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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCENTRE AVE. RESIDENCES - PDP - 17-09 - REPORTS - RECOMMENDATION/REPORTPlanning, Development and Transportation Services Current Planning City of Fort Collins NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION MEETING PROJECT: Centre Avenue Residences, Modification of Standard for Residential Building Height DATE: January 6, 2009 APPLICANT: VFR Design/Linda Ripley & Jennifer Almstead DEVELOPER: Stan Everitt CITY PLANNER: Steve Olt, 4 Current Planning The applicant/developer request is to allow residential building heights of four (4) stories on the property at the northeast corner of Centre Avenue and Worthington Street. The allowable height on this property is three (3) stories, and the building height standard is set forth in Section 4.27(D)(4)(a) of the City's Land Use Code. The property is in the E, Employment Zone District. * Ultimately the applicant is proposing to submit a Project Development Plan (PDP) for three (3) buildings, each containing 10 dwelling units, on the 2.4 acre site. The target market is for seniors wanting to live in an upscale condominium project in a convenient location close to a variety of services. This PDP, when submitted, will be subject to the City's standard development review process. Present at the meeting were 11 neighbors & interested parties, the applicant & developer, and the City's Project Planner. There were 35 notification letters sent to Affected Property Owners within 800 feet of the property. 281 North College Avenue — P.O. Box 580 — Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 — (970) 221-6750 — FAX (970) 224-6134 T T' • , ®ELICH ASSO IATES Traffic & Transportation Engineering 2272 Glen Haven Drive Loveland, Colorado 80538 Phone: (970) 669-2061 Fax: (970) 669-5034 �71/,/Ar MEMORANDUM TO: Stan Everitt, Everitt Companies Russell Lee, Vaught Frye Ripley Design Inc. City of Fort Collins FROM: Joe/Matt Delich DATE: April 9, 2009 SUBJECT: Centre Avenue Residences Transportation Impact Study (File: 0916ME01) This memorandum addresses the transportation impacts of the proposed Centre Avenue Residences. The Centre Avenue Residences is located in the northeast quadrant of the Centre/Worthington intersection, in Fort Collins. The site location is shown in Figure 1. This site is currently vacant, except for a parking lot. The Centre Avenue Residences will consist of 30 apartment dwelling units. The scope of this study was discussed with the Fort Collins Traffic Operations Engineer. A brief memorandum was requested. The Base Assumptions form is provided in Appendix A. There are sidewalks along developed parcels of land within 0.25 miles of the site. There are bicycle lanes along Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle. The primary streets near the Centre Avenue Residences site are Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle. Centre Avenue is adjacent (south) to the Centre Avenue Residences site. It is an east -west street designated as a two-lane collector street on the Fort Collins Master Street Plan. Currently, it has a two-lane cross section with appropriate auxiliary lanes. At the Centre/Worthington intersection, Centre Avenue has eastbound and westbound left -turn lanes and a through/right-turn lane in each direction. At the Centre/Tolmar Site Access intersection, Centre Avenue has a two-way left -turn lane and a through lane in each direction. The Centre/Worthington and Centre/Tolmar Site Access intersections have stop sign control on Worthington Circle and the Tolmar Site Access, respectively. The posted speed on this section of Centre Avenue is 40 mph. Worthington Circle is adjacent (west) to the Centre Avenue Residences. It has a two-lane cross section and is designated as a local street on the Fort Collins Master Street Plan. At the Centre/Worthington intersection, Worthington Circle has all movements combined into a single lane. However, during traffic counting it was observed that the northbound right -turning vehicles bypassed the northbound left-turn/through vehicles. This intersection was analyzed accordingly. The posted speed on this section of Worthington Circle is 30 mph. Division 3.4, Environmental, Natural and Cultural Standards Section 3.4.1(E) (e) The project shall be designed so that the character of the proposed development in terms of use, density, traffic generation, quality of runoff water, noise, lighting and similar potential development impacts shall minimize the degradation of the ecological character or wildlife use of the affected natural habitats or features. (f) The project shall be designed to integrate with and otherwise preserve existing site topography, including but not limited to such characteristics as steepness of slopes, existing drainage features, rock outcroppings, river .and stream terraces, valley walls, ridgelines:and scenic topographic features. (g) The project shall be designed to enhance the natural ecological characteristics of the site. If existing landscaping within the buffer zone is determined by the decision maker to be incompatible with the purposes of the buffer