Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
PLANNING DIVISION
Chuck Kinney, Deputy Director Planning
Web Site: http://www.countyofkings.com/departments/community-development-agency
February 5, 2016
Interested Agencies (see next page)
Sandy Roper, Project Planner [ (559) 852-2685 or M Sandy.Roper@co.kings.ca.us]
Development Code Text Change No. 668.13/Conditional Use Permit No. 16-01 (Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Inc.)
The Kings County Community Development Agency has received an application for a Development Code Text Change and a
Conditional Use Permit that proposes to establish a Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center (HRDC) located on the east side of
Interstate 5, approximately 350 feet east of the eastern edge of the right-of-way for Interstate 5, and extending north from the
Kings/Kern County boundary approximately five (5) miles. The northern edge of the project is also located approximately 7.63 miles
southeast of the Utica Avenue/Interstate 5 interchange. A copy of the application package is attached for your information. NOTICE
TO NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES IN RECEIPT OF THIS NOTICE: Pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1, you
have a right to request consultation with Community Development Agency staff regarding the proposed project. Requests for
consultation should be made in writing within 30 days of receipt of this notice. In the written request for consultation, please specify
any preferences regarding the timing, manner, mode, and/or location of consultation.
Please review this project and provide any comments and/or recommendations that you feel are appropriate, including any scientific or
factual information that would be useful in our evaluation. Our office appreciates your time and assistance with this project review.
Please direct all correspondence to the Project Planner and the Case Number referenced above for this project. All comments from
Regulatory Agencies must be received by February 22, 2016, in order to be considered during the review process. The
following information checked below is also applicable for your consideration regarding this project:
X
(a)
Please indicate in your response whether this department should prepare a Negative Declaration or Environmental
Impact Report (EIR). In the event that an EIR is prepared, I will be in further contact with you as to the scope and
content of the environmental information pertinent to your agencys statutory responsibilities.
Please note that Public Resources Code Section 21080.(c) requires substantial evidence in the record to show
a significant effect on the environment. Any recommendation for preparation of an EIR requires submittal of
such evidence with your comments. If there is no such evidence, a Negative Declaration may be prepared.
Recommendations or suggestions for changes or mitigation measures requested by agencies having
jurisdiction by law over natural resources affected by the project must be accompanied by a proposed
reporting or monitoring program for those changes or measures in accordance with Public Resources Code
Section 21081.6.
_____ (b)
The Kings County Community Development Agency has determined that this project is Categorically Exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section
of the Guidelines for Environmental Quality Act (CEQA
Guidelines) and therefore, the preparation of an environmental document is not necessary. However, if your
organization has substantial evidence that would indicate to the contrary, please explain.
_____ (c)
The Kings County Community Development Agency has determined that this project is a Ministerial project, and is
exempt from an environmental review pursuant to Section 15268 of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA), implemented through Kings County Board of Supervisors Resolution No. 16-001, adopted January 5, 2016.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
KINGS COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER; 1400 W. LACEY BLVD., ENGINEERING BUILDING # 6; HANFORD, CA 93230
(559) 852-2670
(d)
Notice of a public hearing for this project will be mailed at least ten (10) days prior to the hearing. If your agency
will be significantly affected by this project with respect to your ability to provide essential facilities and/or services,
and your wish to receive notice of the public hearing, please state this in your response.
CASE NO. Development Code Text Change No. 668.13/Conditional Use Permit No. 16-01 (Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Inc.)
CONSULTING AGENCY LIST
Kings County Agencies
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X
X
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Ag Commissioner (ERC)
Assessor
Association of Governments (KCAG)
Building Division of the Kings County Community
Development Agency
X Environmental Health (ERC)
X Fire Department
___ Human Services
X Public Works (ERC)
___ Sheriffs Department
___ Animal Control
X Code Compliance
X Kings Area Rural Transit
Local Agencies
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State Agencies
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H:\PLANNING\LAND DEVELOPMENT SECTION\ZONING ADMIN\CUP\2010 TO 2019\2016\CUP 16-01 HYPERLOOP\PROJECT REVIEW CONSULTATION NOTICE\CUP 16-01 PROJECT REVIEW CONSULTATION NOTICE.DOC
Attachment 1
Project Description
Prepared by:
Project Overview:
The Hyperloop transportation system is an entirely new mode of transportation based on early
theoretical and experimental work in reduced pressure transport by Dr. Robert Goddard in the
early 20th century. Today, with advanced materials science, computer-assisted design and
controls, and an ever-increasing need to transport people safely and efficiently over greater
distances, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies Inc. (HTT) is preparing to construct the
Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center (HRDC) to be located in Kings County, CA.
