HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 02/26/2013 - ITEMS RELATING TO THE 2012 STREETS AND STORMWATERDATE: February 26, 2013
STAFF: Pete Wray, Clark Mapes,
Basil Hamdan
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL 5
SUBJECT
Items Relating to the 2012 Streets and Stormwater Site Development Initiatives.
A. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 151, 2012, Adopting an Update to Appendix C of the Larimer County Urban
Area Street Standards Pertaining to “Streetscape Standards” for the City of Fort Collins.
.
B. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 152, 2012, Amending Chapter 26 of the City Code and the Fort Collins
Stormwater Criteria Manual to Incorporate Provisions Implementing Low Impact Development Principles.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ordinance No. 151, 2012 replaces the City of Fort Collins Streetscape Design Standards & Guidelines document with
a new version entitled “City of Fort Collins Streetscape Standards”. Ordinance No. 152, 2012 updates the City’s Low
Impact Development Criteria and Policy regarding the control and treatment of stormwater runoff from streets and site
development. Both Ordinances were unanimously adopted on First Reading on December 18, 2012.
The Streetscape Standards guide the treatment of parkway strips (between the curb and sidewalk), medians,
intersections, roundabouts, and key gateway intersections. For the new Streetscape standards document, staff is
proposing minor text revisions for Second Reading. One of the revisions requires Council consideration of three
options regarding parkway landscaping by homeowners in certain circumstances. Other revisions are clarifying edits.
The Low Impact Development (LID) Criteria and Policy addresses the City’s requirements and incentives for more
distributed stormwater runoff management and control which relies mainly on filtration and infiltration to treat and
manage the stormwater runoff. This approach will apply to private site development projects as well as to public street
projects. Ordinance No. 152, 2012, has been revised on Second Reading to improve the clarity of the description
of LID Criteria requirements.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Two Parts of a Larger Coordinated Program
These Ordinances are parts of a larger coordinated program called the 2012 Streets and Stormwater Site
Development Initiatives. While the two Ordinances were approved on First Reading, questions remained, needing
additional information for Second Reading.
1. Potential Revisions to New Streetscape Standards Document
Questions raised at First Reading prompted a potential text revision regarding parkway landscaping maintained by
homeowners. For this potential revision, three options are proposed for Council consideration. Attachments 2-4 show
the three options in redline/strikeout format. Attachment 5 is a staff summary of pros and cons of the options.
Staff is seeking a Council decision on which text option to adopt on Second Reading.
The options involve parkway landscaping in single family housing developments where approved development plans
specify turfgrass in the parkways.
While these parkways are publicly owned, it is the responsibility of private property owners to maintain the landscaping
except for street trees. Questions involve situations where an individual property owner wishes to change the
landscaping from that which is shown on the development plan.
February 26, 2013 -2- ITEM 5
Specifically, should Homeowners Association (HOA) approval be required for such changes, and what process is
reasonable for a homeowner to follow, if they want to change the approved landscaping in the parkway adjacent to
their lot?
Current Process
Currently, such a change requires a Minor Amendment request to amend the plan on file. There is currently a $350
filing fee for Minor Amendments. If the development has an HOA, then staff requires authorization by the HOA to
amend the development plan. The rationale is that HOA interests typically include the look and feel of the public space
in the neighborhood, and in some cases, HOAs maintain certain parkway areas.
The First Reading version of the Streetscape Standards reflects this current process.
Second Reading Revision Options
Second Reading options for potential text revisions involve combinations of two components. One component is a
requirement, or lack thereof, for an administrative process to amend development plans (e.g., the current Minor
Amendment process). Staff has identified a potential new process called “Parkway Landscaping Amendment”, with
a lower fee and better-fitting requirements than the current Minor Amendment process. Staff could create this
administratively.
The second component is a requirement, or lack thereof, for HOAs to authorize changes to approved plans for the
developments they govern.
Following is a summary of the options, along with the First Reading version for comparison:
First Reading version: Requires a Minor Amendment, which has a $350 fee; and requires HOA consent.
Option 1: Replace the Minor Amendment requirement with a new “Parkway Landscaping Amendment” and a lower
fee; and keep the HOA consent requirement (Attachment 2).
Option 2: Replace the Minor Amendment requirement with a new “Parkway Landscaping Amendment” and a lower
fee; and drop the HOA consent requirement (Attachment 3).
Option 3: Drop all City requirements (allow a homeowner to choose landscaping different than approved plan for the
development with no amendment to the plan.) (Attachment 4)
Note that where there is no approved development plan, there is no issue. The owner can landscape with or without
turfgrass. Standards include a few basic requirements for live plantings that are low-growing, but there is no formal
process.
In addition to text revisions for parkway landscaping described above, staff is proposing a clarifying statement that
“Appropriate irrigation shall be provided to maintain health of plantings with efficient use of water.” That statement is
shown on pages 36 and 43 of the document.
No other text edits are proposed except those shown on pages 36 and 43.
2. Low Impact Development Criteria and Policy Update - Ordinance No. 152, 2012
At First Reading, staff was asked for additional information about the financial impact of the proposed criteria. More
specifically, staff was asked to address the initial installation costs of pervious pavements and their potential impacts
on costs of development in Fort Collins.
Attachment 6 is a memo with explanation of the costs, and a cost comparison spreadsheet of an actual parking lot
example built in 2010 with side-by-side pervious and impervious pavement surfaces.
February 26, 2013 -3- ITEM 5
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinances on Second Reading.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Copy of First Reading Agenda Item Summary - December 18, 2012 (w/o attachments)
2. Option 1 for text revision, p. 43 of the Streetscape Standards document
3. Option 2 for text revision, p. 43 of the Streetscape Standards document
4. Option 3 for text revision, p. 43 of the Streetscape Standards document
5. Staff summary of pros and cons of options.
6. Memo re: Installation costs of permeable pavement systems
7. Powerpoint presentation
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ATTACHMENT 1
DATE: December 18, 2012
STAFF: Pete Wray, Clark Mapes,
Basil Hamdan
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL 14
SUBJECT
Items Relating to the 2012 Streets and Stormwater Site Development Initiatives.
A. First Reading of Ordinance No. 151, 2012, Adopting an Update to Appendix C of the Larimer County Urban
Area Street Standards Pertaining to “Streetscape Standards” for the City of Fort Collins.
.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 152, 2012, Amending Chapter 26 of the City Code and the Fort Collins
Stormwater Criteria Manual to Incorporate Provisions Implementing Low Impact Development Principles.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ordinance No. 151, 2012 replaces the City of Fort Collins Streetscape Design Standards & Guidelines document with
a new version entitled “City of Fort Collins Streetscape Standards”. Ordinance No. 152, 2012 updates the City’s Low
Impact Development Criteria and Policy regarding the control and treatment of stormwater runoff from streets and site
development.
The Streetscape Standards relate to the treatment of parkway strips (between the curb and sidewalk), medians,
intersections, roundabouts, and key gateway intersections. The update primarily involves raising the bar for the quality
of streetscape development in arterial medians and at key gateway intersections.
The City’s Low Impact Development (LID) Criteria and Policy addresses the City’s requirements and incentives for
more distributed stormwater runoff management and control which relies mainly on filtration and infiltration to treat and
manage the stormwater runoff. This approach will apply to private site development projects as well as to public street
projects.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Two Parts of a Larger Coordinated Program
City Council discussed these two initiatives at a work session on August 14, 2012, as two parts of a larger coordinated
program called the 2012 Streets and Stormwater Site Development Initiatives. Attachment 1 is a summary of that work
session. The larger program brings four related initiatives together under a unified theme. The other two initiatives
that are not part of this Council agenda item are an update to the street classifications in the Larimer County Urban
Area Street Standards, and a street demonstration project to test the ideas from all of the initiatives. These other
initiatives will be completed in 2013 and 2014.
Streetscape Design Standards & Guidelines Update
The current Streetscape Design Standards & Guidelines document was adopted in 2001 by the City and Larimer
County as Appendix C of the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards. Ordinance No. 151, 2012 replaces that
document with a new version, with the shortened title, Streetscape Standards. The new document is Exhibit A to the
Ordinance.
The document sets forth a whole approach toward streets as landscaped public spaces that contribute to Fort Collins
unique identity. It is used primarily by staff in City projects, operations, and budgets. Secondarily, it is used by
developers and property owners doing landscaping in the City right-of-way.
A key finding of this process is the need for an active City program to implement these standards. Staff has formed
an interdepartmental Streetscape Team to do so. The need for a team stems from the multidisciplinary nature of
streetscapes, involving engineering, urban design, horticulture, maintenance, and water use. The City program and
staff team is at least as important as the document itself to achieve the quality of planting-based streetscapes that are
described in the document.
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December 18, 2012 -2- ITEM 14
The key policy-level issues for the City involve “raising the bar” for arterial medians, including medians in roundabouts
and also for gateway intersection enhancement. Raising the bar involves corresponding costs for construction and
maintenance.
Besides the larger policy-level issues, the update also involves clarifications, adjustments, and additional details
regarding all aspects of streetscapes. Key topics that have been addressed in the update process include:
• Recognition of differences among arterial street corridors throughout the city on a new GIS map.
• Recognition of exceptional gateway intersections on the map.
• More detailed guidance for arterial median landscaping per the City’s vision for a distinctive, world class
community.
• More attention to the role of maintenance and life cycle costs in project programming and design.
• More attention to the role of an appropriate interdepartmental staff team.
• Consideration of best practices for landscape plantings including such factors as image, appropriate use of
water, storm runoff and drainage, chemical application impacts, maintenance, and replacement needs.
• Consideration of design solutions to acknowledge inevitable vehicular damage to streetscapes.
• Clarification of parkway landscaping between the curb and sidewalk, with a focus on questions of grass versus
planting beds.
Key Aspects of the Proposed New Standards
Streetscapes have a profound effect on the visual character of a city. They can express civic pride and values with
attention to the quality of public space.
A key difference between the proposed and existing documents is that the existing document is general and basic --
it essentially requires that street parkway strips and medians be landscaped, but does not specify a design or
maintenance approach beyond that general requirement. It is unclear on certain key points, such as the landscaping
in parkways; it does not recognize the differences between arterial streets in different parts of the city; and it does not
reflect adequate integration of design, maintenance, and management into a whole approach. Actual streetscapes
on the ground have tended to reflect a minimal landscape design and maintenance approach, particularly toward
arterial medians. The approach has been largely determined on an ad hoc or case-by-case basis rather than a
coordinated citywide program.
The proposed standards are clearer and provide more design guidance than existing standards. The community
benefits by enhanced community identity and appearance, with streetscapes that impart a sense of quality to Fort
Collins as a unique place.
The most significant changes in the updated document involve the following topics:
• Enhanced arterial street median landscaping, including medians in roundabouts.
The proposed standards are intended to reinforce Fort Collins’ identity with strong visual statements in arterial
streetscapes. To accomplish this, the standards give more specific direction for a garden-style approach to
design and maintenance of landscaping. They specify a more intensive planting program with color, texture,
detail, and variety in a palette of perennials, shrubs, and judicious use of annual flowers, in addition to street
trees. The palette of plants emphasizes native and similarly adapted plants with western regional character.
The whole approach includes the use of mulches and boulders in conjunction with plantings.
This landscaping is not only a matter of the standards document, but also involves an enhanced program with
a corresponding level of management and maintenance implemented by a staff streetscape team.
New standards also provide an updated design of concrete edges, and clarify the treatment of narrow median
areas, such as median noses that define left-turn bays. The standards expand planting into median noses
as narrow as three feet, as opposed to existing standards which have typically resulted in paving median
noses under seven feet in width.
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• Gateway intersections.
A new map identifies arterial intersections that warrant a heightened level of streetscape enhancements. An
example of such an intersection is the Harmony/College intersection, which was improved two years ago with
special urban design features such as planter pots on plinths, annual flowers, railings, pedestrian lights, public
art on signal poles, and lighted pylons. Another example is the Jefferson/Mountain intersection, which
received extensive design attention in 2011 for both roundabout and signalized options. It has not yet
progressed to final design or construction, but it demonstrated the approach that the standards require for
gateway intersections.
• Landscaping in parkways.
New standards clarify and describe the choices for landscaping in these strips at the interface between public
and private space. The existing 2001 document is unclear on this topic. For standard arterial streets,
turfgrass is required, and options for different types of turfgrass are described. For collector and local streets,
the choice of turfgrass or mulched planting beds is described, and both are permitted.
Policy Background
A clear theme in City Plan is the importance of City streets as public space that creates first impressions, is
experienced by all residents and visitors on a daily basis, and plays a large role in determining and conveying the civic
intentions of Fort Collins.
Closely related to City Plan, the Transportation Master Plan states:
• “Travel infrastructure will be high quality and recognized as world class by residents, visitors, and
peers.”
• “Transportation infrastructure will be designed to be sensitive to the surrounding land use context.”
• “Plan, build, and maintain streets, trails, intersections, and sidewalks as attractive public spaces”
These general themes are supported by a number of Principles and Policies that provide further guidance for
streetscapes to be beautiful, well-maintained, and context-sensitive.
Low Impact Development Criteria and Policy Update
City Council directed Stormwater staff prepared a Low Impact Development (LID) Policy Update in 2012. Over the
past year, staff has researched existing LID policies throughout the United States and identified key issues and
considerations. Staff developed a draft set of LID criteria and LID policy directives for consideration and adoption by
the Water Board, other Boards and Commissions, City Council and the citizens of Fort Collins. The Water Board and
City Council provided feedback and direction to staff to proceed toward adoption of a hybrid policy to require a
minimum level of LID features for all new developments, set at 50% of the total water quality treatment requirement.
Also, staff was directed to provide for an additional incentive-based approach beyond that minimum requirement,
aimed at achieving a higher level of LID implementation when possible and appropriate.
Low Impact Development (LID) is a comprehensive land planning and engineering design approach to capture and
filter runoff from smaller storm events at the source, with multiple, decentralized control and treatment techniques as
opposed to centralized treatment at large regional facilities only. This typically involves landscape areas and
permeable paving which allows water infiltration, using that characteristic of natural systems that existed before
development occurred. Controlling some stormwater at its source reduces the need for larger structures or end-of-
pipe treatment systems. Implementation of LID policies will have a cumulative effect on the size and type of
stormwater infrastructure. Distributing treatment and detention throughout the watershed will reduce the need for
regional treatment facilities, minimize the size of conveyance facilities (pipes and channels) needed to transport runoff
to receiving waters, and reduce the potential for erosion and sedimentation effects in our streams and waterways.
This will in turn have implications for planning, zoning, engineering, transportation and stormwater policies and
regulations.
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Key aspects of LID include:
• An overall site planning approach that promotes conservation design at both the watershed and site levels.
• A site design philosophy that emphasizes multiple controls (as opposed to a central treatment facility).
• The use of swales and open vegetated conveyances (as opposed to curb and gutter systems).
• Volume reduction for smaller storm events as a key objective (as opposed to peak flow reduction).
Over the last three years, the City has engaged in the design and construction of LID “Demonstration Projects” at
public and private sites. These existing projects are currently being monitored for structural integrity, cost of
maintenance, water quantity reduction and water quality improvement. Monitoring at these sites will continue beyond
the initial implementation of an LID Policy.
The LID Policy will affect not only public streets, but also private development. The effort can be viewed as an
extension of sustainable practices outside of the building envelope to the site design and layout.
Alternatives and Recommended Approach
In the update process, staff prepared a number of “Fact Sheets” that detail the extent of implementation of LID
technologies in various peer cities in Colorado and in other leading stormwater programs around the nation. LID
criteria vary widely from location to location based on geography, climate, hydrology, and any specially regulated
waterways.
Using all information about the range of choices and best practices, staff prepared three LID Policy alternatives for
review and consideration by affected stakeholders, various Boards and Commissions, City Council and the citizens
of Fort Collins.
1. A Required LID Alternative; whereby all new development will be required to construct their stormwater quality
drainage facilities using LID-type technologies.
2. A Fee-In-Lieu of Construction Alternative; whereby the City could build larger, more regional LID-type facilities
and the cost of the City’s investment in these facilities would be recovered through an additional stormwater
fee.
3. An Incentive-Based Approach; whereby LID construction would be encouraged through a variety of City
policies, including reduction of stormwater fees, inclusion into the Utilities’ ClimateWise program, or a
development overlay zone where LID-type stormwater management construction would be encouraged.
Council gave direction to staff to pursue a hybrid approach of Alternatives 1 and 3, whereby a minimum level of LID
implementation is required, and a system of incentives is developed to encourage the use of these technologies
beyond that minimum threshold.
The recommended LID criteria are:
• A minimum of 50% of new impervious surface area must be treated by an LID-type device or technology (i.e.,
bio-retention cell, bio-swale, pervious pavement); and
• At least 25% of new pavement areas must be designed to be pervious; or,
• Implementation of a design alternative that provides equal or better treatment to the previous requirements.
Additionally, projects that incorporate LID technologies and principles into their site design will be recognized through
the Utilities’ ClimateWise program.
Finally, stormwater plant investment fees will be based on a percent “Effective Impervious Area” rather than the current
“Percent Impervious” Area. Using such an approach, the stormwater impact fees will be set at a value commensurate
with the level of LID technologies provided.
