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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEARS ODP - 32-00 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - PLANNING OBJECTIVESJ B Approximately two years following approval 0.52 Acres C Approximately three years following approval 0.30 Acres D Approximately four years following approval 0.44 Acres E Approximately five years following approval 0.54 Acres F Approximately six years following approval 1.68 Acres If option "B" is developed A'-C' Following approval 2.45 Acres D'-E'-F' Within two years of construction of A'-C' 1.32 Acres All public street improvements will be developed as a part of phase one. The Pine Street extension will be built with phase E & F. Public plaza and pedestrian spine will be developed with B & C. Sincerely, Mikal Torgerson M. Torgerson Architects W 143.26 FT, N 48 49' 51" W 250 FT, S 41 10' 51" W 66.69 FT, N 48 49' 9" W 75 FT, N 41 10' 51" E 160.E FT TPOB LESS R/R ROW DESC IN 2290-740 William C Sears IMPS ONLY ON POR BLK 7, FTC, DESC: BEG AT PT ON SERLY LN SD BLK 7 WH BEARS N 41 10' S1" E 106.74 FT FROM MOSTSRLY COR SD BLK, SD PT BEING 35 FT DIS NERLY FROM C/L RR, TH N 48 49' 51" W 250 FT, N 41 10' 51" E 150 FT, S 48 49' 51" E 250 FT TO PT ON SERLY LN SD BLK, TH S 41 10' 51" W 150 FT TPOB NORTHERN COLO FEEDERS SUPPLY, INC IMPS ON U P RR R/W, BLK 7, FTC Wayne K Schrader A tract of land located in the Northwest Quarter of Section 12,Township 7 North, Range 69 West of the 6th P.M., City of Fort Collins, County of Larimer, State of Colorado, which considering the West line of said Northwest Quarter as bearing N 00 00'00" E and with all bearings contained herein relative thereto is more particularly described by the following boundary lines: Commencing at the Northwest Corner of Section 12; thence S 14 19'18" E 1800.70 feet to the True Point of Beginning, said point being the most Northeasterly corner of that parcel of land deeded to Public Service Company of Colorado on June 9, 1975, said point also being on the Southerly right-of-way line of Willow Street; thence along said Southerly right-of-way line S 48 50'34" E 382.56 feet; thence leaving said right-of-way line S 41 09'26" W 284.27 feet; thence 469.36 feet along the arc of a non -tangent curve to the right having a radius of 644.69 feet and a central angle 41 42'48" and a long chord which bears N 24 42'36" W 459.06 feet; thence N 86 08'48" E 3.70 feet; thence S 69 18'34" E 55.25 feet; thence N 27 36'00" E 76.79 feet more or less to the True Point of Beginning. Said parcel contains 2.040 acres more or less and is subject to all restrictions, easements or rights -of -way now existing or in use. (g) The proposed ODP contains a public plaza and pedestrian spine that will be owned and maintained by a future HOA composed of building owners with uses fronting these amenities. Any private open space will be owned and maintained by the adjacent building owners. (h) This ODP will be phased as follows: A Following approval. 1.37 Acres 4b The site is relatively flat, therefore meeting ADA requirements will not be a problem. 4c All required easements will be dealt with in the PDP stage. 5a We are not aware of any natural features on the subject property. 6 We anticipate that all of the buildings within this ODP will be fire sprinklered. Any further specific Fire Department issues will be dealt with at the PDP stage. 7&8 Comments given by Water/Wastewater and Light and Power have either been addressed in the attached engineering documents or will be addressed in future PDP submittals. 9 Most of the current planning department comments are oriented more toward PDP issues than ODP design issues. This is primarily due to the focus that was given to the "Sears Building" in particular in the conceptual review. We will further address these comments/ issues in future PDP submittals. 11 We have had several coordination meetings with the Advanced Planning department as well as with the Historic Preservation department regarding the structures within this ODP. As mentioned above, we do not feel that the Sears Trostel Lumber Yard is subject to Historic Preservation review as the structure can only be construed to be eligible for historic designation if one assumes that any potentially contributing structure to a potential district is a historic resource that must be protected under the code. As mentioned above, we feel that this is a faulty interpretation of the City Code. We do however recognize that the Feed Store on the corner of Linden and Willow is an eligible structure and intend to protect the resource as provided for in the City Code. (f) Legal Descriptions NORTHERN COLO FEEDERS INC POR OF BLKS 6 & 7, FTC, & PT OF NW 1/4 12-7-69 DESC AS COM AT NW COR SD SEC, TH S 1740.4 FT, S 69 9' 35" E 102.21 FT, S 41 10- 51" W 7.96 FT, S 48 49' 9" E 50 FT,S 69 9' 35" E 179.1 FT, S 48 49' 9" E 182.07 FT, N 41 10' 51" E 67.49 FT, S 69 9' 35" E 203.76 FT, TH SERLY ALG ARC OF CUR TO R HAV C/A 1 50' 1" & RAD 1124.7 FT & ARC 35.99 FT, L/C BEARS S 68 14' 35" E 35.99 FT TO PT ON TANG CUR, SD PT BEING TPOB, TH SERLY ALG ARD OF CUR TO R-HAV C/A 9 11' 39" & RAD 1124.7 FT & ARC 180.48FT, UC BEARS S 62 43' 44" E 180.28 FT, TH N 41 10' 51"E 6.37 FT, S 48 49' 9" E 150 FT, S 41 10' 51" 4.13(D)(4)(a) seems not to apply to this project and 4.13(D)(4)(b) (which states "Walls, fences and planters shall be designed to match or be consistent with the quality of materials, the style and colors of nearby buildings. Brick, stone or other masonry may be required for walls or fence columns.") seems to apply more to the PDP than this ODP, however we do intend to comply with this provision in the code. 1g All buildings within this ODP will comply with the build -to -line requirement. 