Attachment A

Environmental Commitments

 

 

 

Attachment A. Environmental Commitments 

Table 1 

Mitigation Measures 

Resource Commitments 

Air Quality Mitigation Measure AQ-1: Fugitive Dust Control Plan during Construction to 

Meet Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District (MDAQMD) Rule 403 

(Fugitive Dust Control) Requirements. 

• Consistent with the MDAQMD Rule 403, Brightline West will 

implement the following control measures: 

o Use periodic watering (two times daily) for short-term 

stabilization of disturbed surface area to minimize visible 

fugitive dust emissions. Use of a water truck to maintain 

moist disturbed surfaces and actively spread water during 

visible dusting episodes will be considered sufficient to 

maintain compliance. 

Brightline West will take actions sufficient to prevent Project-related 

trackout onto paved surfaces. Actions may include the use of: 

•

o Gravel or aggregate vehicle tracking pads at temporary 

site entrances and exits. 

o Wash racks that use pressurized water to clean tires as 

they pass through. Wash racks introduce water to the 

trackout control system which must be contained within the 

jobsite. 

o Rumble plates, rumble strips, cattle guards that use 

vibration to shake off debris from vehicle tires. 

o Cover loaded haul vehicles while operating on publicly 

maintained paved surfaces. 

o Stabilize graded site surfaces upon completion of grading 

when subsequent development is delayed or expected to 

be delayed more than 30 days, except when such a delay 

is due to precipitation that dampens the disturbed surface 

sufficiently to eliminate visible fugitive dust emissions. 

o Clean-up Project-related trackout or spills on publicly 

maintained paved surfaces within 24 hours. 

o Reduce nonessential earth-moving activity under high wind 

conditions. A reduction in earth-moving activity when 

visible dusting occurs from moist and dry surfaces due to 

wind erosion will be considered sufficient to maintain 

compliance. 

• Alternatively, Brightline West may apply for and obtain an 

MDAQMD-approved Alternative PM10 Control Plan that incorporates 

emission reducing measures other than those defined above, as 

long as it generates equivalent emission reductions and is obtained 

pursuant to the requirements outlined in MDAQMD Rule 403. 

Mitigation Measure AQ-2: Fugitive Dust Control Plan during Construction to 

Meet South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 403 

Requirements. 

• Brightline West will follow all regulatory requirements applicable to 

fugitive dust mitigation according to the Best Available Cost 

1 July 2023 
 

 

Measures in Table 1 of Rule 403. This includes, but is not limited to, 

submittal of Fugitive Dust Control Plan and all permits required by 

the SCAQMD and the City of Rancho Cucamonga. 

Mitigation Measure AQ-3: Utilize additional means to reduce construction 

period emissions of air pollutants. 

• Brightline West will prepare a memorandum demonstrating that 

construction-period emissions of criteria air pollutants will not exceed 

General Conformity de minimis thresholds by integrating control 

measures into approved design-build plans. Examples of control 

measures include the following: 

o All off-road internal-combustion engine construction 

equipment will be California Environmental Protection 

Agency (CalEPA) Tier-4 Final certified. 

o All signal boards will be solar-powered. 

o All architectural coatings products will contain no more 

than 250 grams of volatile organic compound (VOCs) per 

liter of coating (2.08 pounds per gallon). 

The memorandum will be reviewed by a qualified air quality specialist prior to 

commencement of construction activities. If an exceedance of de minimis 

thresholds is found, Brightline West will consult with FRA. 

Transportation None (adverse effects reduced through implementation of avoidance and 

minimization measures or BMPs; see Table 2). 

Land Use and Community 

Facilities 

None (no impacts identified). 

Socioeconomic Environment None (no impacts identified). 

Hazards Mitigation Measure HAZ-1: Preparation of an Hazardous Materials 

Management Plan (HMMP) prior to application for construction permits 

• Brightline West will prepare a HMMP prior to application for permits 

for demolition, grading, or construction, as required by the State of 

California. The HMMP will be utilized during all phases of 

construction and will address underground storage tank (UST) 

decommissioning, field screening, materials testing methods, 

mitigation and contaminant management requirements, and health 

and safety requirements. 

• Prior to any construction activities, Brightline West will develop an 

accurate contact list that includes telephone numbers for regulatory 

agencies, Health and Safety personnel, the National Response 

Center, and cleanup contractors with whom there is a preestablished agreement for response. The list will also include all 

appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies that must be 

contacted when a discharge or discovery occurs. These agencies 

may include: 

o Lahontan and Santa Ana RWQCBs 

o Department of Toxic Substances Control 

o City toxics management divisions 

o San Bernardino County Department of Environmental 

Health 

• Brightline West will also prepare and implement a HMMP for the 

OSFM. During Project operation, Brightline West will ensure the 

safe handling, use, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in 

accordance with the HMMP. 

• Brightline West will monitor disturbed soil for visual evidence of 

contamination (staining or discoloration). Soil will be monitored for 

the presence of volatile organic compounds using appropriate field 

instruments. If the monitoring procedures indicate the possible 

presence of contaminated soil, Brightline West will develop and 

implement a plan that identifies procedures for segregation, 

sampling, and chemical analysis of the soil. Contaminated soil will 

be profiled for disposal and will be transported with appropriate 

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hazardous or non-hazardous waste manifests by a properly certified 

hazardous material hauler to a state-certified disposal or recycling 

facility licensed to accept and treat the type of waste indicated by 

the profiling process. 

• In the event that construction activities or soil removal processes 

generate any contaminated groundwater that must be disposed of 

outside of the dewatering/NPDES process, Brightline West will 

ensure the groundwater is profiled, manifested, hauled, and 

disposed of in the same manner as hazardous materials. 

• Brightline West will develop a well-developed hazardous material 

program, prior to construction, and will use non-hazardous 

substances in routine construction and maintenance activities when 

available. Brightline West will dispose of all hazardous or solid 

wastes and debris encountered or generated during construction 

and demolition activities. 

• Brightline West will maintain copies of the required Occupational 

Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety Data Sheets for 

each hazardous chemical and will ensure that the copies are readily 

accessible during each work shift. 

Mitigation Measure HAZ-2: 

Brightline West will prepare a HMMP prior to applying for operation permits, 

consistent with applicable requirements in the State of California. Brightline 

West will update the operational HMMP, as necessary, and will address 

Underground Storage Tank decommissioning, field screening, materials 

testing methods, mitigation and contaminant management requirements, and 

health and safety requirements. 

Energy Resources None (no impacts identified). 

Cultural Resources None (no impacts identified). 

Aesthetics None (adverse effects reduced through implementation of avoidance and 

minimization measures or BMPs; see Table 2). 

Noise and Vibration Mitigation Measure NOI-1: Brightline West will prepare a detailed Noise 

Control Plan. The Noise Control Plan will list all construction equipment to be 

used throughout the construction period and will provide a construction 

schedule detailing when and where each piece of machinery will be used. 

