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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY BUILDING - SPA130006 - AGENDA -INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY BUILDING CITY OF FORT COLLINS, SPAR SUBMITTAL NOVEMBER 07, 2013 VIEW FROM HARMONY ROAD OF NORTHEAST FACE OF BUILDING INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY BUILDING CITY OF FORT COLLINS, SPAR SUBMITTAL NOVEMBER 07, 2013 VIEW FROM PROPERTY LINE OF EAST ENTRANCE INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY BUILDING CITY OF FORT COLLINS, SPAR SUBMITTAL NOVEMBER 07, 2013 VIEW FROM PROPERTY LINE IN SOUTHEAST PARKING LOT CG CG CG MOTOR CYCLE MOTOR CYCLE X X E CEL 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 A B C D E 1 AUTOMOTIVE CLASS ROOMS CLEAN ENERGY TECHNOLOGY WELDING STAFF OFFICES MAIN ENTRY ROLLING GATE FOR DELIVERIES AND ACCESS TO YARD AUTO. CONEX STORAGE WELDING RECYCLE PICK-UP (TWICE PER YEAR) WELDING MATERIAL STORAGE WELDING EXHAUST SYSTEM 11 8'-0" MASONRY SCREEN WALL AUTO AND WELDING YARD W. HARMONY RD. S. SHIELDS ST. CLARENDON HILLS DR. STARFLOWER DR. LANGDALE DR. STARFLOWER DR. EXTENTS OF WORK PROJ. NO. DRAWN: CHECKED: DATE: REVISIONS © OZ ARCHITECTURE SCALE: SHEET NUMBER SHEET TITLE: ISSUED FOR: APPROVED: 3003 LARIMER STREET DENVER, CO 80205 LEVEL 1 100' - 0" T.O. PARAPET 2 119' - 0" T.O. LAB 120' - 8" T.O. UPPER 122' - 0" T.O. PARAPET 115' - 8" 1' - 4" 3' - 4" 1' - 8" 15' - 8" 22' - 0" LEVEL 1 100' - 0" T.O. PARAPET 2 119' - 0" T.O. LAB 120' - 8" T.O. UPPER 122' - 0" T.O. PARAPET 115' - 8" 1' - 4" 1' - 8" 15' - 8" 3' - 4" 22' - 0" WELDING EXHAUST EQUIPMENT LEVEL 1 100' - 0" T.O. LAB 120' - 8" T.O. UPPER 122' - 0" T.O. PARAPET 115' - 8" T.O. LOBBY 113' - 8" 5' - 0" 1' - 4" 2' - 0" 13' - 8" 22' - 0" WELDING EXHAUST EQUIPMENT LEVEL 1 100' - 0" T.O. UPPER 122' - 0" T.O. PARAPET 115' - 8" T.O. LOBBY 113' - 8" 13' - 8" 2' - 0" 6' - 4" 22' - 0" MATERIALS LEGEND BRICK VENEER METAL PANEL (AS NOTED) GLASS E1.04 S5 E1.05 E1.06 1" = 30' PROJ. NO. DRAWN: CHECKED: DATE: REVISIONS ‹2=$5&+,7(&785( SCALE: SHEET NUMBER SHEET TITLE: ISSUED FOR: APPROVED: 3003 LARIMER STREET DENVER, CO 80205 PHONE 303.861.5704 www.ozarch.com 4616 SOUTH SHIELDS ST. FORT COLLINS, CO 80526 812011.00 RAB JTC 10/29/13 CITY SPAR SUBMITTAL SITE PLAN SP-1 TECHNOLOGY BLDG. CRH PROJ. NO. DRAWN: CHECKED: DATE: REVISIONS ‹2=$5&+,7(&785( SCALE: SHEET NUMBER SHEET TITLE: ISSUED FOR: APPROVED: 3003 LARIMER STREET DENVER, CO 80205 PHONE 303.861.5704 www.ozarch.com 4616 SOUTH SHIELDS ST. FORT COLLINS, CO 80526 812011.00 RAB JTC 11/25/13 CITY SPAR SUBMITTAL TECHNOLOGY BLDG. CRH C1.0 1" = 30' GRADING, DRAINAGE, & EROSION CONTROL PROJ. NO. DRAWN: CHECKED: DATE: REVISIONS ‹2=$5&+,7(&785( SCALE: SHEET NUMBER SHEET TITLE: ISSUED FOR: APPROVED: 3003 LARIMER STREET DENVER, CO 80205 PHONE 303.861.5704 www.ozarch.com 4616 SOUTH SHIELDS ST. FORT COLLINS, CO 80526 812011.00 RAB JTC 11/25/13 CITY SPAR SUBMITTAL TECHNOLOGY BLDG. CRH C2.0 1" = 30' UTILITY PLAN All changes, addendums, additions, deletions and modifications to these drawings must be approved, in writing, by the Fort Collins-Loveland Water District and the South Fort Collins Sanitation District. Mr. Terry Farrill, P.E., District Engineer Date Mr. Michael D. DiTullio, Manager Date FORT COLLINS - LOVELAND WATER DISTRICT SOUTH FORT COLLINS SANITATION DISTRICT ARCHITECTURE URBAN DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN 10/29/2013 Page 1 of 13 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx DENVER BOULDER COLORADO SPRINGS DENVER PHONE: 303.861.5704 3003 LARIMER STREET FAX: 303.861.9230 DENVER, COLORADO 80205 WWW.OZARCH.COM October 29th 2013 Seth Lorson City Planner City of Fort Collins 281 N. College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80522 RE: SPAR Submittal - Front Range Community College (FRCC) – New Integrated Technology Building Dear Mr Lorson: Within this letter, and the appropriate plans and documents included with this submittal, we are providing the information requested for the SPAR Submittal for the new, 29,000 square feet, Integrated Technology Building on Front Range Community College’s Larimer Campus off of West Harmony Road and South Shields Street. The Integrated Technology program includes instruction in welding, automotive and clean energy trades. The new building will provide lab spaces for instruction and training as well as multiple support classrooms and staff offices. This project initiated the start of the SPAR process on September 16, 2013 with an initial meeting with you and your staff to review the proposed project and the submittal requirements. We submitted our concept package for review on September 23rd. This project was presented to the community on October 2nd. Members of the community expressed concerns about the orientation of the building and specific program elements adjacent to the east property line of the campus. FRCC and the design team have responded to these concerns with substantial and costly design changes to the proposed building. These changes are reflected in the documents provided in this submittal. Responses to the notes from the community meeting are also included. The revised plan for the Integrated Tech Building revised the shape of the building to help screen the yard storage and training spaces from the east property line. Offices and classrooms now line the east side of building, whereas the prior design had the welding program and yard adjacent to the property line. The new design provides for ample setbacks along the east property line incorporating extensive landscaping. The south half of the existing parking lot will remain as is. Design changes will also direct deliveries and most of the activity of the yards to the west side of the site, further from the property line. Below is the statement of planning objectives as well as the responses to the neighborhood concerns. STATEMENT OF PLANNING OBJECTIVES: Statement of appropriate City Plan Principles and Policies achieved by the proposed plan: To meet the changing needs of our students, faculty, and the community, Front Range Community College has developed a Larimer Campus facilities master plan with multiple goals. These goals are to create efficiency with physical resources (more sustainable), be safe, maintain a secure clean and comfortable campus, and create sense of place. The FRCC goals closely align with the City Plan Principals and Policies. In addition, the campus employs local residents and promotes the economic health of the community by educating over 10,000 students each year, the majority of whom are Fort Collins residents and many of whom become key Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 2 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx members of the local workforce. The college has strong relationships with the public schools in the area, including providing technical training to 400 high school students each year, and maintains strong partnerships with businesses within the community. FRCC values the open space they have on the campus, and they see the value that those spaces provide to their community. FRCC has located this new building over the existing east parking lot to maintain the lawns and open spaces currently on the campus. The campus maintains a storm water management strategy and is mindful of the impacts of their development on the regional infrastructure which is in line with the City’s environmental policies. Locating the new Integrated Technology Building over the existing parking surface encourages infill within developed area and growth management of its campus. The college encourages bicycle traffic on the paths along the perimeter and pedestrian traffic through the center of the campus. The campus creates an inviting destination for community members to gather with its pathways, walkways, garden beds, numerous events and library on campus. FRCC promotes a safe campus for its students, visitors, and staff. Access to a walking trail around the campus provides a great wellness amenity to students, staff and community members. Description of proposed open space, wetlands, natural habitats and features, landscaping, circulation, transition areas, and associated buffering on site and in the general vicinity of the project. The existing campus has existing open spaces areas along its perimeter. Just to the north of the proposed new building runs the storm drainage swale. This provides a natural break through the campus and allows enjoyment of the existing lush vegetation along its edges. This feature will remain unchanged with the proposed new building. The existing parking lot has approximately a 10 foot setback from the east property line adjacent to the Coventry Neighborhood. The new design improves the depth of this set back along the east façade of the new building. The setback at its narrowest point is 8 feet and widens to over 75 feet. The area in the added setback buffer will include improved landscaping along the new curb of the parking lot to meet City land use code. Improvements will be made to the existing nature trail along the east edge of the property. Currently the trail follows the east property line coming to the edge of the property along Harmony and runs south until it ties into the existing parking lot and then is picked up again on the south edge of the east parking lot. The path will be extended continuously through the new buffer space along the east edge of the site. Statement of proposed ownership and maintenance of public and private open space areas; applicant's intentions with regard to future ownership of all or portions of the project development plan. FRCC is the primary owner of the public and private open space throughout the existing campus and there are currently no other intentions with regard to ownership. The campus will maintain the new development and existing natural vegetation to remain on the site. Estimate of number of employees for business, commercial, and industrial uses Front Range Community College’s Larimer Campus currently employs 267 full time faculty and staff and also has 548 part time employees. The current enrollment for the fall semester is 6,364 students, the previous summer semester enrollment was 1,779 students and last spring semester they had 6,673 students. Description of rationale behind the assumptions and choices made by the applicant. The current campus is developed with most of the buildings located on the north side of the campus, centered east-west. The campus has little room to construct new facilities and in order to develop the campus to meet current space deficiencies; existing parking lots will be constructed over. This is to help preserve existing open space buffers within the campus. Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 3 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx Narrative description of how conflicts between land uses or disturbances to wetlands, natural habitats and features and or wildlife are being avoided to the maximum extent feasible or are mitigated. The proposed new building will be constructed over existing asphalt parking lot therefor it is believed that there will be no impacts to wildlife. The site is on the east edge of the campus and the building is located to minimize any impact to the existing storm swale, the existing mature vegetation and natural features north of the proposed building. Written narrative addressing each concern/issue raised at the neighborhood meeting(s), if a meeting has been held. See Exhibit B attached. Name of the project as well as any previous name the project may have had during Conceptual Review. FRCC is calling this project the Integrated Technology Building, (ITB). When the original conceptual review was submitted it was titled FRCC Campus Master Plan. After the initial concept review meeting with city staff, we reduced the scope to only include the southwest parking lot and the new Integrated Tech Building. After the neighborhood review meeting on October 2nd 2013, FRCC decided that there were some substantial changes needed to the design of the ITB, that we delayed submitting the project for SPAR review by almost a month to address concerns. The Southwest Parking Lot is currently in the review process with the city planning department. During the later stage of construction of the ITB, the FRCC students will have an opportunity to name the building in alignment with other buildings on campus which are named for Colorado 14ers. Response Letter addressing each of the applicable issues raised in the conceptual review letter. (note some of these comments were specific to the parking lot portion of the project and are addressed with the response, “Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal.” Department: Zoning, Contact: Peter Barnes 1. The new parking lot should comply with the landscape and design standards in Sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2 of the Land Use Code. If parking lot lighting is proposed, the lighting plan should comply with Sec. 3.2.4 of the Land Use Code. Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. Department: Water-Wastewater Engineering, Contact: Roger Buffington 1. Water and wastewater services for this site are provided by the Fort Collins-Loveland Water District and the South Fort Collins Sanitation District. The Districts can be contacted at (970) 226-3104. Noted Department: Transportation Planning, Contact: Seth Lorson 1. TRAFFIC : FRCC master plan No TIS is required as the changes are not expected to increase existing traffic Please provided a memo providing that the changes are not expected to generate additional traffic. Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. Department: Stormwater Engineering, Contact: Glen Schlueter 1. Since the FRCC only requires a Site Plan Advisory Review the process is a little different than normal development within the City. However since FRCC has indicated they want to comply with the drainage requirements and the drainage does enter into the City's drainage system I will give some of the same comments as for any development site in the City. Noted 2. If FRCC pays Stormwater fees, the fees will be adjusted as more impervious area is added to the site. It would be good to document how much impervious are there is now on an exhibit showing the areas and listing them in a table on the exhibit. FRCC as a State entity is not responsible for these fees. Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 4 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx 3. FRCC does have a drainage master plan so it will need to be updated. Normally a drainage report, erosion control report, and construction plans are required and they must be prepared by a Professional Engineer registered in Colorado. The drainage report must address the four-step process for selecting structural BMPs. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all onsite drainage facilities need to be prepared by the drainage engineer and there is a final site inspection required when the project is complete and the maintenance is handed over to an HOA or another maintenance organization. The erosion control report requirements are in the Fort Collins Stormwater Manual, Section 1.3.3, Volume 3, Chapter 7 of the Fort Collins Amendments. If you need clarification concerning this section, please contact the Erosion Control Inspector, Jesse Schlam at 224-6015 or jschlam@fcgov.com. Noted 4. Onsite detention and water quality treatment requirements do apply and have already been discussed with your drainage consultant. Fort Collins does normally require fifty percent of the site runoff to be treated using the standard water quality treatment as described in the Fort Collins Stormwater Manual, Volume 3 – Best Management Practices (BMPs). (http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/business/builders-and- developers/development-forms-guidelines-regulations/stormwater-criteria) Extended detention is the usual method selected for water quality treatment; however the use of any of the BMPs is encouraged. Noted 5. Also Low Impact Development (LID) requirements went into effect March 11, 2013. These require a higher degree of water quality treatment for 50% of the new impervious area and 25% of new paved areas must be pervious. Please contact Basil Hamdan at 224-6035 or bhamdan@fcgov.com for more information. There is also more information on the EPA web site at: http://water.epa.gov/polwaste/green/bbfs.cfm?goback=.gde_4605732_member_219392996 Noted 6. The design of this site must conform to the drainage basin design of the Mail Creek Master Plan Update as well the Fort Collins Stormwater Manual. Noted Department: Fire Authority, Contact: Jim Lynxwiler, FIRE LANES 1. It would appear that adequate fire lanes are not currently provided in all areas of this expansion project. Also, please advise if any of the expansion projects will result in buildings over 30' in height as additional code requirements apply (see below). 