City Council
Ruben Hill, Mayor
Pedro Rios, Mayor Pro Tem
Sam Ramirez
Grace Vallejo
Leonard Velasco
Staff
Abdel Salem,
City Manager
Lawrence Tomasello, Community
Development Director
John Wankum,
City Engineer
Phillip Newhouse,
Community Services Director
Land Use
Circulation
Open Space & Conservation
Housing
Community Design
Noise
Public Services
Safety
Economic Development
Parks
City of Delano
General Plan
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
City Council
Ruben Hill, Mayor
Pedro Rios, Mayor Pro Tem
Sam Ramirez
Grace Vallejo
Leonard Velasco
Staff
Abdel Salem, City Manager
Lawrence Tomasello, Community Development Director
John Wankum, City Engineer
Phillip Newhouse, Community Services Director
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION ONE
Introduction
1.1 Overview of the Update Process.......................................................................... 1- 1
1.2 Basis for the General Plan.................................................................................... 1- 2
1.3 Issues of Importance ............................................................................................ 1- 3
1.4 Organization of this Document............................................................................ 1- 4
SECTION TWO
Land Use Element
2.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 2- 1
2.2 Purpose................................................................................................................. 2- 1
2.3 Authorization ....................................................................................................... 2- 3
2.4 Existing Land Use................................................................................................ 2- 4
2.5 Population ............................................................................................................ 2- 5
2.6 Social and Economic Factors............................................................................... 2- 6
2.7 Other Plans and Policies ...................................................................................... 2- 8
2.8 General Plan, Zoning Consistency and Plan Administration Policies................. 2- 9
2.9 Residential Land Use Policies ........................................................................... 2- 11
2.10 Commercial Land Use Policies.......................................................................... 2- 16
2.11 Industrial Land Use Policies .............................................................................. 2- 19
2.12 Public and Institutional Land Use Policies ........................................................ 2- 20
SECTION THREE
Circulation Element
3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 3- 1
3.2 Purpose................................................................................................................. 3- 1
3.3 Authorization ....................................................................................................... 3- 2
3.4 Existing Transportation and Circulation.............................................................. 3- 2
3.5 Circulation Policies............................................................................................ 3- 35
SECTION FOUR
Open Space, Conservation and Recreation Element
4.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 4- 1
4.2 Authorization ....................................................................................................... 4- 1
4.3 Earth..................................................................................................................... 4- 2
4.4 Climate and Air Quality....................................................................................... 4- 6
4.5 Hydrologic Conditions......................................................................................... 4- 9
4.6 Biological Resources ......................................................................................... 4- 11
4.7 Cultural Resources............................................................................................. 4- 13
4.8 Light and Glare .................................................................................................. 4- 13
4.9 Public Safety ...................................................................................................... 4- 16
4.10 Agriculture ......................................................................................................... 4- 17
4.11 Natural Resources .............................................................................................. 4- 18
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update ii
SECTION FIVE
Housing Element
5.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 5- 1
5.2 Progress Report.................................................................................................... 5- 5
5.3 Needs Assessment.............................................................................................. 5- 14
5.4 Housing Resources and Constraints................................................................... 5- 30
5.5 Goals, Quantified Objectives, Policies and Programs ....................................... 5- 46
SECTION SIX
Community Design Element
6.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 6- 1
6.2 Purpose................................................................................................................. 6- 1
6.3 Authorization ....................................................................................................... 6- 2
6.4 Assessment of Existing Urban Form and Function ............................................. 6- 2
6.5 Gateways/ Streetscape Design Policies ................................................................ 6- 3
6.6 Residential Development Policies ....................................................................... 6- 3
6.7 Commercial and Industrial Development Policies .............................................. 6- 5
SECTION SEVEN
Noise Element
7.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 7- 1
7.2 Noise Sources....................................................................................................... 7- 1
7.3 Noise Element Policies ........................................................................................ 7- 3
7.4 Definitions............................................................................................................ 7- 7
7.5 City of Delano Noise Standards........................................................................... 7- 8
SECTION EIGHT
Public Services and Facilities Element
8.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 8- 1
8.2 Authorization ....................................................................................................... 8- 1
8.3 Public Services and Utilities ................................................................................ 8- 2
8.4 Public Facility Improvement Policies.................................................................. 8- 8
8.5 Health Care Facilities Policies ........................................................................... 8- 11
8.6 Local Government Facilities and Services Policies........................................... 8- 11
SECTION NINE
Safety Element
9.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 9- 1
9.2 Framework ........................................................................................................... 9- 2
9.3 Types of Safety Hazards ...................................................................................... 9- 2
9.4 Risk Acceptance................................................................................................... 9- 5
9.5 Existing Conditions.............................................................................................. 9- 6
9.6 Geologic Activities .............................................................................................. 9- 7
9.7 Fire Related Activities ......................................................................................... 9- 8
9.8 Safety Hazard Issues ............................................................................................ 9- 9
9.9 Safety Hazard Element Goals, Objectives, and Policies.................................... 9- 10
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update iii
SECTION TEN
Economic Development Element
10.1 Introduction........................................................................................................ 10- 1
10.2 Population .......................................................................................................... 10- 1
10.3 Social and Economic Factors............................................................................. 10- 2
10.4 Economic Diversification .................................................................................. 10- 3
10.5 Infrastructure Policies ........................................................................................ 10- 4
10.6 Economic Development Coordination............................................................... 10- 4
10.7 Strategic Economic Development Plan Polices................................................. 10- 5
SECTION ELEVEN
Parks and Recreation Element
11.1 Introduction........................................................................................................ 11- 1
11.2 Authorization ..................................................................................................... 11- 1
11.3 Objectives and Policies ...................................................................................... 11- 2
FIGURES
2.1 Zoning.................................................................................................................. 2- 3
2.2 Vacant and Agricultural Land.............................................................................. 2- 4
2.3 General Plan Land Use ...................................................................................... 2- 10
2.4 North Delano Planned Land Use ....................................................................... 2- 13
3.1 Circulation Plan ................................................................................................... 3- 8
3.2 Traffic Volumes ................................................................................................. 3- 11
3.3 Delano Public Transit Boundaries ..................................................................... 3- 20
3.4 Tulare County Transit Service Area .................................................................. 3- 22
3.5 Airport Zones..................................................................................................... 3- 24
3.6 Downtown Off- Street Parking ........................................................................... 3- 28
4.1 Soil Types ............................................................................................................ 4- 5
4.2 FEMA Flood Map for Delano............................................................................ 4- 10
TABLES
2.1 Delano Population................................................................................................ 2- 1
2.2 Airport Land Use Compatibility Criteria........................................................... 2- 22
3.1 Roadway Functional Classifications.................................................................... 3- 3
3.2 Capacity of Functionally Classified System........................................................ 3- 9
3.3 Existing Circulation System .............................................................................. 3- 13
4.1 General Soils Characteristics ............................................................................... 4- 4
4.2 Plant Species ...................................................................................................... 4- 13
5.3A City of Delano Population, 1990- 2000 .............................................................. 5- 15
5.3B City of Delano Projected Population, 2000- 2020 .............................................. 5- 16
5.3C City of Delano Age Distribution, 2000.............................................................. 5- 17
5.3D City of Delano Ethnicity, 1980, 1990, 2000 ...................................................... 5- 18
5.3E Industrial Employment in the Bakersfield SMSA ............................................. 5- 19
5.3F Comparison of Area 3 and Kern County Household Income ............................ 5- 20
5.3G Persons with Work Disabilities or Mobility Limitations................................... 5- 21
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update iv
5.3H Household Size by Housing Tenure, 2000 ........................................................ 5- 22
5.3I Composition of the Housing Stock, 2000 .......................................................... 5- 25
5.3J Kern County Median Income and Income Limits by Household Size .............. 5- 26
5.3K Household Income Groupings ........................................................................... 5- 26
5.3L Affordable Monthly Housing Payment by Household Size .............................. 5- 27
5.3M Housing Affordability in Kern County for a Family of Four ............................ 5- 27
5.3N Housing Needs by Income Category ................................................................. 5- 28
5.3O Remaining New Housing Construction Need as of 3/ 1/ 2002............................ 5- 29
5.4A Development Potential of Lands that are Currently Zones Residential............. 5- 31
5.4B Vacant Land for Potential Zone Changes .......................................................... 5- 31
5.4C Distribution of Housing Affordability by Residential Density.......................... 5- 32
5.4D Distribution of Available Development Capacity, 2000 General Plan.............. 5- 33
5.4E Zoning District Development Standards, Residential Zones............................. 5- 36
5.4F Zoning District Development Standards, Commercial Zones ........................... 5- 36
5.4G Residential Off- Street Parking Standards .......................................................... 5- 37
5.4H Development Impact Fee Applicability for Residential Projects ...................... 5- 41
5.4I Residential Development Impact Fees ( as of 2002) .......................................... 5- 41
5.4J Comparison of Planning Fees ........................................................................... 5- 42
5.4K Anticipated Redevelopment Funds/ Capital Improvements, 2002- 2007............ 5- 44
5.4L Distribution per Financing Component ............................................................. 5- 45
5.5A Quantified Objectives, 2000- 2007..................................................................... 5- 47
7.1 California Office of Noise Control Land Use Compatibility Matrix for
Community Noise Exposure................................................................................ 7- 5
7.2 Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure- Transportation Noise Sources................ 7- 8
7.3 Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure- Stationary Noise Sources ....................... 7- 9
8.1 Delano Public School System: School Enrollments and Design Capacity......... 8- 3
8.2 Existing City of Delano Water Wells .................................................................. 8- 6
8.3 Future Water Demand for City of Delano ........................................................... 8- 6
8.4 Projected Wastewater Treatment Plan Demands................................................. 8- 7
11.1 Parks and Community Standards and 2025 Demands ....................................... 11- 3
APPENDICES
Appendix A Community Questionnaire Summary
Appendix B Delano General Plan Update Planning Principles
Appendix C Analysis of Economic Base
Appendix D Under Separate Cover
1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1 OVERVIEW OF THE UPDATE PROCESS
The General Plan is a long- term, comprehensive framework to guide physical, social and economic
development within a community’s planning area. Delano’s General Plan is a long- range guide for
attaining the City’s goals within its ultimate service area and accommodating its population growth
to the year 2020. A comprehensive document, it coordinates all components of the City’s physical
development and sets goals, objectives, policies and standards which guide future growth within the
City’s planning area.
In February 1997, the City Council of the City of Delano authorized an update to the City’s General
Plan and associated elements including Land Use, Circulation, Open Space and Conservation,
Noise, Community Design, and Public Services and Facilities. The remaining mandatory elements,
Housing and Safety, were assumed by the City to be sufficiently current and were incorporated into
the General Plan Update with minor reformatting only at that time.
The City Council appointed a General Plan Steering Committee to work with staff and a General
Plan Consultant. The Committee consisted of representatives from the City Staff, the Planning
Commission, Redevelopment Agency, City Council, Delano Joint High School District, Delano
Union School District, Delano Chamber of Commerce and the development community. The
Steering Committee provided crucial input and review to all aspects of the General Plan over a
twelve- month period and met to review interim work products and draft policies.
In addition, five public workshops were held to discuss the General Plan Update and to seek public
input into the planning process. The workshops were facilitated by the General Plan Consultant
Team who asked members of the public a series of questions relating to the quality of life in Delano;
what things were important to maintain; and what would they change in Delano if money were no
object. Participants in the workshop were also asked to design a plan for the future of Delano. The
consultant team, using the results of the workshops, formulated a list of planning principles relating
to the future of Delano. The planning principles were distributed to all workshop participants and
invited all participants to another workshop to review the planning principles and determine if the
principles accurately reflected the public’s ideas for the future of Delano. A copy of the summary of
the community questionnaires is contained in Appendix A along with a summary document which
indicates land use implications. These planning principles were integrated into the various goals,
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
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City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
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policies and objectives in the General Plan. Based on these principles, the intent of the General Plan
is to:
1. Promote economic growth and new commercial and industrial development in the
community that increases household income, higher wages, new jobs, and reduce chronic
unemployment.
