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Home My WebLink AboutVISITOR'S CENTER AT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER - ANNEXATION & ZONING - 3-98 - REPORTS - FIRST READING1 ® POUDRE RIVER ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING DISTRICTo i Jurisdictional Boundaries Legend Ch, a F. r llw w..1.rr • h...r9 �..tlN Calm& SWc Uni.CRily � Ow.r Fw Collin �`r um Frnn FnwW • 1.11w 1997 Poudre River Environmental learning District Access to the Boxelder Sanitation District facility and the Archery Range will connect to this primaryroad system A secondary road system will be necessary to provide an alternate route for emergenryservices. This road follows the western edge of the upper bench, crosses Boxelder Creek and meets Prospect approximately halfway between the frontage road and SummitYewDrive. Use ofthesouthemportionofthis road- way should be discouraged as it creates somewhat of a barrier between the development on the upper bench and the open space associated with the river. This portion of the road may be more appropriately designed as a fire lane or service drive. The northern loop of the secondary roadway provides necessary access to the Environmental Education Development site that has been identified as a possible location for a horticulture center, as well as the visitor Center/ELC Headquarters. The sizes of the roadways have not been determined. 17 Conceptual Land Use Plan interior location on the site. The upper bench of the existing Resource Recovery Farm affords appealing views to the river, foothills and mountains, making this location particularly attmc- tive for offices. This area should also serve as a model ofhow to sensitively develop an office and light industrial complex Site Service/Maintenance One area has been designated for developing maintenance facilities forthe district This "site servicelmaintenancC area may include community composting and recycling bins, mainte- nance equipment, offices and other service functions. The architectural character of any structures and screen fencing should be compatible with nearby structures. The area should have the same sensitive high quality design as the other devel- oped areas. Historic Sites Three historic sites have been identified on the Conceptual Land Use Plan: the 1870 Rigden Farmstead, the Sherwood Stage Stop site and the Strauss Cabin Interpretive signage and benches should be provided at all of these locations. Private Lands Low -Density Neighborhood This area is planned to be a low -density residential neighbor- hood. Connections to the open space area and the multi- purpose trail should be provided. Open space should be inte- grated into the development with fingers of naturalized landscap- ing, so that the edge of the development is softened. Circulation Two levels of roadway are shown on the Conceptual Land Use Plan. The primary road system begins at the frontage road intersection on Prospect Road, veers southeast to the eastern edge of the property and loops around to itself on the southern end of the Research and Development/ Office land use area. 16 Poudre River Environmental Learning District Development should also maintain views and wildlife habitat areas. Only those organizations that can demonstrate compat- ibility with the vision forthe Poudre River Environmental Learn- ing District should be allowed to develop within the area. De- sign guidelines for architecture, landscaping and signage should be developed to ensure harmorrythroughout the district devel- oped areas, inciudingthe Environmental Education, Regional Commercial, Research and DevelopmentlOffice areas, Site Service/Maintenance and Historic Sites. Environmental Education Development The areas designated "Environmental Education Development" are lands that are anticipated to be developed by a public, quasi -public or non-profit organization for the purposes of education and/or research They maybe modified landscapes, such as a horticultural center or xeriscape demonstration garden, ormore highly developed, like ascience museum, geological rock park, aquarium or IMAX theater. It is anticipated that these uses may require a large number of parking spaces. They should be developed sensitively in the manner suggested above. Regional Commercial The Regional Commercial area includes uses such as service stations, retail shops, hotels and highway conveniences, and is intended to serve travelers along I-25 as well as people who live in the region. Warehousing is not allowed. The area between the frontage road and the I-25 interchange is easily accessible by vehicles and should serve as an example of how to sensitively develop commercial property with respect to the issues de- scribed above. Only those businesses that demonstrate compat- ibility with the vision for the district should be allowed to de- velop within the Regional Commercial area Research and Developmendo8ce The Research and Development/Office area includes uses such as professional offices, high technology companies and clean industry. These uses will not generate as much traffic as the Regional Commercial area and are more appropriate for a more is Conceptual Land'Use Plan south of the U.P. tracks. Open Space lands are primarily in the 100-year floodplain or along drainages with the exception of the lower bench of the Resource Recovery Farm. This lower bench was not considered to be desirable for development because ofits value as abuffer to the ELC, potential gravel resources and wildlife habitat source. Gravel extraction may still occur on other Open Space lands as needed and where appro- priate given the sensitivity of the natural resources. Night fighting is not permitted within Open Space areas Park or Landscape Buffer The areas designated "Park or Landscape Buffer" are open lands that may have landscaping that is not native in order to accommodate higher use levels, or to provide noise and visual screening of the interstate highway. The Archery Range cur- rently exists as a public park and no changes are anticipated to this property. The Strauss Cabin is envisioned to be primarily a naturally landscaped site, however, it may contain some irrigated turf areas for field sports (unlighted and minimally programmed), picnic structures, historic interpretation and paved trans. Land- scaped buffers and entry features are envisioned at the Prospect entrance and along I-25. This landscaping should complement the site landscaping of the developments within the District and should present a low water -use approach Night lighting should be limited to parking areas, main walkways and selected use areas, and should be designed to minimize glare and light spill- age. Developed Lands These lands are designated primarily along 1-25 and Prospect Road and may be developed by public or private organizations. In all cases the most current technology for developing a prop- erty in asustainable manner should be employed. Local con- struction materials should be used. Accommodations for transit systems should be incorporated into the layout. Bicycles and pedestrians should take priority over vehicles. Storm water drainage should not be piped unless absolutely necessary. Pavements should be permeable if feasible. Solar energy should be utilized. Irrigated landscapes should be kept to a minimum. 