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FINANCIAL / ECONOMIC IMPACTS
Financial/Economic Impacts of Streetscape Standards
Implementation of the updated streetscape standards will require increments of additional cost for arterial medians,
and for enhanced gateway intersections. The additional costs reflect “raising the bar” for plant material coverage,
urban design enhancements, and better irrigation systems. A general characterization of the higher cost increments
follows, to give a sense of the order of magnitude of cost increments.
Cost impacts for arterial medians
1. Construction cost increment. Higher construction costs associated with the new standards mostly stem from
increased plant material coverage. Other components are similar in cost to “typical” medians without the
proposed standards.
In a landscaping project to renovate an existing median, the additional increment of cost may be characterized
as approximately 15-25% of the project cost. A reasonable example would be about a $10,000 increment in
a $50,000 project to renovate a common-size median of 6,000 square feet.
In a street project to construct a new median, the additional increment of cost may be characterized as
approximately 7-12% of the median cost. A reasonable example would be about a $12,000 increment in a
$140,000 project to construct a new landscaped 6,000 square-foot median.
2. Maintenance cost increment. Higher maintenance costs associated with the new standards mostly stem from
the need for more frequent and skilled horticultural maintenance of perennials and shrubs, along with slightly
higher standards for replenishing mulches and maintaining irrigation systems. A reasonable example would
be about a $1,000 annual increment for a 6,000 square-foot median.
3. Plant replacement cost increment. Higher replacement costs associated with the new standards stem from
the fact that perennials and shrubs have varying life spans and must be replaced periodically. A reasonable
example would be an increment of about $900 annually for a 6,000 square-foot median.
Cost impacts for enhanced gateway intersections
1. Construction cost increment. Two rules of thumb may be used to characterize higher costs associated with
future streetscape projects at these intersections: streetscape enhancements may add approximately
$700,000 to a “typical” intersection project, and may constitute approximately 20-30% of the total cost of a
given intersection.
2. Maintenance cost increment. For enhanced plantings including annuals, and an allowance for electrical work,
painting of metal urban design features, and vandalism repair, a reasonable example would be an increment
of approximately $5,500 annually.
Financial/Economic Impacts of LID Policy
Implementation of the updated LID Policy is expected to have a net positive overall economic impact for new
construction. In general, LID practices tend to be much more cost effective in highly urbanized areas, where land
values are higher, as compared to "green field" development.
The initial cost of constructing LID facilities along with other conventional drainage infrastructure which may still be
needed, is typically higher than for non-LID development. However, life-cycle analysis of costs and benefits typically
shows that higher costs can typically be recovered through increased property values, reduced maintenance costs,
and reduced replacement costs.
City staff analyzed the economic impacts of LID technologies in a recently completed development project in the city,
and found that the project realized a net benefit through more efficient, multi-functional use of on-site space, added
flexibility in site layout, reduced infrastructure needs, and added property value. In that example, a permeable
pavement material was chosen over a portion of the parking lot. The initial investment costs were increased by a factor
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of 2.2 for the permeable pavement materials compared to conventional asphalt paving. However these costs were
offset by a smaller detention pond size needed, the elimination of a storm sewer system and a more flexible use of
space.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Environmental Impacts of Streetscape Standards
Direct environmental impacts of the new Streetscape Standards are minimal. The most significant effects of the
standards involve the landscape architecture of arterial medians and gateway intersections, and the effects are more
aesthetic than environmental per se. The new standards emphasize regionally appropriate, low-water use plantings,
with efficient irrigation systems, to enhance the beauty and character of arterial streets high-visibility public spaces.
Because median landscaping which has been occurring under existing standards is already typically water-efficient,
there is no definable impact upon water demands due to the new standards.
Environmental Impacts of LID Policy
By adopting the LID policy standards and criteria update several environmental impacts can be anticipated:
1. Protection of water quality: LID infiltration techniques will capture sediment and pollutant at the source.
Chemical processes during infiltration of runoff will filter the storm runoff resulting in cleaner effluent from
developed areas.
2. Protection of streams and waterways: watershed-level implementation of LID technologies has been shown
to considerably reduce the impact of pollutants on natural waterways and streams through the reduction of
introduced sediments and pollutants into natural systems.
3. Increased flood protection through the reduction of impervious surfaces: impervious areas increase the
amount of runoff that leaves a site, as undeveloped lands that allow for natural infiltration of rain water are
replaced with impervious surfaces such as buildings, sidewalks and pavement.
4. Reduced land disturbance: the use of these techniques encourages the minimization of land disturbance
especially near sensitive eco-systems.
5. Improved landscape and aesthetics: LID implementation will add to the overall site aesthetics by replacing
traditional “grey infrastructure” such as pipes and concrete conveyance structures with a functional system
using techniques such as grass buffers, grass swales, infiltration strips, rain gardens, or other “green
infrastructure” systems.
6. Protection of natural resources: LID technologies often incorporate the use of waste-stream materials into
the construction of drainage facilities, including the re-use of recycled asphalt, recycled concrete, and
shredded paper materials (used in rain gardens and bio retention cells). LID techniques may also reduce
demand for resource-intensive materials as natural systems reduce the need for asphalt, concrete and other
intensive resource-depleting materials.
6. Reduced energy demand: through shading and infiltration techniques, LID reduces “heat-island” effects in
developed areas as the evaporation of infiltrated waters from landscaped and pervious areas has a cooling
effect on developed sites.
7. Reduced water consumption: through the re-use of stormwater runoff to irrigate landscaped areas, combined
with the use of low-water demand grasses and other plant materials, water consumption may be reduced.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinances on First Reading.
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BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Planning and Zoning Board
At its November 15, 2012 meeting, the Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously on consent to recommend
adoption of Ordinance No. 151, 2012, adopting an update to Appendix C of the Larimer County Urban Area Street
Standards, which comprises the City of Fort Collins Streetscape Design Standards and Guidelines.
Water Board
At its November 15, 2012 meeting, the Water Board voted unanimously to recommend adoption of Ordinance No.
152, 2012 amending Chapter 26 of the City Code and the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual to Incorporate
Provisions Implementing Low Impact Development Principles.
Natural Resources Advisory Board
At its November 26, 2012 meeting, the Natural Resources Advisory Board voted unanimously to recommend adoption
of Ordinance No. 152, 2012 amending Chapter 26 of the City Code and the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual
to Incorporate Provisions Implementing Low Impact Development Principles.
Parks and Recreation Board
At its December 5, 2012 meeting, the Parks and Recreation Board voted 7-2 to recommend adoption of Ordinance
No. 151, 2012, adopting an update to Appendix C of the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards, which
comprises the City of Fort Collins Streetscape Design Standards and Guidelines.
PUBLIC OUTREACH
The planning process for the 2012 Initiatives has included public outreach spanning the past two years, including the
following:
• Updates to the Planning and Zoning Board, Transportation Board, Water Board, and City Council.
• A public open house meeting (August 9, 2012).
• A presentation/discussion with the Fort Collins Chamber of Commerce.
• A presentation/discussion with City Council at a work session on August 14, 2012
• A presentation/discussion with the US Green Building Council of Northern Colorado Branch.
• A booth at the Climate Wise Business Innovations Fair.
ATTACHMENTS
1. August 14, 2012 City Council Work Session Summary
2. Planning and Zoning Board minutes, November 15, 2012
3. Water Board Meeting minutes, November 15, 2012
4. Natural Resources Advisory Board minutes, November 26, 2012
5. Parks and Recreation Board minutes, December 5, 2012
SECTION 6
Collector and
Local Streets
6.1
PARKWAY LANDSCAPING
Streetscapes on collector and local
streets typically consist of parkways
only. The primary intent for parkway
landscaping is to provide a setting for
street trees, and work in conjunction
with street trees for a number of
purposes:
Define streets as the framework of
public space within which individual
properties fit.
Contribute to the attractiveness and
visual interest of the street edge.
Mark the transition from public to
private space.
Blend public interests in street
infrastructure with interests of
abutting property owners who are
required to maintain these parkways
by City Code.
6.1.1 Two approaches.
Two main approaches to landscaping
parkways are permitted in collector
and local streets: turf-type grasses, and
mulched planting beds. PThe pros and
cons of each are discussed in Section 4.
In both approaches, appropriate
irrigation shall be provided to maintain
health of plantings with efficient use of
water.
In developments where there is no
development plan that specifies
parkway landscaping, the owner of the
property abutting the parkway may
select either approach, regardless of
any Homeowner Association covenants
that may apply to the development,
and shall be responsible for the
installation and maintenance of the
parkway landscaping in accordance
with Section 24-42 of the City Code.
6.1.23 New development landscape
plans.
Where a developer desires to offer non-
turf grass options to homeowners, the
landscape plan shall contain notes and
drawings specifying options for non-turf
ground cover plantings, with consistent
mulch and a recommended plant
palette.
6.1.32 Approved development plans
govern.
InFor developments with approved
landscape plans, the parkway
landscaping must be in accordance with
the plan.
Turf-type grass shall be permitted,
including both cool-season turfgrasses
and warm-season native shortgrasses as
discussed in Section 4. The choice of
grass species and variety can make a
major difference in water use needs,
ease of establishment, survival of the
grass, weeding, mowing, and
renovation requirements.
SECTION 6
Collector and
Local Streets
6.1
PARKWAY LANDSCAPING
Streetscapes on collector and local
streets typically consist of parkways
only. The primary intent for parkway
landscaping is to provide a setting for
street trees, and work in conjunction
with street trees for a number of
purposes:
Define streets as the framework of
public space within which individual
properties fit.
Contribute to the attractiveness and
visual interest of the street edge.
Mark the transition from public to
private space.
Blend public interests in street
infrastructure with interests of
abutting property owners who are
required to maintain these parkways
by City Code.
6.1.1 Two approaches.
Two main approaches to landscaping
parkways are permitted in collector
and local streets: turf-type grasses, and
mulched planting beds. PThe pros and
cons of each are discussed in Section 4.
In both approaches, appropriate
irrigation shall be provided to maintain
health of plantings with efficient use of
water.
In developments where there is no
development plan that specifies
parkway landscaping, the owner of the
property abutting the parkway may
select either approach, regardless of
any Homeowner Association covenants
that may apply to the development,
and shall be responsible for the
installation and maintenance of the
parkway landscaping in accordance
with Section 24-42 of the City Code.
6.1.32 New development landscape
plans.
Where a developer desires to offer non-
turf grass options to homeowners, the
landscape plan shall contain notes and
drawings specifying options for non-turf
ground cover plantings, with consistent
mulch and a recommended plant
palette.
6.1.23 Approved development plans
govern.
For developments with approved
landscape plans, the parkway
landscaping must be in accordance with
the plan.
6.1.4 Turf‐type grass.
Turf-type grass shall be permitted,
including both cool-season turfgrasses
and warm-season native shortgrasses as
discussed in Section 4. The choice of
grass species and variety can make a
major difference in water use needs,
ease of establishment, survival of the
grass, weeding, mowing, and
renovation requirements.
SECTION 6
Collector and
Local Streets
6.1
PARKWAY LANDSCAPING
Streetscapes on collector and local
streets typically consist of parkways
only. The primary intent for parkway
landscaping is to provide a setting for
street trees, and work in conjunction
with street trees for a number of
purposes:
Define streets as the framework of
public space within which individual
properties fit.
Contribute to the attractiveness and
visual interest of the street edge.
Mark the transition from public to
private space.
Blend public interests in street
infrastructure with interests of
abutting property owners who are
required to maintain these parkways
by City Code.
6.1.1 Two approaches.
Two main approaches to landscaping
parkways are permitted in collector
and local streets: turf-type grasses, and
mulched planting beds. PThe pros and
cons of each are discussed in Section 4.
In both approaches, appropriate
irrigation shall be provided to maintain
health of plantings with efficient use of
water.
The owner of the property abutting the
parkway may select either approach,
regardless of any Homeowner
Association covenants that may apply
to the development, and the property
owner shall be responsible for the
installation and maintenance of the
parkway landscaping in accordance
with Section 24-42 of the City Code.
6.1.2 New development landscape
plans.
Where a developer desires to offer non-
turf grass options to homeowners, the
landscape plan shall contain notes and
drawings specifying options for non-turf
ground cover plantings, with consistent
mulch and a recommended plant
palette.
6.1.3 Approved development plans
govern.
For developments with approved
landscape plans, the parkway
landscaping must be in accordance with
the plan.
A Homeowners Association (HOA), or a
property owner with approval from the
ATTACHMENT 5
Utilities
C
.t
f
electric
storrnwater
wastewater
water
I
0
700 Wood
Street
Fort
CoLLins
Fort
Cothns,
CO
80522
970.224.6003
TDD
utillties@fcgov.com
fcgov.comlutilities
DATE:
January
3,2013
TO:
Mayor
and
City
Councilmembers
THROUGH:
Darin
Atteherry,
City
Manager
‘N!Z
Brian
Janonis,
Utilities
Executive
Director’,
Jon
Haukaas,
Water
Engineering
and
Fiel&Operations
Manager—
Ken
Sampley,
Stormwater
Program
Manager
j.c_c
FROM:
Basil
Hamdan,
Stormwater
Quality Engineer
RE:
Cityof
Fort
Collins
storm
water
inlets
and
piping
and
requires
a
reduced detention
pond
size.
At
this
point
the
cost comparison
is
approximately
1.1
comparing payers
to
asphalt.
3.)
The
total
25
year
life
cycle
cost
for
each type
of
construction.
The
maintenance
and
repair
of
asphalt paving
adds
significant
costs
when
compared
to
paver
construction.
The
final
life
cycle costs for
the
asphalt
paving
is
approximately
Side
By
Side
Parking
Lot
Example
Asphalt Surface - North Parking Lot
Asphalt Surface Installation
Detention Pond Construction
Inlets
Manholes
Pipe Installation
Total Initial Costs
Crack Sealing
Seal Coat or Replace Paved Surface
Patching
Land Value
Total Life Cycle Costs
Unit Life Cycle Cost (25 years)
Paver Surface - South Parking Lot
Paver Surface Installation
Detention Pond Construction
Total Initial Costs
Vacuum Sweeping
Restore Permeability
Refresh Base
Land Value
Total Life Cycle Costs
Unit Life Cycle Cost (25 years)
Item Detail
Asphalt Surface Base Course and Sub Base
Excavating/Hauling/Topsoil/Seeding
(4x4) Concrete Area/Curb Inlets (Box and Grate
4 ft. Concrete Manhole
24’ RCP Pipe (RCP Pipe Required)
Subtotal of Initial Installation Costs
Routine yearly maintenance
As needed/ 5 years average
As needed! 5 years average
Appreciation/Depreciation
25-year Planning Horizon
Costs Adjusted for Parking Lot Size
Item Detail
Paver Surface/Base Course and Sub Base
Excavating/Hauling/Topsoil/Seeding
Subtotal of Initial Installation Costs
Routine yearly maintenance
Vaccum and replace aggregate
Replace Base/Drain/Reuse Payers
Appreciation/Depreciation
25-year Planning Horizon
Costs Adjusted for Parking Lot Size
Notes
2010 CDOT estimate
Larger Pond/No Detention Below
Kiefer Concrete Estimate
Minimum Size Used
2010 CDOT Estimate
Routine Maintenance
2010 CDOT Estimate
ORDINANCE NO. 151, 2012
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
ADOPTING AN UPDATE TO APPENDIX C OF THE LARIMER COUNTY
URBAN AREA STREET STANDARDS PERTAINING TO
“STREETSCAPE STANDARDS” FOR THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
WHEREAS, the Streetscape Design Standards and Guidelines (“SDSG”) document was
initially adopted in 2001 and was made a part of the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards
to be applied inside the City; and
WHEREAS, the SDSG provides details for creating streets that are visually appealing as
public spaces and that contribute to the City's distinct identity; and
WHEREAS, City staff has prepared an update to the SDSG, now called the “Streetscape
Standards” for the City, which increases requirements for landscaping in arterial medians and
clarifies and updates information throughout the document; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the amendments to the SDSG comport
with the principles and policies contained in City Plan, and are in the best interests of the City and,
accordingly, should be adopted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
COLLINS that the update to Appendix C of the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards
pertaining to “Streetscape Standards ” for the City, dated December 12, 2012, a copy of which is
attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, is hereby adopted for inclusion in the Larimer County Urban Area
Street Standards.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 18th day of
December, A.D. 2012, and to be presented for final passage on the 26th day of February, A.D. 2013.
