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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCHEROKEE FLYING HEIGHTS - PDP - 17-00 - REPORTS - RECOMMENDATION/REPORT W/ATTACHMENTSNE" 7HBORHOOD INFOR� CATION MEETING _s City of Fort Collins for Project: Meeting Location:_ Date: 3 Attendees:PIease sign this sheet. The information will be used to update the project mailing list and confirm attendance at neighborhood meet' C PI rt D �� - s. ontact the annin, epartment (__1-U J-U) if you ivish to. receive minutes of this meeting. Name Address Zip Did You Receive Written Notification of this meeting? Yes No orrect caress.' Yes No L -oyr Qo��►� s0sa x II i I Ii. i i FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:23PM P25 IX. TRANSIT A. Existing Conditions Transit stops are currently located in the vicinity of the Taft Hill Road — Mulberry Road intersection. Bus route 4 provides 30-minute service to this location. Service is available from 6:18 A.M. to 6:44 P.M., which is about 121A hours per day. The current peak load factor is less than 1.20 for a representative weekday peak hour. 0, Planned Improvements No improvements are planned in the immediate area of the site. Passenger demand is expected to be the driving force behind increases in the frequency of service and hours of operations. It is expected that Transfort will adequately serve this area in concert with ridership demands. C. Levels of Service Using the criteria presented in the Manual, current and future transit levels of service were determined. The current travel time factor was calculated for transit and automobile trips to Fort Collins High School, Foothills Fashion Mall, the CSU Transit Center, and the down- town area as defined in the Manual. Bus travel times and transfer times were ex- tracted from the current Transfort bus schedule brochure. A 3-minute walk time from the site to the bus stop locations at the Taft Hill Road — Mulberry Street intersection was assumed. Auto travel times were field measured as part of this study. Auto park and walk times were assumed to total 5 minutes. Current travel times for bus and auto traffic were estimated and resulted in a travel time factor of 2.03_ 21 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:23PM P28 • The Cherokee Flying Heights development will use the existing pedestrian facilities. Anticipated levels of service will meet or exceed City criteria. Current and future bicycle levels of service will exceed those required by City standards. This site has direct access to access north -south on -street bicycle lanes which connect to east -west bicycle lanes, • Future transit operations are expected to achieve level of service'B' condi- tions. This level of service exceeds City standards. In summary, the transportation demands associated with Cherokee Flying Heights are considered negligible. They can be easily absorbed and accommodated by the current transportation system. Acceptable operating conditions can be expected in the vicinity of the development for the foreseeable future. 24 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:18PM P4 Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 List of Figures VicinityMap...............................................................................................2 Current Peak Hour Traffic......................................................................... 6 Current Roadway Geometry......................................................................7 ConceptPlan...........................................................................................10 Short -Term Background Traffic...............................................................12 Short -Term Total Traffic..........................................................................14 Wwvm- nNaneK �s. n asr aff rim "L�'�-- i11BUIlU#li #� SQIfN HEYpIQI M�� Y s-.aR� x EO 6 i i MOSSIMME �•• � C2�81�91ii t4 F1Si d4Ydllgl '�•�' ru vir.r�- SoRd': rt r wm� npannmin WHIAWsiumnlvlfm i = fl HMe UUAIM wuRn 59. VA wum nnuRM 77 L C rrl M�WI�y�OYrtY• VEQiYM�rO�ww I �f e pp�� �(p�y��9�y�y��!���ry��{I 10' TEMP. G PACTED r1� VA N JIR[i GRAVEL EFFIKaENCY� �IY'Y1� t��t jj(jij����l� W � ACCEBB 5�'ROY A _ 11 _ -'� a� 'liii�,-� � i�Yl�![ %ice - FE ®■ . � 20'TEMP. CD AC7eD GRAVEL EMER'f�r ACCESS LM EFISf WE Sigfl OIhllING FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:23PM P27 m m m 7 tL N m m E of m N ti N N Y� ma y E E E E E 0 m m 00 m N d rti « P N t[f v o a Id � U.CD EE E v w Of —(-D m P .X m E E E E 2 ©I• , O N I- L6 N N f`0 Q O c o � m L G G C N D7 z O L m U Q C LL r G U t F• cc .' 1p l- U 1 0 m V � � N � v A c N0 0 0 0 fA m LL L to r+ G cn ch .� SG m m O N O d m v ` N w N C v 1O m Uf Q o = x O �- II m O N v ry� m r N } 61 J v y c w 0 y m N m m O D 7 x Lyy1 .L m 0 O C_ 11 _X C E O 00 N V N Vi m 0 U U U LO U U m r `y N O T c o y m Q m m E LL N LL E a O y IO F O J � y O x�SF-a dcc (D 2 3 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:23PM P26 By 2015, it is expected that weekday service hours will be extended to at least ac- commodate any growth in demand and extended service hours can be anticipated_ This is expected to result in a future LOS "B" as shown on Table 3. Since the site is located outside the designated mixed use centers and commercial corridors, the established goal of LOS 'D' is clearly exceeded. X. CONCLUSIONS Based upon the analyses, investigations, and findings documented in earlier sections of this report, the following can be concluded: • Current roadway operations in the area of the Cherokee Flying Heights site are acceptable during all peak hour periods. • Site traffic associated with the Cherokee Flying Heights development is ex- pected to be 10 morning peak hour trips, 12 afternoon peak hour trips, and 129 trips per day. These trips are considered minor. • The impacts of site generated traffic are negligible. This is evidenced by the finding that overall intersection levels of service remain constant be- tween current and short-term conditions with Cherokee Flying Heights fully built. • No site related transportation improvements are needed. The proposed full movement access to Taft Hill Road will not require any auxiliary lanes. • Per City criteria, traffic operations will be acceptable with the proposed de- velopment. PWA FROM :GENE cFOA FAX NO. :33-79zme +m 2 302 2:3m P24 q ■ � F- / < < < . @ k, f £ � m _ % � E E o < < f ( � 0 R / m O ) � m � § .