14 Poudre River Environmental Learning District Open Lands Amajority ofthe district is designated as open lands, including the outdoor education core, open space and park or landscape buffers. These green areas are differentiated based on their intensity of development, public use, trails and management Outdoor Education Core Ile areas designated as "Outdoor Education Core" are the heart ofthe outdoor environmental education experience and should be designed and developed to accommodate large groups and provide on -site interpretive materials. The Outdoor Education Core provides the link between the proposed ELC headquarters/visitor Center on Prospect Road with the educa- tional trail and facilities on the other side of the river at the existing main entrance. In the center of the core an interpretive amphitheater is proposed. Of all the open lands in the district, the Outdoor Education Core is the most developed, and is anticipated to have the highest level of public use. The extension of the City's multi- purpose trail along Prospect Road can be accommodated along the northern edge ofthe Outdoor Education Core. Lighting of selected destinations may be appropriate within the Outdoor Education Core, however, the fixtures should be designed to Minimize glare and light spillage beyond the area intended to be lighted. Open Space The areas designated "Open Space" are lands that are to remain in a Pnman7y natural condition or in agriculnual use. Priorityin these areas is placed on conserving and studying the natural resources and performing research over providing access to the public. Therefore, trails should be carefully sited along the river and only foot traffic (no bicycles) should be permitted in the areas immediately adjacent to the river: The construction of a rail fence and an entrance stile may be necessary to ensure that bicycles do not enter this area The City multi -purpose trail is Shown Ping through less sensitive open space areas along Boxelder Creek and near the southern edge of the open space 13 conceptual Land Use Plan Conceptual Based on workshops with the City of Fort Collins, CSU and Land Use Plan otherindividuals who are interested in specific educational facilities within the district, EDAW, Inc. developed a Conceptual Land Use Plan for the district The plan at the end of this document illustrates the land use concept and the land use categories are defined below. Each is intended to define the focus of the area, including the types ofLuilities, targeted users and managemen---aintenance goals. The amount of area dedicated to each use is shown on the table below landUseAc eageTable Land Use !Acre2geLad Use CSU City Private Total (aa) (ac.) (ac) (ac.)• Percent Regional Commercial 0 24 0 24 1.9Yo R&D/Office Park 0 50 0 50 3.90K Open Space 103 199 467 769 60.6% Outdoor Education Core 92 16 69 177 13.9% Park or Landscape Butler 0 11 27 38 3.00/6 Environmental Education Devet 5 60 3 68 5.4% Historic Site 1 2 1 4 0.3% Site Service/ Maintenance 13 2 0 33 0.3% Low Density Nei hborbood 0 0 125 1251 9.8% Total 202.3 364 692 12583 'Tool acreage does not include the Archery Range. Boxeider sanitation District Arapahoe Bend or areas west of County Road 9. 12 Poudre River Environmental Learning District intended to provide locations for a variety of workplaces, including light industrial uses, research and development activi- ties, offices and institutions, as well as supportive secondary uses such as hotels, resiaurartts, convenience shopping, child care and housing. The Public Open Lands District is for large publicly owned parks and open lands which have.a community - wide emphasis. The Land Use Code also shows land along Prospect Road zoned as Transition District where the only permitted uses are those existing at the date of the plan adop- tion. Most ofthe Poudre RiverEnvironmental Learning District that is within city limits is zoned as River Conservation District, where the City requires preservation of identified natural areas and a 300 foot setback for development adjacent to the river. In this zone buildings can be a maximum of two stories and a 50 foot landscape setback from streets is required Federal Emergency ManagementAgency (FEMA), Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), (1996) The Site Inventory map shows the area in the 100-year flood - plain according to recent FEMA maps (March 1996). All development in the floodplain must occur on pads that elevate the development 18" above the flood elevation, and no develop- ment (fill within the floodplain) is allowed that would cause more than a 6" rise in the flood elevation by constricting the floodplain. Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan (1997) The Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan was recently adopted by City Council Final versions have not yet been printed This document indicates that an open space corridor along the Poudre River is desirable and that the multi -purpose paved trail should continue from the ELC to the south, generally along the Poudre River corridor. Additional provisions for natural surface trails parallel to.the paved trail should be consid- ered to provide alternative recreational experiences for commu- nity residents as well as lessening conflicts that are currently occurring on the trail system between walkers, in -line skaters and bicyclists. The Strauss Cabin Park Preserve, discussed earlier in this document, is. also described in more detail in the plan. II ConceptualLandUsePlan ' surroundingI-25 is anticipaied to experience major increases in traffic volumes as well as additional development in the next 10 to 20 years. The streetscape plan looks at the Prospect corri- dor in sections. The "Interchange Style" applies to the area from I-25 to Boxelder Creek This style reinforces the quad- rants as a single large space with street trees lining the frontage roads that form the perimeter. Landscaping at the interchange itself should be progressively shorter near the top of the ramps to allow for views and to respect the open character of the surrounding landscape. _ The "Prospect Gateway Style" applies to the area between Boxelder Creek and Summit View Drive. Landscaping themes for the roadway here are based on hedgerows/windbreaks and tree groves that are characteristic ofhistoric farmsteads in this region. Where possible along Prospect Road double rows of trees symbolic of windbreaks,, fence rows and other lines in the rural landscape should be planted parallel to the roadway. Breaks should be provided for views and to provide variety. Groves of trees should also be planted near structures and site featmrs, with the remaining landscape being relatively open. The "Natural Shrubscape Style" applies to the area between Summit Yew Drive and the Poudre River, which is basically river bottom. The Prospect Road Streetscape Program indi- cates that this area should be landscaped in a natural fashion if developed, with native riparian and drought -tolerant shrubs as dominant species. Fort Collins CITY PLAN (1997) This planning effort for the Poudre River Environmental Learning District was reviewed with City staff and the CITY PLAN is consistent with the land use plan that has been proposed here. The Land Use Code element, adopted March 28, 1997, indi- cates that within the district land along Interstate 25 is zoned as Commercial, Employment, and Public Open Lands Districts. The Commercial District is intended to be asetting for commu- nity and regional retail uses, offices and personal and business services. It should emphasize safe and convenient mobility for pedestrians as well as automobiles. The Employment District is Poudre River Environmental Learning District Eadsting Policy The following plans and policies have been considered in the Dil:'t:ction preparation ofthe Conceptual Land Use Plan: • Natural Areas Policy Plan (1992) • Prospect Road Streetscape Plan —An element of the Fort Collins Comprehensive Plan (1993) • Fort Collins CrMLAN (1997) • Flood lrmsurance Rate Maps, prepared by the Federal Emergency ManagementAgency (City ofFort Collins StortwaterUtility) • City ofFort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan (1997) The City ofFort Collins Long Range Planning Office staff have indicated that the above documents are the only plans and policies that are relevant in the study area Other planning efforts (i e., stormwater improvements for the Poudre River Drainageway) are still in progress. This conceptual land use plan precedes those efforts. NaturalAmas Policy Plan (1992) The Natural Areas Policy Plan was developed to inventory Significant natural areas in the Urban Growth Area and recom- mend alternative strategies and actions to conserve and enhance these areas. This plan recognizes the value of the great blue heron rookery south of the ELC and states, "Protection of this site is imperative because herons do not readily use a new nest site once the nest trees are destroyed." p.4-20. The plan also recommends enhancements to gravel ponds, control of exotic species, enhancements to riparian area and an interpretive themes of man's use of water, changes in natural habitats or successional patterns after mining. The plan also contains goals, objectives and policies regarding such things as management, recreation and public information. Prospect Road Streetscape Program (1993) The Prospect Road Streetscape Program is a management plan aimed at upgrading the visual quality of this major entryway into the City. The Prospect Corridor and the interchange area Conceptnal Land Use Plan the river has a 10-foot drop from the bench adjacent to I-25 to the floodplain and lower terraces along the river. Boxelder Creek flows from Prospect Road, near the frontage road, to the south just below the western edge of this upper bench