06IFC 503.1.1: Fire Lanes shall be provided to within 150' of all portions of the building, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building. When fire lanes cannot be provided, the fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet if the building is equipped throughout with an approved, automatic fire-sprinkler system. The design team will be scheduling a meeting with the PFD to review access and appropriate fire lane locations. The new building will be equipped with a fire-sprinkler system. FIRE LANE SPECIFICATIONS A fire lane plan shall be submitted for approval prior to installation. In addition to the design criteria already contained in relevant standards and policies, any new fire lane must meet the following general requirements: > Shall be designated on the plat as an Emergency Access Easement. > Maintain the required 20 foot minimum unobstructed width* & 14 foot minimum overhead clearance. > Be designed as a flat, hard, all-weather driving surface capable of supporting 40 tons. Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 5 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx > Dead-end fire access roads in excess of 150 feet in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus. > The required turning radii of a fire apparatus access road shall be a minimum of 25 feet inside and 50 feet outside. Turning radii shall be detailed on submitted plans. > Be visible by painting and/or signage, and maintained unobstructed at all times. 2006 International Fire Code 503.2.3, 503.2.4, 503.2.5, 503.3, 503.4 and Appendix D; FCLUC 3.6.2(B)2006 and Local Amendments. *STRUCTURES EXCEEDING 30' (OR THREE OR MORE STORIES) IN HEIGHT In order to accommodate the access requirements for aerial fire apparatus (ladder trucks), required fire lanes shall be 30 foot wide minimum on at least one long side of the building. At least one of the required access routes meeting this condition shall be located within a minimum of 15 feet and a maximum of 30 feet from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. 2006 International Fire Code Appendix D; Poudre Fire Authority Administrative Policy 85-5 2. WATER SUPPLY 06IFC 508.1 and Appendix B: Hydrant spacing and flow must meet minimum requirements based on type of occupancy. Commercial hydrants to provide 1,500 gpm at 20 psi residual pressure, spaced not further than 300 feet to the building, on 600-foot centers thereafter. Noted 3. FIRE CONTAINMENT Buildings exceeding 5000 square feet shall be sprinklered or fire contained. If containment is used, the containment construction shall be reviewed and approved by the Poudre Fire Authority prior to installation. The new building will be equipped with a fire-sprinkler system. 4. PUBLIC-SAFETY RADIO AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM New buildings or building additions that cause the building to be greater than 50,000 square feet will require a fire department, emergency communication system evaluation after the core/shell but prior to final build out. For the purposes of this section, fire walls shall not be used to define separate buildings. Where adequate radio coverage cannot be established within a building, public-safety radio amplification systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with criteria established by the Poudre Fire Authority. Poudre Fire Authority Bureau Admin Policy #07-01 The proposed new building is approximately 29,000 square feet. 5. FDC Fire Department Connections shall be installed in accordance with NFPA standards. Fire department connections shall be located on the street side of buildings, fully visible and recognizable from the street or nearest point of fire department vehicle access. The location of the FDC shall be approved by the fire department. 2006 International Fire Code 912.2 Noted 6. KEY BOXES REQUIRED Poudre Fire Authority requires at least one key box ("Knox Box") to be mounted in approved location(s) on every new building equipped with a required fire sprinkler or fire alarm system. The top shall not be higher than 6 feet above finished floor. 2006 International Fire Code 506.1 and Poudre Fire Authority Bureau Policy 88-20 Noted 7. PREMISE IDENTIFICATION Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 6 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx New and existing buildings shall be plainly identified. Address numbers shall be visible from the street fronting the property, plainly visible, and posted with a minimum of six-inch numerals on a contrasting background. 2006 International Fire Code 505.1 Noted 8. SECURITY GATES The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire chief. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. 2006 International Fire Code 503.6 Noted 9. 2012 IFC CODE ADOPTION Be advised, the Poudre Fire Authority and the City of Fort Collins are currently in the process of reviewing the 2012 International Fire Code in preparation for its adoption in 2014. Building plan reviews shall be subject to the adopted version of the fire code in place at the time of plan review submittal and permit application. Per the letter sent to Seth Lorson from Julia Fitzpatrick with FRCC, on September 16th 2013, this project will be permitted through the State Buildings Programs which have adopted newer codes. We will be design our development to those codes. Department: Environmental Planning, Contact: Lindsay Ex 1. An Ecological Characterization Study is required by Section 3.4.1 (D)(1) as the site is within 500 feet of a known natural habitat (irrigation ditch that serves as a wildlife corridor). Please note the buffer zone standard for this feature is 50', as identified in Section 3.4.1(E) of the Land Use Code, as you proceed with your site design process. We can have a separate discussion for scoping what should be included in this ECS. Please note that the Ecological Characterization Study is due a minimum of 10 days prior to the PDP submittal. Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. We understood this comment to apply to the southwest parking lot only. 2. Within the buffer zone, according to Article 3.4.1(E)(1)(g), the City has the ability to determine if the existing landscaping within the buffer zone is incompatible with the purposes of the buffer zone. Please ensure that your ECS discusses the existing vegetation and identifies potential restoration options. If it is determined to be insufficient, then restoration and mitigation measures will be required. Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. 3. With respect to lighting, the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code, in Article 3.2.4(D)(6) requires that "natural areas and natural features shall be protected from light spillage from off site sources." Thus, lighting from the parking areas or other site amenities shall not spill over to the buffer areas. Noted 4. The applicant should make note of Article 3.2.1(C) that requires developments to submit plans that "...(4) protects significant trees, natural systems, and habitat". Note that a significant tree is defined as a tree having DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) of six inches or more. As several of the trees within this site may have a DBH of greater than six inches, a review of the trees shall be conducted with Tim Buchanan, City Forester (221 6361) to determine the status of the existing trees and any mitigation requirements that could result from the proposed development. Noted Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 7 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx 5. With respect to landscaping and design, the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code, in Article 3.2.1 (E)(2)(3), requires that you use native plants and grasses in your landscaping or re landscaping and reduce bluegrass lawns as much as possible. Noted Department: Engineering Development Review, Contact: Marc Virata, 1. Any damaged curb, gutter and sidewalk existing prior to construction, as well as streets, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, destroyed, damaged or removed due to construction of this project, shall be replaced or restored to City of Fort Collins standards at the Developer's expense. Noted 2. Please contact the City's Traffic Engineer, Joe Olson (224-6062) to schedule a scoping meeting and determine if a traffic study is needed for this project. In addition, please contact Transportation Planning for their requirements as well. Noted – see information in memo form for Traffic Study included with SPAR submittal for the Southwest Parking Lot for FRCC. 3. Any public improvements must be designed and built in accordance with the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards (LCUASS). They are available online at: http://www.larimer.org/engineering/GMARdStds/UrbanSt.htm Noted 4. Civil construction plans are required with any needed public infrastructure installed in City right-of-way. If no infrastructure in City right-of-way is being installed, ideally a civil construction plan set is still submitted for approval to aid in documentation purposes for the general public. Noted 5. If public infrastructure in City right-of-way is to be installed, either a Development Construction Permit (DCP) or City Excavation Permit will need prior to starting any of the associated work. Noted 6. The City constructed road improvements to Harmony Road and Shields Street that abut the property. Typically, the City requires repayment from development/redevelopment of the local street portion of the abutting improvements, tied to a building permit. As the proposal under the SPAR process does not require this, City Engineering would still be interested in obtaining a repay for the infrastructure and would find interest in this being included in any IGA between FRCC and the City. Noted Department: Electric Engineering, Contact: Justin Fields 1. Electric development and system modification charges will apply. Contact Light and Power Engineering, 970- 221-6700, for an estimate of these charges. Noted 2. A C-1 form and 1-line diagram will need to be submitted for each new and upgraded service. The C-1 form is available at http://www.fcgov.com/utilities/img/site_specific/uploads/c-1_form.pdf. Noted 3. New transformer and meter locations will need to be coordinated with Light and Power Engineering. Noted Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 8 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx Current Planning, Contact: Seth Lorson 1. The integrated tech building should be turned 90 degrees so that the garage doors/bays face away from the neighborhood to the east. Building design has been modified to address concerns from the community. 2. Please add additional space and landscaping between the integrated tech building and the parking lot and the neighborhood to the east (along the entire east side of the parking lot). This should have been done when this parking lot was developed. In the area of work, the design will meet city plan use code requirements. 3. With the SPAR submittal, please provide detailed landscape plans that include berms and walls/fences; and a lighting plan that shows fixtures and poles with cut sheets and a photometric plan. Noted 4. The Clarendon Hills HOA has requested that the minimum foot-candle of 1.0 as required in the Land Use Code be a maximum for the proposed parking lot. Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. 5. What is the phasing plan for the parking lot? When will it get paved? Summer 2014? Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. 6. The Clarendon Hills HOA is requesting a 100' buffer from their neighborhood on the southeast corner of the parking lot. Addressed in Southwest Parking Lot SPAR submittal. 7. Provide bike parking as required in 3.2.2(C)(4) of the Land Use Code. Apparently the entire campus needs to be upgraded, please confirm whether that is accurate. Bicycle parking is provided throughout campus. Appropriate quantities of bike parking will be provided in context of the new building square footage and occupant load. Bicycle parking apparatuses will be designed, built and installed by FRCC welding students. 8. Timeline: The neighborhood meeting is scheduled for Oct 2.; if the SPAR is submitted by Oct. 8, then the staff review meeting will occur on Oct 30 and the proposal will be heard by the Planning and Zoning Board on Nov. 21. This timeline is applicable to the Southwest Parking Lot. The timeline for the ITB is still being finalized with the intent to heard by the Planning and Zoning Board by December 12th. Per the recommendation of the city staff FRCC is hoping to have another community meeting to present proposed changes some time in late November or early December. The date is TBD. (g) Legal description of the site. Subdivision #: /020669 - S2 T06 R69 TR IN 2-6-69, COM AT NW COR, N 89 55' E 3378.68 FT, S 0 8' 30" W 1270.68 FT, S 89 17' 10" W 3379.03 FT, N 0 8' 30" E 1307.87 FT TPOB CONT 100 AC M/L; LESS 91017298 (h) The name and address of each owner of property within the boundaries of the development plan area. Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 9 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE STATE OF COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF HIGHER EDUCATION STATE BOARD FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGES AND OCCUPATIONAL EDUC 1391 N SPEER BLVD STE 600 DENVER, CO 80204-2554 (i) A list of names of all general and limited partners (if a partnership), all managers and directors (if a limited liability company) and/or officers and directors (if a corporation) involved as either applicants or owners of the project development plan. N/A (j) A development schedule indicating the approximate date when construction of the project, or stages of the same, can be expected to begin and be completed, including the proposed phasing of construction of public improvements and recreational and common space areas. Please find attached in Exhibit A, the project development schedule. In addition to addressing the planning objectives we have additional notes for the items listed below. Architectural Elevations: These are not included with this submittal as they are not finalized at this time. Elevations and Perspectives will be submitted by Thursday November 7th, 2013. Photometric Plan and Cut Sheets: These are not included with this submittal as they are dependent on the building elevations; a majority of the area adjacent to the building will be lit from building mounted fixtures and we anticipate minimal fixtures in the new parking lots on the east and north. Photometric Plans and Cut Sheets of proposed fixtures will be submitted by Thursday November 7th, 2013 Transportation Impact Study: Per previous discussions with the City a transportation impact study is not required. See attached letter in lieu of study included with SPAR Submittal Package. We look forward to meeting with you and your staff to review our proposed development. Sincerely, OZ Architecture, Inc. Rebecca Greek Project Architect Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 11 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx EXHIBIT A DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE ID Tas Mo Task Name Duration Start Finish Predece 1 SOUTH PARKING LOT 117 days Wed 10/16/13 Thu 3/27/14 2 Parking lot design 27 days Wed 10/16/13 Thu 11/21/13 3 HOA submittal 1 day Wed 10/16/13 Wed 10/16/13 4 HOA review 20 days Thu 10/17/13 Wed 11/13/13 3 5 HOA approval 0 days Wed 11/13/13 Wed 11/13/13 4 6 submit SPAR 1 day Wed 10/16/13 Wed 10/16/13 7 City review process 25 days Thu 10/17/13 Wed 11/20/13 6 8 P&Z approval 1 day Thu 11/21/13 Thu 11/21/13 7 9 Construciton documentation 61 days Thu 10/17/13 Thu 1/9/14 10 prepare 50% parking lot CD's 20 days Thu 10/17/13 Wed 11/13/13 3 11 Issue 