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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFORT COLLINS LOVELAND WATER DISTRICT - PDP - 23-98 - REPORTS - RECOMMENDATION/REPORT W/ATTACHMENTSFort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study ITE Fifth Addition Trip Generation Table The relationship behveen building size and the number of employees, and trips generated is illustrated in the following tables, which approximate trip generation rates as derived from the trip generation equations sho'.vn on the following pages: Table 3: General Office Building Trip Generation Vehicle Trip Ends (Two -Way Volume) Per Employee Derived From Tri Generation Equations Employees Average Weekday A.M. Peak Hour P.M. Peak Hour Vehicle Trip Ends (1 Hour Bet,.veen (1 Hour Between 7 and 9 A.M. 4 and 6 P.m. F Rate Volume Rate Volume Rate I Volume 25 6.00 150 0.77 19 0.92 23 50 100 5.32 1 4.74 266 0.70 ( 35 0.79 40 474 0.64 64 1 0.69 69 200 300 4.22 f 3.94 844 0.58 1171 0.60 119 1183 0.55 1661 0.55 165 400 3.76 1503 0.53 212 1 0.52 1 207 500 3.62 1809 0.52 258 0.49 247 600 3.51 2105 0.50 302 0.48 285 700 3.42 1 2393 0.49 345 0.46 323 800 3.34 1 2675 0.48 387 0.45 358 900 1 3.28 2950 0.48 428 0.44 394 1,000 1 3.22 1 3220 0.47 1 469 0.43 428 1,200 3.12 3748 1 0.46 1 549 0.41 495 1,600 or more 2.98 1 1 0.44 1 0.39 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 17 Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Continuity B/C: There is a direct sidewalk connection to the shopping center directly to west of this project and to the north bound transit stop on College Avenue. The south bound transit service does not have a continuous sidewalk connection currently available. Street Crossing B/C: Although there are no major streets to cross to get to the east side of College Avenue and the northbound transit stop on College Avenue, a pedestrian will need to cross College at Fossil Creek to utilize the southbound transit stop. A pedestrian button exists at the intersection, along with adequate lighting, and painted crosswalks for all movements. Visual Interest & Amenity B/C: The landscaping in the area is generous and attractive. This project proposes to extend the sidewalk along the east side of Snead Drive adjacent to this parcel. Security B: Pedestrian line of sight and visibility is good. The existing lighting along the direct route to the north bound transit stop is good. This, along with the other street lamps and parking lot lighting in the area provides adequate lighting. However, evening activities are limited and may provide a less than desirable feeling of security after closing time of the nearby shopping centers and offices. This should improve as the area continues to develop. Bicycle LOS - C Currently there is a north/south bike ane on College Avenue which connects with the Harmony East/West Route. The bicycle connection to College Avenue is via Fairway Lane or Fossil Creek Parkway. Transit LOS - B The Fox Trot transit service along College Avenue could be used by employees and visitors of the Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office. This service currently runs at one-half hour intervals from approximately 6:30am to 6:30pm, between downtown Loveland and the Square in Fort Collins. Based on City of Fort Collins 2015 transit forecasts, College Avenue will be a High Frequency Travel Corridor that will provide transit service every 20 minutes for twelve hours per day and an additional 4 hours of evening service. Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 16 k Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study The year 2000 short range and year 2015 long range background plus project a.m. and p.m. peak hour level of service analysis is presented in Table C. As can be seen, the volumes generated by the proposed Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office are insignificant and will not directly result in any unacceptable levels of service. However, as seen in Table A the year 2015 pm peak background traffic causes the intersection to drop below the minimum level of service that is acceptable. Traffic improvement militations may be necessary if these projected traffic volumes are realized. The traffic mitigation improvements that improved the level of service to an acceptable level of service in Table A was the ' addition of dual westbound left turn lanes. Table D - Level of Service Calculations Level of Service College/Fossil Creek (signalized) AM PM Existing Intersection Level of Service B B Year 2000 Background B B Year 2000 Background and Project B B Year 2015 Background D F Year 2015 Background and Mitigation D D Year 2015 Background, Mitigation and Project D D Pedestrian LOS A pedestrian level of service was conducted for the proposed Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office. Five level of service measures were conducted as follows: Directness - A: The proposed Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office is located approximately 600' to the east of the College/Fossil Creek intersection. Direct connections exist for the Fossil Creek Design Center and the transit stop on College Avenue. Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 15 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 9 -Year 2015 Background Plus Project Traffic Legend 47/144 AM/PM Peak Hour n m N U1 m Q m O1 N O U y Fairway Ln. a Project Location O N rn *-1175/275 1 i1 it `� *--236/ ■ A) �36/185 16/35 __14 'q) ? ('V 9/32­1� 22/64 a m Z6 a n Fossil N a Ridge Dr. O 41 °^9 e� A� Ftlovgccdr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 14 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 8 -Year 2000 Background Plus Project Traffic Legend 47/144 AM/PM Peak Hour n m N m Q m m m 0 U vi Fairway Ln. Project Location _ En126/93 /N m1 m r ♦ 1 2/8 �-5466 • 101221 t 2/14 --b- 14/40 o m �2 Fossil N° Ridge Dr. A% 0 ss// ce A� Fdonr.cdr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 13 it Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 7 -Project Generated Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Year 2015 Legend 47/144 AM/PM Peak Hour AtCo N cn 55% D a m rn m 0 U y Fairway Ln. Project Location Nl j-215 ■ I m e Fossil Ridge Dr. T C`rS9 0 30 /0 15% A� Ftlovgccdr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 12 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 6 -Project Generated Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Year 2000 Legend 471144 AM/PM Peak Hour 7 n CO N m 65% m m m 'o U Fairway Ln. Project Location 3/10 �l �2/6 ■ 0 Fossil Ridge Dr. T osS/% 35% 0% Ftlovgr.cdr 4.16.98 e Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 11 Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study north, 30 percent south, and 15 percent east on Fossil Creek Parkway for the year 2015. This is due to the projected connection of Fossil Creek Parkway with Lemay Avenue. The Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office trip distribution assumptions and resulting a-m. and p.m. peak hour traffic assignment is presented in Figure 6a, and 6b. Year 2000 background plus project and year 2015 background plus project traffic are presented in Figures 7 and 8 respectively. Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 10 Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study All intersection turn movements will operate acceptably during the short range year 2000 background conditions. However, the long range 2015 background conditions operate below the required City of Fort Collins standards. Based on a review of the Level of service analysis, an acceptable level of service can be achieved with the conversion of the west bound through lane to a second west bound left turn lane, and the right turn lane converted to a through/right turn lane. It shall be noted that this 2015 forecast is contingent upon connecting Fossil Creek between College Avenue and Lemay Avenue. Project Traffic Trip generation for the proposed Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office, are based on estimates form The ITE fifth addition trip generation manual. Based on six trips per employee, the 19 employees will generate approximately 114 daily trips. Morning and afternoon peak counts are also based on the ITE fifth addition trip generation manual. Based on visitor count history at other facilities of this type. This development will generate approximately 17 visitor trip ends per day, with some of these trips occurring during the p.m. peak hour. Conservatively estimated counts for service vehicles indicate approximately one service vehicle trip end per day for this type of facility. Table C - Project Trip Generation AM AM AM PM PM PM ADT IN OUT Total IN OUT Total Trip Generation Rates Employee 114 12 3 15 4 14 18 Visitors/ Service 18 2 2 4 5 2 7 Trip Generation 132 14 5 19 9 16 25 As seen, trip generation for the Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office is 132 daily trips, 19 a.m. peak hour trips, and 25 p.m. peak hour trips. In general, traffic flows reflect inbound and outbound employees arrival and departure patterns. The trip distributions for the proposed project are based on the location of the project within the City of Fort Collins, the current trip distribution patterns, and on the projected growth rates estimated for the year 2015. Based on this information, it was estimated that approximately 65 percent of the project traffic would go north on College and 35 percent south for the year 2000, and 55 percent Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 9 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 5 -Year 2015 Long Range Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Legend 47/144 AM/PM Peak Hour 00 N m Q m Ol m O U N Fairway Ln. c' Project m a Location 0 ask-473/270 a^N 1 y 4 /13 i 34„ 80 i ■ 16/35 —0 9/32 ---w 22/64 N n o C m m Fossil g N N Ridge Dr. Q SS,/ CAB B1F Q� Ftlovgr.odr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 8 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 4 -Year 2000 Short Range Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Legend 47/144 AM/PM Peak Hour r` m N V1 m Q m CO m O U Fairway Ln. ° Project o o rn 1�-125/83 Location � 1 Ira � 91400 ■ 10/22 q� 1 2/14—► 14/40 v �n m Fossil N° Ridge Dr. 0 