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SAN LEANDRO SHORELINE DEVELOPMENT DRAFT EIR <br />CITY OF SAN LEANDRO <br />AESTHETICS <br />4.1 AESTHETICS <br />This chapter discusses the existing aesthetic character of the Project site and its surroundings, and <br />evaluates the potential impacts to aesthetics associated with development of the Project. The following <br />evaluation assesses visual character, scenic vistas, scenic highways, and light and glare. The aesthetics <br />evaluation in this EIR is based in part on visual simulations prepared by the EIR consultant. <br />4.1.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING <br />4.1.1.1 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK <br />This section summarizes key State and City regulations and programs related to aesthetics at the Project <br />site. There are no specific federal regulations applicable to aesthetics. <br />San Leandro General Plan <br />The City of San Leandro General Plan was adopted in 2002 and contains a vision for San Leandro through <br />the year 2015 including policies and actions to help achieve that vision. The San Leandro General Plan' in <br />its Land Use, and Historic Preservation and Community Design Elements, contain goals and policies <br />applicable to the aesthetics of the Project site, as summarized in Table 4.1-1. These goals and policies <br />identify some of the methods for maintaining and enhancing the visual character and qualities of the City <br />of San Leandro, particularly related to the Project site and the surrounding area. <br />The San Leandro General Plan details a particular vision for certain "focal points" in the City of San <br />Leandro, including the San Leandro Marina, which is the location of the Project. The San Leandro Marina <br />is designated as a focal point because it is the centerpiece of the City's largest recreation area.Z As <br />indicated in the San Leandro General Plan, the site "offers unique opportunities for new commercial uses <br />that take advantage of the waterfront location, panoramic views, and proximity to nearby recreational <br />amenities."' Aesthetic values are often highly subjective; however, this San Leandro General Plan language <br />identifies key elements of the site's aesthetic character. Additionally, because the Marina is referred to as <br />the "crown jewel" in the City's park system, the Land Use Element calls for future development to <br />maintain high standards of quality. <br />The Historic Preservation and Community Design Element contains designated views, major gateways, key <br />gateway streets, and activity centers, all of which are intended to build on the sense of place in the city. <br />These elements are show in Figure 4.1-1, which was taken from the Historic Preservation and Community <br />Design Element of the San Leandro General Plan. As seen in Figure 4.1-1, the San Leandro General Plan <br />identifies a significant view from the Project site across the harbor and towards the San Francisco Bay. <br />' Note: The City of San Leandro General Plan 2002 was amended in 2001 to update the Housing Element. <br />2 City of San Leandro, General Plan 2002, Land Use Element, Chapter 3.3 Business and Industry, page 3-98. <br />' City of San Leandro, General Plan 2002, Land Use Element, Chapter 3.3 Business and Industry, page 3-98. <br />PLACEWORKS 4.1-1 <br />