1 h This ODP and all subsequent PDPs will comply with all applicable General Development Standards as set forth in Article 3 of the Land Use Code. 2c The site is still being shown to be in a shallow floodplain. This is primarily due to the fact that the remapping that is being done as a part of the Howes Street Outfall project is not complete yet. It is expected that this remapping will remove this entire site from the shallow floodplain. 2b,d &e are addressed in our submitted engineering documents. 3c A TIS is included in this submittal. 3d Full roadway improvements along Linden, Willow, and Pine adjacent to our project will be shown on our engineering documents. 3f Utility easements adjacent to rights -of -way will be shown on subsequent PDP submittals. 3g All access roads shall be designed and improved to City Standards. 3h The only easement that we anticipate being needed for this project is for the Pine Street extension. The applicant will acquire these easements as a part of the PDP submittal. 3i We have met with Mike Herzig of the Engineering Department regarding the rail crossing for Pine Street. It appears that this will be quite a contentious issue with the railroad, but we feel that the positives outweigh the negatives and intend to pursue the railroad crossing. 4a A TIS is included with this application. (VII) We do not anticipate any land use conflicts within the ODP once it is completely developed, as all of the uses are quite compatible. We will, however, be developing this project in an area that is surrounded by some existing industrial uses. In addition, the project is situated immediately adjacent to a railroad track. We have retained an acoustic engineer to assist us in building design in order to mitigate any railroad or industrial noise's impact on our buildings. There are several retail and residential uses adjacent to the site. We do not anticipate any conflicts between these uses and our project. (e) A conceptual review was held on June 12, 2000. 1 d The Zoning Department commented that the project would need to comply with Section 4.13(D)(2) it is assumed that they specifically meant parts (a) and (b): (a) Redevelopment shall maintain the existing block grid system of streets and alleys. To the extent reasonably feasible, the system shall be augmented with additional connections, including new walkway spines in substitution of streets and/or alleys. The proposed ODP provides for a pedestrian spine and plaza between Linden and the new extension of pine. It also furthers the goal of maintaining and expanding the existing block grid system by providing for the extension of Pine Street. (b) Redevelopment activity along the Linden Street frontage shall be designed to provide for the extension of the streetscape improvements found between Walnut Street and Jefferson Street, including on -street parking defined by landscaped curb extensions, wide sidewalks with trees in cutouts and tree grates, and pedestrian light fixtures. Specific design details are subject to approval by the City Engineer in accordance with the design criteria for streets. The ODP does not address the specific nature of this criteria, but we do intend to extend the character of Linden Street as developed between Walnut and Jefferson while still maintaining a distinct character of this separate district. le Zoning also commented that we need to comply with the limitations outlined in Section 4.13(D)(3)Buildings(c)Massing and Placement & (d) Character and Image As was mentioned above, we do intend to comply with these items. The building height and massing proposed in this ODP steps down as it approaches the streetscape as well as the river. Some of the architectural issues will be addressed in further detail at the PDP stage. 1f Zoning mentioned the need to comply with 4.13(D)(4) Site Design Old Town Fort Collins. It is our sincere hope that this project will set the stage for and encourage not only the redevelopment of the subject site, but the redevelopment of the entire Old Town River Corridor area. The planning of the Sears ODP was driven by many of the existing site design constraints such as utilities, railroads, existing roads and historic structures. A great deal of thought was given to the pedestrian experience throughout the project. This drove the need for the internal pedestrian access spine and plaza. It is our desire to make this ODP as pedestrian friendly as possible, so we decided to provide a single central parking area served by the extension of Pine Street. It was our feeling that extending Pine Street would not only further the rectilinear grid street pattern of the Old Town area, but also encourage the use of Pine Street for vehicular circulation thereby reducing the number of vehicles on Linden Street making it that much more pedestrian friendly. The ODP is divided into two different options. Option "A" shows the ODP as developed with several mixed use buildings. There is a fair chance, however, that a large museum/Imax theater user will develop a portion of the site for their use. The Museum use is fairly large, and would therefore displace several of the mixed use buildings. This option is shown as Option "B" on the attached ODP. (V) No formal neighborhood meeting has been held relative to this project. There have been several neighborhood meetings held to discuss this project and the redevelopment of this district as a whole, but these meetings were not sponsored by the city and advertised as required by the