ss� P. a� A� Fdovgr.odr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 7 Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Table A - Level of Service Calculations Level of Service College/Fossil Creek (signalized) AM PM Existing Intersection Level of Service B B As can be seen above, acceptable levels of services exist for both the a.m. and p.m. peak hour conditions for all movements of the College Avenue / Fossil Creek Parkway intersection. Background Traffic Background traffic projections for the year 2000 short range and year 2015 long range were forecasted. The year 2000 forecasts were based on growth factors developed through comparison between 1996 and 1998 counts. The 2015 forecasts were based on the North Front Range Transportation and Air Quality Planning Council Traffic model. The resulting year 2000 short range and year 2015 long range background volumes are presented in Figures 4 and 5 respectively. The resulting Year 2000 and 2015 background intersection levels of service are presented in Table B. Table B - Level of Service Calculations Level of Service College/Fossil Creek (signalized) AM PM Existing Intersection Level of Service B B Year 2000 Background B B Year 2015 Background D F Year 2015 Background and Mitigation D D Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 6 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 3 - Existing Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Legend 47/144 AM/PM Peak Hour r- m N rn D Q 0 m m O U ai Fairway Ln. Project m Location U'lN N n l� 9/40 ■ 9/10� O INN 0%7 ---W 7/19- OI O Ana v ^ �a Fossil N Ridge Dr. AN ssY/ o, �P fla 'L Ftlovgccdr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 2 - Proposed Site Plan 1S3M 310810 u r M�nw Lis �e: litli t [[ O t O I � Y � F � e C 4 P SNEpO �1 1 m i mC mU U � I9N m L ❑ I I 1nN3Av 1031103 Hinos Fllovgr.cdr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study The site plan has a direct connection to Snead Drive to east and Fossil Creek Parkway to the south. A direct pedestrian connection exists to College Avenue via an east/west sidewalk through the Fossil Creek Design. Attached sidewalks exist along Snead Drive and Fairway Lane providing an alternative pedestrian access to College Avenue . Bike lanes are also accessible along College Avenue. Existing Traffic The limits of this study are based on discussions with Eric Bracke, the City of Fort Collins Traffic Engineer. Based on the minimum anticipated traffic volumes generated by this project, it was concluded that the focus of the study should be at the intersection of College Avenue and Fossil Creek Parkway. Existing a.m. and p.m. peak hour intersection traffic counts for the College Avenue/Fossil Creek Parkway intersection were conducted for this project consistent with the Traffic Impact Study Guideline. The counts were collected by Balloffet & Associates on April 4-5, 1998. The existing a.m. and p.m. peak hour intersection turn movement counts for College Avenue/ Fossil Creek Parkway intersection are presented in Figure 3. An existing a.m. and p.m. peak hour intersection level of service analysis was performed for the College Avenue/Fossil Creek Parkway intersection. Level of Service (LOS) is a grading system as to how well an intersection operates, ranging from "A," which is excellent, to "F" for a failure. LOS of "D" or better is the City of Fort Collin's threshold for being acceptable. The existing levels of service for this intersection is based on the Highway Capacity Manual and are presented in Table A. Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 3 Fort Collins - Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Figure 1 - Project Location map m a' m E m J (n E. Horsetooth Rd. C N N O m O a F m 0 U Cd Whalers Wy. Palmer Dr. L mn Future -. Connection Skyway Dr. S@ r Ftlovgr.Cdr 4.16.98 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 2 Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Introduction The following traffic impact study is for the Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office, proposed to be located at the end of Snead Drive north of Fossil Creek Parkway, and east of College Avenue in the City of Fort Collins. The analysis evaluates the existing conditions, short-term year 2000 forecast impacts, and the long-term year 2015 forecast impacts. This analysis examines automobile, transit, bicycle and pedestrian mobility. Due to the minimum trip generation from the proposed Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office, the focus of this study is at the intersection of College Avenue and Fossil Creek Parkway. As will be presented, the proposed project will not result in a significant traffic impact, and the available pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities are adequate. Access to College Avenue will be via Fairway Lane and Fossil Creek Parkway through a public access easement through the Fossil Creek Design Center located east of Snead Drive. Ultimately Snead Drive will be extended to the south and connect with Fossil Creek Drive. This will occur with the development of the vacant parcel south of this proposed project. Existing Setting The proposed