Anticipated noise levels at sensitive receptors will be quantified and 

avoidance, minimization, and/or mitigation measures will be identified where 

anticipated noise levels would exceed relevant local noise thresholds. Noise 

levels with and without proposed avoidance, minimization, and mitigation 

measures will be modeled to demonstrate the efficacy of such measures. 

Mitigation Measure NOI-2: Brightline West will comply with all applicable 

local noise regulations. Consistent with applicable law, Brightline West will 

apply the following measures to minimize temporary construction noise and 

vibration impacts: 

• Avoid nighttime construction in residential neighborhoods, 

• Locate stationary construction equipment as far as possible from 

noise-sensitive sites, 

• Construct noise barriers, such as temporary walls or piles of 

excavated material, between noisy activities and noise-sensitive 

receivers, 

• Route construction-related truck traffic to roadways that will cause 

the least disturbance to residents, and 

• Use alternative construction methods to minimize the use of impact 

and vibratory equipment (e.g., pile-drivers and compactors). 

Water Quality Mitigation Measure WQ-1: Brightline West will install erosion control BMPs, 

as outlined in the Caltrans Construction Site BMPs Manual (Caltrans 2017). 

In the final construction plans, Brightline West will specify BMPs for grading 

and erosion control that are necessary to reduce erosion and sedimentation. 

Brightline West will select BMPs to achieve maximum sediment removal 

using the best available technology. Brightline West will implement standard 

erosion control measures, such as management, and structural and 

vegetative controls, for all construction activities that expose soil. Brightline 

West may use a phased approach during the installation of the permanent 

erosion and sediment control measures, to limit the extent of water quality 

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monitoring needed during construction phases, consistent with applicable 

law. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-2: Brightline West will comply with the statewide 

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction 

General Permit (CGP), and, as applicable, file a Notice of Intent to discharge 

stormwater and to prepare and implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention 

Plan (SWPPP). Brightline West will ensure that construction activities comply 

with the conditions in the CGP, including implementing the SWPPP, BMPs, 

and monitoring to ensure that impacts on water quality are avoided, 

minimized, or mitigated. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-3: Brightline West will implement the SWPPP, as 

described in Mitigation Measure WQ-2 to reduce the likelihood that 

stormwater will carry any spilled contaminants to water channels. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-4: Brightline West will develop a Spill Prevention, 

Control, and Countermeasures (SPCC) plan to prevent accidental releases of 

chemicals that are stored on site and measures to use in the case of a spill. 

The BMPs described in the SPCC Plan will apply to construction activities 

and operation activities. Brightline West will implement appropriate hazardous 

material management practices identified in the SPCC Plan to reduce the 

potential for chemical spills or release of contaminants, including any nonstormwater discharge to drainage channels. If a spill occurs, Brightline West 

will implement cleanup, containment, and response measures outlined in the 

SPCC Plan. Brightline West will immediately notify the Caltrans Resident 

Engineer, Caltrans Construction Stormwater Coordinator, and the California 

Regional Water Quality Control board if a spill occurs. Brightline West will 

ensure that the phone numbers and emergency contact information of the 

appropriate parties are up to date at all times. Rancho Cucamonga Fire 

Protection District (RCFPD) is the emergency response agency for hazardous 

materials in the City of Rancho Cucamonga. San Bernardino County Fire 

Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Division us the emergency response agency 

for hazardous materials in the City of Hesperia. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-5: During Project design, Brightline West will locate 

Temporary Construction Areas to avoid key water features, such as the 

Mojave River, Cajon Wash, and California Aqueduct, and will avoid other 

water resources, to the greatest extent possible. Brightline West will use 

existing paved areas as staging areas, to the greatest extent possible, to 

minimize soil and groundwater disturbance. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-6: During Project construction, Brightline West will 

obtain water from existing, commercially available water sources. Brightline 

West will not develop new groundwater wells or surface impoundments, 

unless authorized under applicable law. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-7: To protect water quality, Brightline West will 

install permanent water quality treatment devices in accordance with the 

statewide National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 

Construction General Permit (CGP) at the Hesperia station, Rancho 

Cucamonga station, and the longitudinal rail alignment. BMPs for water 

quality include vegetated swales, traction sand traps, or settling basins to help 

remove sediments and nutrients. Brightline West will ensure implemented 

BMPs are sized properly and designed by a registered professional engineer 

to prevent untreated stormwater runoff from entering the Mojave River, the 

California Aqueduct, or any washes along the alignment. 

Mitigation Measure WQ-8: Where necessary, Brightline West will redesign 

and resize the existing drainage features to accommodate the potential 

increase in runoff along the rail alignment. Brightline West will design the rail 

alignment to connect with and mirror the existing culverts along the I-15 

highway, to the greatest extent possible. To determine the adequate size of 

drainage facilities, the total increase in impervious surface of the final design 

of the facilities will be included in a Rational Method (a way of calculating flow 

intensity) calculation to determine the increase in peak storm discharges 

resulting from the Project. Brightline West will use the 100-year, 24-hour 

storm event to determine the appropriate size of drainage facilities needed for 

the Project. Brightline West will design stormwater treatment with the Caltrans 

Project Planning and Design Guide. 

July 2023 4 
Wetlands and Streams None (adverse effects reduced through implementation of avoidance and 

minimization measures or BMPs; see Table 2). 

Floodplains None (adverse effects reduced through implementation of avoidance and 

minimization measures or BMPs; see Table 2). 

Biological Resources Mitigation Measure BIO-1: Brightline West will ensure that qualified 

biologists are present for construction activities along the following portions of 

the Project alignment: 

• Mojave Desert vicinity: From the northern-most Project extent, 

continuing south to the I-15 Bridge over D/E Street in Victorville -

Focusing on protection of least Bell’s vireo, and critical habitat for 

southwestern willow flycatcher 

• Cajon Canyon and Cajon Summit vicinity: From I-15 at Oak Hill 

Road to I-15 at Hall Ranch Road - Focusing on protection of least 

Bell’s vireo, arroyo toad, and critical habitat for arroyo toad.

• Cajon Wash and Lytle Creek vicinity: From I-15 at Hall Ranch Road 

to I-15 at Summit Avenue. Focusing on protection of San 

Bernardino Kangaroo Rat, ESA-listed plants, and critical habitat for 

San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat. 

No biologist is required during construction along portions of the alignment not 

listed above—for example, in urban areas of Rancho Cucamonga, Hesperia, 

and Victorville—although Brightline West may choose to utilize resource 

monitors/biological monitors at their discretion in these areas to ensure 

environmental compliance. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-2: Brightline West will not commence the following 

construction activities during bird breeding season at the three locations 

along the alignment identified in this mitigation measure. The construction 

activities are vegetation disturbance, pile driving, and ground disturbance 

(defined below). This mitigation measure does not apply to other construction 

activities or other locations. Three separate locations of Avian Avoidance 

Exclusion Areas are: 

• Area 1. Mojave River 

• Area 2. Cajon Wash 

• Area 3. Lytle Creek 

Figures showing the exclusion areas are provided in USFWS Biological 

Opinion. 

Vegetation disturbance activities, including clearing and grubbing of 

vegetation, are prohibited in exclusion areas during closure dates. 