2. Enhance and increase the price- diversity of housing to attract and retain professionals and
managers.
3. Enhance existing and expand retailing and commercial development opportunities.
4. Enhance and improve the visual quality of the community through improvement of public
facilities, increased landscaping standards and gateway improvements.
5. Manage plan area growth, including locations in Tulare County, to preserve the economic
integrity and visual quality of the community.
A copy of the planning principles can be found in Appendix B.
Subsequent to adoption of the updated General Plan in January 2000, the City of Delano updated its
Housing Element in accordance with the provisions of State law, which require regular updates of
that General Plan element. The updated Housing Element was adopted in March 2003, and was
subsequently certified by the State Department of Housing and Community Development.
In 2004, the City began a review of its General Plan, which resulted in refinement of the General
Plan to enhance its value as a planning and policy document, consistent with the planning principles
identified above. In particular, an economic development element was added to the General Plan
along with a plan for recreation facilities. The 2004- 2005 General Plan review also incorporated
modifications to the General Plan land use map to better reflect community growth needs.
1.2 BASIS FOR THE GENERAL PLAN
The first step in the 1997- 2000 General Plan update process was the preparation of an economic
analysis for the industrial sector of Delano ( Appendix C). Based upon the results of this study and
previous retail/ commercial analysis, the City was able to determine which types of retail/ commercial
and industrial uses were most likely to generate a stable economic base for the community. The
General Plan land use designations reflect the land uses needed to support the City’s targeted
retail/ commercial and industrial employers. This approach reflects the City’s commitment to
maintain a stable revenue base, which will support future demand for services, thus maintaining and
enhancing Delano’s quality of life.
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December 2005
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1.3 ISSUES OF IMPORTANCE
Using the results of the work program, workshops and steering committee meetings discussed
above, City staff and the general plan consultant concluded the following issues to be of greatest
importance when drafting policies for the General Plan Update:
Agricultural Preservation – Agriculture and its related industries were determined to be crucial
to not only the character of the City of Delano and its surroundings, but the key to the economic
vitality of the community. Agriculture and agricultural related industries were determined to be the
most important employment base for the City of Delano. The economic analysis performed for the
City targeted agricultural supplies and assorted businesses.
Contiguous Planning – In order to maintain a vital economy, preserve surrounding agricultural
lands, maintain a healthy quality of life and minimize public service and facility costs, it was
determined that future growth within the Delano planning area should be contiguous to existing
development, making the best possible use of existing vacant lands within the City limits and
allowing the City to provide services to new development at the most cost- effective, efficient
manner possible. The economic vitality of the City is best served by concentric growth, which
maintains the existing downtown as the center of the community.
Public Facilities – A key policy throughout all elements of the General Plan is the need for new
development to “ pay its own way.” New development will be encouraged to develop in areas
which can adequately accommodate the increased demand on public services and facilities. New
development will be required to contribute to the cost of providing facilities called for in the General
Plan.
It is also essential for public facilities such as schools, parks and related facilities to be
comprehensively planned so that there are adequate schools and recreational facilities. The
community currently suffers from overcrowding of such facilities, and they should be planned as
integral components of the community’s various neighborhoods.
Neighborhood Development – As Delano increases in size from 34,000 to over 62,000 people by
2020, neighborhood planning will become a key component. The downtown will decrease its role
as a neighborhood shopping area and transition to a specialty, service, and community commercial
area augmented by office and governmental uses. New and existing residential neighborhoods will
need to have augmented park facilities to provide open space.
Economic Development – Concurrent with the City’s population growth has been an increasing
need for local employment, as well as expanded public services and facilities. To address the City’s
need for economic development, Delano’s Economic Development Department undertook
formulation of an economic development strategy in mid- 2004. The results of that strategy have
been incorporated into the 2005 General Plan update, including programs to expand local
employment opportunities and enhance taxable sales within the community. Included in this strategy
is revitalization of the area along the east side of State Route 99, commonly known as “ Block H.”
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General Plan
December 2005
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1.4 ORGANIZATION OF THIS DOCUMENT
State law requires all cities and counties to adopt and maintain a General Plan. This document
contains all of the General Plan elements required by state law, along with other General Plan
elements that the City has determined necessary for the planning of Delano’s future. These elements
are organized as follows:
2.0 Land Use Element
3.0 Circulation Element
4.0 Open Space and Conservation Element
5.0 Housing Element
6.0 Community Design Element
7.0 Noise Element
8.0 Public Services and Facilities Element
9.0 Safety Element
10.0 Economic Development Element
11.0 Parks and Recreation Element
The Appendices of this document contain relevant background information and documentation
supporting the policies recommended in this document, including the visioning/ planning principles
exercise, the economic base study, and the Delano development cost and fee study.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 1
LAND USE ELEMENT
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The Land Use Element for the City of Delano establishes the framework for the principal
development within the Study Area. The city is experiencing significant growth opportunities in
terms of new development and redevelopment. It is the city’s intent to guide new development
and redevelopment by a set of coherent development policies in order to achieve the
implementation of projects that contribute positively to all sectors of the community.
The Land Use Element describes existing land use characteristics and development patterns in
the Study Area. The Land Use Element contains general development standards and guidelines
for future development. The Land Use Element also contains a description of the Land Use Plan
which defines the general location and development intensity for a variety of land uses in the
Study Area. The Land Use Plan is intended to be consistent with the overall community goals as
well as reflective of the physical and environmental constraints affecting land use.
2.2 PURPOSE
The Land Use Element is intended to reflect the values of the community with respect to
development, redevelopment, and preservation of public and private properties within the Study
Area through the year 2020. The element encourages future urbanization while preserving the
environmental characteristics which contribute to a quality of life that attracts residents to the
community. The element sets forth policies and defines land uses to achieve a balanced
community, which offers a wide range of housing types, full- service business and commercial
centers, and a sufficient employment base to reduce the commute for residents. While it can be
expected that some existing development may not be consistent with the development policies
promoted by the Land Use Element and other general plan elements, new and future
development is required by law to be consistent with the general plan.
The Land Use Element encompasses the goals, objectives, policies and programs of the other
elements of the general plan. The Land Use Element provides city officials with a
comprehensive basis for decision- making and provides citizens with an understanding of the
long- range intentions of the city concerning future growth and development.
2.0
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 2
2.3 AUTHORIZATION
California planning law requires every city to adopt a Land Use Element that provides for the
long- term physical development of the community. Government Code Section 65302( a) requires
the General Plan to include:
“ A Land Use Element which designates the proposed general distribution and
general location and extent of the uses of the land for housing, business, industry,
open space, including agriculture, natural resources, recreation, and enjoyment
of scenic beauty, education, public buildings and grounds, solid and liquid waste
disposal facilities, and other categories of public and private uses of land. The
Land Use Element shall include a statement of the standards of population density
and building intensity recommended for the various districts and other territory
covered by the plan. The Land Use Element shall also identify areas covered by
the plan which are subject to flooding and shall be reviewed annually with
respect to those areas.”
ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
2.4 EXISTING LAND USE
As with most cities in California, the detached single- family home is the predominant residential
unit in Delano. Figure 2- 1 is a zoning map of Delano showing concentrations of residential,
commercial, industrial, and agricultural land as prescribed by the current City Zoning ordinance.
Figure 2- 2 shows the location of vacant land in the community.
2.4.1 Resources: Natural Features and Environmental Resources to Conserve
Water - Although Delano historically had drainage sloughs in the community, there are no
current surface water features in Delano, except for open irrigation channels. Groundwater
resources provide the City’s water supply, with distribution via eight municipal water wells. The
wells provide water for all uses including residential, commercial, and emergency service needs
Agricultural Land Use Soils - Delano is surrounded by farmland. Farms near Delano primarily
grow orchard fruits, grapes, almonds, cotton and corn. There are several locations within the
City where agricultural uses are being conducted on land that has been designated for residential,
commercial, or industrial uses. Most farmland is irrigated.
The soils in and near Delano are part of an extensive area of the San Joaquin Valley with
“ prime” agricultural ( Class I and II) soils. Delano has approximately 5,000 acres of prime
agricultural soil within the existing Urban Area Boundary. Approximately 1,500 acres of these
prime soils within the Urban Area Boundary are under Williamson Act preserve contracts.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 3
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 4
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 5
2.4.2 Visual Resources
Natural Visual Resources - The topography of the City and surrounding area is generally level
to gently rolling. However, on clear days Delano has beautiful views of the mountains and hills
to the east.
Developed Visual Resources - Delano has few older neighborhoods with streets lined with lush,
mature trees. The trees provide shade and help reduce summer temperatures. The older homes
are generally well maintained and add charm and elegance to the visual character of the
community. Poor visual quality, lack of landscaping and a deficiency of trees have been
identified as significant deficiencies existing in the community, based on citizen input.
The surrounding orchards and crop lands also provide visual relief from the built environment by
providing a backdrop of mature fruit trees and crops. During spring, the orchards provide
additional visual benefits when the trees are in full bloom. The orchards also give a sense of
rural character to the community.
The downtown central business district area includes the main street commercial core which
currently has landscape planters and street trees installed. The visual appearance of the
downtown will be improved in the near future when the recently prepared downtown master plan
improvements are implemented. The Redevelopment Agency is implementing a façade
improvement program which is enhancing the visual appearance of many downtown buildings.
2.5 POPULATION
Annual population estimates prepared by the State Department of Finance show that Delano is
currently growing at an average annual rate of approximately 5.2 percent since the 1990 U. S.
Census. As of January 1, 1998, the population was estimated to be 34,143, approximately 5,455
of which were in group quarters at the State prison. Population projections presently
acknowledged by the City indicate the average annual growth rate is expected to be five percent
through the year 2020 when the City’s population is anticipated to be over 62,000 residents.
Additional prison development will potentially increase the City population by 5,000 more
persons. Table 2- 1 shows these projections.
Table 2- 1
City of Delano Population
Population Projections Based Upon Existing Trends
Year 1990 1998 2000 2010 2020
Population 22,762 34,143 37,430 49,352 62,845
* Delano will add 5,000
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 6
2.6 SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS
A recent analysis of the industrial and economic trends in California and the Delano area
described the components of the regional agriculture business cluster and identified which
business sectors have grown well in recent years and which have not. The material below
evaluates growth opportunities in the region and outlines the types of development schemes that
could form the basis for the City’s industrial development strategy.
2.6.1 Growth Potential in Regional Economic Base Industries
As a part of the General Plan update process, Applied Development Economics ( ADE) prepared
an analysis of the economic base for the region to be used as a guide for assessing the impact of
changes in the economic base expected to occur over the coming decade.
In conducting its analysis, ADE assumed that the agricultural cluster would continue to dominate
the local economy. However, it was also assumed that there would be a continuing shift in the
mix of businesses in the agricultural cluster toward the production of more high value added
goods and services, and that employment in farming and ranching would continue to decline
with the addition of labor saving technologies and processes.
