Agenda - Planning Commission - 06/22/2023

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For a retail use of this size, 83 parking spaces are required. On the site plan, 100 spaces are shown. The excess is due to "squaring off' the parking lot around the future development site. Based on the applicant's other locations, parking should be sufficient. Pedestrian Connections The site is currently fronted by sidewalks on the north and east side. Connections are proposed to the building in three locations. Two are along the north side of the building. One of these northern connections has some steps down from the public sidewalk due to grade change while the other one will meed ADA slope requirements. These two walkways are likely the main connections to the building, especially after the extension of Ramsey Parkway is constructed to the east. A third connection is located along the southern side of the building. This walkway crosses the loading dock. Special attention was made to try to make this connection as pleasant and safe as possible by continuing the concrete surface in the area for a visual cue of a walkway. Near the customer entrance is a small plaza area that includes a bicycle rack. Landscaping and Screening The applicant provided a landscape plan that has several trees and shrubs located across the site. The EPB reviewed the plan at its meeting on June 12. Along the eastern side of the building, a gas meter and other utility panels are shown. The applicant is proposing to add several large shrubs to help screen these meters. Several HVAC units will be located on the roof These units will be screened by the entry parapet and screening panels complementary to the building's colors. These panels are shown on the architectural plans. Utilities The site is served by municipal services. Signs The building will have wall signage on all four sides as each side is fronting the street or a customer area. At the northwest corner of the site, a 50-foot tall pylon sign is proposed, similar to the sign that was previously approved for a development in this area that did not come to fruition. Plat The site is comprised of three platted lots currently. A plat named COR Four is proposed to reconfigure the three lots into two. This plat is being considered as a final plat that will be considered by the City Council. Standard development fees and park dedication were paid by the previous developer and are not collected again with a replat. There are some easements that are proposed to be vacated and re-established with the new plat. Alternatives to Consider: 1. Recommend approval of the proposal as recommended by staff 2. Recommend approval of the proposal with modifications that the Planning Commission sees appropriate. 3. Recommend denial of the proposal based on certain findings. Funding Source: All costs associated with this proposal are the responsibility of the applicant. Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the Site Plan Review. Action: Motion to recommend the City Council adopt Resolution #23-138 for a Site Plan Review of a Retail Building at 7992 Sunwood Drive NW.