Except for the river walls and their associated steep slopes, the majority of the district is characterized by virtu- ally flat ground that is typical of river bottoms. The Poudre River, Boxelder Creek and their associated riparian habitats, gravel ponds and wetlands, as well as spectacular mountain views give the district high natural resource and scenic values. Some small relics of native prairie can also be found. The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas PoIiry Plan (1992) indicates Aquatic, Marsh and Wet Meadow, Riparian Forest, Grassland and Urban Plains Forest habitat types in the area These are shown on the Site Inventory map and are explained in more detail in the City's Natural Areas PoIiry Plan. Historically the area was a plains grassland with riparian habitats limited to the wettest areas near the river channel or in old oxbows. Agriculture and gravel extraction has changed the area substantially, and in some respects has provided additional habitat for aquatic and riparian species, and recreational oppor- tunities through the creation of ponds and additional wetlands. Only a very small portion of the plains grasslands exists; it is located at the southern tip of the Resource Recovery Fart. Cottonwoods and willows are the predominant trees along the river and ponds. Some introduced species also appear due to urban influences and proximity to developments. The river corridor and diverse natural vegetation provides rich wildlife nesting and feeding areas. Many mammals take advan- tage of the habitat along the river and relative protection from the negative impacts associated with more intense public use. These species include deer, beaver, muskrats and raccoons. Many bird species, such as bald eagles, great blue herons and great homed owls can also be spotted in the area Just south of the existing Environmental Learning Center is a Heron Rookery'. Furthermore, marry fish and reptiles reside in the river, numerous ponds and wetlands. Poudre River Environmental Learning District Union Pacific Railroad The UP. Railroad owns and operates a rail line that traverses the southern one-half of the district from northwest to southeast This line is used for transporting freight and is used twice a day at most The line presents a major circulation and visual barrier between the river and properties to the south Its presence combined with the lack of trails and facilities contribute signifi- cantly to. the low level of public use on the south side of the river between County Road 9 and Interstate 25. Western Mobile has constructed a conveyor system over the track in the vicinity of the historic Sherwood Overland Trail Stage Stop site to trans- portmined materials to their south site, nearer their headquarters and aushing operations. Adjacent Land Uses Little of the land surrounding the district has been developed. The majority is still used for agricultural purposes or has been preserved as Natural Areas by the City ofFort Collins. The City Natural Areas that are adjacent to the district include: Prospect Ponds (25 acres), W.R.E.N. Pit (48 acres), Arapahoe Bend (278 acres), and Riverbend Ponds (219 acres). The Archery Range, which is within the district, is also classified as a Natural Area and was mentioned earlier. Areas that have been developed adjacent to the Poudre River Environmental Learning District include the City of Fort Collins Wastewater Treatment Facility to the west and low -density residential properties along Summit Yew Drive to the north Future commercial develop- ment, including retail businesses and hotels, is planned near the Prospect Road/1-25 interchange. Natural Features Most of the district is located within the Poudre River valley (approximate elevation 4,900 feet at this site), defined by the river walls (steeper slopes) on either side. The eastern wall of the river has a 10-foot drop from the bench adjacent to I-25 to the floodplain and lower terraces along the river. Boxelder Creek flows from Prospect Road, near the frontage road, to the south just below the western edge of this upper bench. Except ConceptxW andUsePlan Larimer County owns and operates the facility and has devel- oped an access road, gravel parking lot, natural surface trails and interpretive signage. This site and adjacent land to the west have been identified in the City ofFort Collins Parks and Recre- ation Policy Plan as a Park preserve, that may include additional educational exhibits, picnic facilities, resitr000ms and limited improved turf areas for use by the community. Larimer County and the City have discussed the possibility of transferring re- sponsibrlity ofthis site to the City. Boxelder Sanitation District Water Treatment Facility Boxelder Sanitation District has a water treatment fatality lo- cated south of the Resource Recovery Farm on the north side of the river. As mentioned earlier, access to this site is through the City's land and must be maintained as an access easement The site is approximately 27 acres and is fairly well screened from view by vegetation. Private Properties A significant portion of the land along Prospect Road and virtually the entire southern half of the district is owned privately. The majority of this land has or will be mined for gravel. Recla- mation of the lands nearest prospect Road and the lands south of the Poudre near the archery range is planned to occur in the next several years. Mming in other areas may continue for as long as fifteen more years. An historic site, the Sherwood Stage Stop site, is located near the ELC on private property that is planned for gravel extraction. This stage stop was along the Overland Trail, which ran parallel to both sides of the river in many locations. A Great Blue Heron rookery is also located immediately south of the ELC in an area that has been targeted for gravel extraction. The city and CSU are working with the landowner to determine if these important resources can be preserved. Low density residential development is envisioned south ofthe existing Western Mobile Headquarters. Along Prospect Road there are several residences and a landscape construction and maintenance company that must be considered. Poudre River Environmental Learning District extend the trail to Greeley as part of the larger regional tram system Clearly the location of the trail beyond the ELC will be an important factor to consider in this land use plan. A natural surface trail begins from the northern edge of the ELC parking lot as well, crossing a footbridge to a looped trail system through the ELC. Amajor ditch, which diverts water from the Poudre River to Fossil Creek Reservoir forms the western edge ofthe primaryELC campus. The diversion structure itselfis located on the ELC property. A secondary informal access is located off Prospect Road, near a recently constructed fishing pier. CSU also owns a five -acre parcel further east on Prospect Road that will be developed as a joint Visitor Center and Environmental Learning Center Head- quarters. Partners in this effort include the Colorado State Parks and the City of Fort Collins Convention and Visitors Bureau This location has been envisioned as a new entrance to the ELC, however CSU does not own the land between the 5 acre parcel and the existing ELC lands. The majority of the ELC property is separated from the city property by a privately -owned, gravel access road that runs from Prospect Road, across the Poudre River to gravel mining activities south of the site. Asmall portion of the ELC site is also located on the eastern side of this road. Currently, the road is used only for ELC maintenance. ArcheryRange The City ofFort Collins owns and operates an approximately 50-acre site south of the Resource Recovery Farm as an ar- chery Lange. The site is primarily in a naturalized condition with improvements limited to restrooms, parking lot and archery targets. The site is depressed in elevation from I-25 and is not readily visible. Strauss Cabin The Strauss Cabin is a 2-acre historic site located at the south- eastern edge of the district at the end of Horsetooth Road. Conceptual band Use Plan CSUEnvironmental Learning Center The Colorado State Board ofAgriculture land in the northwest- ern portion of the district currently serves as the CSU Environ- mental Learning Center, an outdoor laboratory for research and education on natural and cultural systems. The majority ofthis property is in the floodplain and contains wonderful examples of native riparian habitats. Some of this property was previously mined and is now being