_________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on the 26th day of February, A.D. 2013.
_________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
Streetscape Standards
February 19, 2012
Long Range Planning
281 North College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
970-221-6376
fcgov.com/planning
For additional copies, please download from our website, or contact us using the
information above.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | i
Acknowledgements
City Council
Karen Weitkunat, Mayor
Kelly Ohlson, Mayor Pro Tem, Dist. 5
Ben Manvel, District 1
Lisa Poppaw, District 2
Aislinn Kottwitz, District 3
Wade Troxell, District 4
Gerry Horak, District 6
Planning & Zoning Board
Gino Campana
Jennifer Carpenter
John Hatfield
Kristin Kirkpatrick
Brigitte Schmidt
Andy Smith
Butch Stockover
Project Staff Team
Pete Wray, Senior City Planner (Project
Manager)
Clark Mapes, City Planner
Bruce Hendee, Chief Sustainability
Officer
Sherry Albertson-Clark, Planning Manager
(Interim)
Kraig Bader, Standards Engineering
Manager
Tim Buchanan, City Forester
Laurie D’Audney, Water Conservation
Specialist
Paul Eckman, Deputy City Attorney
Basil Hamdan, Civil Engineer II
Becca Henry, Graphic Designer
Aaron Iverson, Senior Transportation
Planner
Dean Klingner, Civil Engineer III
Sheri Langenberger, Development Review
Manager
Amy Lewin, Transportation Planner
Steve Lukowski, Parks Supervisor
Joe Olson, City Traffic Engineer
Michelle Provaznik, Director of the
Gardens on Spring Creek
Rick Richter, Engineering and Capital
Projects Manager
Bill Whirty, Manager of Parks
Ralph Zentz, Assistant City Forester
Tom Knostman, Pavement Engineer
Consultants
Ripley Design, Inc.
Daman Holland
P a g e | ii CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | iii
Table of Contents
SECTION 1
Purpose and Intent ................. 1
SECTION 2
Applicability & Use ................. 3
SECTION 3
Project Plan Submittal
and Review .......................... 5
3.1 STREETSCAPE PROJECT
DESCRIPTION REQUIRED .................... 5
SECTION 4
All Streets ............................ 7
4.1 STREET TREES ........................... 7
4.2 PARKWAY LANDSCAPING – TURF
-TYPE GRASS ................................ 12
4.3 PARKWAY LANDSCAPING -
ALTERNATIVES TO TURF-TYPE GRASS ... 13
4.4 SIGHT DISTANCE TRIANGLES
AT INTERSECTIONS ......................... 14
4.5 LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT –
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT ............. 15
SECTION 5
Arterial Streets .................... 19
5.1 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPES MAP ....... 20
5.2 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE
DESIGN: STANDARD ARTERIAL
STREETSCAPES - MEDIANS ................. 22
5.3 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE
DESIGN: STANDARD ARTERIAL
STREETSCAPES - PARKWAYS .............. 36
5.4 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE
DESIGN: ENHANCED TRAVEL
CORRIDORS (ETC’S) ........................ 36
5.5 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
OTHER SPECIAL PLANNING AREAS ........ 37
5.6 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE
DESIGN: CONSTRAINED CORRIDORS
AND SEGMENTS ............................. 38
5.7 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE
DESIGN: GATEWAY INTERSECTIONS ...... 38
5.8 ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE
DESIGN: COMMUNITY ENTRANCE
GATEWAYS (I-25) ........................... 41
SECTION 6
Collector And Local Streets ..... 43
6.1 PARKWAY LANDSCAPING .............. 43
SECTION 7
Maintenance Standards .......... 47
7.1 TREE MAINTENANCE AND
MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS ............ 47
7.2 MAINTENANCE RESPONSIBILITIES .... 47
7.3 ACCEPTANCE OF NEW ARTERIAL
STREETSCAPE PROJECTS FOR
CITY MAINTENANCE ........................ 48
7.4 GENERAL MAINTENANCE
STANDARDS .................................. 49
P a g e | iv CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
SECTION 8
Irrigation Standards ............... 51
8.1 IRRIGATION SYSTEM DESIGN ......... 51
8.2 MATERIALS STANDARDS ............... 52
8.3 INSTALLATION PREPARATION ........ 55
8.4 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES ......... 55
8.5 TESTING................................. 59
8.6 COMPLETION SERVICES ............... 60
8.7 GUARANTEE/WARRANTY
AND REPLACEMENT ........................ 61
SECTION 9
Fine Grading And Soil
Preparation Standards ............ 63
9.1 GENERAL STANDARDS ................. 63
9.2 SUBMITTALS ............................ 63
9.3 MATERIALS STANDARDS ............... 63
9.4 ROUGH GRADING OPERATIONS ...... 64
9.5 FINISH GRADING OPERATIONS ....... 64
SECTION 10
Grass Seeding Standards ......... 67
10.1 GRASS SEEDING ....................... 67
EXHIBIT A
List of Recommended Plants .... 71
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 1
SECTION 1
Purpose and Intent
Based on the City of Fort Collins’ vision
to create a vibrant, world class
community, these standards set forth a
coordinated approach to the design and
management of streets as visually
appealing public spaces that contribute
to Fort Collins’ distinct identity.
The term “streetscape” generally
encompasses the visual and pedestrian
environment of a street. These
streetscape standards involve parameters
for tree-lined streets and sidewalks,
other landscaping along street edges,
and landscaped medians in arterial
streets.
In addition to plantings, streetscapes
may also encompass various urban design
elements in certain settings. Examples
include special curb treatments and
median edges, low planter walls and
landscape walls, railings, bollards,
planter pots, stone features, public art,
pylons, specialty lighting, signal and light
pole treatments, specialty paving, transit
stops and furnishings, and the like.
Every streetscape project involves its
own context and constraints. Still, there
is a need for standards to set the bar for
level of quality and investment. These
standards provide a framework for
programming, budgeting, designing,
maintaining, and renovating various
incremental projects as part of a whole
approach.
Exact details must then be adapted to fit
and function with the unique context and
constraints which exist in every project.
The context and constraints include
existing conditions that are expected to
remain for the long term, and future
change planned or envisioned by the
City.
P a g e | 2 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 3
SECTION 2
Applicability &
Use
These standards apply to all projects
involving streetscapes in the City right-
of-way including:
Private development projects.
City capital projects.
Any other miscellaneous
maintenance and renovation
projects and efforts.
Private development and public capital
projects may involve construction of
new streets, and/or changes to existing
streets.
The standards are intended to be used
by:
Staff, in the design and
management of City streetscapes
over time.
Landscape architects and designers.
Developers and decision makers in
the development review process.
Property owners, where plans and
activities involve streetscapes.
Citizens, City Councils, and staff, in
discussions involving streetscape
issues.
P a g e | 4 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 5
SECTION 3
Project Plan
Submittal and
Review
Streetscape projects that are part of
development applications follow a
standard City development review
process, which will include
collaboration with staff on streetscape
design.
City capital projects involving
streetscapes are reviewed
administratively by interested City
departments in an internal process of
collaboration and routing of plans.
3.1
STREETSCAPE PROJECT
DESCRIPTION REQUIRED
For streetscapes to be successful, it is
important for City staff in multiple
departments to have a clear
understanding of the design intent,
assumptions, and the needs for
maintenance, monitoring, and
replacements of plants or other
components.
A project description is needed to
supplement technical project plans.
The purpose is to prompt designers and
staff to record the whole story of the
streetscsape project.
3.1.1 Streetscape Project Description
required.
All streetscape projects involving
landscaping and urban design elements
shall include a Streetscape Project
Description developed by City staff in
collaboration with any project
consultants, upon completion of design.
The description shall:
Be concise and avoid technical
jargon.
Include relevant commentary in
addition to objective facts and
information.
Describe the design intent,
assumptions, and maintenance and
renovations that will be needed
over time to realize the design
intent.
Note all aspects of the project from
initial grading and soil preparation,
to irrigation systems, to planting
and establishment procedures, to
management and maintenance.
Note outstanding issues that need to
be monitored over time.
Examples of topics to be addressed
include:
P a g e | 6 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Plant species with a limited track
record in streetscapes that warrant
monitoring.
Mulches that need replenishing or
clean-up.
Urban design features that may
need touch ups, replacements,
stocking of parts, or other
maintenance and renovations.
Any other information useful for
future understanding and
management of the streetscape.
3.1.2 Project Statement File.
Staff shall maintain Project Statements
for streetscapes on file.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 7
SECTION 4
All Streets
The following standards apply to all
street classifications city-wide, except
where specific areas have applicable
planning documents that set forth
alternative standards tailored to the
area.
4.1
STREET TREES
Rows of street trees along street edges
are the fundamental, unifying element
of continuity in city streetscapes.
Street trees can be considered as
multi-functional public infrastructure
that:
Defines the street as distinct space,
providing a unifying framework for
abutting developments.
Provides canopy shading along
streets and sidewalks to reduce
glare and summer heat build-up.
Provides a buffer between
pedestrians on the sidewalk and
vehicles in the roadway.
Provides space for streetlights and
signs, and for snow storage in
winter.
Street trees in an arterial parkway.
4.1.1 Tree planting in parkways.
Wherever the sidewalk is separated
from the curb in accordance with the
Larimer County Urban Area Street
Standards, rows of canopy shade trees
shall be planted in the parkway at 30 to
40 foot intervals, centered between
the curb and the sidewalk.
Street trees in a local street parkway.
P a g e | 8 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
4.1.2 Species groupings within tree
rows.
To the extent reasonably feasible,
street tree rows in landscape areas,
whether inside or outside of the
sidewalk, shall be in groupings of three,
five, or more of a single species. The
intent is to provide a degree of species
diversity within a deliberate, repeating
design pattern.
Designers are encouraged to arrange
changes in species to reflect roadway
conditions, such as open stretches of
roadway between access points,
stretches approaching intersections and
driveways, and/or changes in adjoining
land use.
Plan view illustration
of street trees
showing groupings.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 9
4.1.3 Street trees in sidewalk
cutouts.
If a project involves a new sidewalk
that must be attached to the curb due
to unique constraints or context, then
the sidewalk width shall be wide
enough to incorporate planting cutouts
with tree grates to the maximum
extent feasible.
To the maximum extent feasible,
such sidewalks shall be 12-15 feet
wide with cutouts at least 25 square
feet at 30- to 50-foot spacing.
Larger cutouts with more than 25
square feet are encouraged.
In all cases, trees in sidewalk
cutouts shall be located at least 8
feet away from buildings and offset
from building entrances.
If such an attached sidewalk has an
abutting landscape area, then 8 feet
shall be the minimum width in
which canopy trees shall be
provided in sidewalk cutouts.
The minimum area of any sidewalk
cutouts shall be 16 square feet,
using 4x4-foot tree grates. Larger
cutouts with more than 16 square
feet of area are encouraged, for
example 4x6-foot or 4x9-foot tree
grates, to support tree health.
8-foot sidewalk with 4’x4’ tree grates, where there is
an abutting landscape area.
The soil surface in a sidewalk cutout
shall be level with the bottom of
the sidewalk slab. Trees shall then
be planted with the top of the root
ball 1-2 inches above the soil
surface.
All tree grates shall be installed per
manufacturer’s instructions.
Frames shall be set in a true, flat
plane to prevent rocking of the
grate. The grate or a template shall
be set in the frame before concrete
is poured to ensure the final
installation is square and flat.
Grates shall be of a pedestrian-safe
ADA-compliant style with slot
openings 3/8-inch or less.
A spacing interval up to 50 feet shall
be permitted for street trees in
grates where abutting commercial
buildings face the street with no
intervening vehicle use area
between the street and the
building.
P a g e | 10 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
4.1.4 Tree planting outside of
sidewalks where existing constraints
preclude parkway tree planting or
sidewalk cutouts.
Where a sidewalk is attached to the
curb and is less than 8 feet in width,
canopy shade trees shall, to the extent
reasonably feasible, be established in
an area ranging from 3 to 7 feet behind
the sidewalk at 30 to 40 foot intervals.
This standard shall also apply where
unusual constraints preclude tree
planting in a parkway.
Any such planting will typically require
coordination with abutting property
owners.
Examples of street trees outside of sidewalks.
4.1.5 Adjustment of spacing
intervals.
The Director or the City Forester may
approve or require larger or smaller
spacing intervals to better fit the
growth habits of different street tree
species, for safe use of the street or
sidewalk, and to better fit with existing
trees or other existing conditions
unique to the location.
4.1.6 Overhead power line conflicts.
Ornamental trees may be planted in
substitution of the canopy shade trees
where overhead lines and fixtures
prevent normal growth and maturity.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 11
4.1.7 Spacing from driveways.
No tree shall be planted closer than 8
feet from any driveway or alley.
4.1.8 Tree separation from utilities.
Landscape and utility plans shall be
coordinated. Following are the
minimum dimension requirements for
the most common tree/utility
separations.
40 feet between canopy shade trees
and streetlights. Fifteen (15) feet
between ornamental trees and
streetlights.
10 feet between trees and water or
sewer lines.
4 feet between trees and gas lines.
4 feet between trees and
underground electric lines shall be
provided to the extent reasonably
feasible.
Exceptions to these requirements may
occur where utilities are not located in
their standard designated locations, as
approved by the City Forester or the
Director. Tree/utility separations shall
not be used as a means of avoiding the
planting of required street trees.
8’ min.
D r i v e w a y
40’ min.
Canopy Shade
Trees
15’ min.
Ornamental
Trees
Tree separations from streetlights and
driveways.
P a g e | 12 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
4.2
PARKWAY LANDSCAPING – TURF-
TYPE GRASS
Turf-type grass in parkways provides a
multi-functional solution for
landscaped edges along city streets of
all classifications. Two main types of
turf-type grasses may be used in Fort
Collins streetscapes: cool-season
turfgrasses, and warm-season native
shortgrasses. Cool-season turfgrasses
include improved varieties of Kentucky
Bluegrass, Tall Fescue, Perennial
Ryegrass, and Wheatgrasses. Warm-
season native shortgrasses include
improved varieties of Buffalograss and
Blue Grama.
Efficiently irrigated, mowed cool-
season turfgrass provides a living green
edge to city streets over a long growing
season. The green edge, along with
street trees, is a unifying element that
helps define City streets as continuous
spaces, in conjunction with street
trees.
Cool-season turfgrass can be a
sustainable, functional landscape
solution consistent with “xeriscape”
and “water-wise” landscaping
principles. These principles recognize
cool-season turfgrass as an appropriate
use of water in high visibility, multi-
functional, high-use areas, and
parkways typically fit that description.
Cool-season turfgrass can be reasonably
drought tolerant, depending on the
species and improved variety.
Problems resulting from periods of
neglect are relatively easy to correct,
and the turf rarely, if ever, needs
replacement.
Non-gardeners and typical commercial
crews can readily maintain cool-season
turfgrass. It naturally inhibits weeds,
and mowing is an efficient way to
control weeds that do occur. It works
well in conjunction with street trees
with tolerance for shading. In winter,
dormant turf is easy to keep tidy and
trash-free. It tolerates foot traffic
better than any other living ground
cover.
Turfgrass parkways provide continuity and multiple
functions.
Blue Grama and Buffalograss have very
low irrigation and mowing needs. They
are active and green for a shorter
season than cool-season turfgrasses,
but have an attractive straw color
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 13
4.2.1 Requirements.
Section 5 includes parkway landscaping
standards for Arterial Streets. Section
6 includes parkway landscaping
standards for Collector and Local
Streets.
4.3
PARKWAY LANDSCAPING -
ALTERNATIVES TO TURF-TYPE
GRASS
Mulched planting beds can be an
acceptable alternative solution to
turfgrass for parkway landscaping in
some situations.
This alternative typically requires less
water than cool-season turfgrass. With
appropriate plant selection and proper
maintenance it can offer seasonal
interest and add character. While
maintenance needs can be less
frequent than a cool-season turfgrass
mowing regime, they can be more
complex and occasionally more time-
consuming as weeding, trimming,
mulching and replacing materials are
important to keep the plantings healthy
and attractive.
Mulched planting bed in the parkway limits
water use and can provide visual interest.
4.3.1 Where Appropriate.
Alternatives to irrigated turfgrass can
be an appropriate choice for property
owners abutting collector and local
streets, depending on whether the
parkway is governed by an approved
Development Plan. Alternatives can
also be appropriate for arterial street
projects in special plan areas that have
recommended alternatives.
4.3.2 Requirements.
Section 5 includes parkway landscaping
requirements for Arterial Streets.
Section 6 includes parkway landscaping
requirements for Collector and Local
Streets.
P a g e | 14 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
4.4
SIGHT DISTANCE TRIANGLES AT
INTERSECTIONS
Sight distance generally refers to the
line of sight from a driver at an
unsignalized intersection to
approaching vehicles that the driver
needs to see in order to safely enter
traffic.
4.4.1 Requirements.
A visual sight distance triangle, free of
any structures or landscape elements
shall be maintained at street
intersections and driveways, as
required in Figure 7-16 in the Larimer
County Urban Area Street Standards.
Deciduous trees may be permitted to
encroach into the clearance triangle
provided that the lowest leaves shall be
at least six (6) feet from grade and are
spaced so that they do not obstruct line
of sight.
Site Distance Triangle concept.
Distance 1
Distance 2 (Depends on Speed)
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 15
4.5
LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT –
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
In a “Low Impact Development” (LID)
approach to streetscapes, landscaped
parkways and medians are depressed
rather than raised, to help manage
stormwater runoff closer to the source.
Depressed landscape areas are
designed with special soil mixes,
corresponding plantings, and other
design techniques to infiltrate and
filter runoff, instead of concentrating
and conveying all runoff to centralized
detention and treatment facilities.
The City’s Stormwater Criteria Manual,
which governs the management of
stormwater in the city, describes
design, plant selection, and
maintenance techniques applicable to
streetscapes.