code. We do intend to attend a city sponsored neighborhood meeting in the future. We do not anticipate any major issues. The only concerns that were voiced relative to our ODP were related to truck traffic. Most of the neighboring property owners realize that the area will be redeveloped in the future and with a few exceptions they seem to welcome this. They have voiced some concerns about how our project and any future redevelopment might impact their industrial uses during this transition before they have a chance to be relocated. In particular, they expressed concern about street improvements that might impact their ability to maneuver tractor trailer rigs as they currently do on the adjacent streets in question. The proposed ODP should do nothing to affect how they use the streets. (VI) The project is now known as the Sears ODP. It was previously known as the Sears Trostel ODP. The name was changed to avoid any confusion with the Sears Trostel Lumber yard which will continue business under that name in another location. criteria. 2. Parking lots. Buildings shall be sited so that any new parking lots and vehicle use areas are located in either.' (1) interior block locations between buildings that face the street and buildings that face the River, or (2) side yards. The will be one main parking lot/structure developed to serve all of the buildings in the ODP. This is designed to be tucked behind the proposed structures to the extent possible, however it will still either front Willow or the new Pine. It is our intent to develop this structure in a similar way to that of the new Mason Street parking structure where we would front retail spaced on the streetfront with parking behind and above. (II) The ODP as proposed provides for a pedestrian plaza and circulation spine to be developed between Linden and the new extension of Pine Street. This plaza and spine will be predominantly hardscaped, but will include tree wells and landscaped planters similar to Old Town Square. The streetscape along Linden will provide for the extension of the streetscape improvements found between Walnut Street and Jefferson Street, including on -street parking defined by landscaped curb extensions, wide sidewalks with trees in cutouts and tree grates, and pedestrian light fixtures. As was mentioned earlier, this ODP does not adjoin or contain any known wetlands or natural areas. (III) The number of employees for each use is estimated as follows: If option "A" is developed A. 200 employees B. 13 employees C. 28 employees D. 68 employees E. 44 employees F. 10 employees If option "B" is developed A'-C' 75 employees D'-E'-F' 10 employees (IV) This redevelopment project is intended to do for the Old Town River Corridor, what the Old Town Square redevelopment project did for pedestrian -oriented streetfronts and, lively outdoor spaces. This project provides for the first true redevelopment in the Cache La Poudre corridor. This ODP does provide for somewhat intensive redevelopment of housing and businesses that would complement Downtown. As mentioned before, we do intend to design the architecture and site plans to draw from and complement the historic origin of Fort Collins. If the Museum/[max option is developed, it would clearly provide for the expansion of cultural opportunities in the downtown area. This ODP does provide for a master plan that would extend the positive characteristics of Downtown by providing for the extension of Pine Street, and will develop a lively plaza and continue the pedestrian -oriented streetfronts. (2) Street Connections. (a) Redevelopment shall maintain the existing block grid system of streets and alleys. To the extent reasonably feasible, the system shall be augmented with additional connections, including new walkway spines in substitution of streets and/or alleys. The proposed ODP provides for a pedestrian spine and plaza between Linden and the new extension of pine. It also furthers the goal of maintaining and expanding the existing block grid system by providing for the extension of Pine Street. (b) Redevelopment activity along the Linden Street frontage shall be designed to provide for the extension of the streetscape improvements found between Walnut Street and Jefferson Street, including on -street parking defined by landscaped curb extensions, wide sidewalks with trees in cutouts and tree grates, and pedestrian light fixtures. Specific design details are subject to approval by the City Engineer in accordance with the design criteria for streets. The ODP does not address the specific nature of this criteria, but we do intend to extend the character of Linden Street as developed between Walnut and Jefferson while still maintaining a distinct character of this separate district. (c) Massing and Placement. 1. Height/Mass. Multiple story buildings of up to five (5) stories are permitted; however, massing shall be terraced back from the River and from streets as follows: (1) buildings or parts of buildings shall step down to one (1) story adjacent to the River landscape frontage; and (2) buildings or parts of buildings shall step down to three (3) stories or less adjacent to any street frontage. This ODP proposes one 5 story building which will be designed to have massing step down to the street front so that the adjacent street facade will be that of a three story building. The heights of the proposed buildings do step down as they go toward the river as provided for in this anticipated that the design of the sites as well as the buildings will be sensitive to the historic character of Old Town while still promoting innovative design. The