Pile driving and ground disturbance activities are prohibited in exclusion areas 

during closure dates unless the work is initiated prior to the start of the closure 

period. In addition, Brightline West will not commence impact pile driving at 

the Mojave River Crossing between March 15 and May 31. Project-related 

ground disturbance is defined as: 

• Site preparation including grading and establishment of construction 

access, and 

• Grading, earth moving, stockpiling materials, excavation, and filling 

activities. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-3: Brightline West will ensure all Project staff 

including, contractors, operators, consultants, field personnel, and 

subcontractors, attend a mandatory environmental awareness training 

program. The program will be developed and presented by qualified 

biologists. The curriculum will cover the following, at a minimum: 

• Awareness information for each ESA-listed species potentially 

present and designated critical habitats in the Project area 

• The legal protection for each ESA-listed species, critical habitats, 

and the definition of “take” for listed species 

• Measures to protect ESA-listed species during construction 

• Review of the Project’s environmental commitments, restoration 

steps, and mitigation requirements 

• Explain the reasoning behind the restrictions on the construction, 

where restrictions exist 

• Importance of avoiding ground-disturbing activities outside the 

designated work areas, closing construction gates, and visually 

surveying designated work zones prior to moving equipment 

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• The location of any occupied ESA-listed species habitat and any 

suitable habitat within designated critical habitat areas within 400 

feet of the Project footprint. 

• Requirements for ground and general areas inspection prior to 

moving vehicles and equipment 

• Explain the problem of generalist predators, such as common 

ravens (Corvus corax) 

• Explain the importance of keeping construction areas free from 

trash and litter and avoiding subsidizing generalist predators 

• Penalties for violation of Federal and State environmental laws 

Training will be documented, including names of trainees and dates of 

completion. All trained workers will be given an identifying sticker to be worn 

on site. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-4: At least 60 calendar days prior to the start of 

Project-related ground disturbance that would occur within 400 feet of any 

occupied ESA-listed habitat or within any suitable habitat within designated 

critical habitat areas, Brightline West will develop a written Biological 

Monitoring During Construction Plan (Plan) and submit the Plan for approval 

by USFWS Palm Springs Fish and Wildlife Office (PSFWO). 

The Plan will discuss the type, locations, and timing of physical disturbance: 

(1) within 400 feet of any occupied ESA-listed species habitat, or (2) within 

suitable habitat within designated critical habitat areas. The Plan will provide 

details of construction monitoring to be completed. 

The Plan will identify appropriate monitoring and reporting needs during 

construction, including responsibilities, timing, and monitoring activities 

including information to be collected, and will identify coordination 

requirements, safety requirements, and communications, including points of 

contact. Brightline West will implement the Plan during construction to ensure 

compliance with the ESA, and environmental commitments, as described in 

the Plan. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-5: No more than 120 calendar days after the 

completion of construction, Brightline West will develop and submit a 

Construction Monitoring, and Restoration Report to PSFWO for any 

construction areas: (1) within 400 feet of any occupied ESA-listed species 

habitat, or (2) within suitable habitat within designated critical habitat areas. 

The report will include the results of construction monitoring, pre- and postconstruction photographs, and the type and locations of installed mitigation 

and restoration measures and a discussion of planned restoration measures. 

The report will include reporting on exclusion fencing monitoring and repairs. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-6: Brightline West will employ a qualified biologist to 

take pre- and post-construction photographs to document habitat conditions 

and alterations within the limits of disturbance during construction activities. 

Photographs will be dated, their locations recorded, and they will be stored in 

a manner that will allow access for reporting purposes. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-7: In areas adjacent to sensitive resources, 

Brightline West will restrict all work to designated work areas through the use 

of visible demarcation. 

The following are locations of sensitive resources: 

• Mojave Desert vicinity: From the northern-most Project extent, 

continuing south to the I-15 Bridge over D/E Street in Victorville. 

• Cajon Canyon and Cajon Summit vicinity: From I-15 at Oak Hill 

Road to I-15 at Hall Ranch Road. 

• Cajon Wash and Lytle Creek vicinity: From I-15 at Hall Ranch Road 

to I-15 at Summit Avenue. 

The contractor will avoid any unauthorized disturbance of native vegetation 

and sensitive resources outside the designated work area. Remnant habitat 

and existing stands of native vegetation will be identified and protected 

wherever possible. 

During construction, Brightline West will inspect the visible demarcation 

monthly, and will ensure that construction equipment, vehicles, and 

associated activities remain within designated construction work areas. 

July 2023 6 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mitigation Measure BIO-8: Prior to ground-disturbing activities, Brightline 

West will employ a qualified biologist to perform a noxious weed within the 

temporary construction impact areas outside the I-15 median. Brightline West 

will manage “A” and “B” rated weeds on the California Department of Food 

and Agriculture’s Weed Pest Ratings table, per Caltrans landscape 

management requirements. During construction, Brightline West will avoid the 

introduction or spread of noxious weeds by employing a qualified biologist to 

perform annual re-inspections and implementing weed removal/control in 

temporary construction impact areas and in restoration areas. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-9: Brightline West will ensure that supplies, 

equipment, and/or construction excavations where wildlife such as San 

Bernardino Kangaroo Rat (SBKR) could hide (e.g., materials stockpiles, 

equipment in staging areas, and under vehicles) are inspected by all 

construction crew members prior to moving or working on or with them to 

avoid killing or injuring wildlife. If wildlife is detected, Brightline West will 

contact the qualified biologist. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-10: Brightline West will preserve any dead 

biological material encountered related to ESA-listed species in the best 

possible state for later analysis. Preservation may include chilling and general 

protection from disturbance. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-11: Brightline West will prepare and implement a 

Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control Plan that identifies best 

management practices (BMPs) best suited for site conditions, in accordance 

with applicable Caltrans standards for erosion and sediment control. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-12: 

Brightline West will develop and implement a Spill Prevention, Control, and 

Countermeasures Plan for construction activities to manage and reduce risk 

for chemical spills or releases of contaminants, including any non-stormwater 

discharge to drainage channels. If a spill occurs, Brightline West will 

implement cleanup, containment, and response measures in accordance with 

the Plan. Brightline West will immediately contain any accidental spills and 

report to the California Office of Emergency Services (1-800-852-7650) and 

the National Response Center (1-800-424-8802). 

Mitigation Measure BIO-13: 

Brightline West will not store construction equipment, chemicals, fuels, or 

lubricants within the 100-year floodplain of any water feature. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-14: Brightline West will ensure that all equipment 

maintenance and dispensing of fuel, oil, coolant, or any other such activities is 

restricted to the designated staging areas outside of the Mojave River 

floodplain, Cajon Wash, and Lytle Creek to prevent the release of hazardous 

substances into these sensitive areas. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-15: 

Brightline West will develop and implement a Fugitive Dust Control Plan that 

includes, at a minimum, the following: 

• Reduce nonessential earth-moving activity under high-wind 

conditions when visible dusting occurs from surfaces due to wind 

erosion. 

• Water will be used for stabilization of surfaces for fugitive dust 

control within 400 feet of areas occupied by ESA-listed species, or 

within suitable habitat within designated critical habitat areas. 