50% parking lot CD's 1 day Thu 11/14/13 Thu 11/14/13 10 12 Budget confirmation 10 days Fri 11/15/13 Thu 11/28/13 11 13 FRCC review of CD's 10 days Fri 11/15/13 Thu 11/28/13 11 14 Prepare finalCD's parking lot 30 days Fri 11/29/13 Thu 1/9/14 13 15 Issue Final CD's 0 days Thu 1/9/14 Thu 1/9/14 14 16 Bidding/CA 55 days Fri 1/10/14 Thu 3/27/14 17 Bidding/GMP establishment 10 days Fri 1/10/14 Thu 1/23/14 15 18 Notice to Proceed 5 days Fri 1/24/14 Thu 1/30/14 17 19 Begin construction 0 days Thu 1/30/14 Thu 1/30/14 18 20 Construction duration 40 days Fri 1/31/14 Thu 3/27/14 19 21 INTEGRATED TECH BUILDING 297 days Wed 10/16/13 Thu 12/4/14 22 Schematic Design 26 days Wed 10/16/13 Wed 11/20/13 23 Prepare SD documents 20 days Wed 10/16/13 Tue 11/12/13 24 SD documents due to OZ 0 days Tue 11/12/13 Tue 11/12/13 23 25 Issue SD documents 1 day Wed 11/13/13 Wed 11/13/13 24 26 AP pricing of SD 5 days Thu 11/14/13 Wed 11/20/13 25 27 FRCC technical review of SD 5 days Thu 11/14/13 Wed 11/20/13 25 28 SD signoff 0 days Wed 11/20/13 Wed 11/20/13 27 11/13 1/9 1/30 11/12 11/20 10/1310/2010/2711/311/1011/1711/2412/1 12/812/1512/2212/29 1/5 1/12 1/19 1/26 2/2 2/9 2/16 2/23 3/2 3/9 3/16 3/23 3/30 4/6 4/13 4/20 4/27 5/4 5/11 5/18 5/25 6/1 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29 7/6 7/13 7/20 7/27 8/3 8/10 8/17 8/24 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/510/1210/1910/2611/2 11/911/1611/2311/3012/712/1412/2112/28 1 r November December January February March April May June July August September October November December Jan Task Split Milestone Summary Project Summary Inactive Task Inactive Milestone Inactive Summary Manual Task Duration-only Manual Summary Rollup Manual Summary Start-only Finish-only External Tasks External Milestone Deadline Progress Manual Progress Page 1 Project: 131024 FRCC master sc ID Tas Mo Task Name Duration Start Finish Predece 29 SPAR process 26 days Thu 11/14/13 Thu 12/19/13 30 initial submittal 1 day Thu 11/14/13 Thu 11/14/13 25 31 City review process 25 days Fri 11/15/13 Thu 12/19/13 30 32 P&Z approval 0 days Thu 12/19/13 Thu 12/19/13 31 33 Design Development 46 days Thu 11/21/13 Thu 1/23/14 34 Prepare DD documents (incl FDN and Steel) 35 days Thu 11/21/13 Wed 1/8/14 28 35 DD documents due to OZ 0 days Wed 1/8/14 Wed 1/8/14 34 36 Issue DD documents 1 day Thu 1/9/14 Thu 1/9/14 35 37 AP pricing of DD, bidding and GMP 10 days Fri 1/10/14 Thu 1/23/14 36 38 FRCC technical review of DD 10 days Fri 1/10/14 Thu 1/23/14 36 39 DD signoff 0 days Thu 1/23/14 Thu 1/23/14 38 40 Construction Documents 52 days Fri 1/24/14 Mon 4/7/14 41 Prepare 50% CD's 20 days Fri 1/24/14 Thu 2/20/14 39 42 50% CD's due to OZ 0 days Thu 2/20/14 Thu 2/20/14 41 43 Issue 50% CD's 1 day Fri 2/21/14 Fri 2/21/14 42 44 FRCC technical teview 10 days Mon 2/24/14 Fri 3/7/14 43 45 Prepare final CD's 20 days Mon 3/10/14 Fri 4/4/14 44 46 Final CD's due to OZ 0 days Fri 4/4/14 Fri 4/4/14 45 47 Issue final CD's 1 day Mon 4/7/14 Mon 4/7/14 46 48 Construction administration 235 days Fri 1/10/14 Thu 12/4/14 49 AP bidding/GMP for FDN and steel 15 days Fri 1/10/14 Thu 1/30/14 36 50 Notice to Proceed 10 days Fri 1/31/14 Thu 2/13/14 49 51 Early Procurement 20 days Fri 2/14/14 Thu 3/13/14 50 52 Construction 190 days Fri 3/14/14 Thu 12/4/14 51 53 NEW CAMPUS BUILDING 385 days Mon 11/4/13 Fri 4/24/15 54 Programming/Concept design 54 days Mon 11/4/13 Thu 1/16/14 55 Programming 20 days Mon 11/4/13 Fri 11/29/13 56 Concept design 29 days Mon 12/2/13 Thu 1/9/14 55 12/19 1/8 1/23 2/20 4/4 10/1310/2010/2711/311/1011/1711/2412/1 12/812/1512/2212/29 1/5 1/12 1/19 1/26 2/2 2/9 2/16 2/23 3/2 3/9 3/16 3/23 3/30 4/6 4/13 4/20 4/27 5/4 5/11 5/18 5/25 6/1 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29 7/6 7/13 7/20 7/27 8/3 8/10 8/17 8/24 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/510/1210/1910/2611/2 11/911/1611/2311/3012/712/1412/2112/28 1 r November December January February March April May June July August September October November December Jan Task Split Milestone Summary Project Summary Inactive Task Inactive Milestone Inactive Summary Manual Task Duration-only Manual Summary Rollup Manual Summary Start-only Finish-only External Tasks Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 12 of 13 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx EXHIBIT B NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION MEETING Front Range Community College Integrated Technology Building SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 1 of 6 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\Exhibit B - Neighborhood meeting.docx EXHIBIT B NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION MEETING QUESTIONS, CONCERNS, COMMENTS AND RESPONSES: 1. Comment: (Citizen) I’m interested to hear what residents of Coventry, Westbury and others have to say. I’m glad FRCC is going through the Site Plan Advisory Review process. The site plan has much surface parking, and wonder if FRCC would consider more transit strategies, including MAX, as an alternative to more surface parking. 2. Question: (Citizen) Where is MAX located and where are connections to public transportation? Response: (City) MAX is just under one mile to the east. Existing transit stops were pointed out (on Shields and near intersection of Westbury and Starflower). Some changes may occur in the future. Response: (Applicant) We have tried at all our schools to encourage students to use public transit. It is difficult for students to use public transit because of school, work, and bus schedules. Transfort service is not very frequent. With Phase 1, we will have the same number of parking spaces as now. We do not expect a huge increase in our welding and automotive programs (perhaps 20 more to the existing 700 per quarter). 3. Question: (Citizen) I’m a resident of Clarendon Hills and am concerned about traffic safety at intersections. My 12-year old daughter was hit on her bicycle at Clarendon Hills & Shields by a FRCC student; others have been hit as well. The exit at Harmony Library is unsafe as is. I’m concerned about safety for kids going to Harmony Library and Webber Middle School. Response: (Applicant) We were unaware of accidents involving FRCC students and neighborhood children, and are concerned. We can explore providing additional info to our students. 4. Question: (Citizen) What is the plan if this doesn’t go through? I’m concerned that you are providing setbacks and elevation drawings for the parking lot, but not for the integrated technology building, where the berms are small. I’m concerned about impacts on special needs kids (asthma). Why not place the offices on the east, and point the auto bays toward the interior of campus? Will additional water be channeled onto Harmony? I’m concerned about the abandoned cars near the current building (circulated pictures), and that they will be placed near the neighbors of the new building as well. I’m concerned about a potential 70% increase in traffic. Response: (Applicant) We will be channeling water to a detention pond at the northeast corner of the site. All welding activities will take place inside. There will be building filtration on the northwest edge of the building, and we are addressing the acoustic impacts of this filtration system. Response: (City) This proposal does not increase student enrollment. Traffic impacts would be examined with the next project or the master plan. Front Range Community College Integrated Technology Building SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 2 of 6 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\Exhibit B - Neighborhood meeting.docx ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) Since the meeting, the building has been redesigned to place offices and classrooms along the east façade. The redesign of the building to be an ‘L’ shape will also help screen the yard from the neighbors. By providing a new building, specifically designed for the technology program’s needs, the Integrated Technology Building allows for more storage inside the building as well as improved fencing of the yard to help screen stored cars used as teaching aids as well as storage containers and materials. 5. Comment: (Citizen) I live in Clarendon Hills and would like to thank FRCC for their work with the neighborhood to buffer the parking, to not provide access to the parking lot from Clarendon Hills Drive, and to continue to work to mitigate the impacts on neighbors. 6. Question: (Citizen) What happens to the gray area at the bottom of the map (southern part of the property currently owned by church)? Response: (Clarendon Hills resident) The warranty deed survives the purchase of the property, so any plans for development would be required to be submitted to the Clarendon Hills architectural review committee. Response: (Applicant) We do not have a plan for the area south of the canal. Initially we looked at placing the integrated technology building on the parcel, but we stopped consideration of this because of our meetings with Clarendon Hills. The eight-acre parcel is owned by a church; the entire parcel requires Clarendon Hills HOA architectural review. 7. Question: (Citizen) I believe you will need to re-engineer the intersection on Shields with the additional parking near that intersection. What are the hours of operation? The integrated technology building appears to be a “square peg” that is not friendly to the community on the east. Response: (Applicant) The building was initially designed for the eastern location, and was planned for the eastern side until the church land came up for sale. At that point, we considered placing it on the church parcel, but when this concept was rejected by Clarendon Hills, we shifted it back to the east. 8. Question: (Citizen) I understand the need to expand, but how much might FRCC grow beyond estimates? The plans seem inward looking vs. outward looking (considering neighbors). Why is FRCC locating automotive and welding programs next to a residential area rather than an area zoned for light industrial uses? Is there another area in Fort Collins that would be more appropriate? ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) Beyond the currently funded master plan improvements and a request for funding for a new allied health building, FRCC doesn’t anticipate further growth on this campus without adequate funding for parking structures or to replace existing single story buildings with multistory structures. The teaching programs for auto and welding are original to this campus from 1970 when it was a vocational tech school. These programs have existed on this campus long before the homes were built around the campus. It is not a reasonable or viable solution for FRCC to relocate their campus at this time. Front Range Community College Integrated Technology Building SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 3 of 6 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\Exhibit B - Neighborhood meeting.docx 9. Comment: (Citizen) I’m a former student and instructor at FRCC. The integrated technology building in that location is unacceptable; it doesn’t belong in a residential area. I believe it should be located in an area zoned for this use. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) See above response. 10.Comment: (Citizen) The pictures of the existing building show FRCC is not being a good neighbor. The motorcycle classes have also been moved closer to the neighborhood. This proposal increases the impact. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) Noted 11.Question: (Citizen) I support FRCC’s mission in educating people in our community. Might there be a location in the Mason Corridor where quasi-industrial uses like this? Could underground parking be considered? For shielding, I’d like to see berms, not just plants. How large are the trees and shrubs? Size might make a big difference. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) See above` response. Underground or structured parking is not a financially viable option for the campus at this time. With the changes to the design of the building and added improved berms to help screen the building and campus from the adjacent properties, FRCC believes that we have made substantive changes that will demonstrate our continued commitment to the community. 12.Comment: (Citizen) What type of EPA rating do you have for the automotive shop? Response: (Applicant) Exact EPA rating is not known, but we have about 30 gallons of used oil that is pumped out monthly. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) FRCC is a conditionally exempt small quantity generator per US EPA RCRA 13.Comment: (Citizen) Is there a filter bag for the welding shop? Response: (Applicant) There are individual hoods at each welding station; the air is cleaned and blown back in to the building. 14.Question: (Citizen) Will there be an increase in students with the new building? Response: (Applicant) This expansion not intended to increase enrollment, but to service the present enrollment properly. Currently, we have seven car bays. The new building would have six tandem bays (six doors but twelve stations), and about 30% more space overall for the automotive program. Waste should not increase. Front Range Community College Integrated Technology Building SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 4 of 6 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\Exhibit B - Neighborhood meeting.docx 15.Question: (Citizen) How often do state inspectors come in to inspect the stormwater drainage, and is there a public review of the stormwater plan? Response: (Staff) We will provide information in the neighborhood meeting notes. Response: (Staff, post-meeting) The City, at some point, will be audited by the State and they will look at one or more of our stormwater facilities. The State is behind on auditing MS4 programs but that is just a part of the audit process. They will look at whether it was designed and built according to our standards, that it has not been altered unless planned and approved, and that it is functioning as designed. They will also look at our inspection and enforcement program to see that we are ensuring these things, as well. The City Council requires updates every year and has been reviewing our plans in more detail the last couple of years under what they call “Stormwater repurposing”. There has been numerous special sessions and hearings with City Council. Plus Stormwater puts out brochures and has open houses for every project and every master plan update for public comment. Also last year we switched from our own manual to using the Urban Drainage manual which is constantly updated. We had public input on the criteria manual from citizens and local engineering firms besides all the boards and commissions reviewed and commented on them. Staff contacts for further questions: Glen Schlueter, Stormwater Engineer, 970-224-6065, gschlueter@fcgov.com Susan Strong, Environmental Regulatory Specialist, 970-416-2325, strong@fcgov.com 16.Response to several questions about relocating the integrated technology programs to an off-campus location: (Applicant) We have looked at off-site alternatives, but they are much more expensive and more difficult to manage. The integrated technology programs are a training environment, not a production/industrial environment. 17.Comment: (Citizen) I’m concerned about Phase 2 and Phase 3. I’m concerned about a Wal- Mart-type parking lot and buildings with many students. I think FRCC may need to go elsewhere for future expansions, as it is landlocked where it is. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) see previous response. 18.Question: (Citizen) I would like to see more development off of the main FRCC campus as the campus becomes full. I would like to express my concern about the irrigation ditch, as is a wildlife corridor and a drainage basin. I’m particularly concerned about Phase 2, if the parking lot is expanded to the south. Response: (Staff) There are regulations for ditches that serve as wildlife corridors. An environmental characterization study (ECS) will be required because the ditch has been identified as a wildlife corridor. Front Range Community College Integrated Technology Building SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 5 of 6 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\Exhibit B - Neighborhood meeting.docx 19.Comment: (Citizen) I would like to note that there is a dedicated irrigation ditch (some of it underground) that runs behind Coventry. This canal is used to water city parks as well as other uses. Response: (Staff) The City process will require a buffer from the irrigation ditch, and provides regulations about plantings and maintenance. 