¢ ] m k fto / E k § / E � �/« § 2 §ea 7 # �)§ � ; § %iPg b� § \ 2 f Go) ° ) o,A§ k)«}m a o � 20 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:22PM P23 VI11. BICYCLE FACILITIES A. Existing Conditions Taft Hill Road currently has on -street bicycle lanes and borders the site on the east. These lanes connect to established bicycle routes on Mulberry Road and LaPorte Avenue. Excellent connectivity is therefore provided in both the north -south and east - west directions. B. Planned Improvements No improvements are planned on the area bicycle system in conjunction with this development. C. Levels of Service The City of Fort Collins defines level of service based upon connectivity of the site to existing and planned bicycle facilities. In this instance, the site abuts existing bicycle lanes on Taft Hill Road resulting in excellent connectivity in all directions. This results in level of service 'A' being realized both currently and in the future. The bicycle level of service work sheet is presented on Table 2. 19 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:22PM P22 U m m m m co m m m U aq m c a m c+ w m v c 4 O O w 'O a c 0 v- m a E E 'c E w U w H O w E w E o E 0 E .E Q m Q .E m 0. E E c 0 ?E 0 C! O90 N a w ti c w 0 O c O c O c O � e- w N 1 8 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:22PM P21 along Taft Hill Road is considered sufficient to serve this site and pedestrians using this facility. C. Levels -of -Service The City of Fort Collins multi -modal transportation Level -of -Service Manual (the Manual) was used to assess both current and future pedestrian conditions. It was determined that the site fits the "School Walking Area" classification due to its rela- tionship to Poudre High School. The high school is about 0.7 miles away from the Cherokee Flying Heights site. The best routing for students to use would be south on Taft Hill Road, west on Mulberry Street and north on Impala Drive. Sidewalks are available on the appropriate sides of the street and there are no required crossings of the arterial streets. The distances between Putnam and Irish Elementary Schools and the site were also investigated as part of this study. Both elementary schools are over one mile from the site based upon the most logical and efficient walk routes. Putnam Elementary School, however, is the closest to Cherokee Flying Heights. While not required, a pedestrian analysis was conducted for the route between Cherokee Flying Heights and this elementary school. Five factors were assessed under current and future conditions. These classifications provide the basis for determining minimum level of service criteria. Based upon the investigations into current and future pedes- trian levels of service, acceptable levels of service are currently being and will con- tinue to be experienced. The pedestrian level of service worksheet is presented on Table 1. As shown, all pedestrian factors are expected to approximate acceptable conditions. 17 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:22PM P20 As shown above, acceptable operations are expected under short-term total traffic conditions with the existing roadway geometry. VII. PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES A. Existing Conditions The existing sidewalk system was field reviewed within 1,320 feet of the Cherokee Flying Heights site, Sidewalks currently exist along the west side of Taft Hill between LaPorte Avenue and Mulberry Road. Pedestrian facilities have been installed under earlier editions of City design stan- dards. This has resulted in older designs; however, all facilities were determined in generally usable condition. Pedestrian ramps are available at critical intersections and traffic signals facilitate crossings at the Taft Hill Road intersections with LaPorte Avenue and Mulberry Road. Generally speaking, Taft Hill Road has sidewalk along its west side adjacent to the site, LaPorte Avenue has sidewalk along the north side with significant breaches along the south side and Mulberry Road has sidewalk along both sides. Side streets leading to the elementary schools have sidewalk on both sides. Impala Drive from Mulberry Street to the north (leading to Poudre High School) has continuous sidewalk along its east side with partial sidewalk along the west side. Sidewalks adjacent to the site are 4 feet wide. In other areas, they range from 3 to 5 feet. B. Planned improvements The pedestrian system planned internal to Cherokee Flying Heights will conform to current City criteria. It will connect to the external pedestrian system thereby accom- modating and complimenting the integration of pedestrians into the site. No off -site improvements are planned in conjunction with this project. The current sidewalk fi[- FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:21PM P19 B. Short -Term Operating Conditions Short-term operating conditions were assessed using total traffic which includes full development of Cherokee Flying Heights. This investigation used the traffic volumes shown on Figure 6 and the existing roadway geometry shown on Figure 3. Resultant operating conditions are shown below. SHORT-TERM OPERATING CONDITIONS WITH PROJECT LEVEL OF SERVICE INTERSECTION CONTROL APPROACH/ MOVEMENT AM PK HR PM PK HR Taft Hill — Mulberry Street Signal EB C C WB C C NB C CC SB I C I C —Access Stop I NB LT I A I A EB LT/RT B B Taft Hill — LaPorte Signal EB C C WB C C NB C C SB C C Capacity worksheets are presented in Appendix C. 15 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:21PM Pie LaPorte Site Drive* Mulberry 45/40 --�l 220/175 —0� 140/180 —), A 5/5 --, 5/5 --), 0 N Ln R N a m o m o n m co 60135 340/225 —� 75/75 * Ste trips were rounded up to 5 vehicles per hour. LEGEND: AM/PM NOTE: Rounded to nearest 5 vehicles. *--15/35 4--195/195 � 55/110 rV N Ln {n In T T . N N I "3o Sm a 0 V 45175 �-- 160/190 95/195 I m0ti Co LO 0 0 1n 0 0- m Figure 8 14 