To accomplish this extraordinary demonstration of engineering, physics, materials science and
transportation planning, HTT has assembled a team of over 400 engineers, scientists, computer
modelers, planners and construction experts to engineer, design and construct a 4.8-mile long
full scale prototype to demonstrate technical feasibility and serve as a proof of concept to ready
the design for commercial deployment.
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full-scale research, prototype development and evaluation facility; and to implement the
commercial deployment of Hyperloop to address the ever-increasing intercity transportation
needs of our society in a safe, affordable, and environmentally sustainable manner.
Since its founding, HTT has grown quickly to include over 400 highly experienced engineers,
architects, scientists, computer modelers, transportation planners and construction
professionals working collaboratively to plan, design and construct this entirely new mode of
transportation. Led by Dirk Ahlborn, CEO and co-founder of HTT, the firm is headquartered in
Playa Vista, CA.
Project Location
Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) proposes to design and construct a full-scale
Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center (HRDC) in Kings County, CA. The Hyperloop
will be located southeast of Kettleman City, CA parallel to the east right-of-way along I-5 on an
easement on private lands as shown on Figure 2 Regional Context Map.
This premier Hyperloop project will consist of an approximately 4.8-mile elevated dual-tube
transport system supported by pylons with terminal stations at each end. A Preliminary Site Plan
is shown on Figure 3. The vertical clearance of Hyperloop over intersecting roadways will be
consistent with Caltrans clearance requirements, or approximately 20 feet above the
intersecting roadways so as to preclude any spatial conflicts.
Project Objectives and Phasing:
The project objective is to plan, design, construct, test and evaluate the HTT Hyperloop
system as an innovative transport technology suitable for deployment as a public transportation
system providing a safe, reliable and affordable transportation alternative between selected
termini. The project will be developed in four phases as further described below:
Phase 1:
The initial phase of the HTT system includes research, prototype development and design of
systems and subsystems, program and project management, development of project schedules
and cost estimates, coordination with Kings County and landowner GROW Holdings, LLC,
evaluation and preparation of required approvals from local governmental units, and project
funding. Coordination with Kings County will be ongoing throughout this phase including a
request for a Development Code Text Amendment, Conditional Use Permit application and
review, and building permit applications.
Phase 2:
The second phase of the HTT development includes construction of the Hyperloop system and
related ancillary facilities including stations at each termini, a Visitor Center, an Operations and
Maintenance (O&M) Center, an Education and Outreach Center, on-site utility development,
electrical interconnections with PG&E for power supply and net metering arrangements for the
solar energy generation system, site access, and parking facilities.
Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Inc.
Kings County, CA
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Phase 3:
The third phase of the HTT development includes system and subsystem testing, evaluation,
and optimization. Initial unmanned and on-board testing by project design and construction
teams will continue without access to the public until the testing and certification phase is
complete. The Hyperloop Visitor Center, and the Education and Outreach Center will be open
to the public however the Hyperloop system will not be accessible to the public until final
certification and commissioning.
Phase 4:
The fourth phase of the HTT development includes commercial revenue service of the
Hyperloop system, open to the public and visitors. The Hyperloop will be available for
passenger transport between stations. Multimodal facilities are programmed into the facility
station plans that would integrate future transit system connectivity as may be required by future
area development.
Purpose and Need:
The purpose of the Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center (HRDC) project is to
construct a full scale proof-of-concept facility to demonstrate technical features of the innovative
interurban transportation approach; to confirm numerous design and engineering assumptions;
to conduct extensive testing of project systems and subsystems; to modify design approaches
where indicated; to achieve certification and insurance ratings as a public transportation system
suitable for commercial deployment; to demonstrate the operational function of the system to
the general public; to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to the environment; and to create new
jobs and economic opportunity through environmental leadership.
Commercial Hyperloop systems could eventually provide intercity passenger and cargo
transport linking regional economic centers; provide travel options for the growing population
and accessibility to population centers; as well as improve convenience and time of travel at an
affordable cost.
