Agenda - Council Work Session - 04/20/2004

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msey Town Center LLC Propo Overview Based on continuing discussion with City Staff, we have added this attachment to the previous Parks, T~ails and Open' Space proposal. We believe, as does the City, that the Civic Square and Downtown Commons are essential components of the commercial, restaurant and entertainment area in the heart of the Town Center. There is no question that creating an active, inviting and memorable public space at this important location is key to the success of this district. As part of the overall parks planning effort (still in progress), we've worked with City Staff, the Parks and Recreation Commission and other stakeholders to present preliminary ideas and images that begin to define the character, desired uses and potential amenities for both the Civic Square and the Downtown Commons. Initial review and comment we've received so far suggest a great deal of support for these concepts. The primary issue is not about 'what or where' (illustrated in the concept plans), but instead the focus is on 'how and when' (strategies for implementation). To move this discussion forward, we are suggesting the fo[lowing approach. What We Will Provide We will distribute copies of the preliminary concept plans along with a general evaluation of potential construction costs for the Civic Square and the Downtown Commons. These concept plans show the basic ideas and elements that would support the mix of uses illustrated in the Town Center Master Plan. Much of what surrounds the Civic Square and the Downtown Commons (uses, entrances, sitting areas, walkways and so on) will determine the final design, use areas, special features and other amenities. As we continue to refine the mix of uses, building types and specific building design that front on these public spaces, we will also define a specific parks program (potential uses and user groups, etc.) from which we will prepare detailed drawings for park improvements. We're just not quite there yet. Commitments and Assurances Ramsey Town Center, LLC, is committed to working with .City Staff to define a comprehensive program for use of the Civic Square and Downtown Commons that meets the needs of Town Center businesses~ residents, visitors and the' City. The design of these key public spaces will move forward in conjunction with the design and development of the surrounding buildings. We recognize their importance to the financial success of the entire central core district and the image of the City center. Issues of maintenance, security and quality control during programming, design and construction will be discussed with the City as part of the process. We anticipate that these discussions w.ill occur over the next several months, concurrent with our refinement of the plan and our finalizing of agreements with businesses that will locate there. Construction will take place as parr of the build-out of the central core. Construction budgets for the two spaces are still very preliminary; however, the Ramsey Town Center LLC is committed to develop both parks with tasteful design and quality materials, underscoring their importance as signature spaces in the core. As a gesture of good will and long term commitment to the Town Center, the LLC will establish a 'Capital Reserve Account' (controlled by the LLC) that will accumulate funds specifically for Civic Square and Downtown Commons improvements. The LLC will allocate $ 1,500 per house or lot sold (i.e. $1,500 per building permit issued), to be available at such time that the Core District of the Master Plan begins development. Next Steps The LLC Team will continue to meet with the City Staff to discuss overall schedule, programming, design and construction issues related to the Civic Square and Downtown Commons. Information about current status of potential tenants in the Core District, along with City and LLC concerns about the role of these spaces, will be shared. Responsibilities andthe ongoing review process will be tailored to meet schedules of Parks and Recreation, the Planning Commission and City Council. The ultimate ownership structure and maintenance of these spaces is still under discussion, but it is safe to assume that both the LLC and the City share a common goal to have them be well-maintained, exemplary spaces that attract businesses and consumers to the Town Center, while meeting the needs of the general public. 4 Parks, Trails, Open Space Ramsay Tmon Center LLC