project will have access drives connecting to Snead Drive, and Fossil Creek Parkway in the City of Fort Collins, as presented in the project location map (Figure 1). Snead Drive is a two-lane commercial/light industrial street that intersects with Fairway Drive to the north. Fairway Lane is a two-lane facility at its intersection with Snead Drive. Fossil Creek Parkway is a two lane residential collector with a rural cross section. The cross section for College Avenue at the intersection of Fossil Creek accommodates left turn lanes, two through lanes in each direction and designated right turn lanes. The speed limit along College Avenue is 50 miles per hour. Ultimately Fossil Creek will be connected to the east and provide through access to South Lemay Avenue The intersection of Fossil Creek Parkway and College Avenue is controlled by a signal. All other intersections within the study area are stop sign -controlled for the minor cross street. Project Description The Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office, is a public agency that will employ 19 people. Nine will work in field operations, and the other ten are administrative. This facility will have a storage area for materials, and a drive through payment drop for the convenience of their senior and handicap costumers. Balloffet & Associates, Inc. 1 IN Fort Collins / Loveland Water District Traffic Impact Study Table of Contents Introduction..............................................................1 Existing Setting............................................................ 1 Project Description......................................................... 1 Existing Traffic.............................................................3 Background Traffic.........................................................6 P roj ect Traff i c .............................................................9 Pedestrian Level of Service .................................................. 15 Bicycle Level of Service....................................................16 Transit Level of Service.....................................................16 Figures 1. Project Location Map....................................................2 2. Proposed Site Plan.......................................................4 3. Existing Peak Hour Traffic Volumes ......................................... 5 4. Year 2000 Short Range Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes ................... 7 5. Year 2015 Long Range Background Peak Hour Traffic Volumes .................... 8 6. Project Peak Hour Traffic Year 2000......................................... 11 7. Project Peak Hour Traffic Year 2015......................................... 12 8. Year 2000 Short Range Background Plus Project Traffic ......................... 13 9. Year 2015 Long Range Background Plus Project Traffic ......................... 14 Tables A. Intersection Level of Service Calculations ..................................... 6 B. Intersection Level of Service Calculations ..................................... 6 C. Intersection Level of Service Calculations .................................... 15 D. Project Trip Generation ................................................... 9 Appendix A. Trip Generation Table ................................................... 17 B. HCM Output.......................................................... 18 Balloffet & Associates, Inc. IN ad Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Office Traffic Impact Study Prepared for: Everitt Companies Prepared by: Balloffet & Associates Apri 1 17, 1998 Request for Modification of General Development Standards Fort Collins/ Loveland Water District PDP Project Number: R98-017 This is a Request for Modification of General Development Standards 3.5.3 (B) (2) (b), regarding building setbacks which states. "Buildings shall be located no more than fifteen (15) feet from the right-of-way of an adjoining street if the street is smaller than a full arterial or has on -street parking." VF Ripley Associates Inc. requests a modification of building set backs due primarily to site topographic constraints. Along Snead Drive within the 15' building setback the street elevation is 3.25 feet +/- higher than the building elevation. This situation is further complicated by the need for positive drainage away from the building and then returning to the higher elevations along Snead Drive. As a result the building is left in the visually negative position of being lower in elevation than the road, and also a retaining wall will be required to address the changes in grade. A retaining wall at this location would be a detriment because the site would be cut off from the street. Locating the building 26 feet +/- from the flowline would accomplish several objectives with the result being a benefit to the overall site. First, the need for a retaining wall would be eliminated thus unifying rather than separating the site from the surrounding parcels. Second, pedestrian circulation on the site and to nearby parcels would be more direct and functional. Third, there is an opportunity to create a more defined sense of entry to the building. Finally, there are no buildings located on tracts `A' and `B' along Snead Drive and therefore no disruption of common building setbacks along the street. 