Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 07/24/2012 - EASTSIDE AND WESTSIDE NEIGHBORHOODS CHARACTER STUDDATE: July 24, 2012 STAFF: Pete Wray Clark Mapes Pre-taped staff presentation: available at fcgov.com/clerk/agendas.php WORK SESSION ITEM FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods Character Study. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY At the May 24, 2011 Work Session, City Council directed the Planning Department to formulate a project that takes a fresh look at neighborhood character and change in the core area neighborhoods near downtown. This direction was in response to citizens’ continued concerns about changes to the character of the neighborhoods related to demolitions and new construction. The new study is a more wide-ranging and in-depth inquiry about all of the various attributes that define character in different parts of the neighborhoods, and what citizens value. The new approach focuses on discussion and collaboration with people in the neighborhoods and other interested citizens. The approach is to proceed in three main phases, with each phase shaped by ideas that emerge along the way. The purpose of this work session item is to gain Council feedback on: (1) initial results from the first phase; and (2) proceeding to the next phase. GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED 1. What comments or direction does Council have for staff on proceeding to the second phase of the study? 2. What feedback does Council have about Phase 1 results to date? 3. What comments does Council have on the remaining process, or schedule? BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION History Council’s direction for a new analysis followed a 2010 study of similar issues. Consensus was not reached at that time as to how best address these issues, given the range of opinions about problems faced and possible strategies. Subsequently, an ad hoc committee consisting of Councilmembers Ben Manvel and Wade Troxell worked closely with staff throughout 2011 to set a goal and approach for the new study. The Committee developed a proposed Study Outline sent to the full City Council in November 2011. July 24, 2012 Page 2 Purpose and Approach Citizens in the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods continue to express concerns to City Council regarding changes that are occurring. City Council initiated this project to identify mutually agreeable solutions to retain and enhance the unique character and context of the neighborhoods as they continue to change with renovations, additions, and new housing construction. This new study incorporates all of the information and input collected in the previous study. Staff also selected Winter and Associates to assist a staff team with the project. Winter and Associates is an experienced planning firm, specializing in neighborhood character issues in older established neighborhoods. The new process is designed to offer several ways to engage citizens, with a more visual and more detailed approach to exploring physical character. The process is intended to be responsive to suggestions that may arise on how to effectively engage citizens. Attachment 2 is an updated Study Outline, with the overall intent, scope, process, and schedule. Three Study Phases The three phases of the Study reflect three main areas of inquiry to explore: 1. What are the attributes that define neighborhood character and context in different parts of the neighborhoods? This includes physical characteristics and citizens’ attitudes, values, concerns, and tolerance for change. 2. Do any of those attributes warrant strategies for new solutions to retain and enhance the positive aspects of neighborhood character and context as change occurs over time? 3. What tools, systems, or other initiatives are appropriate to implement the strategies? Phase 1: Better understand the character and context in different parts of the neighborhoods Major Phase 1 public engagement activities are complete as of July 15. An initial summary of results is provided in Attachment 3, Phase 1 Report; and Attachments 4-6, Online Questionnaire Results. July 24, 2012 Page 3 Phase 1 included the following activities: Online information: www.fcgov.com/eastwestneighborhoods April-Ongoing Assemble background materials, research and analysis April-July Emails to arrange focus group meetings (130 emails) Late May Convene three focus groups (38 participants) June 6 Mail letters to all owners and residents (5,579) June 29 Reminder emails to a subscription list (about 300 emails) July 2 Conduct an online questionnaire (about 280 responses) July 2-15 Conduct two community workshops (about 95 participants) July 10 & 12 City Council Work Session July 24 Related phone calls and emails April-Ongoing PHASE 1 REPORT ON UNDERSTANDING CHARACTER AND CONTEXT Key Points from Preliminary Phase 1 Results (Attachment 3). Following are staff’s most important observations on Phase 1. • There are widely differing attitudes and opinions among participants, but staff and the consulting team believe there are clearly enough citizen comments on issues and concerns to indicate that further research and discussions need to occur. In other words, staff recommends that the study should continue to Phase 2. • It appears there are many citizens opposed to any new regulation, and some would prefer to stop the process now to prevent new regulations. Staff believes stopping would leave many unanswered issues and unexplored ideas and viewpoints, from a majority of participants to date, that need to be addressed in further work. • It appears that, for many, addressing the issues in more focused ways to deal with particular, limited situations may help address their concerns. NEXT STEPS IN PROCESS Phase 2: Develop strategies to address issues identified in Phase 1. (August – November) Based on Phase 1 results and Council direction, Phase 2 will develop an illustrated strategy paper outlining potential alternative tools or systems to be considered, and recommending specific measures that may then be refined to be considered for adoption. Possible examples include Codes, development review procedures, and neighborhood education/informational programs to promote better communication among affected parties. Strategies may apply to certain areas or limited situations as appropriate. Attachment 2 describes Phase 2 further. July 24, 2012 Page 4 Phase 3: Develop and refine tools, systems, and actions, and present for adoption by City Council (October, 2012 – February, 2013) Depending on Phase 2 results and Council direction, Phase 3 of the project will produce materials needed for Council consideration to implement the strategies based on City Council direction. Attachment 2 describes Phase 3 further. ATTACHMENTS 1. Study Area Map 2. Study Outline 3. Phase 1 Report 4. Online Questionnaire Results, Property Owners 5. Online Questionnaire Results, Tenants 6. Online Questionnaire Results, Interested Citizens 7. Powerpoint presentation 8. Work Session summary, May 24, 2011 ÕZYXW ³I Sheldon Lake Cache La Poudre River S SHIELDS ST LAPORTE AVE S COLLEGE AVE REMINGTON ST W MULBERRY ST W PROSPECT RD S LEMAY AVE E VINE DR STOVER ST W MOUNTAIN AVE W LAKE ST E PITKIN ST CHERRY ST N SHIELDS ST W VINE DR E STUART ST W LAUREL ST N COLLEGE AVE E ELIZABETH ST RIVERSIDE AVE E LAUREL ST W STUART ST E PROSPECT RD LINDEN ST W ELIZABETH ST 9TH ST S MASON ST S HOWES ST CONIFER ST W PLUM ST E LINCOLN AVE S LOOMIS AVE BUCKINGHAM ST N LEMAY AVE R ED W O OD ST CENTR E A V E CONSTITUTION AVE N MASON ST N HOWES ST JEROME ST E MOUNTAIN AVE SPRING PARK DR STOVER ST 0 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 Miles 1:24,000 © EastsideCollins & Westside City Neighborhoods of Fort Character Study Area Scale Planning Division 281 N. College Ave P.O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80522 970.221.6376 970.224.6111 - fax fcgov.com Eastside & Westside Neighborhoods Character Study Study Outline Revised July 13, 2012 Introduction In 2011 City Council directed the Planning Department to take a fresh look at neighborhood compatibility and character issues in the core area neighborhoods near Downtown in response to concerns with potential impacts of additions and new construction in the city’s oldest neighborhoods. While the previous 2010 effort led to a primary focus on building size aspects, this new 2012 study will emphasize a broader perspective to understand the character, larger context of compatibility, and threshold for change in these neighborhoods. A Council Ad Hoc Committee provided further direction on this new effort in identifying an overall goal and approach, and objectives that are included in this outline. Goal of Study: Retain and enhance the unique character and context of the neighborhoods as they continue to change with renovations, additions, and new housing construction, with a well- supported and effective public process resulting in appropriate and mutually agreeable solutions. General Approach There are three main areas of inquiry need to be explored. First, what are the attributes that define neighborhood character and context? Second, which of those attributes warrant new solutions, to retain and enhance the positive aspects of neighborhood character and context? And third, what tools and systems are appropriate as solutions to retain and enhance neighborhood character and context, as change occurs over time? Initial steps in this study process are important. They include defining the goal and putting together a targeted community engagement process to obtain effective participation from diverse stakeholders. A key expectation is that any actions or initiatives will be based on thorough understanding of neighborhood characteristics, including physical facts and dynamic aspects such as past and future changes, value and importance to the city, cycles and transitions in the role of the neighborhoods as part of the city’s housing stock, the history and role of change, likely future changes, attitudes, market factors, and social aspects, all supported by data. Another key expectation is that the understanding of the neighborhoods, and any solutions, will be tailored to different parts of the neighborhoods, rather than being “one size fits all” for whole zoning districts. ATTACHMENT 2 Study Outline Page 2 Revised July 13, 2012 Issues and Context The overarching general issue is the need to find ways to support the goal with positive solutions that make it easier to for owners, designers, and builders to design and build projects that fit the goal, and thus have broad support. The search for such solutions is challenging, because the goal typically involves limits, parameters, or regulations, which are typically perceived by some as obstacles to design and construction projects. Part of the context that creates specific issues is the current zoning, with its development standards, in the Land Use Code. For example:  Land Use Code standards implement adopted neighborhood conservation and compatibility policies to only a rudimentary degree.  Some citizens have concerns that current regulations allow infill and redevelopment projects to introduce inappropriate, incompatible change that negatively affects existing residents and the unique character and context of different parts of the neighborhoods.  These citizen concerns are more numerous and detailed than the topics currently addressed in Land Use Code requirements. Examples of these concerns are: size of new construction, placement of building mass on the lot, shading, looming, loss of privacy, diminished affordability, lost role of existing small houses in the social fabric, disruption of established patterns of houses, windows, and yards, and loss of historic character, all of which can significantly change the “feel” of certain neighborhood areas. These concerns are interrelated as aspects of the overall design of infill and redevelopment. Another part of the context that creates specific issues is the potential for unintended consequences of any new zoning regulations or other limits, on construction activity. For example:  Some citizens have concerns that increasing requirements or limits for infill and redevelopment projects could hinder reinvestment in lots that have outdated houses, resulting in loss of revitalization that comes with reinvestment in renovation and larger new construction.  These citizen concerns reflect a basic viewpoint that eclectic variety and change over time are primary defining characteristics of the neighborhoods; that the degree of change currently allowed is acceptable; and that this change includes benefits that offset the impacts of change. Study Outline Page 3 Revised July 13, 2012  These concerns also reflect a viewpoint that individual housing consumers, builders, and designers should determine the size and design of renovations, additions, and new houses, to best meet consumers’ needs and desires, with minimal or no additional public interference. Objectives  Define and understand a complete range of characteristics of the neighborhoods, as a basis for any new initiatives to achieve the goal. Recognize differences in the characteristics of different portions of the neighborhoods.  Use data to define the characteristics of the neighborhoods.  Create a vocabulary to articulate the characteristics, and to articulate appropriate types of change, and appropriate limits on change.  Conduct a community involvement process for residents and other stakeholders to evaluate whether any characteristics warrant new solutions to help retain and enhance them.  Continue the process noted above to derive solutions from the desires of residents, the Planning and Zoning Board, and the Landmark Preservation Commission, resulting in buy-in and informed consent.  Include necessary funding or staffing resources in any solutions.  Include testing and monitoring of any actions to evaluate objective results for effectiveness and consequences. Study Process Phase I – Understand the Character and Context in Neighborhoods July - December 2011  Set goal, objectives, and issues and context to be addressed (Council Ad Hoc Committee)  Set a work program, schedule and budget  Confirm consultant scope and deliverables  Identify an appropriate and effective public involvement process January – March 2012  Select Consultant Team  Finalize consultant scope of work and budget  Identify funding  Identify staff technical team  Background data assessment Study Outline Page 4 Revised July 13, 2012 April – July 2012  Introduce study to neighborhoods  Review how other communities have addressed similar issues  Identify and understand different character areas of neighborhoods  Build a useful base of data on characteristics including physical, economic, and social/attitudinal factors to inform a whole system dynamics perspective  Review system of regulations and existing conditions  Model existing context and effects of existing codes  Administer neighborhood questionnaire  Neighborhood focus group meetings  Neighborhood workshop meetings  Council Work Session (July 24) Phase II – Develop a Strategy August – November 2012  Update the public engagement process based on Phase 1 information  Visual character questionnaire  Focus group meetings, public deliberation forums, tours  Produce preliminary draft of strategy paper with a range of possible solutions  Conduct economic analysis  Neighborhood workshops  Discussion with Boards and Commissions  Develop final strategy paper  Council Work Session (November 27) Phase III – Develop Tools and Systems to Implement the Strategy October 2012–February 2013  Develop preliminary list of tools and systems as potential solutions to implement the strategy. Examples of different types of solutions include Code regulations, education and design assistance, incentives, design and development review process improvements, and other solutions that may emerge (October - December, 2012)  Focus group meetings  Develop staff recommendations  Public open house meeting (January, 2013)  Review/recommendations from Boards and Commissions (January, 2013)  City Council consideration of recommendations (February, 2013) 1 Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods Character Study Phase 1 Report: Observations on Character and Context in the Neighborhoods July 18, 2012 Introduction The Eastside and Westside Neighborhood Character study seeks to evaluate neigh- borhood character and change in the core area neighborhoods near Downtown. The study was initiated primarily in response to resident concern about changes to the character of the neighborhoods related to demolition and new construction. The information from the 2010 East and West Side Neighborhoods Design Standards Study provided part of the foundation for the current study. The Phase 1 work effort had two primary components: • Background research and analysis by City staff and project consultants on existing development patterns and trends • Community engagement Phase 1 of the new study is now complete. It included an evaluation of the values, attitudes, concerns, and tolerance for change among citizens in the neighbor- hoods and others with an interest. This report summarizes Phase 1 results to support a discussion of potential future project phases. Report Contents Introduction ................................................. 1 Neighborhood Profile ................................... 3 General Character ...........................................3 Development Patterns .....................................5 Existing Regulations Summary ......................10 Recent Trends ............................................ 13 Overview of Recent Trends ...........................13 Community Comments ............................... 15 Preliminary Focus Groups .............................15 Neighborhood Workshops ............................18 Neighborhood Questionnaire ........................24 Observations and Themes .......................... 27 Common Themes .........................................27 Issues and Concerns .....................................30 Next Steps ................................................. 31 ATTACHMENT 3 2 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Community Engagement Phase 1 emphasized public engagement to provide a sense of citizen attitudes, opinions and concerns. Four primary methods were used: • Focus groups organized by area of interest, with one for representatives of building, design and real estate industries and two for neighborhood residents • Community Workshops with structured activi- ties for participants to work in groups, as well as opportunities to record individual opinions. These were intended to collect more specific information about neighborhood character and issues. • Questionnaires provided online with individual portals targeted for property owners, tenants and the general public • Web page on the City's site with general project information, community outreach notices, sign-up for project notification and links to the general public questionnaire 3 Neighborhood Existing conditions in the Eastside Profile and Westside neighborhoods include physical and qualitative features, regulatory characteristics and current development trends. These conditions help to shape development and may influence its perceived com- patibility. Existing conditions also provide important background for further focused study of the neighborhood. General Character Community Neighborhood Identified Features As part of the project’s community en- gagement process, members of the community were asked to identify and describe a series of features which make the neighborhood unique and desirable to live in. Feedback from residents was largely consistent and included both physical and social characteristics. The most common traits participants described include friendly neighbors, diversity in people and buildings, and walkability. The following sections summarize the most commonly identi- fied qualitative and physical neighbor- hood features of value to residents. Valued qualitative aspects of neighbor- hood character include: • Old charm and character of houses • Friendly/neighborly sense of community • Family/kid-friendly • Modest homes • Socioeconomic diversity • Evident pride of ownership • Diversity in ownership patterns • One of a limited number of neigh- borhoods in town that does not have an HOA 4 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Valued physical aspects of neighborhood character include: • Historic character and homes • Integrity within blocks • Wide streets • Detached sidewalks • Variety in lot types • Alleys • Front porches • Views through lots • Not all fenced • Trees • Relative low density • Diversity of house style, age and scale • Uniqueness of character among Fort Collins neigh- borhoods • Less car-oriented design • Orientation towards neighbors • Houses designed with sustainability aspects built into them already (prior to car and air conditioning design) • Walkability and bikability • Proximity to amenities (including parks, schools, playgrounds, Old Town, trolley, CSU etc.) Neighborhood Profile 5 Eastside and Westside Character Study Development Patterns A series of computer models illustrate the typical existing development patterns throughout the neighborhoods. These context models can be used to illustrate existing characteristics of the neighborhood, as well as to test infill models within each context to help understand the elements of new construction which contribute to neighborhood compatibility. A total of four contexts were selected as representative of the range of conditions found across the neighborhoods. Two models were created for each the Eastside and Westside, however, conditions found in one area are often representative of those found in several others. The contexts were selected based on the following factors: • Lot size • Lot configuration (orientation, frontage, shape, etc.) • Street patterns • Alley patterns • Lot coverage • FAR (Floor Area Ratio) • Building age • Building size • Building height Within the Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods a high level of diversity of lot and building sizes, shapes and patterns exists. 6 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Context A Context A is representative of conditions which occur in a series of blocks through- out much of the Westside neighborhood. The context is also representative of several blocks on the Eastside. This context contains a high level of variety in lot size, lot frontage, lot coverage, building height, building age and floor area ratios (FAR). Lots in the area are predominantly oriented east-west. The area has distinctive, tight H-shaped alleys and simple north-south alleys. Neighborhood Profile 7 Eastside and Westside Character Study Context B This area includes one section of Mountain Avenue and vicinity. In this context lots are typically larger, while at the same time they have narrower frontages. Here the typical house size is also higher than other areas, as is building height. A range of FARs is also present. The area selected is the most representative of the conditions found along Mountain Avenue, and includes all of the most common lot configura- tions along the street as well. The area has both simple east-west alleys as well as the distinctive, wide H-shaped alleys found in many areas of both neighborhoods. Lots in the area are oriented north-south, with east-west lots inside the H of the alleys. 8 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Context C This area is representative of the majority of the Eastside neighborhood, covering most of the central and northern areas, as well as a few areas on the Westside. It represents the “average” Eastside conditions in terms of lot size, lot frontage, lot coverage, building height, FAR, building age and remodel date. Lots in the area are predominantly oriented east-west, with streets and alleys running north-south. Neighborhood Profile 9 Eastside and Westside Character Study Context D This area represents the 1940s and 1950s subdivisions found in several areas of both the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods. Wider lots are more typical here, and there is a high percentage of remodels. The area includes a full range of lot coverages and sizes, with houses predominately one story in height. Street patterns include cul-de- sacs and curvilinear layouts, with no alleys. 10 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Existing Regulations Summary The zoning code establishes the basic use and dimensional requirements for additions and new construction in the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods. There are two zone districts within the study area, the Neighborhood Conservation Low Density (NCL) and the Neighborhood Conservation Medium Density (NCM). Neighborhood Conservation Low Density (NCL) Buildable Area The transparent blue “building envelope,” illustrated on the example lot below, is the area of a lot in which it is permissible to build. Additional regulations will then limit the size and type of structures allowed within the envelope. The buildable area of a lot in the NCL is determined by its setbacks. Existing regulations that shape the building envelope in the NCL zone district include: A Min. front setback: 15’ (20’ for a garage) B Min. side setback: 5’ plus 1’ for every 2’ of height over 18’ C Min. rear setback: 5’ (15’ if no alley) Building Mass and Form The size and form of a building within the NCL building envelope is regulated by the following tools: Max. FAR: 0.40 (Total square footage limited to 40% of lot area) Max. rear FAR: Square footage in rear half of the lot limited to 12.5% of total lot area D Required entry feature: Porch, landing or portico E Max. roof pitch: 12:12 (shown), min. 2:12 F Max. height: 2 stories Accessory Buildings There is no limit on the number of accessory buildings allowed in the NCL district beyond the total allowable FAR. Accessory dwellings are allowed by administrative review in the NCL district, and are also not limited in number. G Max. accessory building height: 1.5 stories or 24' (20' if not habitable), with a max. roof eave height 13’ C A B B Neighborhood Profile 11 Eastside and Westside Character Study Sample One-Story NCL Building Form Sample Two-Story NCL Building Form This basic two-story form illustrates one possible configuration for a house that maximizes the building area permitted within the NCL building envelope on the sample lot. D E F This basic one-story form, with accessory struc- ture, illustrates another possible configuration for a house that maximizes the building area permitted within the NCL building envelope on the sample lot. D E G F Neighborhood Conservation Medium Density (NCM) Buildable Area The transparent blue “building envelope,” illustrated on the example lot below, is the area of a lot in which it is permissible to build. Additional regulations will then limit the size and type of structures allowed within the envelope. The buildable area of a lot in the NCM zone is determined by its setbacks. Existing regulations that shape the building envelope in the NCM zone district include: A Min. front setback: 15’ (20’ for a garage) B Min. side setback: 5’ plus 1’ for every 2’ of height over 18’ C Min. rear setback: 5’ (15’ if no alley) C A B B 12 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Building Mass and Form The size and form of a building within the NCM building envelope is regulated by the following tools: Max. FAR: 0.50 (Total square footage limited to 50% of lot area) Max. rear FAR: Square footage in rear half of the lot limited to 16.7% of total lot area D Required entry feature: Porch, landing or portico E Max. roof pitch: 12:12 (shown), min. 2:12 F Max. height: 2 stories Accessory Buildings There is no limit on the number of accessory buildings allowed in the NCL district beyond the total allowable FAR. Accessory dwellings are allowed by administrative review in the NCM district, and are also not limited in number. G Max. accessory building height: 1.5 stories or 24' (20' if not habitable), with a max. roof eave height 13’ Sample One-Story NCM Building Form Sample Two-Story NCM Building Form This basic two-story form illustrates one possible configuration for a house that maximizes the building area permitted within the NCM building envelope on the sample lot. This basic one-story form, with accessory struc- ture, illustrates another possible configuration for a house that maximizes the building area permitted within the NCM building envelope on the sample lot. D E G F D E F 13 Recent Across the country Trends many established residential neighborhoods have been experi- encing significant changes after years of relative stability. Over the last fifteen years residents began to notice changes in their neighborhoods such as increased house size and height on additions and new construction. Such changes are indicative of current market trends in which established neighborhoods are becoming more desirable places to live. In some cases, such changes were seen as exciting oppor- tunities. In other cases, residents worried that inappropriate changes could ruin the character of their neighborhood. Overview Trends of Recent The Eastside and Westside Neighbor- hoods have been experiencing similar changes to many other established resi- dential neighborhoods nationwide. In the Eastside and Westside these trends have taken several forms. The majority of the activity in the neighborhoods has been demolition and new construction, with replacement structures being signifi- cantly larger than the demolished homes. Secondly, many homes are building additions of substantial size relative to the existing structure. Location Projects and Scale of Recent construction activity is occurring on a variety of lot types throughout both the Eastside and Westside neighbor- hoods. However, the majority of activity, 72% of all projects, is occurring in the Westside neighborhood. The Westside also has a higher percent- age of new buildings occurring compared to the Eastside. Of the recent activity in the Westside, 7% is new home construc- tion and 92% remodels, where only 3% of activity on the Eastside is new home con- struction, and 98% is remodels. Development Trends Summary Westside Neighborhood New Homes 7% Construction Activity FAR 0.17-0.50 (avg. 0.32) Square footage 1,465-3,653 s.f. (avg. 2,376 s.f.) Additions 93% Construction Activity Eastside Neighborhood New Homes 2% Construction Activity FAR 0.17-0.50 (avg. 0.32) Square footage 780-2,340 s.f. (avg. 1,530 s.f.) Additions 98% Construction Activity 14 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study The new construction projects in the Westside are also of a larger scale than those occurring in the Eastside. New construction in the Westside ranges from 1,465 s.f. - 3,653 s.f. with an average size of 2,376 s.f., and the FAR varies between 0.17 to 0.50 with an average of 0.32. New construction in the Eastside ranges from 780s.f. – 2,340 s.f.. with an average size of 1,530 s.f., and the FAR varies between 0.2 – 0.26 with an average of 0.22. The new homes built in the Westside neighborhood are of a larger scale than those in the Eastside. Special Conditions Community feedback and data on recent construction is being analyzed to help determine if activity that is of concern is occurring in limited circumstances, or more universally across the neighborhoods. Due to the diversity of lot sizes, shapes and patterns within the neighborhoods, many distinct conditions occur which allow for building conditions with unique considerations. These unique lot conditions could be a factor in concerns over new construction. The following describes two of the more frequent of the special conditions. Subdivideable Lots The subdivision of lots was mentioned in the community feedback as a potential area of concern. Based on the minimum lot frontage and parcel sizes required, approxi- mately 5% of lots on the Eastside and 3% of lots of the Westside could subdivide. Large Lots in Predominantly Small-lot Blocks Due to the variety of lot and alley forms in the neighborhoods there are several areas where significantly larger lots occur on a block of predominately smaller lots. About 3% of the lots in both the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods are significantly larger (at least 3,000 s.f. greater) than most others on their block. 