The primary objective of this study was to identify those business sectors that are the most likely
to produce net new jobs and increasing levels of income for Delano residents. In conducting this
analysis, ADE used a methodology, which is based on detailed, industry specific data available
from the Labor Market Information Division of the California Economic Development
Department. This data permits employment and income trends to be analyzed over the past few
years and project future trends by location, type of business, number of employees and total
payroll. For this analysis, Kern, Tulare and Kings Counties were selected as the area in which
most buyer/ supplier relationships take place, or could take place. Statistical techniques were
used to estimate the gaps in supply in the area that could be targets of opportunity for business
attraction. Similarly, the analysis identifies industries represented in the economic base that
offer prospects for business expansion. The following sections present the key findings and
recommendations resulting from this analysis.
The Regional Context
Growth in basic jobs in California is best seen as a regional phenomenon. While individual
jurisdictions are naturally primarily interested in those businesses located in their city or county,
they are increasingly aware of the importance of regional economic growth for achieving their
own economic growth objectives. For example, the expansion of an existing business in Delano
will draw employees from the three county region. Likewise, the attraction of a new business to
Delano will create the demand for goods and services from throughout the area.
Agriculture was the primary employer in all three counties, with Kern County accounting for
more than ten percent fewer workers in agriculture than the other two counties. Conversely,
Kern County exceeds the average for all counties and has the largest component of Services
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 7
employment of the three, reflecting the significance of Bakersfield in the region’s economic
base.
Kern County has a significant mining industry, which employs 6.9 percent of the labor force
compared to less than one percent for the State and the other counties in the economic region.
The three county economic region is lower than the State in manufacturing employment with
only 8.6 percent of the labor force employed in this sector compared to almost 17 percent for the
State. Kern County has the least number of workers employed in manufacturing of the three
counties with six percent employed in this category compared to 12.3 percent for Tulare and 10.7
percent for Kings.
High growth rates for industrial sectors with high concentration factors signals good prospects
for expansion, while those with high growth and low concentration offers potential for business
attraction. Conversely, industrial sectors with high concentration and low growth may indicate
the need for business retention efforts. The industries in Figure 8 of Appendix C represent the
fifteen largest non- agricultural industries in each growth category.
The Agricultural Cluster
Professionals in the field of local economic development have recently come to understand that
cluster analysis provides a better picture of how an economy functions than simply looking at
individual business categories. Business clusters are the mix of businesses necessary to produce
a final product to be purchased by a consumer. Analysis of specific clusters, such as agriculture,
provides consumers with a variety of food and fiber products.
This level of detail provides an improved picture of the dynamic growth and decline in
employment that is not evident at a higher level of aggregation. For example, goods and services
necessary for the production of food and fiber products are hardly ever in perfect balance. There
are always shortages or overages in some of the elements of the cluster. Knowing this allows
public and private sector decision makers to fine tune their activities to maximize the return on
their investment.
This is particularly true with respect to the availability of a labor force equal to the requirements
of growing elements of business clusters, such as the agricultural business cluster, that is
providing, and will continue to provide, most of the net new basic jobs in the Delano economic
region. There are a number of manufacturing sectors that would be interested in expanding or
locating in Delano. For example, the general industry machinery and miscellaneous food and
kindred products industries are increasing net employment and could be candidates for expansion
of established firms, while paperboard containers and boxes and metal cans and shipping
containers, which are not well established in the area could be candidates for attraction of firms
from other areas.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The City of Delano could benefit from the adoption of specific targets for business attraction and
expansion. Selecting these targets would permit the assessment of the assets and liabilities of the
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 8
City based on the specific requirements of the selected targets. For example, the availability of
land and facilities for business expansion and attraction can be matched against the specific
requirements of the businesses targeted. Similarly, the labor force requirements of the targeted
businesses can be ascertained and incorporated into the educational and training programs
provided by community institutions.
The recommended targets for Delano based on the agricultural cluster analysis and existing
industries in the Community include:
1. Motion Freight Transport, Warehousing and Logistics
2. Agricultural chemicals
3. Farm labor, management and services
4. Health care practitioners and services
2.7 OTHER PLANS AND POLICIES
2.7.1 Present City Land Use Controls
Development within the incorporated City limits is governed by the City zoning ordinance and
building codes. The Planning Commission and City Council cannot approve development
projects that are not in conformance with the General Plan and zoning regulations.
2.7.2 San Joaquin Valley Air Quality Attainment Plan
Delano is located within the San Joaquin Valley Air Basin ( SJVAB) which consists of a basin
shaped like an elongated bowl approximately 250 miles in length and 120 miles in width. It
extends from the crest of the Sierra Nevada west to the crest of the Coast Range and includes the
San Joaquin Valley floor.
2.7.3 Kern County Policy Plan
Kern County’s Urban Boundaries Policies define the ultimate Urban Area Boundary ( UAB)
around incorporated cities. The Delano UAB defines the area under county jurisdiction within
which Delano’s concerns are to be given serious consideration as part of the County’s land use
review process.
Development policy north of County Line Road is controlled by Tulare County. The
Comprehensive Policy Plan of the County of Tulare contains policies which guide growth in
unincorporated areas, includes the adopted land use plans for each incorporated city in the
County, and sets forth the framework for city/ county cooperation in land use matters.
Tulare County and the City of Delano have entered into an agreement that a portion of the
urbanized area in Tulare County along the north side of County Line Road is to be planned
jointly by the City of Delano and Tulare County. In addition to a “ County Line Service Area,”
the agreement also establishes a “ Madonna Water Service Area.” Pursuant to the agreement
between Delano and Tulare County, Tulare County has authorized the City of Delano to provide
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 9
water, sewer, and local drainage services within the County Line Service Area, and to provide
water services within the Madonna Water Service Area. The City and County have also agreed
to maintain mutually agreeable General Plan policies within the joint planning area.
The joint planning of lands along the north side of County Line Road includes the principle of an
equitable allocation of development benefits and impacts resulting from development on both
sides of County Line Road. A guiding tenet of the joint planning effort between the Delano and
Tulare County is that both the benefits and impacts of land development must balance such that
neither jurisdiction is asked to bear the brunt of a development proposed by the other without
appropriate mitigation and commensurate benefit. The following text sets forth the City of
Delano’s policy direction toward development along both sides of County Line Road. The
provisions outlined below addressing requirements for development within the City of Delano
along the south side of County Line shall be effective upon their adoption by the Delano City
County and the adoption of equivalent provisions by the Tulare County Board of Supervisors
affecting development north of County Line Road.
2.7.5 Redevelopment Planning
The City has established a Redevelopment Agency and has adopted a Redevelopment Plan and a
Project Area. Within the project area, the Agency, in conjunction with the City, is removing
blighted buildings and is encouraging new development in the project area, both retail and
service oriented. The Agency has cleared a two block blighted area formerly know as the
“ Chinatown” area, and is actively marketing this approximately 12 acre area for new commercial
development. The Redevelopment Agency has implemented a façade improvement program to
assist downtown businesses with improving the visual appearance of downtown buildings. The
Redevelopment Agency will continue to work closely with the City and Chamber of Commerce
to encourage and promote economic development and the creation of new jobs. The Agency and
City will implement a downtown improvement program which will include new street
landscaping, street lighting, and the installation of new street furniture to enhance the visual
appearance of the downtown.
LAND USE ELEMENT POLICIES
2.8 GENERAL PLAN, ZONING CONSISTENCY AND PLAN ADMINISTRATION
Objectives
A. Establish a well- balanced mix of residential, commercial, industrial, and open
space/ public land uses which will create and maintain a high quality environment and a
fiscally sound community.
Policies, Standards
1. New development shall be consistent with the adopted land use map and policies of the
General Plan.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 10
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 11
2. All development shall conform to the land use density and intensity standards depicted in
the General Plan
3. Changes to zoning shall be consistent with the General Plan. A zone district shall be
deemed consistent with a land use designation when such zone district is specified as
consistent in the Plan Consistency Table. In no case, however, shall the overall maximum
density of the plan designation be exceeded.
a. Residential densities on a portion of a development site may exceed the maximum
densities, if the density for the entire site conforms to the Plan Consistency Table.
Variable residential uses and density incentives may be provided if adequate open
space can be provided on the project site. Site area shall be a minimum of two
acres and a Conditional Use Permit will be required.
4. The City will maintain an updated Zoning Ordinance as appropriate to implement the
General Plan.
5. Development standards shall be adopted for the State Route 99 frontage and gateway
streets to improve the practical function and aesthetic quality of those areas.
6. Lands outside of the existing urban area that are designated for urban use may be
developed if adequate infrastructure ( water, sewer, etc.) is available, and the proposed
uses will not be incompatible or detrimental to surrounding land uses.
7. The City should undertake a review of the General Plan’s demographic, financial, land
use demand and supply, and infrastructure assumptions no less frequently than once
every five years to provide an opportunity for necessary modifications to the General
Plan.
8. Exterior area lighting for non- residential land uses shall be shielded to prevent line of
sight visibility of the light source from abutting property planned for residential uses, or
other sensitive uses.
Objectives
B. Manage land uses along County Line Road to the mutual benefit of the City of
Delano and Tulare County.
Policies, Standards
1. Within the Delano- Tulare County joint planning area, establish a clearly defined Urban
Improvement Area north of County Line Road within which urban development and the
provision of urban services is to be confined. The Urban Improvement Area shall, at a
minimum, include the County Line Service area established in the original joint planning
area agreement between the City and Tulare County.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 12
2. Development of the properties north of County Line Road within the Joint Planning Area
shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Delano General Plan.
a. Areas identified for Industrial use shall be compatible with the City’s Industrial land
use classification.
b. Areas identified as Commercial shall be compatible with the City’s Commercial land
use classification. Commercial land uses north of County Line Road should be oriented
to the freeway traveler, be served primarily by “ pass- by” trips, and should not detract
from the sales tax generation within the City of Delano.
c. Areas identified for Agricultural use shall be compatible with the City’s Agricultural
land use classification.
3. Provision of services by the City of Delano to development within the Urban Improvement
Area and the Madonna Service Area as shown in Figure 2- 3 shall be contingent upon such
development being consistent with the provisions of the Delano General Plan and the Joint
Powers Agreement between the City of Delano and Tulare County. .
a. Impacts of development within the joint planning area shall mitigate impacts that will
result within the City of Delano pursuant to the City’s standards.
b. In cases where a development within the joint planning area would have significant
unavoidable impacts within the City of Delano, ensure that there are overriding
considerations that provide benefits to the City of Delano in excess of the impacts it
will experience.
c. Development shall pay its own way in terms of its capital and ongoing service needs
from the City of Delano. Development within the joint planning area shall be at least
revenue neutral to Delano.
4. Work with Tulare County to expand the existing joint planning agreement to provide for
development on either side of County Line Road to mitigate impacts occurring in the other
jurisdiction and to pay its own way in terms of capital costs and ongoing services that would
be provided by the other jurisdiction. This would mean that new development subject to this
policy would:
a. construct and/ or pay their fair share for the new capital improvements that are required to
meet applicable standards, regardless of the jurisdiction that such improvements are
needed in;
b. be phased so as to ensure that the capital facilities used by the new development meet
applicable standards;
c. be at least revenue neutral across jurisdictional boundaries; and
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 13
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 14
d. ensure that projects approved by one jurisdiction will not increase the cost of public
services provided to existing development within the other jurisdiction.
5. In addition to coordination of land use planning and development review processes, Delano
remains committed to working cooperatively with Tulare County for the upgrade and
improvement of infrastructure, including and not limited to freeway offramps, to serve the
area along County Line Road, including the establishment of funding mechanisms that
ensure development on both sides of County Line Road pays its fair share for improvements
needed in both the City of Delano and Tulare County. .
2.9 RESIDENTIAL LAND USE
Objectives
A. Designate and allow for the development of a wide range of residential housing types in
the City including housing for lower, middle, and upper income families to meet the
needs of all Delano residents.