20.Question: (Citizen) I am a new resident, live very close to the proposed building, and am not happy about the plans. You mention that you plan to build a new building just because renovating the old one is too disruptive. What happens to the old building? Response: (Applicant) The vacated building will be used to expand the art program, which is currently underserved. Renovating the existing auto/welding building cannot be done in the same footprint, and the area is constrained around it. Also, students in the program would miss a year while renovation occurred. 21.Comment: (Citizen) I live in Coventry, and am a former student. When I walked past the integrated technology building as a student, the facility smelled (like eggs). I’m concerned about possible odors for Coventry neighbors if the facility is moved to the east. If it is not ok for Clarendon, why it is ok for Coventry? I would suggest placing the nursing program next to the housing, and put the automotive use on the northwest corner of campus. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) Within the past five years, FRCC made significant investment into retrofitting the exhaust system for the welding program. The new system is compliant with all air quality requirements. 22.Comment: (Citizen) I teach wildlife biology at CSU. FRCC offers good programs, and some have run out of space. CSU has brought its less impactful programs to the edge of campus. Why can’t FRCC do the same to reduce its impact on its neighbors? ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) The building design has been modified to move the less impactful program elements of the new Integrated Technology Building adjacent to the property line. 23.Comment: (Citizen) I’m concerned about the location of the auto/welding building, and the noise that will go toward Coventry. Could the offices and classrooms be placed to the east? Also, please keep in mind kids biking to the library and to Webber – you will be shifting traffic from the north entrance to the west entrance of campus. ADDITIONAL Response: (Applicant) The building will comply with City noise ordinances and codes. The currently planned changes do not affect the level or routing of traffic on campus. 24.Comment: (Citizen) I work for FRCC; it provides an excellent education, but is now maxed out. The new building would provide indoor storage. 25.Comment: (Citizen) I live in Coventry. FRCC has seen remarkable growth, and just about maxed out. I thought FRCC would buy the northwest corner of Harmony and Shields, where there Front Range Community College Integrated Technology Building SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 6 of 6 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\Exhibit B - Neighborhood meeting.docx is lots of acreage. My son attended Wyoming Tech, which has uses such as this in an industrial area. 26.Comment: (Citizen) I am an electrical engineer, and would like to note that welding causes electromagnetic interference with electronics. The interference should be examined. Also, could the building be placed on the pie-shaped parking area on the west side of campus, away from Coventry and Clarendon Hills? 27.Comment: (Applicant) I am a welding instructor, and we are concerned about separating the program from campus. The ability to access the library, clubs, etc. would be harmed with an off- campus location. Front Range Community College Southwest Parking Lot SPAR Submittal – City of Fort Collins 10/29/2013 Page 13 of 2 P:\2012\812011.00 FRCC\Project Management\City of Fort Collins Development Review\131029 ITB SPAR SUBMITTAL\Written Documents\ITB A Statement of Planing Objectives.docx EXHIBIT C TRAFFIC MEMO October 7, 2013 Mr. Joe Olson City Traffic Engineer 281 N. College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80522 Dear Mr. Olson Please accept this letter in leu of a traffic study related to the SPAR submittal for the parking lot project proposed on an 8.2 acre parcel of ground adjacent to the Front Range Community College Larimer Campus. The college will be undertaking a series of capital projects that were identified in a Larimer Campus Facilities Master Plan Update competed in October of 2012 by a renowned campus planning firm, JBA 1ncorporated. While the scope of the projects include the construction of two new facilities and the remodel of three existing facilities, the projects are intended to meet current identified space deficiencies for critical programs that already exist on campus. No new programs will result from these projects. The 2012 Master Plan Update identified a current deficit of 59,000 assignable square feet. The new construction projects, sized in accordance with our current construction budget, will create approximately 40,000 new assignable square feet. The projects will provide proper classrooms, suitable labs, appropriate sized offices for faculty and collaborative learning areas for students. The first construction project will be the Integrated Technology building and this project is anticipated to displace approximately 250 existing parking spaces. These spaces will be replaced as part of the proposed phase I parking improvements which will be constructed on the west end of the 8.2 acre parcel. When funding enables the campus to construct the balance of space deemed necessary to address remaining space deficiencies, (anticipated to be 4 to 6 years), the campus will complete phase II of the proposed parking lot improvements. Front Range looks forward to working with the City as we advance our projects that will provide appropriate facilities for our existing programs. If you have any questions please feel free to call me at 303-404-5492. Regards, Derek Brown AVP, Facilities Planning and Management 1 NEIGHBORHOOD INFORMATION MEETING PROJECT: Front Range Community College (FRCC) Expansion DATE: October 2, 2013 LOCATION: Front Range Community College APPLICANT: Front Range Community College CITY PLANNER: Seth Lorson Seth Lorson opened the meeting by introducing himself and Laurie Kadrich, Director of Community Development and Neighborhood Services; Sarah Burnett, Neighborhood Development Review Liaison; and Lindsay Ex, Senior Environmental Planner and by providing an explanation of the Site Plan Advisory Review process as well as an overview of the neighborhood meeting agenda. The project will be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board Andy Dorsey, President of FRCC, presented information about FRCC’s growth over the years and its proposed master plan. The master plan includes three major changes: (1) replacement of the existing integrated technology building from the 1970’s with a one- story, 28,000 square foot integrated technology building on the east side of Starflower Dr., (2) addition of a 465 space parking lot on the south side of Westbury Dr. near Shields St., and (3) addition of a three-story, 30,000 square foot allied health building at the northwest corner of the site. The allied health building is planned for a few years from now; the integrated technology building and the parking lot would be implemented in the near future. Additional information about the integrated technology building: • Major functions of the building are proposed as follows: welding program (east side), auto program (south side), classrooms (west side), and offices (north side). • Materials would match the existing campus and have similar horizontal banding • Outdoor work and storage will be reduced by 99%; no welding will occur outdoors. • An eight-foot fence with opaque metal panels will be placed along the south side • Welding exhaust is on the north side; FRCC is working with an acoustic consultant • City staff has recommended examining rotating the building to reduce its impact on the neighboring homes in the Coventry neighborhood; FRCC is actively considering this option. 2 Additional information about the parking lot: • FRCC has not yet purchased the parcel from the existing owner, a local church • Parking will be developed in two phases; only the first phase is funded. Development is planned on the northern part of the parcel at this time. • Lot will be gated, unlit in the summer, and open 30 weeks per year • No access will be provided from the parcel onto Clarendon Hills Dr. • FRCC has met with the Clarendon Hills HOA; there are deed restrictions on the parcel that require Clarendon Hills HOA review of development on the parcel. Seth Lorson then opened the meeting for questions. QUESTIONS, CONCERNS, COMMENTS AND RESPONSES: 1. Comment: (Citizen) I’m interested to hear what residents of Coventry, Westbury and others have to say. I’m glad FRCC is going through the Site Plan Advisory Review process. The site plan has much surface parking, and wonder if FRCC would consider more transit strategies, including MAX, as an alternative to more surface parking. 2. Question: (Citizen) Where is MAX located and where are connections to public transportation? Response: (City) MAX is just under one mile to the east. Existing transit stops were pointed out (on Shields and near intersection of Westbury and Starflower). Some changes may occur in the future. Response: (Applicant) We have tried at all our schools to encourage students to use public transit. It is difficult for students to use public transit because of school, work, and bus schedules. Transfort service is not very frequent. With Phase 1, we will have the same number of parking spaces as now. We do not expect a huge increase in our welding and automotive programs (perhaps 20 more to the existing 700 per quarter). 3. Question: (Citizen) I’m a resident of Clarendon Hills and am concerned about traffic safety at intersections. My 12-year old daughter was hit on her bicycle at Clarendon Hills & Shields by a FRCC student; others have been hit as well. The exit at Harmony Library is unsafe as is. I’m concerned about safety for kids going to Harmony Library and Webber Middle School. Response: (Applicant) We were unaware of accidents involving FRCC students and neighborhood children, and are concerned. We can explore providing additional info to our students. 3 Response: (City) The City keeps statistics on accidents, and can look at the design of the intersection as well as facilitating education and information to FRCC students. 4. Question: (Citizen) What is the plan if this doesn’t go through? I’m concerned that you are providing setbacks and elevation drawings for the parking lot, but not for the integrated technology building, where the berms are small. I’m concerned about impacts on special needs kids (asthma). Why not place the offices on the east, and point the auto bays toward the interior of campus? Will additional water be channeled onto Harmony? I’m concerned about the abandoned cars near the current building (circulated pictures), and that they will be placed near the neighbors of the new building as well. I’m concerned about a potential 70% increase in traffic. Response: (Applicant) We will be channeling water to a detention pond at the northeast corner of the site. All welding activities will take place inside. There will be building filtration on the northwest edge of the building, and we are addressing the acoustic impacts of this filtration system. Response: (City) This proposal does not increase student enrollment. Traffic impacts would be examined with the next project or the master plan. 5. Comment: (Citizen) I live in Clarendon Hills and would like to thank FRCC for their work with the neighborhood to buffer the parking, to not provide access to the parking lot from Clarendon Hills Drive, and to continue to work to mitigate the impacts on neighbors. 6. Question: (Citizen) What happens to the gray area at the bottom of the map (southern part of the property currently owned by church)? Response: (Clarendon Hills resident) The warranty deed survives the purchase of the property, so any plans for development would be required to be submitted to the Clarendon Hills architectural review committee. Response: (Applicant) We do not have a plan for the area south of the canal. Initially we looked at placing the integrated technology building on the parcel, but we stopped consideration of this because of our meetings with Clarendon Hills. The eight-acre parcel is owned by a church; the entire parcel requires Clarendon Hills HOA architectural review. 7. Question: (Citizen) I believe you will need to re-engineer the intersection on Shields with the additional parking near that intersection. What are the hours of operation? The integrated technology building appears to be a “square peg” that is not friendly to the community on the east. 4 Response: (Applicant) The building was initially designed for the eastern location, and was planned for the eastern side until the church land came up for sale. At that point, we considered placing it on the church parcel, but when this concept was rejected by Clarendon Hills, we shifted it back to the east. 8. Question: (Citizen) I understand the need to expand, but how much might FRCC grow beyond estimates? The plans seem inward looking vs. outward looking (considering neighbors). Why is FRCC locating automotive and welding programs next to a residential area rather than an area zoned for light industrial uses? Is there another area in Fort Collins that would be more appropriate? 9. Comment: (Citizen) I’m a former student and instructor at FRCC. The integrated technology building in that location is unacceptable; it doesn’t belong in a residential area. I believe it should be located in an area zoned for this use. 10. Comment: (Citizen) The pictures of the existing building show FRCC is not being a good neighbor. The motorcycle classes have also been moved closer to the neighborhood. This proposal increases the impact. 11. Question: (Citizen) I support FRCC’s mission in educating people in our community. Might there be a location in the Mason Corridor where quasi- industrial uses like this? Could underground parking be considered? For shielding, I’d like to see berms, not just plants. How large are the trees and shrubs? Size might make a big difference. 12. Comment: (Citizen) What type of EPA rating do you have for the automotive shop? Response: (Applicant) Exact EPA rating is not known, but we have about 30 gallons of used oil that is pumped out monthly. 13. Comment: (Citizen) Is there a filter bag for the welding shop? Response: (Applicant) There are individual hoods at each welding station; the air is cleaned and blown back in to the building. 14. Question: (Citizen) Will there be an increase in students with the new building? Response: (Applicant) This expansion not intended to increase enrollment, but to service the present enrollment properly. Currently, we have seven car bays. The new building would have six tandem bays (six doors but twelve stations), and about 30% more space overall for the automotive program. Waste should not increase. 5 15. Question: (Citizen) How often do state inspectors come in to inspect the stormwater drainage, and is there a public review of the stormwater plan? Response: (Staff) We will provide information in the neighborhood meeting notes. Response: (Staff, post-meeting) The City, at some point, will be audited by the State and they will look at one or more of our stormwater facilities. The State is behind on auditing MS4 programs but that is just a part of the audit process. They will look at whether it was designed and built according to our standards, that it has not been altered unless planned and approved, and that it is functioning as designed. They will also look at our inspection and enforcement program to see that we are ensuring these things, as well. The City Council requires updates every year and has been reviewing our plans in more detail the last couple of years under what they call “Stormwater repurposing”. There has been numerous special sessions and hearings with City Council. Plus Stormwater puts out brochures and has open houses for every project and every master plan update for public comment. Also last year we switched from our own manual to using the Urban Drainage manual which is constantly updated. We had public input on the criteria manual from citizens and local engineering firms besides all the boards and commissions reviewed and commented on them. Staff contacts for further questions: Glen Schlueter, Stormwater Engineer, 970-224-6065, gschlueter@fcgov.com Susan Strong, Environmental Regulatory Specialist, 970-416- 2325, strong@fcgov.com 16. Response to several questions about relocating the integrated technology programs to an off-campus location: (Applicant) We have looked at off-site alternatives, but they are much more expensive and more difficult to manage. The integrated technology programs are a training environment, not a production/industrial environment. 