Measure RR Program Traction Power System Improvements Project
Summary
SCH Number
2020060467
Public Agency
Bay Area Rapid Transit District
(BART)
Document Title
Measure RR Program Traction Power System Improvements Project
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
6/22/2020
Document Description
The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) is an electricity powered commuter transit line. Electrification is provided by "traction power" substations located along the transit line right-of- way. BART proposes improvements to one of its existing traction power substations, North Berkeley Traction Power Substation, referred herein as "RNB". RNB is located at the southeast quadrant of the Acton Street and Virginia Street intersection in the City of Berkeley, CA 94702. The project will require facility upgrades, procurement, and installation of replacement equipment for the existing traction power substation which currently supplies power for BART rail operations. Please see Attachment A for additional information.
Contact Information
Name
Steve Sims
Agency Name
San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Name
Agency Name
Steve Sims
Contact Types
Project Applicant
Location
Cities
Berkeley
Counties
Alameda
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Statutory Exemption
Type, Section or Code
15275(a)
Reasons for Exemption
The proposed replacement of the traction power substation equipment qualifies for a statutory exemption from CEQA, as the project fits into the context of the exemption language and no other significant effects on the environment will result due to unusual circumstances. Statutory exemptions from CEQA are granted by legislature. A statutory exemption from CEQA is provided under Section 21080(b)(10) of the California Public Resources Code (also found in the CEQA Guidelines Article 18 Section I 5275(a)). This statutory exemption applies to mass transit projects that involve the institution or increase of passenger or commuter service on rail lines already in use. This project proposes removing aging train control equipment and upgrading to a new system, which will support increased capacity and higher service frequencies. Please see Attachment A for additional information.