Policies, Standards
1. The following residential density designations shall be used:
a. Agricultural/ Urban Reserve and Agriculture Preservation Area. In order to
maintain the integrity of farm activities, an Agriculture Preservation Area is
designated along the interior of the Delano Sphere of Influence as depicted on the
General Plan map. Activities within this area are limited to those uses permitted
by the exclusive agricultural zone districts of Kern County.
b. Estate Residential (. 4 – 2.75 dwelling units/ gross acre). The Estate Residential
land use category provides for a land use pattern characterized by single- family
residential development with lot sizes larger than those in the low or medium
density categories. The usual development pattern found in such areas is standard
subdivision development. All residential development herein shall be served by
City sewer and water services and shall have full urban improvements. This
designation also includes former Rural Residential, which is intended for estate
residential characterized by larger single- family residential lots one- half acre in
size or larger.
This land use is also appropriately used when “ Estate Residential” developments
are desired to promote larger lot homes and where the overall density of an area
should be limited because of public facility, safety or aesthetic concerns. The
estate residential area in Southeast Delano shall be developed in conformity with
the community design element.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 15
c. Low Density Residential ( up to 5.0 dwelling units/ gross acre). The low density
residential category provides for a land use pattern of predominantly single- family
development as permitted in the R- 1 district. This designation also provides for
innovative designs, which utilize clustering, duplexes or half- plexes on corner
lots, zero lot line, or planned development features. Developments in excess of
7.0 units per acre are encouraged for infill parcels, in specific plan, master plan
areas or with a PUD.
d. Medium Density Residential ( up to14.0 dwelling units/ gross acre). This land use
category provides for a land use pattern characterized predominantly by small
scale multiple family residential developments. The typical residential pattern
includes duplexes and larger scale, high- amenity apartments. Areas designated
medium- high density residential are to be integrated throughout the community
adjacent to transportation, community services and commercial developments. To
avoid inappropriate concentration of these facilities, such developments shall be
limited to 25 contiguous units when integrated into a single family neighborhood
and to 50 contiguous units when developed as a free standing development. New
development shall conform to the Community Design Element of the General
Plan.
e. High Density Residential ( up to 24.0 dwelling units/ gross acre). The high density
residential land use category provides for the highest residential densities
permitted in the City. It is intended that this category utilize innovative site
planning, provide on- site recreational amenities, and be located near major
community facilities, business centers, and streets of at least collector capacity.
Such developments shall use high quality architectural design features, intensified
landscaping, adequate open space, adequate parking, and adequate on- site
recreational facilities.
2. The City may use the planned unit development and Planned Community District to
provide density increases of up to 30%. Granting of all or part of the bonus will depend
upon the developer’s demonstration of the quality of design in such areas as access,
circulation, building placement, parking, provision of adjacent open space, and
architectural compatibility with the surrounding area.
3. Manufactured and modular housing developments shall be permitted in accordance with
state law subject to design regulations and existing ordinances.
4. Housing may be permitted by Conditional Use Permit in the Central Commercial
designation as part of a mixed- use concept. However, housing uses shall be discouraged
on the ground floor of commercially designated properties.
Objectives
B. Promote stable, high quality residential neighborhoods.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 16
Policies, Standards
1. Multi- family residential developments with more than 25 units shall have direct access to
a collector or arterial street.
2. Where new residential development is proposed that adjoins existing commercial or
industrial development, development along both sides of the land use boundary shall be
required to provide appropriate buffers of architectural transitions through the use of
building setbacks, landscaping and masonry walls.
3. Site development techniques should be encouraged which ensure a mix of housing types
throughout the community.
4. In order to encourage infill development, flexible design standards should be developed
which are tailored to the needs of the individual site, while meeting the intent of the
General Plan.
5. Where feasible, multi- family developments should be located near commercial and
community services.
6. Multi- family developments shall provide extensive landscaping. Block walls adjacent to
the public right of way shall be discouraged unless they are found to be necessary for
public health and safety.
2.10 COMMERCIAL LAND USE
Objectives
A. Ensure the provision of adequate commercial shopping opportunities and office space
locations to meet anticipated needs.
Policies, Standards
1. Establish the following commercial land use designations:
a. Commercial. The Commercial land use designation provides for the development
of neighborhood commercial uses within 5- 10 acre clusters to serve the everyday
convenience goods and personal service needs of a defined neighborhood. The
service radius of a neighborhood commercial use is generally 1/ 2 mile. The
Commercial land use designation also provide for the development of 10- acre or
larger cluster of commercial establishments serving needs similar to the
neighborhood commercial centers, but serving larger areas. These community
commercial areas are intended to be clustered along State Route 99 and along
arterial roadways within the community. The community commercial center
generally serves a market area as large as ten miles, depending upon the its
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 17
specific uses. Such facilities should be located along State Route 99, with center
providing supermarkets within in each residential quadrant of the community to
minimize cross- town traffic. The Commercial land use designation also provides
for mixed use activity in the downtown area and within Block H between the
downtown and State Route 99. It is intended to provide for a wide range of uses
and to promote feasibility in the reuse of downtown buildings. Mixed use
development, including residential development may be permitted within the
downtown area and Block H, subject to approval of a specific plan by the City
Council. The maximum allowable development intensity shall be a floor area
ratio of 1.0 within the downtown and Block H area, 0.50in other portions of the
City.
b. General Service Commercial. This designation provides for commercial areas
with a wide range of retail and service activities along major traffic corridors.
Properties abutting existing General Service Commercial properties may be
developed to such use where they are combined with properties having frontage
on Cecil Avenue. The maximum allowable development intensity shall be a floor
area ratio of 0.50.
2. Neighborhood Commercial sites, generally 5- 10 acres in size, should be located at or near
the intersection of collector and/ or arterial streets with a minimum of overlap with other
existing or planned neighborhood commercial uses. Only one neighborhood commercial
development may be permitted at any one intersection. Such developments should also be
directly accessible from adjacent residential developments.
3. Community Commercial, in areas of 10 acres and larger, should be located along major
traffic ways in consolidated centers that utilize common access and parking for
commercial uses. Strip commercial uses are to be discouraged. Adequate pedestrian links
to residential areas shall be required. New centers are proposed for Woollomes/ State
Route 99 and at Garces Highway and Browning Road. While adequate land needs to be
reserved for community commercial use, care needs to be taken not to provide more
commercial land than can reasonably be developed
4. The Commercial land use designation has been applied to the downtown area to assist in
attracting and accommodating a mix of commercial, financial, office, governmental and
limited residential uses.
a. Rehabilitation of existing structures to accommodate residential and office
facilities in the upper floors in the CBD Commercial district are encouraged.
b. Conversion of existing residential units is encouraged adjacent to the downtown
to provide for smaller scale office space.
5. Professional office land uses are encouraged within commercially designated areas,
including new offices within unified centers, redevelopment of existing sites to office
use, and the conversion of older homes to offices along major streets. Where homes are
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 18
converted to offices, such conversion should be a logical extension of existing or planned
office/ commercial uses, and the lot should be of adequate size to accommodate parking in
the rear of the structure or outside of the front yard landscape setback. Zoning standards
for conversion of existing residential structures should be developed.
6. Commercial and office site planning shall be compatible with the surrounding
neighborhood, signage, and landscaping.
Objectives
B. Provide for the compatible integration of residential and commercial uses.
Policies, Standards
1. Development along the interface between commercial or office uses and residential uses
shall provide for the following:
a. A landscaped setback containing deciduous and evergreen trees shall be planted
and maintained along the property line between commercial and office uses and
residential properties that have a common property line.
b. A masonry wall shall be erected along the property line where commercial and
office uses have a common property line with residentially designated properties.
c. All commercial loading and storage areas shall be screened from view of
adjoining residential property by a combination of landscape planting and a
masonry wall. Loading areas shall be enclosed and be located so that there are no
noise impacts to adjacent residential properties. All storage shall be within an
enclosed structure.
d. Roof- mounted and detached mechanical equipment shall be acoustically baffled
to prevent noise from the equipment from exceeding 55 dB( A) measured at the
nearest residential property line.
2. In order to encourage the integration of neighborhood and community commercial uses
into neighborhoods, designs should de- emphasize the usage of walls as buffers where
they create barriers to pedestrian access. Continuous block walls shall be discouraged;
offsets, landscaping pockets and openings shall be encouraged.
3. In order to ensure continued viability of the downtown as the central business district for
the community, residential development shall be directed so that the downtown remains
the approximate geographic center of the community.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 19
2.11 INDUSTRIAL LAND USE
Objectives
A. Promote industrial sites which are functional, have adequate public services, and have
access to major streets and railroads.
Policies, Standards
1. The Industrial land use designation: is intended for uses such as fabricating, assembly,
research and development, electronics, warehousing and other such similar industrial
uses. Light industrial development, where all work, materials, and equipment storage is
generally conducted indoors, is appropriate as a buffer between heavy industrial and non-industrial
uses and where the site is visible from residential areas or major streets. Special
landscaping, enclosures and other site development standards should be used. Industrial
park development is intended on larger parcels to create distinct districts of industrial,
office, and support uses. The industrial park area shall have high quality landscaping,
architectural designs, and general site development requirements. Heavy industrial uses,
including manufacturing with outdoor storage equipment or work areas and wholesale
distribution involving intensive truck activity should be separated from residential areas
and should be located with direct access to major streets or railroads, such that truck
traffic will not impact residential neighborhoods. The maximum allowable development
intensity shall be a floor area ratio of 0.75.
2. Promote a mix of industrial uses that provide the City with a sound, diverse industrial
base, and which is consistent with the City’s infrastructure constraints.
3. Locate industry with access to major streets, truck routes, and rail service.
4. Industrial development should not create significant off- site circulation, noise, dust, odor,
visual, and hazardous materials impacts that cannot be adequately mitigated.
a. Major streets, which pass through industrial areas and serve as entrances to the
City, shall receive special design treatment to reduce aesthetic impacts and traffic
concerns.
Objectives
B. Provide for the compatible integration of industrial uses in the Community.
Policies, Standards
1. Industrial land shall be accessible by major and secondary arterials residential areas in the
community. Truck traffic shall be routed to Hwy 99, Browning Road, Garces Highway,
Woollomes, Schuster Road, or Albany St.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 20
Objectives
C. Provide for the use and re- use of light industrial properties in the downtown to
complement adjacent commercial, office and residential land uses.
Policies, Standards
1. The City should encourage redevelopment of industrial properties which are near the
downtown to provide for adequate on- site parking, loading and unloading facilities,
vehicular and truck circulation.
2. Limited expansion of existing non- conforming uses in this area may be permitted subject
to an analysis of site area limitations, land use compatibility with surrounding land uses,
environmental impacts and economic factors. Expansion or increases in intensity may be
permitted through the Conditional Use Permit process.
2.12 PUBLIC AND INSTITUTIONAL LAND USE
Objectives
A. Provide sites for adequate public facilities to serve projected growth.
Policies, Standards
1. Establish the following public facility land uses:
a. Public Buildings and Grounds. This designation indicates areas owned and
maintained by public or institutional agencies such as the city, schools, hospitals,
and other special districts.
b. Parks and Open Space. This designation determines areas of permanent open
spaces, parks and/ or areas precluded from major development.
2. Sites depicting Public Buildings and Grounds or Parks and Open Space are conceptual
and may be located anywhere in the same general vicinity.
Objectives
B. Provide for adequate school sites and school site expansion to meet school facility needs
in a timely manner as provided by law.
Policies, Standards
1. Provide information to the Delano Elementary School District and the Delano Union
High School District regarding new residential development projects proposed to be
constructed in the City.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 21
2. Coordinate school location and site design with the school districts to ensure that
adequate facilities are available.