zone, then the, applicant shall undertake restoration and mitigation measures such as regrading and/or the replanting of native vegetation. (h) The project may be designed to provide appropriate human access to natural habitats and features and their associated buffer zones in order, to. serve,,recreation purposes, provided that such access is compatible with the ecological character or wildlife use of the natural habitat or feature: (i) Fencing associated with the project shall be designed to be compatible with the ecological character and wildlife use of the natural habitat or feature. (2) Development Activities Within the Buffer Zone. (a) No disturbance shall occur within any buffer zone and no person shall. engage. in any activity that will disturb, remove, fill, dredge, clear, destroy or alter any area, including vegetation within natural habitats or features including 'without limitation lakes, ponds, stream corridors and wetlands, except as provided in subsection (c) below. (b) If the development causes any disturbance within the buffer zone, whether by approval of the decision maker or otherwise, the applicant shall undertake restoration and mitigation measures within the buffer zone such as regrading and/or the replanting of native vegetation. The applicant shall undertake mitigation Article 3, Page 68 Supp. 21 Division 3.4, Environmental, Natural and Cultural Standards Section 3.4.1(E) (1)' Buffer Zone Performance. Standards. The decision maker shall determine the buffer zones for each natural habitat or feature contained in the project site. The buffer zones maybe multiple and noncontiguous. The general buffer zone distance is established according to the buffer zone table below, but the decision maker shall reduce or enlarge any portion of the general buffer zone distance, if necessary in order to ensure that the performance standards set forth below are achieved. The buffer zone performance standards are as follows: (a) The project shall be designed to preserve or enhance the ecological character or function and wildlife use of the natural habitat or feature and to minimize or adequately mitigate the foreseeable impacts of development. (b) The project, including, by way of example and not by way of limitation, its fencing, pedestrian/bicycle paths and roadways, shall be designed to preserve or enhance the existence of wildlife movement corridors between natural features, both within and adjacent to the site. (c) The project shall be designed to preserve significant existing trees and other significant existing vegetation on the site. (d) The project shall be designed to protect from adverse impact species utilizing special habitat features such as key raptor habitat features, including nest sites, night roosts and key feeding areas as identified by the Colorado Division of Wildlife or in the Fort Collins Natural Areas Policy Plan (NAPP); key production areas, wintering areas and migratory feeding areas for waterfowl; key use areas for wading birds and shorebirds; key use areas for migrant songbirds; key nesting areas for grassland birds; fox and coyote dens; mule deer winter concentration areas as identified by the Colorado Division of Wildlife or NAPP;'prairie dog colonies over fifty (50) acres in size as included on the Natural Habitats and Features Inventory Map; key areas for rare, migrant or resident butterflies as, identified in the NAPP; areas of high terrestrial or aquatic insect diversity as identified in the NAPP; remnant native prairie habitat; mixed foothill shrubland; foothill ponderosa pine forest; plains cottonwood riparian woodlands; and any wetland greater than one -quarter ('/) acre in size. Article 3, Page 67 Supp. 21 Division 3.4, Environmental, Natural and Cultural Standards Section 3.4.1(D) (e) the:bank, shoreline and.high water mark of any perennial stream or body of water on the site; (f) areas inhabited by. or frequently utilized by Sensitive and Specially Valued.Species;. .. special habitat features; wildlife movement corridors; (i) the general .ecologi1.cal functions provided by the site and its s w. feature; (j) any issues regarding the timing of development -related activities stemming from the ecological character of the area; and (k) any measures needed -to mitigate the projected adverse impacts of th&developinent project on natural habitats and features. (2) Wetland Boundary Delineation. '' In establishing the boundaries of a wetland, the applicant and the Director shall use soil samples, ecological characterization and hydrological evidence, 'to the extent that such are in existence or are regiiested: of and provided by the applicant. The Director may "also utilize the 'standards and guidelines and/or the professional recommendations of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 'Service, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, and/or the Colorado' Division of Wildlife in establishing such boundaries. Wetland boundary'S'elineations shall -be established in accordance with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wetland classification system and shall be identified' in °the submittal documents for the review of the project