buildings will all be built of quality materials characteristic of this Old Town District. Section 1.2.2 (K) fostering a more rational pattern of relationship among residential, business and industrial uses for the mutual benefit of all. We believe that mixing business and residential uses results in a more rational pattern of development by increasing the vitality of the district and decreasing the dependency on the automobile for commuting purposes. Section 1.2.2 (L) encouraging the development of vacant properties within established areas. While portions of this ODP are occupied by several buildings, they are generally of poor design and construction, with the exception of the historic feed store and the new service station, and these buildings are expected to stay. The majority of the site, however, is vacant property used primarily for storage of industrial materials. Section 1.2.2 (M) ensuring that development proposals are sensitive to the character of existing neighborhoods. As mentioned before, we recognize that we are redeveloping in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins. We anticipate that the design of sites and buildings will be very sensitive to the character of the existing neighborhoods giving particular attention to massing, proportioning, building details, and materials. Section 1.2.2 (N) ensuring that development proposals are sensitive to natural areas and features. This project does not contain nor is it adjacent to any known natural areas and features. It is our belief, however, that it will encourage the use of some of the nearby natural areas. Division 4.13 River Downtown Redevelopment District (R-D-R) (A) Purpose. The River Downtown Redevelopment District is intended to reestablish the linkage between Old Town and the River through redevelopment in the Cache La Poudre River (the "River') corridor. This District offers opportunities for more intensive redevelopment of housing, businesses and workplaces to complement Downtown. Improvements should highlight the historic origin of Fort Collins and the unique relationship of the waterway and railways to the urban environment as well as expand cultural opportunities in the Downtown area. Any significant redevelopment should be designed as part of a master plan for the applicable group of contiguous properties. Redevelopment will extend the positive characteristics of Downtown such as the pattern of blocks, The proposed ODP proposes several infill mixed use projects that could only be characterized as innovative in comparison to traditional development in the city of Fort Collins. In addition, this project provides for the renewal of a rather run down and poorly maintained industrial district in the heart of Fort Collins. Section 1.2.2 (C) fostering the safe, efficient and economic use of the land, the city's transportation infrastructure, and other public facilities and services. This project provides for the redevelopment of an "infill" site in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins. It is widely recognized by planning professionals that this type of high density, infill development maximizes the efficient and economic use of the land, city transportation infrastructure and other public facilities and services. Section 1.2.2 (E) avoiding the inappropriate development of lands and providing for adequate drainage and reduction of flood damage. The subject property has many existing drainage issues. The development of this project will dramatically improve drainage and flooding problems not only on the subject site, but also for adjacent properties. Section 1.2.2 (F) encouraging patterns of land use which decrease trip length of automobile travel and encourage trip consolidation. Infill mixed use development such as that proposed in this ODP typically decreases VMT by those who work and live in such developments. Also by virtue of its location in the heart of town, it is our belief that this project will not only encourage trip consolidation, but also decrease the need for many vehicular trips and encourage pedestrian trips. Section 1.2.2 (G) increasing public access to mass transit, sidewalks, trails, bicycle routes and other alternative modes of transportation. The proposed project is located in very close proximity to mass transit, sidewalks, trails and bicycle routes. The project will be designed to promote access to these amenities and encourage their use. Section 1.2.2 (I) minimizing the adverse environmental impacts of development. The redevelopment of this industrial site will improve the water quality of site runoff. It will also replace several existing business that have much more of an adverse environmental impact with businesses that typically have little environmental impact. Section 1.2.2 (J) improving the design, quality and character of new development. While design, quality, and character are very subjective terms, it is utilize the services in a more pedestrian way. Policy DD-5.5 Parking Lots. Parking lots must be located to minimize their visibility from primary pedestrian streets, plazas and public spaces. Lots should be located behind buildings, in side yards, or in the interior of blocks throughout the Downtown District. Their visual impact can be softened and screened with a perimeter landscape buffer. Large -surface parking lots will be visually and functionally segmented to the extent practical. Land devoted to surface parking lots should be reduced, over time, through redevelopment and/or construction of structured parking facilities. The proposed ODP proposes a surface parking lot only as a temporary measure. It is anticipated