3. Delano will support school site identification, reservation, and acquisition that is
consistent with California Government Code Sections 66479- 66482. The City will adopt
a school site reservation ordinance to be applied to proposed development projects.
4. Elementary schools should be located on interior residential areas at collector/ local street
intersections. Additional street frontage is desirable to provide a transition area to
adjacent residences. Schools should abut neighborhood parks with adjacent development
backing or siding onto the school. Pedestrian and bicycle access should be provided.
5. Intermediate or Junior High Schools should be located in residential areas with a central
location for surrounding area elementary schools at collector/ collector or collector/ local
street intersections. Additional local street frontage is desired for transition to adjacent
residential areas. Maximize pedestrian and bicycle access and on/ off- site circulation.
These schools should be located so that there are future expansion opportunities.
6. High Schools should be located at arterial- collector intersections with additional frontage
on at least one other street. These sites should be located to provide for future expansion.
7. New commercial development should be discouraged within a minimum of 1/ 4- mile of
school sites.
8. High Density Residential complexes abutting school sites should be discouraged.
9. The City and school districts shall continue to encourage joint use of school multi-purpose
facilities and open space.
10. The school districts shall be encouraged to coordinate their school location, facility
construction and phasing with the City’s development guidelines contained in the Land
Use Element and the City’s Capital Improvement Plan to ensure that school facilities are
located in areas where there are planned and programmed streets, sewerage, storm
drainage systems and other necessary infrastructure.
11. It is the policy of the City that adequate school facilities be available to serve new
development. In implementing this policy both the City and school districts recognize
that State law provides that the provision of school facilities is the exclusive
responsibility of the State and the respective school districts. However, since the
potential may still exist that sources of financing, including statutory developer fees, state
and local school bond monies and other state funds will be inadequate, and the City shall
work with the school districts to identify opportunities for joint funding of recreation and
community facilities at school sites.
12. The status of school impact mitigation shall be reviewed in accordance with Policy
2.7. A. 9.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 22
Objectives
C. Ensure that land uses in the vicinity of the airport are compatible with airport operations
Policies, Standards
1. Land use intensity and use shall be in accordance with City of Delano Airport
compatibility criteria indicated on Table 2- 2 for the zones indicated on Figure 3- 5.
Table 2- 2
Compatibility Criteria
Kern County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
Maximum Densities
Zone Location 1 Impact Elements
Residential2
( du/ ac)
Other Uses
( people/ ac) 3
Required
Open
Land 4
A Runway Protection Zone or within
Building Restriction Line
< High risk
< High noise levels 0 10 All Remaining
B1 Approach/ Departure Zone and Adjacent
to Runway
< Substantial risk —
aircraft commonly below
400 ft. AGL or within
1,000 ft. of runway
< Substantial noise
0.1 60 30%
B2 Extended Approach/ Departure zone < Significant risk —
aircraft commonly below
800 ft. AGL
< Significant noise
0.5 60 30%
C Common Airport Environs < Limited risk — aircraft at
or below 1,000 ft. AGL
< Frequent noise intrusion
15 150 15%
D Other Airport Environs < Negligible risk
< Potential for annoyance
from overflights
No Limit No Limit No
Requirements
Additional Criteria Examples
Zone Prohibited Uses5
Other Development
Conditions8 Normally Acceptable Uses 9
Uses Not Normally
Acceptable 10
A < All structures except
ones with location set by
aeronautical function
< Assemblages of people
< Objects exceeding FAR
part 77 height limits
< Hazards to flight 6
< Dedication of aviation
easement
< Aircraft tiedown apron
< Pastures, field crops,
vineyards
< Automobile parking
< Heavy poles, signs, large
trees, etc.
B1
and
B2
< Schools, day care
centers, libraries
< Hospitals, nursing homes
< Highly noise- sensitive
uses ( e. g. amphitheaters)
< Storage of highly
flammable materials7
< Hazards to flight 6
< Locate structures
maximum distance from
extended runway
centerline
< Dedication of aviation
easement
< Uses in Zone A
< Any agricultural use
except ones attracting
bird flocks
< Warehousing, truck
terminals
< Two- story offices
< Single- family homes on
an existing lot
< Residential subdivisions
< Intensive retail uses
< Intensive manufacturing
or food processing uses
< Offices with more than
two stories
< Hotels and motels
C < Schools
< Hospitals, nursing homes
< Hazards to flight 6
< Dedication of over- flight
easement for residential
uses
< Uses in Zone B
< Parks, playgrounds
< Most retail uses
< Duplexes and medium-density
apartments
< Two- story motels
< Large shopping malls
< Theaters, auditoriums
< Large sports stadiums
< Hi- rise office buildings
with more than four
stories
D. < Hazards to flight6 < Deed notice required for
residential development
< All except ones
hazardous to flight
<
See NOTES on following page.
Source: Comprehensive Airport Land Use Plan ( 1996)
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan 2- 23
Table 2- 2 ( Continued)
Compatibility Criteria
Kern County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan
NOTES:
1. Zones may also apply elsewhere if an airport has atypical operational procedures or
specialized aircraft activities.
2. Residential parcels should not contain more than the indicated number of dwelling units
per gross acre. Clustering of units is encouraged as a means of meeting the Required
Open Land requirements.
3. The land use should not attract more than the indicated number of people per acre at any
time. This figure should include all individuals who may be on the property ( e. g.,
employees, customers/ visitors, etc.). These densities are intended as general planning
guidelines to aid in determining the acceptability of proposed land uses. Special short-term
events related to aviation ( e. g., air shows), as well as non- aviation special events,
are exempt from the maximum density criteria.
4. Open land requirements are intended to be applied with respect to the entire zone. This is
typically accomplished initially as part of the community’s general plan or a specific
plan.
5. May be modified by airport- specific policies or decision of local governing body with
appropriate adopted findings based upon evidence in the record.
6. See Kern County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Policy Section 3.3, Airspace
Protection.
7. Within the B1 and B2 zones, only the following flammable materials are permitted:
aviation fuels, other aviation- related materials, and up to 2,000 gallons of nonaviation
materials.
8. These conditions do not apply to ministerial actions.
9. These uses typically can be designed to meet the density requirements and other
development conditions listed.
10. These uses typically do not meet the density and other development conditions listed.
They should be allowed only if a major community objective is served by their location
in this zone and no feasible alternative location exists.
Source: Comprehensive Airport Land Use Plan ( 1996)
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 1
CIRCULATION ELEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL SETTINGS
3.1 INTRODUCTION
This section discusses the existing circulation system in the Delano area and reviews the current
plans and related issues that affect the Circulation Element. Also included is an analysis of the
operating condition of the current circulation system along with identification of traffic problems
within the community. Other alternative transportation modes including transit, aviation, rail,
bicycle and pedestrian, truck, transportation management systems, goods movement, and parking are
discussed.
3.2 PURPOSE
The Circulation Element was first required by state law in 1955. Since then, transportation technology
and needs in California have changed greatly, with the emphasis today on the development of a
balanced, multi- modal transportation system. According to state law, the policies and plan proposals of
the Circulation Element should:
􀂃 Coordinate the transportation and circulation system with planned land uses;
􀂃 Promote the efficient transport of goods and the safe and effective movement of all segments of
the population;
􀂃 Make efficient use of the existing transportation facilities; and
􀂃 Protect environmental quality and promote the wise and equitable use of economic and natural
resources.
The Circulation Element should cover the following to the extent that they pertain to the community:
􀂃 Streets and highways;
􀂃 Parking provisions;
3.0
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 2
􀂃 Transit and paratransit;
􀂃 Railroads;
􀂃 Air transportation; and
􀂃 Bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
The policies and plan proposals of the Circulation Element should be coordinated closely with those of
the Land Use, Housing, Noise, and Community Design Elements.
3.3 AUTHORIZATION
Government Code Section 65302( b) states the following as the mandatory requirement for General Plan
Circulation Elements:
“ A Circulation Element consisting of the general location and extent of existing
and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals, and other
local public utilities and facilities, all correlated with the Land Use Element of
the plan.”
3.4 EXISTING TRANSPORTATION AND CIRCULATION
3.4.2 Existing Plans and Elements
The Delano Circulation Element has been prepared to be consistent with the other plans or elements
currently in effect. This consistency is a requirement of all elements of the community's General Plan.
The following are the plans that have been used in the development of this Element.
􀂃 City of Delano, Final Transit Development Plan, prepared by Max Bacerra & Associates,
June 1997
􀂃 City of Delano, Municipal Airport Master Plan Update, prepared by Aries Consultants
Limited, October 1992
􀂃 City of Delano, Subdivision Standards
􀂃 City of Delano, Enter Prior Zone Boundary Map
􀂃 Downtown Delano Circulation Study, prepared by QUAD Consultants, May 1994
􀂃 Kern Council of Governments, Regional Transportation Plan, 2005
􀂃 Peters Engineering Group, City of Delano Circulation Element Supplement, May 17,
2005.
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 3
3.4.3 Streets and Highways
This sub- section describes the existing conditions of the community's street and highway network.
Also included is a discussion of functional classification, street capacity, and Level of Service. The
sub- section will close with an assessment of the system's existing operating conditions and problems.
Functional Classification
A community's street system is composed of a wide range of facilities. Street and highway facilities
serve two basic functions, mobility and land access. Mobility means the provision for the movement of
motorists between their points of interest or from one place to another. Land access means providing
for the parking, storage or driveway access at the origin or destination of a person's trip.
Each facility type in a circulation element is designed to emphasize to varying degrees the mobility
or land access function. Some facilities emphasize land access over mobility, while other streets
emphasize mobility over land access. The following hierarchy delineates the typical function of the
facilities used in this circulation element.
Table 3.1
Functional Classification
Facility Type Emphasis
Freeway Mobility with no direct land access and access limited to interchanges.
Expressway Mobility with more frequent access to arterials but no direct land access.
Major Arterial Mobility with connections to freeways, arterials and other collector streets, and
limited access to traffic generators.
Arterial Mobility with connections to other arterials, collectors, some local streets and
major traffic generators.
Collector Connects local streets with arterials, also provides access to adjacent land uses;
balances mobility and access.
Local Access to adjacent land uses only; no mobility function.
Freeways
Table 3.1 shows that freeways are designed to provide for higher volumes of traffic at higher speeds,
over longer distances. Greater volumes and speeds require limited access, which is generally regulated
by interchanges spaced at a minimum of one mile in urban areas, and two miles in rural areas. Within
the City of Delano, interchanges between Garces and Cecil do not meet this standard.
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 4
Expressways
Expressways, like Freeways, provide for higher traffic volumes, at higher speeds and longer travel
distances. Access is provided via at- grade intersections, generally spaced no closer than one- half mile
apart. Expressways are intended to provide a high level of capacity in selected high volume corridors.
Major Arterials
Major Arterials provide access to major travel generators and are typically designed with six lanes for
through traffic, a parking/ transit/ right turn lane, and a median with dual left turn lanes at intersections.
Access to adjacent land uses is limited. Arterials provide for moderate volumes at moderate speeds and
distances, with access to other arterials and collectors at half- mile intervals, and access to local streets
and collectors at quarter mile intervals.
Arterials
Arterials are intended to provide the majority of a community’s traffic carrying capacity. Arterials
provide connections via interchanges to the freeway system and to other arterials and collectors via
intersections. Arterials, more than any other type of street, illustrate the conflicts which may arise
between the provision of access and mobility. Typically, arterials are designed with two through lanes
in each direction, a median with a left turn lane, and transit stop/ right turn lanes on each side.
Collectors
Collectors are intended to provide connectivity between local streets and the arterial street system.
