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5.13 VISUAL RESOURCES require mitigation beyond that proposed as a part of the initial project design. Under CEQA, any required mitigation must be specific to an identified impact, and must be feasible. 5.13.2.2 Impact Evaluation Criteria The following criteria from the CEQA Guidelines were considered in determining whether a visual impact would be significant. The CEQA Guidelines define a"significant effect" on the environment to mean a "substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse change in any of the physical conditions within the area affected by the project including... objects of historic or aesthetic significance" (CCR tit. 14, §15382). Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines,under Aesthetics,lists the following four questions to be addressed regarding whether the potential impacts of a project are significant: 1. Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? 2. Would the project substantially damage scenic resources, including,but not limited to, trees,rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a State Scenic Highway? 3. Would the project substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? 4. Would the project create a new source of substantial light or glare that would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? 5.13.2.3 Project Appearance 5.13.2.3.1 Project Structures and Dimensions The proposed project facilities are described in detail in Chapter 2.0,Project Description. Figure 2.1-1 shows the general arrangement and layout of the proposed project features on the site,and Figure 2.1-2 provides typical elevation views. Table 5.13-2 summarizes the dimensions,finishes,and materials of the generating facility's major features. The exteriors of all major project equipment will be matched to the existing STIG plant finish and is intended to optimize its visual integration with the surrounding environment. The project will be surrounded by a chain-link security fence, and access will be provided by a gated driveway on the southeastern corner of the site. The height of the LEC exhaust stack will be 150 feet. The City of Lodi zoning designation for the LEC site is "Public and Community Facilities." There are no height restrictions under this zoning designation. 5.13.2.3.2 Transmission Line The LEC will tie in to an existing 230-kV switchyard west of the project site,which runs adjacent to the STIG plant. No new outgoing transmission lines will be required other than the short tie line from the new plant to the existing switchyard. SAC/371322/082350001(LEC_5.13_VISUAL.DOC) 5.13-21