that as this ODP and district redevelop, there will be a need for structured parking, and this ODP provides for the surface parking area to become a parking structure when sufficient demand has developed. Policy DD-5.6 Parking Structure Facilities. Parking structures will be encouraged and preferred over new surface parking lots. Parking structures will not be allowed to dominate the street frontage. Other parking structure considerations include: a. Parking structures fronting primary pedestrian streets with retail or other uses with a high level of walk-in clientele along the ground -level frontage, should minimize interruptions in pedestrian interest and activity. On other streets where a parking structure's ground level will be occupied by cars, a landscaped setback should be required to soften the visual impact on the street and sidewalk. b. Use architectural elements to establish human scale at the street level along the frontage of primary pedestrian streets, plazas and public spaces where practicable. c. Be compatible in architectural design with adjacent buildings. d. Locate auto entrances so as to minimize pedestrian/traffic conflicts. e. Provide a safe and secure environment for both pedestrians and vehicular traffic. The proposed future parking structure does front either Willow or the Pine Street extension depending on how the ODP is built out. We do intend to develop the facility consistent with this policy. In addition to furthering the above mentioned principles and policies, we believe that the proposed ODP also furthers the intent and purposes of the Land Use Code in the following ways: Section 1.2.2 (B) encouraging innovations in land development and renewal. streetscape improvements that presently exist on Linden between Walnut and Jefferson from Jefferson to Willow. This will enhance the connection between Old Town and the Civic Center and the Poudre River. Policy DD-3.7 Street Pattern. The existing street pattern will retain the historic street grid system. To maximize pedestrian access and safety, physical features such as traffic -calming crosswalks may be added at mid - block passages. This ODP will not only retain the historic street grid system, it will enhance it by providing for the Pine Street extension. We are proposing one mid - block crosswalk that will not only act as a traffic calming feature, but will hopefully become the Northwestern edge of a restored "parade ground" in future redevelopment projects. Policy DD-3.8 Public Spaces. New development and re -development opportunities shall incorporate public spaces. A diversity of types and scale of public areas will ensure a wide range of pedestrian destinations throughout the Downtown, including large civic plazas, courtyards, fountains, urban pocket parks and sidewalks. These public spaces will provide meeting and gathering points for people and shall be within close proximity to work, shopping, civic, cultural, and entertainment activities. The proposed ODP provides for a medium scale public plaza between uses A and B on Linden street. We feel that this plaza will provide for a gathering point and landmark within the district. Policy DD-4.2 Adaptive Reuse. The City will support and encourage the redevelopment and adaptive reuse of historically significant and architecturally important structures, including but not limited to, the Trolley Barn, Power Plant, and Northern Hotel. This ODP provides for the adaptive reuse of the only historically significant and architecturally important structure within its boundary, the Feed Store on the corner of Linden and Willow. Policy DD-5.1 Balanced Transportation Access. The City will lessen the effect of auto congestion by emphasizing other transportation means, including walking, bicycling, transit and rail. The efficiency of the Downtown, regional and community street systems will be maximized for access for all modes of transportation. This project provides for bicycle lanes and is quite pedestrian focused. We intentionally designed the ODP with parking tucked behind the primary uses in an effort to encourage users to "dismount' their cars and facing the street will be encouraged. New buildings will enhance and enliven streets and create safe, pleasant public environments. b. Blank walls should be avoided along streets, plazas and parks. If that is not possible, building facades lacking windows, and/or other architectural details facing or visible from these public spaces should be screened by landscaping to buffer the impacts of building mass, or designed to have architectural details that add visual interest to large walls. This policy will be furthered in all respects although this level of detail will likely come in future PDP submittals. We do intend to develop a vibrant human scaled pedestrian experience throughout the project. Architecture will be designed not only to be sensitive to human scaled proportions and the unique character of the area, but also to draw the outdoors in and vice versa. This "parkitecture" will not only develop lively and pleasant outdoor spaces, but also promote a more seamless transition between the outdoors and the indoors. Policy DD-3.3 Architectural Elements to Maintain the Integrity of Downtown. New buildings and public spaces will respect and be sensitive to the design integrity of Downtown, such as: a. Enhancing visual continuity and sense of place through the use of building materials and design features sensitive to the character of Downtown. b. Reflecting excellence and high quality in their design. While I surely have a bias relative to the excellence and high quality of the