SHORT-TERM TOTAL TRAFFIC FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:21PM P17 VI. TRAFFIC IMPACTS In order to assess operating conditions with Cherokee Flying Heights fully operational, capacity analyses were conducted at the Taft Hill Road intersections with Mulberry Road, LaPorte Avenue and the site access. Total traffic (background traffic combined with site traffic) was developed. Total traffic is shown on Figure 6. Site traffic was rounded up to 5 vehicles for each traffic movement. This represents a very conserva- tive analysis. When carried to specific traffic movements at nearby intersections, 5 site vehicles were added to each potentially impacted traffic movement. Total traffic volumes were reviewed from an auxiliary lane standpoint. The results of this review are discussed in the following section. A. Auxiliary Lane Requirements Traffic movements at the site access to Taft Hill Road were reviewed. This effort focused on the need for a southbound right turn lane and a northbound left turn lane to accommodate vehicles entering the site. Both lanes were determined to be unwar- ranted using criteria presented in Report 279, "Intersection Channelization Design Guide" as published by TRB. Warrant sheets are presented in Appendix B. The Mulberry Road and LaPorte Avenue intersections with Taft Hill Road were not re- viewed. This was deemed appropriate given the negligible amount of site traffic expected to use these intersections (5 — 6 vehicles at each intersection during peak hours) and the apparent lack of right-of-way to implement any improvements. 13 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:21PM P16 LaPorte Site Drive Mulberry LEGEND: AM/PM 0 H n] N {9D n to N O 46/40 220/175 135/176 II U 55/30-11 340/225 ---► 75/75 NOTE: Rounded to nearest 5 vehicles. 1�— 15135 4--195/195 50/105 c Co a 0 k— 40/70 4— 160/190 1(— 95/195 I Wmti LnMz co Ln `O v 0 e Figure 6 SHORT-TERM BACKGROUND 12 TRAFFIC FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:21PM P15 C. Trip Distribution Trip distribution is a function of the origin and destination of site users and the avail- able roadway system. In this case, all site traffic must use Taft Hill Road to access the site. Based upon current directional traffic on Taft Hill Road, a 50:50 directional split is appropriate in the northbound and southbound directions. V. FUTURE CONDITIONS A. Roadway Improvements The site is located in a built-up section of Fort Collins. Accordingly, no significant major roadway improvements are planned in the area of the site in the short-term. When and if improvements are made is largely speculative and cannot be reasonably predicted. For analysis purposes, any future improvements are assumed to occur well beyond the time frames considered in this study. B. Short -Term Background Traffic Volumes Background traffic was developed using an annual growth rate in the range of 11/ percent per year. This factor was applied to existing traffic volumes to approximate short-term conditions. Short-term conditions reflect the year 2005. This reflects the time frame requested by the City. By this time, Cherokee Flying Heights will be fully built and occupied. Short- term background traffic volumes are shown on Figure 5. 11 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:20PM P14 �l mgo 10 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:20PM P13 IV. DEVEI-OPMENT ISSUES A. Project Description Cherokee Flying Heights is a residential development with 22 condominium/town- homes. It is expected that construction will start in 2000 with completion and full occupancy within the following year or two. A single full movement access to Taft Hill Road is planned to serve this development. A concept plan for this development is presented on Figure 4. B. Site Traffic Site traffic was estimated using Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) publication, "Trip Generation, 6th Edition", a nationally recognized reference. The condomin- ium/townhome classification was selected to best represent this development. Trips associated with Cherokee Flying Heights are indicated in the following table. Land Use Size Daily AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour Rate Trips Rate In Out Rate In Out Townhorna/Condominium 22 D.U. 5.86 129 0.44 2 8 0.54 8 4 As shown above, Cherokee Flying Heights is expected to generate 10 morning peak hour trips, 12 afternoon peak hour trips, and 129 trips per day. These trips are con- sidered minor. It should be noted that the current residential use on this site was not considered In the determination of site traffic. Accordingly, the amount of new site traffic will be less than that indicated above. IN FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:20PM P12 CURRENT OPERATING CONDITONS LEVEL OF SERVICE APPROACH/ INTERSECTION CONTROL MOVEMENT AM PK HR PM PK HR Taft Hill — Mulberry Street Signal EB C C WB C... C NB C �~ C SB C C Hill — Access Stop NB LT A A EB LT/RT B B Taft Hill — LaPorte Signal EB C C WB JC W_ C NB C C SB C C Per City standards, overall level of service'D' is defined as acceptable for arterial street intersections. As shown above, all intersections currently operate at level of service'C' or better during peak hour periods. Capacity work sheets are presented in Appendix A. I FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:20PM P11 LaPorte Mulberry MNF Figure 9 CURRENT ROADWAY GEOMETRY FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Rpr. 19 2002 12:20PM P10 LaPorte Site Drive Mulberry LEGEND: AM/PM M 47 O °°-13/34 4--1751174 1 V;— 47194 42136 ` 1 ("' 2001158 — N o m 123/160 r' m 1, m M a7 N O1 V � W m V 1 1 M O Ql a N w 35163 Ln "' co 4-- 1431171 .) I 1(- 96/176 50/27 1 310/204 ---+ N, An rn 67/69 Lao;" v N V eh Figure 2 CURRENT PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC 8 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:20PM P9 C. Existing Traffic Weekday morning and afternoon peak hour traffic counts were obtained for both the Taft Hill Road — Mulberry Street and Taft Hill Road — LaPorte Avenue intersections. This information is presented on Figure 2. D. Existing Traffic Operations Highway Capacity Manual procedures were used to quantify current intersection oper- ations. Resultant levels of service (LOS) are indicated below for both morning and afternoon peak hour conditions at the Taft Hill Road intersections with Mulberry Street and LaPorte Avenue. Traffic volumes from Figure 2 were loaded onto the current roadway geometry, which is shown on Figure 3. 