15 Community Neighborhood residents, owners, Comments and other interested citizens provided a substan- tial body of comments and feedback on key topics. Preliminary focus groups, an online questionnaire, and neighborhood workshops provided the main channels for engagement. Notes from each opportunity for engagement are summarized below, followed by overall “Observations and Themes” from all activities. Preliminary Focus Groups On June 14, 2012 the City hosted three preliminary focus group meetings for the purpose of providing feedback and advice to the study team. The meetings were provided for a sampling of: 1. Industry professionals in real estate, construction, or architecture who have worked in the neighborhoods 2. Eastside residents 3. Westside residents There was no deliberation, and the outcome was simply for the study team to gain additional perspective as the project was being launched publicly. At each session, City staff provided a general introduc- tion and project consultants facilitated meeting dis- cussion. Participants each simply answered several questions. Many focus group participants indicated that the meeting format supported useful dialogue, and expressed desire to participate in future meetings with a similar format. However, some participants indicated that future sessions should include a wider range of viewpoints to begin a process of deliberation and conflict resolution. Each focus group session is briefly summarized on the following pages. 16 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Builders and Realtors Focus Group This meeting included a total of nine builders, realtors, and architects, including a representative from the Fort Collins Board of Realtors. Participants answered four key questions posed by the consultant team: • What types of neighborhoods are your customers looking for, and why? • What features are your customers looking for in a new or existing home? • Have you encountered issues when working in the city’s established neighborhoods? • How can we ensure active participation from a variety of stakeholders? A key theme was that the neighborhoods are highly successful in the market, with some of the highest values and shortest times on the market for sellers. This is related to concerns that any new regulations or re- quirements for construction would negatively affect the market and unduly limit owners’ flexibility. Additional points included: • Old Town neighborhoods are highly desirable. • The market for Old Town properties has significantly outperformed the market in more suburban areas. • Buyers seek pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with a sense of community and architectural diversity. • Buyers most often seek 1,500 to 2,200 square foot homes with two to three bedrooms. • Most buyers do not want to be subject to restric- tive homeowner's association rules. • The complexity of current regulations is an issue for clients. • Current floor area ratio standards for the rear half of lots are overly restrictive on shallow lots in some parts of the neighborhood. • The 2010 NCL and NCM zoning ordinance would have created a high level of non-conforming struc- tures. • In some cases, residents may not be sufficiently informed when demolition or new construction projects are proposed. • Outreach should include the entire community rather than just neighborhood residents. Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods Character Study Builders & Realtors Focus Group Meeting Objectives: To introduce the project, discuss differences with previous planning efforts, discuss market trends, better understand builder and realtor concerns and identify the best ways to engage a range of stakeholders. Agenda Project Introduction 10 Minutes Question & Answer 10 Minutes Discussion 1 Hour • What types of neighborhoods are your customers looking for, and why? • What features are your customers looking for in a new or existing home? • Have you encountered issues when working in the city’s established Community Comments 17 Eastside and Westside Character Study Neighborhood Focus Groups Two meetings of residents were held for Eastside and Westside areas respectively. 15 Eastside residents and 14 Westside residents participated in the groups. Par- ticipants answered four key questions: • What are some key assets of your neighborhood? • Do you have any concerns, or do you see specific benefits, with the types of changes occurring in your neighborhood? • What information do you need to make informed decisions about the future of your neighborhood? • How can we ensure active community engagement? Key themes revolved around the neighborhoods as great places to live with a strong sense of community. One theme was concern with some new construction negative- ly impacting neighborhood character and quality of life. However, questions also arose regarding the appropriate- ness of limiting owner's choices, given the degree of sub- jectivity in what is compatible. Another theme was appre- ciation for the effort to convene the meetings and interest in additional meetings to delve further into issues. Other notable points included: • Skepticism that the current study would lead to meaningful changes considering the outcome of past planning efforts • Concern that organized economic interests inher- ently have more power than residents • Feeling that much renovation and new construction has been positive • Concern with potential size, volume, height and privacy impacts of some new construction • Concern with potential for HOA-style regula- tions addressing architectural style, color or other design details • Concern that current allowance for significantly larger houses may drive demolition pressure • Interest in access to information about changes occurring in the neighborhoods (ability to see proposed plans on the City's website, etc.) • Interest in additional dialogue regarding changes occurring in the neighborhoods (meetings to discuss new construction, etc.) • Interest in grassroots neighborhood meetings • Interest in information about potential design tools and strategies used by other communities Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods Character Study Neighborhood Focus Group Meeting Objectives: To introduce the project, discuss differences with previous planning efforts, gain insight into neighborhood concerns and identify the best ways to engage neighborhood residents. Agenda Project Introduction 10 Minutes Question & Answer 10 Minutes Discussion 1 Hour • What are some key assets of your neighborhood? • Do you have any concerns, or do you see specific benefits with the types of 18 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Neighborhood Workshops On July 10 and 12, the City hosted neighborhood workshops to introduce the project, explore neighbor- hood character, explore aspects of design that affect compatibility of new construction, and consider current regulations. Two workshops were conducted in the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods respectively, with a total attendance of about 95 participants. An invita- tion letter was mailed to all owners and residents in the study area. Participants were also invited via email and the City's website. Each neighborhood workshop began with a visual presentation by the project consultants. The presentation addressed: • The planning process • Existing context • Development trends • Existing regulations • Potential tools to address neighborhood character • Design alternatives • Aspects of design Workshop participants then completed four activities in teams of four to eight participants. At the conclusion of the workshops, participants from each team presented their activity results. Key comments and themes from each workshop are summarized on the next page, followed by a summary of the results from each of the workshop activities. Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods Character Study Neighborhood Workshop Meeting Objectives: To introduce the project, review neighborhood character, discuss neighborhood objectives and evaluate design alternatives for new construction Agenda Project Introduction 6:00 Presentation • The planning process • Existing context • Development trends • Existing regulations • Potential tools to address neighborhood character • Design alternatives • Introduction to the workshop activities 6:10 Team Activity #1: Existing Conditions • What are some key neighborhood assets? • Identify three distinct neighborhood areas • What are some changes occurring in these areas? 6:40 Team Activity #2: Design Features • What design elements contribute to neighborhood compatibility? 7:00 Team Activity #3: Design Alternatives • Which new construction designs are most compatible? 7:20 Team Activity #4: Existing Regulations • Do you have comments on existing regulations? 8:00 Team Reports 8:15 For more information, visit the project Web site at Community Comments 19 Eastside and Westside Character Study Eastside Neighborhood Workshop About 30 participants attended the Eastside workshop at Laurel Elementary School on July 10. Many partici- pants expressed a desire to find tools to protect specific elements of neighborhood character while also preserv- ing design flexibility for owners and preserving neigh- borhood affordability. Additional themes in the discus- sion included: • Participants often cited the mature tree canopy as a key neighborhood asset • Participants generally agreed on the key features of new development that influence neighborhood character and compatibility. • Participants generally agreed that compatible building massing would help new construction fit into the neighborhood. • Some participants stated that even though the activities identified aspects of design that help buildings fit in, they felt that the potential for in- compatible development was exaggerated. Note that additional participant feedback is provided in "Workshop Activities" beginning on page 20. Westside Neighborhood Workshop About 65 participants attended the Westside workshop at Putnam Elementary School on July 12. Many partici- pants expressed an interest in preserving the design diversity of the neighborhood while ensuring that new construction does not have negative impacts on neigh- borhood character. Additional themes in the discussion included: • Participants often cited City Park, historic homes, alleys and Beaver's Market key neighborhood assets. • Some participants expressed interest in tools to support neighborhood consultation and dialogue. • Some participants indicated that any tools to address neighborhood character should be highly context sensitive (including consideration of adjacent properties. Note that additional participant feedback is provided in "Workshop Activities" beginning on page 20. Preliminary Observations Many workshop participants expressed general consen- sus on neighborhood assets, objectives and potential con- cerns. However, they often ex- pressed a diversity of opinion on possible future strategies or actions. See "Observations and Themes" on page 27 for additional information. 20 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Workshop Activities Participants at each neighborhood workshop completed four team activities designed to stimulate discussion and generate feedback on neighborhood assets, existing context, compatible design features, and existing regulations. Teams spent about 30 minutes completing each activity. An individ- ual worksheet was also available for participants to provide comments apart from the team activities. Activity #1: Existing Conditions This was a two-part activity. Participants first identi- fied and listed existing neighborhood assets. They then identified different subareas or "contexts" within their neighborhood. In the first part of the activity, commonly cited assets included: • Diversity of house size, design and resident income • Lack of architectural or other HOA-type restrictions • Proximity to Downtown • Walkability and bicycle access • Wide streets • Mature tree canopy and landscaping In the second part of the activity, participants marked neighborhood contexts, unique subareas and specific concerns on a poster map of the Eastside or Westside. Common map themes included: • Identification of subareas anchored by community resources such as schools and parks • Identification of neighborhood contexts differentiat- ed by street layout, building age, ownership patterns, or level of renovation and new construction Unique contexts identified by Eastside residents included: • Area near Riverside Avenue (noise/visual impacts as- sociated with adjacent commercial and industrial areas) • Circle Drive neighborhood • Centennial High School park area Unique contexts identified by Westside residents included: • Area of similar houses on Pearl Street between Laporte and West Mountain • Areas of "oversized construction" in the northeast- ern part of the neighborhood • Bungalow streets with limited setbacks Participants marked neighbor- hood contexts, unique subareas and specific concerns on an aerial map of the Eastside or Westside neighborhood. Preliminary Observations While workshop participants often cited features that are common to the neighbor- hoods, they also identified many unique areas and con- texts. This may suggest that future strategies should take specific contextual consider- ations into account. See "Ob- servations and Themes" on Community Comments 21 Eastside and Westside Character Study Activity #2: Design Features In this activity, participants cut, pasted and captioned photographs of neighborhood houses and streetscapes to identify design features of homes that fit with their neighborhoods. Participants identified features that are characteristic of a compatible "Old Town" home, including: • Front porches and general street presence • Front yard trees • Small scale • Larger structures with varied massing Participants identified features that are generally out of character with the Eastside and Westside, including: • Facades dominated by garage doors or parking areas • Houses that appear to be significantly more massive than the structures around them In many cases, participants also indicated that context influences the appropriateness of design features. They identified features that could be appropriate in some, but not all, areas of the neighborhoods, including: • Visible garage doors or parking areas • Very large homes • Ultramodern designs using contemporary materials • Especially large or small front yard areas Participants used photographs of traditional neighborhoods and new construction to identify design features that help make properties compatible with their neighborhoods. Photographs illustrating gener- ous front porches and exist- ing small scale character were among those most often selected as illustrating appropriate de- sign features. 22 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Activity #3: Design Alternatives In this activity, participants reviewed a variety of hy- pothetical new construction designs on a sample lot in one of five neighborhood contexts. Participants indicated whether they felt that each design was compatible with its surrounding context and identified any illustrated design features that helped promote compatibility. Each context was illustrated with a three dimensional computer model of existing conditions in a three to four block area of the Eastside or Westside neighborhoods. New construction designs on the sample lot in each context il- lustrated a number of variables, including height, lot coverage (the percent of the lot covered by buildings), building square footage and wall length/articulation. Understanding which design variables contribute most to neighborhood compatibility will help determine how new construction can best fit into a variety of neighbor- hood contexts. Participants identified a number of design features that could help reduce the perceived mass and scale of new construction and help it fit in with its surrounding context. Identified features included: • One-story elements along the side of a two story house where the context is one story • One-story element in front • Side wall offsets • Traditional roof pitch • Ridge line offsets • Consistent spacing, rhythm of buildings along the block Participants also identified concerns, including: • The proportion of a building to the size of its lot • Large, boxy building masses that are out of character with their surrounding context • Wall height, in relation to closeness of side yard set back • Loss of solar access for properties to the north Participants reviewed a variety of hypothetical new construction designs on a sample lot in one of five neighborhood contexts. Participants identified a number of design features that could help reduce the perceived mass and scale of new construction and help it fit in with its surrounding context, including front porches, dormers, varied rooflines, one- story elements and side wall offsets. Community Comments 23 Eastside and Westside Character Study Activity #4: Existing Regulations In this activity, participants reviewed and provided comments on the zoning regulations that currently apply to new construction in the Eastside and Westside. Existing zoning regulations in the Neighborhood Con- servation Low Density (NCL) and Neighborhood Con- servation Medium Density (NCM) zone districts were illustrated on a graphic poster. See "Existing Regulations Summary" on page 10 for more information. Participants identified a number of concerns, including: • Concern that additional regulations could limit design flexibility and produce higher costs • Concern that existing regulations do not adequately address context or promote neighborhood dialogue • Concern that structures built on raised grade may tower over neighbors based on the existing height measurement system • Concern with ease of obtaining height and setback variances Individual Worksheet In addition to the four formal team activities, an in- dividual worksheet was provided for workshop par- ticipants to submit optional comments and feedback related to the project. In addition to space for general comments, the worksheet included several of the same questions as the online questionnaire summarized on the next page. About a third of participants at each workshop completed an individual worksheet. All indicated that they were property owners in the neighborhoods. Key themes in the worksheet responses include: • Many participants indicated that there are both benefits and concerns associated with changes in the neighborhoods, including benefits associated with larger houses for new families and concerns with loss of green space and solar access • Most participants (74%) felt that there is an issue with some new construction in the neighborhoods, although many felt that issues were limited to certain areas of the neighborhoods, or to a small number of projects • Few participants (11%) specifically indicated that they thought there was no issue with new con- struction in the neighborhoods Participants reviewed and pro- vided comments on the zoning regulations that currently shape new construction in the Eastside and Westside. Preliminary Observations Based on workshop partici- pant responses, addressing potential new construction issues in focused ways (i.e., only addressing the largest structures or particular types of lots) could satisfy most 24 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Neighborhood Questionnaire City staff and project consultants prepared an online questionnaire to collect information on valued qualities, clarify neighborhood objectives and identify potential issues and concerns. Separate (but identical) question- naires were targeted to property owners, tenants and the general public (interested citizens), allowing for separate response tabulation for each group of partici- pants. City staff mailed 5,579 notices to owners and residents living within either the Eastside or Westside neighbor- hoods requesting they take the questionnaire. The three online questionnaires were available for par- ticipants July 2-15. Property owners within these neighborhoods taking the questionnaire totaled 115 respondents. Residents or tenants within these neigh- borhoods totaled 15 respondents. Interested citizens taking the questionnaire totaled 158 respondents, with a combined total of 288 respondents. Key Themes An initial evaluation of questionnaire results indicates two key themes in participant responses: 1. Most participants feel there is an issue with new construction, but it may be limited to particular circumstances. When asked to mark statements with which they agree regarding demolitions, new houses and additions, most participants in all three ques- tionnaires selected options indicating that they feel there is an issue. However, they indicate that issues generally occur only in certain areas or situ- ations within the neighborhoods, or are limited to a small number of construction projects. 7/17/12 Eastside & Westside Neighborhoods Character Study ‑ Interested Citizens Survey https:/www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=UV4s4uDMi8lxqVFAaTaypDLQs9I950SNYUbPxzjvqyw… 1/2 Exit this survey Eastside & Westside Neighborhoods Character Study ­ Interested Citizens 2. As a follow up to the previous question, what are the five most important qualities that define the positive character of the neighborhoods? (Select five using the examples provided or write in others below.) Trees Porches Alleys Close to Downtown Close to schools Close to parks Close to CSU Real estate values Yards and landscaping Walkable streets and blocks Neighbors and friends Historic character Social diversity Variety of house sizes Community Comments 25 Eastside and Westside Character Study Among homeowners, 18% indicated that they believe there is a widespread issue, 28% indicated that there is an issue in certain areas or situations within the neighborhoods and 30% indicated that they believe there is an issue or concern that is limited to a small number of construction projects. By contrast, 26% indicated that they have no issue or concerns. Responses from tenants and interest- ed citizens indicate a similar pattern although in- terested citizens express a somewhat higher level of concern (only 15% indicate that they have no issue or concern with new construction). When asked to clarify why new construction may create negative impacts, most homeowners (56%) indicated that some new construction is too large relative to existing neighborhood houses, di- minishes the unique character and context of the neighborhood (56%), or is too tall relative to existing neighborhood houses (55%) - Note that many homeowners selected more than one potential negative impact, so responses total more than 100%. Homeowners also cited diminished solar access, decreased socioeconomic diversity, fewer "funky" properties and a number of other po- tentially negative aspects of neighborhood change in write-in responses. 2. Many participants feel that some new construction is positive for the neighborhoods. Although most participants feel that there is some issue with new construction, many also indicated that some new construction and additions can benefit the neighborhoods. When asked to select potential reasons why there is no problem with new construction and demo- litions in the neighborhoods, 53% of homeown- ers indicated that new construction mixed with older homes adds to the eclectic evolution of the neighborhood, and 45% indicated that larger new construction supports families and homeowner- ship. Homeowners also cited improved landscap- ing, increasing property values, higher rates of homeownership and a number of other poten- tially positive aspects of neighborhood change in write-in responses. 26 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study 3. Participants expressed significant agreement on key neighborhood assets. When asked about the five most important qualities that define the positive character of the neigh- borhoods, homeowners, tenants and interested citizens most often cited "proximity to Downtown" as the most important neighborhood asset. Other commonly cited assets amongst all three groups of questionnaire participants were: • Trees • Walkable streets and blocks • Historic character Some participants also cited "architecture" and "neighbors and friends" as key neighborhood assets. Additional Questionnaire Results Questionnaire participants provided significant addi- tional feedback, including extensive written comments. They also responded to a series of demographic and other background questions. Responses to these questions are currently being evaluated and cross-tab- ulated with other questionnaire results. 27 Observations and Themes First, the key question related to this phase of the project: “What is the extent and nature of concerns and issues regarding changes to neigh- borhood character?” From across the spectrum of several community engagement methods, there is a consistent tone of concern that there is an issue with changes resulting from demolitions and new construction. But this is not a universally held viewpoint. Many people, in all outreach venues, have said there is not a problem; or that no new regulatory changes should be made. These concerns are important to consider, and identifying ways to respond to them is still an area of exploration. Common Themes In reviewing the preliminary research related to existing conditions, and considering the comments received in focus groups, neighborhood workshops and from the questionnaire, some general themes emerge: 1. The neighborhoods are highly valued. This is perhaps stating the obvious, but a strong point of consensus is the belief that the Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods are special. Many of the reasons for saying so are also broadly recog- nized, even among those who disagree about the character and impacts of new construction. This is reflected in the passion with which residents and property owners engage in debates about the future of their neighborhoods. 28 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study 2. Key features that define the neighborhoods are broadly recognized. The valued characteristics of these neighborhoods focus on convenient location, a walking-oriented environment, and diversity. The main themes of neighborhood character can be grouped thus: • Sense of Community. These broad, somewhat intangible characteristics are those that have attracted people to these neighborhoods for decades. • Proximity to amenities. Almost universally, people cite the convenient access to downtown, to schools and parks, to groceries, CSU, and other services as “top of mind” features. • Livable Streets. Tree-lined streets, continuity of pedestrian and bicycle routes, and a walkable scale to each block are features people note. Homes that face the street, and signal a connection to it with porches and other friendly features contribute to this aspect. • Diversity. “Diversity” is a double-edged discus- sion, but it is a fundamental feature of these neighborhoods, in terms of people and the built environment. The term is used in a variety of ways, to describe people, their beliefs and their social, economic and cultural differences. It also is used to describe differences in the built environment, specifically in house size, period and style. For some, the diversity of buildings and people is used as a rationale for accommodating new buildings that are different, and thereby add to the diversity of the area. Others are concerned that, by expanding the range of diversity with new buildings that are different, some of the existing diversity will be diluted, even replaced. But, it probably should be noted that for most people in these discus- sions “diversity” is within a somewhat limited range, or at least that is implied. For example, some of the diversity in building size and design involves a variety of houses within a certain era or set of similar characteristics. Observations and Themes 29 Eastside and Westside Character Study 3. Use of key design tools can help buildings fit into the neighborhoods. Although design diversity is a key feature of the neighborhoods, it is also recognized that there are key building design tools that designers can use to make new buildings more compatible with existing neighborhood character in certain contexts. Such tools generally address basic mass and scale rela- tionships between properties as well as preserva- tion of open space and solar access. 4. Living with change is a challenge. Residents are struggling to grasp the nature of change in their neighborhoods. Most recognize that change will occur, and believe that it should, but many hope that this change will not completely transform the place where they live. While some people argue that those with reservations about change should just “get over it, change has always been part of the neighborhoods”, this is a concern that should be addressed. In considering the changes that have occurred, residents have expressed these key concerns: • Some new construction is out of scale. • Some new construction negatively impacts solar access opportunities. • Some new construction causes demolition of buildings that undermines unique historic character. 30 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Issues and Concerns Moving forward, the information collected in this first phase highlights areas that need further investigation and public debate. These issues and concerns may be grouped as follows: Regulation Issues Some participants advocate for stronger regulations, to minimize impacts of new, larger buildings. But many participants, including some who believe there “is an issue,” are wary of stricter regulations. A common theme related to positive features in the neighborhoods, as expressed in workshops and focus groups, is that there is “No Homeowner’s Association.” (Which can be in- terpreted to mean there should be no stringent design standards or guidelines.) A significant proportion of participants, however, do believe that some action on the part of the City is needed. Some participants indicate that any changes to regu- lations, if they are to be modified, should be kept to a minimum, should not discourage investment, and should focus on specific, limited problems. This may be an important concept to pursue further. That is: “To what extent can the issues of mass and scale be linked to very specific conditions in the neighborhood?” If the most serious concerns occur on lots of very specific types, or on blocks with certain characteristics, it may be possible to focus on those situations as part of a new strategy in the next phase of the study. This also relates to suggestions that projects should be more “context sensitive,” while keeping regulations simple. Education & Awareness Participants expressed an important value: “People making major changes should understand the essence of the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods and should not have to be told what fits in.” Several participants advocated for a “pattern book,” or similar design handbook to guide projects that would be compatible with their neighbors. Other methods of encouraging thoughtful design should be explored in the next phase. Process Concerns Many participants continue to express the desire to engage in discussions with their neighbors when a project is planned, even if in an informal way. 31 Next A key concept Steps from this stage is that the community needs to engage in a creative problem-solving mode, not one of polarizing positions. That is, to acknowledge that many people hold concerns about current conditions, and to engage in conversations about how to address them. The focus should be on promoting the features that make an “Old Town Home.” An extensive amount of information has been collected in this initial stage of defining existing conditions, values and issues. Considering these responses and the substantial amount of information collected in the previous planning work, preliminary results indicate that these concepts should be considered next: Conduct of specific additional site variables analysis that may affect infill. In workshops, participants identified some special site conditions under which out of scale building could occur. For example, there are some blocks in which one or two parcels are much deeper in length than the typical lots in the block. When calculating permitted house size for these larger lots using the existing Floor Area Ratio, it yields a much larger house than could be built on adjoining properties. Other issues occur on very narrow lots. More detailed research of GIS data will help to identify specific property types where infill might be more likely to cause an issue. It may be that many of the issues can be isolated to specific conditions, which can then be addressed. This analysis will enable the discussions to focus more precisely on those conditions where the critical changes could occur. Although the questionnaire samples are relatively small, at under 3% of all residents and owners, they are fairly consistent with the survey conducted two years ago and with the sentiments expressed in recent workshops and focus groups. A key response to focus on is the opinion that the issues can be localized to specific geograph- ic locations or in some other ways isolated to more sensitive conditions. 