4.5.1 LID encouraged.
LID techniques and technologies are
encouraged whenever the drainage
patterns and the infrastructure allows
for such measures to be used.
4.5.2 Low Impact Development
streetscape projects.
In any streetscape where a Low Impact
Development approach is used,
Streetscape Standards shall be adapted
or modified as needed per the
Stormwater Criteria Manual.
Illustration of LID concepts in a parkway.
P a g e | 16 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Illustration of LID concepts in a parkway.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 17
Illustration of LID median concept with street runoff directed to a depressed median with a flush band
instead of curb and gutter.
Illustration of LID median concept with street runoff directed to a depressed median with special curb and
gutter inlets.
P a g e | 18 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 19
SECTION 5
Arterial Streets
The city’s arterial streets are complex
and expensive public infrastructure,
combining virtually all utility and
transportation systems of the city.
Besides the functional needs for traffic
and utilities, a pervasive theme
throughout the City’s Comprehensive
Plan is the importance of streets as
public space. As high-visibility public
space, arterials create first
impressions, are experienced by all
residents on a daily basis, and play a
large role in determining the character
and conveying the civic intention of the
City of Fort Collins.
Arterial streetscapes vary widely, from
the Downtown core, to suburban
residential areas, to the Natural Areas
in the Poudre River valley.
Downtown core.
Suburban residential area.
Poudre River valley.
Some arterials are distinguished by the
inclusion of medians along street
corridors and in roundabouts. Besides
managing traffic, medians provide very
high-visibility space for landscaping,
and provide a refuge for pedestrians
crossing the road. Medians can
humanize the scale of a wide street,
and add beauty and civic identity.
They are a highly visible mainstay of
urban design, and thus are a major
aspect of the City’s streetscape efforts.
Medians in a roundabout.
P a g e | 20 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.1
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPES MAP
The Arterial Streetscapes Map
recognizes differences between various
arterials throughout the city. It
indicates where a “Standard Arterial
Streetscape” approach should apply,
and where other corridor segments and
gateway intersections warrant their
own tailored approach to streetscape
design and management.
The map works in conjunction with
design standards in the following
chapters to guide investment in
streetscapes throughout the city.
The types of Arterial Streetscapes
and Gateways are:
Standard Arterial Streetscapes.
Enhanced Travel Corridors.
Special Planning Areas.
Streetscapes constrained by
Existing Development.
Gateway Intersections.
Community Entrance Gateways
(at Interstate 25).
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 21
12.10.2012
P a g e | 22 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.2
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
STANDARD ARTERIAL
STREETSCAPES - MEDIANS
The primary focus of “Standard Arterial
Streetscapes” is on medians, including
the medians in roundabouts.
Median standards emphasize mixed
plantings of perennials, grasses, shrubs,
and tree groupings, with a mulched
ground surface. The intent of these
standards is to reflect Fort Collins’
western regional character with
regionally-specific plants suited to the
harsh roadway environment.
Planting compositions must include:
Varied plant forms, textures, and
foliage in addition to flowers.
Coordinated, repeating groupings of
plants to form an overall pattern.
Accent groupings to add detail and
variation within the overall pattern.
Related elements such as mulches
and boulders.
Illustration of standard arterial median landscaping approach.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 23
5.2.1 Median width measurements.
All references to median widths are
from face of curb to face of curb.
5.2.2 Median grading.
The ground surface in landscaped
medians shall be crowned with a high
point in the center, with slopes not to
exceed 7:1 or approximately 14
percent. This standard shall not apply
where a median has a cross slope due
to opposing traffic lanes and curbs
having different elevations, such that a
crown may not be feasible.
5.2.3 Median grading in
roundabouts.
The ground surface in center medians
in roundabouts shall be crowned with
slopes not to exceed 7:1 or
approximately 14 percent. The intent
of this standard is to increase the visual
prominence of landscaping, and work in
conjunction with planting and
hardscape elements to achieve year-
round screening of visibility across the
roundabout to a height of at least 4
feet.
5.2.4 Median planting general
approach.
Tree groupings and mixed plantings of
other plant types shall be established
and maintained in medians.
This standard shall not apply in the
following situations:
• Trees shall not be planted in
medians less than seven feet
wide.
• Medians less than three feet
wide shall be paved rather than
planted.
P a g e | 24 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.2.5 Median tree groupings:
Canopy shade trees, ornamental
trees, and evergreen trees shall be
planted in groups of three, five, or
more to the extent reasonably
feasible. Open intervals shall be
provided between the groups.
Open intervals between tree groups
shall constitute 30-60% of the length
of a given median. These
percentages are intended to convey
a general proportion rather than a
precisely measured formula.
Determination of the open intervals
shall be based on the design intent
and growth assumptions for trees
over a given time frame.
Where median length allows,
repetition of tree groupings is
encouraged.
5.2.6 Tree separation from median
edges.
Separation of trees from concrete
edges shall be provided by designers as
needed based on assumptions for
growth and pruning over a given time
frame. The following minimum
separations shall be provided for tree
types as listed in Exhibit List of
Recommended Plants:
Large canopy trees – 2.5 feet.
Ornamental trees – 1.5 feet.
Large evergreen trees – 7 feet.
Small evergreen trees – 5 feet.
5.2.7 Evergreen tree
setbacks from face of
curbs.
Evergreen trees shall be set
back from the face of curbs:
Large evergreen trees – 9
feet.
Small evergreen trees – 7
feet.
5.2.8 Staggered median
tree groupings if space
permits.
Tree groupings shall be
staggered rather than aligned
in straight rows, where
median width permits a
stagger of at least 2 feet.
Example plan view of a median
showing tree groupings.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 25
5.2.9 Mixed plantings.
Mixed plantings of perennials,
ornamental grasses, shrubs, and
shrubby trees shall be planted and
maintained to cover at least 75% of the
median area within 5 years, based on
assumptions for growth and
maintenance of plants by the designer.
Mixed plantings shall be composed
of groups of at least 3 plants per
group, with each group composed of
a single species.
Mixed plantings shall be composed
for understory conditions at tree
groupings, and open conditions in
intervals between tree groupings.
Mixed planting in a newly planted median.
Mixed plantings shall be arranged in
an informal pattern rather than
formal rows or geometrically-shaped
groupings. The informal pattern
shall include coordinated, repeating
groupings of plants in an overall
composition, rather than random
placement. Plantings shall be
designed and maintained to span
the full width of the median at
maturity.
Mixed planting standards apply to
all medians 3 feet wide or wider.
P a g e | 26 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
This – informal
pattern, but with
repeated groupings to
create an overall
order in the design
pattern.
Not This – formal,
geometric pattern of
massed plantings. While
this kind of design
pattern is not the
“Standard Arterial
Streetscape” approach, it
may be appropriate for
special planning areas.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 27
5.2.10 Mixed plantings – two options
for intensity.
Two options for mixed plantings shall
be permitted:
Perennial Garden Style.
Shrub Garden Style.
Perennial Garden Style: This option
emphasizes the maximum degree of
planting intensity, color, and variety,
with perennials used for the full length
of a median. This results in a higher
number of different plant groupings
and a higher total number of plants to
achieve the required 75% plant
coverage.
Shrub Garden Style: This option allows
the use of larger shrubs and shrubby
trees to achieve the required 75%
coverage with a lower number of
different plant groupings and lower
total number of plants.
5.2.11 Perennial Garden Style
requirements.
An average of at least 4 groupings of
perennial or ornamental grasses, and 3
groupings of shrubs per 250 square feet
shall be planted and maintained.
Groupings shall be composed of single
species with at least 3 plants.
Illustration of Perennial Variety Style mixed planting, with open areas and tree groupings.
P a g e | 28 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.2.12 Shrub Garden Style
requirements.
An average of at least 3 groupings of
shrubs per 250 square feet shall be
planted and maintained. Groupings
shall be composed of single species
with at least 3 plants.
In open areas at the ends of medians at
intersections, at least 4 perennial or
ornamental grass groupings and 3 shrub
groupings shall be planted and
maintained, with emphasis on color
and/or texture over a long growing
season.
Example of a mixed shrub planting with regionally
adapted species (not a streetscape).
5.2.13 Decision on options.
The option to be used in any project
shall be approved by the Director based
on consideration of the relative
importance of a given median to
community image, intensity of adjacent
land uses, the width and length of the
median, and City budget
considerations. In general, the
Perennial Garden Style is more
appropriate in higher-activity, mixed-
use areas. The Shrub Garden Style is
generally more appropriate in
residential and other lower-activity
areas.
Plan view
illustrations
comparing
perennial variety
concept
(on the left)
and shrub
variety concept
(on the right) .
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 29
5.2.14 Median noses and narrow
ribbons - planting.
Median areas 3-7 feet wide shall be
planted with low mixed planting under
30 inches in height.
5.2.15 Plants and mulches in
conjunction.
Plant groupings shall be designed in
association with either cobble mulch or
organic mulch. Plants selected to
feature green leaves and flowers are
generally complemented by organic
mulch, while stone mulch can detract
from their effects. Stone mulch can
complement evergreens, other plants
selected to feature distinct forms or
textures, and xeric plants with grey-
green foliage.
When mulches are mixed, the patterns
shall be in sweeping curves, and not
rectangular blocks or strips along the
edge.
5.2.16 Mulches.
Organic mulch shall be used, either
solely or in combination with stone
mulch to add visual interest with a
design pattern. Organic mulch shall be
undyed shredded woody material. If a
combination is used, the pattern shall
be designed in conjunction with plant
groupings, and the pattern shall span
the full width of the median rather
than dividing the median lengthwise
into linear strips or lining the edge of
the median.
This - mulch pattern spans the median in a sweeping
curve.
Not this – mulch pattern in linear strips.
This – mulch pattern in sweeping curves designed
with the direction of travel in mind.
Not this – mulch pattern in linear strips.
Not this – mulch pattern in blocks.
Stone mulch, if used, shall consist of 2-
4-inch stone combined with groupings
of 4-12 inch or larger stone hand placed
as accents for visual interest and to
separate abutting organic and stone
mulches. Larger stone shall be placed
P a g e | 30 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
first, to be embedded, mingled, and
settled with the smaller stone rather
than loosely dumped.
Stone mulch placement example.
5.2.17 Boulders.
Boulders may be used to structure and
complement plant groupings. They
shall be designed and placed in
deliberate groupings in association with
the planting and mulch design pattern,
and any low walls or slopes. They shall
be placed prior to planting and
mulching, and slightly sunk into the
ground, to be embedded and mingled
with mulches and plantings. Permitted
boulders shall be tan Masonville
sandstone quarry blocks, rounded river
boulders, or weathered moss rock
boulders.
Boulder selection shall be based on
continuing an established theme, or
establishing a theme where none
exists.
Tan Masonville sandstone quarry blocks.
Rounded river boulders as part of a whole design
approach to plantings and mulches.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 31
5.2.18 Median hardscape – edges
and paving.
Hardscape treatments depend on
different median widths and different
contexts throughout the city, and shall
comply with the following
requirements:
A. In median areas that are at least 7
feet wide, a double curb edge shall
be installed where a project
includes 1) a new median, or 2) an
existing median that lacks splash
blocks or has splash blocks that
warrant replacement. The purpose
of this standard is to provide
additional depth for planting areas,
space for maintenance personnel,
an additional correction barrier for
vehicles leaving the roadway, and a
visual design that complements the
curb and gutter. Where a median
tapers to less than 7 feet, the
upper curb shall return across the
median to enclose the upper
landscape area.
Double curb design.
Illustration of double curb.
The following exceptions to the double
curb shall apply:
1) Sloped concrete splash blocks with
integral tan tint and exposed
aggregate finish shall be permitted
in lieu of a double curb if a median
project is located in a street
segment or area of the city where
existing splash blocks have a
previously established theme and
are expected to remain for a long
term.
Sloped splash block design.
6”
6”
6”
12”
Tan-tinted
concrete
Standard curb
and gutter
6”
6”
18”
6”
8”
P a g e | 32 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Sloped splash block design: existing Standard
Arterial Streetscape corridors throughout the city
include extensive segments with existing sloped
concrete splash blocks, per a former standard.
2) Where a median is less than 7
feet wide, the edge shall be a
standard 6-inch curb with no
double curb or splash block.
B. Median areas under 3 feet wide
shall be paved rather than planted.
Paving shall be rectangular
concrete or brick pavers set on a
concrete base.
The following exception to pavers shall
apply: where existing tan exposed-
aggregate concrete median paving
establishes a prevailing theme, it shall
be permitted for paving of medians
under 3 feet wide.
Tan exposed-aggregate concrete median paving.
Rectangular pavers set in a herringbone pattern.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 33
Narrow median area 3-7 feet
wide – mixed planting, no trees,
standard curb.
Median area 7 feet or wider –
mixed planting and ornamental trees to
provide a sense of pedestrian scale. Double
curb continues to crosswalk.
Narrow median area under 3 feet
wide – pavers, standard curb.
P a g e | 34 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.2.19 Roundabout
planting and
hardscape:
Roundabout medians
in Standard Arterial
Streetscape areas shall
be developed and
maintained with tree
groupings and mixed
plantings in the
Perennial Variety
Style, with boulders
and a mulched ground
surface. Landscape
walls may be included
to reinforce the
pattern and provide
year-round structure
for plantings.
Apron paving and any
special curbs shall be
designed for visual
interest with tinted,
textured concrete,
pavers, or similar
material.
Design of each
individual roundabout
shall be unique unless
multiple roundabouts
are related in a pair or
group as part of a
single traffic
management project.
Design elements
include planting
themes, plant species,
apron paving, and
other hardscape
details.
Plan view of
roundabout components.
Mixed planting, trees,
mulches, boulders,
and landscape walls
in a coordinated
pattern
Specialty apron
paving in a
coordinated
pattern
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 35
Illustrations of roundabout landscaping approach with mixed planting, boulders, mulch and hardscape patterns all designed
in conjunction. Lower graphic shows the inclusion of landscape walls.
P a g e | 36 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.3
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
STANDARD ARTERIAL
STREETSCAPES - PARKWAYS
The City maintains most arterial street
parkways, with exceptions in a limited
number of situations where other
arrangements are made with another
entity. Turfgrass provides a range of
benefits as a solution to arterial street
parkways as described in Section 4.
The benefits describe are relevant for
all street classifications, but are
particularly relevant for arterials which
form a continuous city-wide framework
of public space.
5.3.1 Irrigated Turfgrass.
Parkways in Standard Arterial
Streetscapes shall consist of irrigated
turfgrass and street tree plantings as
described in Chapter 4. Appropriate
irrigation shall be provided to maintain
health of plantings with efficient use of
water.
Arterial street parkway.
5.4
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
ENHANCED TRAVEL CORRIDORS
(ETC’S)
Standard Arterial Streetscape standards
may or may not be adequate and
appropriate for design and
maintenance of these corridors,
depending on unique circumstances in
each ETC.
These arterial corridors are intended to
evolve as a framework that
incorporates and supports high
frequency transit with special emphasis
on walkability and bicycling.
5.4.1 Tailored streetscape approach.
For streetscape projects where
previous ETC plans do not define a
streetscape approach, the Standard
Arterial Streetscape standards in
Section 5.2 shall be considered as the
minimum requirement for the level of
quality and investment.
Design and maintenance shall then be
adapted to unique circumstances in
each corridor as appropriate, based on
study of and response to:
1. Guiding policies for ETC’s.
2. Established precedents in the
corridor that are consistent with the
vision and policies for ETC’s.
Examples of permissible design
variations include:
3. Planting patterns to reinforce the
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 37
4. Hardscape elements – edge
treatments, paving, planters, and
the like, particularly where related
to transit stops and shelters.
5. Urban design amenities in a
coordinated program, particularly
including paving, furnishings, and
structures at transit stops and
shelters.
In all cases, design shall include
repeating elements to create a theme
for the corridor and avoid clutter of
unrelated elements.
5.5
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
OTHER SPECIAL PLANNING
AREAS
Special planning areas have subarea
plans, corridor plans, or other planning
documents that recognize their unique
context and character. The level of
specific direction for streetscapes
varies among the plans.
These areas warrant their own
distinctive streetscapes with tailored
design and maintenance
characteristics, rather than the
Standard Arterial Streetcape.
5.5.1 Tailored streetscape approach.
For streetscape projects where plan
documents are not definitive, the
Standard Arterial Streetscape standards
in Section 5.2 shall be considered as
the minimum requirement for the level
of quality and investment, and may be
considered as a reference for design.
Design and maintenance shall then be
adapted by project designers and staff
based on study of and response to the
context and any established precedents
that are consistent with the vision and
policies for the area, and are thus
expected to remain.
Examples of permissible design
variations on the Standard Arterial
Streetscape include:
6. Distinct patterns of trees and other
plant groupings.
7. Signature plant species.
8. Hardscape elements – edge
treatments, paving, low planter
walls or landscape walls, and the
like.
9. Urban design amenities such as
paving, street furnishings, and
transit stop shelters or other
themed structures in a coordinated
program.
In all cases, design shall include
P a g e | 38 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
5.6
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
CONSTRAINED CORRIDORS AND
SEGMENTS
These are arterial corridors and
segments where the Standard Arterial
Streetscape is not feasible due to
physical constraints of existing
development. Typically, both parkways
and medians are constrained.
