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Variance No. 2007-01 March 26, 2007 Page 4 A supplement to the Parson's Report was provided by Austin-Foust Associates, Inc. This study was completed using the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Parking Generation Manual, which is regarded in the industry as the best source on parking demand. Using the ITE publication, the parking demand for industrial type users is 1.18 spaces per total square footage which is equal to the 1.18 parking ratio provided for the proposed project (Exhibit 6). Along with these studies, an actual case study of parking demand was conducted for a similar operation in the City of La Habra. This location is also in an industrial zone, consists of two buildings and has more square footage than the proposed Santa Ana location (108,400 square feet compared to 88,020 square feet at the Santa Ana location). Parking was observed for six days (two Fridays, two Saturdays and two Sunday's in November-December 2006). The results of those parking observations revealed a maximum parking demand of 42 spaces, 35 vehicles in the general customer parking lot and another seven vehicles loading lumber and other building supplies. Based upon the findings of the studies and actual parking demand case studies at three existing Contractors' Warehouse locations, the Austin- Foust Associates, Inc. study concluded that the peak parking demand on the single highest day of the year at the proposed Santa Ana HD Supply location will not exceed 90 parking spaces (including all contractor vehicles). Since 104 parking spaces have been provided on the site, the study concluded that there is adequate parking provided for HD Supply to occupy the proposed site. At the February 26, 2007 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission held a hearing and received testimony on the HD Supply project and the parking variance. After receiving extensive input, the Planning Commission continued the project for 30 days and asked staff to investigate four items: 1) The feasibility of establishing a permit parking district in the area; 2) Clarify the applicant's request related to the potential modification of Condition Nos. 9 and 10 that pertained to the location of rental equipment at the facility; 3) Identify if train activity blocks Fourth Street as they enter and exit the Santa Ana train station; and 4) Identify methods to prevent the loitering of day laborers at the facility. The first issue pertained to permit parking in the immediate area. The Public Works Agency has researched the feasibility of establishing a permit parking district in the area. Currently, the City does not have 31A-5