The identified need for expanded transportation options is based on the following elements:
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HTT has also prepared a Conditional Use Permit application for review and consideration by
Kings County. HTT will cooperate with Kings County during the CUP application process and
during Kings Countys review of the available data and preparation of the Initial Study. The
Initial Study will include the Environmental Checklist to address criteria set forth in CEQA
Guidelines. HTT will work closely with Kings County and offer assistance as may be required to
evaluate the environmental factors and whether they would be potentially affected by this
project. Following the evaluation of the environmental factors and the potential effects and
benefits of the Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center, Kings County, as Lead Agency,
will prepare its findings.
The Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center will serve as a working prototype,
research, development and demonstration facility as the basis for developing and refining an
ultra high-speed transportation system. Upon substantial completion of construction, the system
will undergo extensive testing, optimization, and verification of project systems and subsystems.
Safety and security protocols will be undertaken by the project design and construction teams
throughout the project development and testing. Testing programs will be conducted with
unmanned capsules until conformance with applicable construction and safety requirements
have been satisfied.
Initial unmanned and on-board testing by project design and construction teams will continue
without access to the public until the testing and certification phase is complete. Longer term, it
is anticipated that the HRDC will be operated and maintained to provide for both continuing
research, development and demonstration and for further optimization of project systems and
subsystems.
The initial HRDC development in Kings County will have independent utility, meaning that the
initial project will be technically and financially operable without the need for additional operating
segments, and without reliance on future residential or commercial development in the area.
The Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center is envisioned to host numerous functions
designed to create a permanent, long-term presence in Kings County. In addition to the
development of the core Hyperloop transport system between the two HRDC stations, the
HRDC will provide for:
An Education and Outreach Center providing collaboration with colleges and universities
in developing and evaluating innovative technical solutions and related public education
and outreach necessary to effect change in our transportation solutions.
An Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Center to serve both as the central O&M facility
for the system and as the centralized training facility for Hyperloop operators from
Hyperloop facilities around the world.
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Programmed multimodal transportation facilities that can be integrated with future area
transit systems as may be developed to encourage and promote public transportation
throughout the community.
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Energy:
The Hyperloop system includes photovoltaic (PV) solar panels installed on top of the tube
structure for the entire length of the project. The solar arrays are sufficient to self-power the
Hyperloop system, with energy stored in rechargeable batteries or as compressed air. Battery
arrays are designed sufficient to buffer energy for Hyperloop capsules specific uses. Solar
energy will power vacuum pumps to maintain system reduced pressure in the tubes to allow for
leakage and losses, and will also be sufficient to provide power to Hyperloop stations.
Local electrical distribution does not currently exist at the site. As part of the HRDC
development, new distribution level service will be provided at each station location, with a
distribution connection between stations. Interconnection with the electric utility will occur at
each station to provide a redundant electrical interconnection and to provide for redundant net
energy metering (NEM) provisions for solar-powered electric utility customers.
Lighting:
HTT is proposing that all of the HRDC facilities are built to Dark Skies compliance, using
downcast lighting with the objective of not increasing or contributing to nighttime light pollution.
Pylon structure lighting, if required, will be in conformance with FAA obstruction and marking
requirements to promote aviation safety.
Security:
HTT plans to use a sophisticated security system that is currently in design. The project site will
be fenced during construction however It is not anticipated that permanent site fencing will be
required following substantial completion of the project.
The pylon design will incorporate a predictive seismic security system that alerts HTT
operations staff if any portion of the HRDC area experiences seismic activity. The Operations
and Maintenance Plan will further discuss circumstances under which system operations will be
interrupted for safety and security measures.
Signage:
HTT plans to host some signage on the tubes and pylons to inform and educate the public as to
the purpose of the structures and the sponsor of the project. See Figure 5 and Figure 6.
Signage proposals will be submitted to Kings County during the planning and design phase for
conformance with local requirements. Warning signs as appropriate will be used as required.
Source: HTT
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Source: HTT
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance and inspection will be an integral part of the overall Hyperloop operations
plan, however it is still too early in the planning and design process to fully describe
maintenance requirements and schedules. An Operations and Maintenance Plan is being
prepared as part of the planning and design process and will be provided to Kings County.