Example of a constrained arterial (East Prospect).
5.6.1 Tailored streetscape approach.
Streetscape projects in these areas
shall incorporate aspects of a Standard
Arterial Streetscape to the extent
reasonably feasible. The allocation of
available space and the compromises
on each component of the street shall
be determined on a project-by-project
basis.
The most important aspects to consider
in the streetscape approach are safe
sidewalks and street trees as described
in Chapter 4.
5.7
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
GATEWAY INTERSECTIONS
These intersections are exceptional
locations where the Standard Arterial
Streetscape should be augmented with
additional intensity of streetscape
development in any capital projects.
These locations warrant the highest
level of investment for design,
construction and maintenance.
The intent is to highlight entryways
into the city, and also edges of districts
within the city. The locations consist
of intersections, whether signalized or
roundabouts, extending outward as
appropriate to include medians
associated with the intersection.
5.7.2 Components.
Streetscape projects at gateway
intersections shall be enhanced with a
coordinated program of components
including at least four of the following:
• Plantings of annual flowers in
beds or large pots.
• Railings or low walls.
• Bollards.
• Pedestrian lighting/ other
specialty lighting.
• Columns, pylons or other urban
design structures.
• Signal or light pole treatments.
• Color themes in repeated
components.
• Special paving.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 39
• Sculpture or other public art in
addition to the components
listed above.
Examples of enhanced gateway
components – annual flowers,
planter pots on plinths, railings,
pedestrian lights, public art pylons,
and tinted concrete paving.
Example of a median approaching a gateway intersection incorporating themed railings mingled with plant groupings.
P a g e | 40 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Illustrations of themed plantings, walls, median
planters, and specialty paving as exampes of
special treatments to mark an enhanced
gateway signalized intersection (above) and
gateway roundabout (below).
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 41
5.8
ARTERIAL STREETSCAPE DESIGN:
COMMUNITY ENTRANCE
GATEWAYS (I-25)
Interstate 25 interchanges act as major
community entrances, in conjunction
with the arterial streets leading into
Fort Collins from the interchanges.
Future improvements to the
interchanges are expected to include
gateway design features to reinforce
the community entrance role.
Design and management of any such
interchange improvements, and
and arterial streetscapes near the
interchanges, may present opportunities
for coordination.
For example, any interchange gateway
features may be appropriate to extend
westward along a segment of the
arterial streetscape. If such features
are not appropriate to be extended,
they may still influence, or be
influenced by, the character of the
arterial streetscape.
Example of enhanced gateway components at an I-25
Interchange, including stone walls and a themed planting design.
P a g e | 42 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 43
SECTION 6
Collector and
Local Streets
6.1
PARKWAY LANDSCAPING
Streetscapes on collector and local
streets typically consist of parkways
only. The primary intent for parkway
landscaping is to provide a setting for
street trees, and work in conjunction
with street trees for a number of
purposes:
Define streets as the framework of
public space within which individual
properties fit.
Contribute to the attractiveness and
visual interest of the street edge.
Mark the transition from public to
private space.
Blend public interests in street
infrastructure with interests of
abutting property owners who are
required to maintain these parkways
by City Code.
6.1.1 Two approaches.
Two main approaches to landscaping
parkways areshall be permitted in
collector and local streets: turf-type
grasses, and mulched planting beds.
The pPros and cons of each are
discussed in Section 4.
In both approaches, appropriate
irrigation shall be provided to maintain
health of plantings with efficient use of
water.
6.1.2 New development landscape
plans.
Where a developer desires to offer non-
turf grass options to homeowners, the
landscape plan shall contain notes and
drawings specifying options for non-turf
ground cover plantings, with consistent
mulch and a recommended plant
palette.
6.1.3 Approved development plans
govern.
For developments with approved
landscape plans, the parkway
landscaping must be in accordance with
the plan.
A Homeowners Association (HOA), or a
property owner with approval from the
HOA, may request a Minor Amendment
to an approved plan for parkway
landscaping.
6.1.4 Turf-type grass.
Turf-type grass shall be permitted,
including both cool-season turfgrasses
and warm-season native shortgrasses as
P a g e | 44 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
6.1.5 Mulched planting beds.
Non-turf ground cover plantings shall be
permitted, including mulched planting
beds and ground cover plantings. With
an understanding of plant selection and
proper irrigation and maintenance,
these plantings can provide seasonal
interest with little water required.
Property owners are encouraged to
incorporate choices that provide a
degree of congruence with neighboring
properties in terms of mulches and
character of plantings.
6.1.6 Requirements for non-turf
ground cover plantings:
A. Landscaping shall be designed,
installed and maintained so that at
least 50% of the area shall be
covered with live plant material
within 3 years from installation.
B. Plant materials shall be under 2 feet
tall if within 5 feet of a driveway
and under 3 feet tall in other areas.
Owners are encouraged to select
plants that maintain these height
limits with little or no pruning.
Combination of turf and planting beds in
parkway areas.
Mulched planting bed with a perennial garden
in a parkway.
Cool-season turfgrass parkway
congruent among properties along the
street, and also congruent with
adjoining landscaping.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 45
C. Plant materials must not obscure
the line of sight for traffic or
obstruct the sidewalk. Plantings of
any height that obstruct the line of
sight or cause safety concerns may
be required to be kept trimmed to a
lower height or removed so visibility
is provided/maintained.
D. No fences or thorny/prickly plant
material are allowed.
E. In mulched planting beds, the soil
surface shall be 2-3 inches below
the curb and sidewalk to allow for
mulch to be contained. To avoid
clutter, no additional timbers,
concrete products, plastic or metal
edging, or similar material shall be
included.
F. Exception: if edging is needed to
keep turfgrass out of mulched
areas, perpendicular to the street,
such edging shall be flush or within
1 inch of the ground surface, so it is
not a visible element.
G. Plant materials and mulch must be
kept off the street and sidewalk.
H. Avoid cutting tree roots if
converting an established turf
parkway to a planting bed. Within a
tree’s dripline, minimize grade
change to protect the tree roots.
This – organic mulch, healthy plants, and stepping
stones if needed.
Not this – gravel that is not congruent with any other
portions of the streetscape, dead plants, weeds, concrete
products, and exposed fabric prevent this parkway from
contributing to the street as attractive public space.
.
P a g e | 46 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 47
SECTION 7
Maintenance
Standards
The purpose of this Section is to foster a
consistent, high quality appearance for
all streetscapes, whether maintained by
the City, its agents, or by private
developers, businesses, or individuals.
Given the high visibility of city
streetscapes, the public is able to
observe maintenance practices in the
field as well as the results of that
maintenance. The public perception of
a well-maintained landscape is
promoted by practices which benefit
the health of the landscape materials
and achieve a neat, well-cared for
appearance. Quality maintenance is a
function of workmanship, funding,
knowledge, and technique. These
standards attempt to ensure that all
streetscapes are cared for in a manner
which reflects the high esteem that
citizens have for these important public
spaces. Generally, all landscaping shall
be maintained in a healthy condition
throughout the growing season. A neat
and attractive appearance is essential.
Irrigation systems, structures, and
sidewalks shall be maintained to
represent the original integrity of the
design and installation.
7.1
TREE MAINTENANCE AND
MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS
7.1.1 Separate standards document.
A separate document, The City of Fort
Collins Tree Management Standards and
Best Management Practices, contains
the City’s standards for planting and
maintenance for all trees in the public
rights-of-way and apply whether the
work is performed for the City
contractually, by the City, or by private
entities or individuals. Exceptions to the
standards and practices require written
approval of the City Forester.
7.1.2 Permits for tree work.
A permit must be obtained from the
City Forester before any planting,
pruning, removal, or destruction of any
tree or shrub within the public right-of-
way of any street or sidewalk.
Businesses performing this work must be
licensed by the City. No tree shall be
cut back in such a manner that its health
will be impaired or it creates an unsafe
condition. An exception to this rule may
occur to provide emergency relief of an
P a g e | 48 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
manage, maintain, and replace on
all streets, regardless of who
maintains the surface.
B. Exception: some streetscape
projects include a warranty period
for establishment of newly planted
trees in which the project is
responsible.
C. Medians in arterial streets shall be
maintained by the City.
Exception: some streetscape
projects include a warranty period
for establishment of median
landscaping in which the project
is responsible.
D. Parkway landscaping on Collector
and Local streets shall be
maintained by the adjacent property
owner in accordance with City Code.
E. Parkway landscaping on arterial
streets shall be the responsibility of
the City if there is no individual,
organization, or homeowners’
association that prefers to maintain
them, or that can be fairly allocated
the maintenance responsibility
based on their unique benefit .
F. The following four other different
scenarios for planting and
continuing maintenance are possible
depending on circumstances:
1) The developer installs the landscape
and the City takes responsibility for
tree maintenance after a warranty
period for full tree establishment
during which time specific
obligations are met. The surface
(turfgrass, other plantings, mulches,
irrigation) must continue to be
maintained by the developer,
homeowners’ association, or other
responsible party.
2) The developer installs the landscape
and after meeting obligations during
the first two years, the City takes
responsibility for both tree and
surface maintenance.
3) The landscape is part of a Capital
Improvements Project and a
contractor does the landscape work.
The City is responsible for tree
maintenance and may or may not be
responsible for surface
maintenance.
4) Adopt A Median -- the City
encourages homeowners’
associations, business groups, and
other civic groups to take part in
the Adopt-A-Median program.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 49
the project that installed the
streetscape.
7.4
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
STANDARDS
7.4.1 Trash.
Trash shall be removed on a regular
basis.
7.4.2 Turf-type grass.
Cool-season turfgrasses shall be
maintained at a 3-inch cut during the
growing season. Trimming shall be
concurrent with mowing, to match
height of open turf, around mowing
obstructions such as trees, curbs, and
vacuum breakers. Turfgrass shall be
edged concurrent with mowing when
needed to prevent growth over edges.
Visible clippings shall be removed from
sidewalks and streets.
Buffalograss and Blue grama shall be
maintained at a maximum height of 12
inches.
7.4.3 Shrubs.
Shrubs shall be pruned as needed to: 1)
achieve the design intent; 2) remove
dead or diseased branches; and 3)
support plant health and vigor. Dead
shrubs shall be removed and replaced
immediately. Shrubs shall not extend
over the curb or sidewalk.
7.4.4 Perennials.
Perennials shall be deadheaded and
trimmed throughout the growing season
as appropriate for the design intent for
each species. Depending upon design
intent, perennials and ornamental
grasses shall be cut back in late fall or
early spring prior to new growth. Dead
perennials shall be removed
immediately and replaced per the
design intent.
7.4.5 Annuals.
Planting of annuals in the spring shall be
in designated annual flower beds.
Annuals shall be regularly deadheaded
of spent blooms. Annuals shall be
removed in the fall after the first hard
freeze.
7.4.6 Mulch.
Mulch shall be replenished as needed to
maintain complete coverage of the soil
surface with a depth of 2-4 inches, with
careful placement and reduced depth as
needed underneath plants to avoid
burying leaves or tender stems.
7.4.7 Weeds.
All landscaped areas shall be kept free
of weeds and invasive grasses that are
P a g e | 50 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 51
SECTION 8
Irrigation
Standards
Proper watering systems help achieve
City goals and citizen expectations for
public spaces. Irrigation of parkway
and median plant material is necessary
to maintain a quality appearance and
long term health of streetscape
plantings.
It is the City’s intent to be a good
steward of water resources consistent
with “xeriscape” and “water-wise”
principles related to social,
environmental, and economic
sustainability.
All irrigation systems will be designed
to meet the needs of each unique
landscape by following best
management practices and up-to-date
technology. Without proper irrigation
design and maintenance, good
stewardship of the landscapes is not
achievable.
8.1
IRRIGATION SYSTEM DESIGN
8.1.1 General design standards.
Irrigation design and installation shall
comply with the following general
standards:
A. Irrigation design shall be done by a
certified irrigation designer unless
otherwise approved by the Parks
Department.
B. Irrigation system design and
installation shall be monitored,
inspected, and approved by the
City Parks Division. Irrigation
systems shall be installed and
maintained so that irrigation
equipment will not spray onto any
streets, walkways, or features and
structures that could be damaged
by water.
C. The irrigation system must comply
with the International Plumbing
Code and with the City of Fort
Collins Electrical Code.
D. Any deviation in taps from the
approved construction plans must
be approved by City of Fort Collins
Utilities prior to installation. Any
water service line shall be
coordinated with City of Fort
Collins Utilities.
E. Any deviation in layout of the
irrigation system from the approved
construction plans must be
reviewed and approved by the City
P a g e | 52 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
I. All designs shall meet the industry’s
Best Management Practices from
the Irrigation Association and ALCC
(Associate Landscape Contractors
of Colorado).
J. Newly installed irrigation systems
shall be subject to water audits.
K. The minimum distribution
uniformity for spray heads shall be
.55; for rotor heads it shall be .65;
for stream rotors it shall be .75;
and for impact heads it shall be
.65.
L. Design considerations shall include:
1) shrub and perennial beds are to
be zoned separately from turf
areas; 2) sloped areas will have
separate zoning for heads at the
higher elevations from those at the
lower elevation; 3) areas with
different exposures are to be zoned
separately; and 4) In-head check
valves are to be used for all areas
adjacent to walkways and at the
bottom of berms and pond areas.
M. Xeric irrigation and drip systems
come in a wide variety of
configurations. The correct
application shall be approved for
each landscape design by the City
Parks Department.
N. Trees planted in non-turf irrigated
landscape areas require short-term
and long-term irrigation and should
be on individual or separate zones.
Supplemental emitters shall be
installed on top and around the
root ball for short term health.
Perimeter irrigation of the root ball
shall be installed for long term and
permanent irrigation.
O. The contractor shall install the
saddle for the PVC or AC pipe.
P. The backflow prevention device and
water meter shall meet the City of
Fort Collins standards, and the flow
meter shall be Data Industrial.
Q. A curb stop shall be installed
between the meter pit and the
backflow prevention device for
isolation purposes. The curb stop
shall be sleeved from the valve to
grade and covered with a round
valve box.
R. A blowout tube no larger than ¼”
shall be placed between the meter
pit-curb stop and the back flow
prevention device. The injection
port on the blow out tube shall be
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 53
D. No laterals shall be smaller than
1-inch pipe.
E. Trickle tubing shall be weather and
UV resistant material.
F. Polyethylene drip pipe shall be NSF
approved, SDR pressure-rated pipe,
only as approved for drip
applications.
G. Funny pipe shall be used only for
pop-up spray heads, and shall be
compatible with the elbows needed
for the sprinkler heads.
H. Lateral fittings shall be Schedule
40, Type 1, PVC solvent-weld, with
ASTM Standards D2466 and D1784.
I. Copper or cast bronze fittings,
soldered or threaded per
installation details shall be used for
all copper pipe.
J. Mainline fittings shall be ductile
iron for 3-inch and larger pipe; and
shall be PVC Schedule 80 for
smaller pipe.
K. Sleeving shall be ductile iron or
PVC pipe under all paved surfaces.
Sizes shall be a minimum of two
sizes larger than the pipe being
sleeved, but shall in no case be
smaller than 2-inch diameter pipe.
8.2.2 Valves:
A. Remote control zone valves shall be
electrically operated, appropriate
for the water supply, with manual
bleed device and flow control
stem. Valves shall have a slow-
opening and slow-closing action for
protection against surge pressure.
Brand and model shall be Rainbird
PE Series Remote Control Valves,
scrubber option with self cleaning
screen unless City specifies other
brand and model.
B. Valves used for two-wire system
shall be properly grounded per
manufacturers recommendation.
C. Drip valves, bubbler valves, and
micro-spray valves shall be
accompanied by pressure-reducing
devices matched with
recommended filters to assure
proper operation and reduced
failure of such equipment.
D. Isolation gate valves shall be
Kennedy 1571X or Matco #100M,
able to withstand a continuous
operating pressure of 150 psi.
Clear waterway shall be equal to
full diameter of pipe. Shall be
opened by turning square nut to
P a g e | 54 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Box sizes shall be as specified to
house one valve per box.
8.2.3 Control System:
A. Controllers shall have smart
controller technology and shall be
approved by the Parks Department.
The number of stations shall
include two extra stations for
possible future use. The controller
box shall be weather tight and
vandal resistant with locking
exterior disconnect. One Eicon
pigtail or compatible remote
controller pigtail shall be used for
each 12 stations.
B. The Control System Enclosure shall
be Hofman Model A242408LP with
A24P24 steel panel, Model A-FK1208
floor stand kit and AL-2BR lock kit,
or approved equal.
C. The surge protection shall be an 8-
foot copper grounding rod, #4 solid
copper wire, grounding buss
receptacle, ground terminal strip
and Irritrol SPD-587 surge protector
per manufacturer’s specifications
and details.
D. The master valve shall be normally
opened.
E. Control wiring shall be #14 solid
copper direct burial UF or PE cable,
UL approved, or larger, per system
design and manufacturer's
recommendations.
F. Five-wire systems shall have a
consistent color scheme
throughout: Red = live; White =
ground; Black, Blue and Green =
extra.
G. If two-wire systems are used,
approved shielded wire or
manufacturers recommended wire
shall be used.