2.) Bikes can access the project as described above or along the existing street system. Access ramps and bicycle parking are provided at convenient locations. 3.) Currently the City's Transfort bus system does not extend south past Harmony Road. However, a regional system known as the Fox Trot, does have a transit stop at Fairway Lane. Transit riders could access the project easily from this location. 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. The proposed project provides a entry plaza featuring special paving, ramped access points, and bicycle parking. This visually attractive entry plaza provides an opportunity for visitors and/or employees to take a break in a pleasing outdoor environment. In addition, the applicant is proposing another outdoor area for employees to utilize for breaks or at lunch. This area will feature a seatwall and special paving. Both areas are enhanced with attractive planting that exemplifies xeriscape principles. Policy ENV-3.3 Water Demand Management Policy. The City should initiate and intensify activities that demonstrate a commitment to the efficient and wise use of water, The landscape plan proposed for the project utilizes the following xeriscape principles: Plant material with low to moderate water requirements Limited turf areas Effective use of soil amendments and mulches An efficient irrigation system Appropriate maintenance Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to working with you during the development review process. Sincerely, VF Ripley Associates Linda Ripley Principal City Plan Principles and Policies achieved by the proposed plan include: PRINCIPLE LU-1: Growth within the city will promote a compact development pattern within a well-defined boundary. The project site is located between existing residential areas and directly behind a commercial development (Fossil Creek Design Center). The proposed project promotes a compact development pattern by utilizing a property that is located in between incompatible land uses. A public agency office building is compatible with both commercial and residential development. Effective use of an "infill" site promotes a compact development pattern for the City. PRINCIPLE T-1: The physical organization of the city will be supported by a framework of transportation alternatives that maximizes access and mobility throughout the city, while reducing dependence upon the private automobile. Policy T-1.1 Land Use Patterns. The City will implement land use patterns, parking policies, and demand management plans that support effective transit, an efficient roadway system, and alternative transportation modes. Appropriate residential densities and non-residential land uses should be within walking distance of transit stops, permitting public transit to become a viable PRINCIPLE T-2: Mass transit will be an integral part of the city's overall transportation system. PRINCIPLE T-4: Bicycling will serve as a viable alternative to automobile use for all trip purposes. PRINCIPLE T-5: The City will acknowledge pedestrian travel as a viable transportation mode and elevate it in importance to be in balance with all other modes. Direct pedestrian connections will be provided and encouraged from place of residence to transit, schools, activity centers, work and public facilities. The above transportation Principles and Policies are achieved by the proposed development in the following ways: 1.) The site is located in an area served by a well -connected pedestrian system. Pedestrians can access he proposed facility from a City sidewalk located on the west side of Snead Drive. The proposed project provides a sidewalk connection to the west side of Snead and will also provide a painted crosswalk at this location. Alternatively pedestrians can access this crosswalk through the Fossil Creek Design Center from College Avenue. April 21, 1998 Planning and Zoning Board Members Ted Shepard Fort Collins Planning Department 281 North College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80521 RE: Planning Objectives for Fort Collins/Loveland Water District Project Development Plan Dear Planning and Zoning Board Members: VF RIPLEY ASSOCIATES INC. Landscape Architecture Urban Design Planning 1113 Stoney Hill Drive Fort Collins. Colorado 80525 PHONE. (970) 224-5828 FAX 1970) 224-1662 The Fort Collins/Loveland Water District is proposing to build an 8,000 square foot office building on property located south of Fairway Lane and east of Snead Drive, directly east of the Fossil Creek Design Center. The building will be owned and occupied by the Fort Collins/Loveland Water District. The facility will include office space, meeting rooms, and an outdoor storage yard for vehicle maintenance and equipment storage. The storage yard is screened with a solid fence. Primary access to the site is from Snead Drive. Fosgil Ridge iiiie. Twenty-four parking spaces are provided for employees, customers, and