development plan (if applicable; "or if not"applicable, the most similar development: review) acid prior tocommencement of any construction activities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers standards and guidelines 'shall be`used to identify'tlie boundaries of any "jurisdictional wetland." (E) Establishment' of Buffer Zones Buffer zones surrounding natural habitats and features 'shall be shown on the project development plan for any development that is subject to this Division. The purpose of the buffer zones is to protect the ecological character of the natural habitat or natural feature from the impacts of the ongoing activity associated with the development'. Article 3, Page 66 Supp. 21 Policy ENV-3.3: Water Demand Management The landscape plan for the project will utilize the following xeriscape principles: Plant material with low to moderate water requirements Limited turf areas Effective use of soil amendments An efficient irrigation system Appropriate maintenance PRINCIPLE ED-1: Employment districts will be major employment centers in the community. These districts will also include a variety of complimentary uses to meet the needs of employees, such as business services, convenience retail, lodging, child care, recreation, housing and restaurants. By design, they will encourage non -auto travel, car and van pooling, telecommuting and transit use. Their attractive appearance should allow them to locate adjacent to residential neighborhoods and along primary entryways into the community. Policy ED-1.3 Secondary and supporting uses (f.) Multi family Housing Centre Avenue Residences provides a high density multi family use within the heart of this primary employment district. Allowing residences the ability to walk or bike to work and services. Policy ED-1.5 Walkable Destinations As stated above, the location of the project provides easy access to employment and commercial services. Centre Avenue residences embodies the City's vision for development by locating near many employment opportunities and commercial services. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to working with you during the development review process. Sincerely, Russell Lee VFR Design, Inc. 3 than 2 tenths of a mile from the Market Centre retail area. The project has easily accessible sidewalks internally and along the streets making pedestrian travel a viable alternative to the automobile. PRINCIPLE T-1: The physical organization of the city will be supported by a framework of transportation alternatives that maximizes access and mobility throughout the city, while reducing dependence upon the private automobile. Policy T-1.1 Land Use Patterns The nearest transit stop is at the corner of Research and Centre Avenue. The close proximity to a transit stop permits public transit to become a viable alternative to the automobile. PRINCIPLE T-4: Bicycling will serve as a viable alternative to automobile use for all trip purposes. Policy T-4.1 Bicycle Facilities There are bike lanes in Centre Avenue making biking a viable alternative to the automobile. PRINCIPLE T-5: The City will acknowledge pedestrian travel as a viable transportation mode and elevate it in importance to be in balance with all other modes. Direct pedestrian connections will be provided and encouraged from place of residence to transit, schools, activity centers, work and public facilities. Policy T-5.1 Land Use Policy T-5.2 Connections Centre Ave Residences is adjacent to primary employment and they are less than 2 tenths of a mile from the Market Centre retail area. The project has easily accessible sidewalks internally and along the streets making pedestrian travel a viable alternative to the automobile. PRINCIPLE HSG-1: A variety of housing types and densities will be available throughout the urban area for all income levels. Policy HSG-1.1 Land Use Pattern. Although not intended to be deed restricted, Centre Avenue Residences provides a place designed around the needs of mature individuals. The project is located in an active centrally located area of the City adjacent to many services. PRINCIPLE ENV-2: The City will reduce total motor vehicle emissions of high priority pollutants by focusing on both technology and behavior. Policy ENV-2.1: Actions on Vehicle Miles Traveled. The project is located within walking distance to recreation, shopping and transit stops. PRINCIPLE ENV-3: Drinking water provided by the City's Water Utility will meet or exceed customer expectations for quality, quantity and reliability. Water Conservation will be strongly encouraged. 