designs to be built within the development, we absolutely intend to be sensitive to the design integrity of downtown. We intend to build out of similar materials and draw from prominent design features of the historic downtown without simply replicating the historic architecture. Our design intent is to draw from the existing Old Town architecture while still maintaining a distinct feel and character for this district. Policy DD-3.6 Design of Streets and Public Spaces. Streets and public spaces within Downtown will be attractive, accessible, functional and designed to enhance pedestrian and bicycle activity, such as: a. Using public art, landscaping, and other street features that will create a comfortable and pleasant environment for the pedestrian, while providing continuous and clearly -expressed pedestrian circulation linkages to interconnect the Downtown District with surrounding neighborhoods and districts. b. Ensuring that city streets and gathering spaces will link and provide connections between Old Town, the Civic Center, surrounding neighborhoods and the Poudre River. As mentioned before, this project will provide a logical extension of the PRINCIPLE DD-2: Promote and expand facilities, programs and events that reinforce the Downtown as the center for cultural, recreation, and entertainment in the community and region, and expand educational opportunities in the Downtown. If the Museum/Imax option is developed, it would undeniably expand programs and events that would reinforce the Downtown as the center for culture, recreation, and entertainment in the community and region as well as expanding education opportunities in the downtown. Policy DD-2.2 Cultural/Entertainment. Increase the number, diversity and clustering of public and private entertainment facilities such as a new performing arts center, open air amphitheater and stages. This ODP would provide for numerous private entertainment facilities including open plaza performance opportunities, historic education opportunities and perhaps a Museum/Imax theater. Policy DD-2.3 Education. The City will encourage a partnership between education, cultural, and business institutions to improve opportunities for learning and expanding Downtown's employment base. It will also work to expand opportunities for providing educational programs and facilities in the area. If the Museum/Imax option is developed as a part of this ODP, it would clearly further the goals of this policy. Even if the Museum option is not developed, the ODP would expand downtown's employment base and expand educational programs and facilities in the area. PRINCIPLE DD-3: The design of streets, parking areas, public spaces and buildings in the Downtown shall reinforce the unique and distinctive character of the Downtown. Policy DD-3.1 Character of Downtown. The visual distinctiveness of Downtown and its component sub -districts will be maintained and reinforced. As mentioned before, the architecture, streetscape, and plazas developed as a part of this ODP will be consistent with and reinforce the unique and distinctive character of the existing downtown. Policy DD-3.2 Architectural Elements Based on Human -Scale. Human - scale design and architectural elements will be encouraged in Downtown. Such elements may include signage, awnings, storefronts, and proportional windows and other human -scale building details. a. Mixed -use buildings, interesting street -edge facades, and windows range of Colorado. Policy GM-8.1 Remedy Infrastructure Deficiencies. The City will selectively correct infrastructure deficiencies, such as storm drainage and streets, so that infill development does not pay an infrastructure "penalty" to remedy past problems in existing developed areas. This redevelopment district is currently served by substandard roads, utilities, drainage, sidewalks, etc. It is our hope that the city remains consistent with this policy so that this and other redevelopment projects do not pay an infrastructure "penalty". PRINCIPLE DD-1: The Downtown will provide a balanced mix of land use activities. While encouraging a mix of land uses throughout the Downtown, the predominant land use character of each sub -district will be maintained. Land use intensity should decrease as distance from the center of each sub -district increases -- establishing a transition between urban uses and adjacent neighborhoods. A mix of housing types for all income levels, family types, and age groups, with a variety of prices and rent levels, will be encouraged. Policy DD-1.1 Land Use. Basic land use activities will be clustered in distinct and compact sub -districts located to promote the movement of pedestrians between areas and to efficiently use public services and facilities, while preserving the historical buildings and character of the area. A mix of complementary and supportive land uses will be encouraged in each sub -district. This ODP promotes this policy by developing a compact sub -district that will promote pedestrian traffic between this project and adjacent facilities both public and private. Poudre River Corridor Sub -District Policy DD-1.16 Land Use. Principal land uses adjacent to the Downtown include a mix of public conservation and recreation areas, retail, of ices, residential and light manufacturing. Development and redevelopment opportunities, including both public and private activities, will enhance and extend the existing Downtown uses and character toward the river, provide an adequate buffer between new development and the natural riparian environment, and integrate cultural and recreational opportunities into this area. This