visitors. Pedestrians can access the site from an existing sidewalk along Snead Drive or from a sidewalk that is located south of the Fossil Creek Design Center. The one-story building is oriented so that the main entrance faces southwest. The predominant architectural materials are masonry block and an exterior finish insulation system (E.F.I.S.) in earth tone colors. An entry plaza featuring special paving and bicycle parking is provided for use by employees and visitors. The site is landscaped utilizing xeriscape principles and drought tolerant plant material. The District's goal is to provide an example for its customers of how to conserve water in the landscape. Plant material is used to screen parking from public streets, provide shade, spring color and winter interest, to enhance the architecture and to soften the appearance of the screen wall surrounding the storage yard. WEST BUILDING ELEVATION SOUTH BUILDING ELEVATION V. •� • ' I' •� •' �• EAST BUILDING ELEVATION IIpR!N 9KAR1 T?!a W"INc SI.LYA"ONS .rn r 3 -5 PLANT LIST — -- MATERIAL 5?ORAO! - YARDAREA __,� ••��••— �•-.• •» (G�fPV01) PLANT NDTES " LOT 1 �(1 Z o \• "� 1.9C4t ACRES r � IPA er�AwioN •--� LEGM , wo; �_ati evIIIp�� �N S M VF RIPI.RY FM /yL 1POIDYELOD Men•m PUP p' im CMLPm CM13RAM IwNoVaPE PUN -- a n a o 2-5 m W AVWWTRATIVE APPROVAL OWIEROW OonWATM Ulm L YP RIFLRY FORT COLLNS/LOVELAND WATER DSMCI' PDP rRR srte ruv COLORADD '.. e ae e s fctie•r. ec 1-5 Vicinity Map 05/13/98 N #23-98 Fort Collins -Loveland Water District Type I (LUC) Project Development Plan 1" = 600' • t• I cue I (LUC) Project ueveloc City of Fort Collins Comm, Jty Planning and Environmenta. -rvices Current Planning MEMORANDUM TO: Planning and Zoning Board FROM: Ted Shepard, Senior Planner Ir DATE: November 19, 1998 RE: Fort Collins — Loveland Water District - Request for Modification Supplemental Finding at the Request of the City Attorneys Office The Fort Collins —Loveland Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 includes a request for a modification with respect to the General Development Standard 3.5.3 (B) (2) (b), also known as the "build -to line." The Code requires that the building be setback 15 feet. The P.D.P. indicates a setback of 26 feet resulting in a request for a modification for 11 feet of increased setback. In accordance with the Land Use Code, Section 2.7.3, (Modification of Standards), the modification is supported because the P.D.P. is found to advance or protect the public interests and purposes of the "build -to line" equally well or better than would a P.D.P. that places the building 11 feet back from property line because of- 1 . the inapplicability of the standard given geographic context of the site; 2. a smoother topographic transition for the connecting walkway; 3. the minimized disturbance to the natural grade. In order to comply with Section 2.7.3 that a supplemental finding be provided, please consider the following finding as an addendum to the Fort Collins — Loveland Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 Staff Memo: "H. The fact that there is no opportunity along the street to provide a continuous relationship among a group of buildings to establish a visually continuous street front, and the fact that an increase of 11 feet alleviates the need for a retaining wall, and the fact that the increased setback minimizes disturbance to the natural grade provides justification that that the P.D.P. meets the requirements of Section 2.7.3." 281 North College Avenue • P.O. Box 580 • Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 • (970) 221-6750 • FAX (970) 416-2020 Fort Collins-Lovelana Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 November 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 6 A. An office is a permitted use in the C, Commercial Zone District as an Administrative Review. B. The request for a modification requires that the P.D.P. be considered by the Planning and Zoning Board. C. General Development Standard 3.5.3 (B) (2) (b) requires that the building be no more than 15 feet set back from Snead Drive. D. The P.D.P. indicates a setback of 26 feet thus exceeding the specified distance by 11 feet. E. The applicant requests a modification from the standard based on the P.D.P. being better than would a plan which complies with the standard. F. Staff recommends approval of the request for modification of a standard based on the P.D.P. being neither detrimental to the public good nor impairing the intent and purpose of the Land Use Code. Further, Staff finds the P.D.P. will advance or protect the public interest and purposes of the "build -to line" standard equally well or better than would a plan which complies with the standard. G. The P.D.P. complies with other applicable General Development Standards and Zone District Standards. