improvements. Landmark streets are also identified within or adjacent to the Santa Ana Downtown Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The circulation element update incorporates the proposed Santa Ana -Garden Grove Fixed Guideway project, which will introduce new transit service to the city. Santa Ana is working with Garden Grove and Orange County Transit Authority to build a fixed guideway system called the OC Streetcar. Expected to begin operations in 2021, the OC Streetcar will link the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center to a new multimodal hub at Harbor Boulevard/Westminster Avenue in Garden Grove. OC Streetcar will serve historic downtown Santa Ana and Civic Center. Along its four -mile route, OC Streetcar will connect with 18 Orange County Transit Authority bus routes and increase transportation options along Santa Ana Boulevard, 4th Street, the Pacific Electric right-of-way, and Harbor Boulevard. Focus Areas 1. South Main Street Focus Area The South Main Street focus area introduces the opportunity for greater flexibility and a more dynamic mix of land uses and urban design along the properties fronting Main Street. The intent is to transition an auto -dominated corridor into a transit- and pedestrian -friendly corridor through infill development without disrupting the surrounding lower -density neighborhoods. The objectives of this focus area are: ■ Facilitate redevelopment and property improvements along Main Street. ■ Create a more active and dynamic streetscape. ■ Protect established residential neighborhoods. ■ Support transit, pedestrian, and nonmotorized travel. The majority of properties fronting Main Street will be designated Urban Neighborhood, allowing for future development to include commercial uses, low- and medium -density housing, or a combination of both in a vertically mixed -use format. South of Warner Avenue, the Industrial/Flex designation will offer new options for small-scale manufacturing, live -work, and retail opportunities. The balance of the focus area will remain designated for Low Density Residential or Institutional to reflect the existing development patterns and land uses. New buildings and spaces will be sensitive to the surrounding low -density neighborhoods while still emphasizing the creation of active and attractive urban spaces. 2. Grand Avenue / 17th Street Focus Area The Grand Avenue / 17th Street focus area will foster the development of an urban mixed -use corridor connecting into the city's downtown and transit core. The intent is to create opportunities Santa Ana General Plan Update CEQA Findings of Fact and Statement Of Overriding Considerations -11- October 2021