17. Comment: (Citizen) I’m concerned about Phase 2 and Phase 3. I’m concerned about a Wal-Mart-type parking lot and buildings with many students. I think FRCC may need to go elsewhere for future expansions, as it is landlocked where it is. 6 18. Question: (Citizen) I would like to see more development off of the main FRCC campus as the campus becomes full. I would like to express my concern about the irrigation ditch, as is a wildlife corridor and a drainage basin. I’m particularly concerned about Phase 2, if the parking lot is expanded to the south. Response: (Staff) There are regulations for ditches that serve as wildlife corridors. An environmental characterization study (ECS) will be required because the ditch has been identified as a wildlife corridor. 19. Comment: (Citizen) I would like to note that there is a dedicated irrigation ditch (some of it underground) that runs behind Coventry. This canal is used to water city parks as well as other uses. Response: (Staff) The City process will require a buffer from the irrigation ditch, and provides regulations about plantings and maintenance. 20. Question: (Citizen) I am a new resident, live very close to the proposed building, and am not happy about the plans. You mention that you plan to build a new building just because renovating the old one is too disruptive. What happens to the old building? Response: (Applicant) The vacated building will be used to expand the art program, which is currently underserved. Renovating the existing auto/welding building cannot be done in the same footprint, and the area is constrained around it. Also, students in the program would miss a year while renovation occurred. 21. Comment: (Citizen) I live in Coventry, and am a former student. When I walked past the integrated technology building as a student, the facility smelled (like eggs). I’m concerned about possible odors for Coventry neighbors if the facility is moved to the east. If it is not ok for Clarendon, why it is ok for Coventry? I would suggest placing the nursing program next to the housing, and put the automotive use on the northwest corner of campus. 22. Comment: (Citizen) I teach wildlife biology at CSU. FRCC offers good programs, and some have run out of space. CSU has brought its less impactful programs to the edge of campus. Why can’t FRCC do the same to reduce its impact on its neighbors? 23. Comment: (Citizen) I’m concerned about the location of the auto/welding building, and the noise that will go toward Coventry. Could the offices and classrooms be placed to the east? Also, please keep in mind kids biking to the library and to Webber – you will be shifting traffic from the north entrance to the west entrance of campus. 7 24. Comment: (Citizen) I work for FRCC; it provides an excellent education, but is now maxed out. The new building would provide indoor storage. 25. Comment: (Citizen) I live in Coventry. FRCC has seen remarkable growth, and just about maxed out. I thought FRCC would buy the northwest corner of Harmony and Shields, where there is lots of acreage. My son attended Wyoming Tech, which has uses such as this in an industrial area. 26. Comment: (Citizen) I am an electrical engineer, and would like to note that welding causes electromagnetic interference with electronics. The interference should be examined. Also, could the building be placed on the pie-shaped parking area on the west side of campus, away from Coventry and Clarendon Hills? 27. Comment: (Applicant) I am a welding instructor, and we are concerned about separating the program from campus. The ability to access the library, clubs, etc. would be harmed with an off-campus location. Mark and Ingrid Layman 908 Langdale Drive Fort Collins, CO 80526 July 30, 2013 RE: FRCC purchase and development of Peak Community Church property Dear Council Members, We are the designated liaisons for the Clarendon Hills neighborhood concerning an impending purchase and development by Front Range Community College (FRCC), 4616 S Shields St., Fort Collins, CO 80526. For the past 17 years, we have lived in the neighborhood at 908 Langdale Drive. Our home adjoins an 8-acre parcel of vacant land located at Shields Street and Clarendon Hills Drive, south of the FRCC campus. When we bought our home we did so knowing that the vacant land was owned by the Peak Community Church, formerly the First Church of God, and zoned residential. Currently, the Peak Community Church is in the process of selling this property to FRCC which plans to develop the land with additional school buildings and parking lots. This property will expand FRCC’s campus by 20%. We are gravely concerned about this new development activity, the impact to our neighborhood, and the manner in which it is being conducted. We have had two meetings between ourselves, 2 to 3 members of our HOA, and FRCC. We have been told generalities of the FRCC plan for the property, but very little acknowledgement of the needs of our neighborhood. FRCC has communicated to Clarendon Hills that it is not required to go through the City’s zoning or planning processes, since it is affiliated with the State. However, we have heard that they plan on requesting a zoning change. FRCC has also told us that they will break ground as soon as they close on the property in August so that they can finish the first building in time for the 2014 Fall Semester. We are very concerned by the speed at which this development is being processed and would like the City’s involvement via a site plan advisory review. Of special note, is that this property is bound by a Warranty Deed set forth in 1991. The Deed stipulates that “No building or other structure shall be erected, placed or altered on the herein – described property until plans and specifications of the building and landscaping have been approved by the Architectural Control Committee of the Clarendon Hills Subdivision.” See Deed attached. Our HOA committee has not received nor approved FRCC’s improvement plans. An illustration of our concern is that, according to an FRCC pencil drawing, FRCC’s “Phase 1” of construction includes an initial 28,806 Sq. Ft., single level Integrated Technology Building. This industrial building will house the Automotive Tech, Welding, and Clean Energy programs. The building will have 6+ automotive bays, welding machines, and solar panel assembly facilities--all facing away from the main campus toward the Clarendon Hills neighborhood. FRCC says that the building will have 14’ ceilings to accommodate lifts and 8-10’ tall solid white metal fencing which will provide security for Auto/Welding assets including automobiles, which will be stored outside. In contrast, the north side of the building, which faces the rest of the college and away from our neighborhood, will contain staff offices, student space, and two classrooms. The remainder of the property will be assigned to parking lots and possibly an additional building in the future. The impact to our neighborhood is that it moves Clarendon Hills into an industrial setting -- significantly increasing sound pollution, introduces hazardous emissions, and brings an industrial setting to a quality residential neighborhood. Clarendon Hills Neighborhood current concerns regarding FRCC expansion: 1. Zoning: Currently Residential. Proposed use: industrial. - 6+ automotive bays, a racking system, pneumatic lifts and tools as well as a fleet of cars parked outside surrounded by an 8-10 ft. white metal fence. - Welding and fabrication - Solar panel assembly facility - Decibel levels of automotive, welding, solar tools and fabrication - Hours of operation 2. Parking Expansion: Includes additional parking covering multiple acres, situated within feet of homes and perimeters of the adjoining Clarendon Hills neighborhood. - Impact of the increase of students and vehicles parking in our neighborhood. - Ingress/egress of vehicles via Clarendon Hills Dr. or Langdale Dr. - Vehicle headlights and parking lot lighting 3. Destruction of property values in Clarendon Hills. 4. Environmental: - Noise pollution - pneumatic and industrial tools, HVAC, parking, trash services, engines running with and without mufflers, and outdoor activities/classes. - Heat pollution - parking lots, buildings. - Light pollution – lighted parking lots & buildings, vehicle headlights. - Storm water drainage and soil erosion. - Storage and use of hazardous materials. - Affect on City water and sanitary systems. - Ecological impact on the plants and animals in the 8-acre vacant lot. 5. Fast-track of this project needs to go through a Fort Collins City review/approval process as well as input from the surrounding neighborhoods. 6. Contractual requirements of the Warranty Deed. 7. Future FRCC growth: - We need a plan that legally protects our neighborhood from future FRCC growth and ensures their compliance with the Warranty Deed. - FRCC has suggested a second building on this site. What process will that project go through? We ask the Council to please intercede on our behalf by requiring FRCC to comply with the Warranty Deed, have appropriate time for review (Community, Zoning, etc.), and to support the Clarendon Hills neighborhood to maintain our property values and quality of life in this beautiful community. Clarendon Hills considers this matter to be urgent. We have received significant feedback from our neighbors regarding the industrialized change and the impacts to the quality of the overall area. We look forward to your earliest reply. We are available at the phone numbers and email addresses below. Sincerely, Mark and Ingrid Layman Clarendon Hills - FRCC Expansion Communications Liaisons Mark (970) 231-8543 Email: mark.layman@hp.com Ingrid (970) 231-8615 Email: Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com 908 Langdale Drive Fort Collins, CO 80526 Brookwood on Mail Creek Homeowners Association 5020 Crest Road Ft Collins, Co 80526 3 Oct 2013 To FRCC Board and planned unit developer City Planning Department Seth Lorson Clarendon Hills Homeowners Assoc RE: Front Range Community College Larimer Campus, Corner of Shields and Harmony Dear Sirs, The irrigation lateral ditch flowing through the proposed FRCC building lot (former Church property) serves the city parks service and the subdivision Brookwood on Mail Creek. It is vital to almost 70 acres of irrigated land on Crest Road and the City Parks behind McGraw School. It has been in existence since Ward Smith farmed this section of Larimer County. We have used it since 1976 and have tried to be good neighbors to both the school and the neighboring developments. When this utility easement was buried under Coventry subdivision, city standards required 24 inch concrete culvert, proper 100 foot manhole spacing and proper easements from buildings and structures, in case it needs to be re-dug and/or repaired. The ditch runs almost continuously during the summer months, from Pleasant Valley head gate 136. It should be easy to bury and not interfere in any way with the proposed development of buildings and parking. Brookwood and the City Parks service currently clean and maintain the ditch and its flow. This annually takes a lot of hand shovel work and occasionally a backhoe and/or chainsaws to remove large items. Putting the ditch in a large culvert would save a lot of this type work and facilitate cleaning what the neighborhood kids play with in this ditch. The rest of the ditch as it travels east along the south edge of Front Range CC could also be considered for the same concrete culvert which would save even more maintenance and cleaning on FRCC campus property. We are available to aid in any way to facilitate and advise this development and ditch maintenance. Sincerely Bob Underhill Pres Brookwood HOA 970-226-2573 5020 Crest Road Ft Collins, Co 80526 bcunderhill@gmail.com 1 TO: City of Fort Collins FROM: Clarendon Hills Home Owners Association, Wildlife Team RE: FRCC Ecological Characterization Study for the proposed developments on the land parcel adjacent to Clarendon Hills DATE: October 29, 2013 ATTACHEMENTS: (Appendix A: species list, Appendix B: petition) To whom it may concern, The Clarendon Hills Home Owners Association (CHHOA), through the Wildlife Team, submits these comments regarding Front Range Community College’s (FRCC) proposed development of the approximately 8 acre parcel adjacent to Clarendon Hills, with specific emphasis on the ecological value of the land as a wildlife corridor. We also provide specific comments and requests for clarification on the Ecological Characterization Study conducted by Wildland Consultants, Inc. on behalf of FRCC. 1. The development property is a wildlife corridor with significant habitat features that support nesting raptors: The CHHOA has compiled a list of observed species in the proposed development property, with observations occurring primarily along the irrigation ditch that cuts through the property and extends along the FRCC’s nature trail along the college’s southern border (Attachment A). CHHOA is fortunate to have professional wildlife biologist, ecologists, wildlife veterinarians, environmental engineers/consultants, and master birders in its community. The 83 taxa in the attached list have been verified by at least two observers over the last 10 years. Nine species of raptors have been documented, including an annual nesting of a pair of great horned owls. A nesting pair of Swainson’s hawks existed in the half-dead cottonwood on the south side of the property until the nest branch was pruned out by the current property owners (without mitigation or consultation with the City regarding protection for this sensitive species). A significant number of migratory bird species frequent the trees along the ditch during the summer. The diversity of mammals that use this property as a wildlife corridor is also 2 remarkable given surrounding development, and has included mega-fauna such as black bear, mountain lions, bobcats and coyotes. Special attention should be directed to the significant quality of tree and woody debris habitats along the ditch and FRCC nature trail, and the heavy use of these habitats by raptors and migratory bird species. These special habitat features support nesting birds, including but not limited to raptors. A pair of nesting great horned owls, dubbed “Athena and Hermes” by FRCC students, have been nesting in one of these trees for over a decade. Signs are posted by FRCC during mating, nesting and fledging periods to insure that the owls do not abandon the nest. Owlets are frequently seen using the grassy open areas along the CHHOA fences and in the proposed development property. Small mammals in the seeded pasture habitat, as well as doves and pigeons in the property and on campus, provide primary forage for the owls and other raptors. Important dates to protect these owls are included in the following table, compiled by FRCC faculty and students in the 2013 nesting season: Female first on nest: 1/29-1/30 Incubation period: 28-35 days *Note: Egg and hatch dates are estimates based on fledge dates, as these events were not directly observable. Owlets are estimated to be six weeks old at time of fledge. These dates are consistent with literature provided by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) which suggests that courtship of great horned owls occurs in January, and then nesting activity occurs from February through June (Raptor Monitoring Guidebook, CPW). Great horned owls brood Eggs Hatch Fledge* 1. 2/5-2/11 1. Aprx 3/12 1. 4/23 2. 2/12-2/18 2. Aprx 3/19 2. 4/30-5/1 3. 2/15-2/21 3. Aprx 3/22 3. 5/3 4. 2/18-2/24 4. Aprx 3/25 4. 