restored to a native condition CSU has owned the ELC property for more than 35 years. Until the past 6 or 7 years it has been operated as a nature preserve. In recentyears visitation, programming and facility development has increased siguficantty For example, in 1992 there were approximately 20,000 visitors to the ELC. In 1995 there were 81,000 visitors. The mission of the ELC is "to advance environmental stewardship among students and the community through opportunities for experiential leaming, self study and educational programs." Programs at the ELC not only include environmental education but service leaming pro grams as well. Recent participants include Americorp, ayouth service group and CSU students. The ELC serves an important role in the community, providing education and passive recre- ation to a wide constituency The main access to the facility is currently located at the inter- section ofDrake Road and County Road 9, via a private gravel road. At the headquarters, CSU has developed asmall office/ visitor center building, information kiosk, picric shelter, restrooms, 25-car parking lot, and raptor cage that houses several injured golden and bald eagles, owls and hawks. A caretaker residence is also located here. South of the ELC headquarters and caretaker's residence is the historic 1870 Rigden Farmstead. Many structures are still standing. The City's multi -purpose trail system ends at the ELC parking lot Currently the trail goes from the ELC to Taft Frill Road on the western side of the City, approximately 7 miles away. The City plans to extend the trail to the Strauss Cabin and ultimately further south to Harmorrf Road, however the exact location of the trail has not been determined. Long range plans are to Poudre River Environmental Learning District Resource Recovery Farm and provides access to an area that is currently being mined for gravel- Another bridge crosses Boxelder Creek, providing access to the lower, western -most fields on the Resource Recovery Farm site. The Resource Recovery Farm is irrigated through a network of ditches that transport untreated water. A major ditch, the San Dike Irrigation Ditch, flows southwest from 1-25 to the southern edge of the site, whereupon it crosses I-25 again to deliver irrigation water to other users downstream. This ditch may be somewhat of a development constraint, depend- ing upon the parcelization of the property, however it offers the potential for continued use of raw water for irrigation, a practice that should be incorporated in the Poudre River Environmental Learning District. Platte River Power Author- ity has a 100-foot easement for high voltage transmission lines that run east to west across the entire district. No structures or tall tress may be placed under these lines. The upper bench along Interstate 25 is highly visible to travelers, making the real estate commercially valuable. Thus, the north- east comer of the plan area, by Prospect Road and I-25, is prime commercial property because it is accessible and visible. The visual quality of this area is also critical to the overall image of the Poudre River Environmental Learning District and the City of Fort Collins, and should be carefully designed to express the values of the City and the District. The lower bench area is a moderately visible zone with less access, but much of the land is not in the floodplain and could potentially be developed. According to City personnel, the Resource Recovery Farm property will be available for development within four or five years (approximately the year 2001). However, part of the land along the Frontage Road might be available for development sooner. The City's goal is to recoup their costs for the property through leasing or selling a portion of the site for development,. allowing the remainder to stay in open space or to be developed for other public uses. Use Plan Planning consultants and other community organizations during 1996 and 1997. The planning team determined that the location ofthe plan area and its natural qualities present an outstanding opportuniryfor residents ofFort Collins to make astatement about their values for nature and the quality of development dented in and around their city. It could become the -Environ- mental Entry" to the City, demonstrating how development can occur in an environmentally friendly manner. It also sets the stage for a partnership of environmental education organizations, such as the CSUEnviromnental Learning Center, ahorticultural center and a science discovery center. Etc Two s Site Inventory and Site maps, rY Analysis, have been pre - Conditions pared to illustrate major site features and characteristics that influenced the development of the land use plan. These are located at the end ofthe text portion of this document Existing Land Use Within The District Of the approximately 1,200 acres in the district, 560 acres are in public ownership. Fort Collins owns approximately 360 acres on the northeastern portion of the site, and CSU owns approximately 200 acres on the northwestern portion of the site. Almost 700 acres of the planning area is in private ownership, a majority of which has been, is currently, or is planned to be mined for gravel Resource Recovery Farm The City of Fort Collins Water Utilities Department is currently using their property as an experimental agricultural site for applying waste water sludge: The Resource Recovery Farrn, as it is called, has several structures on site, including a large three - sided composting facility, a caretaker residence, offices and garages and several outbuildings. Access is from Prospect Road via a two lane paved or gravel road that circles the upper, eastern -most portion of the site. These roads continue south and west, providing the only access to the Boxelder Sanitation District water treatment facility and the City Archery Range. A bridge crosses the Poudre River at the southern edge of the Poudre River Environmental Learning District TAtrod11Ct10I1- The Poudre River Environmental Leaming District is located in Fort Collins, Colorado, a city of approximately 100,000 people and the home of Colorado State University (CSU). More than 1,200 acres of natural and reclaimed land and wildlife habitat serve as the backdrop for a unique blending of resource values . and facilities that emphasize science and the environment to provide a recreational, hands-on, interactive student and family learning experience. The possibilities spark the imagination, with a visitor center, CSUEnvironmental Learning Center, commu- nity horticulture center, science museum and much more. Ad- joining land parcels target businesses with interests and products that complement the goals of the learning district. The 1,200 acre district spans both sides of the Cache La Poudre River (Poudre River) which is arguably one of the most sigaificant natural landscapes in the region. The planning area includes property owned by CSU, the City ofFort Collins and private individuals, and is immediately adjacent to Interstate 25. The map entitled Jurisdictional Boundaries shows the extent of the planning area and land ownership. Because of its high visibility to local, state and interstate travelers, the appearance of development that occurs in the district and the preservation of views to the Poudre River will be critical to the image and visual quality of the community. Specifically, the district is defined as the area west ofI-25, south ofProspect Road, east of County Road 9 and north of Horsetooth Road. It encompasses approximately 1 % mile of the Poudre River, and includes portions of Boxelder Creek, numerous ponds, natural and constructed wetlands and relics of natural prairie, as well as irrigated agricultural lands and afew private residences. Although portions of the district have not been annexed into the City of Fort Collins, the entire district is within the City ofFort Collins Urban Growth Area. This means that Larimer County will refer all development proposals to the City for comments and developments must adhere to city design standards. This land use plan for the Poudre River Environmental Learning District resulted from a collaboration between Colorado State . University, the City ofFort Collins Water Utilities Department, Poudre River Environmental Learning District Table. of Contents Section Page Introduction......... _.................................................................. Existing Conditions ............... ExistingPolicyDirection ................ _.......... Conceptual Land Use Plan.* ................ List of Tables Land Use Acreage Table .............................. List of Maps SiteInventory .................................................. .................. 18 Site Analysis ............... Jurisdictional Boundaries .:................................... ................. 20 Conceptual Land Use Plan ..................................................... 2I J Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan Prepared for: Colorado State University City of Fort Collins F-DAW, Inc. April 1997 Vicinity Map VISITOR CENTER AT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER ANNEXATION AND ZONING 01/09/98 N 1" =1000' The Visitors Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation & Zoning, #3-98 February 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 4 RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Planning and Zoning Board forward a recommendation to the City Council to approve the Visitor's Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation with a zoning of POL-Public Open Lands. The Visitors Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation & Zoning, #3-98 February 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 3 FINDINGS OF FACTICONCLUSION: 1. The annexation of this area is consistent with the policies and agreements between Larimer County and the City of Fort Collins, as contained in the Intergovernmental Agreement for the Fort Collins Urban Growth Area. 2. The area meets all criteria included in State law to qualify for annexation by the City of Fort Collins. 3. The requested POL-Public Open Lands zone district is in conformance with the policies of the City's Comprehensive Plan and the City Structure Plan. The Visitors Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation & Zoning, #3-98 February 19, 1998 P & Z Meeting Page 2 COMMENTS: 1 .. Backarou_nd The surrounding zoning and land uses are as follows: N: County FA -Farming; C; E; LMN; UE (Interstate Lands Rezoning) -primarily vacant S: RC; Environmental Learning Center site E: C; vacant W: County FA -Farming; vacant The Visitor's Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation is approximately 5 acres in size, located south of Prospect Road (to the west of the Resource Recovery Farm). The site was identified in the Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan (April 1997) as the future location for the Visitor's Center. (A copy of that plan is attached for reference.) The construction of the Visitor's Center is a joint project among the City of Fort Collins, Colorado State University, and the State of Colorado. It is anticipated that construction on the Visitor's Center could start in spring, 1998, with completion in the spring of 1999. This is a voluntary annexation, located within the Urban Growth Area of the City of Fort Collins. The City may annex property located within the Urban Growth Area Boundary (UGA), provided that the property has 1/6th contiguity with the existing City boundary. According to the policies and agreements between the City of Fort Collins and Larimer County outlined in the Intergovernmental Agreement for the Urban Growth Area, the City will agree to consider for annexation property in the UGA whenever the property is eligible for annexation according to State law. The proposed Environmental Learning Center Annexation does comply with this requirement. 2. Zoning The proposed zoning for the annexation is the POL, Public Open Lands zone district. The POL zone is for large, publicly -owned parks and open lands which have a community -wide emphasis or other characteristic which warrant inclusion under this separate designation rather than inclusion in an adjoining neighborhood or other district designation. The POL zone district designation is consistent with the policies of the City's Comprehensive Plan and the City Structure Plan and is compatible with the existing uses and surrounding zoning. ITEM NO. 4 \MEETING DATE 3/5/98 ST.-I=F Leanne Harter2 City of Fort Collins PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD STAFF REPORT PROJECT: Visitor's Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation and Zoning, #3-98 APPLICANT: Colorado State University OWNERS: Colorado State University PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is the voluntary annexation and zoning of an area of approximately 5 acres in size, located south of Prospect Road, north of the existing Environmental Learning Center. The site is owned by Colorado State University and the primary use will be the Visitor's Center at the Environmental Learning Center. The proposed zoning for this annexation is POL-Public Open Lands zone district. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the annexation and zoning of POL-Public Open Lands zone district. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This is the voluntary annexation and zoning of an area of approximately 5 acres in size, located south of Prospect Road, north of the existing Environmental Learning Center. The site is owned by Colorado State University and the primary use will be the Visitor's Center at the Environmental Learning Center. .The proposed zoning for this annexation is POL-Public Open Lands zone district. COMMUNITY PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, 251N.CoIlegeAee. POA!ox7S(l FortcollFn,.CC%SD PLANNING DEPARTMENT Passed and adopted on final reading this 7th.day of April, A.D. 1998. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk Section 3. That the Director of Engineering is hereby authorized and directed to amend said Zoning Map in accordance with this Ordinance. Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 17th day of March, A.D. 1998, and to be presented for final passage on the 7th day of April, A.D. 1998. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk Passed and adopted on final reading this 7th day of April, A.D. 1998. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk ORDINANCE NO. 45, 1998 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS AND CLASSIFYING FOR ZONING PURPOSES THE PROPERTY INCLUDED IN THE VISITORS' CENTER AT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER ANNEXATION TO THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO WHEREAS, Division 1.3 of the Land Use Code of the City of Fort Collins establishes the Zoning Map and Zone Districts of the City; and WHEREAS, Division 2.8 of the Land Use Code of the City of Fort Collins establishes procedures and criteria for reviewing the zoning of land; and WHEREAS, in accordance with the foregoing, the Council has considered the zoning of the property which is the subject of this ordinance, and has determined that the.said property should be zoned as hereafter provided. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the Zoning Map of the City of Fort Collins adopted pursuant to Section 1.3.2 of the Land Use Code of the City of Fort Collins be, and the same hereby is, changed and amended by including the property known as the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation to the City of FortCollins, Colorado, in the Public Open Lands (P-O-L) Zone District, which property is more particularly described as situate in the County of Larimer, State of Colorado, to wit: A TRACT OF LAND LOCATED IN THE NE 1/4 OF SECTION 21, TOWNSHIP 7 NORTH, RANGE 68 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, LARIMER COUNTY, COLORADO, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: CONSIDERING THE NORTH LINE OF THE NE 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 21 AS BEARING S88013'20"E AND WITH ALL BEARINGS CONTAINED HEREIN RELATIVE THERETO: COMMENCING AT THE N 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION 21: THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID NE 1/4, S88013'20"E 709.35 FEET: THENCE DEPARTING SAID NORTH LINE, S00 23'56"W 30.01 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF PROSPECT ROAD, SAID POINT BEING THE POINT OF BEGINNING: THENCE ALONG SAID SOUTH LINE, S88013'20"E 295.80 FEET: THENCE DEPARTING SAID SOUTH LINE. S32009'57"E 560.68 FEET: THENCE. S88034100"W 597.81 FEET: THENCE N00° 23'55E 498.76 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. CONTAINING 5.0 ACRES MORE OR LESS. Section 2. That the Sign District Map adopted pursuant to Section 3.8.7(E) of the Land Use Code of the City of Fort Collins be, and the same hereby is, changed and amended by showing that the above -described property is included in the Residential Neighborhood Sign District. PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES FOR THE VISITORS