Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 07/14/2011

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residential component. Staff has requested additional information on the number of employees to determine final parking requirements. It appears there should be ample parking on site. The proposed landscape plan appears to generally meet requirements with amendments and additional notes as required in the Staff Review File. Given the current separation and tree cover between the proposed Lot 1 (B-1 General Business District) and the proposed use, it is Staffs opinion that the buffer yard requirements between B-1 and R-3 are satisfied. The Civil Engineering plans are generally acceptable with additional detail included on the plans as noted in the Staff Review File. The Master Park and Trail Plan requires that a trail be constructed on site along Nowthen Boulevard. This trail represents a critical trail link that completes a corridor that has had several segments constructed over the past several years. Staff acknowledges the design constraints near the intersection of Nowthen Boulevard (CSAH 5) and Saint Francis Boulevard (TH 47). Due to existing topography, retaining walls are required. Acknowledging the additional construction costs and the benefit of this connection, Staff has prepared a proposal for a grant opportunity for construction dollars through the Safe Routes to School program due to its proximity to Ramsey Elementary School. There is no guarantee that the City will be successful in securing these dollars, and this trail segment will remain a Stage I Improvement obligation of the Applicant. Also in relation to trail obligations, the Applicant has proposed to construct the remaining segment between the existing terminus of the Nowthen Boulevard Trail (terminating on the Lord of Life Campus) and the proposed Lot 1. Depending on the outcome of the Minor Subdivision process, these improvements outside of the proposed Lot 1 may be considered off site and eligible for credit against Trail Development Fees as required by the Minor Plat. The Trail Development is a mechanism the City has implemented to ensure connectivity of its trail system by ensuring a funding stream for necessary off site improvements to connect various segments. All trails on private property must be encumbered by a perpetual trail easement plus an additional five (5) feet for maintenance purposes where feasible. Finally, in relation to trail obligations, the City's policy is that trails shall be constructed, at the cost of the developer, on both sides of all State, County, State Aid, and Collector roadways. This policy is implemented by the Master Park and Trail Plan. This Plan indicates a trail construction obligation along Saint Francis Boulevard (TH 47) on Lot 2. Staff will be prepared to discuss various options for this trail linkage. The Fire Department has requested additional detail be added to the plans in regards to public safety access to the structure. In addition, minor modifications to the location of certain hydrants has been requested. The request has been sent to Mn/DOT and Anoka County Highway as required. Mn/DOT has responded that a drainage permit shall be required as outlined in their response letter. Staff is awaiting a response from the Anoka County Highway Department. Funding Source: All costs associated with reviewing the request are the responsibility of the Applicant. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the Sketch Plan and Site Plan. Committee Action: The Sketch Plan provides the Planning Commission an opportunity to review the concept of a plat/subdivision request on provide feedback on the request. No formal action is necessary. Motion to recommend that the City Council approve the Site Plan for Stoney River.