5/6 3 for 21-28 days post hatch, fledging occurs 40-50 days post hatch, and then post fledge dependency to the nest occurs for another 7-14 days (D. Klute, CPW). A recommended buffer zone for these and other urban raptors is 200 meters during nesting activities (BLM Guide to Raptor Conservation in the western United States, pg. 61). However, since this owl species is more urban-adapted than many other raptors, a smaller buffer could potentially be tolerated. Due to regular wildlife use of the habitat features on the property, especially the irrigation ditch and the FRCC nature trail along this ditch, CHHOA and the City of Fort Collins both agree that the development property is a wildlife corridor. A wildlife corridor is defined as an area of natural habitat that serves as a conduit for wildlife movement between known wildlife reservoirs that have been fragmented by human activities. We have a large wildlife reservoir just to the west of Shields in the Cathy Fromme Prairie. The wildlife is drawn into Clarendon Hills (CH) from the Cathy Fromme Prairie via Fossil Creek. They utilize the cover and food sources provided by the irrigation canal and retention ponds within the CH neighborhood. Significant wildlife activity can be seen along the irrigation canal south of FRCC all the way to Ridgeview Park and beyond. A map has been submitted to the City showing the connectivity and is included here by reference (Dr. Raymond Watts, “Terrestrial Wildlife Corridors near Front Range Community College, Larimer Campus in a Landscape Context”, 2013). In essence, the wildlife corridor runs through the proposed development property and also along the FRCC nature trail. 2. Comments on the Ecological Characterization Study: The ecological characterization study (ECS) conducted by Wildland Consultants, Inc. was done at the request and initiative of FRCC. CHHOA greatly appreciates this exercise, which was not a City of Fort Collins requirement, but was in keeping with the intentions of the CHHOA and the warranty deed that restricts development and use on the proposed property. We appreciate that the ECS acknowledges the irrigation ditch as an urban wildlife corridor. We have specific comments and requests that should be addressed for the ECS to be a robust and interpretable assessment of the property’s ecological value. 4 1.) When were the observations of species use made? No dates are provided, so it is unclear how many visits were made, and what the environmental conditions were during those visits. PLEASE PROVIDE DATES AND WHETHER MIGRATORY SPECIES WOULD HAVE BEEN OBSERVED IN THOSE SAMPLE DATES. 2.) Was staff from FRCC’s own Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources consulted in regards to the habitat quality and wildlife use of the ditch? This department and its students have conducted a number of observational studies on the nature trail and on the nesting owls. PLEASE PROVIDE A LIST OF CONTACTS CONSULTED TO ASSESS WILDLIFE USE. 3.) There is no mention that the proposed development site is currently under MAJOR disturbance due to the pipeline staging area that Xcel Energy has constructed on the south side of the ditch. IF WILDLIFE OBSERVATIONS AND ASSESSMENTS WERE MADE DURING A PERIOD OF DISTURBANCE, THIS MUST BE NOTED. Otherwise, there is no context to the limited findings presented in the ECS. 4.) The ECS states “There are no known raptor nests on the development site or adjacent areas” (Section 3.1). PLEASE CORRECT THIS TO REFLECT THE FACT THAT TO DATE, THERE HAVE BEEN NESTING RAPTORS (great horned owls) annually nesting along the corridor. Owls (Strigiformes) are classified as raptors by both state (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) and federal (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) agencies. 5.) The ECS states: “The unnamed south irrigation ditch provides a narrow wildlife movement corridor that is generally limited to the development site” (Section 3.2). An analysis of wildlife movement potential shows that animals can move from the Cathy Fromme Prairie, through the irrigation ditch corridor and CH neighborhood, and back to Cathy Fromme (see “Terrestrial Wildlife Corridors near Front Range Community College, Larimer Campus in a Landscape Context”, 2013, Dr. R. Watts). THE ECS SHOULD ACKNOWLEDGE THAT the FRCC’s OWN NATURE TRAIL and 5 GREENBELT are an EXTENSION of this WILDLIFE CORRIDOR. The proposed development site is not a stand-alone site, as the ECS contends. 3. Actions needed to protect the corridor and local biodiversity: Disruption of this wildlife corridor, and failure to preserve the special and significant habitat features associated with this corridor, will disrupt local wildlife movement and diminish the localized biodiversity of surrounding neighborhoods and of FRCC property. As such, we ask the City of Fort Collins to work with FRCC on buffer rules and best practices for development and timing of construction to minimize development disturbance along this corridor. FRCC has already demonstrated good faith with proposed buffer widths, providing a 100 ft buffer from the center of the ditch to protect wildlife use (reduced physical impacts). These buffers need to be adjusted to run from the ditch edge, not the center of the ditch, to be consistent with City recommendations. The FRCC should also consider directional parking lot lighting to reduce interference of nocturnal use of the corridor. In addition, construction activities should be limited to periods that do not interfere with raptor nesting behaviors. Specifically, construction should not occur within 200 meters of the owl nests from January 1 through June to allow for successful mating, brooding, fledging and post-fledge activities. Finally, we ask FRCC and the City of Fort Collins to work jointly with the Clarendon Hills and Coventry neighborhoods to preserve this unique urban wildlife corridor which adds value to all entities and to the public. Specifically, we ask that the City designate the area as having special habitat features for wildlife (the large trees, snags and downed woody debris) and that the FRCC work with CHHOA to maintain (or even improve!) these habitat features for long-term wildlife use. Respectfully submitted by the Clarendon Hills Wildlife Team, on behalf of the Clarendon Hills Home Owners Association and homeowners, including 289 petitioners to protect the corridor. October 29, 2013 Lead contact for CHHOA: Ingrid and Mark Layman, Ingrid.Layman@aastarship.com 6 APPENDIX A: SPECIES LIST ON THE PROPERTY AVIFAUNA (Raptors) 1 Great horned owl (nesting pair for the last decade) 2 Swainson’s hawk (nesting pair, until nest pruned out) 3 Sharp-shinned hawk 4 Coopers hawk 5 Prairie falcon* 6 Bald eagle (winter perch, flyovers) 7 Merlin falcon 8 American kestrel 9 Red-tailed hawk (Residents and migratory passerines) 10 American crow 11 American goldfinch 12 American robin 13 American tree sparrow 14 American white pelican (flyover) 15 Barn swallow 16 Black-billed magpie 17 Black-capped chickadee 18 Blue jay 19 Bohemian waxwing 20 Broad-tailed hummingbird 21 Canada goose (nesting) 22 Cedar waxwing 23 Common grackle 24 Common nighthawk (flyover) 25 Common raven 26 Dark-eyed junco 27 Downy woodpecker 28 Eurasian collared dove 29 European starling 30 Great blue heron (flyover) 31 Hairy woodpecker 32 Horned lark 33 House finch 7 34 House sparrow 35 Killdeer 36 Lazuli bunting 37 Mallard 38 Meadowlark 39 Mountain chickadee 40 Mourning dove 41 Nighthawk 42 Northern flicker 43 Red-breasted nuthatch 44 Red-winged blackbird 45 Ring-billed gull 46 Rock pigeon 47 Rough-legged hawk 48 Rufous hummingbird 49 Sandhill crane (flyover) 50 Scrub jay 51 Steller’s jay 52 Townsend’s solitaire 53 Tree swallow 54 Turkey Vulture 55 Western Kingbird 56 Western meadowlark 57 Western tanager 58 White-breasted nuthatch 59 White-crowned sparrow 60 Yellow warbler HERPETOFAUNA 61 Bull snakes 62 Common garter snake 63 Plains garter snake 64 Prairie rattlesnake* MAMMALS 65 Big brown bat 66 Other bat species 67 Black bear 68 Bobcat* 69 Cottontail rabbit 70 Coyote 8 71 Deer mouse 72 Gray fox* 73 Mountain lion* 74 Mule deer* 75 Raccoon 76 Red fox 77 Red fox squirrel 78 Striped skunk 79 Meadow vole AQUATIC SPECIES 80 Crayfish 81 Aquatic beetles 82 Hemipterans (water striders, etc.) 83 Tiger salamander *: Species with asterisks are seen less frequently Bird list primarily compiled by Alan Godwin, 4801 Langdale Ct., using the City of Fort Collins “CHECKLIST OF LOCAL BIRDS” format. File: BirdList10-15-2013 Additional bird, mammal and herptile species compiled by: neighbors bordering the property, wildlife biologists, ecological researchers and consultants, wildlife veterinarians, environmental engineers, and master birders who are homeowners in Clarendon Hills; Colorado Parks and Wildlife; and Front Range Community College Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources Department. Please contact Dr. Nicole Vieira or Mark Vieira for further information: Dr. Nicole Vieira, Assistant Professor Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Biology Department Nicole.vieira@colostate.edu Mark Vieira, Wildlife Biologist Colorado Parks and Wildlife Mark.vieira@state.co.us 9 Watching the owl nest! Hello Clarendon Hills, FRCC Expansion, impact on wildlife corridor Petition to Preserve and Protect Wildlife Diversity in Clarendon Hills Front Range Community College is rapidly moving towards the construction of a parking lot on the north side of the irrigation ditch located in the empty field South of the College We are concerned about the impact this will have on our neighborhood wildlife, and more regionally, on the biodiversity of south Fort Collins wildlife. The goal of this petition is to drive the parking lot as far north as possible and simultaneously preserve as much of the area in its natural state as possible. A wildlife corridor is defined as an area of natural habitat that serves as a conduit for wildlife movement between known wildlife reservoirs that have been fragmented by human activities. We have a large wildlife reservoir just to the west of Shields in the Cathy Fromme Prairie. The wildlife is drawn into Clarendon Hills from the Cathy Fromme Prairie via Fossil Creek. They utilize the cover and food sources provided by the irrigation canal and detention ponds. Significant wildlife activity can be seen along the irrigation canal south of FRCC all the way to Ridgeview Park and beyond. Disruption of this corridor, or failure to preserve a wide swatch of natural landscape, will disrupt local wildlife movement, detract from the beauty of our neighborhood, and diminish the biodiversity of our wild visitors. Clarendon Hills has many environmental experts and wildlife enthusiasts. From amateur birdwatchers and nature photographers to professional wildlife biologists, naturalists, and veterinarians; our neighborhood values these natural visitors. The sheer number of bird feeders, butterfly gardens, and wildlife-friendly yards reinforce this fact. We have reports of a very diverse and healthy wildlife population in this area. (See Appendix A overleaf) We fear that the expansion of FRCC will greatly diminish, if not eliminate, this amazing biodiversity and quality of life in our neighborhood. This petition documents Clarendon Hills’ desire to preserve as much of the property south of FRCC in its natural state as possible and to protect and preserve the wildlife corridor. By signing this petition you are stating your desire to support and minimize the impact of the planned FRCC parking lot development to our wild visitors. Thank you for your support. Please protect the wildlife corridor on the vacant lot south of FRCC. Address: _______________________________________________ Signed: ________________________________________ Date: ____________ Printed Name: __________________________________ Signed: ________________________________________ Date: ____________ Printed Name: __________________________________ Appendix A: Species sightings in Clarendon Hills neighborhood 1. Red fox 2. Gray fox 3. Raccoon 4. Striped skunk 5. Red fox squirrel 6. Coyote 7. Bats 8. Cottontail rabbits 9. Field mice 10. Voles 11. Mule deer 12. Bobcat 13. Mountain lion 14. Common garter snake 15. Plains garter snake 16. Bull snakes 17. Prairie rattlesnakes 18. Crayfish 19. Western tanagers 20. Broad tailed hummingbirds 21. Rufous hummingbirds 22. Black-chinned hummingbirds 23. Grackles 24. Red-winged blackbirds 25. Blue jays 26. Scrub jays 27. Flickers 28. Downy woodpeckers 29. Chickadees 30. Juncos 31. Warblers 32. Mourning doves 33. American kestrels 34. Red tailed hawks 35. Swainson’s hawks 36. Sharp-shinned hawks 37. Coopers hawks 38. Ravens 39. Crows 40. Lazuli buntings 41. Bald eagles 42. Prairie falcons 43. Mallard ducks 44. Canada geese 45. Nuthatches 46. Great blue heron 47. Rock doves 48. Magpies 49. Meadowlark 50. Nighthawks 51. Cedar waxwings 52. Great horned owls From: Edwin T. Neset To: Seth Lorson Cc: swftc.connected@yahoo.com Subject: FRCC Development Review Date: Tuesday, October 01, 2013 8:45:49 AM We live in Clarendon Hills and are going to be out of town tomorrow. I thought I would pass on my thoughts regarding the proposed expansion of the Front Range Community College: 1. If they expect to dramatically increase their enrollment over the next few years then they should find another location for their campus. There is just not enough room to keep expanding at the current location. 2. The initial plan to put an auto workshop in the expanded site would be a dramatic change for the bad for the Clarendon Hills residents living in the area. Noise and pollution would definitely increase. 3. If the college now plans to put just parking in the area then they should put a buffer zone of a fence and trees/shrubs between the parking area and the neighborhood. 4. There should be NO access to the parking area from the Clarendon Hills residential area. We already have problems getting in and out of the area from Hinsdale onto Harmony Road and if students are allowed to access the parking lot from Clarendon Hills Drive, it will just create more problems to access the residential areas (not factoring in the safety and noise concerns). Terry and Anita Neset 5130 Abbey Road Fort Collins, CO 80526 From: Barb Ridgley To: Seth Lorson Subject: FRCC Expansion Date: Thursday, October 03, 2013 11:11:34 PM I was at the neighborhood meeting last night regarding the expansion of Front Range Community College. Along with the points made last night, I wanted to add a few thoughts. It was said in the meeting “We don’t expect to continue to expand this campus indefinitely”. I believe that Front Range Community College plays a good role in the community. I also see this campus continuing to grow, as Northern Colorado population increases. I saw proposals to build at least 3 new buildings and to expand others. Why doesn’t FRCC pursue buying land for a new campus and build these new buildings on the new land in an area where they can expand and grow? It doesn’t make sense to keep adding to a campus that is bound on all sides by residential neighborhoods. I also think that in this computer era – FRCC needs to begin looking at expanding its Online classes, so less students need to commute to campus on a daily basis. I don’t really want to look over a sea of asphalt parking lots every time I walk down Clarendon Hills Drive and Langdale Drive. Being an IT professional working at HP, I am aware of so many new technologies that allow for great training of students virtually. Although I realize that that some things just can’t be taught remotely (i.e. automotive and welding), I know math, science, Information Technology, art classes, and business all have classes that would work remotely. I work from my home, my team is virtual, we are spread all over the world. We hold meetings, conference calls, and work together. My point is that it works – it works for businesses, and it should be considered for colleges as well. I am in agreement with the majority of the speakers last night, in that I don’t believe the current campus is a good place to put the new Integrated Technology building. It needs to be in a light industrial zoned area, not in a low density housing area. The concern raised about Interference is a concern for the people of Coventry. I would be furious if I lived 65 feet from that building and had no way to connect to my personal wireless router! Thanks for listening. Barb Ridgley 930 Alexa Way Fort Collins, CO 80526 From: Edlyn Meringolo To: Seth Lorson Subject: Front Range Community College - SPAR Submittal for SW parking Lot Date: Friday, October 18, 2013 12:30:47 PM Dear Mr. Lorson, I attended the Oct. 2, 2013 community meeting and just received the meeting minutes. One of the many issues with the proposed parking lot plan was specifically related to the increase in traffic and potential traffic accidents . One of the citizens at the meeting mentioned that her daughter riding a bike was hit by a FRCC student. During the past week, the Coloradoan has had articles about the increase in bicycle/ car accidents There were 3 in 1 day this week. I am concerned that the proposed parking lot to include 425 new spaces once its built out will have a detrimental and potential dangerous impact on our citizens. There are plans to expand the Fossil Creek bike trail from College to Shield. This will bring more people riding their bike up and down Shields and crossing the entry road to the proposed parking lot. Please consider these issues in your review. Thanks You, Edlyn Meringolo 5112 Abbey Road Clarendon Hills From: joyce carroll To: Seth Lorson; Lindsay Ex Date: Friday, October 11, 2013 12:13:19 PM As to the FRCC expansion, I would like you both to take a look at the school's track record. Their last expansion was a parking lot on the south side of campus. They put up landscaping intended to screen the houses in Clarendon Hills and the nature trail. In this so called buffer zone, a number of the trees have died and have not been replaced. The quality of the trees they put was marginal and not the type that would give residents and trail users any sort of screening. In addition, the trees were spaced so far apart, they will never be able to provide the necessary buffer effect. At the recent meeting, they mentioned that heaviest use of the parking lot is during the school year and not in the summer. So why did they put in deciduous trees, that only leaf out in the summer? Why aren't they all evergreen trees that would give year round coverage ? Many of us have no trouble seeing the parking lot from our windows. In addition, can also hear the cars' radios, yes, even in the winter.