CENTER AT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER ANNEXATION Principle NOL-1 Preserve and protect natural areas within Fort Collins and the Community Growth Management Area to provide habitat essential to the conservation of plants, animals, and their associated ecosystems and to enrich the Iives of citizens by providing opportunities for education, scientific research, nature, interpretation, art, fishing, wildlife observation, hiking, and other activities. Principle NOL-1.1 Natural Areas System. The City will establish a system of publicly -owned natural areas to protect the integrity of wildlife habitat and conservation sites, protect corridors between natural areas, preserve outstanding examples of Fort Collins' diverse natural heritage, and provide a broad range of opportunities for educational, interpretive, and recreational programs to meet community needs. Principle NOL-1.4 Public Programs. The City will seek to develop effective partnerships between the City, other governmental organizations, and the private sector for the protection and preservation of natural areas. It will also seek the cooperation and assistance of citizens, businesses, community groups, conservation organizations, and governmental agencies in the development and implementation of programs to protect and preserve local natural areas. Principle GM-2 The City will consider the annexation of new territory into the City limits when the annexation of such property conforms to the vision, goals, and policies of City Plan. Principle GM-2.1 Annexation Policies. The City Council will weigh the following factors when considering the annexation of new land into the incorporated limits: Statutory requirements. The property must meet all statutory requirements for annexation according to the laws of the State of Colorado. Property to be annexed located within the Community Growth Management Area. The property must be currently located within the Community Growth Management Area boundary, or the boundary must be amended by actions of the City (and County, if necessary) before the City approves the proposed annexation. Section 4. That, in accordance with the additional conditions contained in the Petition for Annexation, the annexation of said property shall in no sense be interpreted as: a. conveying to the City any right, title, or interest in the property so annexed; b. conveying any right to establish new streets or extend existing streets upon or across said property; or to construct utility lines of any kind upon or across said property; and c. granting any right to apply the provisions of any municipal ordinance, and specifically any building code, zoning code or any tax or licensing ordinance, upon said property, so long as title thereof shall remain in the State Board of Agriculture, PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the jurisdiction of the City shall extend over the property annexed insofar as it relates to the application of: (i) City traffic ordinances; and (ii) City ordinances relating to police enforcement of the traffic code, city ordinances relating to offenses against the person, offenses against public peace, offenses relating to morals, and offenses relating to public health and safety. The jurisdiction of the Municipal Court is extended to include violations of ordinances included in the foregoing subparagraphs c (i) and (ii) occurring on said property; provided, however, that nothing contained in this Ordinance shall be construed to limit the, authority of the University officials to exercise the authority provided in Sections 23-5-106, 23-5-107 and 23-5-108, C.R.S. Section 5. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 4 of the Ordinance, the jurisdiction of the City shall expressly extend to the application of the City of Fort Collins' Sales and Use Tax Ordinance on the property annexed pursuant to this ordinance, provided, however, that all sales to the State of Colorado, its departments or institutions and the subdivisions thereof, in particular the State Board of Agriculture, in their governmental capacities only, and all sales, the taxation of which is prohibited by the Constitution and the laws of the State of Colorado, shall be exempt from the payment of such sales and use tax. Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 17th day of March, A.D. 1998, and to be presented for final passage on the 7th day of April, A.D. 1998. ATTEST: City Clerk 2 Mayor ORDINANCE NO. 44, 1998 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS ANNEXING PROPERTY KNOWN AS THE VISITORS' CENTER AT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER ANNEXATION TO THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO WHEREAS, Resolution 98-9, finding substantial compliance and initiating annexation proceedings, has heretofore been adopted by the Council of the City of Fort Collins; and WHEREAS, the Council does hereby find and determine that it is in the best interests of the City to annex said area to the City. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the following described property, to wit: A TRACT OF LAND LOCATED IN THE NE 1/4 OF SECTION 21, TOWNSHIP 7 NORTH, RANGE 68 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, LARIMER COUNTY, COLORADO, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: CONSIDERING THE NORTH LINE OF THE NE 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 21 AS BEARING S88013'20"E AND WITH ALL BEARINGS CONTAINED HEREIN RELATIVE THERETO: COMMENCING AT THE N 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION 21: THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID NE 1/4, S88013'20"E 709.35 FEET: THENCE DEPARTING SAID NORTH LINE, S00 23'56"W 30.01 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF PROSPECT ROAD, SAID POINT BEING THE POINT OF BEGINNING: THENCE ALONG SAID SOUTH LINE, S880 13'20"E 295.80 FEET: THENCE DEPARTING SAID SOUTH LINE, S32009'57"E 560.68 FEET: THENCE, S88034'00"W 597.81 FEET: THENCE N00° 23'55E 498.76 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. CONTAINING 5.0 ACRES MORE OR LESS. be, and hereby is, annexed to the .City of Fort Collins and made a part of said City, to be known as the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Leaming Center Annexation. Section 2. That, in annexing said property to the City, the City does not assume any obligation respecting the construction of water mains, sewer lines, gas mains, electric service lines, streets or any other services or utilities in connection with the property hereby annexed except as may be provided by the ordinances of the City. Section 3. That the City hereby consents, pursuant to Section 37-45-136(3.6), C.R.S., to the inclusion of said property into the Municipal Subdistrict, Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District. RESOLUTION 98-44 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS SETTING FORTH FINDINGS OF FACT AND DETERMINATIONS REGARDING THE VISITORS' CENTER AT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER ANNEXATION WHEREAS, annexation proceedings were heretofore initiated by the Council of the City of Fort Collins for property to be known as the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation; and WHEREAS, following Notice given as required by law, the Council has held a hearing on said annexation. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the Council hereby finds that the petition for annexation complies with the Municipal Annexation Act. Section 2. That the Council hereby finds that there is at least one -sixth (1/6) contiguity between the City and the property proposed to be annexed; that a community of interest exists between the property proposed to be annexed and the City; that said property is urban or will be urbanized in the near future; and that said property is integrated with or is capable of being integrated with the City. Section 3. That the Council further determines that the applicable parts of said Act have been met, that an election is not required under said Act and that there are no other terms and conditions to be imposed upon said annexation. Section 4. That the Council further finds that notice was duly given and a hearing was held regarding the annexation in accordance with said Act. Section 5. That the Council concludes that the area proposed to be annexed in the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation is eligible for annexation to the City and should be so annexed. Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins held this 17th day of March, A.D. 1998. Mayor ATTEST: City Clerk Intergovernmental Agreement Page 4 University: Vice President for Administrative Services 309 Administration Building Colorado State University Fort Collins, CO 80523 Copy to: Office of the General Counsel 202 Administration Building Colorado State University Fort Collins, CO 80523 Fort Collins City Manager P.O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 Copy to: Fort Collins City Attorney Y.O. Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 90522-0580 IN VIUN&SS VJAEREOF, the parties have executed this Intergovernmental Agreement as of the date set forth opposite their signatures, TM "UNIVERSITX" TEE COLORADO STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE acting by and through Colorado State University By: Date Albert C. Yates, President Colorado State University THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO, a municipal corporation By: Date John F. Fischbach, City Manager Intergovernmental Agreement Page 3 B. The parties agree that the Land Use Plan shall be subject to change only by the mutual written agreement of the University and the City. 2. Duration of IGA. This IGA shall remain in full force and effect for a period of fifty (50) years from the execution hereof by both parties. Any renewal of this IGA shall be accomplished only by the mutual. consent of the parties, their successors or assigns, as evidence by a written agreement signed by both parties. 3. Enforcement The parties agree that monetary damages for non-performance under this IGA would be difficult to establish and, at best, speculative. Accordingly, the parties agree that their respective obligations hereunder shall be enforceable only be seeking equitable relief including but not limited to injunction or specific performance and each party hereby waives the right to seek recovery of any monetary damages in any such action. A Any use or development of the University Property or City Property in existence prior to the execution of this IGA are recognized by the parties as consistent with the Land Use Plan. w: B. The University and the City agree that neither the University's execution of this IGA nor its agreements hereunder with respect to the University property shall be construed as acquiescence by the University to the appliation of City land use or zoning regulations of any kind to the University Property or any real property of the University. It is the intent of the parties that neither the existence of this IGA nor their respective agreements hereunder shall prejudice either one of them or be used as evidence with respect to any use, development, or right to regulate use or development of any other real property of the University or the University Property except as expressly provided herein- C. The representatives of the University and the City signing this IGA hereby represent to each other that they have the authority to enter into this IGA and have obtained any and all approvals necessary to do so. D. Any notice, request, demand, consent or approval, or other communication pursuant to this IGA shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given when personally delivered or deposited in the United States Mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the party for whom it is intended at the following addresses: Intergovernmental Agreement Page 2 with one another to provide functions, services or fatalities lawfully authorized to each of them. Each is lawfully authorized to determine the use of its respective real property and the City is lawfully authorized to regulate uses and development of property within the City limits in accordance with Colorado statutes and its municipal ordinances. G. The. annexation ordinance under which the University Property was annexed specifically exempts the University from the City's zoning and land use regulations. H. The University and City desire to enter into this IGA to implement the Land Use Plan and provide for the development of the real property mfereaced above for their mutual benefit on the terms and conditions set forth herein, notwithstanding the University's bxemption under the above - referenced annexation ordinance from the planning and zoning laws of the City. NOW, TBEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained herein, the benefits accruing to each party and their respective real property and public purposes as result thereo4 and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency ofwhich is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows: 1. Implsmentation of Land Use Plan_ The parties agree to implement the Land Use Plan as follows: A. The University agrees to utilize and develop the University Property in accordancewith the Land Use Plan. B. The City agrees to utilize and develop the City Property in accordance with both the Land Use Plan and the City's Land Use Code. C. The City agrees that, to the extent permitted by law, it will regulate the use and development of the Private Property in accordance with the Land Use Plan and the City's Land Use Code, by ordinance or otherwise, when and if such property is annexed to the City or pursuant to its cooperative role with Larimer County with respect to property within the City Urban Growth Area. D. The agreements to utilize and develop the respective properties in accordance with the Land Use Plan and/or the City's Land Use Code shall run with the land and bind successive owners or assignees of the City Property and the University Property, during the term of this IGA. Each party agrees to give any prospective purchaser or lessee written notice of the terms and conditions of this IGA prior to any transfer or lease of any portion of the property which is the subject hereof. Exhibit: 'A" INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT THIS DnERGOVERNMENTAL ACiREE1V= ("iGA") is entered into between the Colorado State Board of Agriculture, acting by and through Colorado State University (the "University") and the City of Fort Collins, Colorado (the "City'). RECITALS A. The University is a state institution of higher education and, pursuant to Colorado law, is vested with control and power over all real property of the University, B. The City is a political subdivision of the State and vested with the powers of a home - rule city under Colorado law. C. The University owns approximately 200 acres of real property located in Larimer County, Colorado, and more particularly described on Ezdiibit "A" attached hereto, which property shell hereafter be referred to as the "University Property" upon which property is proposed to be built the facility known as the Colorado State University Environmental Learning Center (the "ELC"), The ELC serves as an outdoor laboratory for research and education on natural and cultural systems, to advance environmental stewardship among students and the community through opportunities for experiential learning, self -study, and educational programs. D. The City owns approximately 360 acres of real property (the "City Property") which is located adjacent to or in the immediate vicinity of the ELC and is more particularly described on Exlu'bit `W' attached hereto. The City also has, or may have upon annexation to the City, the power to regulate the use and development of approximately 700 acres of real property (the "Private Property's which is adjacent or in the immediate vicinity of the City Property ; most of which is expected, after gravel mitwtg is complete, to be utilized in a manner consistent with the ELC (e.g., as a part of an environmental corridor). E. In furtherance of their respective missions, the University and City commissioned a study entitled the "Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan" Prepared by EDAW, Inc., and dated April, 1997, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference (the `land Use Plan"), The Land Use Plan was prepared as a collaborative effort to define a conceptual. outline of potential uses of the University Property, the City Property and the Private Property, (an ofwhich properties are more specifically identified in the Land Use Plan and collectively referred to therein, and hereinafter as the "District") which uses would advance the respoativc missions of the University and the City, maintain compatible and complementary uses of property within the District, maintain or enhance the value of the properties and facilitate their respective goals, including the provision of their respective functions, facilities, and services related to open space, conservation, and environmental