• Periodic watering for short-term stabilization of disturbed surface 

area. 

• Prevent track-out onto paved surfaces and clean up any tracked 

materials immediately. 

• Stabilize graded site surfaces upon completion of grading when 

subsequent development is delayed or expected to be delayed 

more than 30 days, except when such a delay is due to precipitation 

that dampens the disturbed surface sufficiently to eliminate visible 

fugitive dust emissions. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-16: Brightline West will install permanent 

stabilization measures upon completion of construction along washes and in 

other areas of potential erosion. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-17: Brightline West will obtain water from existing 

commercially available water sources during construction. Brightline West will 

7 July 2023 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

not develop new groundwater wells or surface water impoundments, unless 

authorized under applicable law. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-18: Brightline West will design or redesign existing 

stormwater systems to accommodate runoff from impervious surfaces. 

Drainage facilities will detain flows and will not contribute to additional flows in 

rivers, streams, and washes. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-19: Brightline West will design all new utility lines 

and ancillary structures required for the Project in a manner that will reduce 

the likelihood of bird nesting, especially by common ravens. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-20: Brightline West will design and install 

permanent water quality treatment devices, in compliance with applicable 

state and local requirements, to meet water quality objectives (i.e, 

concentrations, levels, or narrative statements representing a quality of water 

that supports a particular use) defined in the Lahontan Basin Plan and Santa 

Ana River Basin Plan. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-21: Brightline West will employ noise control 

measures to reduce noise from construction including: 

• Use equipment with enclosed engines and/or high-performance 

mufflers. 

• Locate stationary construction equipment as far as possible from 

noise-sensitive sites. 

• Construct noise barriers, such as temporary walls or piles of 

excavated material, between noisy activities and noise-sensitive 

receivers. 

• Route truck traffic along roadways that will cause the least 

disturbance to species. 

• Where pile driving is needed, use sonic/vibratory pile driver 

wherever possible. Where impact pile drivers must be used near 

noise-sensitive receptors, implement a slow start and limit activity to 

daylight hours to the extent possible. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-22: 

Brightline West will implement a litter-control program during construction to 

avoid subsidizing (feeding) generalized scavengers, such as common ravens. 

The program will include: 

• Use of covered, common-raven-proof trash receptacles 

• Daily removal of trash from the trash receptacles 

• Daily site inspections 

• Proper disposal of trash in a designated solid waste disposal facility 

Precautions will also be taken by the contractor to prevent trash from blowing 

out of construction vehicles 

Mitigation Measure BIO-23: Brightline West will develop and implement 

operational standards to mitigate subsidized predation and maintain railway 

and stations free of food and habitat elements that subsidize generalist 

scavengers, such as common ravens. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-24: 

Brightline West will ensure that no feeding of wildlife occurs during 

construction and operations. No pets or firearms will be allowed in the 

construction area. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-25: Brightline West will design new culverts, 

bridges, and viaducts required for the Project to align with any existing I-15 

structures to maintain a continuous wildlife crossing corridor. Where the 

alignment of new culvert, bridges, or viaduct will deviate from alignment with 

existing I-15 structures, Brightline West will design and install appropriately 

sized crossing structures at appropriate intervals to allow for terrestrial wildlife 

to pass under the proposed alignment. Modified wildlife crossings would be 

designed to maintain pre-existing characteristics to the extent feasible. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-26: Brightline West will develop and implement 

Restoration Plans to restore areas of native vegetation that are temporarily 

disturbed by construction. The Plan will specify the following: 

• Within Caltrans right-of-way, restoration will follow Caltrans 

requirements. 

• Within Caltrans right-of-way, in areas that are also within designated 

critical habitat, restoration will follow Caltrans requirements and 

include habitat structure consideration for the relevant species. 

July 2023 8 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brightline West will initiate restoration within one year after the completion of 

construction at any location along the alignment, during the appropriate 

seasonal window. Brightline West will not delay in commencing replanting 

within these areas. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-27: Brightline West will stockpile and protect 

removed native topsoil and will use the stockpiled topsoil in restoration and 

landscaped areas. Brightline West will ensure areas from where topsoil is 

recovered is free from invasive plant species. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-28: In consultation with the Caltrans District 

Landscape Architect, Brightline West will develop and implement permanent 

or temporary irrigation systems to supply water to replacement landscape 

plantings. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-29: Brightline West will design nighttime lighting at 

passenger stations and along the rail alignment to minimize light intensity, 

duration, and distribution and will utilize wildlife- and insect-sensitive spectrum 

lighting to reduce the negative effects of artificial nighttime lighting to sensitive 

species. Brightline West will incorporate light and glare screening measures—

for example, use downward-cast lighting—and will use motion sensor lighting, 

at passenger stations where appropriate. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-30: Brightline West will promptly remove all trackkilled animals along the operating rail line to reduce adverse effects 

associated with food subsidies to generalist predators, such as common 

ravens. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-31: Throughout the life of the project, Brightline 

West will annually monitor catenary and ancillary structures, power poles, 

auxiliary buildings, passenger stations, and parking areas to identify and 

remove common raven nests outside of the nesting season. Once raven 

nesting sites are identified, actions will be taken to block the site from raven 

reuse. In coordination with PSFWO, adaptive management may be 

undertaken if the initial measures are unsuccessful to remove common raven 

nests. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-32: During operations, and to mitigate potential 

subsidized predation, Brightline West will plan and implement operational 

standards for maintaining railway and passenger stations to not support 

generalist predators. Stations and other operations areas will be maintained 

free of food sources and will mitigate identified habitat support elements that 

facilitate opportunist predators. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-33: Within 120 calendar days following the 

completion of restoration activities, Brightline West will develop an Invasive 

Plant Species Monitoring and Control Plan for review and approval by 

PSFWO. Brightline West will monitor invasive plant species in the restored 

temporarily disturbed areas and within operational areas monthly from 

January through June for two growing seasons following completion of initial 

restoration. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-34: Brightline West will employ a qualified biologist 

to conduct surveys for the presence of suitable habitat for arroyo toad within 

the Caltrans right-of-way, prior to the start of construction. Suitable habitat 

areas are likely present in the vicinity of tributaries to Cajon Creek and are not 

likely in any other locations within the Project. Brightline West will coordinate 

with PSFWO prior to implementation of any survey. Information on monitoring 

within suitable habitat will be included in the Monitoring Plan identified in 

Mitigation Measure BIO-4. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-35: Brightline West will employ a qualified biologist 

to conduct presence/absence surveys at all locations within Caltrans right-ofway identified to have suitable habitat prior to the start of ground disturbance 

within 150-feet of ground disturbance. Survey procedures will be consistent 

with survey protocols for arroyo toad (USFWS 1999b). If surface water is 

present, surveys will be conducted during the breeding season, which 

generally occurs from March 15 through July 1. Information on monitoring 

within occupied habitat will be included in the Monitoring Plan identified 

Mitigation Measure BIO-4. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-36: Brightline West will employ a qualified biologist 

to capture and relocate any identified arroyo toads present within the 

surveyed areas prior to the start of any ground disturbance that would occur 

within 150 feet of the surveyed area. 

