HomeMy WebLinkAboutRAMS PARK - PDP/FDP - 12-00 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - PLANNING OBJECTIVESThank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to working with you
during the development review process.
/Sincerely,
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Drew Thomas
VF RIPLEY ASSOCIATES, INC.
The sensitive re -alignment of an existing 10' public access easement/path
provides pedestrian access for the proposed development as well as enhancing
the connection between the multi -family development to the north and West
Elizabeth Street.
A common open space area is proposed between the two buildings closest to
West Elizabeth. This area serves as a central gathering space with a lawn area,
bicycle racks, specimen trees and landscaping incorporated into a meandering
pedestrian path that provides internal and adjacent use connectivity.
The design objectives of the landscape plan are to screen parking and provide
shade, seasonal interest, and create an attractive streetscape. City approved
street trees along West Elizabeth are proposed to improve the visual character of
the street. Existing trees are to be removed due to City required grading and
street/sidewalk alignment and tree health issues. As per City Forester
requirement- 13 proposed trees have been up -sized in order to mitigate the loss
of existing trees. Foundation shrub plantings and trees will be used to
complement the architecture and enhance the quality of outdoor spaces.
The Rams Park project exemplifies many of the Principals and Policies of the
City Plan including:
LU-1, LU-2.1, LU-2.2, MMN-2, MMN-3.1, EXN-1.4
Project density promotes compact urban growth and enhances the citywide
structure by proposing infill development sympathetic to the Neighborhood
Commercial Center. The proposed development offers further positive
contributions to the area by serving as a transition between adjacent multi -family
and commercial uses.
T-1.21 T1.3, T-4, T-5
Proposed enhancement of West Elizabeth Street corridor will meet city street
design criteria. Furthermore, internal drives and pedestrian/bicycle paths are
designed in a fashion so as to minimize conflict and provide connectivity while
promoting the safety and use of viable transportation alternatives.
T-6, T-7, T-8, CAD-4
Paving patterns at street crossings, landscape treatments and site lighting are
proposed in order to enhance the context and character of the area and provide
for public safety.
CAD-1.4, ENV-4.5
Proposed street trees along West Elizabeth are arranged to establish urban tree
canopy and provide natural cooling and shade.
April 4, 2000
Fort Collins Planning Department
281 N. College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Re: Planning Objectives for Rams Park multi -family development
VF RIPLEY
ASSOCIATES INC.
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Planning
401 West Mountain Avenue
Suite 201
Fort Collins. CO 80521 2604
PHONE (970) 224-5829
FAX (970) 224-166'-
The 3.48 acre Rams Park infill site is located on West Elizabeth Street just west
of Taft Hill and consists of a second replat (2.82acres) of the West Elizabeth
PUD and an adjacent .66 acre tract directly to the west. The site is zoned MMN
Medium Density Mixed -Use Residential and NC Neighborhood Commercial
District. Surrounding land uses include the Sunray Place and Vista Mountain
multi -family developments to the north College Park apartments to the west, the
King Soopers commercial center across West Elizabeth to the south and Gables
Plaza, KFC and the closed Little Caesar's building to the east.
Proposed development for the site includes four multi -family buildings. Three
building footprints accommodate 2, 3 and 4 bedroom units while maintaining
architectural congruity in the 78 unit complex. The architectural character of the
proposed three story buildings is similar to that of the adjacent multi -family
developments. Proposed buildings are oriented to minimize northern exposures
and create a central common open space.
Proposed site vehicular access is a one way loop system designed to provide
access throughout the site and eliminate dead-end parking areas. Parking is
distributed throughout the site to provide convenient vehicular access and a safe
pedestrian environment. Surface parking spaces total 156.
Pedestrian/Bicycle connectivity throughout the site and to adjacent uses is
accomplished with the incorporation of a series of sidewalks connecting all uses.