32 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Conduct to focus on community points of discussions consensus. In this next phase, representatives of stakeholder groups and community advocates should join in problem-solv- ing conversations, to move beyond basic statements related to “is there a problem” to “how do we address it in a way that is mutually acceptable?” These discussions would proceed in these venues: 1. Focus groups A new set of focus groups would be conducted, in which participants from different viewpoints would work together to develop a strategy for action. These meetings will seek to find points of consensus and outline potential actions. 2. Community workshops In a second set of workshops, participants will in- vestigate specific ideas for addressing concerns. They will test concepts generated in the second round of focus groups and help craft points of consensus. 3. Administer a “visual survey” to test the creative design techniques. The initial questionnaire focused on defining issues and concerns. This second survey would include a range of pictures, illustrate alternative design strategies that can help larger buildings fit with their neighbors, and provide opportunities to evaluate their effectiveness. These would be tested in the different design contexts that have been identified. 4. Discussions with Boards and Commissions This would allow discussion of concepts emerging from the focus groups and community workshops. Next Steps 33 Eastside and Westside Character Study Develop a strategy for action. This would evolve from the next phase of community discussions and will focus on defining the range of actions that should be considered. The range of actions would be considered in these cat- egories: • Regulations and Incentives • Education and Awareness • Process and Administration A strategy report would outline the recommended action in sufficient detail to facilitate informed discus- sions in the community. This work effort will include considerations of economic factors and will draw upon experience in other communities who have implement- ed similar programs. This strategy paper will then be presented to City Council. Based on their direction, then the actual tools for implementation would be developed in Phase 3 of this project. 34 Phase 1 Report Eastside and Westside Character Study Eastside & Westside Neighborhood Character Study -- Online Questionnaire Results -- PROPERTY OWNERS Staff mailed notices to all owners and residents in the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods, 5,579 total, requesting they take the questionnaire. The three online questionnaires were available July 2-15. Slightly different versions were tailored for owners and tenants. A third version was available to other interested citizens. Responses were as follows:  115 Property owners  15 Tenants  158 Interested citizens 288 Total responses were received by July 15, 2012 ATTACHMENT 4 Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 2 Property Owner Questionnaire Responses: Q1. What are some important aspects of your neighborhood that influence why you live or own property there? 1 It is quiet without too much traffic or bad influences on our children. It is close to work, downtown, the library and parks. We have nice neighbors. Jul 17, 2012 10:02 PM 2 Trees, archecture, proxmity to downtown Jul 16, 2012 8:01 PM 3 convenience, so many things in walking distance, accessibility to wheelchair traffic, charm, buskers in old town in summer, beauty, nearness of CSU and cultural events, nearness to PVH (fragile family member) Jul 16, 2012 8:30 AM 4 nice neighbors, small town feeling, ability to walk or ride bikes places Jul 16, 2012 8:21 AM 5 Wide streets, diverse architecture, no thru streets, majority of homes are owned by individuals who take pride in their property, maintaining it and improving it as needed. But it's not cookie cuter, each home is different. It's safe. There are good parks close by where we can take our 2 year old. People play in the street and feel safe. And of course...walking distance to Old Town! Jul 15, 2012 8:29 PM 6 historic aesthetic of our neighborhood, close to downtown, safe, friendly neighbors, mature trees and landscapes, diversity of architecture (not "cookie cutter" homes that look all the same), we just love the history and handcrafted feel of an old home! Jul 15, 2012 8:11 PM 7 The eastside where our four rental properties are, is quiet and charming. My husband grew up on E. Myrtle Street, and has a real love for the area. The trees are beautiful, and the sidewalks draw you out for walking. Being close to downtown is a positive for restaurants and shopping. Alleys are an additional plus for the neighborhoods for added access. the historic charm of these old houses can't be regained if they are demolished or have high density appartments interspersed. Once changed, there is no going back in the neighborhoods. Jul 15, 2012 5:17 PM 8 older homes with porches trolley close to downtown Jul 15, 2012 9:30 AM 9 access to Old Town trees and broad streets proximty to recreation (bike path) Jul 14, 2012 10:03 PM 10 close to csu walkability mix of housing types Jul 14, 2012 8:17 PM 11 variety of homes quality architecture mountain ave parkway and trolley Jul 14, 2012 8:05 PM 12 location and good neighbors It is a well kept area Jul 14, 2012 4:48 PM 13 Bought when it was more affordable. Sense of history. Walkable, bike-able. Proximity to Martinez Park, river. Close to downtown without being downtown. Large deciduous trees that give shade in summer and allow sun in winter. Specifically looked for a house with south-facing windows for solar gain. Unpaved alleys. Space for gardens. Modest houses. Ethnic diversity, language diversity. Nostalgic streetscape. Jul 14, 2012 2:32 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 3 14 Location- walking distance to services, goods, work, outdoor recreation, and major arterials in and out of town Jul 14, 2012 10:12 AM 15 Central old town location. Easy access to Poudre River, canyon, and I-25. Prefer older neighborhoods. Jul 14, 2012 9:49 AM 16 1) diversity, diversity, diversity (lot size and landscaping, architectural styles and size of homes, socioeconomic variety (some families, some older folks, some students, some rentals vs. owner occupied, etc.) 2) proximity to downtown, river, parks and ease of walking and biking in general 3) no HOA, general tolerance of different lifestyle and house exterior/yard landscaping choices 4) the dynamic of an 'old town' character and feel mixed with elements (tolerance) of more contemporary urban design Jul 14, 2012 8:22 AM 17 Access to town and community Jul 13, 2012 11:05 AM 18 proximity to Old Town, friendly neighbors, older-smaller houses, proximity to open space and playgrounds Jul 13, 2012 8:41 AM 19 close proximity to downtown, close to community events, wide streets, mature trees, old style of architecture, diversity of neighbors, bike lanes, good city maintenance, feel a part of the city, character of neighborhoods. Jul 13, 2012 8:15 AM 20 Close to old town. The charm of the big trees and the old houses. Jul 12, 2012 7:24 PM 21 established trees, proximity to old town Jul 12, 2012 4:20 PM 22 It has heterogeneous character--both in the demographic variety of people who reside here and in the variety of expression in design of the homes. Together these characteristics create authentic charm. Jul 12, 2012 4:17 PM 23 Diversity of people and houses. Proximity to Old Town. Attractiveness of older neighborhood. Jul 12, 2012 3:45 PM 24 walkability, mature landscaping, architectural character Jul 12, 2012 12:29 PM 25 Density, nice residential area, variety of age of housing. Jul 12, 2012 8:37 AM 26 period architecture, non-HOA, originality, historic properties, mature trees, Community Jul 11, 2012 5:33 PM 27 Unique neighborhood character, proximity to Old Town and CSU, centrally located. Jul 11, 2012 4:13 PM 28 I walk and bike to work and downtown Old Town for eating and shopping. I love being able to never get in my car. I also value the sense of community, and the quirky little historic homes, which most individuals really value or they wouldn't have moved to Old Town. Folks really seem like-minded, and seem to value and respect each other. Most realize that the lots are small, making everyone close to each other, but still remain respectful. Most respect solar shading (trees) and solar access for heating by not building or adding onto existing small homes in a way that it impacts neighbors. Unfortunately, this seems to be changing as homes way too big for the property are being approved and built on tiny Old Town lots. I'm glad to have this opportunity to provide feedback about this unfortunate development... Jul 11, 2012 2:48 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 4 29 schools neighbors (lots of children) Character of homes trees/landscaping Jul 11, 2012 1:13 PM 30 I appreciate the historical characteristics of the neighborhood; that the location is Jul 11, 2012 12:46 PM 31 walkability, access to downtown, friendliness of neighborhood, old character of neighborhoods and homes Jul 11, 2012 10:27 AM 32 Proximity to downtown, schools, businesses Trees and greenery Diversity in Homes Jul 11, 2012 8:43 AM 33 Historic nature of some of the buildings; near Colorado State University; Mountain Avenue corridor; Cross section of socio-economic levels Jul 11, 2012 8:43 AM 34 Look of houses, closeness to downtown and the poudre river, big trees Jul 10, 2012 8:05 PM 35 The charm that you feel walking down the street. We love the houses and trees and the feel of an established (vintage) neighborhood. Jul 10, 2012 6:16 PM 36 proximity to old town businesses quiet streets, old homes, large trees Jul 10, 2012 4:28 PM 37 diversity of architecture and vintage/historic nature of homes Jul 10, 2012 3:18 PM 38 affordable, relaxed personality, old town character Jul 10, 2012 2:01 PM 39 I love being close to downtown and being able to walk to restaurants, grocery,etc. I love the character of my neighborhood with old and new housing, big and small, owners and tenants and the diversity in home design, age and character. Jul 10, 2012 1:22 PM 40 Beautiful old houses, big trees, walkability, diversity of residences and of Neighbors Jul 10, 2012 11:38 AM 41 1) Mixed use, family/multi-family 2) proximity to downtown Jul 10, 2012 9:58 AM 42 Vital, diverse residential community with architectural and historic significance. Ease of enjoying local businesses within walking / biking distance. We know over 50 of our neighbors - all ages and backgrounds. Friendly, supportive neighborhood. Jul 10, 2012 9:36 AM 43 diversity, location, no homeowners assoc., students, seniors, young families living in the area, the homes are all different- size, color, and age. New homes being added to keep the neighborhood healthy. Jul 10, 2012 9:27 AM 44 community convienence, bike riding and walking old town diversity of neighbors and homes Jul 10, 2012 8:37 AM 45 Unique homes, historical Jul 10, 2012 8:20 AM 46 location to amenities, old town character, trees, parks, restaurants, Entertainment Jul 10, 2012 7:17 AM 47 We moved to this neighborhood because we liked the proximity to the river and downtown. We also like the eclectic mix of houses and people. Finally, we Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 5 consider owning property there to be a good investment, both because of the location and the ongoing development of the north part of old-town Jul 9, 2012 9:14 48 proximity to the UCA and to two running tracks close, but not too close, to downtown Old Town big beautiful trees lining the street interesting and varied architecture of the houses Jul 9, 2012 7:50 PM 49 Neighborly. Older, cared-for homes, Homes with a mix of large and small, wideranging values, diverse resident population. Comfortable. Easy walking, access to parks and not garish. Jul 9, 2012 4:20 PM 50 living close to downtown. mature landscaping, wide variety of houses, quiet. older homes, bigger lots Jul 9, 2012 3:05 PM 51 Houses are unique, it is not a subdivision. Trees and landscaping are authentic. we are close to work, shopping, library, church, parks, schools. Jul 9, 2012 12:33 PM 52 Proximity and character via Old Town: the life-style choice of living in Old Town. We enjoy the trees, quiet feel of a "small life" separate from the noise, buildings and massive building on the South Side of town. Old Town is a lifestyle choice. Jul 9, 2012 12:18 PM 53 Old Town has character. While this is admittedly somewhat intangible, the beautiful old houses, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Old Town businesses are why we live here, versus a soulless, generic, suburban tract down south. Jul 9, 2012 11:47 AM 54 Close proximity to a lot of fine Fort Collins activities Jul 9, 2012 11:24 AM 55 close to old town, neighbors, look of neighborhood Jul 9, 2012 11:16 AM 56 location relative to old town, bikeability, close to CSU Jul 9, 2012 10:14 AM 57 I like the proximity to old town, the individuality of the homes and our neighbors. Jul 9, 2012 8:12 AM 58 close to Old Town, close to CSU, large shade trees, older houses, more variety in architecture AND more variety and creativity in owners' choices of ways to landscape, paint & decorate exteriors, mixed generations in neighborhoods (including CSU students, yes, really!!!), no HOA dues or control, charming historic buildings.... there are probably more reasons. Jul 9, 2012 7:54 AM 59 proximity to home depot, shopping, old town Jul 8, 2012 6:38 PM 60 Older homes, quiet street, walking distance to downtown and Beavers, slower Pace Jul 8, 2012 2:13 PM 61 location, no HOA, wide streets, mix of neighbors and housing types Jul 8, 2012 12:17 PM 62 small scale homes on larger lots. Lots of trees. Pedestrian friendly streets. Close to Old Town. Character. Charm. Jul 8, 2012 10:49 AM 63 close proximnity to old town shopping & city park Jul 7, 2012 5:44 PM 64 Walk to grocery, restaurants, library, hardware store, CSU Prefer older architecture and mature trees Diversity Jul 7, 2012 2:13 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 6 65 We love large, mature trees and the character of older homes. Wide streets. Thankful for updates, additions and new construction to enhance all our property values. Jul 7, 2012 12:39 PM 66 close to downtown, close to work, quiet, big lot for our dog, mature trees (maybe too mature), quaint houses, variety in houses, walkable, friendly/east to know neighbors, access to parks, mostly affordable Jul 7, 2012 7:28 AM 67 Proximity to shopping and work. Grid layout of streets (no cul de sacs) no ridiculous names of streets, just a normal neighborhood, full of working people. I'm conservative and the E/Wside area is more traditional, so it suits me. Jul 6, 2012 6:14 PM 68 Proximity/bikeability to downtown, variety of houses, lack of covenants, trees Jul 6, 2012 5:38 PM 69 Funky, 'cool' vibe with an eclectic mix of house styles, colors, landscaping, and inhabitants – old, young, children, students, professionals, retirees. Within walking distance of the library, good schools, the university, and old town, but safe and quiet. Jul 6, 2012 12:51 PM 70 Distance from downtown, historical character Jul 6, 2012 12:40 PM 71 Close to campus, shopping, and dining and a clean neighborhood. Jul 6, 2012 12:09 PM 72 Bike and/or walk to work and most errands; trees; quiet; no HOA regulations; diversity of home sizes and styles. Jul 6, 2012 11:26 AM 73 I love historic homes that are preserved and cared for. Porches provide a way to interact with the world and are a major reason I live in my West Mountain neighborhood. Jul 6, 2012 10:31 AM 74 proximity to Old Town, neighborhood character Jul 6, 2012 8:32 AM 75 Proximity to downtown and campus; character and quality of architecture; mix of families and students; distance from busy streets/industry/noise Jul 6, 2012 8:20 AM 76 The abundant trees, wide sidewalks and streets, proximity to Old Town shops and events; older historic homes Jul 5, 2012 8:14 PM 77 Location Jul 5, 2012 7:52 PM 78 Proximity to Old Town, Character of the neighborhood, Historical Connection, Diversity of income and population Jul 5, 2012 4:12 PM 79 The character, homogenous older styles. Lower houses than the new ones being built, providing more privacy. Larger yards with less house. Jul 5, 2012 3:48 PM 80 QUIET. Not a lot of renters, yet affordable. Walkable to downtown. Quiet. Close to Poudre bike path, Beaver's Mkt & City Park. Not a busy street. Lots of big trees. Most homes have nice landscaping. Historic and architecturally interesting homes. Did I mention quiet? Jul 5, 2012 1:16 PM 81 Proximity to downtown (shops, restaurants and work). Wide, quiet streets. Safe. Close to Poudre Trail and river Jul 5, 2012 10:23 AM 82 Mix of population, trees, interesting old houses, quiet even tho close to Mulberry, Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 7 close to downtown Old Town Jul 5, 2012 10:23 AM 83 The ability to walk to shops and restaurants as well as the youthful and energetic influence of the college. Jul 5, 2012 9:42 AM 84 Character of the homes- we don't all look exactly the same. Not having to deal with homeowners associations. Historic architecture. Quality materials. Jul 5, 2012 9:34 AM 85 We enjoy the frequent but low-key activity going on here on W. Mt. It creates lots of opportunity to know and interact with neighbors. We enjoy being within walking distance of downtown. Jul 5, 2012 8:41 AM 86 Big trees. Walkable to downtown. Historic houses. Jul 5, 2012 8:30 AM 87 Overall feel of community, accessibility to restaurants and old town, character in older homes Jul 5, 2012 8:26 AM 88 I love that is in old town and also quiet. There are few renters on our street and the renters we have are quiet and respectful. We love living in old town and are happy we found a neighborhood that is peaceful. Jul 5, 2012 8:21 AM 89 charm, historical roots of civilization, proximity/commutability to downtown Jul 4, 2012 9:19 PM 90 The diversity of homes & those who choose to live in this area. The "Old" feeling of the neighborhood. Jul 4, 2012 7:29 PM 91 Quite neighborhood, older houses, close to downtown, Lincoln Center, and CSU. Jul 4, 2012 4:05 PM 92 Older houses (1950s), large trees, most owner occupied, few rentals, close to old town and CSU, close-knit community, urban farming Jul 4, 2012 8:35 AM 93 Quiet, close-knit community. Easy walking or biking distance to everything. Access to bike trails. Mature trees, gardens, parks. Stable or increasing home values. Jul 4, 2012 8:32 AM 94 walkability, charm of neighborhood, safety, community Jul 3, 2012 11:31 PM 95 Older established neighborhood with fewer rentals you have to live next to. Jul 3, 2012 11:07 PM 96 close to downtown and parks and trail. Large trees, wide streets with sidewalks set back from street, old houses with character. Jul 3, 2012 10:11 PM 97 Fantastic neighbors; most important. We know all of our neighbors; will be having our 33rd annual block party later this month. Multi-generational from very young families to some of us in our 80's. Variety of housing styles. No HOA (didn't consider this when we bought the property in 1974). Independent control of how we manage our property. Jul 3, 2012 5:42 PM 98 Proximity to downtown Jul 3, 2012 5:03 PM 99 Historic, unique houses. Wide streets. Lots of trees. Large backyards. Proximity to downtown. Bike friendly. Lots of shared open space on each block. Well-kept area. Jul 3, 2012 3:56 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 8 100 the charm, chracter, and historical nature of the neighborhood; proximity to downtown. Jul 3, 2012 3:33 PM 101 I live on a side street between Mountain and LaPorte and enjoy that it does not have heavy traffic. Primary reason for locating in this area was 1) proximity to work, shopping, entertainment in Old Town and 2) City Park. Also like the diversity of the neighborhood, although would prefer that a few more houses on my block were not rentals. Jul 3, 2012 1:49 PM 102 Wide, tree-lines streets. Sidewalks. Proximity to library, CSU campus and downtown. Accessible, friendly neighbors. Jul 3, 2012 1:41 PM 103 *historic feel, including architecture *Diversity of ages and cultures due to longtime residents plus students. *proximity to old town = no need to drive anywhere on a daily basis because everything is walk or bikeable *community involvement/engagement within neighborhood. *residents of neighborhood are generally aware of and act on current issues within larger community Jul 3, 2012 1:18 PM 104 Flavor, feel, appreciating values, pedestrian access Jul 3, 2012 12:44 PM 105 Close distance to Old Town/Downtown; Atmosphere; Price of home Jul 3, 2012 12:26 PM 106 Freedom from covenants and HOAs. Eclectic mix of homes, from 2 bedroom bungalos to 100+ year old mansions to recently constructed homes (large and small). I'm strongly opposed to restrictions limiting the size of homes relative to lot size. I already live in a large home on a large lot so these types of restrictions would actually benefit my property value, but I'm still against it. Trees! Easy walking/biking to just about anything. Old Town business area. Jul 3, 2012 9:40 AM 107 proximity to Old Town and CSU relatively large number of single family homes wide streets and big trees good neighbors Jul 2, 2012 9:22 PM 108 Proximity to old town. Personal property rights that allow me to do what I wat with my property. Jul 2, 2012 9:13 PM 109 Charm, close to downtown and events, established neighborhood Jul 2, 2012 8:28 PM 110 mature landscapes and trees, homes with history and character, proximity to the center of Fort Collins, Mountain Avenue, trolley, City Park Jul 2, 2012 6:22 PM 111 Historical structures, friendly neighbors, biking distance to dining and shopping, good schools, low crime. Jul 2, 2012 6:07 PM 112 Proximity to Downtown. Mature trees and landscaping. Ability to bike to westside neighborhood and nearby parks. Respectful and friendly neighbors. Jul 2, 2012 6:04 PM 113 kids playing outside, bike and pedestrian friendly, old charm houses w/front porches and yards to play in, minimal traffic, quiet and safe, wide streets, original Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 9 homes with tons of character, proximity to parks and Old Town, and the Tamale Lady! Jul 2, 2012 4:15 PM 114 Location - Old Town and CSU Jul 2, 2012 3:36 PM 115 Non conforming individual character of housing, old trees and vegetation. For the most part it is an eclectic bunch of people as neighbors. I also like the ability to walk to destinations. Jul 2, 2012 1:26 PM 116 Great neighbors, mature trees Jul 2, 2012 1:05 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 10 Q2. Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 11 Q3. What are some key changes that have occurred or are occurring in your neighborhood? 1 multi-housing Jul 18, 2012 10:48 AM 2 Infill of additional housing and expansion of existing houses. Loss of trees. Jul 17, 2012 10:03 PM 3 Hostility to expansion Jul 16, 2012 8:02 PM 4 Growth of Import Auto body behind our block. Mostly a good neighbor, employees are pleasant and the building creates a bit of a sound block for the noise of Riverside, noxious fumes not so fun, but they are transitory. In general, home-owners care about tidiness of yards and home up-keep, rental units are rented to reasonable (not disruptive) people. There are more solar installations. Jul 16, 2012 8:37 AM 5 none Jul 16, 2012 8:21 AM 6 Recently we have seen families starting to come into the neighborhood. Within the last 5-6 years we have had 4 new children either move or be born within 3 homes, creating an awesome family neighborhood feel. Because of this, we are closer, we spend time together, and we look out for each other. When we first moved in 10 years ago, there were little to no children in the neighborhood, and now there are a lot, which we LOVE! Jul 15, 2012 8:34 PM 7 some tear downs going on with very large homes going in that do not fit the character of the neighborhood. Some nice upgrades to older commercial buildings, ie Otterbox, Lincoln center etc. Jul 15, 2012 8:15 PM 8 We have not noticed any yet, but we do see requests for rezoning so that entire second floors can be added to existing homes. Jul 15, 2012 5:19 PM 9 popoffs and scrapeoffs Jul 15, 2012 9:31 AM 10 houses being renovated Old Town alley projects Jul 14, 2012 10:06 PM 11 new development Jul 14, 2012 8:17 PM 12 new construction Jul 14, 2012 8:06 PM 13 not sure Jul 14, 2012 4:49 PM 14 Scrape-offs and replacement with outsized houses that shade houses to the north and cause higher heat bills and loss of light. they also shade gardens. Often they use several feet of fill to circumvent height restrictions, causing flooded basements and other drainage problems. The large houses encourage more indoor living-because of less remaining yard and because neighbors have less privacy--diminishing sense of community. Subdivision of lots and "scenery mining" (big houses ruining the view from neighboring houses but having 2nd floor balconies that look down on neighboring yards and patios). New houses not designed for natural ventilation--they have air conditioning which cools the interior while adding to heat and noise outside. Loss of the city's stock of small houses, loss of economic, ethnic, and age diversity. Increasing speculation by builders who have no incentive to cooperate with neighbors. Loss of historic Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 12 streetscape. Loss of garden space. Increased stormwater runoff and flooded gutters. Abuse of variance process. Jul 14, 2012 3:14 PM 15 Owners making upgrades to houses - some cosmetic (new paint, etc.), but also expansions and improvements - are a positive reinvestment in the neighborhood Jul 14, 2012 10:13 AM 16 The Science Museum, updating of existing homes. Improvements in properties surrounding neighborhood. Jul 14, 2012 9:50 AM 17 1) A lot of investment in home remodels - both interior and exterior; exterior includes everything from minor to major additions 2) With increasing home prices (generally, a good thing) there is decreasing socioecononomic diversity (not so great). I guess this is inevitable? Jul 14, 2012 8:28 AM 18 poor maintance Jul 13, 2012 11:06 AM 19 Large new houses around the corner Jul 13, 2012 8:43 AM 20 New construction, remodels and add ons. houses being scraped and huge houses being built. Alleys are not maintained the way they used to be. Jul 13, 2012 8:20 AM 21 Some townhouses went up. Jul 12, 2012 8:51 PM 22 people are purchasing older properties and trying to update them and make them nicer. Jul 12, 2012 4:34 PM 23 It seems like more student renters are moving in as the older residents sell their homes and investors snap them up. This may be temporary until more student apartments are available. Jul 12, 2012 4:21 PM 24 Beautiful remodels of older, dilapidated homes. Jul 12, 2012 3:48 PM 25 over-scaled infill, sensetive improvements Jul 12, 2012 12:31 PM 26 Increase in cubic volume which will change density of neighborhood. Jul 12, 2012 8:39 AM 27 rental properties that are not cared for, building big houses on small lots/next to small houses, stalled construction, multi-unit projects next to single family homes Jul 11, 2012 5:36 PM 28 General home improvement projects around the area - All good! Jul 11, 2012 4:16 PM 29 Homes are being built that are way too large for the lots. This is blocking universal rights of adjacent properties to receive solar shading and potential heating and power. This is eliminating existing historic trees, homes and the character of Old Town. This is also creating run-off problems, noise impacts from construction, safety hazards to families in the neighborhoods, and a general lack of respect for existing homeowners... It isn't fair when construction is approved on these tiny lots that directly impacts adjacent properties, leaving existing adjacent homeowners feeling powerless. There is something wrong with the system when you have to have a permit to place a sign in your yard, yet a home is permitted to be built on a mound, raising the run-off into adjacent properties, Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 13 eliminating all natural absorbtion areas because a new home takes nearly every square inch of a lot, and totally blocking all solar from adjacent properties. When construction crews have to walk/work/dig/impact the adjacent property because the new home is so large, then there is a major problem. Frankly I'm disappointed in the city for allowing such injustices. Jul 11, 2012 2:58 PM 30 renovation of homes Jul 11, 2012 1:14 PM 31 Large replacement homes have impinged on backyard privacy and the regrading has affected drainage. Jul 11, 2012 12:52 PM 32 Some houses are being enlarged without consideration for the overall impact upon the neighborhood in terms of overall mass, creating a larger footprint, and executing designs for the additions/rebuilds that do not blend in with the exisitng home or nearby residences. Jul 11, 2012 8:49 AM 33 Homes are being taken care of better. They are maintained regularly. There have been only two additions done in the neighborhood since 1976. Homes have retained the same structure just are better cared for Jul 11, 2012 8:47 AM 34 less rental properties, some big houses (Wood St) that don't look like they fit in with the neighborhood Jul 10, 2012 8:07 PM 35 A loss of the original architecture and values of living in this setting. Too many homes have been significantly changed or completely destroyed. People have lived in these homes and raised children for close to 100 years and that adds value. Jul 10, 2012 6:18 PM 36 older homes being changed so dramatically that they no longer look "old", people growing pot in their homes Jul 10, 2012 4:30 PM 37 traffic load and non-owner occupancy has increased substantialy Jul 10, 2012 3:24 PM 38 Nothing significant Jul 10, 2012 2:02 PM 39 I had to go through the process of getting a certificate of occupancy on my home only to find out at inspection that my basement apartment probably didn't need that process. I have seen a turn over to more owner occupied homes on my street. I have seen some nice, large, new homes built in my neighborhood. I have seen a slummy house on my block flipped and sold for a large profit. I have seen the City increase parking and alley patrols in order to collect more fees. I have seen a positive move after the storms last fall from the City to help clean up tree branches. I have seen my City Council Member try to extend their term to enhance their political agenda and then change their mind. I have heard about an agenda the City has to put a moritorium on attached housing. Alley houses and out buildings got regulated with height restrictions, etc. The City enforcing three unrelated has been a good thing. Jul 10, 2012 1:30 PM 40 Lots of additions and imaginative landscaping. Housing prices have gone up. Jul 10, 2012 11:40 AM 41 1) building renewal and improvements 2) more, younger families Jul 10, 2012 10:01 AM 42 More owner occupied, renovated homes and landscape. Rentals are being upgraded and maintained better on our street - nice mix of people. On the Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 14 downside - developers putting lots of money into overturning existing standards in order to put in high density projects in the neighborhood - feel like we must constantly attend meetings and spend money on attorneys to maintain the city's standards. Seems backwards to have this ongoing defense of current standards paid for by neighbors who are already taxpayers?? Jul 10, 2012 9:40 AM 43 Love that house are being updated in the neighborhood. New homes, additions, help keep the neighborhood vital. Jul 10, 2012 9:30 AM 44 improvements to properties young families moved in Jul 10, 2012 8:39 AM 45 too many college kids, noise, landlords not keeping up houses. Jul 10, 2012 7:18 AM 46 Our neighborhood has been improving since we purchased our house 9 years ago. In particular, many houses have been fixed up, and nearby developments (e.g., Penny Flats and the Museum) have brought more businesses and people to the area. Jul 9, 2012 9:18 PM 47 extra large house was built on block homes being upgraded some xeriscaping and vegetable growing in front yards Jul 9, 2012 7:54 PM 48 We've been here 37 