5 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:19PM P8 III. EXISTING CONDITIONS A. Existing Road Network The Cherokee Flying Heights site is located along the west side of Taft Hill Road north of Mulberry Road. The address of the site is 105 South Taft Hill Road. Taft Hill Road is a minor arterial roadway having two lanes in each direction adjacent to the site. It is a north — south arterial roadway extending through the City of Fort Collins and beyond_ Recent daily traffic on Taft Hill Road adjacent to the site is estimated at 10,500 vehicles per day. It typically has auxiliary lanes at all key inter- sections and on -street bicycle lanes. Older but functional sidewalk exists along the west side of Taft Hill Road. There are no driveways along the east side of Taft Hill Road in the area of the site. LaPorte Avenue and Mulberry Street intersect Taft Hill Road to the north and south of the site, respectively. These east — west minor arterial roadways lead to the down- town area. The Taft Hill Road intersections with these roadways are under traffic signal control. All streets are under Fort Collins jurisdiction. B. Surrounding Land Uses The Cherokee Flying Heights site is currently occupied by a less intense residential use. Residential developments lie directly north and south of the site with a golf course and cemetery to the east. The area is considered fully built. 4 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:19PM P7 II. AGENCY DISCUSSIONS Prior to undertaking this study, a scoping session was held with Eric Bracke. During that discussion, it was determined that an abbreviated transportation impact study was appropriate. Key items of agreement and direction are identified below. A full assessment of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit levels of service needs to be conducted. • The Taft Hill Road — Mulberry Street, Taft Hill Road — LaPorte Avenue, and site access intersections should be investigated. Weekday morning and afternoon peak hour conditions should be investigated. Other intersections are considered negligible. • An assessment of existing and future short-term conditions is appropriate. The short-term was identified as the year 2005. Traffic growth on nearby arterial streets of 1'/ percent per year is reason- able to estimate future background traffic, • Mr. Bracke specifically asked that the Taft Hill Road — LaPorte Avenue in- tersection be fully investigated. Split phasing is under consideration at this intersection. The above items are included or addressed in the following sections of this report. 3 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:19PM P6 v , F N z wakon e Dr� O �;� 4� Lancer ON W Yn Dr v _ mourilpin View ,q a u z [ z b s- Z Cnorry .n Cnerr SI E • Fri st 'c,t V, i b V Me la `' a mth�C i s `L Po o Avg. a IW W.L.Jt�e`C p 2 ([ G b m � � W Mou em Ave W 01, St of (lS W Cok SI T — SITE ' ^vd F W Mul erry St z ' O rn W M rtle St Cresi r Pi Bvc E.- L O m u — W c m n `\— W PI m $t om' w to N F 2 c n W EJrZ 3DOth h St m a lJ lhli arsrty Ave Virgiria bekr Ch �\ C a ewA U �• p u m G Wastword Or . �1 ma V u ti Sp in ro r, _ >L 4 GooY�i9nte lGM te9i MmrmdlCapa•Lon •ntUoribaupplwra. N�•pma�aaanad r4aau wt�t aw was ad•alnlm rlm•pa npMocom o,a as oe Figure 1 VICINITY MAP FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:19PM P5 1. INTRODUCTION Cherokee Flying Heights is a planned residential development along the west side of Taft Hill Road between Mulberry Road and LaPorte Avenue in Fort Collins, Colorado. A vicinity map is presented on Figure 1. This transportation impact study follows the established guidelines for such studies as are applicable and appropriate to the proposed project. The following key steps were undertaken as part of this study. Obtain current traffic and roadway data in the immediate area of the site. • Evaluate current operations to establish base conditions. • Determine site generated traffic volumes and distribute this traffic to the nearby street system. • Estimate roadway traffic volumes for future conditions. • Evaluate operations with the Cherokee Flying Heights fully operational. • Inventory, evaluate, and assess the pedestrian, bicycle, and transit net- works serving the site. • Identify deficiencies and recommend measures to mitigate the impact of site generated traffic and enhance the alternate travel mode systems as appropriate. Key areas of investigation are documented in the following sections of this transporta- tion impact study. FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:18PM P3 Table of Contents I. INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................1 II, AGENCY DISCUSSIONS..................................................................................3 Ili. EXISTING CONDITIONS..................................................................................4 A. Existing Road Network......................................................................................4 B. Surrounding Land Uses..................................................................................4 C. Existing Traffic...................................................................................................5 D. Existing Traffic Operations................................................................................5 IV. DEVELOPMENT ISSUES.................................................................................9 A. Project Description............................................................................................9 B. Site Traffic ................. ......................... ............................................................. -9 C. Trip Distribution...............................................................................................11 V. FUTURE