Chapter 12.50
TRAFFIC IMPACT ANALYSIS REQUIREMENTS

Sections:

12.50.010    Purpose.

12.50.020    Applicability.

12.50.030    Organization and content.

12.50.010 Purpose.

It is the purpose of this chapter to outline the minimum content of a traffic impact analysis where required. A traffic impact analysis responds to a wide variety of issues, varying with the type of development, location of the proposed project, and existing traffic patterns. There are a number of issues that are incorporated into a traffic impact analysis to ensure an efficient and comprehensive review of the impacts associated with a development proposal. [Ord. 1694 § 1 (Att. A-2), 2024.]

12.50.020 Applicability.

A. A traffic impact analysis shall be submitted with a development permit application when it is determined by the city engineer that a development meets any of the following:

1. Generates 20 peak hourly trips or 200 average daily trips;

2. Exceeds the current or projected level of service of the roadway system adjacent to the development; or

3. The proposal would affect existing traffic problems in the local area of the project such as an area with a high accident ratio, confusing intersection, or other problems identified by the city engineer; or

4. A traffic impact analysis may also be required by the city engineer when it is determined that a development proposal may significantly impact adjacent areas.

B. Traffic impact analyses shall be prepared by a qualified engineer approved by the city engineer. [Ord. 1694 § 1 (Att. A-2), 2024.]

12.50.030 Organization and content.

A traffic impact analysis shall contain the following information:

A. Introduction and Summary.

1. Purpose of report and study objectives;

2. Executive summary:

a. Site location and study area;

b. Development description;

c. Principal findings;

d. Conclusions;

e. Recommendations and proposed mitigation measures.

B. Proposed development and summary of the development proposal, including the following:

1. Land use and intensity;

2. Location;

3. Site plan;

4. Zoning;

5. Phasing and timing.

C. Area conditions including the following:

1. Study area:

a. Area of influence;

b. Area of significant traffic impact.

2. Study area and land use:

a. Existing land uses;

b. Existing zoning;

c. Anticipated future development.

3. Site accessibility:

a. Existing and future area roadway system;

b. Traffic volumes and conditions;

c. Transit service;

d. Existing relevant transportation system management programs;

e. Other issues as determined by the city engineer and director.

D. Projected Traffic.

1. Site traffic for each horizon year:

a. Trip generation;

b. Trip distribution;

c. Modal split;

d. Trip assignment.

2. Through traffic (each horizon year):

a. Method of projection;

b. Nonsite traffic in study area including the method of projections, trip generation, trip distribution, modal split, and trip assignment;

c. Through traffic;

d. Estimated volumes.

3. Total traffic (each horizon year).

E. Traffic analysis including the following:

1. Site access;

2. Capacity and level of service, as defined in the comprehensive plan;

3. Traffic safety;

4. Traffic signals;

5. Site circulation and parking.

F. Improvement Analysis.

1. Improvements to accommodate base traffic;

2. Additional improvements to accommodate site traffic;

3. Alternative improvements;

4. Status of improvements already funded, programmed, or planned;

5. Evaluation.

G. Findings.

1. Site accessibility;

2. Traffic impacts;

3. Need for any improvements and financing plan;

4. Compliance with applicable codes.

H. Recommendations and Proposed Mitigation.

1. Site access/circulation plan;

2. Roadway improvements including on site, off site and a phasing plan when appropriate;

3. Transportation system management actions including off site, on site and operational.

I. Conclusions. [Ord. 1694 § 1 (Att. A-2), 2024.]