H. Approved wire connectors and
water-proofing sealant shall be
used to join control wires to zone
valve wires. The wire connectors
shall be what each specific
manufacturer recommends. Two-
wire systems shall use
manufacturers specified wire per
warranty provisions.
8.2.4 Sprinkler heads.
All sprinkler heads shall be of the same
manufacturer as specified on the plans,
marked with the manufacturer's name
and model in such a way that materials
can be identified without removal from
the system. The City will specify
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 55
8.3
INSTALLATION PREPARATION
8.3.1 Utility locates.
Locate all utilities prior to trenching and
protect from damage. Required calls
shall include, but are not limited to the
following: City Parks Division, 221-
6660, for locates and 1-800-922-1987
for utility locates within the City of
Fort Collins. Contact other utilities as
required.
8.3.2 Preliminary inspection.
The Contractor shall inspect tap and any
existing irrigation system, as applicable,
prior to work.
8.4
INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
8.4.1 Water service connections
(taps):
A. Forty-eight hours prior to
connection, the contractor shall
contact the City of Fort Collins
Water Utilities, at 221-6700 to
schedule the work for water taps
and inspections. A minimum two
weeks prior notice shall be given to
the Water Meter Shop, 221-6759, for
installations which will require
meters and/or backflow devices
larger than 2 inches.
B. The contractor shall be responsible
for excavation, connection to
corporation stop at the water main,
providing and installing the saddle
for the PVC or A.C. pipe, making
the connection to the existing
water service, backfill and
compaction, and pavement /
shoulder / surface treatment
replacement as needed. Soldered
joints or fittings are permissible
above grade or inside a vault. No
solder, sealants, fluxes, pipe dope,
and other materials shall contain
any lead. All taps and installations
are subject to approval and
inspection by the City of Fort
Collins Water Utilities. Install
meter as specified in a precast
vault. Inspection of service line
(where appropriate), vault, water
meter and backflow is to be
coordinated with the City of Fort
Collins Utilities.
C. The contractor shall install a
winterization assembly downstream
of the meter vault a minimum of 6
feet away from the outside of the
meter vault on the copper pipe.
P a g e | 56 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
C. Trench depths for mainlines shall
be a minimum of 24 inches deep
from top of pipe to finished grade.
D. Trench depths for laterals shall be
a minimum of 16 inches deep from
top of pipe to finished grade.
8.4.3 Sleeving:
A. Wires shall be in separate sleeves
from pipe, and shall be 2-inch
minimum size pipe.
B. Sleeves shall have traceable marker
tape on upper side and both ends
for future locates.
C. Sleeves shall be installed at a depth
which permits the encased pipe or
wiring to remain at the specified
burial depth.
D. Boring for sleeving shall not be
permitted unless an obstruction in
a pipe path cannot be moved, or
pipe cannot be re-routed.
E. Any mainline installed in existing
sleeves at a greater depth than
adjacent pipe shall have a manual
drain valve at each end if the
sleeve is longer than 20 feet, or at
one end if the sleeve is less than 20
feet.
F. Sleeves shall be installed so ends
extend past edge of curb, gutter,
sidewalk, bikepath or other
obstruction, a minimum of 2 feet.
G. Sleeves shall be marked with an
“x” chiseled in walk (or other
surface) directly over the sleeve
location.
H. Sleeves shall be laid to drain at
minimum grade of 5 inches per 100
feet.
I. Sleeves shall be bedded in 2 inches
of fill sand and covered by 6 inches
of fill sand.
J. Sleeves installed for future use
shall be capped at both ends.
K. Sleeving shall not have joints unless
necessary due to length of sleeving
run. If joints are necessary, only
solvent welded joints are allowed.
L. Compaction of backfill for sleeves
shall be 95% of Standard Proctor
Density, ASTM D698-78. Use of
water (puddling) around sleeves for
compaction, is prohibited.
8.4.4 Pipe installation:
A. Teflon tape shall be used on all
threaded joints; only Schedule 80
pipe may be threaded.
B. Reducing of pipe size shall be done
with reducing insert couplings, at
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 57
before handling, and 24 hours
before allowing water in the pipe.
E. Backfill shall be free from rubbish,
stones larger than two 2-inch
diameter, frozen material and
vegetative matter. Backfill shall
not be placed in freezing weather.
If backfill material is rocky, the
pipe shall be bedded in 2 inches of
fill sand covered by 6 inches of fill
sand.
F. After puddling or tamping, all
trenches shall be left slightly
mounded to allow for settling.
G. Backfill shall be compacted to
proper densities depending on
whether the surface area over the
line will be paved or landscaped.
8.4.5 Thrust blocks:
A. Thrust blocks shall be installed
where PVC mainline 2.5 inches or
larger changes direction over 20
degrees.
B. Thrust blocks shall consist of a
minimum of one cubic foot of
concrete.
C. No concrete shall be allowed to
remain on pipe joints.
D. Wiring shall be placed away from
thrust blocks to avoid contact with
concrete.
8.4.6 Valve installation:
A. Valves shall be installed at least 12
inches from, and aligned with, with
adjacent walls or paved edges.
B. Automatic Remote Valves shall be
installed so that valves are
accessible for repairs. Make
electrical connections so as to allow
pigtail so solenoids can be removed
from the valve with 24 inches
(minimum) slack to allow the ends to
be pulled 12 inches above ground.
The zone wire should be coiled.
Flush completely before installing
the valve. Thoroughly flush piping
system under full head of water for
three minutes through furthest
valve, before installing heads.
C. The top of the valve box shall be
flush with the finish grade.
D. The valve assembly shall include the
ball valve and union per detail for
ease of maintenance and repair.
Valves shall be installed in valve
boxes per details.
E. Quick couple valves shall be
installed in 10-inch round locking
valve boxes. Valves shall be flush
P a g e | 58 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
all isolation valves; “DRGV” for all
drip system isolation valves; “QC”
for all quick coupling valves; “WA”
for all winterization assemblies;
“FM” for all flow meter assemblies;
and “MV” for all master valve
assemblies. Use a branding iron
stamp with 3-inch high letters.
H. Valve boxes shall NOT rest on
mainlines. Brick or other non-
compressible material shall be used
per details.
I. Valves shall be installed in boxes
with adequate space to access valves
with ease. Valves shall not be too
deep to be accessible for repairs. A
3-inch depth of ¾-inch washed
gravel shall be placed in the bottom
of each valve box with enough space
to fully turn valve for removal per
detail.
J. Six-inch valve boxes shall be limited
to wire splices, drip end caps, and
drains.
8.4.7 Head installation:
A. Heads shall be set plumb and level
with the finish grade. In sloped
areas, heads shall be tilted as
necessary to provide the full radius
spray pattern.
B. Lateral lines shall be flushed before
installing heads. Thoroughly flush
the piping system under a full head
of water for three minutes through
the furthest head, before installing
the heads. Cap the risers if a delay
of head installation occurs.
C. Pop-up heads along walks and
bikeways shall be bedded in a 6
inch layer of sand under the base of
the head. Heads that border
sidewalks and curbs shall be 1–1 ½
inches from the concrete.
D. Nozzles appropriate for best
performance shall be installed.
E. Nozzles and radius of throw shall be
adjusted to minimize overspray
onto hard surfaces.
8.4.8 Electrical connections:
A. New connections shall be approved
through the City of Fort Collins
Electric Utilities. Call 221-6700 to
obtain power information and
request connection. Actual
connection to transformer or other
power source will be done by the
City of Fort Collins Electric Utilities.
Work shall be coordinated and
scheduled by calling 221-6700.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 59
B. All exposed wiring to and from the
controller shall be encased in
galvanized metal conduit.
C. Exterior controllers to be installed
on a 6-inch thick concrete pad.
D. Controllers shall be installed per City
direction and manufacturers
specifications. Surge protection,
grounding rods and other accessory
components shall be included as
specified.
E. Wire markers shall be attached to
the ends of control wires inside the
controller unit. Label wires with the
identification number of the remote
control valve activated by the wire.
8.4.10 Wiring:
A. Wiring shall comply with City of
Fort Collins Electrical Code.
B. The power source shall be brought
to the controller via a ground fault
receptacle installed within the
controller casing.
C. Control wires shall be strung as
close as possible to the mainline,
consistently along and slightly
below one side of the pipe.
D. A minimum loop of 24 inches shall
be left at each valve and
controller, and at each splice, at
the ends of each sleeve, at 100-foot
intervals along continuous runs of
wiring, and changes of direction of
90 degrees or more.
E. Band wires together at ten (10)
foot intervals with pipe wrapping
tape.
F. Install common ground wire and
one control wire for each remote
control valve. Multiple valves on a
single control wire are prohibited.
Install three extra wires, as
specified, to the furthest valve on
the system and/or each branch of
the system.
8.5
TESTING
8.5.1 Testing requirements:
A. All tests shall be run in the
presence of staff from the City
Parks Division. Schedule all tests a
minimum of forty-eight hours in
advance. Repeat any failed tests
until full acceptance is obtained.
B. An operational test shall activate
each remote control valve from the
controller.
C. The contractor shall replace, adjust
or move heads and nozzles as
P a g e | 60 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
8.6
COMPLETION SERVICES
8.6.1 Requirements upon
completion of construction:
A. When project construction is
complete, the contractor shall
request a punchlist inspection for
construction acceptance from the
City Parks Division.
B. The system shall be demonstrated
to staff from the City Parks
Division.
C. Product ordering information shall
be provided to City Parks Division
staff including model numbers,
sizes and styles for all components.
D. Electronic as-built drawings shall
be provided.
E. Two sets of as-built drawings shall
be provided, showing the system
as installed with each sheet clearly
marked “As-built Drawings”, the
name of the project, and all
information clearly provided.
F. The as-built drawings provided shall
consist of one set of reproducible
mylars, no larger than 24" x 36",
and one set of all sheets reduced to
11" x 17", with each station color
coded, and each sheet plastic
laminated.
G. A completed backflow test for the
backflow prevention device shall be
provided by a licensed backflow
tester.
H. All excess materials, tools, rubbish
and debris shall be removed to
leave a cleaned-up site.
8.6.2 Warranty and maintenance
period:
A. A two-year warranty and
maintenance period provided by
the contractor shall begin upon
construction acceptance by the
City Parks Division.
B. The system shall be maintained in
optimal working condition for the
duration of the period between
construction acceptance and final
acceptance. Periodic adjustments
shall be made to achieve the most
effective and efficient application
of water.
8.6.3 Final acceptance:
A. The contractor shall schedule a
final acceptance inspection by the
City Parks Division at least thirty
days before the end of the one-year
maintenance period.
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 61
C. The yearly backflow test report on
the backflow device shall be
submitted to the City Parks
Division.
8.7
GUARANTEE/WARRANTY AND
REPLACEMENT
8.7.1 Requirements.
For the period following construction
acceptance notice by the City, and
prior to final acceptance, all irrigation
materials, equipment, workmanship
and other appurtenances are to be
guaranteed and warranted against
defects. Settling of trenches or other
depressions, damages to structures or
landscaping caused by settling and
other defects shall be corrected by the
contractor at no cost to the City.
Repairs shall be made within seven
days of notification by the City Parks
Division. The guarantee and warranty
shall apply to all originally installed
materials and equipment, and to
replacements made during the
guarantee/warranty period.
P a g e | 62 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 63
SECTION 9
Fine Grading And
Soil Preparation
Standards
9.1
GENERAL STANDARDS
Soil preparation is a crucial part of
streetscape landscaping success.
Individual projects may require
specially tailored soil preparation,
beyond the scope of these minimum
standards, for sustainable health of
specialized plantings.
9.1.1 Soil testing.
Soils tests conducted by the CSU Soils
Lab must be completed and submitted
to the City for review; and
recommendations in the lab reports
shall be followed in all cases. Generally
this will include soil amendment and
fertilizer recommendations; and in some
cases, complete replacement of topsoil
may be required.
9.1.2 Topsoil required.
If a landscape area is undisturbed,
topsoil shall be stripped to a 6-inch
depth, or to topsoil depth as
determined by field inspection.
Stockpile and re-spread stripped topsoil
over landscape areas after rough grades
are established. If the site has been
disturbed, or sufficient topsoil is not
available, topsoil shall be imported to
achieve six 6-inch depth in all
landscaped areas.
9.2
SUBMITTALS
9.2.1 Soil Amendments.
Submit a representative sample and
written confirmation from the supplier
of soil amendment material
composition including: percent organic
matter, salts, nutrient composition and
trademark.
9.2.2 Topsoil.
Submit a representative sample and
written confirmation from supplier of
material composition including:
percent organic matter, salts, and
nutrient composition.
9.3
MATERIALS STANDARDS
9.3.1 Soil Amendment.
Premium 3, by A-1 Organics, or an
approved equal high quality composted
material containing a minimum of 50%
organic matter shall be required for all
soil amendment. The mixture shall be
free from clay subsoil, stones, lumps,
P a g e | 64 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
objectionable extraneous matter or
debris. No stones or other materials
over 2 inches in size shall be allowed.
Topsoil shall contain no toxic materials
and have an acidity in the range of pH
5.5 to pH 8.5.
9.3.3. Fertilizer.
Triple superphosphate with a chemical
analysis of 0-46-0 shall be incorporated
into soil along with soil amendment.
9.4
ROUGH GRADING OPERATIONS
9.4.1 Utility locates.
All utilities shall be located prior to
trenching and shall be protected from
damage. Required calls shall include,
but are not limited to the following:
221-6660 for Parks Division locates and
1-800-922-1987 for utility locates.
9.4.2 Acceptance of rough grading by
other contractors.
The landscape contractor shall inspect
and confirm that any rough grading
from other contractors is per approved
plans, and allows for 6-inch minimum
depth of topsoil and specified soil
amendments.
9.4.3 Clearing and grubbing.
The contractor shall grub and remove
unsuitable woody and rock material
present in the surface grade.
9.4.4 Maintain drainage.
The contractor shall take precautions
to accommodate proper drainage and
flow during and after grading and soil
preparation.
9.4.5 Kill weeds.
Apply herbicide to areas where noxious
weed beds have been established and /
or where seed mix is to be planted.
Herbicide must be applied by certified
contractors at the rate recommended by
the manufacturer after proper
notification has been done in
accordance with the chemical
applicator's standards.
9.4.6 Rip planting areas.
Rip to 8-inch depth with agriculture
subsoiler in all areas to receive
plantings. Remove all objects greater
than 2 inches in diameter.
9.5
FINISH GRADING OPERATIONS
9.5.1 Topsoil placement shall include
the following procedures:
A. Spread 6 inches of topsoil over the
entire landscaped area and grade
to smooth and even lines. Establish
swales and drainage as required per
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 65
C. Trim finish grade elevations
adjacent to paved areas to one inch
below pavement finish grade.
P a g e | 66 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 67
SECTION 10
Grass Seeding
Standards
10.1
GRASS SEEDING
10.1.1 Seed Mixes.
Seed mixes shall be approved by the
City Parks Division based on the activity
to take place, planned irrigation
method and maintenance to be
performed in the area being seeded.
10.1.2 Pre-approved Dryland Mix.
For temporary or permanent unmowed
and non-irrigated areas, the following
mix shall be permitted:
45% Blue Grama,
25% Buffalograss (treated), and
30% Little Bluestem.
10.1.3 Pre-approved turfgrass mix.
For irrigated, mowed areas, the
following mixes shall be permitted: 1) a
blend of five turf type dwarf Tall
Fescues, or 2) a mix of Kentucky
Bluegrass varieties and up to 15%
Perennial Rye.
10.1.4 Submittals.
Certificates showing State, Federal or
other inspection showing source and
origin shall be submitted.
10.1.5 Seed quality.
Seed shall be of fresh, clean, new crop
seed composed of the varieties
approved by the City with tested
minimum percentages of purity and
germination clearly labeled on the
package. All seed shall be at least
99.9% free of Poa annua and all weeds.
10.1.6 Mulch for seeded areas.
Mulch depends on the slope of the
seeded area as follows:
A. For slopes 30% and less, native
grass straw without weed seed and
consisting of grasses as specified
for the seeded application shall be
used.
B. For slopes 30% and greater:
Hydromulch using Weyerhauser
"Silva-Fiber" mulch or approved
equal shall be used. The mulch
shall not contain any substance
which might inhibit germination or
growth of grass seed. The mulch
shall be dyed a green color to allow
metering of its application.
10.1.7 Tackifier.
Teratack III, or approved equal shall be
used.
10.1.8 Netting.
For slopes greater than 30%, Soil Saver
P a g e | 68 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
square foot of seeded area and rake
lightly into top 1/8 inch of soil just
prior to seeding operation.
10.1.10 Inspection.
The contractor shall inspect finish
grade and trim where needed to obtain
finish grades of one inch below
adjacent pavements. Verify positive
drainage away from all structures.
Verify or complete removal of rock and
debris larger than one inch from all
areas to be seeded.
10.1.11 Weather for seeding.
Seed shall not be sown in windy weather
or when ground is frozen or otherwise
untillable.
10.1.12 Methods for seeding:
A. A brillion type drill or hydraulic
seeding methods may be used.