considerations, F. Pursuant to Section 18(2)(a) and (2)(b) of Article MV of the Colorado Constitution and C.R.S_ 29-1-203, the University and City are authorized to enter into contracts and agreements Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held this 17th day of March, A.D. 1998, Mayor U00:.W City Clerk y' RESOLUTION 98-43 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY CONCERNING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE POUDRE RIVER ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING DISTRICT CONCEPTUAL LAND USE PLAN WHEREAS, Colorado State University (the University) and the City desire that the Environmental Learning Center Annexation, being approximately five acres in size, be annexed into the. City; and WHEREAS, the University has petitioned for the Annexation of the same upon the condition that, among other things, the Building Code, Zoning Code and Land Use Code of the City not apply to said property so long as title thereof shall remain in the State Board of Agriculture; and WHEREAS, in substitution for the enforcement of the aforesaid codes in regulating the development of the Environmental Learning Center, the City and University have determined that it is in their mutual best interest that an intergovernmental agreement be executed for the purpose of ensuring that the University property upon which the Environmental Learning Center is proposed to be constructed shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the "Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan" (hereafter referred to as the "Land Use Plan"); and WHEREAS, accordingly, the Council of the City of Fort Collins has determined thatthe City should enter into said intergovernmental agreement with the University. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the City Manager be, and hereby is, authorized to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with Colorado State University concerning the development of the Environmental Learning Center and Implementation of the Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan. Section 2. That said intergovernmental agreement shall continue in full force and effect for a period of fifty (50) years and shall provide that, (1) the University shall utilize and develop its property in accordance with the Land Use Plan, and (2) the City shall utilize and develop the City property in accordance with.both the Land Use Plan and the City's Land Use Code. Section 3. That said agreement shall be in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by this reference. DATE: March 17, 1998 3L- -M NUMBER: 18 A-D The Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center complies with the definition of Parks, recreation and open lands, which is described in the Land Use Code as follows: Parks, recreation and open lands shall mean natural areas as defined by the Natural Areas Policy Plan, parks and recreation facilities as defined by the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan, environmental interpretation facilities, outdoor environmental research or education facilities, or public outdoor places. (Emphasis added) Parks, recreation and open lands are permitted uses in the POL zone district. The POL zone district designation is consistent with the policies City Plan and is compatible with the existing uses and surrounding zoning. PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD RECOMMENDATION: On March 5, 1998, the Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council approve the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation and Zoning with the POL-Public Open Lands zone district as recommended by staff. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center with a zoning of POL-Public Open Lands Zone District, which is consistent with the adopted City Plan. DATE: March 1.7, 1998 2 rEM NUMBER: 18 A-D BACKGROUND: The surrounding zoning and land uses are as follows: N: County FA -Farming; C; E; LMN; UE (Interstate Lands Rezoning) -primarily vacant S: RC; Environmental Learning Center site E: C; vacant W: County FA -Farming; vacant The Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation is approximately 5 acres in size, located south of Prospect Road (to the west of the Resource Recovery Farm). The site was identified in the Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan (April 1997) as the future location for the Visitors' Center. (A copy of that plan is attached for reference.) The construction of the Visitors' Center is a joint project among the City of Fort Collins, Colorado State University, State of Colorado, and the Fort Collins Convention and Visitors' Bureau. It is anticipated that construction on the Visitors' Center could start in spring, 1998, with completion in the spring of 1999. This is a voluntary annexation, located within the Urban Growth Area of the City of Fort Collins. The City may annex property located within the Urban Growth Area Boundary (UGA), provided that the property has 1/6th contiguity with the existing City boundary. According to the policies and agreements between the City of Fort Collins and Larimer County outlined in the Intergovernmental Agreement for the Urban Growth Area, the City will agree to consider for annexation property in the UGA whenever the property is eligible for annexation according to State law. The proposed Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation does comply with this requirement. Resolution 98-44 authorizes the execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City and Colorado State University relating to the annexation of the five -acre site that was recently donated to Colorado State University. The agreement would specify that the City and Colorado State University's desire to implement the Land Use Plan for the Environmental Learning and Visitors' Center, and the University's agreement to utilize and develop the property in accordance with the Land Use Plan. Under the provisions of the IGA, the University will develop the five -acre site as an element of the University's approximately 200-acres of property located in Larimer County. Aa such, the annexation ordinance under which the University property was annexed specifically exempts the University from the City's zoning and land use regulations._ Proposed Zoning Even though the annexation ordinance exempts the property from the City's Zoning and Land Use Regulations as long as the property is owned by the State Board of Agriculture (CSU), Colorado law requires that all newly annexed lands be placed into a zone district. The proposed zoning for the annexation is the POL, Public Open Lands zone district. The POL zone is for large, publicly -owned parks and open lands which have a community -wide emphasis or other characteristics which warrant inclusion under this separate designation rather than inclusion in an adjoining neighborhood or other district designation. AGENDA ITEM "SUMMARY FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL ITEM JMBER: 18 A-D DATE: March 17, 1998 STAFF: Leanne A. Harter SUBJECT: Items Relating to the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends adoption of the Resolutions and of the Ordinances on First Reading. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: A. Resolution 98-43 Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement with Colorado State University Concerning the Development of the Environmental Learning Center and Implementation of the Poudre River Environmental Learning District Conceptual Land Use Plan. B. Resolution 98-44 Setting Forth Findings of Fact and Determinations Regarding the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Leaming Center Annexation. C. Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 44, 1998, Annexing Property Known as the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation. D. Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No. 45, 1998, Amending the Zoning Map ofthe City of Fort Collins and Classifying for Zoning Purposes the Property Included in the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center Annexation. This is the voluntary annexation and zoning of an area of approximately five (5) acres in size, located south of Prospect Road, north of the existing Environmental Learning Center. The site is owned by Colorado State University and the primary use will be the Visitors' Center at the Environmental Learning Center. The proposed zoning for this annexation is POL-Public Open Lands zone district. APPLICANT: Colorado State University OWNER: Colorado State University