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Captured animals will be released as soon as possible following capture. 

Capture and handling procedures will follow the directives of the Declining 

Amphibian Task Force’s Fieldwork Code of Practice. The Fieldwork Code of 

Practice provides procedures for reducing the risk of spread of amphibian 

diseases and/or parasites during handling. 

Animals will be released within the closest available habitat of equivalent or 

superior suitability to the habitat in which the animals were found, and at least 

150 feet from any area of the Project’s potential ground disturbance. The 

qualified biologist will determine the best location for release. Where feasible, 

animals will be released downstream within the same drainage captured. 

Release areas will be selected based on arroyo toad habitat requirements, 

generally including relatively broad, streamside flats with scattered vegetation 

located adjacent to shallow pools that have unvegetated sand bars or gravel 

bars. Adjacent upland may be vegetated with coastal sage scrub, chaparral, 

grassland, or oak woodland. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-37: For all areas within the active ground 

disturbance footprint that is also within 150 feet of the location of an arroyo 

toad capture, a biologist will perform daily clearance surveys prior to the 

initiation of any ground disturbing operations for that the day. The clearance 

survey area will be defined as the location where the toad was captured plus 

the surrounding area within 150 feet. The qualified biologist will have the 

authority to delay ground disturbance activities within the clearance survey 

area until the clearance is complete. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-38: The qualified biologist shall notify PSFWO 

within two business days of any capture and release actions. 

Mitigation Measures BIO-39: Within 90 calendar days following capture and 

release, an Arroyo Toad Summary will be developed by the biologist and 

submitted to PSFWO. The summary will provide information on handling 

methods used, photographs, numbers of animals handled, and maps with 

coordinates of capture and release locations of arroyo toads. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-40: Brightline West will employ a qualified biologist 

to conduct surveys to document the presence of suitable habitat for least 

Bell’s vireo in areas of mapped potential suitable habitat, prior to the start of 

construction. Brightline West will coordinate with PSFWO prior to 

implementation of any survey. Brightline West will prepare and submit a 

summary memorandum with the results of the survey to PSFWO no later than 

14 days after completion. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-41: Preconstruction surveys will be conducted 

within 400 feet of any proposed ground disturbance at any location identified 

to have suitable habitat following standard protocols. Information on any 

occupied habitat monitoring will be included in the Monitoring Plan identified 

in Mitigation Measure BIO-4. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-42: Brightline West will employ a PSFWO-approved 

biologist to conduct to identify areas within the construction Temporary and 

Permanent Limits of Disturbance that may support SBKR, in collaboration 

with PSFWO and prior to the start of any ground disturbance. Brightline West 

will also assess areas outside of the Temporary and Permanent Limits of 

Disturbance and also within the Caltrans right-of-way in SBKR critical habitat 

for areas that may support SBKR. Suitable habitat is most likely be located 

along the Project alignment between the vicinity of Hall Ranch Road and the 

vicinity of Summit Avenue and could be encountered in Cajon Wash, Lytle 

Creek, and or terraces adjacent to these features. 

Areas identified to have suitable habitat for SBKR will be called “SBKR

restricted work areas.” Brightline West will not include areas of existing 

infrastructure and areas lying between I-15 highway lanes (median) in SBKR 

restricted work areas. 

The Physical and Biological Features for SBKR critical habitat are: 

• (PBF 1) Soil series consisting predominantly of sand, loamy sand, 

sandy loam, or loam; 

• (PBF 2) Alluvial sage scrub and associated vegetation such as 

coastal sage scrub and chamise chaparral, with a moderately open 

canopy; 

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• (PBF 3) River, creek, stream, and wash channels that are subject to 

dynamic geomorphological and hydrological processes typical of 

fluvial systems; and 

• (PBF 4) Upland areas adjacent to more suitable habitat that serve 

as refugia during large-scale flooding. 

SBKR suitable habitat, protected as SBKR restricted work areas, will be 

further classified as Moderate habitat when evidence of PBFs 1, 2, and 3, but 

not 4 are present, or as High habitat when evidence of PBF 4 is present. 

Coordination with and approval by PSFWO will occur to identify and refine the 

boundaries of SBKR restricted work areas. 

Information on monitoring of SBKR restricted work areas during construction 

will be included in the Monitoring Plan identified Mitigation Measure BIO-4. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-43: Surveys for SBKR will be performed by qualified 

biological monitors who are either approved by the PSFWO or are section 

10(A)(1)(a) permit holders which allow handling of SBKR. Permit holder 

names and permit numbers will be provided to the PSFWO for record keeping 

purposes. Resumes for qualified SBKR biological monitors who do not hold a 

section 10(A)(1)(a) permit will be submitted via email to the PSFWO biologist 

assigned to the Project for record- keeping purposes and approval. The 

PSFWO will have 7 calendar days to approve biological monitors based on 

submitted qualifications. If the PSFWO does not respond within seven 

calendar days, it will be assumed that all biological monitors are approved. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-44: Trapping for SBKR will be performed by 

qualified biological monitors prior to the start of ground-disturbing activities 

within SBKR restricted work areas per details provided in Appendix D of the 

Biological Opinion in order to remove animal from the work area. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-45: Based on survey results, PSFWO, in 

collaboration with Brightline West, will determine where captured SBKR are 

released. Captured SBKR will be released to either: 

• Suitable unoccupied habitat within Caltrans right-of-way adjacent to 

the project site, or 

• Suitable unoccupied habitat within Caltrans right-of-way beyond the 

limits of temporary and permanent impacts, or 

• A receiving conservation bank, preferably located within the same 

watershed as original trapping location. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-46: Prior to initiating ground-disturbing activities 

within any portion of SBKR restricted work areas, SBKR barrier fencing will be 

installed by the contractor or biologist to separate the construction activities 

from the surrounding area and allow clearance of the restricted work area. 

• SBKR barrier fencing will be constructed with suitable fencing for 

effective small mammal exclusion that uses anti-climb technology 

30 to 36 inches high above ground with the bottom buried at least 

12 inches deep with a 6-inch apron lying at 12 inches deep at a right 

angle. 

• No gaps greater than 0.5 inch will be allowed. 

• The biologist or the biologist’s representative will be present when 

the fence is installed to ensure that no burrows or burrow entrances 

are covered by the apron of the barrier fence. 

• Within in 14 calendar days of the conclusion of exclusion fence 

installation, Brightline West will submit to PSFWO an Exclusion 

Fencing Report indicating the locations of fence along with 

photographs 

Mitigation Measure BIO-47: For the duration of construction work within the 

SBKR restricted work area, the PSFWO-approved Biologist(s) shall: 

• Review the previous week’s construction activities and the 

upcoming week’s construction activities to determine if there are 

areas that need additional inspection, fencing, or monitoring. 

• Inspect the SBKR barrier fencing at the end of each workday during 

construction. 

• Repair any gaps in the barrier fence prior to leaving the site at the 

end of the workday. 