Collectors also provide access to major activity centers ( commercial or employment) and some
abutting land uses. Collector streets are typically designed with one through lane in each direction, a
left turn lane, and parking/ right turn lane/ transit stop areas on both sides.
Local Streets
Local Streets are intended to provide direct access to abutting land uses. Movement of traffic is the
secondary purpose for local streets. Local streets should not carry through traffic. Local streets also
serve as easements for utilities. Typically, these streets are designed with one lane in each direction and
parking is provided on both sides.
The proper designation of the community's street network can assist in the development of an efficient
system for both mobility and access. The proper balance not only ensures that a street is sized to
function properly, but it allows a community to properly allocate its resources to the streets needing
additional capacity or improvements. A properly designed system will also prevent the use of local
streets for through trips or the overburdening of freeways, expressways, and arterials with traffic.
Problems begin to occur in a system when a street that is designated to provide mobility is asked to
provide land access. Land access typically requires driveways and on- street parking to adequately
address the land access function. When many access points or on- street parking is provided, traffic
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 5
conflicts occur and the facility loses its ability to provide for mobility. Likewise, when a street
designed for access is asked to provide for mobility, conflicts occur. This generally happens on arterial
and collector streets that were not developed with adequate access control or on local streets that are
asked to carry through traffic.
Existing Street System
The following describes the existing circulation system for the community.
State Highways and Freeways
State Route ( SR) 99 runs in a north- south direction through the center of the City. SR 99 is a major
freeway, which connects Northern California and Southern California. The facility provides for
regional movement and inter- regional access through the Central Valley from Bakersfield to
Sacramento. The freeway is a four lane divided facility that is currently being upgraded to a six lane,
divided freeway. A number of the interchanges along State Route 99, including Garces, Cecil, Fourth,
Avenue, Eleventh Avenue, and County Line Road are substandard, and in need of improvements.
SR 155 is a two lane, undivided highway in the study area. In the City of Delano, SR 155 is comprised
of a two- way couplet that runs north and south fronting SR 99 between the SR 99 at 9th Avenue ramps
and Garces Highway. The west portion of the couplet is designated as Ellington Street and the east
portion of the couplet is designated as Fremont Street in the City of Delano. Both portions of the
couplet are designated as collectors. SR 155 also runs in an east- west fashion through the City of
Delano east of SR 99. This portion of SR 155 is designated as Garces Highway and is classified as a
major arterial. SR 155 connects to the Sequoia National Forest entrance east of the City.
Arterials
There are six arterials designated in the Delano Urban Area. Generally, arterial streets are developed
with right- of- way widths of 90’ - 110’ depending on medians and turn lane requirements. Delano does
not have an arterial developed to full arterial standards, which is four lanes with a center median. Most
of the existing arterials in the community are two lanes in each direction and with some left turn lanes
at signalized intersections.
County Line Road, Cecil Avenue, Garces Highway, and a portion of Woollomes Avenue are the City’s
east- west arterials. Cecil Avenue and Garces Highway are the primary east- west arterials servicing the
City. The majority of Garces Highway is a two lane undivided facility. The majority of Cecil Avenue is
a four lane undivided facility where the street passes through the City. The area between Cecil Avenue
and Garces Highway, east of SR 99 is considered to be the City’s central business district.
The north- south arterials in the community are Albany Street, High Street, and Browning Road, which
are all located within the City limits. Albany Street delineates the City’s western boundary. High Street
runs parallel to SR 99 and serves as the primary north- south arterial in the central City area. Albany
Street, High Street, and Browning Road are two lane, undivided facilities. Browning Road marks the
current eastern boundary of the City limits.
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 6
Arterial Streets
North- South East- West
Albany Street/ Stradley
Road
Cecil Avenue
Browning Road County Line Road
High Street Garces Highway
Hiett Avenue Woollomes Avenue ( portion)
Randolph Street Schuster Road
Collectors
All or portions of the following streets are currently designated as collector streets in the Delano area.
Collectors are currently constructed on 60’ - 80’ right- of- ways with one lane in each direction and
parking on both sides.
Collector Streets
North- South East- West
Princeton Street 13th Avenue
Ellington Street 9th Avenue
Fremont Street 11th Avenue
Garzoli Avenue 20th Avenue
Girard Street Woollomes Avenue ( portion)
Lexington Street
Norwalk Street
Clinton Street
Local Streets
The remainder of the streets in the community are classified as local. Local streets are typically 50’ -
60’ right- of- way with two lanes and parking on each side.
Gateways and Scenic Corridors
There are no designated scenic corridors identified in Delano. Gateway streets have been designated
for Fremont Street, High Street, Cecil Avenue, Glenwood, Ellington Street, Garces Highway, County
Line Road, Browning Road, Albany Street, and Woollomes Avenue.
Roads Of Regional Significance
Regional access to the Delano area exists through freeways and rural roadways. Roadways that
provide regional access to the community of Delano include Albany Street, Browning Road, Cecil
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 7
Avenue, Garces Highway ( SR 155 east of SR 99), and State Routes 43, 46, and 99. Figure 3- 1
identifies the Regional Roadway System for the City of Delano area.
Albany Street is a north- south arterial on the western edge of the Delano City limits. It provides
access to McFarland to the south. Albany Street is a two lane undivided facility. Browning Road is
also a north- south arterial located east of Delano. Browning Road extends south to McFarland and
provides access to SR 99 in McFarland. Browning is a two lane undivided road. Cecil Avenue is an
east- west facility running through the center of Delano that connects to SR 43 to the west and rural
areas to the east. It is a 2- 4 lane undivided facility from Albany to Randolph and a two lane
undivided facility in the rural areas.
Garces Highway, designated as SR 155 from SR 99 east, is also an east- west facility that is located
to the south of Delano. Garces Highway extends to Corcoran Road and SR 43 to the west and to the
Porterville Highway ( SR 65) and the Sequoia National Forest to the east. This is a two lane
undivided facility.
SR 43 is a north- south highway west of Delano. This highway provides access from Fresno and
Tulare Counties to the north, and Kern County to the south. SR 43 is a two lane undivided facility.
SR 46 is an east- west highway and is located south of Delano. SR 46 originates in the town of
Famoso, at SR 99, and continues west to SR 1 along the Pacific Ocean’s coast. SR 99 is a north-south
freeway that runs through the center of Delano. This major regional facility provides access to
Northern and Southern California. SR 99 is a four lane divided highway.
Existing Traffic Conditions
The existing traffic conditions were evaluated to develop a base line, or beginning point, for
understanding Delano's existing street network. This analysis was completed for freeways, selected
arterials and collector streets. The analysis focused on three specific issues: street capacity, classified
system pattern and connectivity.
The evaluation of street capacity was the central focus of the analysis process. The capacity of a street
or highway is affected by a number of factors. The number of lanes; the location and spacing of
intersections; the type of traffic control devices used ( stop signs, traffic signs, etc.); the traffic signal
timing plan; the use of on- street parking; the percentage of trucks; the level of transit activity; and the
number and location of adjacent driveways all have an effect on the carrying capacity of a particular
street or highway segment. Table 3- 2 defines carrying capacities of the street facilities in the
community. Each facility is presented with a different number of lanes and with different geometric
characteristics. The capacity shown for each facility represents the theoretical capacity of the street at
LOS “ E.”
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 8
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 9
Table 3- 2
Capacity of Functionally Classified System
Facility
Geometrics
LOS “ E”
Theoretical Capacity 1
LOS “ C”
Theoretical Capacity
Freeway
Major Arterial
Arterial
Collector
Local
4 Lane
6 Lane
4 Lane- divided
6 Lane- divided
2 Lane- divided
4 Lane- divided
6 Lane- divided
2 Lane- undivided
4 Lane- undivided
2 Lane with lefts
4 Lane with lefts
2 Lane- divided
4 Lane- divided
2 Lane- undivided
4 Lane- undivided
2 Lane with lefts
4 Lane with lefts
63,800
95,700
29,400
44,500
13,800
28,800
43,700
13,100
23,000
13,4002
27,360
11,100
23,000
10,600
18,400
10,8002
21,800
5,0003
49,600
74,400
22,800
34,600
10,700
22,400
34,000
10,200
17,900
10,400
21,300
8,600
17,900
8,200
14,300
8,400
17,000
5,000
Notes:
1. Daily two- way traffic volumes representing 99% of the street’s capacity
2. Includes left turn pockets and two- way continuous left turn lanes estimated from
2 lane divided and 2 lane undivided capacities
3. Estimated capacity for local streets
Source: Florida’s Level of Service Standards and Guidelines Manual for
Planning, Florida’s Department of Transportation, 1992.
The table delineates the capacities of the various street segments to be evaluated. The capacity is
defined as the number of cars ( vehicles) per lane that pass a specific point during a twenty- four hour
period.
The evaluation of a street's capacity introduces the concept of level of service ( LOS), which is defined
as a qualitative measure describing operational conditions within a traffic stream, and the perception of
these conditions by motorists. A specific level of service definition generally describes these
conditions in terms of factors such as speed and travel time; freedom to maneuver; traffic interruptions;
comfort and convenience; and safety. There are six LOS designations ranging from “ A” to “ F,” with
“ A” representing the best operating condition and “ F” representing the worst. At LOS “ E,” the street
begins to operate less efficiently and the driver is subject to excessive delays.
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 10
The Level of Service for each critical street segment has been calculated using volume capacities from
the Florida Department of Transportation's Florida's Level of Service Standards and Guidelines
Manual for Planning, April 1992 ( Florida Tables). This manual provides a method for evaluating
freeways, expressways, arterials, and collectors. This method was selected for this analysis because of
its intended use in planning studies and its consistency with adopted procedures for the Kern Council
of Governments ( Kern COG).
The Florida Tables are generalized planning tables based on the definitions and measurement
techniques of the 1985 Highway Capacity Manual. This methodology incorporates signalization
characteristics ( number of signals per mile) and roadway characteristics ( number of lanes, left- turn
pockets, divided/ undivided) into the LOS determination. The Florida Tables separate facility types
into freeways, state arterials with both interrupted ( signalized) and uninterrupted ( non- signalized)
flow, and non- state roadways. Within these various classifications, the facilities are separated by
number of lanes and divided versus undivided. There are also adjustments for facility types not
given in the tables. For each facility type under each classification are levels of service A through F
with corresponding traffic volumes. These volumes are the maximum amount of traffic that a given
facility with given characteristics can carry and maintain a given LOS. This maximum volume per
LOS is also called the capacity of the facility. Appendix D contains copies of the Florida Level of
Service Tables used in evaluating the Delano circulation system.
As can be seen on the Florida Tables shown in Appendix D, higher level of service values may not
be achieved on interrupted flow facilities even with extremely low traffic volumes. As stated in the
Florida Tables manual, “ these higher quality levels of service cannot be achieved primarily because
the signalization characteristics simply will not allow vehicles to attain relatively high average travel
speeds.” Therefore, when looking at the circulation tables in the General Plan and it's EIR, streets
labeled as collectors will never attain LOS “ A” and “ B.” Likewise, arterials with a higher number of
signals will never attain LOS “ A”.
Existing Traffic Volumes
To complete the assessment of existing 1997 traffic conditions in Delano, the Kern COG traffic model,
the CalTrans 1995 Traffic Volumes Report, and 1997 count data was used. Kern COG’s model has the
capabilities to estimate traffic volumes for any given roadway based on actual counts taken in recent
years. The existing conditions assessment includes City streets and County roads. Traffic volumes
shown in Figure 3- 2 reflect average daily traffic in vehicles per day.
Existing Level of Service
The traffic volumes delineated on the following page were used to evaluate the operating conditions of
the existing street and highway system. The analysis was based on the relation of the existing traffic
volume of the street to the current maximum capacity volume of the street.
