TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute a first amendment to Agreement No. 30246 with LSA Associates, Inc., for $124,465, and to execute any future documents necessary to complete the environmental assessment phase for the Colorado Lagoon Restoration Project, including any required amendments to the contract to extend the term. (District 3)
DISCUSSION
The Colorado Lagoon (Lagoon) is a 28.3-acre tidal lagoon located in the middle of a suburban neighborhood. It serves three main functions: 1) hosting sensitive estuarine habitat; 2) providing public recreation (including swimming); and 3) retaining and conveying storm flows. The Lagoon is used by hundreds of visitors from communities within and surrounding the City of Long Beach (City).
The water and sediment quality within the Lagoon has degraded over time. The Lagoon is currently listed on California's 303(d) list of impaired water bodies due to elevated levels of lead, zinc, chlordane, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the sediment and high-bacteria levels in the water. Contaminants of concern have also been found in fish and mussel tissue. While swimming remains a popular activity at the Lagoon, beach closures are common due to unacceptable levels of bacteria.
The purpose of the Colorado Lagoon Restoration Project is to restore the site's ecosystem, enhance recreational opportunities, and improve water and sediment quality while adequately managing storm water flows. In 2005, with funding support from the State Coastal Conservancy, Moffatt & Nichol Engineers prepared a Restoration Feasibility Study that set the groundwork for the current environmental assessment phase.
On August 14, 2007, the City Council authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with LSA Associates for the project's environmental assessment, as required under the California Environmental Quality Act. On May 28, 2008 the City released a draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The City also accepted public comments through July 11, 2008.
During the Colorado Lagoon EIR process several unanticipated issues arose that pushed the EIR past the original scope of work. Chief among those was the need for soil testing and a human health risk assessment for soil being excavated from Marina Vista Park for the open channel between the Lagoon and Marine Stadium. When the area was filled in the late 1960's, there was no record of the source. A history of poor plant health is a cause of concern. The current request is to amend the contract by adding $124,465, which will allow the adequate and timely completion of the required environmental report.
This report was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Richard F. Anthony on August 6, 2008 and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on August 8,2008.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on September 2, 2008 to avoid any penalties with grant funding agencies.
FISCAL IMPACT
The environmental assessment phase of the project is funded in part by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) grant. Sufficient funds are currently appropriated in the Capital Projects Fund (CP) in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) to support these activities.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dennis J. Thys, Director
Department of Community Development
Phil T. Hester, Director
Parks, Recreation and Marine
NAME |
APPROVED: |
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PATRICK H. WEST |
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CITY MANAGER |