Drill the seed in a manner such that
after surface is raked and rolled,
the seed has ¼-inch of cover.
B. Hydraulic seeding shall be used in
areas that are not accessible for
machine methods. A hydraulic
pump capable of being operated at
100 gallons per minute and at 100
pounds per square inch pressure
shall be used. The equipment shall
have an acceptable pressure gauge
and a nozzle adaptable to hydraulic
seeding requirements. Storage
tanks shall have a means of
agitation and a means of estimating
the volume used or remaining in
the tank. Do not seed and mulch in
the same operation.
10.1.13 Seeding rates.
The following rates of application shall
apply:
A. Dryland Mix – 12 pounds pure live
seed per acre.
B. Irrigated Mix – 9 pounds pure live
seed per acre for the Tall Fescue
blend, or 4 pounds pure live seed
for the Kentucky Blue/Perennial
Rye mix.
10.1.14 Mulching operations for
native grass mulch.
Mulch shall be applied at a rate of two
2 tons per acre within 24 hours after
seeding.
10.1.15 Hydromulching operations.
Wood cellulose fibers shall be evenly
dispersed by agitatation in water.
When sprayed uniformly on the soil
surface, the fibers shall form a blotter-
like ground cover that readily absorbs
water and allows infiltration to the
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 69
10.1.16 Mulch netting operations.
Mulched areas over 30% slope shall be
stabilized with netting. If the
contractor fails to net and subsequent
soil erosion occurs, the contractor shall
re-establish the finish grade, soil
preparation, seed bed, and apply
netting at no cost to the City.
10.1.17 Watering.
Immediately after seeding and
mulching, water the seeded area
slightly to a depth of 2 inches, but with
care so that no erosion takes place and
no gullies are formed. Water lightly
two times per day and keep the seeded
area moist until turf is established.
Sloped areas shall be hand watered
until turf is established to prevent
erosion. Water these areas more often
but for shorter periods of time.
10.1.18 Clean up.
All hydromulch and other mulch
materials shall be removed from all
plant materials, fences, concrete and
other areas except for the seed bed.
10.1.19 Protection of seeded areas
for establishment.
The contractor shall provide and install
barriers as required to protect seeded
areas from pedestrian and vehicular
damage. Signage shall be provided if
needed.
P a g e | 70 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 71
EXHIBIT A
List of
Recommended
Plants
The list below contains recommended
plant species for streetscapes. This list
will be monitored by staff as part of an
ongoing program with periodic updates
based on evaluation of success of
plantings over time.
Designers of individual streetscape
projects may propose plants not on the
list based on the design intent for the
particular project.
P a g e | 72 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
List of Recommended Plants
Last Amended 11.8.2012
Comments
Key:
Canopy Shade Trees
Acer negundo - Boxelder ‘Sensation’
Catalpa speciosa - Northern Catalpa Tolerant of alkaline soils; holds a strong
dominant leader; male tree so no
boxelder bugs
Celtis occidentalis - Northern Hackberry
Gleditsia triacanthos v. inermis - Honeylocust ‘Imperial,’
‘Shademaster’, ‘Skyline’
Wrap young trees
Gymnocladus dioicus - Kentucky Coffeetree ‘Espresso’
Quercus buckleyi - Texas Red Oak Many seed sources, not predictably cold
hardy
Quercus macrocarpa - Bur Oak Slow growing
Quercus muehlenbergii - Chinkapin Oak
Quercus robur - English Oak, Skymaster
Quercus shumardii - Shumard Oak From a northern source
Tilia americana - American Linden ‘Boulevard’, ‘Frontyard’,
‘Legend’, ‘Sentry’
Do not use in along roads that are treated
with deicing salts
Tilia cordata - Littleleaf Linden ‘Chancellor’, ‘Dropmore’,
‘Greenspire’, ‘Norlin’, ‘Olympic’, ‘Prestige’, ‘Shamrock’
Do not use in along roads that are treated
with deicing salts
Tilia x euchlora - Redmond Linden Do not use in along roads that are treated
with deicing salts
Tilia x flavescens - Glenleven Linden Do not use in along roads that are treated
with deicing salts
Ulmus davidiana - David Elm
Ulmus japonica x U. wilsoniana – Elm ‘Accolade’, ‘Triumph’ Use in smaller quantities
Ornamental Trees
Acer grandidentatum - Wasatch Maple
Acer tataricum - Tatarian maple ‘Hot Wings’, ‘Pattern
Perfect’
Crataegus crusgalli - Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn
Malus sp. - Crabapple 'Adams', 'Profusion', 'Radiant', 'Spring
Snow', 'Thunderchild'
Spring Snow' has some limited fireblight
problems.
Pyrus calleryana - Flowering Pear 'Aristocrat', 'Capital',
'Chanticleer', 'Cleveland Select', 'Redspire'
Quercus gambelli - Gambel Oak
Quercus alba x robur – Oak ‘Crimson Spire’
Syringa reticulata - Japanese Tree Lilac 'Ivory Silk'
CO native status as
determined by USDA
Plants Database
native status as
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 73
Comments
Large Evergreen Trees
Picea Pungens - Blue Spruce 'Fat Albert', 'Baby Blue Eyes' Sensitive to salt.
Pinus nigra - Austrian Pine Only use in wide medians.
Small Evergreen Trees
Juniperus scopulorum - Rocky Mountain Juniper
'Cologreen', 'Moonglow', 'Wichita Blue'
Juniperus monosperma - Oneseed Juniper Very low water use
Picea pungens - Dwarf Blue Spruce 'Sester', 'Globosa',
'Montgomery'
Pinus mugho - Mugo Pine 'Tannenbaum'
Shrubby Trees/Large Shrubs
Acer grandidentatum - Bigtooth Maple
Quercus gambelli - Gambel Oak
Cercocarpus ledifolius - Curlleaf Mountain-Mahogany
Xanthoceras sorbifolia - Yellowhorn
Rhus glabra, R. glabra cismontana - Smooth Sumac, Rocky
Mountain Smooth Sumac
Deciduous Shrubs
Amelanchier alnifolia - Regent Serviceberry
Amorpha canescens - Leadplant Deadhead
Amorpha nana - Dwarf Leadplant Deadhead
Aronia arbutifolia - Red Chokeberry
Aronia melanocarpa - Chokeberry, Dwarf Iroquois Beauty
Artemisia tridentata - Tall Western Sage
Atriplex canescens - Fourwing Saltbush
Caragana pygmaea - Pygmy Peashrub
Caragana rosea - Rose Peashrub
Ceratoides lanata - Winterfat
Cercocarpus ledifolius - Curl Leaf Mountain Mahogany Can grow to be quite large with too much
water
Cercocarpus ledifolius intricatus - Little Leaf Mountain
Mahogany
Cercocarpus montanus - True Mountain Mahogany
Chamaebatiaria millefolium - Fernbush Deadhead
Chrysothamnus nauseosus nauseosus - Dwarf Blue
Rabbitbrush
Gets large with irrigation
P a g e | 74 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Comments
Chrysothamnus nauseosus albiculatus - Tall Blue
Rabbitbrush
Chrysothamnus nauseosus graveolens - Green Rabbitbrush
Caryopteris incana - Blue Mist Spirea Shear back after blooming, prune out
dead wood annually
Caryopteris x clandonensis - Dark Knight Spirea Used on Harmony project
Cotoneaster apiculatus - Cranberry Cotoneaster
Cotoneaster horizontalis - Rock Cotoneaster
Cytisus scoparius 'Burkwoodii' - Red Burkwoodii Broom
Ephedra equisetina - Bluestem Joint Fir
Ephedra viridis - Mormon Tea
Euonymus alatus 'Compactus' - Dwarf Burning Bush
Fallugia paradoxa - Apache Plume
Ligustrum vulgare 'Lodense' - Lodense Privet
Physocarpus monogynus - Mountain Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius - Ninebark
Potentilla fruticosa - Potentilla
Potentilla fruticosa davurica 'Prairie Snow' - Prairie Snow
Potentilla
Potentilla fruticosa 'Yellow Gem' - Yellow Gem Potentilla
Prunus besseyi 'Pawnee Buttes' - Creeping Western Sand
Cherry
Rhus aromatica'Gro-low' - Fragrant Dwarf Sumac Needs ample space
Rhus glabra cismontana - Rocky Mountain Sumac Needs ample space
Rhus trilobata 'Autumn Amber' - Creeping Three-leaf Sumac
Ribes aureum - Golden Currant
Ribes cereum - Wax Currant
Rosa x var. - Shrub Rose Remove deadwood each spring, many
will continue blooming if deadheaded.
Spiraea nipponica - Snowmound Spirea
Spiraea thunbergii - Mellow Yellow Spirea
Spiraea x vanhouttei - Vanhoutte Spirea
Symphoricarpos occidentalis - Snowberry
Symphoricarpos orbiculatus - Red Coralberry
Symphoricarpos x chenaultii - 'Hancock' Coralberry
Syringa meyeri - Dwarf Korean Lilac Looks best when deadheaded after
blooming
Syringa patula 'Miss Kim' - Miss Kim Dwarf Lilac Looks best when deadheaded after
blooming
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 75
Comments
Evergreen Shrubs
Juniperus chinensis - Chinese Juniper
Juniperus communis - Common Juniper
Juniperus horizontalis - Creeping Juniper
Juniperus monosperma - Oneseed Juniper
Juniperus scopulorum - Rocky Mountain Juniper
Picea pungens - Globe Spruce
Pinus mugo - Mugo Pine
Evergreen (Broad-leafed)
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi - Kinnikinnick
Arctostaphylos x coloradoensis panchito - Panchito
Manzanita
Euonymus kiautschovicus - Manhattan Euonymus
Yucca filamentosa - Adam's needle Yucca
Yucca glauca - Soapweed
Ornamental Grasses
Boutelous gracilis - Blue Grama Grass Winter interest; cut back in spring
Bouteloua gracilis - 'Blonde Ambition' Blue Grama Grass
Deschampsia caespitosa - Tufted Hair Grass
Festuca ovina glauca - Blue Fescue
Pennisetum alopecuroides - Fountain Grass This acts more like an annual
Schizachyrium scoparium - Little Bluestem
Sorghastrum nutans - Indiangrass
Perennials
Achillea filipendulina 'Parker's Variety' - Tall Yellow Yarrow Deadhead
Achillea 'Moonshine' - Moonshine Yarrow Deadhead
Asclepias tuberosa - Butterfly Weed
Agastache 'Coronado Red' - Coronado Red Hyssop Do not cut back until spring to promote
overwintering
Agastache cana 'Sonoran Sunset' - Sonoran Sunset Hyssop Do not cut back until spring to promote
overwintering
Agastache rupestris - Sunset Hyssop Do not cut back until spring to promote
overwintering
Artemisia frigida - Fringed Sage
Artemisia schmidtiana - Silver Mound Sage Cut back in mid-summer when sprawls
P a g e | 76 CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS
Comments
Artemisia versicolor - Sea Foam Sage
Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Coreopsis Grows well in rocky, well drained soil
Echinacea purpurea - Purple Coneflower Deadhead, if too much irrigation, will get
root fungus
Echinacea purpurea 'White Swan' - White Coneflower Deadhead, if too much irrigation, will get
root fungus
Erigeron speciosus var. macranthus - Aspen Fleabane,
Aspen Daisy
Gailardia aristata - Native Blanket Flower Short lived
Geranium cinereum - 'Ballerina' Cranesbill
Geranium dalmaticum - Compact Rose Cranesbill Alpine and rock gardens, does not seed
out
Geranium endressii - 'Wargrave Pink' Pink Cranesbill Attractive to pollinators
Geranium himalayense 'Plenum' - Birch Double Cranesbill Very showy
Geranium x 'Johnson's Blue' - Blue Cranesbill
Geranium sanguineum - Bloody Cranesbill
Hemerocallis spp. - Daylily Deadhead, cut back in late fall
Hesperaloe parviflora - Red False Yucca Needs good drainage, don't use bark
mulch around crown, marginal hardiness
Lavandula angustifolia - Lavender Shear back after bloom, can have winter
dieback
Liatris punctata - Gayfeather, Dotted Blazing Star
Liatris spicata 'Floristan Violet' - Purple Gayfeather
Linum flavum 'Compactum' - Yellow Flax
Lychnis coronaria - Rose Compion Bennial, reseeds aggressively
Oenothera macrocarpa - Missouri Primrose Self sows
Penstemon pinifolius - Pineleaf Penstemon Shear back after bloom
Penstemon strictus - Rocky Mountain Pentstemon Deadhead
Persicaria affinis - Himalayan Border Jewel
Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Black-Eyed Susan Other varieties may live longer
Salvia pachyphylla - Mojave Sage Marginal hardiness, needs excellent
drainage
Sedum 'Autumn Joy' - Stonecrop
Groundcovers
Alyssum montanum - Mountain Basket of Gold
Callirhoe involucrata - Winecups Self sows. Cut back after first flush of
blooms to promote new growth
Ceratostigma plumbaginoides - Plumbago Can die out in winter
Euonymus fortunei - Euonymus Invasive in some states
Polygonum reynoutria - Fleeceflower Considered invasive in many states; plant
where it can be contained
CITY OF FORT COLLINS STREETSCAPE STANDARDS P a g e | 77
ORDINANCE NO. 152, 2012
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 26 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AND THE FORT COLLINS STORMWATER CRITERIA MANUAL
TO INCORPORATE PROVISIONS IMPLEMENTING
LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPLES
WHEREAS, on April 6, 2010, the City Council adopted on second reading Ordinance No.
030, 2010, amending Section 26-492 of the City Code so as to declare that the purpose of the City
Stormwater Utility is to provide an integrated, sustainable stormwater management program that
reflects the community’s values of protecting and restoring the City’s watersheds, including the
Cache la Poudre River and its tributaries; and
WHEREAS, one element of such an integrated, sustainable stormwater management
program is the use of low impact development (“LID”) criteria to require and encourage more
distributed and landscaping-based stormwater runoff management and control that relies mainly on
filtration and infiltration to treat and manage stormwater runoff; and
WHEREAS, staff has worked extensively in recent years to research and evaluate LID
approaches and policies in other jurisdictions, as the basis for developing a recommended approach
to be used in Fort Collins; and
WHEREAS, based on staff’s research and review, staff has recommended that LID criteria
be incorporated into the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual; and
WHEREAS, in addition, staff has recommended that the use of LID techniques and
technologies be recognized in the calculation of stormwater fees; and
WHEREAS, the Water Board considered staff’s recommendations at its regular meeting on
November 15, 2012, and voted unanimously to recommend that the Council adopt them; and
WHEREAS, the Natural Resources Advisory Board considered staff’s recommendations at
its regular meeting on November 26, 2012, and voted unanimously to recommend that the Council
adopt them; and
WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the adoption and implementation of the
Ordinance will promote the purposes of the Stormwater Utility and advance the holistic and
integrated management of stormwater in Fort Collins by implementing desired LID technologies
and principles.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. That Section 26-512(1) of the City Code of the City of Fort Collins be
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 26-512. Stormwater plant investment fees established.
There is hereby imposed on each and every lot or parcel of land within the City with
respect to which any improvement creates an impervious surface covering more than
three hundred fifty (350) square feet of the lot or parcel, and the owners thereof, a
stormwater plant investment fee. The fee is deemed reasonable and necessary to pay
for a new development's share of the existing equity in the capital stormwater
facilities that have been installed for the protection of the health, safety and welfare
of the inhabitants of the City. The stormwater plant investment fee established herein
shall be determined using the base rate, the area of each parcel of land, and the runoff
coefficient of the parcel. The Utilities Executive Director shall determine the
stormwater plant investment fee that applies to each parcel of land as follows:
(1) Runoff coefficient. The runoff coefficient of each parcel of land shall be that
used in the engineering formula known as the rational method. The Utilities
Executive Director shall determine the runoff coefficient for each parcel of land
based on the following formula:
Runoff coefficient = [(percent effective impervious area) x 0.95] +
[(percent pervious area) x 0.20] + [(percent semipervious area) x 0.50)].
The following definitions shall apply for the purpose of such formula:
a. Percent effective impervious area shall mean the percentage of the
total parcel area determined to constitute the equivalent impervious
area on a parcel as calculated for the one-hundred-year, two-hour
Fort Collins Design Storm as defined in Volume 1, Chapter 4, of the
Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual. The determination shall be
made using the procedures and methodology described in Volume 3,
Sections 4 and 5 of the Stormwater Criteria Manual.
b. Percent pervious area shall mean the percentage of the total parcel area that
is pervious, such as lawn, open space or planted areas.
c. Percent semipervious area shall mean the percentage of the total parcel area
that is semipervious, such as gravel areas.
Section 2 That Section (K) of the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria Manual is hereby
amended to add a new subsection (3) after subsection (2), to read as follows:
(3) A new Section 3.1 is added, to read as follows:
3.1 Low Impact Development Criteria
Once the WQCV has been calculated in accordance with the specifications of Section 3.0
of this chapter, the total WQCV must be treated by one or more of the methods outlined in
Volume 3, Chapter 4, Treatment BMPs. In addition, the requirements set forth below in this
Section, referred to as Low Impact Development (LID) Criteria, of this Section must be met.