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends: A. Approval of the request for modification from General Development Standard 3.5.3 (B) (2) (b); and B. Approval of Fort Collins -Loveland Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98. Fort Collins-Lovelanu Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 November 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 5 of hill that slopes from north to south. This hill varies in steepness and runs from Fairway Estates down to Fossil Creek. The applicant states that: "Along Snead Drive within the 15 foot setback, the street elevation is 3.25 feet +/- higher than the building elevation. This situation is further complicated by the need for positive drainage away from the building and then returning to the higher elevations along Snead Drive. As a result, the building is left in the visually negative position of being lower than the road, and also a retaining wall would be required to address the changes in grade. A retaining wall at this location would be a detriment because the site would be cut off from the street." The applicant cites two benefits that would result if the modification is granted: (1.) By placing the building 11 feet further back, the need for the retaining wall is eliminated. This opens up the building to the external sidewalks and helps integrate the building with the surrounding neighborhood. (2.) The proposed building placement creates an opportunity to provide a more defined sense of entry to the building and helps contribute to the pedestrian -oriented space for the customers. Staff Evaluation: There are no other buildings along Snead Drive that establish a defined setback. Placing the building 26 feet back from right-of-way will not look odd or out of place. The topographic constraints are valid. The use of retaining walls should be discouraged wherever possible to minimize natural grade disturbance. Retaining walls between the building and public sidewalk is contrary to the purpose of the building orientation standards. Staff, therefore, finds that request for modification of 11 feet will advance the public interest and purpose of the "build -to line" standard equally well or better than would a plan which complies with the standard. Further, the granting of the modification would neither be detrimental to the public good nor impair the intent and purposes of the Land Use Code. 7. Findings of Fact/Conclusion: In evaluating the P.D.P, Staff makes the following findings of fact: Fort Collins-Lovelano Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 November 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 4 B. Building Orientation As mentioned, the primary fagade faces Snead Drive with a direct pedestrian connection to the street without requiring all pedestrians to walk through parking lots or cross driveways. C. Outdoor Storage Areas The request includes an enclosed outdoor storage yard for materials and equipment. The screen wall is six feet in height and is constructed of similar concrete block material and color to match the building elevation. The outdoor storage yard is completely enclosed so that the visual and acoustic impacts are fully contained and out of view from adjacent properties and public streets. 6. Build -To Line — Modification Request: The Land Use Code addresses the relationship of buildings to streets, walkways and parking. Specifically, under General Development Standard 3.5.3 (B) (2) (b), the Code requires: "Buildings shall be located no more than 15 feet from the right-of-way of an adjoining street if the street is smaller than a full arterial or has on - street parking." Since Snead Drive is smaller than a full arterial, and since the building is set back 26 feet from the right-of-way, a modification is requested (see attached). The Planning and Zoning Board is empowered to grant modifications to the General Development Standards contained in Article Three. A modification request may be granted if the P & Z Board determines and finds that: A. The granting of the modification would neither be detrimental to the public good nor impair the intent and purposes of the Land Use Code; and B. The plan as submitted will advance or protect the public interests and purposes of the standard for which the modification is requested equally well or better than would a plan which complies with the standard for which a modification is requested. The applicant states that existing site conditions dictate the placement of the building 11 feet further back from Snead than required. The site is on the middle Fort Collins-Lovelana Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 November 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 3 4. General Development Standards: Compliance with the applicable general development standards of Article Three is achieved. The P.D.P., however, is also accompanied by a request for a modification to the "build -to line" standard. The applicable standards are discussed below. A. Landscaping Street trees are provided in the parkway strip between the curb and sidewalk. These trees are uniformly spaced and comply with the separation requirements from public streetlights. The screen wall for the yard area is landscaped along the west and south elevations. The parking lot is landscaped especially along the south the property line. B. Access, Circulation and Parking A sidewalk will be constructed along Snead Drive. There is a direct connecting sidewalk between the public walk on Snead Drive to the building's main entrance, with no intervening street or drive aisle. The number of parking stalls does not exceed the maximum of 3.00 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area. C. Site Lighting A Lighting Plan has been submitted and indicates that on -site lighting will not spill off -site nor exceed the required foot-candles for illumination. 