CONDITIONS..................................................................................11 A. Roadway Improvements................................................................................11 B. Short -Term Background Traffic Volumes.........................................................11 VI. TRAFFIC IMPACTS........................................................................................13 A. Auxiliary Lane Requirements...........................................................................13 B. Short -Term Operating Conditions....................................................................15 VII. PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES....................................................... .....................16 A. Existing Conditions..........................................................................................16 B. Planned Improvements ................................. .................................................16 C. Levels -of -Service .......... .......................... ..... -------- ........................................... 17 VIII. BICYCLE FACILITIES....................................................................................19 A. Existing Conditions..........................................................................................19 B, Planned Improvements...................................... ............................................19 C. Levels of Service ...........................................................................................19 IX. TRANSIT.........................................................................................................21 A. Existing Conditions.......................................................................................21 B. Planned Improvements....................................................................................21 C. Levels of Service.......................................................21 X. CONCLUSIONS ........................ .......... ......... ..................... .......................... 22 FROM :GENE COPPOLA FAX NO. :303-792-5990 Apr. 19 2002 12:18PM P2 Transportation Impact Study CHEROKEE FLYING HEIGHTS Fort Collins, Colorado Prepared For: Jensen Investment Group Inc. 1019 Club View Road Fort Collins, CO 80524 Prepared By: Eugene G. Coppola P. O. Box 260027 Littleton, CO 80127 303-792-2450 December 29, 1999 HI �U C JUL 1 9 2001 Di 41 South Taft Hill Road Fort Collins, Colorado 80521 July 18, 2001 Cameron Gloss Current Planning Director City of Fort Collins 281 North College Avenue P.O. Box 580 Fort Collins, Colorado 80522-0580 SUBJ: Cherokee Flying Heights Development Proposal, #17-00A Dear Mr. Gloss: We own and reside at property on South Taft Hill Road, in close proximity to the subject development proposal. Due to scheduling conflicts, we have been unable to attend the neighborhood meetings concerning this project. We would appreciate receiving information on the development design, as well as copies of meeting minutes and letters from the public, so that we could review and provide additional project -specific comments. We must admit that the prospect of living near a relatively densely - populated housing project (considering lct-size) does not appeal to us. Obviously, the potential for increased noise and traffic are of greatest concern, particularly since these impacts cannot reasonably be mitigated. Our street is comprised of small homes with modest lots: in our opinion, an apartment complex simply would not be compatible with the overall character of our neighborhood. We appreciate the efforts you've made to inform homeowners of the Project and the opportunity you've provided for public input in your decision -making. Please send the information we've requested to the address listed above. You can also reach us by phone at 221-0323. Thanks for considering our request and comments. Sincerely, Michael W. Martin and Eva M. Long Q: Flooding hasn't been an issue in the area - how does this development handle stormwater flows? A: Stormwater detention is provided on -site near the front of the property. Comment: The City purchases open space - this property provides free open space. Comment: Fort Collins is growing; traffic on S. Taft Hill Rd. is increasing. Comment: The primary reason to have this neighborhood meeting (based on P&Z discussion) was ensure 'conformity' to the surrounding area. Q: What is 'reasonable' development on the site? A: (From developer) - this development adds value. Comment: This project does not fit the neighborhood visually, economically, or with respect to traffic impacts. Comment: (From developer) - Units need to be affordable and deed restricted as such. Comment: Replace building #4 with a playground/gardens or another open space. Other parts of the lot may be appropriate for an open space area (i.e., south side or near the center of the property). A poll was taken at the meeting and neighbors suggested a maximum density of 15 dwelling units for the property. Seven people voted in favor of the 15 dwelling units. Q: Why all build all 2-bedroom units? Couldn't they be 3 bedroom units? That could reduce the number of units to a level acceptable to the neighborhood. Comment: Dedication of an open space easement will protect land at the rear of the lots fronting S. Taft Hill Pa. from development. Q: Could stormwater flows go toward the ditch? A: No, the flows are controlled by the ditch company. Cherokee Flying Heights Neighborhood Meeting Date: July 11, 2001 Time: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Location: Poudre High School Q: What is the density? A: —12 dwelling units/acre Q: Is anyone involved in this project within the City or the decision -maker? A: Yes, the project architect (Mika) Torgerson) has a declared conflict -of - interest and is a member of the Planning and Zoning Board. Q: Why this property? Are other properties not available? A: This made sense given location near City Park 9 apartments in the neighborhood. Comment: This will set a precedent; other developers will see potential.and will intensify development in the area. Comment: 5. Taft Hill is a dangerous