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 11
City of Delano
General Plan
December 2005
3- 12
The City has set its level of service standard at LOS “ C,” except at freeway interchanges and other high
volume locations, where LOS “ D” is used. CalTrans adopted level of service standard is LOS “ D.”
Table 3- 3 lists the analyzed streets by segment. A brief description of the existing geometrics ( number
of lanes) and the facility type is provided. The existing traffic volumes shown in Table 3- 2 are either
1997 counts supplied by the city, 1998 counts supplied by the City’s consultant ATE, estimated from
the 1997 Kern COG model, special speed/ volume counts prepared by the City Engineer, or counts
taken from the CalTrans Count Book. The volumes that are actual counts or were taken from the
CalTrans Count Book are noted in Table 3- 3. The current theoretical capacity, LOS “ E,” of the
specific segment is given and was developed based on the geometrics of the facility in conjunction with
the Florida Tables. The current level of service shown was developed from the traffic volume
information, the geometrics and the Florida Tables.
The result of the existing level of service analysis shows that all of the major streets in the
community are currently operating at LOS “ C” or above. There is a significant factor of note with
regard to the usage of the Kern COG projections to describe existing conditions. In at least several
significant circumstances ( Cecil, Girard and Garces which have new traffic counts), the Kern COG
traffic model significantly under- projects traffic volumes on major roadways. Therefore the data in
Table 3- 3 should be used to illustrate the pattern of traffic in the community and these projections
should not be construed as actual traffic volumes.
City of Delano
General Plan Update
December 2005
3- 13
Table 3- 3
EXISTING CIRCULATION SYSTEM
Street Segment Existing Geometrics Facility Existing Level of
Facility Median Type Volume Service
Wasco- Pond Road Cecil Ave to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Garces Highway to Pond 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Pond Road to Peterson 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Peterson to Elmo Highway 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Casey Avenue County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Melcher Road County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 550E CF
Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 550E CF
Garces Highway to Hart 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Albany Street County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Arterial 350E A
( Stradley) Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Arterial 580E A
Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Arterial 1,800E A
Woollomes to Hart 2 lane Undivided Arterial N/ A
Hart to Pond 2 lane Undivided Arterial N/ A
Dover Place Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Collector 840 CF
Ellington Street Cecil to 11th 2 lane Undivided Collector 3,300E CF
( SR 155) 11th to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Collector 3,420A CF
Garces Highway to 1st 2 lane Undivided Collector 7,300E CF
Garzoli Avenue Woollomes to Hart 2 lane Undivided Collector 1,400A CF
Hart to Pond 2 lane Undivided Collector N/ A
SR 99 Ave 16 to County Line Road 4 lane Divided Freeway 38,000B C
County Line Road to Cecil 4 lane Divided Freeway 38,000B C
Cecil to Garces Highway 4 lane Divided Freeway 33,500B B
Garces Highway to Woollomes 4 lane Divided Freeway 35,500B C
Woollomes to Pond 4 lane Divided Freeway 35,500B C
Fremont Street Cecil to 11th 2 lane Undivided Collector 3,500E CF
City of Delano
General Plan Update
December 2005
3- 14
Table 3- 3
EXISTING CIRCULATION SYSTEM
Street Segment Existing Geometrics Facility Existing Level of
Facility Median Type Volume Service
( SR 155) 11th to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Collector 2,450C CF
Garces Highway to First 2 lane Undivided Collector 1,550 C CF
High Street County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Arterial 12,200C C
Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Arterial 700 C B
Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Arterial 5,200 C B
Girard Street County Line Road to High Street 2 lane Undivided Collector 9,300C D
Lexington Street Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Collector 4,900 C CF
Garces Highway to Woollomes 4 lane Undivided Collector 4,600 C CF
Norwalk Street County Line Road to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Collector 1,000E CF
Randolph Street County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided W/ Left Collector 1,200E CF
Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided W/ Left Collector 3,400 C CF
Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Collector 1,120 C CF
Browning Road County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Arterial 1,800A A
Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Arterial 2,300A A
Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Arterial 3,700E B
Driver Road County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Cecil to Garces 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Woollomes to Pond 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Zachary Avenue County Line to Cecil 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Cecil to Garces Highway 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Garces Highway to Woollomes 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Woollomes to Pond 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
County Line Road Mettler to SR 99 2 lane Undivided Arterial 1,100E A
City of Delano
General Plan Update
December 2005
3- 15
Table 3- 3
EXISTING CIRCULATION SYSTEM
Street Segment Existing Geometrics Facility Existing Level of
Facility Median Type Volume Service
SR 99 to Girard 2 lane Undivided Arterial 3,100E B
Girard to Browning 2 lane Undivided W/ Left Arterial 2,600E A
Browning to Driver 2 lane Undivided Arterial 400E A
Driver to Zachary 2 lane Undivided Arterial 400E A
20th Avenue Girard Street to Browning Road 2 lane Undivided Collector 1,100E CF
Cecil Avenue Wasco- Pond to Casey 2 lane Undivided Arterial N/ A
Casey to Melcher 2 lane Undivided Arterial N/ A
Melcher to Albany 2 lane Undivided. Arterial N/ A
Albany to Lexington 4 lane Undivided. W/ Left Arterial 15,700C B
Lexington to Browning 4 lane Undivided Arterial 8,700C A
Browning to Driver 2 lane Undivided Arterial N/ A
Driver to Zachary 2 lane Undivided Arterial N/ A
11th Avenue Albany to Lexington 2 lane Undivided Collector 2,900E CF
Lexington to Randolph 2 lane Undivided Collector N/ A
9th Avenue Albany to Lexington 2 lane Undivided Collector 630A CF
Lexington to Browning 2 lane Undivided Collector 2,600E CF
Garces Highway Wasco- Pond to Casey 2 lane Undivided Arterial 1,300E A
Casey to Melcher 2 lane Undivided Arterial 1,300E A
Melcher to Albany 2 lane Undivided Arterial 910E A
Albany to LexingtonD 2 lane Undivided Arterial 10,800B C
Lexington to BrowningD 2 lane Undivided Arterial 9,100C C
Browning to Driver 2 lane Undivided Arterial 2,300B A
Driver to Zachary 2 lane Undivided Arterial 1,500B A
1st Avenue Dover Place to Ellington 2 lane Undivided Collector N/ A
Fremont to High 4 lane Undivided Collector N/ A
City of Delano
General Plan Update
December 2005
3- 16
Table 3- 3
EXISTING CIRCULATION SYSTEM
Street Segment Existing Geometrics Facility Existing Level of
Facility Median Type Volume Service
Woollomes Ave Albany to Lexington 2 lane Undivided Arterial 7,600E B
Randolph to Driver 2 lane Undivided Collector 630E CF
Driver to Zachary 2 lane Undivided Collector N/ A
Pond Road Wasco- Pond to Stradley 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 3,800E CF
Stradley to Lexington 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 4,000E CF
Lexington to Browning 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 1,800E CF
Browning to Driver 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 1,800E CF
Driver to Zachary 2 lane Undivided Unclassified 1,800E CF
Peterson Road Wasco- Pond to SR 99 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
SR 99 to Eastern Boundary 2 lane Undivided Unclassified N/ A
Notes:
A 1997 City count
B 1995 CalTrans Count Book
C 1998 ATE count
D 1998 ATE count data not yet available for these locations
E Estimated from Kern COG 1997 Model data
F LOS “ A” and “ B” not achievable. See explanation under Plan Section 2, Existing Traffic
Conditions.
G LOS “ B” not achievable. See explanation under Plan Section 2, Existing Traffic Conditions.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 17
Existing Classified System Pattern
The pattern and spacing of a community's street system are as important as the proper designation of
the functional classification of the streets. Arterial streets located approximately every mile with
collector streets located between the arterials at approximately half- mile intervals are ideal for
communities like Delano that have developed their circulation system based on the automobile.
This pattern accomplishes several goals. It balances the system by providing for mobility with arterials,
thus not committing the community to an over expenditure of resources. It provides for movement
within an area with collectors at half- mile intervals. It protects neighborhoods from through traffic by
isolating local streets and promoting through movements on collectors and arterials, which are
designed to accommodate these trips. Finally, it complements the Land Use Element by providing
locations along arterials and collectors for traffic generating activities. The following sections discuss
the relationship of Delano's existing street pattern to the pattern described above.
Regional access to the Delano area is directly provided from SR 99, which runs through the
downtown area. As previously identified, Albany Street, Browning Road, Cecil Avenue, Garces
Highway ( SR 155 east of SR 99), and SR 43 and 46 also provide regional access to the community.
Roadways providing regional access to Delano are either two lane undivided facilities which are
rural in nature or a four lane divided freeway.
One- mile spacing between the existing arterials is proving to be ideal for the type and intensity of
development in the community. Typical of rural cities in the Central Valley, Delano's collector street
system has not been fully developed. Overall, collector streets in Delano generally balance their
mobility and access functions adequately. In the core area of town, the collectors are through streets
such as 9th Avenue and 11th Avenue, which run through the central business district.
Connectivity
The success of a community's street system is greatly affected by the concept of connectivity.
Connectivity describes the continuity of a street system. Typically, street systems develop over a long
period of time and can develop missing links in the network. These missing links can create both local
and community wide problems as the traffic that would logically use the missing link must use another
street to complete a trip. Delano's street system has developed with some connectivity problems, which
center around the Union Pacific Railroad. The railroad bisects several streets between Cecil Avenue
and Garces Highway in the downtown area. The streets not providing connectivity due to the railroad
are 6th, 7th, 8th\, 9th, 10th, 12th and 14th Avenues.
Other than these downtown streets, Delano has developed its existing street system with excellent
connectivity. Most of the arterials are continuous within the community and the expansion of these
facilities to provide for future development can be accommodated.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 18
Truck Routes
The City of Delano does not have any designated truck routes within the City. At this time, trucks are
allowed on all street segments within the City. A truck parking ordinance is in effect which generally
identifies restricted overnight truck parking areas.
According to City staff, most of the trucking activity occurs at the east end of the City. Browning
and Randolph Avenues have an abundance of heavy truck traffic from the outlying County areas. In
addition, the SR 99/ Woollomes off ramp has a high level of truck activity.
Transportation System Management
Transportation System Management ( TSM) is defined as the use of various traffic and demand
management strategies to maximize the use and capacity of the existing transportation system. The
goal of transportation management is to use low cost solutions to congestion problems delaying the
need for large capital outlays. As traffic and parking demand continues to increase in Delano, TSM
strategies can be used to assist in mitigating the associated problems. Traditional transportation system
management strategies include, but are not limited to:
• the timing of traffic signals to more efficiently respond to traffic demand;
• the striping of existing streets to include exclusive turn lanes or additional through lanes to
maximize the carrying capacity of the street;
• the use of flexible work schedules to shift or lengthen the peak hour of travel;
• development of carpools and ridesharing programs to increase the number of people per vehicle;
and
• the use of public and private transit to reduce the number of vehicles using the streets during the
peak hour.