years. Mrore sense of neighborhood. Property values and care up -- and we kinda miss some of the hippie element that's now priced out. Jul 9, 2012 4:23 PM 49 actually, none which is good. Jul 9, 2012 3:07 PM 50 property upgrades Jul 9, 2012 12:35 PM 51 Mostly, in the East Side, numerous rental properties are continually neglected, run-down and in general, are diminishing the integrity of Old Town and the nearby owners' houses. Land Lords seem negligent to keeping their properties respectful and maintained. Specifically: trash, beer bottles, long and uncared for grass and weeds, trash across the lawn, frequent parties and loud noise, beer pong tables, TV sets on the lawn and couches (intersection of Remington and Locust). Jul 9, 2012 12:25 PM 52 On our block, there are only three owner-occupied homes, with six or seven college rentals. Five of those rentals are owned by the same landlord. Those five houses are consistently neglected. The lawns are unmowed and mostly dirt and weeds, there is trash (mostly beer bottles, cans, and cups) on the porches and yards, and the renters show no regard for how terrible their properties look, nor to the fact that they have neighbors who live here permanently. The landlords do nothing to monitor or maintain the properties, nor do they hold their renters accountable for this. Jul 9, 2012 11:52 AM 53 key changes - none that come to mind. Jul 9, 2012 11:28 AM 54 more rental properties Jul 9, 2012 11:18 AM 55 new construction Jul 9, 2012 10:15 AM 56 I don't want to be told what I can and can't do with my home and property. I also don't think we need a new stadium. Jul 9, 2012 8:16 AM 57 mostly a lot of property and landscaping improvement projects in my close few Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 15 Blocks Jul 9, 2012 8:03 AM 58 East side of E. Elizabeth St. near Lemay is slowly getting overtaken by less desired elements - thumpers (cars with very loud bass speakers driving slowly), loiterers, more litter on the street Jul 8, 2012 6:41 PM 59 houses are getting larger, neighborhoods are looking good, including house upkeep and landscaping Jul 8, 2012 2:14 PM 60 divided lots, new-bigger homes being built, lots of remodeling Jul 8, 2012 12:18 PM 61 Boarding houses. Smaller homes replaced with larger homes. Multifamily. Jul 8, 2012 10:52 AM 62 owners fixing up properties, increasing value Jul 7, 2012 5:45 PM 63 Quite a few older, run-down houses have been, or are being, renovated Jul 7, 2012 2:15 PM 64 Lots of updating, several additions, and some new construction on "scraped" lots. ALL OF IT IS GOOD!! Jul 7, 2012 12:42 PM 65 There seems to be a trend toward improvement of existing houses through landscaping of front yards, painting/siding, new windows, insulation, etc. Jul 7, 2012 7:34 AM 66 Hispanic families are leaving and more will leave our block; this is unfortunate. There has been a lot of new construction, some of it tasteful, some of it not particularly neighborly. One of the most noticeable changes is the downed trees from last October's storms. The relining of Laporte down to 2 lanes (big improvement). New curbs and sidewalks on Whitcomb (finally!) after construction at Laporte. Jul 6, 2012 6:20 PM 67 homes/yards are being upgraded - this is good! Jul 6, 2012 5:40 PM 68 High water landscape replaced with xeriscape, houses and landscape improving, rental properties are better maintained. Jul 6, 2012 12:54 PM 69 Rentals having a bigger impact, people are fixing up their houses Jul 6, 2012 12:41 PM 70 The ordinance on occupancy, etc. Jul 6, 2012 12:10 PM 71 Some expansions/additions to houses. Jul 6, 2012 11:27 AM 72 Small cottages are being torn down and replaced by McMansions that are out of scale and unsustainable. Jul 6, 2012 10:34 AM 73 Otterbox relocation and planned expansion; increased parking demand Jul 6, 2012 8:34 AM 74 Most owners continue to care for and upgrade their homes. Jul 6, 2012 8:24 AM 75 Homes that were formerly rental properties becoming owner occupied. Renovation of older homes and several new homes built in a style that fits in with the historic homes Jul 5, 2012 8:15 PM 76 Homes are being improved upon regularly. Owners are taking pride in creative upgrades and the neighborhood is always improving. Jul 5, 2012 4:15 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 16 77 Huge new houses that tower over the older ones and appear to fill their entire lots. Jul 5, 2012 3:49 PM 78 Houses being added onto, Old houses demolished & replaced. Jul 5, 2012 1:21 PM 79 Some homes upgraded, few new purchases. Jul 5, 2012 10:26 AM 80 Houses that are disproportionate in size. Seeing a lot of new construction that doesn't fit (*ie, Wood Street). I do feel like the split sidewalks are becoming more popular for landscaping opportunities and love to see the things people are doing with the space! (City should encourage this) Jul 5, 2012 10:25 AM 81 College students that are living in unsafe conditions due to a lack of housing. Jul 5, 2012 9:51 AM 82 In the past 2 years, 6 monsterous homes have been built on my street or one block away. They do not fit with the architecture of the neighborhood, they are enormous two-story homes that crowd their neighbors and in my opinion are unsightly. I live in Old Town to get away from cookie-cutter houses. Jul 5, 2012 9:47 AM 83 Houses are being better maintained, and some are being restored. New houses are complementary with surrounding architecture. Old houses, that either are being built around or razed, have decidedly outlived their quality of life for the neighborhood. Jul 5, 2012 8:52 AM 84 Front yard vegetable gardens are a current trend. While most are fine 1516 Remington St has planted half their yard. When such a large space is planted a fence might be appropriate. Jul 5, 2012 8:42 AM 85 Small houses being scraped or remodeled to make much larger houses. Jul 5, 2012 8:33 AM 86 I see there are more children here then when we moved in. Jul 5, 2012 8:22 AM 87 re-embrace of household gardens and backyard chickens. A lot of gaudy toppops or over builds recently. Jul 4, 2012 9:26 PM 88 Houses are changing hands with more owner occupied vs rentals Jul 4, 2012 7:35 PM 89 Larger houses are being built. Jul 4, 2012 4:07 PM 90 We have only been in our current home a few years, there have been positive changes due to the U+2 ordinance (mostly we hear about how bad it used to be and how much it's improved). We have also seen a wonderful increase in home gardens, urban farms and community involvement in the local foods movement. Jul 4, 2012 8:41 AM 91 Ongoing improvements to properties, increasingly owner occupied. Rentals have high quality and respectful tenants. Jul 4, 2012 8:35 AM 92 a lot of previous rentals are being purchased and upgraded for homeowners. Jul 3, 2012 11:34 PM 93 Home owners remodeling. Jul 3, 2012 11:09 PM 94 some buildups and scrapeoffs and infill. with overly large houses that barely fit Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 17 the lots. When we moved in here 22 years ago the neighborhood and downtown was declining. vacancies and increasing rentals w/o landlords Jul 3, 2012 10:15 PM 95 Very little. Some have expanded houses. Very stable community. Jul 3, 2012 5:46 PM 96 None of consequence Jul 3, 2012 5:05 PM 97 More people are adding additions onto the houses. The churches have changed hands or are for sale. Jul 3, 2012 3:58 PM 98 In the past year, two houses on our block have been completely remodeld, and one house (next to us) has been scraped and will be rebuilt from scratch. One block away from us, a lot (which was a double-lot) was scraped and several modern, huge single-family homes were squeezed on to the property. When we walk the neighborhood, we see giant new homes built on lots next to tiny, older homes. We are very concerned about this trend. Something needs to be put in place to block these large, out-of-place homes in our neighborhood! Jul 3, 2012 3:40 PM 99 I completed some major property renovation to my home. I don't see so much of that on my particular block but do see a lot of renovation in the neighborhood. Jul 3, 2012 1:51 PM 100 We're too new (4 weeks) to know. Jul 3, 2012 1:43 PM 101 *CSU on-campus stadium might be built, which some people (including self) fear will threaten the character and livability of neighborhood. *some people are expanding their houses beyond the limits of historic character. Neighborhood has opposing views on this. *Opening of University Center for the Arts has brought campus and other community arts closer in proximity. I see this as a positive change. *student neighbors seem more aware of party registrations, and often tell me about upcoming events in advance. *alleys are no longer graded each year unless requested due to budget cuts 3-unrelated ordinance Jul 3, 2012 1:34 PM 102 upgrades and improvements Jul 3, 2012 12:45 PM 103 Old homes torn down - new, modern "loft-style" homes being built Jul 3, 2012 12:27 PM 104 Rental properties are turning over and becoming owner-occupied. Small (<900 ft2) run-down homes are being remodeled or scraped and being replaced with larger homes, attracting more families ot the neighborhood. Jul 3, 2012 9:42 AM 105 rental properties - not well maintained parking problems - too many cars on street poor condition of many streets positive - many investing in their homes (single family) Jul 2, 2012 9:24 PM 106 The limiting of alley homes. More regulations and taking of choices from the City of Fort Collins Jul 2, 2012 9:16 PM 107 Some houses are remodeled to look too modern Jul 2, 2012 8:29 PM 108 Older classic homes are 'remodelled,' but when the remodel is done, a new house is standing on old foundations. The 3-wall rule is easily manipulated. Also, monstrous additions are permitted glued like tumors to older homes. There is very little point to keeping the front of the house 'historic' if you can attach a huge warehouse to it. Jul 2, 2012 6:28 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 18 109 Have only lived here 1yr. No key changes have occured in that time. Jul 2, 2012 6:09 PM 110 More people in general throughout the year in the eastside neighborhood where we have rented and now own a house over the last 6 years. Jul 2, 2012 6:07 PM 111 Huge new houses have been built that take up the entire lot, blocking the sun, two houses built where one once stood, front yards are disappearing- new houses cover entire lot, no distance between homes, new homes don't match character of neighborhood, no privacy with 3 story houses next to a single story. This causes property taxes to go up exponentially, essentially driving out longtime residents who can't afford it. Loss of diversity. Jul 2, 2012 4:16 PM 112 Additions to homes & new properties built Jul 2, 2012 3:37 PM 113 I live on a small side street that people us as a "short-cut" to excess other larger streets because they are frustrated by traffic signals and flow. There people speed down my street, unsafely, causing safety concerns. Jul 2, 2012 1:31 PM 114 McMansions Jul 2, 2012 1:06 PM Q4. Please list or describe any positive aspects of the neighborhood changes. 1 higher property evaluation Jul 18, 2012 10:48 AM 2 Infill limits expansion to natural areas. Expansion of existing homes attracts middle income families. Jul 17, 2012 10:04 PM 3 Remodeling allows homes to improve to provide a size needed for today's family. Also, it brings the value of the neighborhood up and promotes home maintenance. Jul 16, 2012 8:03 PM 4 All of # 3 were positive Jul 16, 2012 8:38 AM 5 n/a Jul 16, 2012 8:21 AM 6 I mentioned it in the last question, but there's a tighter bond with our neighbors. We look out for each other. Jul 15, 2012 8:34 PM 7 Otterbox making use of an old, ugly building and making look nice, also their proactive concern with fitting in to the neighborhood and being a friendly neighbor. Jul 15, 2012 8:16 PM 8 none Jul 15, 2012 5:19 PM 9 most new building has been done well Jul 15, 2012 9:31 AM 10 stable housing values nicer Old Town area Jul 14, 2012 10:06 PM 11 new families able to move into larger homes Jul 14, 2012 8:18 PM 12 good design of construction attention to historic architecture Jul 14, 2012 8:07 PM 13 more family homes Jul 14, 2012 4:49 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 19 14 Since there are more rich and powerful people, the police no longer ignore the neighborhood. On the other hand, there's more property crime that follows wealth. Jul 14, 2012 3:15 PM 15 Improved home appearance Greater diversity in home appearances and sizes Improved property values Jul 14, 2012 10:14 AM 16 The home improvements and building help improve my property value as well as beautify the area. Some of the older properties really need improvements and I welcome new construction and renovations on existing properties. Bottom line is anything that improves my home value I am for it. Jul 14, 2012 9:52 AM 17 Continued investment in homes and overall appeal of old town as a place to buy a home and live in does maintain the vitality of the area and quality of the housing stock Jul 14, 2012 8:31 AM 18 Increased income in neighborhood,replacing houses that may not be structurally sound. Jul 13, 2012 8:44 AM 19 nice to see people investing in their property. run down houses are getting fixed up. improving some home values. Jul 13, 2012 8:20 AM 20 Nicer updated rentals. Jul 12, 2012 8:52 PM 21 run down homes are starting to become renovated. Jul 12, 2012 4:35 PM 22 this is not positive Jul 12, 2012 4:22 PM 23 Neighborhood is more attractive with the remodels and has higher real estate values. Jul 12, 2012 3:48 PM 24 increased property value Jul 12, 2012 12:31 PM 25 It is nice to see old houses saved, provided additions are not excessive Jul 12, 2012 8:41 AM 26 Some renovations are an improvement to the neighborhood; I agree with current codes for size of houses/lots but seems they are not enforced. Laurel School Historic District should be preserved but seems it needs to have a higher priority. Jul 11, 2012 5:39 PM 27 The vast majority of properties in these neighborhoods are quite old and in constant need of repair, renewal, and updating. A continued interest in the rejuvenation of these areas is essential to maintaining the overall high quality and desirability these neighborhoods currently enjoy. Unfortunately, revitalization also means adapting 100+ year old outdated, homes to conform with contemporary standards and expectations. The City of Fort Collins should take a position of both advocate and enabler, promoting the continued interest in these areas, not creating obstructions and limitations. Jul 11, 2012 4:40 PM 28 Perhaps property values, but with that comes tax increases that I unfortunately have no control over... Jul 11, 2012 2:58 PM 29 Small-scale renovations sufficient to keep families with children living in the area. Jul 11, 2012 12:55 PM 30 Some projects are tastefully executed, and in turn, these homes then provide Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 20 additional comfortable living spaces for the owners and their families. Jul 11, 2012 8:51 AM 31 The neighborhood has changed to be more owned property--this could be the reason for better maintained homes or the better maintained homes attracted owners Jul 11, 2012 8:49 AM 32 Less rental properties Jul 10, 2012 8:07 PM 33 A few older homes that needed significant maintenance have been repaired but that is not the norm. Jul 10, 2012 6:19 PM 34 With updating the older homes with current electricity, a/c, more bathrooms enlarging them but keeping them looking original from the street and not too tall allows for interest from more types of people and keeps real-estate values increasing Jul 10, 2012 4:33 PM 35 none positive Jul 10, 2012 3:26 PM 36 No comment Jul 10, 2012 2:05 PM 37 The neighborhood generally looks nicer. Lots of folks have been planting nice, drought resistant plants in theit yards. Values have continued to go up. There are less rentals and more quality renters in the area. The streets got improved after the flood. The bike lanes are great. The flowers at intersections are nice. Homes have been improved overall. It is nice to see people choosing to stay in the neighborhood and fixing homes up/adding on, etc. Jul 10, 2012 1:36 PM 38 Things look thriving -- there is a feeling that we take pleasure in our homes and yards. Jul 10, 2012 11:42 AM 39 1) building renewal/ renovation 2) younger families moving into neighborhood Jul 10, 2012 10:02 AM 40 Pride in homes, better maintenance and landscape - cohesive bond between neighbors (owners and renters in our area are compatible - some areas have a ways to go) Jul 10, 2012 9:41 AM 41 Families want and need homes that are updated for the 21st century. I love that young families are moving in- that is good for everyone, schools will be able to stay open, parks and trails used, shopping downtown... Jul 10, 2012 9:33 AM 42 both positive Jul 10, 2012 8:39 AM 43 House improvements have made the neighborhood look better, and have helped keep property values steady, despite weak markets overall. Jul 9, 2012 9:19 PM 44 the xerescaping and houses being upgraded make the neighborhood look more Attractive Jul 9, 2012 7:58 PM 45 As before: caring, neighborliness, a feeling of stability. Jul 9, 2012 4:24 PM 46 n/a Jul 9, 2012 3:07 PM 47 overall appearance and value increases as properties are upgraded Jul 9, 2012 12:35 PM 48 The areas that have turned over rentals seem more groomed and monitored by the city (West side near Mountain). * Positive: CSU creating the flower gardens and renovating the Old F. Collins high school and nearby buildings. This has added value to the East Side. Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 21 Jul 9, 2012 12:26 PM 49 Some owner-occupied homes on Peterson (we live on Locust just west of Peterson) have been improved significantly in the 8 years we have lived here. Jul 9, 2012 11:53 AM 50 n/a Jul 9, 2012 11:28 AM 51 new construction, less rental property more home owners Jul 9, 2012 10:16 AM 52 I like my neighborhood as it is - with no hoas, etc. Jul 9, 2012 8:17 AM 53 properties look good, neighborhood feels stable, property values are strong, rental demand is high Jul 9, 2012 8:04 AM 54 the changes I've seen are negative Jul 8, 2012 6:41 PM 55 Families are staying or moving in, real estate values are steady, neighborhood is looking nice Jul 8, 2012 2:15 PM 56 homes being fixed up, yards being improved, home values stable or increasing Jul 8, 2012 12:19 PM 57 Street improvements. Drainage improvements. Jul 8, 2012 10:52 AM 58 increase value, after remodleing Jul 7, 2012 5:45 PM 59 More houses and yards are being improved than are being allowed to deteriorate - looks like the desirability of the neighborhood is increasing rather than decreasing Jul 7, 2012 2:16 PM 60 The updating, additions & new construction serve to improve our neighborhoods and increase property values. Please DO NOT create restrictions or "red tape" that will inhibit or add costs to these improvements. We LOVE that young families are moving to our part of town to improve or replace existing properties. Jul 7, 2012 12:45 PM 61 Increases our value Demonstrates that we all have ownership in our properties (there are few rentals on our block) Maintains the character of the street while increasing the livability and quality of the existing homes Jul 7, 2012 7:35 AM 62 Many of the houses that were scraped weren't much to look at and didn't need to be saved. All in all, I think the new construction is mostly good. The sidewalks on Whitcomb are great! I wish we could get walkable sidewalks on all Old Town streets; Loomis north of Laporte is terrible. Jul 6, 2012 6:22 PM 63 Nicer to look at and walk by. Jul 6, 2012 5:40 PM 64 Property values increasing, really nice neighbors, less traffic Jul 6, 2012 12:55 PM 65 Lots of remodeling Jul 6, 2012 12:42 PM 66 None. Jul 6, 2012 12:10 PM 67 Fortunately, those closest to me have been tasteful and have not changed the character/quality of the 'hood. Jul 6, 2012 11:27 AM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 22 68 Restoration of historic homes. Jul 6, 2012 10:34 AM 69 good for local businesses Jul 6, 2012 8:35 AM 70 Adds to pride of ownership. Jul 6, 2012 8:25 AM 71 Shift to owner-occupied homes; the quality of some of the newer homes built. Jul 5, 2012 8:16 PM 72 Creative home colors. Improved landscaping. Updated home interiors and exteriors. Historical and neighborhood appreciation and sensitivity. Sensitive integration of multi family units. Jul 5, 2012 4:18 PM 73 Some very funky homes are being replaced and/or remodeled increasing property values Jul 5, 2012 3:50 PM 74 New / remodeled homes generally look much better and are better maintained. Jul 5, 2012 1:34 PM 75 New construction means the economy must be moving in the right direction. Seeing neighbors take pride in their yards and improving the beautiful area adds character. Jul 5, 2012 10:27 AM 76 Upgrades to home improve resale value also bring in a variety of folks. Jul 5, 2012 10:27 AM 77 Fort Collins is growing and everyone wants to live in Old Town. The City must be willing to adapt to these pressures and not listen entirely to current residents that do not want any type of change. Jul 5, 2012 9:55 AM 78 It is possible that the sale of these homes has helped me acheive a small property value increase. Jul 5, 2012 9:48 AM 79 general attractiveness; "curb appeal"; area properties maintain or enhance their Value Jul 5, 2012 8:57 AM 80 CSU updating the Remington St art building and administrative building. Jul 5, 2012 8:42 AM 81 We have a 3 year old, so I think more children is a positive aspect. Jul 5, 2012 8:23 AM 82 reconnects people with the mechanics of mother earth, paying homage through physical labor to the best planet in the world! Jul 4, 2012 9:26 PM 83 There are young couples moving in & fixing up old house but retaining the "old" Feel Jul 4, 2012 7:35 PM 84 Probably raises property values. Jul 4, 2012 4:07 PM 85 Fewer problems with student rentals (although there is still room for improvement). Jul 4, 2012 8:41 AM 86 Increasing home values, stability, safety. Jul 4, 2012 8:40 AM 87 Neighborhood is looking better, property values are stable, not as much noise from studentsJul 3, 2012 11:35 PM 88 Maybe values going up, and homes looking nice. Jul 3, 2012 11:10 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 23 89 vibrant downtown, more stable neighborhood with a good mix of rentals, houses maintained. Jul 3, 2012 10:16 PM 90 Very few changes. Jul 3, 2012 5:46 PM 91 None of consequence Jul 3, 2012 5:06 PM 92 Can't think of any positive changes. Jul 3, 2012 3:58 PM 93 More people value living in our neighborhood and are moving to Old Town. Some fo our neighbors want to maintain the historical character of their homes and are improving their homes, rathern than demolishing their homes in favor of rebuilding on valued lots. Jul 3, 2012 3:41 PM 94 any renovation should improve the value of neighboring homes Jul 3, 2012 1:51 PM 95 We're too new to know. Jul 3, 2012 1:43 PM 96 *Opening of University Center for the Arts has brought campus and other community arts closer in proximity. *student neighbors seem more aware of party registrations, and often tell me about upcoming events in advance. 3- unrelated ordinance has helped keep student population in check Jul 3, 2012 1:34 PM 97 new architecture, increased values, new additions and improvements Jul 3, 2012 12:46 PM 98 Increases property value. Appealing architecture. Attracts higher-income, more established residents. Jul 3, 2012 12:30 PM 99 See #3. Jul 3, 2012 9:43 AM 100 People investing in updating, remodeling of single family homes Increasing property values Jul 2, 2012 9:25 PM 101 Property values are increasing and with the same attitude The City of Boulder had toward regulations, a few will reap the rewards and the General population will loose out as people have to live out of town and drive in Jul 2, 2012 9:21 PM 102 The trolley is getting new tracks. The recession has kept construction and 'remodels' down. Avery house received a wonderful shake roof, and other houses are doing the same. Old town remains a lively place. Not all old cottonwoods are being cut down. Jul 2, 2012 6:32 PM 103 Good for real estate values. Jul 2, 2012 6:11 PM 104 n/a Jul 2, 2012 6:10 PM 105 nice landscaping (use a lot of water though), homes that needed love have been updated and maintained (instead of torn down). I see a lot more people biking/walking. Jul 2, 2012 4:17 PM 106 Recognition of the specialty character of the area. Jul 2, 2012 1:32 PM 107 Less riff-raff around Jul 2, 2012 1:07 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 24 Q5. Please list or describe any negative aspects of the neighborhood changes. 1 over population Jul 18, 2012 10:48 AM 2 The neighbors seem tense and grumpy over the additional building. Loss of trees has made our house hot since the older homes in the neighborhood do not have AC. Jul 17, 2012 10:05 PM 3 Aversion to home remodeling/expansion devalues homes and lowers resale values. Also,because of restrictions on improvements home maintenance is often dererred. The is too much rotting wood on houses on the West side. Jul 16, 2012 8:05 PM 4 truck traffic on Riverside Once in a while there is a train engineer who spends 20 minutes in the middle of the night making sure everyone has to wake up. 5 toots at EVERY intersection while walking the train through town Air quality Jul 16, 2012 8:42 AM 5 n/a Jul 16, 2012 8:21 AM 6 It's dangerous with college kids still in the area because of parties, fast driving or other behavior that jeopardize the safety of our children. I don't mind the college kids (I used to be one myself not too long ago!) but only if they are respectful of us and of their property...AKA picking up their trash, driving within the speed limit, dogs running away daily, etc. Jul 15, 2012 8:36 PM 7 New construction with homes that take up almost the entire lot, designed in a manner that does not fit in aesthetically. New million dollar projects, losing some of the tose great old trees. Jul 15, 2012 8:18 PM 8 As described in #3, we don't see these as positive changes; however, if the decision is between adding a second floor or extending the size of the first floor vs. building appartment buildings or condos, we would opt for the former. Jul 15, 2012 5:21 PM 9 loss of historic homes Jul 15, 2012 9:32 AM 10 multi family projects Jul 14, 2012 8:19 PM 11 none Jul 14, 2012 8:07 PM 12 none Jul 14, 2012 4:49 PM 13 Higher heat bills and less solar gain for house to the north of big houses. Less privacy for neighboring yards. Less sense of community. More drainage problems. Fewer gardening opportunities. Fewer housing opportunities for people of modest means, and increasing values and taxes cause the exodus of those who live here. Loss of historic streetscapes and buildings. More noise from air conditioners. Jul 14, 2012 3:19 PM 14 Perhaps restrictions by local government that do not allow property owners to make improvements, or make it more difficult for owners to make these improvements Jul 14, 2012 9:53 AM 15 Decrease in socioeconomic diversity among old town residents. Jul 14, 2012 8:32 AM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 25 16 Too many rentals not maintained Jul 13, 2012 11:06 AM 17 eyesore because these houses do not match historic character of neighborhood. Jul 13, 2012 8:44 AM 18 new construction is too large. overshadows existing neighbors and fills the entire lot. No sense of privacy or courtesy. blocks sunlight in smaller houses. Blocks view in some cases. changes the feel of the neighborhoods. New construction is nice, but does not necessarily fit in with the existing historic feel of the area. some rentals not well maintained. Jul 13, 2012 8:20 AM 19 Increased graffiti. More homes becoming rental properties. Jul 12, 2012 8:53 PM 20 rental properties are starting to show their wear. Jul 12, 2012 4:36 PM 21 More student renters is not positive. Fort the most part they don't care about the landscape and they make more noise than families do. Jul 12, 2012 4:22 PM 22 poor architecture of infill development Jul 12, 2012 12:32 PM 23 Remodels where huge additions will change the area from suburban residental, to urban residential, such as happened in the area west of Denver University. Jul 12, 2012 8:42 AM 24 I own a historic home and am willing to preserve its integrity as it stands, but if other houses around us continually expand/renovate and improve while ours is not allowed to, does not seem fair. Rules should be consistent and enforced. Code needs to be well established and all people need to play by the rules. Jul 11, 2012 5:42 PM 25 I can currently think of none. Jul 11, 2012 4:41 PM 26 Increased traffic Crime Poor water quality Crowding Lack of solar power and heating Difficulty with accessing fires, utilities, etc. due to homes too close to each other Jul 11, 2012 3:01 PM 27 Loss of community when developers who do not live at the properties they are building on make developments that are inconsistent with the history of the neighborhood. Jul 11, 2012 12:56 PM 28 On my particular block those who have elected to add on have done so with sensitivity -- with one exception. From hearing what others say, I know this is not the case in other part of the East/West neighborhoods. Jul 11, 2012 8:54 AM 29 houses that aren't in balance with other houses in the neighborhood, Jul 10, 2012 8:08 PM 30 A loss of what makes this part of town special. If you build big homes or cut down the trees, this neighborhood will be no different than a brand new neighborhood. The architecture and sense of history are what distunguishes Old Town. There are plenty of opportunities to live ina big home in Ft Collins so why change the homes here? Jul 10, 2012 6:22 PM 31 Over sized updates to old homes not keeping with the scale or original look to the homes Jul 10, 2012 4:34 PM 32 general consideration for property and possessions Jul 10, 2012 3:29 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 26 33 no comment Jul 10, 2012 2:05 PM 34 I feel that my council memver has had an agenda that doesn't represent the general public. The city has increased a focus on fee collection for parking, etc. The city acts as if they are HOA manager for Old Town which oversteps the rights of those who choose to live in an area that doesn't have management or an HOA The rental housing occupancy regulations were not clear and yet mandatory to avoid future fees--we are over governed when asked to re-permit properties that were historically permitted The City appears to the public as though they want to regulate house density, character and size in Old Town however, they allow new, super dense single family properties to be built all over town--Old Town North, Rigden, Harvest, Observatory Since we are out of developable space, we need to allow our citizens to grow and mature in Old Town and have homes that allow for growing families, allow garages big enough for lifestyles that live and play in Colorado. Jul 10, 2012 1:44 PM 35 I am not sure we would be able to buy the house we now live in if we were buying now. Jul 10, 2012 11:42 AM 36 As stated earlier - the pressure seems to be on neighbors to pay for legal support to enforce current standards against developers with deep pockets and the desire to build high density projects in the neighborhood?? Jul 10, 2012 9:42 AM 37 none negative Jul 10, 2012 8:40 AM 38 noise, trash Jul 10, 2012 7:19 AM 39 None Jul 9, 2012 9:20 PM 40 I wouldn't want to see the block become dominated by extra large houses. A mix of medium and small houses is preferable. Jul 9, 2012 8:00 PM 41 The flip side: property values have priced out some of the mix that was here. Jul 9, 2012 4:25 PM 42 n/a Jul 9, 2012 3:07 PM 43 fewer "funky" properties Jul 9, 2012 12:36 PM 44 A lack of building codes honoring the original integrity of Old Town buildings seems to be increasingly an issue. While this seems mostly in Old Town West, it is also happening on the East side. Massive houses diminish the intent of Old Town living, block the views, sun, and shade of nearby houses. Jul 9, 2012 12:28 PM 45 The degradation of our entire neighborhood through the neglect of rental properties, almost exclusively college rentals. These tenants are slobs and the landlords are apparently in it for nothing but the money, as evidenced by their total disregard for the condition of the properties they own and the condition and character of the neighborhood. Jul 9, 2012 11:55 AM 46 i suppose the negative is that i personally have not noticed any changes. The fire station on Prospect was remodeled, is the only new thing that comes to mind. Jul 9, 2012 11:29 AM 47 no sidewalks on our street, so many rentals that street is always full with parked cars Jul 9, 2012 11:19 AM 48 none Jul 9, 2012 10:16 