(the students do love turning up the bass) If they had fuller, thicker, evergreen trees like the ones they put to the west of this area it would not only block people seeing the parking lot, but also hearing it in their houses. Why did they choose not to continue those trees ? Are there any regulations for types of trees that should be used for buffers or can FRCC once again put in any low grade trees they wish and call it good? Could FRCC be persuaded to put the appropriate trees in this area as well as the new area that is under discussion? They did mention they want to be good neighbors and appropriate plantings would go a long way towards that stated goal. Thank you for your time and consideration, Joyce Carroll From: Access Fort Collins To: scolorosa@hotmail.com Cc: Ward Stanford; Seth Lorson Subject: RE: City of Fort Collins case number 24023 Date: Wednesday, October 02, 2013 1:05:18 PM Sara, Your comment was forward to the Zoning Department, but Zoning really isn't involved in this issue. I have reassigned this to Ward Standford (Traffic) and Seth Lorson (Planning). Peter Barnes Zoning Administrator Original Request Due to the traffic at FRCC on Harmony and Starflower, I would like to recommend adding a left turn light for north and south - bound traffic on Starflower. There are many times that as I leave my neighborhood, I have to sit through three and four lights in order to turn onto Harmony. The traffic coming out of FRCC do not obey traffic laws, by not using their turn signals. In addition, with the proposed addition to the FRCC campus, there may be an increase in traffic coming from the parking lot. Please keep the students and neighborhood safe. Installing turn signals are a simple fix. From: Layman, Mark C (PCGBU TCE&Q) To: Seth Lorson Cc: Laurie Kadrich; "Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com" Subject: RE: FRCC Date: Wednesday, August 21, 2013 7:38:04 AM Attachments: FRCC Facilities Master Plan Update Larimer Campus October 2012.pdf Seth, Thank you very much for you and your office’s engagement and leadership with the FRCC expansion SPAR. We have shared the news of this development with the community and have received positive feedback. Thanks also for the status update. Please keep us informed as substantive progress is made. My sense is that within this SPAR, FRCC’s overall plan will be discussed. In October 2012 FRCC updated their Facilities Master Plan (attached). Of special note is that FRCC’s Larimer campus currently has 191,428 gross sq. ft. of facilities. FRCC’s updated master plan details adding 82,000 sq. ft. of new construction, a 43% increase in facilities. FRCC has also discussed adding a 45,000 sq. ft. building for their Allied Health program. Adding the combined total of 127,000 sq. ft. of new facilities will enlarge FRCC’s capacity by 66%. Additionally, FRCC’s master plan notes, “The amount of parking will be a major concern. If adding facilities requires additional faculty, staff, and students, parking demand will increase. Parking and building space are already beginning to compete for land use.” As you move forward with FRCC I would like you to discuss with them whether the campus is maxed out in terms of facility/building space and parking. The Larimer campus is fairly unique in the Colorado Community College System given that it is closely surrounded by residential communities on all sides, i.e. residentially land-locked. As other Colorado Community Colleges have done, FRCC may be better served to develop and expand into a new campus. Located elsewhere in the city, this new location could provide FRCC with room to expand and the opportunity to serve a geographically different segment of the market. Please find attached FRCC’s Facilities Master Plan Update Larimer Campus Oct 2012 document. Note this can also be found on the State Board of Community Colleges and Occupational Education website at: http://www.cccs.edu/SBCCOE/sbccoe.html The Master plan can be found at: http://www.cccs.edu/SBCCOE/Minutes.html ** Please see the minutes from November 14, 2012 K sq ft. Oct 2012 Master Plan April 2013 Building Plan Main Campus 191.4 192.4 New Construction Int Tech 30.0 28.8 Red Cloud 26.8 23.0 Mt Antero 10.0 11.4 Blanca Peak 15.0 October 2012 plan 81.8 63.2 Campus Growth % 43% 33% Allied Health 45 45 Total Growth 126.8 108.2 Campus Growth % 66% 56% Mark Layman 908 Langdale Drive Fort Collins, Co 80526 HM: 970-223-4321 From: Seth Lorson [mailto:slorson@fcgov.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2013 8:32 AM To: Layman, Mark C (PCGBU TCE&Q); 'Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com' Cc: Laurie Kadrich Subject: RE: FRCC Hi Mark, I am planning a conference call between FRCC and Peak Community Church to discuss a coordinated process to subdivide the church lot and process the FRCC SPAR. I do not yet have details regarding the proposal but I have heard that they are not planning to develop the applied technology education building on the church lot. I will update you after our conference call. Best regards, Seth Seth E. Lorson, AICP | City Planner City of Fort Collins 281 N. College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80522 970.224.6189 slorson@fcgov.com From: Layman, Mark C (PCGBU TCE&Q) [mailto:mark.layman@hp.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2013 3:40 AM To: Seth Lorson; 'Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com' Cc: Laurie Kadrich Subject: RE: FRCC Hello Seth, What is the current status of FRCC’s SPAR process? Have they submitted their plans? If not, have they indicated when they will? Do you have a schedule for working thru the different steps of the SPAR? Thank you, Mark Layman 908 Langdale Drive Fort Collins, Co 80526 HM: 970-223-4321 From: Seth Lorson [mailto:slorson@fcgov.com] Sent: Thursday, August 08, 2013 5:03 PM To: Laurie Kadrich; 'Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com'; Layman, Mark C (PCGBU TCE&Q) Cc: Gerry Horak; Steve Roy; Darin Atteberry; Karen Cumbo Subject: RE: FRCC Greetings Mark, Nice speaking with you. I’m looking forward to our meeting on Monday where we can walk through the neighborhood’s concerns. And by then, I should have a schedule coordinated with Front Range Community College for their Site Plan Advisory Review (SPAR) process with the City of Fort Collins, which I can share with your team. Again, the meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 12, at 3 P.M., at 281 N. College in the NS Venti Room. Best regards, Seth Seth E. Lorson, AICP | City Planner City of Fort Collins 281 N. College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80522 970.224.6189 slorson@fcgov.com From: Laurie Kadrich Sent: Thursday, August 08, 2013 4:12 PM To: 'Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com'; 'mark.layman@hp.com' Cc: Seth Lorson; Gerry Horak; Steve Roy; Darin Atteberry; Karen Cumbo Subject: FRCC Dear Mark and Ingrid, I am forwarding your concerns to the planner assigned to review the Front Range Community College plan. Front Range has agreed to voluntarily review their project through a city process. This will ensure a neighborhood meeting will be held and that neighbors comments and concerns will be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Board for consideration. I should note, however that the Planning and Zoning Board’s review is advisory in nature. However, as I have met with representatives from Front Range Community College, I believe they are interested in responding to the concerns expressed by neighbors. By sending this email you will be notified of any further meetings and of the process Front Range will be required to follow by Mr. Seth Lorson, who is the planner assigned to this project. I know a lot of communications regarding this project have occurred since you wrote this to us and I am uncertain whether I need to communicate additional information or if you have heard information in other meetings, so please let me know if you would like to visit further on this. I can be reached at 221-6765. Mark and Ingrid Layman 908 Langdale Drive Fort Collins, CO 80526 July 30, 2013 RE: FRCC purchase and development of Peak Community Church property Dear Council Members, We are the designated liaisons for the Clarendon Hills neighborhood concerning an impending purchase and development by Front Range Community College (FRCC), 4616 S Shields St., Fort Collins, CO 80526. For the past 17 years, we have lived in the neighborhood at 908 Langdale Drive. Our home adjoins an 8-acre parcel of vacant land located at Shields Street and Clarendon Hills Drive, south of the FRCC campus. When we bought our home we did so knowing that the vacant land was owned by the Peak Community Church, formerly the First Church of God, and zoned residential. Currently, the Peak Community Church is in the process of selling this property to FRCC which plans to develop the land with additional school buildings and parking lots. This property will expand FRCC’s campus by 20%. We are gravely concerned about this new development activity, the impact to our neighborhood, and the manner in which it is being conducted. We have had two meetings between ourselves, 2 to 3 members of our HOA, and FRCC. We have been told generalities of the FRCC plan for the property, but very little acknowledgement of the needs of our neighborhood. FRCC has communicated to Clarendon Hills that it is not required to go through the City’s zoning or planning processes, since it is affiliated with the State. However, we have heard that they plan on requesting a zoning change. FRCC has also told us that they will break ground as soon as they close on the property in August so that they can finish the first building in time for the 2014 Fall Semester. We are very concerned by the speed at which this development is being processed and would like the City’s involvement via a site plan advisory review. Of special note, is that this property is bound by a Warranty Deed set forth in 1991. The Deed stipulates that “No building or other structure shall be erected, placed or altered on the herein – described property until plans and specifications of the building and landscaping have been approved by the Architectural Control Committee of the Clarendon Hills Subdivision.” See Deed attached. Our HOA committee has not received nor approved FRCC’s improvement plans. An illustration of our concern is that, according to an FRCC pencil drawing, FRCC’s “Phase 1” of construction includes an initial 28,806 Sq. Ft., single level Integrated Technology Building. This industrial building will house the Automotive Tech, Welding, and Clean Energy programs. The building will have 6+ automotive bays, welding machines, and solar panel assembly facilities--all facing away from the main campus toward the Clarendon Hills neighborhood. FRCC says that the building will have 14’ ceilings to accommodate lifts and 8-10’ tall solid white metal fencing which will provide security for Auto/Welding assets including automobiles, which will be stored outside. In contrast, the north side of the building, which faces the rest of the college and away from our neighborhood, will contain staff offices, student space, and two classrooms. The remainder of the property will be assigned to parking lots and possibly an additional building in the future. The impact to our neighborhood is that it moves Clarendon Hills into an industrial setting -- significantly increasing sound pollution, introduces hazardous emissions, and brings an industrial setting to a quality residential neighborhood. Clarendon Hills Neighborhood current concerns regarding FRCC expansion: 1. Zoning: Currently Residential. Proposed use: industrial. - 6+ automotive bays, a racking system, pneumatic lifts and tools as well as a fleet of cars parked outside surrounded by an 8-10 ft. white metal fence. - Welding and fabrication - Solar panel assembly facility - Decibel levels of automotive, welding, solar tools and fabrication - Hours of operation 2. Parking Expansion: Includes additional parking covering multiple acres, situated within feet of homes and perimeters of the adjoining Clarendon Hills neighborhood. - Impact of the increase of students and vehicles parking in our neighborhood. - Ingress/egress of vehicles via Clarendon Hills Dr. or Langdale Dr. - Vehicle headlights and parking lot lighting 3. Destruction of property values in Clarendon Hills. 4. Environmental: - Noise pollution - pneumatic and industrial tools, HVAC, parking, trash services, engines running with and without mufflers, and outdoor activities/classes. - Heat pollution - parking lots, buildings. - Light pollution – lighted parking lots & buildings, vehicle headlights. - Storm water drainage and soil erosion. - Storage and use of hazardous materials. - Affect on City water and sanitary systems. - Ecological impact on the plants and animals in the 8-acre vacant lot. 5. Fast-track of this project needs to go through a Fort Collins City review/approval process as well as input from the surrounding neighborhoods. 