• Inspect SBKR barrier fencing, and repair as needed at least weekly 

during any pause in construction of greater than 1 week. 

• Search the construction footprint for any kangaroo rat sign early in 

the morning and prior to any ground-disturbing activities. 

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• Contact PSFWO immediately if kangaroo rat sign is detected inside 

the barrier fencing. 

• Provide a weekly written report of construction monitoring activities 

and findings to PSFWO within 4 business days following the end of 

each week during ground-disturbing construction within the SBKR 

restricted work area. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-48: Prior to ground disturbance, the PSFWOapproved biologist will conduct pre-construction trapping of SBKR inside 

exclusion fenced areas. Trapping will be conducted at each location until no 

SBKR are trapped for two consecutive nights. Initial trapping is required to be 

performed on the evening of the first day on which the barrier fence 

installation is complete. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-49: The biologist will implement the SBKR 

Translocation Plan, which provides procedures and protocols to follow when 

SBKR are relocated from the SBKR restricted work areas 

Mitigation Measure BIO-50: The biologist(s) will house and release all 

captured SBKR as soon as possible following trapping. The captured SBKR 

will be housed in suitable facilities until they are released. The protocol for 

housing trapped SBKR will follow the SBKR Translocation Plan. Captured 

SBKR will be translocated by soft release into appropriate receiving habitat as 

detailed in the SBKR Translocation Plan. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-51: Brightline will restore SBKR restricted work 

areas temporarily affected by the Project as described in the Restoration Plan 

(Appendix C of the BO). The restored areas will be monitored in accordance 

with Mitigation Measure BIO-34 and Caltrans requirements. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-52: Not less than 90 calendar days prior to 

construction groundbreaking within any identified SBKR restricted work area, 

Brightline West will provide PSFWO with a SBKR Compensation Summary 

identifying the locations, type, and extent of permanent impacts to SBKR 

restricted work areas along with a calculation of required compensation 

credits to be provided. 

Permanent impacts will be defined as direct, negative effects to functioning 

PBFs within designated critical habitat that result in permanent loss of the 

PBFs. Using the habitat classification provided under Mitigation Measure BIO42 impacts will be calculated, and conservation credits purchased at the 

following ratios: 

• 0.5 credits per acre (0.5:1) for permanent impact to Moderate 

functioning SBKR restricted work areas, and 

• 1.0 credit per acre (1:1) for permanent impact to High functioning 

SBKR restricted work areas. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-53: To offset permanent impacts to suitable SBKR 

habitat, Brightline West will purchase conservation credits. Not less than 60 

calendar days prior to construction groundbreaking within any identified 

SBKR restricted work area, Brightline West will submit proof of payment or 

proof of escrow account payable, either payable to a Service-approved 

conservation bank to establish an endowment sufficient to compensate 

permanent impacts at the ratios given above. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-54: Brightline West will submit a SBKR Final Report 

to PSFWO within 60 calendar days of the completed Project. The SBKR Final 

Report will include results of trapping within SBKR restricted work areas and 

a status report of SBKR relocated, including numbers and status of soft 

release. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-55: Qualified botanists will conduct preconstruction 

surveys within suitable habitat for ESA-listed plant species prior to any ground 

disturbing activities. 

Mitigation Measure BIO-56: Prior to initiating ground-disturbing activities, the 

contractor will place temporary construction fencing around all ESA-listed 

plant species that occur within the TCAs. When ESA-listed plants are 

observed within TCAs, avoidance and minimization measures will be applied 

by Brightline West. Exclusionary areas will be signed for avoidance by 

construction equipment and personnel. Depending on the proximity of the 

ESA-listed plant populations to the construction work area, the plant 

populations will be monitored by Brightline West during and following 

construction to avoid significant effects. 

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Mitigation Measure BIO-57: To the extent possible, the Project will 

completely avoid areas with ESA-listed plant populations by designing viaduct 

piers outside such areas. 

Safety None (adverse effects reduced through implementation of avoidance and 

minimization measures or BMPs; see Table 2). 

Geology, Soils and 

Seismicity 

Mitigation Measure GEO-1: To further evaluate the potential for ground 

fissures, Brightline West will employ a qualified geologist to conduct surface 

reconnaissance and prepare an evaluation during the design phase of the 

Project. This evaluation will include visual observation of the earth units, 

manmade features and geomorphology, and review of geologic maps to 

evaluate the surface conditions relative to Project features. 

Recommendations of the evaluation will be incorporated into the final design 

of the Project and construction plans. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-2: Brightline West will employ a qualified geologist 

to perform a site specific, detailed evaluation, which includes surface 

reconnaissance and subsurface assessment. Recommendations of this 

evaluation will be incorporated into the final design of the Project. This 

evaluation will be performed prior to construction so that, in the event a faultrupture hazard exists, the recommendations of the geologist can be 

implemented in the final design of the Project. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-3: Brightline West will employ a qualified geologist 

to perform a site-specific evaluation of the potential ground shaking hazard. 

The evaluation will be performed during design development and prior to 

construction so that appropriate structural design and mitigation techniques 

can be incorporated into the final design of the Project. Evaluation techniques 

will include drilling of exploratory borings, laboratory testing of soils, computer 

software analysis to develop seismic design parameters for use by the Project 

structural engineer. Recommendations of this evaluation that avoid or 

minimize impacts related to seismic ground shaking will be incorporated into 

the final design of the Project. Structural elements of the rail system will be 

designed to resist or accommodate appropriate site-specific ground motions 

and to conform to the current seismic design standards. Implementation of an 

earthquake early warning system will also be included as part of the Project. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-4: Brightline West will employ a qualified 

geotechnical engineer to perform a site-specific evaluation of the potential 

liquefaction hazard during design development and prior to construction. This 

evaluation will assess the liquefaction and dynamic settlement characteristics 

of the on-site soils and will include drilling of exploratory borings, evaluation of 

groundwater depths, and laboratory testing of soils. Recommendations of this 

evaluation that avoid or minimize impacts related to liquefaction will be 

incorporated into the final design of the Project. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-5: Brightline West will employ a qualified geologist 

to perform site-specific geotechnical evaluations to assess the settlement 

potential of the on-site natural soils and undocumented fill. Surface 

reconnaissance and subsurface evaluation will be performed which 

addresses the potential settlement hazards. The evaluations will include 

drilling of exploratory borings and laboratory testing of soils, in addition to 

surface reconnaissance to evaluate site conditions. Recommendations of the 

geotechnical evaluation will be incorporated into the final design of the 

Project. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-6: Brightline West will employ a qualified geologist 

to perform subsurface evaluation prior to design and construction. Evaluation 

of corrosive soil potential will be accomplished by testing and analysis of soils 

at design depths. Laboratory tests will be conducted on the soils prior to 

construction and the results will be reviewed by a qualified corrosion 

engineer. The qualified corrosion engineer will prepare an improvement plan 

which will include corrosion protection measures suitable to the Project 

elements. The improvement plan will include corrosivity tests to evaluate the 

corrosivity of the subsurface soils. Recommendations of the improvement 

plan will be incorporated into the final design of the Project. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-7: Brightline West will employ a qualified geologist 

to perform, a site-specific subsurface evaluation, including laboratory testing, 

to evaluate the extent of which expansive soils are present along the 

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alignment. Where expansive soil conditions are found and will be detrimental 

to proposed improvements, measures recommended by the geologist will be 

incorporated into the final design of the Project. 