AM 49 Again, I believe we have the right to remodel our homes as we see fit. Jul 9, 2012 8:18 AM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 27 50 some of the property improvements have been forced due to fc rules re rental properties at great expense to property owners Jul 9, 2012 8:05 AM 51 noise, loitering, litter Jul 8, 2012 6:41 PM 52 People are priced out of the market, a few houses are way too big Jul 8, 2012 2:15 PM 53 some homes too big, don't fit in Jul 8, 2012 12:19 PM 54 Boarding houses. Student rentals. Properties not maintained. CSU invading the east side. Jul 8, 2012 10:53 AM 55 none Jul 7, 2012 5:46 PM 56 Haven't noticed any negatives in our area Jul 7, 2012 2:17 PM 57 NONE! Absolutely NONE!! Jul 7, 2012 12:45 PM 58 None Jul 7, 2012 7:36 AM 59 In some instances (like on Wood) the houses just don't seem as if they were intended to fit. It's as if the owner/builder never imagined being friendly with the folks next door. That kind of aggression is unfortunate. Also, the departure of so many Hispanic families and immanent departure of more is a negative. Jul 6, 2012 6:25 PM 60 Occasional tear-down of historic home rather than merely improving the existing home, which loses some historic significance. Jul 6, 2012 5:41 PM 61 Desire to institutionalize positive aspects by forcing standards. Jul 6, 2012 12:56 PM 62 Bigger houses being rented and not being well cared for Jul 6, 2012 12:42 PM 63 Spending money on a non-essential window. Jul 6, 2012 12:11 PM 64 Some new construction in the general 'hood are garish monstrosities. Jul 6, 2012 11:28 AM 65 The historic character of the neighborhoods are being destroyed by teardowns and the building of large, out-of-scale McMansions to replace them. Jul 6, 2012 10:36 AM 66 large office towering over houses; tighter parking; past and planned construction (noise) Jul 6, 2012 8:37 AM 67 I can only think of one new home that was built in a style that was totally different than the surrounding homes. Jul 5, 2012 8:16 PM 68 Occasional disregard for historical architecture through expansion projects on some homes. Jul 5, 2012 4:19 PM 69 What good are increased property values if you don't want to live there anymore? Jul 5, 2012 3:51 PM 70 A lot of new/remodeled homes makes a neighborhood unaffordable for 1st-time homebuyers and working families, so it becomes a neighborhood of rich old people and absentee landlords. Also if the architecture is boring or inappropriate it is not cohesive with the rest of the neighborhood. It is sad to lose the historic old homes that are so full of character - but if that has Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 28 to be done they should be replaced with homes that replicate the historic style at least on the street frontage. Jul 5, 2012 1:36 PM 71 These large houses dwarf the homes next to them. I feel bad for the small 900 sq ft house that is now in shadow by the monstrosity going in next door. This drives property values up and will drive these homeowners out thus changing the character altogether. Jul 5, 2012 10:28 AM 72 Don't like big houses that are out of proportion to the neighbors. Don't like houses squeezed in on half of an existing lot. Jul 5, 2012 10:28 AM 73 I think many folks are living in rundown and unsafe housing because it is the only housing that is available to occupy. Jul 5, 2012 9:56 AM 74 See answer number 3. Jul 5, 2012 9:48 AM 75 The only potential negative in our own particular block would be if one house, for example, were to loom over all the others in a style that defies what exists. This hasn't happened, though we know some neighborhoods believe this has happened in theirs. Hence this survey and discussion. Jul 5, 2012 9:04 AM 76 Front yard vegetable gardens are a current trend. While most are fine 1516 Remington St has planted half their yard. When such a large space is planted a fence might be appropriate. Jul 5, 2012 8:42 AM 77 The large houses are not compatible with the existing small houses and are imposing when next door and take from the pattern of the neighborhood. Jul 5, 2012 8:35 AM 78 Can't think of any Jul 5, 2012 8:23 AM 79 back lot limits of over built houses distort the historic character of old town. Wood street has some particularly bloated looking houses that represent an excess that is not true to fort collins Craftsmen bungalow heritage. Jul 4, 2012 9:28 PM 80 Some HUGEmulti-storied houses being built that block out neighbors sunlight etc. Jul 4, 2012 7:36 PM 81 Changes the character of the neighborhood; changes the views and the sun and shade characteristics. Jul 4, 2012 4:08 PM 82 We haven't seen much negative although we are very concerned about proposed massive student housing complexes. Jul 4, 2012 8:42 AM 83 None, although the costs for a 3 bed 2 bath house in old town are exorbitant because the supply is so small. As the supply increases, prices should hopefully become more accessible. Jul 4, 2012 8:41 AM 84 Some of the homes are losing their historic charm and the integrity of the historical architecture fades. Most do a nice job of keeping in mind the feel of old town, but some expansion is too much, ie all house, no yard Jul 3, 2012 11:38 PM 85 Can't think of any? Jul 3, 2012 11:10 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 29 86 some build ups/outs and scrape offs with houses too big for their lots, edge to edge, and out of character with nearby houses, no porches and no chance to see neighbors except as they drive into a garage. Jul 3, 2012 10:18 PM 87 Can't think of any. Jul 3, 2012 5:47 PM 88 None of consequence Jul 3, 2012 5:06 PM 89 Adding huge additions to the old houses looks bad. You've got this little house with this huge building tacked on. Others replace the house completely and it's always a much bigger house. Jul 3, 2012 3:59 PM 90 There seems to be a trend of scraping old homes and rebuilding huge, out-ofcharacter monster homes, homes that take up too much of their lots. Jul 3, 2012 3:42 PM 91 none that I can name Jul 3, 2012 1:51 PM 92 We're too new to know. Jul 3, 2012 1:44 PM 93 *CSU on-campus stadium might be built, which some people (including self) fear will threaten the character and livability of neighborhood. *the expansion of some people's houses no longer fit the character of the neighborhood, and sometimes tower over the houses on either side. *alleys have more potholes nowadays Jul 3, 2012 1:37 PM 94 Oversize ugly houses Jul 3, 2012 12:46 PM 95 Doesn't fit the atmosphere of the area. Loss of historic homes. Jul 3, 2012 12:31 PM 96 too many cars parked on streets poorly maintained rental properties noisy and dirty traffic on Laurel and Whedbee - need to enforce sound ordinances... Jul 2, 2012 9:26 PM 97 When a city limits the size of a home that can be built on a lot, the entire community looses. Jul 2, 2012 9:22 PM 98 Rentals not taken care of, cars parked everywhere Jul 2, 2012 8:29 PM 99 See above. Jul 2, 2012 6:32 PM 100 Not enough space for all the new people entering the area. Jul 2, 2012 6:12 PM 101 As noted in previous answer, none in the 1yr we have lived here. However, oversized homes or changes that do not reflect the historical character of the neighborhood would be negative. Jul 2, 2012 6:11 PM 102 Loss of diversity, loss of privacy, increased property taxes, loss of character when houses are torn down. Increase in traffic. New houses crammed on small lots, sometimes 2 where there was only 1 house. No distance between housessmall houses get lost between 2 big ones that are practically touching it. Take a stroll down Wood St. between LaPorte and Elm- do we really want neighborhoods like that? Jul 2, 2012 4:22 PM 103 none Jul 2, 2012 3:39 PM 104 ??? Jul 2, 2012 1:08 PM Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 30 Q6. Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 31 Q7. Online Questionnaire Results Property Owners Page 32 Q8. Eastside & Westside Neighborhood Character Study -- Online Questionnaire Results -- TENANTS Staff mailed notices to all owners and residents in the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods (5,579 total) requesting they take the questionnaire. The three online questionnaires were available July 2-15. Slightly different versions were tailored for owners and tenants. A third version was available to other interested citizens. Responses were as follows:  115 Property owners  15 Tenants  158 Interested citizens 288 Total responses were received by July 15, 2012 ATTACHMENT 5 Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 2 Tenant Questionnaire Responses: Q1. What are some important aspects of your neighborhood that influence why you live there? 1 Bike Lanes, Close to campus and downtown Jul 15, 2012 10:29 AM 2 very close to Old Town. Historical homes and buildings.Diversity. More Liberal, more involved. Wide Streets!!!! Jul 15, 2012 9:57 AM 3 Quiet, fewer street lights than newly developed areas, walk/bike to Old Town, no HOA's, Beavers Grocery Store, friendly/ neighborly people Jul 13, 2012 7:50 AM 4 safety, community, character Jul 9, 2012 11:26 PM 5 The type of people, the character of the houses, the attitudes of the people around us, the history of the area Jul 9, 2012 8:36 PM 6 I live on the southwest corner of Olive and Peterson. I love living across from the library, well within walking distance of the entire Old Town area, hopefully far enough away from the CSU campus that there are few students in the neighborhood, and just far enough away from Old Town that I cannot hear music from bands and my street is not closed for festivities like parades and New West Fest. Jul 5, 2012 11:34 AM 7 Proximity - The proximity to downtown and other amenities. Aesthetics - The tree lined streets with detached sidewalks. Buildings that face the street without facades Dominated by garages. Mature vegetation that moderates urban heat island. Jul 5, 2012 9:51 AM 8 The houses are older and more unique; they have character. There are less students, so it's quieter. Many people own their houses rather than rent them to students, so the properties are better kept up. The streets feel familiar and safe to walk at night. Old town is an easy bike ride away. Jul 4, 2012 6:03 PM 9 Wide streets, mature trees, variety of homes, no HOA Jul 4, 2012 10:30 AM 10 Proximity to Old Town, older houses and trees Jul 2, 2012 11:12 PM 11 Most of the time it is nice and quite Jul 2, 2012 9:05 PM 12 Close to work. Close to campus. Like walking to downtown. Jul 2, 2012 8:41 PM 13 Proximity to Downtown/Old Town area, Quality of surrounding properties Jul 2, 2012 5:50 PM 14 It is quiet. There are some college/graduate students, but not too many and they don't have parties. It's got flavor of the old style of town. Jul 2, 2012 1:41 PM 15 Close to CSU Jul 2, 2012 1:12 PM Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 3 Q2. Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 4 Q3. What are some key changes that have occurred or are occurring in your neighborhood? 1 xeriscape yards Jul 15, 2012 10:30 AM 2 Some historic buildings and sites changed or eliminated, A lot of home renovations mostly good, A lot of high-end lofts built. Jul 15, 2012 10:17 AM 3 Four new houses across the street from me. Jul 13, 2012 7:53 AM 4 a lot of road construction Jul 9, 2012 11:27 PM 5 Younger people are moving in who have fresh ideas and attitudes, improvements to homes and yards to improve their appearance Jul 9, 2012 8:37 PM 6 Some houses in the neighborhood are fixing up their yards (landscaping and walkways). The library just finished a renovation and addition. A brewery may be opening in the future at the northwest corner of mathews and olive. Jul 5, 2012 11:38 AM 7 I am seeing smaller houses being scraped for the construction of new larger homes, there are two in progress on Montain Ave. I have also noted that street trees are nearing the end of their lifecycel and are being removed. I am happy to see that new trees are being planted. The urban forest is an important piece of infrastructure. Jul 5, 2012 9:57 AM 8 Restrictions being imposed by city council on homeowners rights to build or remodel their homes. Rather than encouraging redevelopment and offering incentives to make improvements, the city leadership is looking to impose their agenda on the citizens in these neighborhoods. The reality is that many of the homes in the area NEED to be fixed up and remodeled as they are in great disrepair. The city can encourage this if they choose too. Jul 4, 2012 10:34 AM 9 A house on our block has been turned into a business (corner of Whedbee and Mulberry) Jul 2, 2012 11:14 PM 10 Apartment building was built next door. Jul 2, 2012 8:43 PM 11 Home remodeling/building, street repair Jul 2, 2012 5:51 PM 12 The city trimmed a lot of the trees that were in danger after the big storm in late 2011. We've had a few deaths on the block lately, and the strength of the neighborhood was really nice. Jul 2, 2012 1:43 PM 13 Not sure, just moved into neighborhood Jul 2, 2012 1:12 PM Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 5 Q4. Please list or describe any positive aspects of the neighborhood changes. 1 less water use, landscaping more catered to the climate Jul 15, 2012 10:30 AM 2 Some street improvements. Jul 15, 2012 10:19 AM 3 Friendly people are moving in Jul 13, 2012 7:54 AM 4 smoother streets for easier biking Jul 9, 2012 11:30 PM 5 Landscaping adds to the visual aesthetic of the neighborhood, new people add fresh attitudes, friendly neighbors Jul 9, 2012 8:39 PM 6 The new yards look great and add to property value. The library is beautiful and hopefully attracts even more people. The brewery will add culture and competition to other breweries, while hopefully keeping the crowds under control. I think it is very important that the breweries, especially those in neighborhoods, keep their closing times at 6pm or 7pm. This is important for not allowing them to create a late night bar culture. Jul 5, 2012 11:41 AM 7 I am happy to see that people are investing in the neighborhood, which is not surprising given its amenities. Jul 5, 2012 9:58 AM 8 People are putting more thought into their homes now that their options are limited. I think this is good as creates more ownership in the building process. Jul 4, 2012 10:35 AM 9 none now Jul 2, 2012 9:06 PM 10 It is a student rental area and continues to be a strong rental draw for tenants. We have a small duplex but would like to expand for more units on the lot. Jul 2, 2012 8:44 PM 11 Home remodeling/building & street repair increases value of neighborhood Jul 2, 2012 5:52 PM 12 The city pruned nicely. There were no major structural changes. Jul 2, 2012 1:43 PM 13 Me moving in Jul 2, 2012 1:12 PM Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 6 Q5. Please list or describe any negative aspects of the neighborhood changes. 1 not as aesthetically pleasing as bluegrass Jul 15, 2012 10:31 AM 2 Some of the renovations are a bit extreme, I don't care for any historic building being removed or changed completely. Most of the new construction for housing is very high end and doesn't serve the traditional people of the area. Jul 15, 2012 10:23 AM 3 One of the houses is unduely large and changes the character of the area Jul 13, 2012 7:55 AM 4 eyesore and detours during construction Jul 9, 2012 11:30 PM 5 Some clutter accumulating detracts from the historic nature, recent work on the street left a non-uniform section of the street Jul 9, 2012 8:40 PM 6 The new brewery could choose to hold later hours, which will draw a more intoxicated crowd and disturb the neighbors. Jul 5, 2012 11:42 AM 7 When existing homes are removed for the construction of new homes, it is good that investments are being made where there is existing infrastructure. However, it can come at the cost of a decreasing diversity of housing stock, which is essential for maintaining a neighborhood that offers housing options for a variety of preferences and incomes. There is a danger that this will happen, over time, in this neighborhood. Jul 5, 2012 10:06 AM 8 It makes it more difficult for those who wish to make improvements. I believe that instead of imposing restrictions, the city should offer incentives. This is money well spent as you can achieve some of the same goals while supporting your constituents. Jul 4, 2012 10:37 AM 9 Construction was noisy, there are morecars and people I don't recognize on the street now. Jul 2, 2012 11:15 PM 10 none also Jul 2, 2012 9:07 PM 11 Yards are not watered. This street is right by campus. It will always attract student renters. The lots should allow a heavier density for rental expansion per lot. Jul 2, 2012 8:46 PM 12 Noise pollution from home remodeling/building & street repair, temporarily inaccessible streets during street repair, loss of historic character due to home remodeling/building Jul 2, 2012 5:53 PM 13 None. Jul 2, 2012 1:43 PM 14 None Jul 2, 2012 1:13 PM Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 7 Q6. Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 8 Q7. Online Questionnaire Results Tenants Page 9 Q8. Eastside & Westside Neighborhood Character Study -- Online Questionnaire Results -- INTERESTED CITIZENS Staff mailed notices to all owners and residents in the Eastside and Westside neighborhoods, 5,579 total, requesting they take the questionnaire. The three online questionnaires were available July 2-15. Slightly different versions were tailored for owners and tenants. A third version was available to other interested citizens. Responses were as follows:  115 Property owners  15 Tenants  158 Interested citizens 288 Total responses were received by July 15, 2012 Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 2 Interested Citizens Questionnaire Responses: Q1. In your opinion, what are some important aspects of the neighborhoods that influence why people want to live there? 1 Quiet neighborhood, wide streets, large trees, unique houses, friendly neighbors Jul 17, 2012 9:23 PM 2 They care about community and the environment. They like to be close to their neighbors and to the shops and city facilities. Jul 17, 2012 12:49 PM 3 Nice archetecture. Houses that meet modern standards (e.g., 4 bedrooms above ground, sitting room, family room, eat-in kitchen, office Jul 16, 2012 7:52 PM 4 Mature trees, bike lanes, diversity of house typologies and scale. Front porches. Jul 16, 2012 3:59 PM 5 - Proximity to Old Town - Young families seeking friendly, welcoming neighbors - Seniors looking for access to Old Town without having the drive Jul 16, 2012 9:35 AM 6 As relates to homes in Old Town, the selling factors are: 1.Walkability: walking distance to town and all necessities (grocery, banks, post office) as well as recreation (restuarants, movies, music, shops, parks, pools, bike paths). 2. Diverse Community: A mixed, diverse population: mixed ages, income levels, family sizes, all in close proximity to one another. 3. Rooted: Charming, older homes with history in a real neighborhood. 4. High Density/Flexibility: Ability to have mulitple families in one home ( whether non-related rentals or multigenerational "in-law" apartments). Jul 15, 2012 9:30 PM 7 Freedom from HOA and similar standards. Jul 15, 2012 4:28 PM 8 convenience to downtown; mature trees; most homes are well kept Jul 14, 2012 5:27 PM 9 Established neighborhood, character of the houses, proximity to old town Jul 13, 2012 5:21 PM 10 uniqueness of homes vs. cookie cutter diversity of people proximity of schools, churches, shopping, restaurants easy (not to imply safe) bike access definitely not the trains and their noise! proximity to CSU good investment = limited supply of old homes as subdevelopments abound mature trees/shade liberal/progressive/independent neighbors culture and history Jul 13, 2012 5:21 PM 11 Older homes, mature trees, proximity to old town. Jul 13, 2012 5:16 PM 12 historic character of homes, not just big houses on small lots, Jul 13, 2012 4:00 PM 13 Walking distance to amenities including campus, mature landscape, diversity of housing. Jul 13, 2012 3:44 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 3 14 diversity of people, houses and neighborhoods. No HOA Pedestrian and bike friendly Jul 13, 2012 12:28 PM 15 Design and character consistent the era of construction Uniqueness relative to other neighborhoods Proximity to Old Town and CSU Jul 13, 2012 11:31 AM 16 close to downtown, large mature tree, mix of housing types, vibrancy of student mix. Jul 13, 2012 8:12 AM 17 walkable streets; architectural diversity; closeness to OT, parks, good schools, CSU; It's Old Town. Jul 12, 2012 8:56 PM 18 proximity to old town, parks, river and trails. small community feeling within a university town Jul 12, 2012 5:57 PM 19 Community, safety, school system Jul 12, 2012 3:06 PM 20 Sense of place, walkability, freedom of expression, comfortable scale (this does not mean everything needs to be a bungalow), acceptance of variety, sidewalks, protective, safe and interesting streetscapes and the presence of mature trees/shade, sounds of wind through the branches, birds.....sense of place a location of self-expression through architecture and site. Jul 12, 2012 2:45 PM 21 proximity to old town, proximity to CSU Jul 12, 2012 11:26 AM 22 Easy access to work without a vehicle. Mature vegetation. Less traffic. Jul 12, 2012 7:01 AM 23 proximity to old town, character of homes, old neighborhoods...not suburbia Jul 11, 2012 10:48 PM 24 Trees, proximity to old town, character of houses, neighborhood feel Jul 11, 2012 6:50 PM 25 Original architectural charm, friendly neighbors, access to old town, ability to bike and walk. Jul 11, 2012 5:48 PM 26 Old Town is a wonderful location to great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods. Jul 11, 2012 4:12 PM 27 Assuming you are referring to these two particular neighborhoods: trees, accessibility to downtown via alternative modes of transportation, character of historical homes and wide streets, lack of HOA restrictions, proximity to CSU, proximity to bike trails, diversity of residents Jul 11, 2012 1:55 PM 28 wide streets, shady streets and yards from mature trees, houses with character that aren't cookie cutter houses, no HOA, close to shopping and entertainment. Jul 11, 2012 1:25 PM 29 close to city park, historical feeling about the area, close to old town, "original Ft Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 4 Collins" Jul 11, 2012 1:22 PM 30 Unique houses, mixed lot sizes, character of the neighborhood, quiet streets, lots of trees Jul 11, 2012 1:08 PM 31 Quiet, pretty, lots of trees, easy to get around by bicycle. Jul 11, 2012 11:39 AM 32 near downtown diversity in people and architecture no hoa's liveliness of downtown atmosphere proximity to csu Jul 11, 2012 11:25 AM 33 Safe, family friendly, aesthetic appeal Jul 11, 2012 11:19 AM 34 Walkable neighborhoods, with tree-shaded parkways, wide streets and detached sidewalks. Amenities that predate the automobile era, like large front porches, garages off of alleys or in rear yards. Variety of social and economic demographics, and the resulting variety of housing sizes, styles and quality. Jul 11, 2012 11:13 AM 35 Neighborhood feel, close to old Town, fun to ride bikes everywhere. Jul 11, 2012 10:34 AM 36 safe play to play, walk & bike kids can be outside homes & gardens are well maintained-owners care about property & neighbors issues are resolved quickly the people! good schools access to parks, restaurants, shops, etc constant improvement festivals and events Jul 11, 2012 10:03 AM 37 Walking city lifestyle, with all needed businesses, services and entertainments within several blocks of residence. Jul 11, 2012 8:06 AM 38 neighborhood feel community access to old town historic structures/architecture Jul 11, 2012 7:47 AM 39 Dunn Elementary school, walk and bike to Old Town and CSU, big trees, wide streets, great neighbors. Jul 10, 2012 10:14 PM 40 - Old homes that are beautiful and have a lot of historical character. - Close to downtown shopping, restaurants, music events, miscellaneous community events, etc. - Like minded neighbors who care about our community. - Large lots - room for gardens, social gatherings, pets, etc. - Well landscaped areas. Jul 10, 2012 9:47 PM 41 Community, proximity to town, freedom from HOA, fun, character of many of the homes. Jul 10, 2012 6:47 PM 42 character Jul 10, 2012 6:19 PM 43 The charm of original architecture and design that reflect the history of the "original" Fort Collins. From the craftsmen homes on Mountain to sugar beet farmer/railroad worker shacks around Martinez Park, you feel transported back to the towns past. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 5 Jul 10, 2012 6:13 PM 44 Being close to old town all major attractions city park etc. Jul 10, 2012 5:12 PM 45 Beautiful yards, diversity of neighbors who are generally liberal, lovely old wood homes with character, ability to walk most places.... Jul 10, 2012 3:55 PM 46 historic character of buildings close to downtown walk-able bike-able mature landscaping diverse population- age, income, ethnicity diverse housing stock no HOA's Jul 10, 2012 3:13 PM 47 older homes, variety of homes (affordability, size, appearance...), sense of history and community, mature landscapes. Jul 10, 2012 12:36 PM 48 Homes are unique, plentiful trees, access to downtown, neighbors are friendly, quiet, good place for families. Good mix of all age groups. Jul 10, 2012 11:43 AM 49 Walkability, good schools Jul 10, 2012 10:54 AM 50 The "feel" and appearance of the neighborhood, including style of houses and how well they are maintained, whether there are trees and nice landscaping, whether people are outside interacting with each other, and children are outside playing. Jul 10, 2012 10:31 AM 51 Small-town feel. Streets on a grid, with vegetated right-of-ways. Pedestrian and bicycle friendly. Many mature trees. Houses with front yards. Houses with an oldstyle look, porches, and garages behind the house. Close to Old Town. Close to established parks. Jul 10, 2012 9:56 AM 52 walkability, bikeability, access to Old Town and City Park, like-minded neighbors/community (e.g., interested in the outdoors, beer ;-), etc.) Jul 10, 2012 8:09 AM 53 Close to DT. Close to CSU. Close to City Park (westside). Dunn School (westide) IB at Poudre High School. Mature landscaping. Eclectic architectural character. Jul 10, 2012 7:27 AM 54 lifestyle, trees, old architecture, walking access to Old Town. Jul 9, 2012 9:41 PM 55 The character and charm of the older homes that you can no longer find because they are becoming more and more rare. Jul 9, 2012 8:41 PM 56 Sense of community. Diversity of homes, people (ages, socioeconomic ranges, careers, education levels, etc.) and cultures. Established neighborhoods with older houses, large shade trees, alleys, etc. Proximity to Old Town, especially because it's within biking distance. Jul 9, 2012 8:16 PM 57 It's 100% walkable, the old houses/neighborhoods give a sense of history and rootedness, neighborhood schools provide community and help connect people. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 6 Jul 9, 2012 7:36 PM 58 Proximity to down town. Houses are charming. Large/mature trees. No HOA. Jul 9, 2012 2:00 PM 59 Attractiveness of the houses; friendliness of the neighbors; closeness to amenities--within walking distance; variety of people and style of houses--not cookie cutter suburban. Attractive schools. Jul 9, 2012 1:56 PM 60 The architecture and character - the lovely old homes and buildings that do not exist anywhere else in Fort Collins. The tree-lined streets, deep lots for gardens, and the human-scaled size and height. Jul 9, 2012 1:20 PM 61 Historic Charm and relative calm bikeable streets. Jul 9, 2012 10:40 AM 62 trees, proximity to downown - ability to walk there, sense of community, noncookie cutter feeling of architecture Jul 9, 2012 10:26 AM 63 The eclectic nature of the buildings and people living in them that is not defined by any code or criteria establised by the city. Jul 9, 2012 9:37 AM 64 Friendly people with well take-cared houses and yards. Jul 8, 2012 9:41 PM 65 Diversity of people, character of houses, proximity to Old Town, cost, value of aesthetics over square footage found South of Harmony, transiting neighborhood, a lot of young families Jul 8, 2012 9:27 PM 66 Retaining historic character Liveability, walkability Accessibility to restaurants, shops and services Friendliness Safety Jul 8, 2012 3:01 PM 67 These areas have the original craftsman houses that bring people in general a nostalgic, warm feeling of a time more simple and possibly a bit more bucolic than the newer suburban manicured areas. Jul 8, 2012 2:24 PM 68 trees, older homes, sidewalks, slower pace, more neighborly feel, pedestrian friendly Jul 8, 2012 2:02 PM 69 Older, smaller homes close to schools. Feeling of community in the neighborhood. Jul 8, 2012 1:32 PM 70 Diverse mix of classic architectural styles of houses, convenience to Old Town, CSU, & City Park, mature trees, wide side walks, bike lanes, trolley, mostly owner-occupied, and good neighbors. Jul 7, 2012 10:59 PM 71 it's look safety charm/history proximity to the 'action' of a city Jul 7, 2012 10:18 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 7 72 Houses with historic styling and character (vs. new construction that lacks craftsmanship and styling of previous eras). Neighbors who value the lifestyle and sense of community fostered by these historic areas of the city and their walking-distance proximity to downtown, parks and other amenities. Neighbors who appreciate the history of our community and the styling of existing old-town architecture. The historic architecture is integral to the community that exists here. Jul 7, 2012 9:22 PM 73 distance to old town Jul 7, 2012 8:21 PM 74 Downtown, detached walks, old trees, unique houses, walkability, connection to neighbors Jul 7, 2012 5:58 PM 75 older homes with character, friendly neighbors, large shade trees, easy access to old town and university, Jul 7, 2012 4:08 PM 76 Proximity to downtown, the university, the river. Mature landscapes and beautiful older homes. Jul 7, 2012 10:39 AM 77 The feeling of living in an established neighborhood, a quality that is due in large part to older homes and landscaping (mature trees, nice yards). Also, house appearance/character, lot size (homes not too close together), and proximity to amenities of Old Town. Jul 7, 2012 10:38 AM 78 character, history, proximity to downtown Jul 6, 2012 5:04 PM 79 Proxcimity to downtown, Character of homes, trees, quiet streets, affordability Jul 6, 2012 3:14 PM 80 Clean, safe, retain value, schools Jul 6, 2012 2:28 PM 81 Proximity to downtown. Residential. Large number of owner occupied homes. Mature trees. Historic homes. People put effort into their home/landscaping. Jul 6, 2012 11:51 AM 82 Walking enviroment the city has not been able to replicate anywhere else in town. Jul 6, 2012 11:38 AM 83 Historic character, diversity, no HOAs, Jul 6, 2012 11:35 AM 84 Look and feel of the neighborhood; The people the neignborhood attracts; the diversity of the people and houses;proximity to Old Town, Jul 6, 2012 11:35 AM 85 For the West Side, access to the Poudre River and trail and proximity to Old Town. The mixture of housing types and styles. Diversity of neighbors. Big, mature trees. So easy to bike and walk. So many people biking and walking to parks and Old Town. It's just one of the best crown jewels of Fort Collins Jul 6, 2012 11:24 AM 86 Diversity in homes, prices, trees, wide streets, friendly area, close to downtown, Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 8 close to CSU, atmosphere of old town and character, Jul 6, 2012 11:19 AM 87 close to shopping and entertainment. Historic character of homes. Neighborhood feel. Jul 6, 2012 11:17 AM 88 Architecture of the houses Proximity to Old Town, CSU, schools Community nature of neighborhoods Jul 6, 2012 11:11 AM 89 Large trees, unique homes, urban, walking distance to all, proximity to schools. Jul 6, 2012 10:19 AM 90 Historic qualities, closeness to Old town and significant architecture, plus tall trees and lots of shade Jul 6, 2012 10:09 AM 91 Proximity to downtown and community amenities such as Lee Martinez and City Park. No HOA regulating what people can/can't do with their homes. Diversity of neighborhood - not every house looks the same Jul 6, 2012 10:02 AM 92 the lifestyle - being able to walk or ride a bike everywhere! the diversity of the housing stock as well as the diversity of the people who occupy them Jul 6, 2012 9:32 AM 93 I can't tell you what influences other people; that would be stupid of me to answer that. I can say that *I* am looking for a reasonable price, some architectural charm, and convenient location. Jul 5, 2012 10:03 PM 94 walkability, bikability, mature trees, proximity to downtown, neighborhoods are on person scale Jul 5, 2012 3:46 PM 95 Eastside: quiet, safe, steady property values, good schools Jul 5, 2012 2:44 PM 96 proximity to downtown is the main reason. also the atmosphere of wide, treelined streets, some older homes with character, etc. Jul 5, 2012 8:58 AM 97 sense of community, distance from Old Town, ability to walk and bike to Old Town, ease of shopping local Jul 4, 2012 10:11 PM 98 Access to downtown, friendly community, wide streets, variety of homes (prices, sizes, etc.) Jul 4, 2012 8:18 PM 99 Walking distance to Old Town shops, restaurants and activities, mature landscaping, population diversity. Jul 4, 2012 7:11 PM 100 Safety, sense of community, visual appeal. Jul 4, 2012 3:07 PM 101 The wide streets, great buildings, and small-town atmosphere. In addition, the proximity to Old Town and all its restaurants and shopping. Jul 4, 2012 11:04 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 9 102 Pedestrian and bicycle friendly. Safe streets with low speeds and low traffic. Low instances of property crime. Accessibility to Csu and old town. Safe and good schools. Jul 4, 2012 10:35 AM 103 History, uniqueness, proximity to down town, diversity Jul 4, 2012 10:22 AM 104 Standard of living and proximity to Downtown Jul 4, 2012 9:48 AM 105 character, convience Jul 4, 2012 9:24 AM 106 tall trees, low traffic volume, interesting and different houses (many historical), a neighborly feeling, close to downtown Jul 4, 2012 9:13 AM 107 The turn-of-the-century architecture and proximity to Downtown Fort Collins and the CSU campus. Jul 4, 2012 8:11 AM 108 Located close to downtown, schools and has the charm of olden days. Jul 4, 2012 7:25 AM 109 Old Town nearby - mature homes and landscapes - neighborhoods rather than developments - no HOAs - and the festivals, music, community, character of the Old Town area - NOT BEIGE of SoPro developments Jul 3, 2012 9:21 PM 110 Proximity to downtown. Jul 3, 2012 8:07 PM 111 Walkability, proximity to City Park, Beaver's Market, trees Jul 3, 2012 6:01 PM 112 mature landscaping, quiet streets, close to downtown, eclectic character, friendly neighbors, hip and cool place, cultural diversity, an "up and coming" place (property values likely going up). Jul 3, 2012 4:19 PM 113 The character of the old homes (not anywhere USA/suburbia), the distance to Old Town and the principles of renewal (fixing up/living in old homes rather than buying new construction), and community. A neighbor told me the other day, ' you don't live in old town because you have money, you live in old town because it is cool.' Jul 3, 2012 3:53 PM 114 Proximity to old town Historical neighborhood Close to city park Bike trails Jul 3, 2012 3:19 PM 115 Proximity to downtown/Old Town, established trees & other vegetation, appealing architecture, homes with historic character and well designed quality infill and the ability to bring aging and deteriorating properties up-to-date. Jul 3, 2012 2:25 PM 116 proximity to city cultural activities diversity Jul 3, 2012 2:19 PM 117 Close to Old Town; Large trees; Smaller homes; No ridiculous cul-de-sacs; Walkability Jul 3, 2012 12:58 PM 118 sense of overall community - residential - general flavor of the homes,landscaping,positive attitudes,location to old town Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 10 Jul 3, 2012 12:50 PM 119 Old Town charm, expecially in housing that has not been extensively remodeled. Jul 3, 2012 12:32 PM 120 Proximity to and being part of a diverse, vibrant, tolerant lifestyle. Jul 3, 2012 11:56 AM 121 In no particular order: Traditional neighborhood ambiance; proximity to old town businesses; mature trees; lack of restrictive covnants. Jul 3, 2012 11:38 AM 122 Older homes. Trees. Proximity to Old Town. Demographics. Jul 3, 2012 10:46 AM 123 The neighborhoods are close to downtown, they are sidewalk friendly, bicycle friendly, good neighbors who hang together, and the historic character of the neighborhood, complete (generally) with large yards and alleys! Jul 3, 2012 10:06 AM 124 Uniqueness and diversity of the homes/preservation of older homes/diversity of the people who live in the area/closeness to downtown/a close knit feeling and sense of shared values among those who live in this area/bike friendly facilities and routes Jul 3, 2012 8:52 AM 125 Proximity to CSU campus, Old Towne area and green spaces. Jul 3, 2012 8:35 AM 126 yards, established trees, older style houses, good neighbors Jul 3, 2012 8:26 AM 127 1. Close to CSU 2. Close to downtown (old town) 3. Mature trees along streets 4. Straight streets on grid pattern (no 1970's type curvy subdivision streets with cull-de-sacs) 5. Small, older houses have character but are also still affordable. 