Minutes - Planning Commission - 12/06/1994

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south, and accordingly, so will the bus exit. Ms. Frolik noted that the expansion of the site necessitates relocating the existing southernmost enhance to the ball field area to the south, and the existing access to the newly acquired parcels on the south will be eliminated. Staff had also recommended that lighted, school zone signs be installed on C.S.A.H. #5 at both the north and south approaches to the school, however, the Anoka County Highway Department feels that flashing lights are not warranted at this time. Ms. Frolik advised that the required 20 foot deep landscape area adjacent to Nowthen Boulevard will be provided. Also City Code requires a 40- foot buffer to the residential use along the south property line. However, the proximity of the ball fields to the adjacent residences could result in athletic activity encroaching upon the single family lots, and therefore, Staff has recommended that consideration be given to realigning the ball fields somewhat to the north and fencing be installed to increase the buffer area and its effectiveness. Brian McCarty, KKE Architects, Inc., stated that since there will definitely be more bus traffic, they have lengthened the bus drop-off area and will align the exit access with 150th Lane N.W. Commissioner Hendriksen expressed concern about the eastern parking area possibly needing additional access onto C.S.A.H. #5. Mr. McCarty advised that the area has gone from five accesses to three, and they do not feel any more will be warranted. Commissioner Deemer inquired about the loop in the southeastern parking area. Mr. McCarty stated that the intent is to keep thc car traffic separate from the bus traffic but to still provide a drop-off area for car traffic. Commissioner Hendriksen expressed concern about the potential for accidents combining cars dropping children off and cars and children in the parking lot. Commissioner Deemer was also concerned with the buses having to back up. Dick Nybeck! Operations Facilities Director, advised that thc buses do nol[ back up. He stated that the design is just an architect's rendition but is not to scale. He explained that the buses do not pull all the way up to the curb, so when they are ready to leave, they pull forward and out. Commissioner Deemer stated he wouM like to see the car drop-off area in the same area as the bus drop -off. Mr. Nybeek stated that does not work. It is important to keep all traffic out of the bus area. Commissioner Holland suggested moving the access closer to the drop off area so they don't go through the parking area. Ms. Frolik stated that input from Anoka County would be required. Commissioner Holland inquired whether this was consistent with what is done at other schools. Mr. Nybeck stated that it is not. Although a rectangular parking area would be preferred, the building committee is pushing for a drop-off point. Commissioner Hendriksen suggested having the drop-off cars exit where the buses exit. Planning Commission/December 6, 1994 Page 3 of 12