Mitigation Measure GEO-8: To further evaluate the potential for landslides 

and surficial slope failures along the proposed segments, Brightline West will 

employ a qualified geotechnical engineer to perform a surface 

reconnaissance and subsurface evaluation during Project design. Surface 

reconnaissance will include visual observation of the earth units and 

geomorphology and review of geologic maps to evaluate the condition of 

slopes relative to the alignment. Subsurface exploration will be performed as 

recommended by the qualified geotechnical engineer to evaluate the potential 

for landslides and surficial slope failures. If necessary, subsurface evaluation 

will include the excavation and detailed logging of exploratory trenches, test 

pits and/or borings as recommended by the qualified geotechnical engineer. 

Slope stability computer analyses will be performed to address the stability of 

slopes, as recommended by the qualified geotechnical engineer. Measures 

recommended in the evaluation will be incorporated into the final design of 

the Project. 

Environmental Justice None (no impacts identified). 

Table 2 

Other Environmental Commitments (Avoidance, Minimization, and BMPs) 

Resource Commitments 

Transportation During project design, Brightline West will coordinate with SBCTA, Caltrans, 

Rancho Cucamonga, and Hesperia to incorporate intersection improvements 

to lessen or avoid impacts under the 2045 Horizon Year to the extent feasible, 

including optimizing signal timing to reflect changes in traffic flows in station 

areas. 

At the intersection of Milliken Avenue and 7th Street, Brightline West will: 

• Modify the intersection of Milliken Avenue/Azusa Court (located 

about 680 feet north of 7th Street) to permit left turns into Azusa 

Court from northbound Milliken Avenue. This will require 

modification of the existing 14-foot-wide, raised median to include an 

uncontrolled permissive left-turn lane, approximately 150 feet long, 

plus a 90-foot-long transition. A 35 percent diversion of left turns to 

Milliken Avenue/Azusa Court from Milliken Avenue/7th Street is 

projected for balanced traffic operations at both ingress 

intersections. 

• Complete a focused engineering study to assess the intersection 

geometrics and ensure a safe ingress to the proposed station via 

Milliken Avenue/Azusa Court. 

Brightline West will comply with the San Bernardino County CMP policies to 

make fair-share contributions to regional traffic improvements identified in the 

latest Nexus Study (2018). The Project’s fair-share contribution may be offset 

by the value of improvements that the Project will make at locations at which it 

is only partially responsible for the increased delay. 

Brightline West will coordinate with the Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) 

and SBCTA to best serve the needs of transit users at the Hesperia station 

without significantly affecting other transit services. Such coordination will 

include a focus on increasing weekday peak period service at the Hesperia 

station. 

Brightline West will coordinate with SBCTA and Omnitrans to provide 

sufficient bus service to serve Brightline West passengers at the Rancho 

Cucamonga station on Sundays. 

Brightline West will coordinate with Omnitrans to monitor load factors and the 

number of Brightline West passengers on Omnitrans buses serving the 

Rancho Cucamonga station. If necessary, Brightline West will coordinate with 

Omnitrans to provide additional Omnitrans service during the applicable time 

periods. 

July 2023 14 
 

 

 

Brightline West will coordinate with SBCTA and Southern California Regional 

Rail Authority (SCRRA) to provide additional Metrolink service sufficient to 

serve Brightline West passengers on Sundays. Brightline West will also 

coordinate with SCRRA to monitor load factors and the number of Brightline 

West passengers on Metrolink trains serving the Rancho Cucamonga station 

on weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. If necessary, Brightline West will 

coordinate with SCRRA to provide additional Metrolink service during the 

applicable time periods. 

Hesperia Station Parking: Commencing with the opening of the Project and 

continuing throughout the life of the project, Brightline West will monitor 

parking occupancy (occupied spaces as a share of total spaces) at the 

Hesperia station with sufficient detail to identify the hour during which the 

peak occupancy occurs each day and the percentage of parking spaces 

occupied during that hour. Brightline West will develop and implement a 

Parking Demand Management Plan that includes one or more of the following 

elements: 

• Providing discounted fares for Brightline West passengers who 

arrive at the station by bus. 

• Directly subsidizing transit operators to provide reduced transit fares 

for Brightline West passengers. 

• Directly subsidizing bus transit operators to provide additional transit 

service to the station during the peak arrival and departure times of 

Brightline West passengers. 

• Working with the City of Hesperia to institute a neighborhood parking 

protection plan for existing or future neighborhoods near the station, 

including parking policies such as a residential permit parking 

program and/or time limits to encourage turnover. 

• Constructing additional parking facilities or expanding existing 

parking facilities. 

• Providing commuter service between the Victor Valley station and 

Rancho Cucamonga to provide an additional location to serve 

passengers from the area. 

If any element of the parking demand management plan requires 

environmental review, Brightline West will implement other elements sufficient 

to manage the parking demand until the environmental review has been 

completed. 

If, after implementation of the parking demand management plan, additional 

parking needs are still necessary, Brightline West will implement additional 

parking demand management measures from the list above. 

Rancho Cucamonga Station Parking: Commencing with the opening of the 

Project and annually thereafter throughout the life of the project, Brightline 

West will develop and implement a Parking Demand Management Plan that 

includes that following: 

• Monitoring parking occupancy (occupied spaces as a share of total 

spaces) at the Rancho Cucamonga station with sufficient detail to 

identify the hour during which the peak occupancy occurs each day 

and the percentage of parking spaces occupied by vehicles with 

Metrolink and Brightline West parking permits during that hour. 

• Forecasts of parking demand for the next five years. 

• Measures that Brightline West will implement to accommodate 

anticipated parking demand, which may include one or more of the 

following elements: 

o Providing discounted fares for Brightline West passengers 

who arrive at the station by rail or bus transit Directly 

subsidizing SCRRA or bus transit operators to provide 

reduced transit fares for Brightline West passengers. 

o Directly subsidizing bus transit operators to provide 

additional transit service to the station during the peak 

weekday arrival and departure times of Brightline West 

passengers. 

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o Directly subsiding SCRRA or bus transit operators to 

provide additional transit service to the station on Sunday 

afternoons, as the lack of Sunday service to return home 

may discourage passengers from using transit to access 

the station on other days. 

o The Project Applicant will be required to enter into 

voluntary parking agreements with public and private 

property owners to provide off-site parking at existing 

underutilized parking facilities within 5 miles of the station, 

including a free shuttle for passengers who park at an offsite parking facility, and identifying any additional off-site 

parking facilities that are anticipated to be required within 

the next five years based on ridership forecasts. 

o Implementing a differential charge for on-site and off-site 

parking to match the demand for each type of parking to 

the supply. 

o Working with the City of Rancho Cucamonga to institute a 

neighborhood parking protection plan for existing or future 

neighborhoods near the stations, including parking polices 

such as a residential permit parking program and/or time 

limits to encourage turnover 

o Providing additional funding for more frequent service for 

the Omnitrans’ West Valley Connector and/or providing 

funding for a local City circulator using the City’s offsite 

parking structures 

If any element of the parking demand management plan requires 

environmental review, Brightline West will implement other elements sufficient 

to manage the parking demand until the environmental review has been 

completed. 