2 architecture ■ land planning ■ landscape architecture ■ interior design April 15, 2009 Mr. Steve Olt City of Fort Collins Planning Department 281 North College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80522 RE: Planning Objectives for Centre Avenue Residences PDP Proiect Description Centre Avenue Residences is located in the Center for Advanced Technology (CAT) master planned development. The 2.4-acre site is located on the northeast corner of Centre Avenue and Worthington Drive. The proposed multi -family development has three (3) four-story buildings consisting of 10 dwelling units per building, 30 dwelling units total and a density of 12.5 d.u. per acre. The target market is for mature adults desiring to live in an upscale condominium project designed specifically with these residents in mind, located in a convenient location close to a variety of services. The site is located adjacent to Mercer Ditch. The project provides an ample wildlife corridor along the ditch utilizing native shrub species and native grasses. Parking is provided in underground garages and surface parking. The site is accessed from existing curb cuts along Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle. City Plan Principles and Policies achieved by The Centre Avenue Residences project PRINCIPLE LU-1: Growth within the city will promote a compact development pattern within a well-defined boundary. Policy LU-1.1 Compact Urban Form Centre Ave Residences is located in the heart of the Centre for Advanced Technology. The residences will have immediate access to primary employment and they are less VAUGHT FRYE RIPLEY DESIGN INC. 401 W. Mountain Ave., Suite 200 ■ Fort Collins, CO 80521 ■ tel. 970.224.1191 ■ fax 970.224.1662 ■ www.vfrdesigninc.com Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan: In exploring the fire access plaza doubling as a 'pick-up drop-off only' route, we feel a better design for the plaza was created in the process. Therefore the rendering reflects the revised central space, which works well regardless of what uses will be acceptable on it. Option A would keep it exclusively as a fire access route, same as before, while Option B would also allow occasional 'pick-up drop off uses, a beneficial service in a community targeted toward an older population. Option B was designed with safety considerations in mind, referencing elements suggested in Section 3.2.2(C) of the Fort Collins Land Use Code. While the daily traffic through this one-way lane should be minimal, steps were taken to minimize potential hazards for the pedestrian. The entire plaza is concrete paving, distinguishing it from the asphalt parking lot so that it is clear that this isn't a drive lane for thru traffic. In addition, the concrete plaza will be made of 2 different shades of colored concrete. A 4' band will be the same grey color as all pedestrian walks in the site, while an 8' colored concrete band would guide the occasional automobile. A pull of area near the center of the plaza not only creates an area of refuge for pedestrians, but it provides an area for a car to pull off to pick someone up near all main entrances without blocking the 12' fire access lane. Additionally, signage will indicate the lane is to only be used for 'pick-up drop-off' purposes and emergency access. I hope this explains our design intent clearly. Please let us know if there are further questions, and whether Option B looks like something that can be supported by staff. Thanks, brent cooper VAUGHT FRYE RIPLEY Design Inc. 401 W. Mountain Ave., Suite 200 Fort Collins, CO 80521 let. 970.224.1191, ext. 122 fax. 970.224.1662 brent.cooper@vfrdesigninc.com Z J G J W LL W / G7 G —m ROLLAND MOORS DR ❑ Larmer_County_ eINo. 2 AZ- 1 Project/10 \ s2 Location / \ CD �N —CENTRE-AVE / P oy L _V O U ❑ / ❑ ❑ ❑❑ Uj ❑ ❑ ❑ ° o Z W DRAKE RD a O17❑� I N #17-09 Centre Avenue Residences PDP A1 inch equals 300 feet 4121109 As proposed, the plaza extending for approximately 150' between 2 internal surface parking areas would be 12' wide, with a semi -circular pull -off area near the center of the plaza that would add about 10' of width as a refuge for pedestrians and a place for an occasional vehicle to park while picking up or dropping off residents of the project. This would allow for someone to drive through the site from Centre Avenue to Worthington Circle to pick up and drop off residents at a central location to all 3 buildings. As previously stated by the applicant, the entire plaza will be concrete paving, distinguishing it from the asphalt parking areas so that it is clear that this isn't a drive lane for thru traffic. In addition, the concrete plaza will be made of 2 different shades of colored concrete. A 4' wide band will be the same grey color as all pedestrian walks in the site, while an 8' wide concrete band of a different color would guide the occasional automobile through the plaza from one parking area to the other. Additionally, signage will indicate the lane is to only be used for limited 'pick-up, drop-off purposes and emergency access. Sufficient lighting will be provided to ensure that the plaza will be a safe environment for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers both day and night. Therefore, based on the design of the plaza that includes: * special paving/pavement markings and color; * refuge area; * signage; and * lighting; staff has determined that Section 3.2.2(C)(1) Safety Considerations of the Land Use Code has been satisfied as it relates to the proposed pedestrian/emergency access/vehicle plaza as part of the Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan. PC mcity of Fort Collml ns MEMORANDUM Date: June 18, 2009 To: Planning & Zoning Board Members Planning, Development and Transportation