street; 'rear -end' accidents are common, particularly entering driveways. This development will increase the number of vehicles fourfold. A: 30 feet of Right -of -Way will be dedicated. Q: Why can't access be provided through the back of the lot? A: The adjacent property owner wouldn't sell necessary land. Comment: City widened street by 20' & added sidewalks, curb, & gutter approximately 20 years ago. Comment: There will be an increase noise and traffic as a result of this development. Q: Is fire access inadequate? (Particularly for the rear building) A: PFA has reviewed plans and they meet the 150' hose length standard. OUT PSD ADMIN POUDRE SR HIGH RL b...Iiii r- "-MIN MINION vwill IMINION #17-00 Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan Type I (LUC) GRANDVIEW PARK N/ , CITY PARK POL CITY PARK NINE GOLF COURSE 4/8/02 N 1 inch : 600 feet Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 10 1. The proposed land uses are permitted in the (LMN) Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood zone. 2. The Project Development Plan complies with all applicable district standards of Section 4.4 of the Land Use Code, (LMN) Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood zone. 3. The Project Development Plan complies with all applicable General Development standards of Article 3 of the Land Use Code. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, #17-00. Attachments: Site Vicinity Map Neighborhood Meeting Summary Correspondence Received Transportation Impact Study Development Plans Subdivision Plat Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 9 5. Section 3.6.6, Emergency Access Emergency access standards of this section are met through the proposed project development plan. As mentioned, an access easement is provided within the 20 foot -wide private drive to accommodate emergency vehicles, including a "hammerhead" style vehicle turnaround area near the center of the site. 4. Neighborhood Information Meeting A neighborhood information meeting was conducted on July 11, 2001 at Poudre High School. Questions and comments made at the neighborhood meeting are attached. Of the 9 area residents attending the meeting, the majority expressed concern regarding the following four major topic areas: 1) The proposed residential density; 2) Incompatible building character relative to the surrounding area; 3) Loss of open land at the rear of the lot and the sense of `openess" in the area; 4) Increased traffic volumes on S. Taft Hill Rd. as a result of the development and the difficulty of access to and from the site causing a potential safety hazard; 5) Potential stormwater impacts; and 6) The precedent this project will have on encouraging more development and higher residential density in the area exacerbating existing transportation problems/deficiencies. FINDINGS OF FACT/CONCLUSIONS After reviewing the Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, #17-00, staff makes the following findings of fact and conclusions: Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 8 compacted gravel surface, is located approximately 320 feet west of the entrance within a dedicated public right-of-way. An access easement is provided within the private drive to accommodate passage of emergency vehicles. The connection of the private drive with the public street is made in accordance with City standards. The future Homeowner's Association will be responsible for the operation, maintenance and reconstruction of the private drive, with none of the costs borne by the City. The Planning and Zoning Board granted a modification to the maximum 150 foot private drive length on June 7, 2001, finding that this project provides affordable housing, thereby addressing a community wide concern, and that granting of the modification would neither be detrimental to the public good nor impair the intent and purposes of the Land Use Code. 3. Section 3.6.3, Street Pattern and Connectivity Standards General Standard [3.6.3(B)] — To address the larger issue of street connectivity within the area, staff is requesting dedication of road right-of-way for a north -south local connector, roadway, shown on the plat as Pennsylvania Street. Such right-of-way dedication will help facilitate construction of an interconnected roadway system between Mulberry Street and LaPorte Avenue, if such a system is needed in the future to help disperse traffic within the area. 4. Section 3.6.4, Transportation Level of Service Requirements The Traffic Impact Study (TIS) has indicated that the transportation Level of Service (LOS) standards is met for automobile traffic, bicycles and pedestrians. All affected intersections are currently operating at LOS `C" and the additional traffic attributed to the development will result in a LOS well within the City standards. Bicycle movements are accommodated through on -street bicycle lanes on both sides of S. Taft Hill Road. S. Taft Hill Road is a major bus route and there are bus stop locations near the intersection at Mulberry Street. Development of an interconnected walkway system from the subject property to the existing sidewalk fronting S. Taft Hill Road should accommodate the use of transit by the project residents. It is approximately a 3-minute walk from the site to the nearest bus stops. Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 7 horizontal narrow lap siding, "belly bands", wood trim, cultured stone veneer wainscot on the foundations, and high definition asphalt roof shingles. • Outdoor Storage Areas/Mechanical Equipment [3.5.1(J)] — Utility meters, mechanical equipment, trash enclosures, transformers, vaults and conduits have all been located to minimize visual impacts, and have been adequately screened. • Relationship of Dwellings to the Streets and Parking [3.5.2(C)] Subsections (1) and (2) require all building facades and entrances to face the public street, in this case, S. Taft Hill Rd., and be within 200 feet of a public sidewalk. The Planning and Zoning Board granted a modification to this standard on June 7, 2001, finding that this project provides affordable housing, thereby addressing a community wide concern, and that granting of the modification would neither be detrimental to the public good nor impair the intent and purposes of the Land Use Code. D. Division 3.6, Transportation and Circulation 1. Section 3.6.1, Master Street Plan — This section of S. Taft Hill Road is identified as a 4-lane arterial street on the Master Street Plan. The street already includes 4 travel lanes and a 4 foot -wide attached sidewalk. 