If, after implementation of the parking demand management plan, additional 

parking needs are still necessary, Brightline West will implement additional 

parking demand management measures from the list above. 

Aesthetics Brightline West will maintain an orderly sequence of construction and properly 

contain, stockpile, and store materials and equipment that may impose on views 

temporarily. 

Brightline West will direct night-time lighting toward the work zone to minimize light 

spillover onto adjacent properties, to reduce glare for freeway motorists, and to 

prevent visible lighting overflow into the natural dark sky of the desert at night. 

Brightline West will screen construction lighting from viewers with fencing, 

barriers, glare shields, and landscaping. 

Brightline West will implement standard dust control measures at construction 

areas, including staging areas for visibility and temporary access routes. 

Brightline West will erect visual screening, such as fences, along construction and 

staging areas as appropriate. Brightline West will replace landscaping and native 

vegetation that is cleared for Temporary Construction Areas (including staging 

and access). Brightline West will regrade disturbed areas within Caltrans right-ofway to soften their contours and replant vegetation as directed by Caltrans within 

six months of the completion of construction or another timeframe agreed to with 

Caltrans. 

Brightline West will design rail features, including bridge pillars/columns, raised 

tracks, trains, catenary structures, crash barriers, retaining walls, abutments, 

fencing, and embankments to blend with or represent the surrounding desert or 

urban environment. Features will be created or stained in muted desert colors. 

Bright colors and highly reflective materials will be avoided, to the extent 

practicable. Brightline West will design Project elements to include visual 

elements that contribute to a sense of place and a memorable experience for 

motorists, pedestrians, and rail passengers. Concrete will be embossed with 

patterns, where appropriate, that are indicative of the surrounding environment 

and that create a visual link between the railway features and their surroundings 

and will be similar in character to recent nearby freeway projects. 

Brightline West will design the Hesperia station and associated elements with 

architecture that complements the surrounding landscape character with flowing 

lines, form, and muted colors. The surface parking lot for the station will be 

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surrounded with native landscaping that softens its appearance and helps it blend 

into its surroundings. The landscaping will include drought-resistant desert plants, 

rock, and stone. Pedestrian elements such as pathways, structures, and signage 

will be developed to pedestrian scale and will use patterns, colors, and symbols 

that represent and complement the desert landscape. Brightline West will design 

lighting to provide an adequate sense of safety for station users, and to minimize 

glare and obstruction of views through glare-screening measures, downward-cast 

lighting, motion sensors, and plantings that will assist with glare reduction, 

consistent with applicable law. 

Brightline West will design the Rancho Cucamonga station and associated 

elements with architecture that complements the surrounding urban landscape 

character with flowing lines, form, and muted colors. The station and it associated 

surface parking lot will be landscaped with ornamental and native vegetation to 

soften the appearance of structures and hard surfaces. The landscaping will 

include drought-tolerant trees, shrubs, and groundcovers, as well as rock and 

stone. Pedestrian elements such as pathways, structures, and signage will be 

developed to pedestrian scale and will incorporate patterns, colors, and symbols 

that represent and complement the surrounding landscape. As at the Hesperia 

station, lighting for the Rancho Cucamonga station will be designed to provide an 

adequate sense of safety for station users, and to minimize glare, obstruction of 

views, and distractions, consistent with applicable law. 

Wetlands and Streams Where full spans over a drainage channel or a wetland cannot be achieved 

because of design constraints, Brightline West will design the Project to 

minimize impacts by placing support structures above the ordinary high-water 

mark or outside of a wetland. 

Aquatic Resource Identification and Restoration: Brightline West will 

comply with the applicable requirements of the Federal Clean Water Act, 

including applicable permit conditions, during the construction phase of the 

Project. Brightline West will ensure that a qualified biologist is on site prior to 

and during construction of the Project to identify and protect aquatic 

resources. The biologist will define the boundaries of the aquatic resources 

and will supervise the placement of exclusion fencing to protect those areas 

during project construction. Additionally, Brightline West will implement a silt 

fence around the construction areas adjacent to aquatic resources to protect 

the resources, including Waters Of The United States, from runoff and spills 

associated with construction activities. Brightline West will monitor activities 

during the entire construction phase. 

If any aquatic resources are affected by construction activities (e.g., clearing, 

ground disturbance), Brightline West will prepare a Restoration Plan to 

restore the affected resources, and will submit the plan to the U.S. Army 

Corps of Engineers and USFWS for approval. Brightline West will implement 

the Plan after construction is complete. 

Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control: Brightline West will develop a 

temporary erosion and sediment control plan for construction of the railway, 

stations, and maintenance facilities and will be employed to control erosion 

from disturbed areas. Brightline West will identify standard erosion control 

BMPs, such as management, structural, and vegetative controls in the plan 

and will implement those BMPs for all construction activities that expose soil. 

These BMPs will be selected to achieve maximum sediment removal using 

the best available science and technology. Brightline West will inspect and 

maintain BMPs throughout construction. BMPs for rail installation include, but 

are not limited to: 

• Installation of erosion control material consisting of silt fences along 

the outside limits of construction. 

• Implementing wind erosion control practices on all stockpiled 

materials. 

• Stripping and transporting topsoil to stockpile for use in the 

restoration of temporary ground disturbances. 

• Preservation of existing vegetation as much as practicable. 

• Establishment of native grass or other native vegetative cover on 

the construction site as soon as possible after disturbance. Nonnative seeds or vegetation will not be used. 

17 July 2023 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Controlled erosion in disturbed areas by grading so that direct 

routes for conveying runoff to drainage channels are eliminated. 

• Compliance with all applicable conditions and mitigation 

requirements that result from the permits, certifications, and 

agreements. 

Brightline West will coordinate with USACE to obtain a jurisdictional 

determination for aquatic resources. If applicable, Brightline West will obtain 

any required permits and implement any permit conditions. 

Floodplains Brightline West will implement BMPs prior to construction to minimize the 

temporary effects on floodplains, and Brightline West will not store 

construction equipment and materials within the floodplain. Brightline West 

will return any temporary effects on floodplains to preconstruction conditions. 

Safety Brightline West will implement construction safety requirements during 

construction, per regulatory requirements including Cal OSHA Construction 

Safety Orders and CPUC General Order No. 176. 

Brightline West will develop and implement the Project SSP as required under 

49 CFR 270, and Tier III passenger equipment safety standards required 

under 49 CFR Parts 229, 231, 236, and 238. 

Brightline West will ensure Project conformity to current safety standards, 

which include NFPA Standard 130. Brightline West will also ensure that the 

Project is regularly maintained to prevent loose or live electrical wires that 

could potentially spark wildfires. 

July 2023 18