Services Current Planning 281 North College Ave. P.O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 970.221.6750 970.224.6134 - fax fcgov. com/currentplanning From: Stephen Olt, Current Planning Re: Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09, as it relates to the requirements set forth in Section 3.2.2(C)(1) Safety Considerations of the Land Use Code. This memorandum becomes part of the City staff recommendation to the Planning & Zoning Board for the Board's deliberation of the Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan on Thursday, June 18, 2009. The applicant is requesting that the internal pedestrian/fire access plaza between the 3 buildings double as a'pick-up, drop-off only' route, which would be a beneficial service in a residential community targeted toward an older population. The plaza has been designed with safety considerations in mind, referencing elements suggested in Section 3.2.2(C) of the Fort Collins Land Use Code. While the daily traffic through this one-way lane should be minimal, steps were taken to minimize potential hazards for the pedestrian. The entire plaza is concrete paving, distinguishing it from the asphalt parking lot so that it is clear that this isn't a drive lane for thru traffic. In addition, the concrete plaza will be made of 2 different shades of colored concrete. A 4' band will be the same grey color as all pedestrian walks in the site, while an 8' colored concrete band would guide the occasional automobile. A pull -off area near the center of the plaza not only creates an area of refuge for pedestrians, but it provides an area for a car to pull off to pick someone up near all main entrances without blocking the 12' fire access lane. Additionally, signage.will indicate the lane is to only be used for'pick-up, drop-off purposes and emergency access. Section 3.2.2(C)(1) Safety Considerations states that "To the maximum extent feasible, pedestrians shall be separated from vehicles and bicycles". Where complete separation of pedestrians and vehicles and bicycles is not possible, potential hazards shall be minimized by the use of techniques such as special paving, raised surfaces, pavement markings, signs or striping, bollards, median refuge areas, traffic calming measures, landscaping, lighting or other means to clearly delineate pedestrian areas, for both day and night use. Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 10 2. The Project Development Plan complies with applicable General Development Standards contained in ARTICLE 3 of the Land Use Code. 3. The Project Development Plan complies with applicable Land Use and Development Standards contained in ARTICLE 4, Division 4.27 of the Land Use Code, with the following exception: the standard located in Section 4.27.3(D)(4)(a), which limits the height of residential buildings in the E District to 3 stories. The Planning & Zoning Board reviewed and approved a modification to the standard on January 15, 2009, to allow the buildings to be 4 stories in height. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09. Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 9 Transportation Level of Service manual for the following modes of travel: motor vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian. The PDP provides adequate facilities for these modes of travel and, therefore, this section is satisfied. 2. Section 3.6.4(C), Transportation Impact Study This section states that in order to identify those facilities that are necessary in order to comply with these standards, development plans may be required to include the submittal of a Transportation Impact Study, to be approved by the Traffic Engineer, consistent with the Transportation Impact Study guidelines as established in Chapter 4 of the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards (LCUASS). A Traffic Impact Study for the Centre Avenue Residences, PDP was submitted to the City for review. The Traffic Engineer has reviewed the study and determined that it is consistent with and satisfies the guidelines established in LCUASS. 4. NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION MEETING The Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan contains a proposed land use that is permitted as Type 2 use, subject to a Planning & Zoning Board review, in the E, Employment District. The proposal is for three (3) 4-story residential buildings on a 2.4 acre site located at the northeast corner of Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle. A neighborhood meeting is required for a Type 2 use and a meeting was held on January 6, 2009. There were 11 affected property owners and interested parties present at the meeting, along with the developer, the developer's consultants, and the City's project planner. There were no significant concerns expressed regarding the proposed addition of a 4m story to each of the buildings. The notes taken at the neighborhood meeting are attached to the staff report. FINDINGS OF FACT/CONCLUSIONS After reviewing the Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan, staff makes the following findings of fact and conclusions: 1. The proposed land use is permitted in the E, Employment District. Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 8 buildings, which was ultimately approved by the Planning & Zoning Board on January 15, 2009. 2. Section 3.5.2, Residential Building Standards a. Section 3.5.2(C) Relationship of Dwellings to Streets and Parking, Subsection 3.5.2(C)(1) Orientation to a Connecting Walkway sets forth the requirement that every front fagade with a primary entrance to a dwelling unit shall face the adjacent to the extent reasonably feasible. Every front fagade with a primary entrance to a dwelling unit shall face a connecting walkway with no primary entrance more than 200' from a street sidewalk. Subsection 3.5.2(C)(2) Street -Facing Facades sets forth the requirement that every building containing 4 or more dwelling units shall have at least 1 building entry or doorway facing any adjacent street that is smaller than a full arterial of has on -street parking. All 3 new residential buildings in this PDP have front facades and/or primary entrances that face either Centre Avenue, a collector street, or Worthington Circle, a local street. Each building has multiple building entrances within 150' of either street that provide direct pedestrian access to the public sidewalks without having to cross any driveways or parking areas. The PDP complies with the requirements set forth in this section. b. Section 3.5.2(D), Residential Building Setbacks, Lot Width and Size, Subsection 3.5.2(D)(2) Setback from Nonarterial Streets sets forth every residential building be set back a minimum of 15' from the right-of-way of a nonarterial street. Both Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle are nonarterial streets and all 3 buildings will be set back a distance of 20' to 85' from either street. The PDP complies with the requirement set forth in this section. E. Division 3.6, Transportation and Circulation 1. Section 3.6.4(B), General Standard This section states that all development plans shall adequately provide vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle facilities necessary to maintain the adopted transportation Level of Service standards contained in Part 11 of the City of Fort Collins Multi -modal Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 7 similar proportions in building mass, similar relationships to streets, and the use of building materials and colors that currently exist in the Centre for Advanced Technology. b. The proposal satisfies the criteria set forth in Section 3.5.1(C) Building Size, Height, Bulk, Mass, Scale. The new residential buildings in this PDP will generally have a smaller building footprint than many surrounding buildings, although they will be 1 story higher than many. There is significant building articulation to the massing, both in height and how the buildings are to be compartmentalized. These elements of the plan were considered at the time the requested modification of standard to allow the one additional story was reviewed by staff and approved by the Planning & Zoning Board. c. The proposal satisfies Section 3.5.1(D) Privacy Considerations. These buildings are separated from existing buildings on the west and south by streets and from the existing office building to the east by a distance of 40' to 75'. There are no privacy issues associated with this new residential development. d. The proposal satisfies the criteria set forth in Section 3.5.1(E) Building Materials. The materials for the new residential buildings in this PDP will be predominantly synthetic stone veneer and synthetic stucco for siding materials, and asphalt shingles as a roofing material. These are consistent with materials used on existing buildings in the surrounding area. e. The proposal satisfies the criteria set forth in Section 3.5.1(F) Building Color. The colors of the stone veneer and stucco siding and asphalt shingles will be fully determined with the Final Plan review. They will be consistent with colors used on existing buildings in the surrounding area. e. Section 3.5.1(G) Building Height Review sets forth the requirement that all buildings or structures in excess of 40' in height shall be subject to special review for impacts on views, light & shadow, privacy, and neighborhood scale as they relate to the surrounding neighborhood. This review was done with the request for the one additional story on the proposed residential Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 6 The proposal complies with the general plat requirements as set forth in this section. 