6. Alleys! Yeah! Alleys are great. Why did developers give up on alleys? 7. Garages, parking and trash bins in the alleys, not off the main street. Jul 3, 2012 8:23 AM 128 Covenience; "real" Fort Collins feel, rather than the blandness, antiseptic sameness of south side of town Jul 3, 2012 8:20 AM 129 Trees, community, walking distance to restaurants, bars, shopping, library, banks, and other businesses. High property values with almost guaranteed growth Jul 3, 2012 8:17 AM 130 I believe that people want to live in both neighborhoods for proximity to downtown: the businesses, the entertainment, the restaurants. Walkability and bikability is key. The Eastside neighborhood seems to attract more students and is more desirable from an affordability standpoint. There seems to be greater affluence in the Westside neighborhood. Jul 3, 2012 8:12 AM 131 The character of the buildings, they are old. New buildings would not provide the same feel. Also, most are owner occupied in my area, that is what maintains the caring and integrity of this very valuable and historic area. Jul 3, 2012 12:39 AM 132 Alleys, lots of trees/shade, sidewalks recessed from street, large lots, near best park (City Park) with outdoor swimming pool, close to Old Town, older, more unique homes Jul 2, 2012 10:44 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 11 133 Urban (as opposed to suburban) living, close to downtown and university, possibility bike and walk for almost all daily activities, less car-oriented layout and buildings, old neighborhood with established trees and houses with individual character. Jul 2, 2012 10:29 PM 134 Walkability, convenience, neighborliness, (ability to see and visit with neighbors), visually pleasing and architecturally unique. Jul 2, 2012 9:51 PM 135 Easy access by foot, bike or auto to the Old Town/downtown area businesses, area sponsored activities i.e. festivals, art shows, farmer's market, etc; quiet & safe residential areas; good schools; responsive city services & more. Jul 2, 2012 9:50 PM 136 Older homes, mature trees, walkability, proximity to Old Town, community feel. Jul 2, 2012 9:37 PM 137 Proximity to Old Town, community-ortiented neighborhoods, historic older homes Jul 2, 2012 9:36 PM 138 sense of community, quiet, diversity of people, garden space, character of structures, sidewalks, Jul 2, 2012 9:30 PM 139 Proximity to Old Town, character of homes Jul 2, 2012 9:04 PM 140 Accessibility to Old Town, campus, library park Interesting historic architecture Trees (although they can be a main in the neck) Jul 2, 2012 9:03 PM 141 Sidewalks, porches, alleys, garages on alleys rather than in front, proximity to downtown shops and CSU, houses with character and style (some of them), mature trees (especially the elms), bike paths. Jul 2, 2012 8:58 PM 142 Walkability, proximity to Old Town, Character, & Community. Jul 2, 2012 8:39 PM 143 Unique character of the architecture Diversity is embraced Pedestrian-friendly Proximity to downtown and university Jul 2, 2012 8:14 PM 144 Access to Old Town, Trees, Established and unique homes Jul 2, 2012 8:13 PM 145 I feel that people choose the neighborhoods based on the "old town" feel or on the "new town" feel. I feel as if we choose to live in old town it is because we appreciate the older homes with character. They are unique in the sense that many homes are small and we appreciate the importance of having a yard with neighbors with similar interests. Jul 2, 2012 8:08 PM 146 proximity to Old Town, Quaintness of older homes, Strong since of estabilished community Jul 2, 2012 8:06 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 12 147 Character, charm, proximity to CSU Jul 2, 2012 7:58 PM 148 limited traffic- single lanes, stop signs instead of lights pedestrian sidewalks bikeways, access to bike trails stable family-oriented households few rentals owner occupied big trees green spaces, parks, golf courses proximity to retails areas, especially small, local businesses no big box stores Jul 2, 2012 7:41 PM 149 The proximity of the neighborhoods to old town shops and restaurants. The ability of individuals to bike around the downtown area and neighborhoods. The old town older home architecture, not the "cookie cutter" home architecture. The proximity to city parks and outdoor activities. Jul 2, 2012 7:14 PM 150 architecture details, community feel, safe areas, well kept properties, low numbers of rentals, low numbers of occupants in rentals, good parks, good schools, easy to walk and bike (ie good sidewalks and bike lanes), good trees for shade and enjoyment, friendly people, knowing your neighbors, city park and other ammenities, slow traffic, Jul 2, 2012 7:00 PM 151 proximity to Old Town businesses and CSU, mature trees, historic homes, walkability, family-friendly, proximity to City Park, has character - not like cookiecutter new subdivisions Jul 2, 2012 6:46 PM 152 Community/neighborliness, quaintness, classic home styles, large trees, architectural variety, proximity to downtown Old Town. Jul 2, 2012 5:59 PM 153 Proximity to Old Town shops and restaurants and trails, diversity of housing types, diversity of people, no HOA or over-zealous zoning. Jul 2, 2012 5:56 PM 154 A true sense of uniqueness. As people strive for this in themselves they also look for this in their neighborhood. Whether that means interesting restaurants, sculpture gardens, fountains, or music venues, people want to feel their home is special in some way unique to that place. Jul 2, 2012 5:50 PM 155 Proximity to City Park, proximity to Old Town, proximity to Mulberry St., unique non-cookie-cutter houses, easily bikeable Jul 2, 2012 5:49 PM 156 close to downtown: houses with plaster walls & wood floors & character; mature landscaping: great neighbors Jul 2, 2012 4:35 PM 157 Many of the current residences are attractive to people looking to buy a home that is appropriate to square footage that meets their needs and is located in an area that is convenient to retail establishments that can be reached without a car. Jul 2, 2012 4:31 PM 158 Houses of character, and the characters in the houses! Jul 2, 2012 4:26 PM 159 Established community, variety of architectural styles, proximity to old town and parks. Jul 2, 2012 4:19 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 13 Q2. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 14 Q3. What are some key changes you see that have occurred or are occurring? 1 Too many properties are being built up with additions or complete renewals that are not proportionally in step with neighboring residences. Or are used for rental purposes that don't account for enough parking and are NOT visually in keep with the character of the neighborhood. Jul 17, 2012 12:56 PM 2 Too much restriction on permitting homeowners to remodel to bring their homes to modern standards while maintaining character. Jul 16, 2012 7:54 PM 3 Generous bike lanes, proactive trimming of trees are positives. Taking out entire large mature trees is a negative. And the TRAIN is the biggest negative with it seeming like there are more trains than ever and LOUDER THAN EVER. Jul 16, 2012 4:03 PM 4 - A willingness to rehabilitate an older/historic home. Having grown up in Western New York, this type of rehabilitation if a foreign idea. We are very lucky. - I feel a next wave is trying to take advantage of the wave described above. We fixed our homes up and invested in our neighborhoods. The next wave is trying to take advantage of the home values increase (from the rehabilitation work) by building enormous homes for two people close to retirement. These home are a safe investment risk because of the work my fellow neighbors have put into their smaller homes (keep property values higher). - City has done a wonderful job adding bike lanes and improving old sidewalks. I feel lucky everyday that I can ride to work on a safe route. Jul 16, 2012 9:42 AM 5 CpEase up the rules on rental apartment on West side. I want to be able to legally rent out my basement apartment! My next door neighbor can, thanks to Grandfathering in, but I cannot. Jul 15, 2012 9:34 PM 6 The City of Fort Collins keeps trying to govern areas much like an association would do. Jul 15, 2012 4:30 PM 7 Some new houses are too large for lots; rental properties interspersed with owner occupied Jul 14, 2012 5:30 PM 8 More families are moving in and improving homes. Less college rentals and run down properties. Jul 13, 2012 5:28 PM 9 things have been pretty status quo in the neighborhood around our house for the past two years Jul 13, 2012 5:25 PM 10 Lots of additions. Some demolitions. Loss of large trees. Jul 13, 2012 5:19 PM 11 people tearing down small houses and building big ones, people expanding small homes to big ones Jul 13, 2012 4:01 PM 12 deterioration of neighborhoods and structures. fewer families moving into Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 15 neighborhoods due to high student rental demand.more traffic, less parking more chaos. Jul 13, 2012 3:56 PM 13 Socioeconomic change: becoming much more upscale. Neighbors are not as excepting of the diversity although they claim to like the diversity Jul 13, 2012 12:30 PM 14 Investment in the neighborhood which is a positive rather than a negative. Jul 13, 2012 11:44 AM 15 worn out houses fixed up, remodelled Jul 13, 2012 8:13 AM 16 conversion from smaller to larger houses that do not fit within the context of the existing neighborhoods. Jul 12, 2012 8:57 PM 17 razing smaller homes and building (much) bigger homes/townhomes, sometimes multiple dwellings on one lot Jul 12, 2012 5:59 PM 18 more traffic, cars too fast on street, more door to door solicitors Jul 12, 2012 3:08 PM 19 Random restrictions by hasty unstudied planning principles and ordinances using FAR as a guideline to curtail architectural expression in a manner that has alluded neighbors and interested parties to the detriment of character development and ultimate preservation of aesthetic value as well as market value. Jul 12, 2012 2:48 PM 20 ?? new to the neighborhood Jul 12, 2012 11:28 AM 21 I have been in my home since 1986. The inability or unwillingness to take care of property vegetation and home maintenance. The rental properties are the worst and there are several owners who are not much better. Due to the lack of funds(?), the City does not take care of the alley grading and overgrown vegetation as before. City Park has not been maintained as well as it should be. Trash, overgrown vegetation, sloppy mowing and no trimming. Street infrastructure, i.e. pavement, sidewalks, curb and gutter are all deteriorating. Jul 12, 2012 7:12 AM 22 mason street changes, new businesses, Jul 11, 2012 10:53 PM 23 Bigger houses Jul 11, 2012 6:51 PM 24 The west side, particularly close to Lee Martinez Park appear to be undergoing some gentrification and thus it is beginning to be more appealing and appear safer. Jul 11, 2012 5:50 PM 25 The dopey new MAX -- what a debacle! And they want to call it 'high speed' -- what a laugh! Jul 11, 2012 4:15 PM 26 Inappropriate size to lot ratio & height in redevelopment; lack of friendliness and sensitivity from newer owners to the pre-existing culture of the neighborhood; Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 16 exploitation of historic and smaller homes to make a profit by developers or newer owners seeing it as their inherent right as property owners to change their existing home to accommodate personal benefit at the expense of what is already an established pattern for the block or street. Jul 11, 2012 2:07 PM 27 inappropriate house expansion, city being overly lenient with neighborhoods (ignoring them), even though there are no HOAs, there needs to be some concern for property upkeep, some rentals/owners are lowering the 'feel' of area Jul 11, 2012 1:31 PM 28 art in public places and the injection of modern structures Jul 11, 2012 1:26 PM 29 Houses being built that do not fit in (new mod homes on corner of Mulberry Shields) Jul 11, 2012 1:09 PM 30 downtown seems to be changing from a lot of rentals to more owner occupied. I believe this is due to the higher cost of real estate that makes it less profitable to sustain rental. This also is adding to a more positive family environment that is showing in increase enrollment in our neighborhood schools. Specifically Laurel and Dunn Elementary. Jul 11, 2012 11:29 AM 31 Otterbox creep. Love their commitment to maintaining/upgrading the exterior of the older homes they have purchased so that the aesthetic of neighborhood remains but it's changing the flavor of the neighborhood more toward commercial. Jul 11, 2012 11:23 AM 32 More young families moving into the neighborhood, with many more children than there used to be. The young families are needing house sizes and modern amenities that are not available in many older homes, spurring additions and infill construction. Real estate values have increased dramatically over the past 15 years in the Old Town area. Jul 11, 2012 11:16 AM 33 improved gardens home reno/improvement rental issues being addressed by police more familys on bikes and walking kids playing freely Jul 11, 2012 10:05 AM 34 Fewer owner occupied, more rentals, thus less care of landscaping, maintenance and overall investment. Higher incidence of vandalism, drug use and vagrancy in alleys, due to lack of investment in alley upkeep. Jul 11, 2012 8:10 AM 35 traffic threat of high density infill in neighborhoods shift in demographics due to property values Jul 11, 2012 7:49 AM 36 Houses are being remodeled so families can move in, the old houses are too small. I think it is great and I like to see the houses fit with the style of Old town Jul 10, 2012 10:15 PM 37 - New residences are being built that don't match historic neighborhood integrity. I don't mind new construction, I do mind houses that stick out like a sore thumb! - Rental properties and multi family units seem to be on the rise downtown. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 17 Jul 10, 2012 9:50 PM 38 More people biking, lots of renovations, more veggie gardens, more students on the streets late at night making a lot of noise, more people upgrading yet keeping with the character of the neighborhood. Jul 10, 2012 6:52 PM 39 I sold my house on the 500 block of North Whitcomb St., due to these types of issues. We lost over 20 trees in 4 years, due to 3 scrapes on a block of 5 houses. I used to enjoy a bird highway, deer in the backyard, a green wall around the yard. The new neighbors tore trees down, and did not regard anything around them when designing their houses (Stratton Homes). The new house to the south had its dining room window staring in my bathroom! We asked neighbors to consider what was already there (we knew from the house they built 2 doors down that they this would be a major concern). They proceeded to show up with a bulldozer and cut down a 60+ ft. elm tree (mostly on our property)! We added on to our house, loved the location and privacy of so many trees. 6 years later, had to sell the house- we were living in a fish bowl! I had more privacy in my friends apartment in Manhattan! Overall, no regard for present architecture, design, horticulture, or scale of surrounding buildings. Stratton Homes seem to share this problem, I can't believe they don't violate fire codes, easements, etc? There need to be more regulations to maintain the character of the neighborhood, it's become a free for all! Jul 10, 2012 6:28 PM 40 allowing large expansions of homes that truely takes away the character of the neigborhood Jul 10, 2012 6:24 PM 41 Houses used to have a limitation on the expansion they could have done on them ie. the expansion couldn't be more than 2/3 the lot size or something like that. I think the city at some point threw that out the window I have seen more and more renovations go overboard compared to the lot size Huge house on not a lot of lot anymore what happened? Jul 10, 2012 5:15 PM 42 Too LARGE of homes crammed into oldtown lots, ruins light, view, lif for neighbors. Jul 10, 2012 3:57 PM 43 - small/affordable houses being torn down and replaced with much larger, modern houses - loss of historic homes - setbacks from the street and neighbors getting smaller or changing from current pattern - VERY steep side slopes on new homes causing flooding of neighbors homes (Wood St. & Grant/Cherry) - much larger, taller houses that block sun light on neighbors yards, particularly when new taller house is to the south of older home - ugly, blockish additions without windows that are eyesores - house on south side of W Oak near corner with Washington that has the front porch raised up about 4 feet with long steps making the house REALLY tall and overbearing to neighbor houses...another eyesore Jul 10, 2012 3:18 PM 44 Loss of sunlight from inappropriately tall structures and uncomfortable neighbor relations because of it. Box-type rental structures with no curb appeal. Builders buying up smaller older homes and scraping them and building large expensive homes (eliminating them from the lower income and start-up market). Jul 10, 2012 12:50 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 18 45 Too many rentals with people who do not maintain homes. They are only here for a short time and the history and value of the neighborhood is not a priority. Parking and walking to CSU is rampant. Jul 10, 2012 11:45 AM 46 New families moving in, updating of architecture, modernizing of possibilities with accordance to materials and landscaping Jul 10, 2012 10:57 AM 47 Smaller homes torn down and replaced with much larger, more modern styled homes that do not fit the "vernacular" of the neighborhood Jul 10, 2012 10:33 AM 48 * House remodels/replacements that are too large for the lot and the out of scale with the neighborhood. * Mason St corridor allowing non-car access southward. Jul 10, 2012 10:06 AM 49 trend towards younger residents Jul 10, 2012 8:10 AM 50 The single biggest change is in the appeal of urban living. Almost all the factors cited in Question #2 relate to the attractiveness of an urban environment. The only place to really get it is in the Old Town residential neighborhoods. Of course there are bigger houses and smaller houses. That's part of the appeal and adds enormously to the diversity in these neighborhoods. The real threat is conversion of existing housing inventory to investment properties, NOT the expansion of existing single-family homes for growing families or for individual preferences. The City should focus new higher density investment properties close to the central business district and in the IMMEDIATE vicinity of CSU. Redevelopment of existing single-family properties should be encouraged, not restricted, whether that's in the form of a scrape or historic preservation. Only Jul 10, 2012 7:43 AM those houses that have true historic significance should be required to maintain that historic character. Anyway, most buyers aren't too interested in significant architectural alterations which is evidenced by the fact that most homes, whether expanded or not, still look a lot like they did when originally built. 51 destruction or significant alteration of existing buildings and homes.Loss of what sets these Old Town neighborhoods apart from modern neighborhoods Jul 9, 2012 9:45 PM 52 None. Jul 9, 2012 8:44 PM 53 Increase in student rentals as the economy worsens and the rental market gets stronger. Gentrification but not always in a good way, i.e., some remodels have been tasteful and stick to the historic character of the house and neighborhood, while other remodels have been gaudy, too large, too modern and out of character with it's history and surroundings. Jul 9, 2012 8:20 PM 54 Beautiful old houses are being razed and replaced with rather ugly new ones or are having additions built that utterly destroy the historic character of the houses. It changes the entire feel of the neighborhood and tends to indicate a change in the type of neighbor as well. Jul 9, 2012 7:38 PM 55 Replacement residences don't fit neighborhoods. Developers are attempting to Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 19 cram way too much house on a very small lot. Jul 9, 2012 2:02 PM 56 The city seems more willing to allow re-zoning within our neighborhood--the city has been our most powerful assistant in valuing the historic neighborhoods, but I worry that this is eroding in the name of "infill". We already live in neighborhoods that are closely urban, and the few "open" areas we have--large back yards, large trees, single family homes, are very precious to our sense of pleasure here. Jul 9, 2012 1:59 PM 57 Too many out of scale new houses; too many scrape-offs of historic houses that have real character, to be replaced with large houses that would better fit into South Ft. Collins neighborhoods. We need architectural design standards to protect these neighborhoods. Jul 9, 2012 1:23 PM 58 More remodeled homes or homes completely replaced with ever increasing Floor Area Ratios. Jul 9, 2012 10:43 AM 59 not sure that I have seen any other than people renovating homes here and there Jul 9, 2012 10:28 AM 60 the continued evoluntion of the neighborhoods Jul 9, 2012 9:38 AM 61 Aged cottonwood trees are falling and that changes the neighborhood atmosphere quite much. Jul 8, 2012 9:49 PM 62 Transition neighborhood-- We are seeing rentals change to owned which is very desirable. Extremely small houses are being renovated/remodeled which increases property value. Run down properties are less tolerated. Jul 8, 2012 9:32 PM 63 Multi-tenant rentals with residents who are not interested in maintaining character Jul 8, 2012 3:02 PM 64 There have been no key changes, but there have been smaller changes such as larger, more land dense houses going in, but also a general shift away from lawn culture to a more wild, xeriscape or permaculture landscape culture. Jul 8, 2012 2:29 PM 65 Housed are getting larger, landscaping is more sophisticated and attractive, house upkeep is improving Jul 8, 2012 2:04 PM 66 Houses remodeled/enlarged. Improved landscaping. Jul 8, 2012 1:34 PM 67 Rental properties not being kept up, large houses or additions on small lots and shading adjacent houses, dogs not on leashes and owners not picking up feces, inadequate street sweeping, poor maintenance of sidewalks. Jul 7, 2012 11:05 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 20 68 Street improvements tree cutting Jul 7, 2012 10:26 PM 69 NEGATIVE CHANGES: Demolishing historic homes and replacing them with out-of-place new construction that disregards the context of the neighborhood and surrounding houses. Building over-sized additions or new structures that are out of scale with the size of the lots they are on and with the neighboring houses. POSITIVE CHANGES: Historically sensitive renovations and improvements of existing homes. Landscape improvements and upkeep. Maintenance of old trees in public right-of-ways and replanting of new trees where old ones have been removed. Jul 7, 2012 9:42 PM 70 increase in prices of homes remodels / scrapes more young families Jul 7, 2012 8:23 PM 71 Houses being taken care of better and improved. More families moving into areas. Jul 7, 2012 6:00 PM 72 more families with young children in the last 20 years Jul 7, 2012 4:09 PM 73 Scraping off and odd enlargements of older homes. Jul 7, 2012 10:42 AM 74 West side neighborhoods are changing radically, with the "scraping" of older homes and replacing them with large, architecturally dissonant houses that dominate the ones around them. Often these new constructions completely fill the available lot space in order to accommodate the greater square footage. Gentrification is also a big issue. Jul 7, 2012 10:42 AM 75 overbuilding on lots; especially when super-large houses are next to moderately sized houses Jul 6, 2012 5:05 PM 76 Oversized homes which are dissonant with the neighborhood character. Jul 6, 2012 3:16 PM 77 Worn down homes almost look unsafe. Too many rentals where renters don't really care about the landscaping and maintenance. Some remodels and new homes are coming along . 95% look great 5% Look terrible Jul 6, 2012 2:32 PM 78 There is a lot of pressure from the expansion of the CSU population as well as the increasing size of the city populatin in general to convert existing owneroccupied homes to rentals. There is also pressure to expand rental homes into duplexes, quadplexes, or larger rental properties. Jul 6, 2012 11:54 AM 79 People are investing in and updating houses (good) Some structures and proposed structures don't fit in with the character of the neighborhood. 80 Subdividing lots into smaller lots is hurting the neighborhood. Expansions past the size the lots and the character of the houses of the neighborhood support well. Jul 6, 2012 11:38 AM 81 People currently living here are remodeling, upgrading and/or expanding their homes to fit their lifestyle. Builders purchasing homes to remodel, expand or scrape and start over. Neighborhoods uniting to protect the neighbohoods we love. Increased involvement with city government regarding rules that may impact our neighborhoods Jul 6, 2012 11:25 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 21 82 Gentrification of neighborhoods due to smaller homes being torn down and replaced with large homes worth $400,000 and up. On the other hand, people are fixing some of the neglected home up and they look nice. More families in neighborhood. Jul 6, 2012 11:22 AM 83 scrape jobs Jul 6, 2012 11:17 AM 84 The obvious, and most prevalent, one is the removal/modification of existing houses and replacing them with houses that are over-sized for the neighborhood. Jul 6, 2012 11:16 AM 85 Rentals are turning into single-family homes. Jul 6, 2012 10:19 AM 86 Scape offs and infill projects that do not match the streetscape or neighbor elements Jul 6, 2012 10:10 AM 87 Homes north of Laporte are being remodeled and/or new construction built which is raising values for all homes and presenting options for families that need a little larger home to accomodate their family. This area is "cleaning" up as well as the east side of College which isn't so much college rentals anymore Jul 6, 2012 10:04 AM 88 many, large new homes being built Jul 6, 2012 9:34 AM 89 Some scrape offs. Jul 5, 2012 10:04 PM 90 a lot of speculation by investors instead of homeowners Jul 5, 2012 3:49 PM 91 Residential investment and renovation; homes expanding for modern needs while respecting historical nature and architectural integrity of the neighborhood. Jul 5, 2012 2:48 PM 92 (1) more families moving in, not just single college students. (2) So far, the rebuilds and remodels have been very positive. Jul 5, 2012 9:01 AM 93 People take pride in their houses, there is a lot of construction and home improvement Jul 4, 2012 10:15 PM 94 Home improvements, investment, some demographic and social changes. Jul 4, 2012 8:21 PM 95 Homeowners are re-building/remodeling homes that are in severe need of updating. The size limitations that were imposed last year are a detractor for families. One of the positives with Old Town is the diversity in the population and these restrictions limit family options. Jul 4, 2012 7:14 PM 96 Both thoughtful restoration along as well as huge homes and add-ons that are out-of sync with the area or home they are attached to, creating cavernous environments for the older homes next door. Jul 4, 2012 3:16 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 22 97 A handful of excellent recently rebuilt houses, decent street maintenance, addition of bike-friendly lanes. Jul 4, 2012 11:08 AM 98 Change in the duplex rules for renting out basement units make finding housing for students even more difficult. I believe this will force the building of huge apartment Blocks for students that are Not attractive. It also drives students out of neighborhoods and forces segregation. This is a detriment to established families and students because they don't have the learning experience of being a community member and how to be a respectful neighbor. Jul 4, 2012 10:42 AM 99 People removing old houses to replace with larger ones that are out of character Jul 4, 2012 10:23 AM 100 House remodels Jul 4, 2012 9:50 AM 101 increased number of rentals Jul 4, 2012 9:28 AM 102 There have been some new, less attractive houses replacing older ones. The new ones don't fit in well. I see this particularly along Mountain Avenue. Also, there are more apartment buildings. Laurel Street has become apartment row. Jul 4, 2012 9:15 AM 103 Small non-historic houses are being demolished and replaced with new structures that generally maintain the character of the neighborhood. Jul 4, 2012 8:15 AM 104 Upgrades to older homes with modern materials. Jul 4, 2012 7:29 AM 105 Too many non-resident landowners - too many transient renters - we felt like "neighbor roulette" every season when the renters changed - lack of stability - landlords not keeping up properties - Jul 3, 2012 9:24 PM 106 Rising real estate prices Jul 3, 2012 6:03 PM 107 Big houses next to tiny houses, more affluent people moving into the neighborhood, additions going on homes, people taking more care of their property Jul 3, 2012 4:21 PM 108 Renovation and expansion of old homes. Jul 3, 2012 3:54 PM 109 Changes have been positive. People have done a great job remodeling and expanding homes. Houses that have fallen into disrepair are being revitalized. Jul 3, 2012 3:22 PM 110 The neighborhood is thriving and properties are being improved by wellconceived remodels and the replacement of aging and deteriorating properties. Jul 3, 2012 2:28 PM 111 redevelopment Jul 3, 2012 2:20 PM 112 Smaller homes are being razed and replaced with excessively enormous singlefamily complexes that dominate the entire plot and dwarf the surrounding homes. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 23 Some more attention paid to walkability/bikeability. Jul 3, 2012 1:01 PM 113 positive-re-establishment of neighbor homes from rental to residents , diverse families , younger families with children , bikes and walkers -- negative – autos driving much too fast on residental streets - challenging walkers,bikers,children , lack of respect via of aggressive too fast,careless drivers !!!(lack of police patrols to slow down vehicle traffic Jul 3, 2012 12:55 PM 114 Inapproprite houses being built or remodeled in the middle of historic blocks. Jul 3, 2012 12:33 PM 115 DDA and CSU enhancements. Mason Corridor. Scrapeoffs and popups. Jul 3, 2012 11:58 AM 116 Older houses begin knocked down and replaced with modern structures that will change the character of the neighborhood. Houses that are too big for the traditional sized lots. Jul 3, 2012 10:48 AM 117 Many of the old, historic buildings are being torn down and new, huge structures are being put in their place! :( Jul 3, 2012 10:08 AM 118 the trains come through more frequently and are longer in length/improvement of N College, Howes, Mason, alleys in old town/discovery center and linclon center/better bike lanes/development of N. College and CSU campus Jul 3, 2012 9:02 AM 119 Old, small houses are being replaced or added on to, resulting in larger houses that fill more of the lot space. Some of the additions are very nice. Some are hideous. Jul 3, 2012 8:51 AM 120 General upgrade of properties. Jul 3, 2012 8:36 AM 121 Too large remodels that take up too much of what could be a yard and do not fit with current houses! Jul 3, 2012 8:28 AM 122 Fairly new to the area...not that much perspective on that Jul 3, 2012 8:21 AM 123 more multi-story commercial construction, scrape offs being replaced with huge houses Jul 3, 2012 8:19 AM 124 With the revitalization of Downtown and the tightening of the rental market, these areas are becoming less and less affordable to households of young with only one income or who don't make well above the median income. Jul 3, 2012 8:14 AM 125 More multi ƒamily dwellings. This will not add to Old Town, it will be detrimental. More unique small businesses will make it an extension of what made old town what it is today. Please no more housing. Jul 3, 2012 12:43 AM 126 Too many huge homes being built Jul 2, 2012 10:46 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 24 127 Some new construction that does not fit into the neighborhood (too large, too new, with 3-car garages) Jul 2, 2012 10:32 PM 128 Lots of new housing for CSU students; homes being torn down & replaced with multiunit buildings; some decline in care of streets & sidewalks; huge increase in traffic; many activities sponsored by city that promote drinking Jul 2, 2012 9:58 PM 129 Values increasing, poorly maintained homes being updated or replaced. Jul 2, 2012 9:52 PM 130 There have been several houses in close proximity to ours that have been scraped off the lot, the lots divided, and new construction put in their place. I am not as concerned with this as some of these houses were condemned (or close to it). What is most concerning to me is the houses that get scraped or totally redone that could have been salvaged/restored but there seems to be no acknowledgement as to the original character of the house and how it was incorporated/blended into the block. I am also concered about the increasing number of huge homes (>3000 sq ft) adjacent to small homes (<1000 sq ft) where it seems that no consideration has been give to as home the new large home may impact the smaller, original home. Jul 2, 2012 9:43 PM 131 I have lived here in Fort Collins for only 2 1/2 years, so I haven't really noticed change yet. Jul 2, 2012 9:39 PM 132 busy street traffic, changing character to more infill in already dense downtown neighborhoods, noise, improved architecture from non-historic aged houses to modern bungalows Jul 2, 2012 9:32 PM 133 Older homes being purchased and completely renovated, sometime to a degree that challenges the character of other existing homes nearby. Increased vehicle and bicycle traffic on neighborhood streets. Jul 2, 2012 9:07 PM 134 People are adding on to existing homes. Older trees are being cut down. Houses are going into foreclosure and bringing down property values. Jul 2, 2012 9:06 PM 135 1. Some movement from rentals to owner-occupied, arriving at a better mix (I think a majority of owner-occupied is needed to maintain the quality of the neighborhood). 2. A movement from turf to dirt or rock front lawns. Jul 2, 2012 9:06 PM 136 Renewal, a welcome growth of families that are invigorating our neighborhood school. Jul 2, 2012 8:48 PM 137 I see historic character sometimes compromised in additions to existing structures or new construction on former lots. Some rental properties are not being as well-maintained. Jul 2, 2012 8:20 PM 138 More owner occupied homes. Jul 2, 2012 8:17 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 25 139 The houses that are being knocked down in my neighborhood and new houses being built on my street are huge (760 sqft home next to a 6,000sqft home). These houses do not fit in based on their size and also they are very modern looking in an old town area. they are tearing down historical homes and building multiple homes where one house used to be. The houses are very close together and the neighbors that are having these houses built next door to them are loosing natural light and now they look out their windows to a house 4 feet away. There is just to much building happening in an old town area. Jul 2, 2012 8:13 PM 140 resident for 3 yrs: That younger couples are moving into what were rentals. They are starter homes. Jul 2, 2012 8:07 PM 141 growth of apartment buildings and rentals loss of trees to expand rental market Jul 2, 2012 7:43 PM 142 Houses are being built on lots that are overshadowing the houses next to them. These new houses not in accordance to the style design of the current architecture of the neighborhoods. The new houses are appearing similar in design and style will little differentiation. Additionally, the new houses appear to have very little yard/buffer between the new house and the older houses. 143 for the worse... development of alley or carriage houses - too many poor architectural changes in existing houses. too big of footprint of new 'scrapes'. for the better... control of parties, response when police called to break up parties Jul 2, 2012 7:01 PM 144 lots of expansions and tear-downs, especially north of Laporte on the Westsidenew construction that is not in keeping with the scale of neighboring homes and/or historic character of area, as smaller, unimproved homes come on the market, many seem to be purchased by investors who tear them down or make massive additions - I think over time there will be fewer affordable housing options and less variety in size of homes Jul 2, 2012 6:49 PM 145 Proposed CSU football stadium is a major threat for disrupting, devaluing, and diluting the character, community, and quality of our community. Jul 2, 2012 6:01 PM 146 Older, more tired houses are being cleaned up and greened up in a variety of ways. Jul 2, 2012 5:58 PM 147 Ongoing renovation of Dunn, trolley working, keeping bike lanes and roads clean, streetlights along Mountain Jul 2, 2012 5:50 PM 148 Construction of homes on small lots that are incompatible with the surrounding residences and inadequate provision for vehichle parking. Jul 2, 2012 4:40 PM 149 new construction out of the neighborhood character Jul 2, 2012 4:37 PM 150 Increasing imposition on our lifestyle and personal choices imposed by the environmentalists on the city council Jul 2, 2012 4:33 PM 151 Lots of interest in gardening for food, keeping chickens and increased biking. More interest in smaller homes. Jul 2, 2012 4:22 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 26 Q4. Please list or describe any positive aspects of the neighborhood changes. 1 A few younger families have moved into the neighborhood. Jul 17, 2012 12:56 PM 2 Pride, Gardening, social interaction Jul 16, 2012 7:55 PM 3 - Maintained property value during economic downturn - More bike lanes - Urban agriculture - chickens, shared gardens, support of farm shares (CSA) - Block parties supported by Neighborhood Resources - Neighborhood potlucks Jul 16, 2012 9:44 AM 4 The City of Fort Collins already has enough regulation in place for these areas. The positive is that we keep winning the fight to be governed further. Jul 15, 2012 4:30 PM 5 Most new houses have designs that blend into the neighborhood Jul 14, 2012 5:30 PM 6 More families, higher percentages of well kept homes, less run down properties, urban renewal Jul 13, 2012 5:29 PM 7 n/a Jul 13, 2012 5:25 PM 8 A few really junky, decrepit, architecturally insignificant houses have been torn down. Jul 13, 2012 5:20 PM 9 fewer renters, more owners; owners are keeping up the appearance of homes and yards better than when they were rentals Jul 13, 2012 4:02 PM 10 student population has increased local business activity. Bringing students closer to campus means fewer vehicle trips and less impact to neighborhoods just blocks from campus. Jul 13, 2012 3:56 PM 11 Neighborhoods looks nicer but I am not convinced people are nicer to one another. Jul 13, 2012 12:31 PM 12 Investments to renovate and expand are a positive. This leads to more owner occupied houses that are well maintained. Landscaping will also be better maintained. Trees and shrubs on rental property are over grown and are a distraction to the neighborhood. Large dead limbs from neighboring properties have taken down by electrical and communication lines twice in the last year. Jul 13, 2012 12:06 PM 13 see #1 Jul 12, 2012 8:57 PM 14 "dress up" the neighborhoods with updated architecture and landscaping, often using "green" building materials and practices Jul 12, 2012 6:00 PM 15 Old structurally unsound homes which have been remodeled over the years in a piece meal fashion have started to be upgraded. Done correctly, there have benefited the nieghborhood streetscapes to a large degree. Property values have been maintained this way and a preservation of our valuable historic structures ultimately occur. Just because something is dated, does not mean it is architecturally significant. It may not have been in the first place, so having the Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 27 freedom through already well-defined planning principles is actually a positive influence. Jul 12, 2012 2:52 PM 16 it seems like many are constantly making improvements Jul 12, 2012 11:28 AM 17 Close knit neighbors that do care about there surroundings. Although, this is dwindling. The senior population is leaving this area and those properties are becoming rentals. Jul 12, 2012 7:15 AM 18 Better bike lanes and lighting Jul 11, 2012 6:52 PM 19 Renovations of out-dated or run down properties. Jul 11, 2012 5:50 PM 20 Some of the 'student housing' that helps get the kids into newer facilities so that others can upgrade the older homes. Most of those rentals are so shabby. Jul 11, 2012 4:16 PM 21 There are examples of inspired renovations, remodels, and even new construction that fit into these neighborhoods and add to the historical quality of this part of Fort Collins. Diversity of what constitutes a family or neighbor continues to be present, varying in ages, economic levels, and professions. Jul 11, 2012 2:15 PM 22 some houses are remodeled in style appropriate ways that improve value Jul 11, 2012 1:32 PM 23 Art in public places makes things like power stations interesting to look at. Gives a nice feel to see beautiful artwork in the neighborhoods. Jul 11, 2012 1:26 PM 24 Trees! Care of the trees, landscaping, clean alleys Jul 11, 2012 1:09 PM 25 Keeps neighborhoods alive and makes downtown a more desirable area. Jul 11, 2012 11:32 AM 26 Old buildings aren't falling into disrepair and landscaping is meticulous. Jul 11, 2012 11:24 AM 27 All of those listed above, plus many older houses that are not historically significant, or are very deteriorated, are being replaced with new infill construction. Additions are being added to some smaller homes to make them more usable for younger families. Jul 11, 2012 11:18 AM 28 all the previous are positive Jul 11, 2012 10:05 AM 29 Investment in Library and library park will enhance East side center point. Jul 11, 2012 8:11 AM 30 less obvious homeless population in parks increased neighbor interaction Jul 11, 2012 7:50 AM 31 Bigger houses, high resale value, more families Jul 10, 2012 10:16 PM 32 Library park expansion, pianos downtown, investments in downtown architecture, streets and sidewalks, old homes are being fixed up, landscaping is being improved, bike library for visitors, not new but i think the horse carriage rides add a nice feel to downtown neighborhoods, etc. Jul 10, 2012 9:52 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 28 33 Many old and questionable rental properties have been purchased, remodeled and sold as single family units. As a westside resident this is a major, major improvement! Lots of people making sugnificant and impressive upgrades on their homes making them more true to the period they were built. Very exciting to see these changes. Jul 10, 2012 6:56 PM 34 Tasteful remodels or additions add to the neighborhood. Some of the original houses need TLC, and when done in keeping with the neighborhood, contribute both asthetically and to home values. Landscaping and trees should be a mandatory % of scrapes to be approved by the city. Jul 10, 2012 6:29 PM 35 none Jul 10, 2012 6:25 PM 36 remodels renovations good for my homes property value Jul 10, 2012 5:16 PM 37 Updated landscaping, updaying homes while keeping within the age-character of the neighborhood.... Jul 10, 2012 3:58 PM 38 - neighborhoods are improving water conservation with new xeriscaping and other landscape treatments - some neighbors are working hard to make their additions and remodels compatible with the historic character and sensitive to their neighbors (Ex: addition for 720 W Oak was modest and underground) Jul 10, 2012 3:20 PM 39 Long time home owners and those buying here who know the value of the neighborhood work to maintain its beauty., Jul 10, 2012 11:47 AM 40 Little shacks that were falling down or in poor shape and were too small for a family are now being remade and revitalized so that families can now live in old town but in Modern houses, with windows that are operable and modern efficient heating systems! Jul 10, 2012 10:59 AM 41 Some homes have been carefully renovated in keeping with their historic character and original size. Jul 10, 2012 10:34 AM 42 * Addition of bicycle lanes and signal switches. * Mason St corridor allowing noncar access southward. * Flood control modifications by the city. Jul 10, 2012 10:07 AM 43 more bikers & walkers; more families; more home ownership pride --- I've seen long time rentals converted into homes. Jul 10, 2012 8:12 AM 44 Families are moving back in. Old homes are being recycled. Jul 10, 2012 7:44 AM 45 We struggle with this question but will concede that it brings investment to Old Town Jul 9, 2012 9:47 PM 46 None. Jul 9, 2012 8:45 PM 47 Everything I listed as a negative could alternatively be a positive. For instance, my next-door neighbors did a beautiful job on their yard and home and greatly improved our community. Jul 9, 2012 8:23 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 29 48 The addition of bike lanes on Laporte is appreciated. Jul 9, 2012 7:43 PM 49 Old houses are continuing to be renovated, not many "rat trap" houses left (I've been here 20 years). Jul 9, 2012 2:04 PM 50 I have loved the extended curbs which make more attractive crossroads at Laurel and east west streets, for instance. The plantings there have really enhanced things. Also, some of the adversities that have been thrown at us (landlords wanting to divide their lot in two) have brought us together in a nice way. Jul 9, 2012 2:00 PM 51 Diversity of neighbors. Some good, well designed additions that are tucked in behind the historic houses, and don't overwhelm them. Huge increase in property values, because everyone likes the historic character. Jul 9, 2012 1:25 PM 52 nice to have houses kept up more Jul 9, 2012 10:29 AM 53 more livable homes for families more multi family development mix of new architechture mix of new neighbors Jul 9, 2012 9:39 AM 54 Young families with little kids are coming back. Jul 8, 2012 9:50 PM 55 Property values are going up as houses are being remodeled-updated. There is less graffiti and gang presence. There are a lot of creative, diverse people moving into the neighborhood. Jul 8, 2012 9:35 PM 56 Ability for diverse groups to live in the area Jul 8, 2012 3:03 PM 57 I think the water use must be lower with the new shift away from lawns. Jul 8, 2012 2:32 PM 58 Families are moving in or staying, neighborhoods are looking good Jul 8, 2012 2:05 PM 59 Improved landscaping. More walkable sidewalks/street crossings. Bike lane on Whedbee. Jul 8, 2012 1:34 PM 60 listed on question 3 Jul 8, 2012 8:40 AM 61 Good care of trees by forestry department, good maintenance of streets and curbs, nice improvements to City Park. Jul 7, 2012 11:06 PM 62 Preservation of architectural character. Preservation of historic neighborhood community values. Jul 7, 2012 9:45 PM 63 I think the general appearance of the neigborhood is better (owners tend to take care of thier homes). Neighborhood feels safe. Jul 7, 2012 8:25 PM 64 Same as last question Jul 7, 2012 6:00 PM 65 many homes have been renovated and preserved. Jul 7, 2012 4:10 PM 66 Refreshed homes, alley improvements, striping for bicycles. Jul 7, 2012 10:43 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 30 67 Some of the homes being torn down are in a genuine state of disrepair, and some of the houses being built do look nice and "fit" the area. I would not say that this is the case in the majority of circumstances, though. Jul 7, 2012 10:43 AM 68 owner-residents as opposed to rentals Jul 6, 2012 5:06 PM 69 Upgrades and remodels look so much better. Newer landscaping is fabulous. I like the variety of styles and sizes. Some streets that I would not have gone down before seem cleaner and safer Jul 6, 2012 2:48 PM 70 In areas farther from campus, the increased housing pressure has upped the value of the homes and decreased their desirability as rental properties. That's just a guess though and there are certainly exceptions to that. Jul 6, 2012 11:56 AM 71 As new families come in, some rehabilitate and expand their houses sensitively and in such a way that guarantees these houses and this historic neighborhood will remain liveable and desirable. Jul 6, 2012 11:39 AM 72 Investment in updating houses to meet current requirements while maintaining arcitectural integrity Jul 6, 2012 11:39 AM 73 Neighborhoods becoming active in city government regarding rules impacting our neighborhoods. Neighbors paying attention and attending public meetings regarding changes coming to their neighborhood in terms of dev review proposals or city plans. People taking pride in their homes. Jul 6, 2012 11:26 AM 74 Mentioned in 3. Homes getting fixed up by new owners in a tasteful way. More families. Jul 6, 2012 11:23 AM 75 increasing real estate value in some transitional neighborhoods Jul 6, 2012 11:18 AM 76 None. Jul 6, 2012 11:16 AM 77 Noise, appearance of homes, safety. Jul 6, 2012 10:20 AM 78 bringing young families back into the area Jul 6, 2012 10:11 AM 79 Increase in property values, more availability of homes to more demographics, elimination of properties that were in very poor condition Jul 6, 2012 10:05 AM 80 more varity of housing appealing to different people Jul 6, 2012 9:35 AM 81 many run down houses are being revitalized the housing market is healthy increased density in the town center instead of sprawl Jul 5, 2012 3:52 PM 82 Increased property values, long-term investment (families who plan to stay in the neighborhood), improved infrastructure (along Elizabeth Street). Jul 5, 2012 2:49 PM 83 (1) more families (vs rentals to younger people) enhances vitality and quality of Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 31 the neighborhoods. (2) so far the remodels and rebuilds have improved lots. The architectural character of the neighborhoods is important, but not all houses there are gems. Some tear downs have been (and will be) big improvements. Some of the rebuilds have more "Old Town" style than the originals. Jul 5, 2012 9:04 AM 84 keeping up with home improvement, it seems like people keep their house in good shape Jul 4, 2012 10:17 PM 85 Home improvements, investment, improved real estate values, high quality of care for the neighborhood, great aesthetic appeal Jul 4, 2012 8:22 PM 86 Restoration of older homes, similar to the original impression and similar footprint and/or in character with its surroundings. Jul 4, 2012 3:16 PM 87 Thus far, I have only seen positive aspects of these changes. The new houses are tastefully built, street work was necessary and has improved overall neighborhood quality, and the bike lanes make getting around these neighborhoods and Old Town safer. Jul 4, 2012 11:10 AM 88 Housing market seems very healthy and homeowners are enjoying good property values. Water main improvements on Elizabeth are appreciated. Jul 4, 2012 10:43 AM 89 Can be positive if replacing an eyesore Jul 4, 2012 10:24 AM 90 Remodels are revitalizing neighborhoods Jul 4, 2012 9:51 AM 91 diversity of ages and social class Jul 4, 2012 9:29 AM 92 None of this is positive in my view. I grew up in the eastside area when Fort Collins was a small town, and I don't like seeing lovely old houses razed and replaced. Jul 4, 2012 9:16 AM 93 The architecture of the new houses have mostly been turn-of-the-century or Craftsman style. Jul 4, 2012 8:16 AM 94 The city is more aware of the need for street upgrades. Jul 4, 2012 7:32 AM 95 older homes - classic neighborhoods - mature landscapes and trees - social diversity - increasing property values Jul 3, 2012 9:25 PM 96 Makes our investment better Jul 3, 2012 6:03 PM 97 I like how the neighborhood is getting nicer, homes are being taken care of well and more affluent people are moving in. Jul 3, 2012 4:21 PM 98 Family friendly. Renewal rather than sprawl. Jul 3, 2012 3:55 PM 99 Houses are being occupied by families. Historical character has been preserved Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 32 with remodels and additions. Neighborhood feeling is stronger than ever. Home values have increased not decreased like in most neighborhoods. Jul 3, 2012 3:24 PM 100 Run-down homes with overgrown, weed-filled yards are being replace by liveable homes with homeowners and families who care about their properties, their neighborhood and their neighbors. Jul 3, 2012 2:30 PM 101 increased property values, better looking Jul 3, 2012 2:21 PM 102 More people walking/biking/spending time outside. Jul 3, 2012 1:01 PM 103 re-establishing single family homes , up keep of homes-landscape, young families , safety , sense of neighborhood community Jul 3, 2012 12:56 PM 104 precious few Jul 3, 2012 12:34 PM 105 More and more people realize how great it is to live in the older parts of Fort Collins. Public improvements. Jul 3, 2012 11:59 AM 106 A diversity of people. Instead of the Westside Neighborhoods having a majority of one culture/educational level/income level, there seems to be a wide range of diverse people. Jul 3, 2012 10:49 AM 107 I can't think of any positive changes. New water lines are being put in on Elizabeth St. Jul 3, 2012 10:08 AM 108 see previous list Jul 3, 2012 9:02 AM 109 Replacing old decrepit houses. Jul 3, 2012 8:52 AM 110 Better sense of pride in surroundings Jul 3, 2012 8:37 AM 111 Has continued to have nice and responsible neighbors since I moved here in 1976. Jul 3, 2012 8:30 AM 112 The new constuction/rebuilds fit well with the older houses; there's still a lot of diversity on each block Jul 3, 2012 8:22 AM 113 increased tax base. investment is generally good to maintain or increase the value of the area Jul 3, 2012 8:20 AM 114 With the revitalization of these areas, owner-occupied homes are often well cared for. Jul 3, 2012 8:15 AM 115 New businesses welcome. Rentals will spoil the area, as renters do not maintain properties, owners are proud of it, as it should be. Jul 3, 2012 12:44 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 33 116 Remodeling and rebuilding activity that brings run-down homes up to modern standards without obliterating the original neighborhood feel. Jul 2, 2012 10:32 PM 117 Many of the new business buildings are being built with attention to maintaining the feeling /character of the area i.e.brick with nicely done landscaping Jul 2, 2012 10:00 PM 118 Increased values, safety and desirability Jul 2, 2012 9:53 PM 119 There are a number of nice, new, up-market homes in that have increased the market value of the homes around them. Jul 2, 2012 9:44 PM 120 N/A Jul 2, 2012 9:39 PM 121 some improved architectural style from non-historic era buildings Jul 2, 2012 9:32 PM 122 Owners have added attractive landscaping around the corner on Stover. The alley near campus off of Laurel now invites people to stop into the coffee shop and restaurants. Jul 2, 2012 9:11 PM 123 More bike traffic is always good when they and other drivers respect the rules of the road and are courteous. Jul 2, 2012 9:08 PM 124 My location (Laurel and Whedbee) was greatly improved a few years ago by the landscaping and traffic calming additions at the four corners of the intersection, and by the removal of the traffic light that had been there. Jul 2, 2012 9:06 PM 125 More families, decrepit college rentals being turned into family homes. Jul 2, 2012 8:49 PM 126 Improved appearance. Jul 2, 2012 8:18 PM 127 In our area there is really no positive changes occurring. Jul 2, 2012 8:14 PM 128 Our community holds an indoor/ or outdoor monthly neighborhood brunch, at a home. I enjoy that if my dog gets loose , my neghbors will hold her until I get home. It's a strong community. Jul 2, 2012 8:09 PM 129 losing trees and increased rental property are not positives Jul 2, 2012 7:44 PM 130 Updating to older housing. Wider bike lanes and very biker friendly. Jul 2, 2012 7:34 PM 131 people are keeping their properties up, nice landscaping, good repair of houses Jul 2, 2012 7:02 PM 132 increases property values, improves some properties that may have been neglected, many have been done in a way that complements/blends with existing historic architecture Jul 2, 2012 6:50 PM 133 Renewal of demography with young families moving in, balanced with "oldtimers" with lots of stories and an example to follow. Jul 2, 2012 6:02 PM 134 Infill, alley houses Jul 2, 2012 6:00 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 34 135 None that can be identified!! Jul 2, 2012 4:41 PM 136 None. Jul 2, 2012 4:34 PM 137 Neighbors are more likely to be outside and talking about common goals and projects. All participants are taking better care and have more pride in their homes. More owner occupied homes. Jul 2, 2012 4:26 PM Q5. Please list or describe any negative aspects of the neighborhood changes. 