Fire Suppression and Safety: HTT will incorporate a sophisticated fire detection and
suppression system in the HRDC facilities and station plan. The HRDC fire detection and
suppression system will be developed as part of the Operations and Maintenance Plan and will
be provided to local fire officials for their review and comment as part of the design process.
Stormwater Management: HTT will employ best management practices (BMP) for stormwater
management during construction and operations. Stormwater quality features during
construction include the use of silt fences and straw waddles around all areas of construction
and disturbance. HTT will inspect these stormwater management features on a routine basis
and repair any areas that require maintenance. HTT will grade construction areas during the
post construction period according to the upcoming HTT Draft Grading Plan after it has been
reviewed and approved by Kings County.
Wastewater Disposal
On-site disposal of domestic wastewater would be accomplished through septic systems with
one system installed near each station. A future connection to a community or municipal
wastewater treatment facility would be evaluated in concert with planned area development
progress as it may occur.
Water Supply Source and Usage:
HTT proposes to install two water wells, one near each station location. The depth and size of
the well casing would be determined during facility design. It is anticipated that pre-treatment of
potable water will be required with coordination provided between HTT and Kings County and
consistent with current water quality standards.
During the construction phase HTT will be using light to moderate amounts of water to mix
concrete on-site, for dust suppression, and for other construction purposes. Management of
fugitive dust emissions will be a high priority during construction. During operations HTT
anticipates moderate water usage at station location areas for drinking, restrooms, cleaning, etc.
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Landscaping:
Landscaping around the Hyperloop Research and Demonstration Center will look as natural as
possible. No manmade landscaping features outside of drainage and stormwater features are
planned. HTT will restore and replant disturbed areas with native grasses or other native plants.
A landscaping plan will be developed as part of the project development plan.
Hours of Operation:
Upon completion of construction, normal operating hours of the Hyperloop Research and
Demonstration Center would typically be 8:00am - 5:00pm Monday through Friday. Tours,
lectures, and visitor activities will be confined to normal operating hours initially. Weekend
activities may occur based on third party interest. Construction schedules and construction
hours of activity will be provided to Kings County prior to initiation of construction.
Transport services on Hyperloop between stations would be available from 6:00am-11:00pm
every day. Hyperloop training centers for employees and vendors may be open 24 hours/day, 7
days/week but would have limited access to the public.
Number of Employees: It is estimated that approximately 25 employees will work on-site
during normal operations. A facility staffing plan will be developed as part of the design process.
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Station Overview:
HTT designers are currently creating station designs. Each HTT station will be designed as
energy efficient multimodal stations and will accommodate parking, pedestrian flows, and future
local transit connections as may be required. Station features such as ticketing, cross-ticketing
with other potential future venues, luggage handling, food service, restrooms, lounge, office and
meeting space, educational considerations, and security provisions are currently being
evaluated.
Project Schedule:
A preliminary project schedule and sequencing plan is currently under development. The
project schedule includes the following milestones:
Initial corridor clearing and grubbing will provide for a temporary service and access road
consisting of a prepared subgrade with crushed rock surfacing. After the Hyperloop Research
and Demonstration Center is constructed, HTT will determine if the service road can be
removed completely, or possibly deconstructed to a smaller access road.
HTT plans to implement low-impact construction techniques and construction management best
practices during the HRDC construction to minimize construction traffic, noise and impacts on
the surrounding community while preserving as much of the natural environment as possible.
Temporary Construction Facilities:
Temporary construction facilities including construction site trailers, equipment and material
laydown and staging, and construction personnel facilities and parking may be located on
adjacent lands with permission from the landowner. A complete description of temporary
construction facilities will be provided to local authorities as part of the building permit
application process.
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Attachment 2
Prepared by:
KEY
P Permitted uses - no permit required.
S
Site Plan Review required.
C Conditional Use Permit required.
TUP A temporary land use which requires an
over-the-counter permit.
- Not permitted
ZONING DISTRICT
Miscellaneous Uses
For a definition of the use see Article 25
[1] Research, development and
demonstration facilities for the purpose of
transportation research, prototype
development, demonstration of transport
technologies and associated support
facilities.
AX
PERMIT REQUIRED
-
On non-Williamson Act
contracted land only.
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Attachment 3
Supplemental Information
Prepared by:
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Landowner
048-300-019
048-300-021
048-280-028
048-300-006
048-370-017
048-370-015
048-370-018
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