Goods Movement
The movement of goods and services is a primary function of any circulation system. The movement of
goods and services includes those into, through, and within the community. Delano is home to DLS,
the western hub of distribution for Sears. Currently, the primary goods and services moved in Delano
are related to the agriculture industry. Delano is one of the country’s primary producers of kiwi fruit,
table grapes, and a variety of other fruit crops. In addition to agriculture, light and heavy industries are
located in Delano and the surrounding County areas. Some of the major employers in the Delano area
that would require goods movement include:
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 19
Business Name Number of Employees
Pandol & Sons 1,500
North Kern State Prison 1,240
V. B. Zaninovich & Sons 1,000
Pavich & Sons 700
Superior Farming Co. 700
Anton Caratan & Sons 650
M. Caratan & Sons 650
Castle & Cooke 600
Delano Regional Medical Center 505
Lucich Farms 500
Skyline Ducor Ranch 500
Marco B. Zaninovich 500
Dan Tudor & Sons 500
Jasmine Vineyards 450
Delano Logistics Services 550
A. & N. Zaninovich 400
Paramount Citrus 300
Source: Delano Economic Development Department
The State Highways, County roads and City arterial streets are the primary facilities for moving
goods and services. Other modes providing for the movement of goods and services include
railroads and package express. The railroad provides for limited shipment of agricultural products
out of the community and the shipment of goods into the community. Package express service is
provided to Delano by most package express companies and the U. S. Post Office.
3.4.4 Transit
Public Transit
The City of Delano is currently served by a number of public transit programs. These programs
include a demand- response, a fixed route, County of Kern service, a medical van shuttle, and Social
Service Transportation transit programs. The demand- response or Dial- a- Ride ( DAR) service has been
operated by the City since 1988. Prior to 1988, the DAR service was privately operated by Gilbert
Transportation. The fixed route system was implemented by the City in 1995. The City’s transit
system provides service to the community within the City limits.
The existing fixed route transit system currently offers three bus routes. All routes begin at one central
point, the Delano Transit Center, 11th Avenue and Glenwood Street, adjacent to downtown Delano.
The Delano Area Rapid Transit ( DET) operates on 30- minute headways, with the starting and ending
location at the Delano Transit Center. Figure 3- 3 illustrates DET’s current service area boundaries and
existing route designations.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 20
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 21
The DET operates on a seven day service schedule. Service hours are as follows: Monday through
Friday from the hours of 7: 00AM to 6: 00PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 9: 00 AM to 5: 00 PM.
One- way fares for the fixed route service are 50 cents per person. Advance ticket purchases are
available for a reduced fare. Delano Express Transit services the local shopping, business areas,
medical centers and schools.
The Delano Dial- A- Ride ( DAR) service is based on a first come- first serve basis. Clients call the
transit center to schedule a pick up.
Overall, combined ridership for the Delano Express Transit and DAR service totaled
239,145 passengers during Fiscal Year 1996/ 1997. Of this total, the fixed route carried approximately
156,000 riders, the demand response carried an estimated 30,000 riders, and the remaining
30,000 riders were comprised of County and Social Services passenger trips. Annual operating costs
for Fiscal Year 1997/ 1998 were $ 682,944. Delano Transit fares totaled approximately $ 113,000 and
the remaining revenue of $ 530,624 came from a combination of state and federal transportation
funding sources. These funding sources include Transportation Development Act ( TDA) funds,
Federal Transit Administration ( FTA), Section 5311( f) Grants ( formerly known as Section 18), and
other state and federal funding.
Kern County Transit Service
The Delano Express Transit ( DET) has an agreement with the County of Kern to provide services
outside the Delano City boundary to County residents who live within the service area. The City is
reimbursed by the County for providing these services to County areas. The Kern County service area
is bounded by County Line Road on the north, Kyte Road on the east, Pond Road on the south, and SR
43 on the west.
Tulare County Transit Service
The County of Tulare has recently revised their routing system in the Delano region. As of August
1997, the County implemented additional routing services to the areas of Earlimart, Richgrove, and
Delano. Service to these areas will be available five days a week, with two service times a day
( morning and afternoon). Currently, the Earlimart, Richgrove, Delano route operates only two days a
week.
There are two stops located in the City of Delano. They are the Regional Medical Center, and the
Delano Ranch Market. Recently, service stops at the local KMART and Greyhound bus station have
been discontinued due to lack of demand.
The cost to ride the Tulare Transit system is $ 1.50 per person, per trip. Tokens are available for
seniors, free of charge. Children six years of age and under ride free of charge with an accompanying
adult. Figure 3- 4 displays the County of Tulare’s transit service area boundary.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 22
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 23
Private Transportation
Regional transportation service in the Central Valley is provided by Greyhound. Greyhound provides
access to Bakersfield and Southern California to the South and Fresno, Sacramento, and the Bay Area
to the North. Greyhound is the only private transportation organization that services the City of
Delano. The Greyhound station is located at High Street and 11th Avenue in central Delano.
Greyhound provides services through Delano two times a day.
Social Service
The City also offers a “ meals- on- wheels” program, which provides food to qualifying senior citizens,
as part of the State of California Nutrition Program.
Taxi Service
Currently, there are no private taxi companies operating in Delano. The City operates a Dial- A- Ride
system that works on a reservation basis. However, persons needing a ride may not always be
able to reserve the Dial- A- Ride vehicle when it is convenient for them due to previously made
reservations. Therefore, a taxi company may fill the gap in the demand responsive transit system that
currently exists.
3.4.5 Aviation
History/ Ownership
The Delano Municipal Airport is located in the southeast portion of the City of Delano,
approximately two miles from the downtown center. The airfield was built in the 1930s and was
originally operated as a County facility. In 1941 the airfield was used as an active air base and was
operated by the United States Government. After World War II, the County operated the site until
1972 when the airport was transferred to the City. The City has owned and operated the airport from
1972 to the present day.
Airport Classification
The Delano Municipal Airport is classified by the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems as a
General Utility - 1 facility. Operation of the airport is the responsibility of the airport manager, a City
employee. Figure 3- 5 displays the most recent Airport Master Plan. It is the City’s intent to maintain
an up- to- date Master Plan for the airport.
Existing Facilities
The airport currently houses single engine, twin engine, and helicopter operations. There are a number
of public and private hangers available, along with aircraft tie- down pads and shelters. Twenty- four
hour self- service aviation fuel is available on- site.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 24
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 25
There is currently one runway in operation. The main runway is approximately 5,560 feet long and
50 feet wide. A second restricted runway is in need of deferred maintenance and repairs and may be
shut down in the near future. The airport is equipped with AWDS III navigation and lighting facilities
and is open twenty- four hours a day. The airport currently operates on a non- precision instrument
approach method.
The City has an existing 1,500 square foot terminal building, which is located at the airport. The
building consists of a small office, pilot lounge, and waiting area. The airport also has a restaurant on-site.
In the past two years, the airport has undergone a variety of new construction projects as part of a
runway overlay program, which has allowed for better service. These projects totaled an estimated
$ 300,000 and included repair of existing ramps and other facilities, and the installation of reflectors on
taxiway lights.
The City is seeking Federal Aviation Administration ( FAA) funding as part of the Airport
Improvement Program ( AIP). The City has applied for $ 400,000 of grant funds for airport
improvements. The City desires to make improvements associated with updating the runway, such as
runway paving, implementation of a rotating beacon, and the installation of a new lighting system.
Based on future demand for aircraft services, the airport does have space available for expansion of the
existing airport operation. There are currently sixty ramp parking spaces available at the airport.
Existing Operations
Recently, there has been a decrease in crop dusting activity at the airport. The airport currently houses
the planes utilized for agricultural spraying. Mixing of the chemicals associated with said agricultural
spraying operation is now accomplished in the field, instead of on- site at the airport. One of the
reasons the airport has been able to support the existing aircraft stock is their competitive fuel prices.
The airport has shown an increase in itinerant business through the round- the- clock automated fueling
system. The airport does not currently offer air cargo services and has no plans to implement an air
cargo service within the next five years.
There are currently two fixed base operators located at the airport. These operations include private
maintenance/ repair and helicopter services. The City plans to construct a maintenance and repair
facility at the airport when funding is available.
Commercial Passenger Service
There is no commercial air service operating to and from Delano Municipal Airport. The closest
service is available at Meadows Field in Bakersfield, approximately 30 miles south of the City.
Meadows Field is operated by Kern County Airport, where Commercial service is provided. These
commuter airline shuttles provide linkages to the large urban areas of Southern California and the Bay
Area.
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 26
The Delano Municipal Airport has no plans to implement a commercial passenger service within the
next five years.
Airport Master Plan
In 1992, the City of Delano adopted an update to the Airport Master Plan. The Plan states that the
general objective of the Airport Master Plan is to “ prepare a long- range plan to guide development in
order to maintain the airport as a valued transportation facility for both Delano and those parts of the
surrounding area for which the Airport is the most convenient aviation facility.” Some of the principal
findings from the Plan are outlined as follows:
The City of Delano serves as an important economic center for Northern Kern County and Southern
Tulare County, providing major commercial and health care services for the surrounding communities
of Earlimart, Richgrove, McFarland, Wasco, Pond, Alpaugh and Pixley. Other major industries are
retail trade, professional services, and manufacturing, while agricultural employment accounts for over
one- third of the employment in Delano.
Population growth through the planning period is based on the City’s continuing economic
development marketing efforts and the impact of the new State Prison and the Return- to- Custody
facility. This new population segment will necessitate a substantial work force, as well as the
creation of ancillary businesses and industries. Additional population and employment opportunities
are anticipated by the relocation of businesses to the area.
The number of based aircraft at Delano Municipal Airport is forecast to increase from 49 in 1990 to 80
in 2010, with a larger percentage increase in multi- engine aircraft and helicopters than in single- engine
aircraft.
The number of annual aircraft operations at Delano Municipal Airport is forecast to gradually increase
over the planning period from 12,500 in 1990 to 38,000 by 2010. As airport operations expand and the
role of the airport evolves, the City will undertake updates of the Airport Master Plan to ensure that it is
up- to- date.
3.4.6 Rail
Existing Rail Service
Delano is currently served by the main line of Union Pacific Railroad, formerly the Southern Pacific
Railroad. The railroad runs essentially in a north- south direction, parallel to SR 99. There are
currently seven railroad crossings within the City as follows: Woollomes Avenue, First Avenue,
Garces Highway, 11th Avenue, 13th Avenue, Cecil Avenue, and County Line Road. It should be
noted that the rail line is situated adjacent to the City’s South Delano Industrial Park Area, allowing
for easy rail access to industrial sites. No changes have been made to the existing rail line since the
1982 Circulation Element. Additionally, there are no abandoned rail lines in the community.
The Union Pacific Railroad is the main freight train service in the Central Valley. Due to the vast
City of Delano December 2005
General Plan Update 3- 27
agricultural production in the region, the railroad is an essential transportation shipping mode.
Furthermore, cold storage facilities are located along the line allowing for quick service of local
agricultural commodities.
As mentioned above, there are a number of existing railroad crossings scattered throughout the City
limits. At certain times of the day, when a train is moving through the City, there are temporary
traffic congestion problems. The City is currently considering the construction of a grade separation
at either Cecil Avenue or Garces Highway to reduce traffic congestion when trains are present.
Passenger Rail Service
Delano is not currently served by AMTRAK passenger service. The closest station is in Wasco,
approximately 15 miles southeast of the City. Other AMTRAK stations are located in the nearby
communities of Corcoran and Bakersfield.
3.4.7 Bicycle and Pedestrian
Currently, the City of Delano does not have designated bicycle routes. Most of the bicycle activity
in Delano occurs around the schools by school children. Delano has one high school, one junior
high school, one middle school, and six elementary schools. A Draft Bicycle Plan was prepared for
the City in 1980, but has never been formally adopted. Approximately 12 miles of City streets were
proposed to be designated for bicycle use. Randolph Street, Eleventh Avenue, Lexington Street, and
Norwalk Street are all designated for bicycle use along with other local community streets. Due to
high volumes of traffic on the City’s arterial streets, bicycle travel is discouraged on these streets.
Updating and adopting the bicycle master plan is needed.
Pedestrian facilities in Delano are limited to sidewalks, crosswa