2. Section 3.3.5, Engineering Design Standards The proposal complies with the design standards, requirements, and specifications for the services as set forth in this section. C. Division 3.4, Environmental 1. Section 3.4.1, Natural Habitats and Features The proposal satisfies the buffer zone requirements set forth in Section 3.4.1(E). A relatively small portion of Building One will encroach into the 50' ditch setback from the New Mercer Canal. However, the average setback is greater than 50' and allows for the wildlife corridor to continue functioning efficiently. The quantitative 50' buffer yields a total buffer area of approximately 23,500 square feet. By applying the quantitative 50' buffer zone there would be a loss of 2% (450 square feet) of the buffer zone. Redefining the buffer zone to an Available Wildlife Corridor line around a portion of Building One yields a buffer zone with an average of 50' width and approximately 26,200 square feet, which provides for an additional 10% of buffer zone. This satisfies the criteria set forth in Section 3.4.1(E)(1) Buffer Zone Performance Standards that authorizes the decision maker to reduce or enlarge any portion of the general buffer zone distance, if necessary in order to ensure that the performance standards set forth in this section are achieved. A copy of the performance standards is attached to this staff report. D. Division 3.5, Building Standards 1. Section 3.5.1, Building and Project Compatibility a. The proposal satisfies the criteria set forth in Section 3.5.1(B) Architectural Character. This new development will occur within a developed office, industrial, retail, and residential community. There are existing 1, 2, and 3-story buildings surrounding this site, which is proposing 4-story residential buildings. The footprints for these new buildings will be smaller than the footprints for the majority of the existing buildings. Compatibility will be achieved through comparable roof lines, Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 5 in the parkways along Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle; and, in one location, ornamental trees are provided at a 15' spacing in the parkway along Centre Avenue. c. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.1(E)(4)(a) in that trees are provided at a ratio of at least 1 tree per 25 lineal feet along Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle, being public streets. d. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.1(E)(4)(b) in that the on - site parking areas will be screened from Worthington Circle to the west and Centre Avenue to the south with shrub plantings that will block at least 75% of the vehicle headlights and extend along at least 70% of the street frontage along the parking areas. e. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.1(E)(5) in that it provides at least 6% interior landscaping in the parking areas (containing less than 100 parking spaces), satisfying the minimum requirement. 2. Section 3.2.2, Access, Circulation and Parking a. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.2(C)(4)(a) in that it provides secure and conveniently located bicycle parking in the amount of 7.8% of the total number of automobile parking spaces on -site, satisfying the minimum requirement of 5%. b. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.2(C)(5) in that it provides direct, safe, and continuous walkways and bicycle connections to major pedestrian and bicycle destinations in the surrounding area. c. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.2(D) in that it provides for safe, convenient, and efficient bicycle, pedestrian, and vehicular movement to and through the site. Vehicular access will occur via a curb cut from Centre Avenue to the parking areas and a curb cut from Worthington Circle to the parking areas. B. Division 3.3, Engineering Standards 1. Section 3.3.1, Plat Standards Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 4 A. Section 4.27(D) Land Use Standards 1. Section 4.27(D)(2) Secondary Uses a. Section 4.27(D)(2)(d) identifies residential uses (except mixed - use dwellings) as Secondary Uses in the E District. As such they shall occupy no more than 25% of the total gross area of the development plan. In this case the Centre Avenue Residences, PDP is being evaluated as part of the Centre for Advanced Technology, Overall Development Plan (ODP). This PDP, being one of several secondary use plans (existing and proposed) within the ODP, does not cause the amount of secondary uses on development plan to exceed the allowable 25%. Therefore, the PDP is in compliance with this section. 2. Section 4.27(D)(4) Dimensional Standards a. Section 4.27(D)(4)(a) sets forth the requirement that the maximum height for residential buildings shall be three (3) stories. The applicant previously submitted a request for a modification of this standard to allow the residential buildings in the Centre Avenue Residences, PDP to be four (4) stories in height. On January 15, 2009 the Planning & Zoning Board approved the request. Therefore, the PDP is in compliance with this section. 3. ARTICLE 3 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS of the Land Use Code The Project Development Plan complies with all applicable General Development Standards as follows: A. Division 3.2, Site Planning and Design Standards 1. Section 3.2.1, Landscaping and Tree Protection a. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.1(D)(1)(c) in that it provides "full tree stocking" within 50' of the proposed residential buildings, according to the standards set forth in this section. b. The proposal complies with Section 3.2.1(D)(2)(a) in that canopy shade (street) trees are provided at a 35' - 40' spacing Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 3 "Residential uses, and public or private community services, including day care centers, are to be allowed as alternative land uses in all parcels." The Planning & Zoning Board, on January 15, 2009, approved a request for a modification of the standard located in Section 4.27.3(D)(4)(a), which limits the height of residential buildings in the E, Employment District to 3 stories. The approval allows the buildings to be 4 stories in height. The property has not, to date, been subdivided and platted. 2. DIVISION 4.27 EMPLOYMENT DISTRICT of the Land Use Code Multi -family dwellings are permitted in the E, Employment District, subject to a Planning & Zoning Board review. The purpose of the E District is: Intended to provide locations for a variety of workplaces including light industrial uses, research and development activities, offices and institutions. This District also is intended to accommodate secondary uses that complement or support the primary workplace uses, such as hotels, restaurants, convenience shopping, child care and housing. Additionally, the Employment District is intended to encourage the development of planned office and business parks; to promote excellence in the design and construction of buildings, outdoor spaces, transportation facilities and streetscapes; to direct the development of workplaces consistent with the availability of public facilities and services; and to continue the vitality and quality of life in adjacent residential neighborhoods. This proposal complies with the purpose of the E District as it is a secondary use (residential) that complements the primary workplace uses in the Centre for Advanced Technology, a planned and developed business, office, research, and retail park. Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 June 18, 2009 Planning and Zoning Board Hearing Page 2 Environmental, Natural Area, Recreational and Cultural Resource Protection Standards, Division 3.5 - Building Standards, and Division 3.6 - Transportation and Circulation of ARTICLE 3 - GENERAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS; and district standards located in ARTICLE 4 - DISTRICT STANDARDS, Division 4.27 E, Employment Zoning District, with the following exception: the standard located in Section 4.27.3(13)(4)(a), which limits the height of residential buildings in the E District to 3 stories. The Planning & Zoning Board reviewed and approved a modification to the standard on January 15, 2009, to allow the buildings to be 4 stories in height. Multi -family dwellings are permitted in the E, Employment District, subject to a Planning & Zoning Board review. COMMENTS: BACKGROUND The surrounding zoning and land uses are as follows N: E; New Mercer Ditch; vacant land E: E; existing office building (Pawnee Leasing Corp.) S: E, NC;existing office/industrial (Tolmar); health care facilities (Columbine Health Systems) W: E, NC;existing health care facilities (Columbine Health Systems) The property was annexed as part of the Fourth College Annexation in September, 1965. The property has been included on 5 different Overall Development Plans/Master Plans for the Centre for Advanced Technology between 1985 and 1999. The most current Overall Development Plan (ODP) of record is the Minor Amendment to the Amended ODP for the Centre for Advanced Technology, dated January 21, 1999. The subject property is part of Parcel Q, a 4.1 acre parcel shown for Industrial/Office uses. However, General Note #9 on this plan states: F Collins -ITEM NO MEETING DATE (o 1,V cI STAFF e✓� Dl PLANNING & ZONING BOARD PROJECT: Centre Avenue Residences, Project Development Plan - #17-09 APPLICANT: VFR Design, Inc. c/o Linda Ripley 401 West Mountain Avenue, Suite 200 Fort Collins, CO. 80521 OWNER: Everitt Companies c/o Stan Everitt 3003 East Harmony Road Fort Collins, CO. 80528 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a request for a multi -family residential project containing 30 dwelling units in 3 buildings on 2.4 acres. There will be 10 units per building and each building will be 4 stories (60'-5") in height. The resulting density is 12.5 dwelling units per acre. A total of 64 on -site parking spaces will be provided in underground garages (48) and on surface parking areas (16). The New Mercer Ditch runs along the north side of the property, providing a wildlife corridor in that location. The property is located at the northeast corner of Centre Avenue and Worthington Circle in the 7th Filing of the Centre for Advanced Technology. Vehicular access to the site will be from both streets. The property is in the E, Employment Zoning District. RECOMMENDATION: Approval EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This Project Development Plan (PDP) complies with the following applicable requirements of the Land Use Code L( UC), more specifically: the process located in Division 2.2 - Common Development Review Procedures for Development Applications of ARTICLE 2 - ADMINISTRATION; standards located in Division 3.2 - Site Planning and Design Standards, Division 3.3 - Engineering Standards, Division 3.4 - Current Planning 281 N College Av PO Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 fcgov.com/currentplanning 970.221.6750