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! I ! I I I I I I I I i I I I I I I I Case CONSIDER ORDINANCE TO REDUCE ARTERIAL THOROUGHFARE SETBACKS By: Steven J. Jankowski, City Engineer Background: The Planning and Zoning Commission has suggested revising the setback distance for structures from the center line of arterial streets from 110 feet to 83 feet. While this change would not have any impact for structures with backyards abutting a standard 120 foot arterial street right-of-way, it will reduce the buffer distances on arterial road that are short of the desired 120 right-of-way, or which have side yard setback requirements. With the exception of County Road #5 and Sunfish Lake Drive N.W. all of the City's arterial street are deficient from the desired 120 foot right-of-way width at various points. The current setback policy has been advocated by the County since the early 1980, and Deputy County Engineer John Olson has indicated that all communities within the County are adhering to this policy. Mr. Olson further indicated that the County was in the process of preparing a policy which will require that City's not in compliance with County recommended guidelines would be responsible for acquisition costs on cost-share projects with the County. Attached is a sketch illustrating the potential separation distances between roadway elements and private structures at the existing 110 foot setback and the proposed 83 foot setback line. This sketch is based upon a two lane County highway. Keep in mind that should some of our County Roads need to be upgraded at some point in the future to four lane arterials, with multiple turn bays, the separation distances shown in the sketch could be reduced further by between 12 and 24 feet. Recommendation: The staff recommends that the existing 110 foot setback be retained. Review Checklist: City Administrator City Engineer Zoning Administrator P&Z: 10/5/93