5. Building and Project Compatibility: A. Architecture, Size, Height, Bulk, Mass, Scale and Materials There is no predominant architectural character in the immediate vicinity. The materials, color and scale of the Fossil Creek Design Center may be appropriate for South College Avenue frontage but these elements would not be compatible for Snead Drive. The proximity of two residential neighborhoods dictates that the proposed office building take on more subtle characteristics. To this end, the office is an under -stated one-story building with a pitched roof, column -supported entry feature. The materials are mostly split -face concrete block with brick accents. The covered entry features a dark green, standing seam metal roof. The siding on the west and south elevations includes windows and panels of scored concrete which act as a contrast to the split -face concrete. Other than the entry, the building features a flat roof. Fort Collins-Lovelana Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 November 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 2 COMMENTS: Background: The surrounding zoning and I and uses are as follows: N: (County) E-1; Existing Residential (Fairway Estates) S: C; Vacant E: (County) R; Existing Residential (Fossil Creek Meadows) W: C; Existing Retail (Fossil Creek Design Center) The subject property was included in a larger tract that was annexed in 1984 as two sequential annexations known as Fossil Creek First and Second Annexations. There has been no previous development activity on this parcel. 2. Land Use: As mentioned, the site is located in the C, Commercial Zone District. This zone allows offices as an Administrative (Type One) Review. Since a modification is needed to the specified "build -to line," the P.D.P. is forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Board. 3. District Standards: In the C, Commercial, Zone District, there is only one applicable standard. This standard requires that: "Pedestrian -oriented outdoor spaces shall be placed next to activity areas that generate the users (such as street corners, shops, stores, offices, day care and dwellings). Because liveliness created by the presence of people is the main key to the attractiveness of such spaces, to the maximum extent feasible, the development shall link outdoor spaces to and make them visible from streets and sidewalks. Sculpture, kiosks or shelters are encouraged to be prominently placed in outdoor spaces." The P.D.P. is a single -building development for a small office building on a small lot. The P.D.P. satisfies this criterion by orienting the building entrance to the corner of Snead Drive and the parking lot drive aisle. The building entrance along Snead Drive allows for high visibility for customers. This entry and orientation meet the intent of locating pedestrian -oriented outdoor spaces next to the activity areas that generate the users (customers) of the office building. eo�"N ITEM NO. 5 MEETING DATE 11 19 98 STAFF Ted Shepard Citv of Fort Collins PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD STAFF REPORT PROJECT: Fort Collins -Loveland Water District Office Building, Project Development Plan, #23-98 APPLICANT: Fort Collins -Loveland Water District c/o V-F Ripley Associates, Inc. 1113 Stoney Hill Drive Fort Collins, CO 80525 OWNER: Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge Number Three 6813 South College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80525 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a request for a Project Development Plan for an 8,000 square foot office building located on 2.14 acres. The site is located on the east side of Snead Drive, south of Fairway Estates, north of Fossil Creek Meadows and east of the Fort Collins Design Center. The parcel is zoned C, Commercial. The request is being considered under the Land Use Code. RECOMMENDATION: Approval EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: An office building is a permitted use in the C, Commercial, Zone District. The P.D.P. complies with the one applicable development standard in the Commercial Zone. The P.D.P. also complies with the applicable general development standards with one exception. A request for modification to allow the building to be setback 26 feet as opposed to 15 feet from Snead Drive has been submitted. Staff recommends approval of the modification of the "build -to line" based on topographic constraints and provision of pedestrian amenities, and the P.D.P. being equal to or better than a plan that would have met the standard. COMMUNITY PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES 281 N. College Ave. P.O. Box580 Fort Collins, CO80522-0580 (970)221-6750 PLANNING DEPARTMENT