project clearly provides for the redevelopment of this area that we believe will enhance and extend the existing Downtown uses and character one more block toward the river. potentially contributing structure to a potential district is a historic resource that must be protected under the code. We believe that this liberal interpretation of the code not only places an onerous burden on the landowners within this ODP and district, but also sets a dangerous precedent in which nearly any structure in the entire city could be considered a potentially contributing structure to a potential district. It is our belief that part of "raising the level of awareness and understanding of and appreciation for the value of historic preservation in contributing to the quality of life in Fort Collins" includes raising awareness of both good and bad historic preservation efforts. We believe that the liberal interpretation of this section of the City Code is an egregious example of poor historic preservation efforts. Policy HSG-1.1 Land Use Patterns. The City will encourage a variety of housing types and densities, including mixed -used developments, that are well -served by public transportation and close to employment centers, services, and amenities. In particular, the City will promote the siting of higher density housing near public transportation, shopping, and in designated neighborhoods and districts. This ODP provides for several mixed -use buildings, all of which would be in close proximity to public transportation, employment centers, services and amenities such as Old Town Square and its many restaurants, bars, entertainment, public services, shopping, etc. PRINCIPLE ENV-1: Continually improve Fort Collins' air quality as the city grows. Policy ENV- 1.21 Land Use. The City shall support proposals for higher density residential development and mixed land use development in appropriate neighborhoods and districts, if they are designed to enhance the use of alternatives to single -occupant motor vehicle transportation, and if they comply with all other criteria necessary for approval of such proposals. The proposed ODP provides a mixed -use product that by virtue of its location in the City of Fort Collins would likely reduce its residents' dependance on single -occupant motor vehicle transportation. PRINCIPLE GM-8: The City will promote compatible infill development in targeted areas within the Community Growth Management Area boundary. The Sears ODP is the ultimate infill site, given the fact that it provides for the redevelopment of the one of the original developments in Fort Collins, and possibly one of the original developments in the whole of the front color and finishes. b. Residential street light fixtures shall be designed for human, pedestrian scale, while providing an adequate level of illumination for safety. c. Where higher pedestrian activity occurs, such as associated with neighborhood or community centers, districts, or transit stops, a combination of lighting options should be considered -- such as exists in the Downtown -- with high mount fixtures for broad distribution of light within the street, and with smaller pedestrian -oriented fixtures along the sidewalk corridors. We have had discussions with the City of Fort Collins Advanced Planning department about establishing a thematic lighting pallette that will be used not only throughout this ODP but also throughout the entire redevelopment area. It is expected that this lighting pallette will be consistent with this policy. PRINCIPLE CAD-2: Public spaces, such as plazas, civic buildings, outdoor spaces, parks, and gateway landscapes should be designed to be functional, accessible, attractive, safe and comfortable. We intend to develop the plaza within this ODP in a way that will serve as a community gathering place similar to Old Town Square. We hope to encourage festivals, street performers, "people -watching," and sidewalk cafes to ensure that it is consistent with this principle. PRINCIPLE CAD-5: The quality of life in Fort Collins will be enhanced by the preservation of historic resources and inclusion of heritage in the daily life and development of the city and community. Policy CAD-5.2 Education and Awareness. The City shall raise the level of awareness and understanding of and appreciation for the value of historic preservation in contributing to the quality of life in Fort Collins. We strongly agree with this principle and intend to use this ODP and its architecture to further its goals. This ODP provides for the adaptive reuse of the historic feed store building on the corner of Linden and Willow Streets. All architecture designed within the ODP will be historically sensitive, drawing from the past without replicating it. We also intend to provide interactive historic kiosks and displays in the various buildings depicting the unique and historic character of the area. If the museum option is developed within this ODP we expect that this facility would also dramatically further this principle. In addition, we intend to conduct an archaeological survey of the ODP site in cooperation with the City of Fort Collins Historic Resources department. We do not, believe that it is the intent of the City Code to require that any While many of these kinds of details will be addressed in future PDPs we do intend to develop widened sidewalks with thematic furnishings and pedestrian scale lighting. We also expect to have sidewalk cafes and markets "spilling out" onto the sidewalk in some areas, adding further pedestrian scale interest. PRINCIPLE T-9: Private automobiles will continue to be an important means of transportation. Policy T-9.1 Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT). To meet the City' s air quality objectives, the City will establish a comprehensive program to reduce the annual rate of growth of total daily vehicle miles traveled, so that it does not exceed the rate of growth in population and employment. It is generally agreed that infill, mixed use development, reduces the project's occupant's dependancy on their automobiles by providing not only increased access to transportation alternatives, but also by providing many of the day-to-day needs in one area; theoretically reducing overall VMT.