Client
City of Pleasant Hill
Expertise
- CEQA/NEPA Compliance
- Cultural Resources Management
- Biological Resources Management
- Entitlements, Permitting & Post-Entitlement Management
Markets
Pleasant Hill Library, Ballfields, and Housing EIR
FCS prepared a project-level Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and comprehensive technical studies for three coordinated development efforts in the City of Pleasant Hill. The combined projects include construction of a new library and park, enhancements to the Grayson Creek corridor, and development of 34 single-family homes and 7 accessory dwelling units. FCS also secured key regulatory approvals, including a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 permit, a California Department of Fish and Wildlife Section 1602 agreement, and a Regional Water Quality Control Board Section 401 certification. Early environmental and permitting strategy work established a clear, defensible entitlement pathway for the projects.
The City’s Challenge
The City of Pleasant Hill, in partnership with Contra Costa County and a private developer, sought to modernize aging public facilities, expand housing supply, and address longstanding flooding issues. The existing County library was structurally vulnerable, contained asbestos and lead-based paint, and required demolition. The building was also considered historic due to its Mid-Century Modern, International Style architecture, requiring careful treatment under CEQA. The City needed additional residential units to meet RHNA obligations, and the Grayson Creek corridor experienced stormwater flooding that required updated hydrologic analysis and FEMA map revisions. Recreational facilities, including ballfields, were also in need of enhancement.
Our Solution
FCS prepared a project-level EIR evaluating the full buildout of the Projects, including biological resources, cultural and historic resources, hydrology, stormwater, and other CEQA-required topics. Technical studies included detailed creek corridor assessments to inform riparian enhancement and minimize impacts on jurisdictional waters. To address demolition of the historic library, FCS prepared a Historic American Building Survey (HABS)-level documentation package and identified interpretive measures to honor the building’s architectural significance.
FCS also prepared and secured all required environmental permits, coordinating closely with federal, state, and regional agencies while working with the City to identify riparian plantings that would enhance habitat while meeting regulatory expectations. To avoid scheduling delays, FCS proactively communicated with resource agencies to ensure they understood the project’s critical path and the interdependence of civic, residential, and creek improvements.
Results and Deliverables
FCS completed the final EIR, including responses to public and agency comments and secured all required environmental permits. The thorough analysis and permitting strategy provided the City with a clear, defensible foundation for project approval and implementation. With environmental review and permitting complete, construction proceeded and the library opened in July 2022, along with the first housing units. Together, the projects delivered a modern library, enhanced recreational amenities, new housing opportunities, and long-term improvements to the Grayson Creek corridor.
How we can help
In an ever-changing regulatory and sustainability environment, FCS understands the challenges you face. Our highly qualified environmental specialists, energy management consultants, and technical experts deliver integrated, industry-specific solutions that move your project forward—so that you can focus on what matters.