Agenda - Council - 12/09/2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commission and City Council have the opportunity to consider deviations from the strict zoning standards. Associate Planner Wald explained the development is proposing 20-foot wide private streets or 'alleyways' throughout the project area. The alleyways will be located along the rear side of the structure and will provide owner access to the garage entrance of the unit. She indicated the building entrances will front onto a 28 foot wide private street. The 28-foot private street will be utilized for visitor parking and front entrance to the unit. She stated City Code requires at least one main thoroughfare through the development to be dedicated as a public street. Staff is recommending that the sketch plan be revised to include a combination of public and private streets, with another access to Riverdale. Associate Planner Wald advised that in several cases, the private streets exceed private street length restrictions outlined in the R-3 district, noting again that Staff is proposing some public streets be incorporated in the plans. She noted that as part of the mixed use zoning, a portion of the parcel is being maintained for commercial use, and Staff is recommending access into the commercial area to integrate it more with the residential portion. She indicated the developer is also proposing a pool area within the development. She commented more details would be presented at preliminary plat. Associate Planner Wald stated the development departs from the normal City standards for street width, length and unit setbacks. The proximity of units, use of sidewalks and alleyways, and architectural treatments gives the development an elegant and quaint feel. She stated the development proposal contains elements of new urbanist philosophy that emphasize pedestrian scale and sense of community. She indicated that given the desirable elements of the proposed development, Staff finds the sketch plan generally acceptable subject to further discussions regarding street design, and Planning Commission and City Council comment. Dave Schulte, Turtle Moon Inc. introduced himself and Brian Sullivan of Ryland Homes. Mr. Sullivan indicated they are excited about coming into Ramsey with this project. He advised they have a carriage townhouse style they have used in four or five communities that emphasizes the best parts to the front, and pushes the service aspects such as the garages to the back. He stated they use more of a public road with sidewalk on the front, and a motor court on the back, placing more of the architectural emphasis on the front. He stated they do a lot with architectural details, so the Commission will see a lot of brick, bay and gable windows, and a lot of variety. He stated they feel it is a nice way to present a positive street presence. He indicated they are also trying to create a community center that will have a pool and recreation area to provide a gathering spot for the residents. He stated they will work with Staff on providing public access as recommended. Vice Chairperson Johnson asked if the applicants had any other concerns with the review letter. He stated Staff mentioned several concerns that they will work with the applicants on, but he wondered if there was anything else the applicant picked up from the Staff Review Letter that may be a problem. Planning Commission/November 6, 2003 Page 14 of 17