-rµCprd i8 p-LpJS �+itzJ�ue-ro-�j+E sot--, PRINCIPLE CAD-1: Each addition to the street system will be designed with consideration to the visual character and the experience of the citizens who will use the street system and the adjacent property. Together, the layout of the street network and the streets themselves will contribute to the character, form and scale of the city. Policy CAD- 1.2 Street Layout. New streets will make development an integrated extension of the community. The street pattern will be simple, interconnected and direct, avoiding circuitous routes. Multiple routes should be provided between key destinations. Streets should be located to consider physical features, and to create views and prominent locations for civic landmarks such as parks, plazas and schools. We believe that the addition of the Pine Street extension will further this policy by making the district more interconnected and providing multiple routes. Policy CAD-1.5 Street Lighting. Lighting fixture design and illumination should be tailored to match the context of the street. Lighting levels should be designed to emphasize the desired effect and not the light source, avoiding sharp contrast between bright spots and shadows, spillover glare, and preserving " dark sky" views at night time. a. The City should continue to explore new design options for the types of fixtures available for use within any street condition, which enhance the street environment by establishing a consistent style with height, design, development pattern within a well-defined boundary. Policy LU-1.1 Compact Urban Form. The desired urban form will be achieved by directing future development to mixed -use neighborhoods and districts while reducing the potential for dispersed growth not conducive to pedestrian and transit use and cohesive community development. The proposed ODP is a mixed -use district that would reduce the potential for dispersed growth. This project is also expected to encourage pedestrian and transit uses through its design and location. PRINCIPLE LU-2: The city will maintain and enhance its character and sense of place as defined by its neighborhoods, districts, corridors, and edges. It is expected that this project will be the first of many redevelopment projects in this area. Once redeveloped, we will hope to have achieved a district unto itself with its own distinct character and sense of place. _ uwe,T M1(AwT -rUb T. Principle T-7: The City will encourage the development of comfortable and attractive pedestrian facilities and settings to create an interesting pedestrian network. This ODP will provide a logical extension of the very successful pedestrian circulation in Old Town Square. We will continue the pedestrian friendly streetscape that already exists on Linden, down from Jefferson to Willow, providing a new pedestrian plaza and circulation spine. Policy T-7.1 Pedestrian Facilities. The City will encourage the provision of pedestrian scale improvements that tit the context of the area. The color, materials, and form of pedestrian facilities and features should be appropriate to their surroundings, as well as the functional unity of the pedestrian network, through means such as: a. Developing attractive improvements which enhance the character and pedestrian scale of the urban environment including streetscape design, vertical treatments, widened sidewalks, and furnishings. b. Incorporating special design features, public art, and site details that can enhance the pedestrian scale of streets and become an urban amenity. c. Encouraging outdoor cafes and activity areas that contribute to the character and human scale of the sidewalk environment. Building design and details should support the human scale of the street incorporating such elements as windows and other openings, porches and recesses, awnings, and patios. September 12, 2000 Ron Fuchs Planner City of Fort Collins 281 North College Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 Dear Ron: Attached is an ODP which encompasses the blocks between Linden and College and the railroad tracks and Willow. The property in question is owned by William C. Sears, Northern Colorado Feeders Inc., Resources Corp., Schrader Oil Company, and Wayne K. Schrader. Bill Sears is the applicant. The owners addresses are: Northern Colorado Feeders Supply, Inc. 359 Linden St. Fort Collins, CO 80524-2425 William C. Sears PO Box 1087 Laporte, CO 80535 Union Pacific Land Resources Corp. Mail Station 2903 801 Cherry Street Fort Worth, TX 76102-6803 Schrader Oil Co PO Box 495 Fort Collins, CO 80522-0495 Union Pacific Corp Attn: Property Tax Dept. 1700 Farnam St 101h Flr S Omaha, NE 68102-2010 Statement of Planning Objectives: (1) The following City Plan Principles and Policies are achieved by the proposed ODP. PRINCIPLE LU-1: Growth within the city will promote a compact 320 West Olive fart Collins, CO 80521 970.416.7431 1.888.416.7431 Fax: 970.416.7435 Email: mikal@aahitex.mm h11fiA\w vW0TChitex.mm