27.5 feet of additional right-of- way will be dedicated to the City via the subdivision plat in order to accommodate any future improvements including construction of wider, detached sidewalks and a full width bike lane. Therefore, the project development plan complies with this standard. 2. Section 3.6.2, Streets, Streetscapes, Alleys and Easements All street right-of-way widths dedicated on the plat comply with the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards. • Private Drives [3.6.2(L)] — A 20 foot -wide drive provided through the center of the site provides direct access to Taft Hill Rd. An emergency vehicle turnaround, with a Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 6 • Water Hazards [3.3.3(A)(2), (3) and (4) and [3.3.3 (B) and (C)— The applicant has prepared a Final Drainage and Erosion Control Report showing how the Project Development Plan complies with the City Stormwater Design Criteria and Construction Standards. A stormwater detention/water quality pond will be provided on the southeast corner of this site in order to satisfy the standard. • Engineering Design Standards [3.3.5] — This project complies with all design standards, requirements, and specifications for all of the commenting departments and agencies. C. Building Standards [3.5] 1. Building and Project Compatibility [3.5.1 ] • Architectural Character [3.5.1(B)] — As required, residential units share similar pitched roof forms, fenestration, and materials as that found within the surrounding neighborhood, thereby creating a compatible architectural character. • Building Size, Height, Bulk, Mass, Scale [3.5.1(C)] — The proposed height, mass, bulk and scale on some of the residential units are similar to surrounding buildings, while others are slightly taller and more massive. To address the compatibility issues of the larger residential buildings, they have been articulated and subdivided in massing that is proportional to the mass and scale of other structures immediately to the north and south. Specifically, the design of such larger buildings, includes the "stepping down" of height from a 2 story, in the middle of the buildings, to a 1 story element on the building ends. Hipped roof and lower eave heights have been used effectively to further reduce the perceived building mass and tend to impart a lower scale to the development. This standard is therefore satisfied given these techniques incorporated into the architectural design. • Building Materials [3.5.1(E)] — Building materials are similar and compatible to the materials already within the neighborhood. Residential units will incorporate board and batten wood siding, Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 5 • Parking Lot Layout [3.2.2(E)] — As required in this section, the proposed parking areas address the following issues: (1) Points of conflict between pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles are minimized through the site and parking area design; and (2) As required, there are no parking bays that extend more than fifteen spaces without an intervening landscape island or landscape peninsula. • Setbacks [3.2.2(J)] — The closest parking field is setback from S. Taft Hill Road by over 160 feet. The parking lot setbacks therefore meet the standard set forth in this section. • Required Number of Spaces for Type of Use [3.2.2(K)] — A total of 33 off-street parking spaces is required based upon the parking ratios for each 2 -bedroom and 1-bedroom residential unit. With 34 off-street spaces provided, the standard is satisfied. • Handicap Parking [3.2.2(K)(5)] — The proposed site plan satisfies this requirement in terms of the number of handicap parking stalls, and their location and configuration. • Parking Stall Dimensions [3.2.2(L)] — All proposed parking spaces meet the parking stall dimensions of this section. 3. Section 3.2.4 — Site Lighting The lighting designs must be fully shielded and in accordance with the requirements of this section. B. Engineering Standards [3.3] • Lots [3.3.1(B)] — The general layout of the private drive, future roads, driveways, utilities, drainage facilities and other services are designed in a way that accomplishes the intent and purposes of the LUC. • Streets, Alleys or Paths [3.3.2(F)(1)]—All developments must have adequate access to the City's Improved Arterial Street Network or to a street that connects to such network. With the private drive providing a direct connection to S. Taft Hill Rd., this standard is satisfied. Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 4 the side property lines (north and south sides) between the surface parking areas, and the adjacent lots to the north and south. This design is consistent with the requirements of this section. • Utilities [3.2.1(K)] — The required separations are provided between trees and utilities (street lights, underground water lines, underground sewer lines, and other underground facilities). 2. Section 3.2.2, Access, Circulation and Parking • Safety Considerations [3.2.2(C)(1)] — As required, pedestrian areas are separated from vehicle areas and bicycle areas by the use of detached 5 foot wide sidewalks running parallel to the north side of the private drive and parallel to the south property line. • Bicycle Facilities [3.2.2(C)(4)] — Adequate bicycle parking (bike racks) is provided in six locations, convenient to building entries to the attached single family units, and visible from the buildings they serve, consistent with the requirements of this standard. Parking to accommodate 20 bicycles is provided. • Walkways [3.2.2(C)(5)] — Walkways within the site directly and continuously connect points of pedestrian origin and destination. Such walkways provide a direct connection between the building entries and internal walkway system. This standard is therefore satisfied. • Direct Access to Pedestrian and Bicycle Destinations [3.2.2(C)(6)] — The internal walkway system is directly linked to the four foot wide attached sidewalk abutting S. Taft Hill Rd. • Access and Parking Lot Requirements [3.2.2(D)] — Pedestrian and vehicle movements are separated through the provision of a walkway system detached from the private drive. Unobstructed vehicular access to and from S. Taft Hill Rd. is provided for all off-street parking spaces. The Traffic Operations Department has reviewed the access design and found it to be designed in a manner that will protect the traffic -carrying capacity of the street while still protecting those using such access. Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 3 A. Division 3.2, Site Planning and Design Standards 1. Section 3.2.1, Landscaping and Tree Protection • General Standard [3.2.1(C)] Of the four existing trees on -site, one tree abutting the south property line will be retained, and three will be removed. The three trees to be removed will require additional trees to be planted in the number and of the type specified on the "Existing Tree Mitigation Schedule" shown on the landscape plan. Landscaping has generally been used to visually screen parking areas, enhance the pedestrian environment along the proposed walkway system, and helps to provide spatial definition of public and private areas on -site. • Full Tree Stocking [3.2.1(D)(1)(c)] A combination of formal and informal planting of canopy shade trees, coniferous evergreens and ornamental trees, at the requisite minimum/maximum spacing dimensions, is provided within 50 feet of any building or structure; therefore, the full tree stocking standard is met. • Foundation Plantings [3.2.1(E)(2)(d)] — All high visibility sections of building walls have planting beds at least 5 feet in width along more than 50% of the high -visibility walls. The landscape plan therefore satisfies the foundation plantings requirement. • Parking Lot Perimeter Landscaping [3.2.1(E)(4)] —All fields of parking with six or more spaces are screened from adjacent uses through the use of fences six feet in height coupled with shrubs. The landscape plan therefore satisfies perimeter -landscaping requirements. • Parking Lot Interior Landscaping [3.2.1(E)(5)] — Parking lot areas dedicated on the site plan are required to devote at least 6% of the area of the parking lot to landscaped areas. All proposed parking areas allocate greater than 6% to landscaped areas, including deciduous trees within all of the parking area islands, and at the ends of parking aisles, when such areas can physically accommodate a tree. • Screening [3.2.1(E)(6)] — Landscape and building elements are placed to adequately screen areas of low visual interest and visually intrusive site elements including the trash enclosure areas. Six foot -high wood fencing, in combination with shrub plantings, has been placed along Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan, File #17-00 April 24, 2002 Administrative Hearing Page 2 COMMENTS: Background The surrounding zoning and land uses are as follows: Existing Zoning Existing Land Use North LMN Detached Single Family South LMN TV Repair Shop/Detached Single Family Residence East POL City Park 9 Golf Course West RL Detached Single Family The property was platted as Lots 1 and 2, M. and G. Subdivision. 2. Division 4.4 of the Land Use Code, (LMN)- Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood Zone District The proposed and single family attached dwellings and single family detached dwellings (loft units above garages), are permitted in the (LMN)- Low Density Mixed Use Neighborhood zone district subject to Type I Administrative review. The PDP meets the applicable Land Use Standards [4.4 (D)] and Development Standards [4.4 (E)] as follows: A. Density [4.4(D)(1)(b)] — The proposed gross residential density of 10.93 dwelling units per gross acre is less than the permitted maximum 12 units per gross acre for affordable housing projects; therefore, this standard is satisfied. B. Maximum Residential Building Height [4.4 (E)(3)]- The maximum height for all residential buildings is two and a half stories. All proposed residential units meet this standard 3. Article 3 of the Land Use Code — General Development Standards The Project Development Plan complies with all applicable General Development Standards as follows: ITEM NO. I MEETING DATE •Z-4.0 STAFF e: >A vl e.yovi 4v l o55 City of Fort Collins HEARING OFFICER STAFF REPORT PROJECT: Cherokee Flying Heights Project Development Plan File # 17-00 APPLICANT: Mikal Torgerson . M. Torgerson Architects, P.C. 223 N. College Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80524 OWNERS: Jensen Investment Group 1212 S. College Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80524 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a request for Project Development Plan (PDP) approval for a 19-unit, designated affordable housing project on 1.738 acres located on the west side of S. Taft Hill Road, approximately midway between LaPorte Avenue and Mulberry Street. All units will be accessed via a private drive connecting to S. Taft Hill Road. The property is zoned Low Density Mixed Use Neighborhood (LMN). Proposed residential density is 10.9 dwelling units per gross acre where a maximum of 12 units per gross acre is permitted for affordable housing projects on parcels containing ten acres or less. RECOMMENDATION: Approval EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: 1. The proposed land uses are permitted in the (LMN) Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood zone. 2. The Project Development Plan complies with all applicable district standards of Section 4.4 of the Land Use Code, (LMN) Low Density Mixed -Use Neighborhood zone. 3. The Project Development Plan complies with all applicable General Development standards of Article 3 of the Land Use Code. COMMUNITY PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES 281 N. College Ave. P.O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO80522-0580 (970) 221-6750 PLANNING DEPARTMENT