For the purposes of this Section, the LID methods and techniques described in Volume 3,
-2-
Chapter 1, Section 4.1, Runoff Reduction Practices, together with any methods or techniques
determined by the Executive Director to be functionally equivalent, shall be considered LID
techniques for the purpose of this Section.
(a) The LID Criteria are as follows:
(a1) No less than fifty percent (50%) of any newly added
impervious area must be treated using one or a combination
of LID techniques; and.
(b2) In addition, no No less than twenty five percent (25%) of any
newly added pavement areas must be treated using a
permeable pavement technology that is considered an LID
technique.
(b) If, in the judgment of the Executive Director, one or more requirements of
this Section cannot be met due to site engineering constraints, then a design
alternative will be allowed, provided that the design results in equal or better
stormwater quality than would compliance with the otherwise applicable
requirement.
Section 3. That all subsections of Section (K) of the Fort Collins Stormwater Criteria
Manual after new subsection (3) be renumbered accordingly.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 18th day of
December, A.D. 2012, and to be presented for final passage on the 26th day of February, A.D. 2013.
_________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on the 26th day of February, A.D. 2013.
_________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
-3-
underlying soil. Cellulose fiber mulch
shall be added with the proportionate
quantities of water and other approved
materials in the slurry tank. All
ingredients shall be mixed to form a
homogenous slurry. Using the color of
the mulch as a metering agent, spray
apply the slurry mixture uniformly over
the seeded area. Apply with tackafier
used at a rate of 120 pounds per acre.
Unless otherwise ordered for specific
areas, fiber mulch shall be applied at
the rate of 2,000 pounds per acre.
Hydraulic mulching shall not be
performed in the presence of free
surface water resulting from rains,
melting snow or other causes.
jute netting or approved equal shall be
used. Netting shall be stapled with No.
11 gauge steel wire forged into a 6-inch
long U-shape, and painted for visibility
in mowed areas.
10.1.9 Fertilizer.
Fertilizer. Fertilizer with a formula of
18-46-0 shall be used on all areas to be
seeded. Apply 8 pounds per 1,000
plans.
B. Evenly distribute soil amendment
at rate of 3 cubic yards per 1,000
square of area, or 1-inch depth over
the entire area to be prepared.
Modify the rate if a soil test
recommends otherwise. Till
amendments into top 6 inches of
soil. Compact to a firm, but not
hard density (80% of Standard
Proctor Density at 2% optimum
moisture). Evenly distribute triple
superphosphate fertilizer at the
rate of 15 pounds per 1,000 square
feet. Modify the type and rate if a
soil test recommends otherwise.
plants or roots, sticks, weed stolons,
seeds, high salt content and other
materials harmful to plant life. The
compost shall be coarsely ground with
an even composition and have an acidity
in the range of pH 5.5 to pH 7.0. All
material shall be sufficiently
composted such that no original source
material used is recognizable.
9.3.2 Topsoil.
Topsoil must be taken from a well
drained, arable site and shall be
reasonably free of subsoil, stones,
clods, sticks, roots and other
B. The contractor shall provide
operating keys, servicing tools, test
equipment, warranties/guarantees,
maintenance manuals, and the
contractor's affidavit of release of
liens. Submittal of all these items
must be accompanied by a
transmittal letter and delivered to
the City Parks Division offices
(delivery at the project site is not
acceptable.)
needed to obtain acceptable
performance of the system as
directed by staff.
D. The contractor shall replace
defective valves, wiring or other
appurtenances to correct
operational deficiencies.
B. All work other than actual
connection, including access to the
transformer box where applicable,
shall be supplied by the contractor.
C. All materials shall be provided by
the contractor. When working near
any City electric facility, prior
coordination and approval is
required.
8.4.9 Controller Installation:
A. Controllers shall be installed in an
above-ground location suitable to
prevent vandalism and provide
protection from adverse weather
conditions, and per City direction.
completely before installation.
Thoroughly flush the piping system
under a full head of water for three
minutes through the furthest valve.
F. Isolation gate valves shall be
installed in the valve box.
G. Valve boxes shall be branded with
the following codes: “SV” and the
controller valve number per as-built
plans for all remote control valves;
“DV” for all drain valves; “GV” for
least 6 inches beyond the last tee
of the larger pipe.
C. PVC lateral pipe shall be snaked
from side to side within the trench.
D. Cut pipe ends shall be cut square
and deburred. Pipe ends shall be
cleaned before using primer and
solvent cement. Pipe ends shall be
joined in a manner recommended
by manufacturer and in accordance
with accepted industry practices.
Joints shall cure for 30 minutes
D. Copper pipe shall be soldered so
that a continuous bead shows
around the joint circumference.
Insert a dielectric union wherever a
copper-based metal (copper, brass,
bronze) and an iron-based metal
(iron, galvanized steel, stainless
steel) are joined.
8.4.2 Pipe trenching:
A. Install pipe in open-cut trenches of
sufficient width to facilitate
thorough tamping/ puddling of
suitable backfill material under and
over pipe.
B. Trenches shall be as straight as
possible, but when a bend of 20
degrees or more is necessary,
proper fittings shall be used to
reduce stress on the pipe.
brands and models to match other
equipment in use in public systems in
the vicinity. Gear driven rotor heads
shall be Hunter or approved equal.
Pop-up spray heads shall be Hunter,
Rainbird, or approved equal. All heads
should have pressure regulating device
integrated in them to maintain proper
operating pressure. They also shall
have anti water draining valves to avoid
water waste when not in operation.
(Example: Rain Bird 1804 PRS/SAM
heads. A minimum of 4” pop-up is
required.)
the left (wheel opening is
unacceptable).
E. Manual drain valves shall be ¾-inch
ball valve with tee handle, Watts
#B-6000, or approved equal.
F. Quick coupler valves shall be 1-inch
brass, Rainbird #5RC units with
rubber cover. Supply 1-inch brass
key for Rainbird 55K.
G. Spears True Union ball valves shall
be installed upstream of the
remote control zone valve.
Equivalent substitutes shall be
accepted.
H. Valve boxes shall have matching
locking cover which shall be
Carson, Pentex or approved equal.
sweated on, attaching a female
adapter with a threaded brass plug.
S. A blowout tee shall be installed
immediately downstream of the
backflow prevention device.
8.2
MATERIALS STANDARDS
8.2.1 Pipe:
A. Copper shall be type K rigid
conforming to ASTM Standard B88.
B. Mainline shall be Class 200 PVC,
NSF approved. If 3 inches or
larger, use ringtite pipe.
C. Laterals shall be Class 200 PVC, NSF
approved.
Parks Division prior to or during
installation.
F. The irrigation system shall be
designed to provide full coverage
and matched precipitation rates.
G. Lateral piping shall be sized based
on flow demands in gallons per
minute (gpm); with velocities not
to exceed 5.5 feet per second.
H. Xeriscape principles shall be
utilized in the design of the
irrigation system.
not part of the design intent. Weeding
may be done manually or by the use of
herbicide and or pre-emergent. The use
of any restricted herbicides or soil
sterilants is prohibited. In accordance
with Best Management Practices, the
effectiveness of the herbicide shall be
monitored.
Contact the City Parks Division at
221-6660 for further information.
7.3
ACCEPTANCE OF NEW ARTERIAL
STREETSCAPE PROJECTS FOR
CITY MAINTENANCE
7.3.1 Streetscape installed to City
standards.
Any new streetscape landscaping not
designed and installed to these
standards may be rejected by the City
Parks Division for inclusion in its
maintenance program. Developers and
City capital projects shall notify the
City Parks Division and conduct a walk-
through with Parks and Forestry Division
staff at the end of the warranty period.
Any defects in the landscaping or
irrigation system shall be corrected by
immediate danger to persons or
property. Any such emergency
procedures must be reported promptly
to the City Forester with plans for
completion or follow-up work submitted
for approval. See the City of Fort Collins
Tree Management Standards and Best
Management Practices for details on
acceptable pruning practices.
7.2
MAINTENANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
Maintenance responsibilities vary among
different street types, and also with
specific circumstances of abutting
properties.
7.2.1 Maintenance responsibilities
standards and requirements:
A. Street trees located on the City
right-of-way are the responsibility
of the City Forestry Division to
discussed in Section 4. The choice of
grass species and variety can make a
major difference in water use needs,
ease of establishment, survival of the
grass, weeding, mowing, and renovation
requirements.
repeating elements to create a theme
for the area and avoid clutter.
Custom-tailored streetscape with parkway and
median details as part of a whole planning approach
to a street segment in Campus West.
pattern of transit facilities.
when dormant. They can offer a
beautiful alternative to cool-season
turfgrasses with their fine textures and
soft gray-green color. They require full
sun and significant weed control to
maintain a high quality appearance in
city landscapes. They do not tolerate
shady spots, high levels of foot traffic,
or overwatering. They are not as
competitive with weeds, and weeds
stand out in contrast to the texture and
color of the grasses.
Reasons and concepts for all project
decisions including planting,
irrigation, mulches, boulders,
hardscape, and urban design
elements.
Plant species needing pruning or
trimming, specific weeding control
practices, annual clean-up, dividing
or periodic replacing to achieve the
intent.
2010 CDOT Estimate
Lower Land Value Not Accounted For
Notes
Actual Contractor Cost (Delta Const)
Smaller Pond w/ Detention Below Parking i
Contractor Estimate
Contractor Estimate
Contractor Estimate
Appreciated Land Value Not Accounted for
Cost
$87,500
$15,000
$102,500
$6,250
$5,000
$8,750
$122,500
Parking
Lots
Pavement
Cost
Comparisons
Units
$/Sq .ft
$/Sq.ft
$/Sq.ft
Asphalt
Surface:
North Lot
Unit Cost
$2.30
$5.38
$8.63
Paver
Surface:
South Lot
Unit Cost
$5.00
$5.86
$7.00
217%
109%
81%
Quantity Units Frequency Unit Cost
20,000 Sq.ft lx $2.30
1 $ lx $25,000.00
3 Each lx $2,500.00
2 Each lx $2,500.00
300 Linear ft lx $80.00
$/Sq.ft $5.38
25 Lump sum 1/year $250.00
20000 Sq.ft 1/5 years $10,000.00
5 Lump sum 1/ 5 years $500.00
$
$1Sq.ft $8.63
Quantity Units Frequency Unit Cost
17,500 Sq.ft lx $5.00
1 $ lx $15,000.00
$/Sq.ft $5.86
25 Lump Sum 1/year $500.00
5 Lump Sum 1/5 years $1,000.00
17,500 Sq.ft lx 0.5 $/sq.ft
Cost
$46,000
$25,000
$7,500
$5,000
$24,000
$107,500
$12,500
$50,000
$2,500
$172,500
$
$/Sq.ft
Surface Pavement Initial Cost
Total Initial Infrastructure Costs
Total Life Cycle Costs
$7.00
Item Detail
Includes Only Initial Cost of Pavement Surface
Includes Drainage Appurtenances Initial Costs
Includes Initial, Maintenance and Replacement Costs
Asphalt/Payers
46%
92%
123%
Pavers/Aspha It
$8.63
per square
foot
compared
to
a
paver
life
cycle
cost
of
approximately $7.00
per
square
foot.
When
comparing
these
parking
lots
using
a
life
cycle
cost
analysis,
the
paver
parking
was
actually more
economical,
with
a
cost
comparison
of
0.8
times
the
asphalt
parking
lot.
As a
comparable
source
of
information,
Staff
looked
at
research’
done
comparing
the
25-year
life-cycle cost
of
a
40,000-square-foot
parking
lot.
The first
design
constructed
the
lot
using
a
brand
of
block paver,
including
installation,
biannual vacuum
sweeping
and
other
maintenance
at
a
cost
of
$190,200.
The
second
comparison
design
constructed
the
lot
using
impervious
asphalt,
including installation, routine maintenance
and
replacement
costs
at
a
total
life
cycle
cost
of
$275,875.
It
should
be
noted
that these
costs
will
vary
from site
to
site,
depending
on
land
value, the
type
of
permeable
system
used
and
other
engineering
site
constraints
that
may exist.
That
is
the
reason
why
the
extent
of
the
requirement
was
limited
to
25%
of
the
entire
paved
area.
This
will
allow
time
to
collect
additional
data
and
further evaluate
the
benefits
and
costs
of
this
technology.
When
analyzing
the
“life
cycle
costs”
of
the
parking
lot,
additional
costs
savings
by
the
developer
of
that
property
should
be
considered
and
include:
•
Reduced
need
for storm sewers
and inlets
•
Increased
site
utilization (through
the
reduction
in
detention
pond
size)
•
Reduced costs for
repairs
•
Reduced
maintenance
costs
•
Increased
life
expectancy
•
Higher
resale
value
The
City
has
adopted
a
Triple
Bottom
Line
approach
in
analyzing
benefits
and
costs
and
alternatives
analysis.
From
that
perspective,
the
additional
benefits
that
are
realized
by
using
permeable
pavement
systems
are:
•
Provide water quality
treatment
•
Accommodate
detention
facility
requirements
•
Provide
groundwater
recharge
•
Reduce
thermal
water
pollution
•
Eliminate
standing water
on
pavement
•
Reduce
needs
for
repairs
(Better
withstand freeze
thaw
and
frost
heave
conditions)
•
Reduce
heat
island
effect
•
Reduce
water demand
Brattebo,
Ben
and
Derek
Booth.
“Permeable Parking
Lot
Demonstration
Project
— The
Six-Year
Follow-Up”. Center
for Urban
Water
Resources
Management, University
of
Washington.
Sept.
11,2002.’
2012
STREETS
AND
STORMWATER
SITE DEVELOPMENT
INITIATIVES
-
ORDINANCE
NO.
152,2012,
AMENDING
CHAPTER
26
OF
THE
CITY
CODE
AND
THE
FORT
COLLINS STORMWATER
CRITERIA
MANUAL
TO
INCORPORATE
PROVISIONS
IMPLEMENTING
LOW
IMPACT
DEVELOPMENT
PRINCIPLES
The
Low
Impact
Development
(LID)
Criteria
and
Policy
address
the
City’s
requirements
and
incentives
for
a
more
distributed
stormwater
runoff
management
and
control relying
mainly
on
filtration
and
infiltration
to
treat
and
manage
stormwater
runoff.
This
memorandum
is
a
clarification
in
response
to
a
request
by
a
Councilmember
to
address
the
issue
of
the
installation
costs
of
permeable
pavement
systems
in
accordance
with
the
proposed
requirements
of
Ordinance
152
(2012).
When
analyzing
the
cost
implications
of
requiring
25%
of
proposed
parking
areas
to
be
permeable,
Staff
looked
at
the
installation
costs
of
a
local
parking
facility
built
in
2010.
Part
of
that facility
was
built
with
a
permeable paver
system
and
the
other
with
asphalt
pavement.
There
are
three
points
at
which
to
compare
when
evaluating
the
annualized
costs
of
permeable
payers versus
traditional asphalt
paving
for
that
particular
site.
These
costs
comparison
are
detailed
in
the
attached
spreadsheet.
1.)
The
cost
of
the
surfacing
materials.
Asphalt
paving
has
a
unit
cost
of
approximately
$2.30
per
square
foot
versus
approximately
$5.00
per
square
foot
for
the
paver
surfacing.
This
is
the
2.2
initial
cost factor
(paver
to
asphalt) referred
to
in
the
Council
AIS.
2.)
The
total
cost
of
initial
installation. The
asphalt paving
at
approximately
$5.38
per
square
foot requires
additional
storm
water
inlets
and
piping
plus
a
larger detention
pond
area.
The
paver
construction
at
approximately
$5.86 per square
foot
does not
need
the
ATTACHMENT 6
HOA, may request a Parkway
LAndscape Amendment to an approved
plan for parkway landscaping..
6.1.4 Turf‐type grass.
Turf-type grass shall be permitted,
including both cool-season turfgrasses
and warm-season native shortgrasses as
discussed in Section 4. The choice of
grass species and variety can make a
major difference in water use needs,
ease of establishment, survival of the
grass, weeding, mowing, and
renovation requirements.
OPTION 3
ATTACHMENT 4
Page 43 of Exhibit A to
Ordinance No. 151, 2012
A property owner or a Homeowners
Association (HOA), or a property owner
with approval from the HOA, may
request a Parkway Landscape Minor
Amendment to an approved plan for
parkway landscaping. Such a request
by a property owner may be made
regardless of any Homeowner
Association covenants that may apply
to the development, and shall be
limited to the parkway strip abutting
the lot in question, of the property
owner and shall be reviewed by the
Director in accordance with Section
2.2.10(D) of the Land Use Code.
OPTION 2
ATTACHMENT 3
Page 43 of Exhibit A to
Ordinance No. 151, 2012
A Homeowners Association (HOA), or a
property owner with notice to and
opportunity for commentapproval from
the HOA, may request a MinorParkway
Landscaping Amendment to an
approved plan for parkway landscaping.
Such a request by a property owner
shall be limited to the parkway strip
abutting the lot in question of the
property owner and shall be reviewed
by the Director in accordance with
Section 2.2.10(D) of the Land Use
Code.
6.1.4 Turf‐type grass.
OPTION 1
ATTACHMENT 2
Page 43 of Exhibit A to
Ordinance No. 151, 2012