1 Because of the rental/residential misch-masch I believe more fences are going up for privacy, stripping the neighborhood of friend-making motivation Jul 17, 2012 12:59 PM 2 Low land values created by restricted remodeling; deteriorating house conditions (older houses not being maintained. Jul 16, 2012 7:56 PM 3 - Noise - The use of power tools to maintain yards/trees inundates our backyard and restricts our ability to enjoy our living space - Woodsmoke - More people are building small fire pits or chimayos. The City banned fireplaces in the 80's and have weed police traveling our alleys and front yards, but the smoke continues. It is time to ban outside fires for the purpose allowing people to breathe -- to enjoy their backyard and keep their windows open at night. We have four neighbors that regularly burn forcing us to close our windows. Jul 16, 2012 9:50 AM 4 Having to fight to keep our property rights with the City of Fort Collins at every turn, including trash!! Jul 15, 2012 4:31 PM 5 Rental properties are sometimes not well kept Jul 14, 2012 5:31 PM 6 None Jul 13, 2012 5:30 PM 7 n/a Jul 13, 2012 5:25 PM 8 Some of the replacement houses don't fit well with existing houses, because of size and design. Jul 13, 2012 5:22 PM 9 Monster houses being built/rebuilt on small lots, second story being added which dwarf and shade surrounding homes Jul 13, 2012 4:03 PM 10 landlords with homes near the university do not have to take care of them because the rental market is so tight and students will rent the houses anyway. Jul 13, 2012 3:59 PM 11 The dominance of the upscale changes have increased the socioeconomic divide. neighborhood spirit is not as accepting and kind. Jul 13, 2012 12:32 PM 12 Maintenance on some rental property has been deferred. Jul 13, 2012 12:10 PM 13 none Jul 13, 2012 8:13 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 35 14 loss of architectural and cultural diversity; loss of historic feel. Jul 12, 2012 8:59 PM 15 the new houses don't fit in with the character of the existing homes, significantly driving up home values and thus property taxes Jul 12, 2012 6:01 PM 16 Negative aspects include pitting neighbors against each other and the NIMBY attitudes that some harbor. Jul 12, 2012 2:53 PM 17 See previous answers Jul 12, 2012 7:15 AM 18 Big houses on small lots Jul 11, 2012 6:52 PM 19 Streets are not properly maintained, particularly Cherry Street which has potholes and drain back-ups. Additionally, Cherry has become an alternative main thoroughfare and thus drivers speed on this road, taking away the peacefulness and safety for children and walkers. I would like to see the City putmore stop signs and a bike lane on Cherry to limit racing traffic and allow bikers/walkers a safe lane to travel. Jul 11, 2012 5:54 PM 20 The Drunken Monkey was a huge mistake as is evidenced by the brawls and vomiting on the sidewalks. Jul 11, 2012 4:17 PM 21 Increased automobile traffic as density increases and family size in these homes increase; decreased culture of community and friendliness over the increase sense of "property rights." Jul 11, 2012 2:18 PM 22 already addressed Jul 11, 2012 1:32 PM 23 The mix of housing is a negative. You have an apartment complex next to a beautiful historic home, next to a worn down rental, next to a new modern house. Jul 11, 2012 1:27 PM 24 Remodels that are a poor fit and stick out Jul 11, 2012 1:09 PM 25 There are always some negatives with any change however I believe the positives far out weigh the negatives. Overall I don't believe there are enough negatives to warrant a heavy handed solution. Jul 11, 2012 11:34 AM 26 Street parking is difficult and concern that house values in the immediate vicinity will go down if it becomes primarily commercial in the area. Jul 11, 2012 11:25 AM 27 Some (actually very few) additions or new infill houses are either too large or out of character with their neighborhoods. These have led to the current overreaction of the City to "reign in" a problem that is not as severe as some would have you believe. Jul 11, 2012 11:20 AM 28 High cost rentals, owners not focusing on upkeep of rental homes. Jul 11, 2012 10:37 AM 29 rental folks still not managing weeds, trash and home upkeep. noise still an issue increase in homeless men and drinking in our alley and walking around the area during the morning hours no street sweeping-some areas of debris are more notable Jul 11, 2012 10:06 AM 30 Fewer owner occupied, less investment in neighborhood and homes. Jul 11, 2012 8:13 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 36 31 more frequent damage to property of vehicles more 'entitiled' individuals moving into neighborhood (feeling 'entitled' to having specific benefits, behaviours, etc. due to paying higher property values to move in) increased traffic due to revitalized old town area Jul 11, 2012 7:53 AM 32 - Rental properties, including multi-family units are not being well maintained. - Too many multi-family units are being allowed in single family neighborhoods. - Abandoned buildings are sitting empty too long. - Loud disturbances coming from rentals and multi family units. Jul 10, 2012 9:54 PM 33 Too many college kids biking late at night, some issues with crime, and people who drive way to fast down mountain. As a mother of three little ones this absolutely drives me crazy and it seems only to be getting worse. Jul 10, 2012 6:58 PM 34 I already went off on this in a previous question! Some of the new houses have no context to anything around it- the scale, building materials, design, etc. are out of place in this older part of town. I hear comments whenever I have out of town visitors, "how can this be zoned here?" Eventually makes the neighborhood weird and unattractive, seems confused. Jul 10, 2012 6:32 PM 35 removal of old trees / expansion of homes Jul 10, 2012 6:26 PM 36 Monster houses that take up the whole lot and homes that are expanded so much that they shade smaller homes next to them. Very ugly! Jul 10, 2012 5:17 PM 37 Trashed rentals, unkept yards, too large of homes on small lots. Jul 10, 2012 3:59 PM 38 - loss of historic homes and historic character of neighborhoods - loss of smaller, affordable rental housing - less diversity of residents (e.g. young professionals are paying high prices pushing seniors, low income, Hispanics and renters out of the area) - the current high property values for historic homes are at risk as the neighborhood gets rebuilt with modern style homes - folks are losing access to sunlight in their homes and yards and facing monolithic walls with few windows closely adjacent to back yards causing a loss of privacy and affecting gardens - the capability of scraping off a small house and building a big one results in small houses selling for much more than they are worth which then creates the need to build a bigger more expensive house on the property. Were there requirements to maintain historic homes or smaller houses, the market values wouldn't go up so fast - Jul 10, 2012 3:25 PM 39 see above. Jul 10, 2012 12:52 PM 40 Homes that are too large for the lots. Jul 10, 2012 11:47 AM 41 Most of the new houses are beautiful thoughtful and well done. The three ugly remodels on Mountain (cross street of Jackson maybe???)that snuck through about 10 years ago are an exception. There needs to be some architectural oversite but geared towards more than just preservation. Neighborhoods should be constantly evolving and changing. It is 2012 we should be able to avail ourselves of all the technology and architectural innovations available rather than being forced to live as if it were still 1912. Encouraging solar and other new green technologies should be strongly encouraged. We could become the Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 37 greenest old town neighborhood in the country! Jul 10, 2012 11:03 AM 42 The too-large houses that were built as a result of scrape-offs are shading their neighbors yards, and neighbors feel like the new houses windows look into their backyards. Modern styles take away from historic character of neighborhood. Jul 10, 2012 10:35 AM 43 * House remodels/replacements that are too large for the lot and the out of scale with the neighborhood. * Winter air quality is poor due to smoke (City Park area). Jul 10, 2012 10:07 AM 44 None -- so far as that trend is concerned. Jul 10, 2012 8:13 AM 45 The only real negative is when investors convert homes to rentals. The Old Town neighborhoods don't need homeowner's associations; they need homeowners. That's the long and short of it and that's what will keep the neighborhoods forever attractive. Jul 10, 2012 7:46 AM 46 Loss of what makes Old Town special. There are plenty of opportunities to live in large or modern houses that don't have the same history. The historic flavor of Old Town should be preserved. Jul 9, 2012 9:49 PM 47 Stop allowing old homes to be torn down in Old Town. The more these homes disappear so will the value of our homes as well. If there is no more character and charm then, people will seek better cities to live in where the historic homes are protected. Jul 9, 2012 8:48 PM 48 See above. Jul 9, 2012 8:23 PM 49 Some of the recent growth of old houses (there are 2 very notable ones I pass on my morning walks that particularly disturb me) have turned back yards into buildings and completely blocked neighbors sense of space and access to sunlight. It discourages me that such things were allowed to take place in Old Town. It makes sense when crazy stuff like that happens south of town where bigger is always better, but Old Town is cozy and homey and massive backyard additions really change the feel of some areas. Jul 9, 2012 7:46 PM 50 People spend a lot of money for a small house, then try to expand it to some monster. Some expansions look very good, some not so nice. How do you legislate art? Jul 9, 2012 2:06 PM 51 Overcrowding; over-parking, noise; interference with easy walking due to large numbers of cars parked in driveways, etc. Jul 9, 2012 2:01 PM 52 Far too many new houses that do not fit into their surroundings - same with several far-too-large additions. People love the charachter, but then want to change it...in another decade, we won't have any "special" character to speak of, and the property values will go down. Jul 9, 2012 1:28 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 38 53 I am somewhat concerned about the increased FAR on these old lots. Jul 9, 2012 10:44 AM 54 none Jul 9, 2012 10:29 AM 55 none that concern me or that i feel the city can do anything about Jul 9, 2012 9:40 AM 56 Seeing some homeless transians in the community park make me feel uncomfortable. Jul 8, 2012 9:52 PM 57 This is historically a Latino neighborhood-- As the neighborhood transitions we are losing some of this rich heritage. Jul 8, 2012 9:36 PM 58 There is a general absence of consciousness around noise. Bass cars, motorized equipment, dogs, and yes especially the train. Jul 8, 2012 2:36 PM 59 Houses are increasing in value (good), but this prices a lot of people out of the market. A few houses are way too big. Jul 8, 2012 2:06 PM 60 Behemoth houses that don't fit character of neighborhood. More rentals to college students. Jul 8, 2012 1:35 PM 61 Sidewalks dangerous in places and can cause injuries. Lose dogs damage landscaping. Storm drains clog with debris and can cause flooding. Jul 7, 2012 11:09 PM 62 see previous Jul 7, 2012 9:45 PM 63 becoming too expensive for many first time buyers/ low income families Jul 7, 2012 8:26 PM 64 Too many restrictions being put on what people can do, makes it impossible to change with the way people live. Jul 7, 2012 6:01 PM 65 as always there are some people who don't care for their homes, but they are not the majority Jul 7, 2012 4:10 PM 66 *Low-income families are being pushed out, and not enough mixed-income options remain *Many new constructions are far too large and dominate the neighboring homes *surrounding properties are becoming increasingly unaffordable *the neighborhoods are losing their charm, for lack of a better term; the same charm that makes people want to live there in the first place is being destroyed Jul 7, 2012 10:55 AM 67 Scraping off &/or enlarging homes, flipping homes, and increased rentals. Jul 7, 2012 10:44 AM 68 scraping and building too-large houses Jul 6, 2012 5:06 PM 69 Possibility of gentrifiction and property taxes escallating. Large homes blocking out the sun of their neighbors. Big house dwarfing bungalows...looks wrong Jul 6, 2012 3:18 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 39 70 Not cleaning up fast enough City needs to follow up on homes and lawns in disrepair (424 w oak) Jul 6, 2012 3:00 PM 71 In my opinion, the threat to the character of these neighborhoods is not simply a matter of the construction techniques or architecture itself. To be sure, there are a few homes that have been built that are probably too big/tall/onerous, but they are by far the exception to the rule of homeowners making valuable improvements to their properties. The primary threat is the combination of high market pressure for more rentals due to the expanding CSU population as well as the expanding population of the city, combined with the City's lax enforcement of zoning ordinances. Quadplex rentals, for example, are not compatible with the characteristic of a residential neighborhood. Yet there are numerous examples of them throughout both the east and west sides. These are large buildings, usually of poor construction and less than stellar architecture. Once built, it is highly unlikely they will ever be converted to an owner occupied unit for these reasons. As this continues to occur, neighborhoods are slowly converted to rental-hoods. Rental-hoods do not attract families with children and are in general less desirable, decreasing property values and, more pertinent to this study, decreasing how appealing the neighborhood is in general. Generally speaking it all boils down to a simple question, which neighborhood would someone rather take an evening stroll through? The one that's 90% owner occupied single family homes, or the one that's 30% owner occupied with several multi-unit homes/buildings mixed in? The question for the city is how to encourage the former while still allowing affordable rentals within the city. Jul 6, 2012 12:15 PM 72 Subdivision of lots for infill with no plan and against code that was hard won in the first place. Scraping historic houses instead of rehabilitating responsibly. Too many attempts to introduce more high density types of housing just because we are near CSU. We have more than our share. Jul 6, 2012 11:41 AM 73 Scale and type of some new and proposed structures do not fit Jul 6, 2012 11:39 AM 74 I am concerned that a short section of the north side of Sycamore St and Whitcomb by Lee Martinez Park has been left out of the East/West Plan. I am concerned that this island might become a target for developers that may want to do something out of character of the West Side Neighborhood. I want to understand the reason for this island that I have lived in for over 30 years. Jul 6, 2012 11:26 AM 75 Large homes destroying history of "old town." We will lose this history forever if we don't set some standards to keep them. Notices more spillover of homeless people, drunk people walking down alleys and in neighborhoods, slum lords not keeping property up, building multiple tenant homes where a single family home stood. Jul 6, 2012 11:25 AM 76 "Generic" blocks of a run of cliche "mountain ugly" houses as if we were in a subdivision. Jul 6, 2012 11:18 AM 77 Lack of affordability with increasing house size (in addition to the Old Town premium that already exists). Jul 6, 2012 11:16 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 40 78 More traffic. Jul 6, 2012 10:20 AM 79 more loud student rentals and poor upkeep from out of town property owners/managers Jul 6, 2012 10:13 AM 80 Larger homes in some cases taking away sunspace from the smaller bungalows, increase in value limits the amount of people that can afford to live in Old Town Jul 6, 2012 10:06 AM 81 not enough mother-in-law set ups being built & not enough affordable housing Jul 6, 2012 9:36 AM 82 Housing becoming more expensive. Jul 5, 2012 10:05 PM 83 shading of neigbors when people build too tall decreased green space when build out instead of up neighbors get angry - don't like change Jul 5, 2012 3:53 PM 84 Increased traffic. Jul 5, 2012 2:49 PM 85 it is expensive to purchase housing around old town Jul 4, 2012 10:19 PM 86 None - I think the area has really blossomed Jul 4, 2012 8:22 PM 87 Home size restriction. I am in favor of new construction having the "old town" architecture but not in favor of the strict size limitation. Jul 4, 2012 7:16 PM 88 Older homes persisting in deteriorating or unsafe condition, inviting the complete replacement of the character homes with colossal structures. There are also too many such unsound homes marketed as "restored" when the problems have been only covered cosmetically. Jul 4, 2012 3:32 PM 89 N/A Jul 4, 2012 11:10 AM 90 None Jul 4, 2012 10:44 AM 91 Larger homes taking up more of the lot. Some new homes do not physcially match the character of the neighborhood Jul 4, 2012 10:24 AM . 92 Some houses are too big compared to neighbors houses Jul 4, 2012 9:52 AM 93 lack of pride in and upkeep of rental units Jul 4, 2012 9:30 AM 94 Too many apartment houses destroy the character of the area. Jul 4, 2012 9:17 AM 95 Although an improvement over the houses that were demolished, some of the houses are too big for the lot, too close to adjacent houses, and their architecture is too modern. Jul 4, 2012 8:19 AM 96 Will more regulations cause home buyers to go to different locations. Jul 4, 2012 7:35 AM 97 RENTERS - who changes with every season - properties that are not cared for Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 41 because renters are students - sorry to say it, but in our neighborhood, student were crappy neighbors. Why care when you are only there a couple of months and the neighbors are duds who want to sleep without parties and complain so much about it!? Jul 3, 2012 9:28 PM 98 Becomes a group of rich people....less diversity, different attitudes. Jul 3, 2012 6:04 PM 99 There is probably a decrease in cultural and racial diversity, tension between those that don't like the changes and those that do, these neighborhoods are less affordable. Jul 3, 2012 4:22 PM 100 Loss of historic character with the demolitions Jul 3, 2012 3:55 PM 101 None Jul 3, 2012 3:24 PM 102 I haven't seen any negative aspects of the neighborhood changes. Jul 3, 2012 2:31 PM 103 reduces diversity with increased property values Jul 3, 2012 2:21 PM 104 Giant homes look ridiculous and are wasteful and inappropriate for this area. Jul 3, 2012 1:02 PM 105 aggressive - too fast auto drivers - not respecting 4 way stops signs , walkingbiking- children in crosswalk - driving much too fast for residential neighborhood streets , lack of police patrol to prevent or reduce traffic concerns Jul 3, 2012 12:57 PM 106 Houses towering over the older homes. Jul 3, 2012 12:34 PM 107 Hot student rental market has changed the scale of what is proposed, and the size of the entities proposing. Jul 3, 2012 12:01 PM 108 Houses being built that are too big for the lots. They certainly "stick out" and do not fit the character of the existing houses/street patterns. Jul 3, 2012 10:51 AM 109 There is a constant push to change the character of the neighborhood by building tall, 2-3 story houses, put up apartment complexes, turn the neighborhood into suburbia, complete with dumpy student rentals where the landlords are exempt from taking care of the property. In my neighborhood we view the front yards of houses as shared green-space, and even backyards are viewed that way too. There is certainly movement to close off the openness of the neighborhood with 6-foot wooden fences, making the neighborhood like Fort Knox. Enough! Jul 3, 2012 10:28 AM 110 there are too many landlords who do not keep up their properties. This has a negative impact on the neighborhood home values, detracts aesthetically, and attracts renters who do not care for the property. Also the train traffic is beyond being balanced and sensible. Case in point, on 7/2/12 traffic on Mulberry, Prospect, Lemay, and Timberline were backed up for approximately 15+ minutes which caused cars to be backed up more than a half mile in all directions. This is absurd in many ways, especially in the area of risk management. Jul 3, 2012 9:27 AM 111 Some of the new construction does not fit the character of the neighborhood. Jul 3, 2012 8:53 AM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 42 112 Overly restrictive FoCo ordinances Jul 3, 2012 8:37 AM 113 A tendency toward some rentals, but not bad where I live yet. Jul 3, 2012 8:31 AM 114 Can't think of any -- even some of the larger rebuilds have a nice historical look, or fit well on the lots...I'd say all the controversy over size, etc. was overdone...not all old homes are historic; not all are worth saving Jul 3, 2012 8:23 AM 115 can't afford to live here any more Jul 3, 2012 8:20 AM 116 Less affordability for young couples and those meeting only median income levels. Also, with a tightening rental market and good location, this area has many rentals where owners do not keep up the appearance of homes. Jul 3, 2012 8:17 AM 117 No multi family developments. Please use our arts and business community to further develop the uniqueness of Old town, not housing. Allow that in mid town or south Jul 3, 2012 12:45 AM 118 Too many large new homes being built Jul 2, 2012 10:47 PM 119 See 3. Jul 2, 2012 10:33 PM 120 Increased traffic and subsequent decreased quality of air and safety; increase in slum lords around CSU Jul 2, 2012 10:03 PM 121 Lack of affordability, loss of history. Jul 2, 2012 9:53 PM 122 The houses are becoming discordant in appearance and as a result, some of the charm of the old town neighborhoods is being lost. Jul 2, 2012 9:44 PM 123 N/A Jul 2, 2012 9:39 PM 124 noise, increased density (alley houses, too big structures on small lots) in already dense neighborhoods Jul 2, 2012 9:33 PM 125 Some of the additions are quite ugly and inappropriate. I worry that the small rental behind me could someday be added onto. Jul 2, 2012 9:14 PM 126 The movement from attractive landscaping--whether it be grass or perennials--to dirt or rock, is most definitely detracting from the quality of the neighborhoods. I expect that this is a result of the increasing block rate water prices that the City instituted after the 2002 drought and never thereafter removed, and of the City's vigorous water "conservation" efforts. Jul 2, 2012 9:11 PM 127 Losing the architectural integrity of these neighborhoods reduces some of the attractiveness of living in Old Town Jul 2, 2012 9:10 PM 128 Still some irresponsible landlords, allowing negative living conditions for neighbors, and homes to fall into disrepair. Jul 2, 2012 8:50 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 43 129 New construction can devalue the historic character of the neighborhood and increase the property's environmental footprint. As a renter, I think many rental properties are not as well-maintained as they could be. It gives the rental community a bad eye and engenders animosity between renters and property owners. Jul 2, 2012 8:23 PM 130 Conflicting Parking enforcement between Police and Downtown Parking Management. As City Utilities increases electric fees fewer front porch lights are left on at night. Jul 2, 2012 8:21 PM 131 People are getting kicked out of their homes because builders are coming in. We are constantly being asked if we want to sell out home. We have neighbors who will no longer be able to pay their property taxes and will be forced out. Our street is getting busier and busier with no stop signs to slow traffic down. It is loud. People are building new homes that are huge with no consideration what this does to the people who already live here. Jul 2, 2012 8:16 PM 132 My garage has been spray painted/ "tagged". I would not feel safe walking late at night or early in the morning by myself. Jul 2, 2012 8:10 PM 133 Noise Jul 2, 2012 7:58 PM 134 see above Jul 2, 2012 7:45 PM 135 Dwarfing of existing residences and increased uniformity of new residences. Jul 2, 2012 7:36 PM 136 see previous... too large of new houses that dont fit the neighborhood, architectural design that is incompatible Jul 2, 2012 7:02 PM 137 loss of smaller more affordable homes, some new homes do not fit historic character of neighborhood, some mature landscaping is lost through construction Jul 2, 2012 6:51 PM 138 Proposed CSU football stadium is a major threat. We are not alumni, but are dedicated fans and supporters of Ram Athletics nonetheless out of our pride in this community. However, our opposition to the proposed stadium is based on rational consideration of the facts: Losing team (a stadium does not remedy that), other (greater) budgetary priorities, Hughes Stadium remains viable, devaluation & disruption of neighborhoods creates civic conflict. Simply put, there is no good rationale for it currently. Jul 2, 2012 6:06 PM 139 Construction taking so long at Dunn!! Jul 2, 2012 5:50 PM 140 See item 3 Jul 2, 2012 4:41 PM 141 contemporary architecture Jul 2, 2012 4:38 PM 142 All the city has done is to INCREASE the cost to live here, to purchase utilities, to dump our trash using the provider of our choice, to improve our property in the way we wish, and to live the way we wish. I would like to make my own choices, thank you. Jul 2, 2012 4:37 PM 143 None Jul 2, 2012 4:26 PM Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 44 Q6. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 45 Q7. Online Questionnaire Results Interested Citizens Page 46 Q8. Attachment 7 1 1 Eastside and Westside Neighborhoods Character Study City Council Work Session July 24, 2012 2 General Direction Sought and Specific Questions for Council 1. What feedback does Council have about Phase 1 results to date? 2. What comments or direction does Council have for staff on proceeding to the second phase of the study? 3. What comments does Council have on the remaining process, or schedule? Attachment 7 2 3 Direction for New Study •• May 24, 2011 Council Work Session Council directed staff to pursue new study •• November, 2011 Council Ad Hoc Committee Study outline confirmed with full Council on goal and approach for new process 4 New Approach from 2010 Process 2010 Study: •• Similar issues •• Led to a focus on building size •• Voluntary Design Assistance Initiatives •• Code changes repealed -citizen petition Attachment 7 3 5 Goal “ Identify mutually agreeable solutions and tools to help retain and enhance the unique character and context of the neighborhoods as they continue to change with renovations, additions, and new housing construction. ” “ Identify mutually agreeable solutions and tools to help retain and enhance the unique character and context of the neighborhoods as they continue to change with renovations, additions, and new housing construction. ” 6 New Approach of 2012 Study •• Fresh Start •• Broader, more in-in -depth •• New approach for collaboration •• Explore different ““ccoonntteexxttss”” Attachment 7 4 7 Planning Process Consists of Three Phases: Phase 1 Understand character/context in different parts of neighborhoods Phase 2 Develop Strategies for potential solutions Phase 3 Develop tools, systems, and actions to implement strategies 8 Study Area Attachment 7 5 9 Study Area, Eastside 10 Study Area, Westside Attachment 7 6 11 Phase I –– Public Engagement Activities: 12 Phase I –– Public Outreach Activities: April-Ongoing Provide online information June 6 3 Focus Group Meetings July 2-15 Online questionnaire July 10/12 Two neighborhood workshops July 24 Council Work Session April-Ongoing Provide online information June 6 3 Focus Group Meetings July 2-15 Online questionnaire July 10/12 Two neighborhood workshops July 24 Council Work Session Attachment 7 7 13 Phase 1 –– What We Heard So Far: Focus Group Meetings 14 Phase 1 –– What We Heard So Far: Online Online Questionnaire Questionnaire Attachment 7 8 15 INVITATION Eastside & Westside Neighborhoods Character Study Dear Eastside/Westside Property Owner: The City of Fort Collins invites you to participate in a new study taking a fresh look at neighborhood character and change in the city’s oldest neighborhoods. This will be a broader and more in- depth inquiry into the issues, building on all of the information and input from the previous 2010 study. The new study relies on working with people in the neighborhoods and other interested citizens. Each step will depend on what we find in public discussion. What we hear from you will be shared with City Council at their July 24 Work session. This letter is an open invitation to help this effort by participating in three specific ways: ◄1. Subscribe to the email list. So that we can send out future notices without additional costly mailings, please take a minute and provide your email address at the link at left. This list will not be used for any other purpose. If you prefer to be informed by regular mail in the future, please call and let us know at 970-221-6376. Email Subscription fcgov.com/eastwestneighborhoods 16 Phase 1 –– What We Heard So Far: Online Online Questionnaire Questionnaire Attachment 7 9 17 Property Owners Questionnaire: “Is there an issue or concern”? Property Owners Questionnaire: “Is there an issue or concern”? • 31% there is an issue but limited to a small number of projects • 18% there is an issue and it is widespread • 26% no issue or concern • 31% there is an issue but limited to a small number of projects • 18% there is an issue and it is widespread • 26% no issue or concern 18 • 60% some new construction is too large relative to neighborhidn houses • 55% some new construction diminishes neighborhood character. • 23% don’t think new construction or demolition create negative impacts • 60% some new construction is too large relative to neighborhidn houses • 55% some new construction diminishes neighborhood character. • 23% don’t think new construction or demolition create negative impacts Property Owners Questionnaire: “Negative Effects of New Construction”? Property Owners Questionnaire: “Negative Effects of New Construction”? Attachment 7 10 19 • 56% new construction can create negative effects. • 23% new construction does not diminish neighborhood character • 56% new construction can create negative effects. • 23% new construction does not diminish neighborhood character Property Owners Questionnaire: “Benefits of New Construction”? Property Owners Questionnaire: “Benefits of New Construction”? 20 • 40% there is an issue but limited to a small number of projects • 21% there is an issue and it is widespread • 15% no issue or concern • 40% there is an issue but limited to a small number of projects • 21% there is an issue and it is widespread • 15% no issue or concern Interested Citizens Questionnaire: “Is there an issue or concern”? Interested Citizens Questionnaire: “Is there an issue or concern”? Attachment 7 11 21 Phase 1 –– What We Heard So Far: Neighborhood Neighborhood Workshops Workshops 22 Neighborhood Workshops Neighborhood Workshops Attachment 7 12 23 Phase 1 –– What We Heard So Far: Neighborhood Neighborhood Workshops Workshops 24 Phase 1 –– What We Heard So Far: • Widely differing opinions among participants • Enough issues and concerns identified to indicate further need to continue discussion • Some citizens opposed to any new regulations and want to stop process now • Addressing issues in more focused ways may help address shared concerns • Widely differing opinions among participants • Enough issues and concerns identified to indicate further need to continue discussion • Some citizens opposed to any new regulations and want to stop process now • Addressing issues in more focused ways may help address shared concerns Attachment 7 13 25 Next Steps in Process: Phase 2 – Develop a Strategy: (August – November) • Visual Character Questionnaire • Economic Analysis • Produce preliminary strategies draft • Focus Group Meetings • Neighborhood Work Shops • Discussion with Boards/Commissions • Develop Strategy Paper • Council Work Session (November 27) 26 Next Steps in Process: Phase 3 – Develop Tools/Systems to Implement Strategy: • Develop preliminary list of tools and systems • Focus group meetings • Public Open House • Boards/Commissions • City Council consideration for adoption Phase 3 – Develop Tools/Systems to Implement Strategy: • Develop preliminary list of tools and systems • Focus group meetings • Public Open House • Boards/Commissions • City Council consideration for adoption Attachment 7 14 27 General Direction Sought and Specific Questions for Council 1. What feedback does Council have about Phase 1 results to date? 2. What comments or direction does Council have for staff on proceeding to the second phase of the study? 3. What comments does Council have on the remaining process, or schedule? ATTACHMENT 8 Strength of rental market Architecture Flexibility to expand houses Other (please specify) concerns. See "Observations and Themes" on page 27 for additional information. page 27 for additional in- formation. http://www.fcgov.com/advanceplanning/eastwestneighborhoods.php changes occurring in your neighborhood? • What information do you need to make informed decisions about the future of your neighborhood? • How can we ensure active community engagement? Wrap Up & Next Steps 10 Minutes For more information, visit the project Web site at http://www.fcgov.com/advanceplanning/eastwestneighborhoods.php Neighborhood Assets Neighborhood assets most of- ten identified by focus group participants were: • Variety/Diversity • Historic charm and character • Proximity to CSU, the library, Old Town, civic institutions and parks • Walkability and bike-friend- liness • Reinvestment in improve- ments • Overall "vibe" Preliminary Observations Based on focus group and workshop feedback, many residents feel that design di- versity is a key neighborhood asset. However, they also feel that some new construction is not a good fit within the ex- isting diverse context. Such residents may favor strate- gies that protect and enhance design diversity while ad- dressing mass and scale or other impacts associated with a relatively small number of new construction projects that "don't fit." See "Observations and Themes" on page 27 for additional information. neighborhoods? • How can we ensure active participation from a variety of stakeholders? Wrap Up & Next Steps 10 Minutes For more information, visit the project Web site at http://www.fcgov.com/advanceplanning/eastwestneighborhoods.php Preliminary Observations Based on focus group and workshop feedback, builders, realtors and other design in- dustry professionals generally feel that regulations should be kept simple. In many cases they also indicated that they felt over-regulation could damage residential neighbor- hoods. See "Observations and Themes" on page 27 for additional information. Railroad Lines Major Roads Minor Roads Westside Neighborhood Eastside Neighborhood Water Features City Limits Printed: July 18, 2012 CITY GEOGRAPHIC These and were map OF not products FORT designed and INFORMATION COLLINS or all intended underlying for general data SYSTEM are use developed by members MAP for use PRODUCTS of the by the public. City The of Fort City Collins makes for no its representation internal purposes or only, warranty dimensions, as to contours, its accuracy, property timeliness, boundaries, or completeness, or placement and of location in particular, of any its map accuracy features in thereon. labeling or THE displaying CITY OF FORT COLLINS PARTICULAR MAKES PURPOSE, NO WARRANTY EXPRESSED OF MERCHANTABILITY OR IMPLIED, WITH OR RESPECT WARRANTY TO THESE FOR FITNESS MAP PRODUCTS OF USE FOR OR THE UNDERLYING FAULTS, and assumes DATA. Any all responsibility users of these of map the use products, thereof, map and applications, further covenants or data, and accepts agrees them to hold AS the IS, City WITH harmless ALL from made and this against information all damage, available. loss, Independent or liability arising verification from of any all use data of contained this map product, herein should in consideration be obtained of by the any City's users having of these liability, products, whether or direct, underlying indirect, data. or consequential, The City disclaims, which and arises shall or not may be arise held from liable these for any map and products all damage, or the loss, use thereof or by any person or entity. NeWigehsbtosrihdoeod Neighborhood Eastside ATTACHMENT 1