6. Contractual requirements of the Warranty Deed. 7. Future FRCC growth: - We need a plan that legally protects our neighborhood from future FRCC growth and ensures their compliance with the Warranty Deed. - FRCC has suggested a second building on this site. What process will that project go through? We ask the Council to please intercede on our behalf by requiring FRCC to comply with the Warranty Deed, have appropriate time for review (Community, Zoning, etc.), and to support the Clarendon Hills neighborhood to maintain our property values and quality of life in this beautiful community. Clarendon Hills considers this matter to be urgent. We have received significant feedback from our neighbors regarding the industrialized change and the impacts to the quality of the overall area. We look forward to your earliest reply. We are available at the phone numbers and email addresses below. Sincerely, Mark and Ingrid Layman Clarendon Hills - FRCC Expansion Communications Liaisons Mark (970) 231-8543 Email: mark.layman@hp.com Ingrid (970) 231-8615 Email: Ingrid.layman@aastarship.com 908 Langdale Drive Fort Collins, CO 80526 Terrestrial Wildlife Corridors near Front Range Community College, Larimer Campus in a Landscape Context A Report for the Clarendon Hills Wildlife Group and a Public Comment on the Proposed Parking Lot Development on a Parcel Adjacent to the Southwest Perimeter of Front Range Community College by Raymond D. Watts, Ph.D. 815 Langdale Drive, Fort Collins 80526 October 2013 Focus of Report: Ground Dwelling Animals Roads and fences inhibit movement of terrestrial (ground dwelling) animals and focus wildlife occupancy and movement patterns into corridors—zones where barriers to movement are minimized and concealment is maximized. In contrast, birds inhabit and move with an entirely different set of considerations and constraints. This report focuses on factors that influence terrestrial animals, and on opportunities to maintain and enhance populations and movement of terrestrial wildlife across the area. Landscape Context In order to appreciate the value of wildlife-friendly corridors on the campus of FRCC and the surrounding neighborhoods, it is helpful to look at the FRCC setting in a larger development context (Map 1). There are two landscape factors to consider: (1) the ease or difficulty that animals experience in moving through a particular part of the landscape (landscape permeability); and (2) hazards to wildlife. Shields St and Harmony Rd, the two major roads adjacent to the area, are relatively impervious to animal movement owing to long segments that are solidly fenced or walled. These roads also present hazardous crossings for animals of all sizes. Animals certainly cross both roads, particularly at night, using barrier gaps at Pyrenees, Westbury, and Starflower streets. The fences on the Clarendon Hills (east) side of Shields are relatively more permeable, as there is a gap in fencing at the end of each Clarendon Hills cul-de-sac. Clarendon Hills, Westbury, and Coventry have high internal densities of solid fencing that inhibits movement of larger mammals, particularly mule deer; smaller mammals (amphibians, rodents, skunks, raccoons, and foxes) move more readily through a maze of fencing gaps. Le Jardin, Applewood, and Scenic Knolls, the neighborhoods that border on the Cathy Fromme Prairie, generally have split rail fences that present little movement resistance for animals of all sizes. T06N R69W T07N R69W 03 02 35 11 34 01 10 36 12 Fort Collins S SHIELDS ST S COLLEGEAVE WHARMONYRD FOSSILCREEKDR Dogs and cats, common in all neighborhoods, are hazards to many wildlife species and are generally avoided by wild animals. Many species also exhibit aversion to humans, although humans generally do not pose a direct threat. Landscape permeability offers escape routes when there are encounters between wild animals and domestic animals or humans. The great reservoir of wildlife habitat in the area is the Cathy Fromme Prairie, which extends substantially farther to the south and west than shown on Map 1, and connects directly to the foothill ridges and valleys. Animals of all sizes can move freely across the low density, rail fenced subdivisions of Scenic Knolls and Applewood toward the Redtail Grove Natural Area and into the fields along the west side of the BNSF railroad tracks. Animals that move in this pattern are then in a habitat cul-de-sac, hemmed in by dense, solidly fenced developments and busy roads on the west, north, and east sides. East-west pathways through the neighborhoods of Clarendon Hills, Coventry, Westbury, and Le Jardin thus provide two benefits: (1) pathways for wildlife to move in both directions between the open fields along the west side of the railroad tracks, and the large natural areas to the west and southwest; and (2) opportunities for residents to view and appreciate wildlife. Water Streams and ditches, along with their associated riparian vegetation corridors, are particularly important because wet areas have higher biological diversity than the broader landscape. Dense vegetation provides concealment that is important to many terrestrial species, and types of food that are unavailable in drier zones. Numerous bird species use riparian zones either principally (e.g. for nesting), intermittently for food and water, or as migratory habitat. The principal watercourse in the area is Fossil Creek (Map 2), with headwaters in the Cathy Fromme Prairie and running from there eastward to Redtail Grove. Water is added to Fossil Creek by the Trilby Lateral Ditch, which runs north to south through Westbury and then adds flow to Fossil Creek via a natural tributary that crosses the southwest corner of Clarendon Hills. A diversion from the Trilby Lateral in Le Jardin feeds an underground culvert that runs east to emerge on the east side of Shields Street, where it forms the Map 2. Shows watercourses in more detail, although many small irrigation ditches are omitted. Fossil Creek and its tributaries are blue; ditches are turquoise; the stormwater and spring-fed wetland through the FRCC campus is green (at its eastern end this is much disturbed Mail Creek); and the chain of ponds through Clarendon Hills is red (cross hatching of this feature is explained below). Railroad tracks along the east margin are magenta . surface ditch that bisects the property proposed for purchase and development by FRCC. This flow goes underground again briefly, and re-emerges farther east on the FRCC campus, then goes underground again through Coventry and Ridgeview Park. All natural watercourses, along with associated flood plains and riparian zones, comprise de facto wildlife corridors. Existing Corridors across Developed Land The band of unpaved land along the south margin of the current FRCC campus, which is partly bounded by a ditch, forms a significant east-west corridor. On the east end, this corridor gives way to a pathway through Coventry, although the total distance between structures there is as little as 50 ft., which is narrow enough to diminish its corridor value. At the west end, this corridor leads to Shields St and continuous walls and fences except for a small gap at Westbury Drive. To the east, the corridor ends at Ridgeview Park, which is bounded on its east side by homes on Crest Rd, about half of which have unfenced yards. Typical gaps between homes on Crest Rd are 20 feet, which is less than optimal for wildlife passage. Clarendon Hills maintains a significant east-west corridor that contains a chain of spring fed ponds (Map 3). Natural vegetation along this corridor has generally been replaced by park-like landscaping. The average width measured on the six cross sections shown on Map 3, is 129 feet; the minimum width is 84 feet; the length is 1945 feet; and the area is approximately 6 acres. The lack of natural vegetation, which would provide concealment and add habitat value, is partially compensated by the near absence of fences behind homes adjacent to this common area. Thus, animals using this corridor can find concealment on adjacent private properties. On the west end, there is an additional pond on the west side of Clarendon Hills Dr, and then cul-de- sac streets ending at fences along Shields St (these fences have gaps that allow wildlife passage). The west end of the Clarendon Hills common area is not what one would intentionally design for a wildlife corridor, because it creates another habitat cul-de-sac on a small scale, but the unimpeded corridor east of Clarendon Hills Dr nevertheless adds considerable east-west movement possibilities. Rail fences at the east end of this corridor give wildlife access to the large fields along the west side of the railroad tracks. The corridors through the Clarendon Hills common area and along the south margin of the FRCC campus have one significant hazard zone at their western termini: Shields Street, with its high traffic volumes and speeds. Ashford and Hinsdale, the streets crossed by these corridors, have curves, stop signs, and radar speed monitoring close to potential wildlife crossing areas; slow traffic speeds and generally low volumes limit the potential for animal-vehicle collisions. The net effect is to provide wildlife friendly passage for well over half the distance between the open fields along the BNSF railroad tracks and the large habitat areas of the Cathy Fromme Prairie and Fossil Creek. Map 3. The Clarendon Hills Common Area corridor, which incorporates a chain of ponds. Red numbers and lines indicate measured distances in feet. 116 184 161 84 90 137 1945 The Urban Ecosystem Other comments on the proposed development list the diverse wildlife that has been observed in Clarendon Hills and its neighboring communities. Urban ecosystems are not, and cannot be, natural ecosystems; in fact urban ecosystems support many non native species, in part owing to the abundant tree and shrub cover of the urban landscape. Although the local ecosystem is disturbed from what would naturally occur, it is nevertheless an intact, functioning, and diverse ecosystem that provides a robust food web and includes apex predators. Fences, large roads, and other cultural features fragment the landscape, diminish genetic diversity and biodiversity, and ultimately populations of species that are not well adapted to the urban environment. Maintenance of wildlife friendly corridors is the only defense against habitat fragmentation. Appreciation of wildlife in this corner of Fort Collins is beyond dispute: more than 250 signatures have been applied to a petition stating support for maintenance of the wildlife corridor at FRCC. Summary and Conclusions There are already many significant barriers to wildlife movement around the FRCC campus and its surrounding neighborhoods. The objective now cannot realistically be to provide ideal wildlife corridors, but rather to maintain and improve the bits and pieces of corridors that remain. The benefits that can be realized by maintaining these corridors are: • diminished animal-vehicle collisions (benefit to animals and motorists) • more frequent animal sightings in neighborhoods (cultural and educational value) • maintenance of biodiversity (ecological value). East-west travel corridors are particularly lacking in the area; without these, animals that move relatively freely from the foothills and the Cathy Fromme Prairie, east toward the railroad tracks, and then north along the west side of the tracks, are in a travel cul-de-sac. Exits across Harmony Rd to the north and the busy travel corridors to the east are deadly. With additional opportunities to move west, some animals will find their way south to the relatively safe corridor along Fossil Creek, to the undeveloped areas to the northwest of the Harmony-Shields intersection, or through the few unfenced gaps into Westbury and thence along the Trilby Lateral Ditch. The community of Clarendon Hills invests large sums to maintain its east-west open space corridor. This effort has not been made specifically for wildlife, but animals frequent this corridor and benefit from it, and residents benefit from frequent wildlife sightings. Clarendon Hills residents encourage FRCC and the City of Fort Collins not only to maintain the current wildlife corridor along the south edge of the FRCC campus, but to improve it. Additional plantings that provide concealment would simultaneously improve habitat value and esthetic appeal. A corridor of at least 100 foot width would be an asset to FRCC and to the community. 1 Seth Lorson Subject: FW: FRCC - Detention pond From: sbevans5@msn.com [mailto:sbevans5@msn.com] Sent: Friday, October 25, 2013 5:06 PM To: Ingrid Layman Subject: Detention pond Good afternoon, Ingrid, I am sending you some of our concerns we have over the intended detention pond at FRCC that we discussed at our last meeting. We have ground movement on our properties, just behind FRCC (Bob and Pat's fence is on the verge of falling down) and with the depth of the pond, we're concerned that more and more of our property will fall away. From the diagram, you showed me, it looks like the pond will be very close to the ditch, which is where the big Cottonwood trees stand (one having the owls' nest) - are they taking them out, or taking the chance that the trees won't be falling into their pond (due to our ground movement)?? Before FRCC had the trees trimmed, one of the Cottonwoods slowly leaned over into our property until its branches were touching the ground. There is also a concern about the water table - we have been pumping our sump a good portion of this year (and in years past). There has been water seeping out of the ground over by Bob and Pat's fence (to the west) as well as other water seeping over near the owl tree. Will this water be sitting in the pond to stale and become stinky? If they claim this is to be a "dry" pond, then I don't think they've taken into consideration the depth of the water table in this area. One of our other concerns is what the pond will be made of, will it be cemented, will it be grass, or will it be rock? And how is it going to be maintained? Will we need to put up with an eyesore??? I understand FRCC needs to have somewhere for the storm water, from the parking lot, to flow to, but this pond's situation is going to be a bit higher than most of the proposed lot - how is the water going to be directed into the pond, and most importantly, how is it to flow out? I'm afraid with all these changes, that FRCC is making to the area, we will be losing our wildlife visitors - which is one of the reasons we love about living here. It is really sad that FRCC is taking every bit of "green" space to build and cover with asphalt. Definitely not "Eco" friendly. Becky November 6, 2013 Dear Lindsay and Seth, I would like to include the Clarendon Hills petition to Preserve and Protect the Wildlife Corridor in the public record for the property being purchased by FRCC. As of today, 292 neighbors of the Clarendon Hills subdivision have signed this petition with a desire to support and protect the amazing biodiversity of the wildlife corridor and the value and enjoyment this corridor brings to the homeowners in Clarendon Hills. Thank you, Ingrid Layman Communications Liaison Clarendon Hills HOA & Wildlife Corridor Team REGENCYDR HINSDALE DR CREST RD S MASON ST WAKEROBIN LN APPLE DR PARADISELN SCENIC DR HILLDALE DR CLARENDON HILLS DR WARBLER DR HEPPLEWHITECT SNEAD DR STARFLOWER DR SENECA ST ASHFORD LN PALMER DR FOXHILLS DR WESTBURYDR FRONTAGERD E BUENODR BENTLEYPL CORSICADR SMOKEY ST FOSSILRIDGE DR MARIGOLD LN TOWHEE ST FAIRWAYLN PLATEAU CT APPLE BLOSSOMLN MILKY WAY DEER CREEK LN PRAIRIE ST WOODLAND WAY CRAIGDR CAMERONDR FOSSILBLVD CHIPPENDALEDR GOSHAWK DR BORDEAUX DR PYRENEESDR GOLDENEYE DR VENUSAVE E HARMONYRD LANGDALEDR BEAR CREEKDR HILLVIEW CT OGDEN CT ALEXA CT MCGRAW DR FOSSILCT N ROCHELLE CIR BLUE MOUNTAIN DR KREMMLINGLN THRASHER ST STODDARD DR FROMMECT HOBSONCT KENSINGTON DR VIOLAST RED TAIL CT HAZEL CT PIPITCT HORSESHOE CT OLT CT Fossil Creek Trilby Lateral BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD Trilby Lateral New Mercer Canal Mail Creek Legen Subdivision Tax Parcel PlattedBlo Buildings Garages RockyMou Parks and School Pro Natural Re Incorporate Cre usingdata fro makes no war may not refle T Map 1. Shows the FRCC campus, surrounding developments, and Fort Collins natural areas. FRCC Cathy Fromme Prairie Redtail Grove McGraw ES Ridgeview Park External Milestone Deadline Progress Manual Progress Page 2 Project: 131024 FRCC master sc Date: Thu 10/24/13 Date: Thu 10/24/13 CONCRETE NOTE: PROVIDE TEMPERED GLASS WHERE REQUIRED CMU PROJ. NO. DRAWN: CHECKED: DATE: REVISIONS © OZ ARCHITECTURE SCALE: SHEET NUMBER SHEET TITLE: ISSUED FOR: APPROVED: 3003 LARIMER STREET DENVER, CO 80205 PHONE 303.861.5704 www.ozarch.com 11/7/2013 9:16:59 AM C:\Revit Local Files\812011-FRCC_ITB_A13\812011-FRCC_ITB_A13_mlee.rvt As indicated TECHNOLOGY BLDG. 4616 SOUTH SHIELDS ST. FORT COLLINS, CO 80526 812011.00 Author Checker 11/07/13 CITY SPAR SUBMITTAL ELEVATIONS A2.0 TECHNOLOGY BLDG. Approver 1 East 3/32" = 1'-0" Elevation 2 South 3/32" = 1'-0" Elevation 3 West 3/32" = 1'-0" Elevation 4 North 3/32" = 1'-0" Elevation PHONE 303.861.5704 www.ozarch.com 10/29/2013 12:31:14 PM C:\Revit Local Files\812011-FRCC_ITB_A13\812011-FRCC_ITB_A13_rgreek.rvt As indicated TECHNOLOGY BLDG. 4616 SOUTH SHIELDS ST. FORT COLLINS, CO 80526 812011.00 Author Checker 10/29/13 CITY SPAR SUBMITTAL FLOOR PLAN A1.0 TECHNOLOGY BLDG. Approver 1 INTEGRATED 1/16" = 1'-0" TECH. LEVEL ONE FLOOR PLAN 2 CAMPUS 1" = 200'-0" CONTEXT MAP