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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/07/1994MAPLEWOOD PLANNING COMMISSION November 7, 1994 7:00 P.M. City Hall Council Chambers 1830 East County Road B 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Minutes: October 17, 1994 4. Approval of Agenda 5. Presentations: Sherry Allenspach and Roger Anitzberger 6. Public Hearings a. 7:00 p.m., Comprehensive Plan Change and Rezoning: Maplewood Townhouses (11th Ave. & Ariel St.) b. 7:45 p.m., Maplewood Retail Addition Land Use Plan Change Zoning Map Change Conditional Use Permit Street Vacations Sale of City Property Preliminary Plat 7. Visitor Presentations 8. Commission Presentations a. October 24 Council Meeting: Commissioner Rossbach b. November 14 Council Meeting: Commissioner Fischer 9. Staff Presentations 10. Adjournment WELCOME TO THIS MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION This outline has been prepared to help you understand the public meeting process. The review of an item usually takes the following form: The chairperson of the meeting will announce the item to be reviewed and ask for the staff report on the subject. Staff presents their report on the matter. The Commission will then ask City staff questions about the proposal. The chairperson will then ask the audience if there is anyone present who wishes to comment on the proposal. This is the time for the public to make comments or ask questions about the proposal. Please step up to the podium, speak dearly, first giving your name and address and then your comments. After everyone in the audience wishing to speak has given his or her comments, the chairperson will close the public discussion portion of the meeting. The Commission will then discuss the proposal. No further public comments are allowed. The Commission will then make its recommendation or decision. All decisions by the Planning Commission are recommendations to the City Council. The City Council makes the final decision. kd/misc\pcagd Revised: 6-18-93 MAPLEWOOD PLANNING COMMISSION October ] 7, ! 994 7 P.M. City Hall Council Chambers 1830 East County Road B II. Call to Order Chairperson Axdahl called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Roll Call Comm~smoner Lestcr Axdahl Comm~smoner Lorraine Fischer Comm~smoner Jack Frost Commlsmoner Kevin Kittridge Commlsmoner Dave Kopesky Commmmoner Mary Martin Commlsmoner Gary Pearson Commissioner Commlsmoner ComlTllSSloner Commlsmoner William Rossbach Todd Sandell Marvin Sigmundik Milo Thompson III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES IV. A. September 19, 1994 Present Present Present Absent Present Present Present Present Present Present Present Commissioner Fischer moved to move approval of the minutes of October 3, 1994, to Item 7.c. on the agenda. Commissioner Pearson seconded Ayes--all The motion passed. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, stated the developer of the proposed Maplewood Retail project would like to be heard under visitor presentations even though this item was not scheduled as a public hearing. Commissioner Fischer moved approval of the agenda with the addition of Maplewood Retail project under Item 6. as submitted. Commissioner Martin seconded Ayes--all Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -2- The motion passed. V. NEW BUSINESS A. Conditional Use Permit Revision: Aladdin's Castle (Mall) Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, presented the staff report. Tom Schutz, district manager for Namco Cybertainment, was present to answer questions. Commissioner Frost moved the Planning Commission recommend: Approval of the resolution which revises the conditional use permit for an amusement business at the Maplewood Mall. The revision allows the business to expand. Approval is based on the findings required by the Code and subject to the following conditions: The construction shall be in the area shown on the store location map that the City stamped September 29, 1994. The Director of Community Development may approve minor changes. The proposed construction must be substantially started within one year of Council approval or the permit shall end. The Council may extend this deadline for one year. o The City Council shall review this permit in one year if the expansion has not been finished. If the expansion is finished within one year, future reviews shall be waived. Commissioner Rossbach seconded Ayes--all The motion passed. B. Conditional Use Permit Revision: 2280 Maplewood Drive (Menards) Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, presented the staff report and answered questions from the Commission. Commissioner Frost questioned Ken Haider, Director of Public Works, about the condition of the frontage road near Menards. Deb Forbes, 1071 East County Road B, gave some background information on the Menards' fence and answered questions from the Commission. Commissioner Rossbach suggested removal of the lower southwest comer of the parking lot and replacing it with sod Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -3- and some evergreens. Kathy Dupree, co-owner of 1071 East County Road B, asked if a fence would be included and commented on the number of trees that would be removed in this area as part of a future sewer project. Commissioner Rossbach moved the Planning Commission recommend approval of the resolution revising the conditional use permit for the Menards outdoor storage yard as follows: 1. Adherence to the site plan, dated March 15, 1988, unless a change is approved by the City's Community Design Review Board. Materials in the storage yard shall be no more than 20% visible from the residential lots to the south. This may limit stacking heights or require a higher fence height. 3. Hours of operation in the storage yard shall be limited to 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. An additiona! ibm' feet of solid screening material shall be added to the existing screening fence behind 1115 and 1101 East County Road B. No material on the storage rack adjacent to the fence can extend above the 14-foot fence. A row of eight-foot-tall evergreen trees shall be planted six feet on center on the rear property at 1101 East County Road B before June 1, 1989. The property owner at 1101 East County Road B shall be responsible for the maintenance of the trees. Menards shall provide a cash escrow or letter of credit for the installation of the trees before the store may open. No storage material can extend above the 14-foot fence. 6. An exterior public address system shall not be allowed. 7. All lighting in the storage yard that is not needed for site security shall be turned offafter business hours. 8. The City Council shall review this permit again in one year. 9. No more than 2½ feet of the 17½-foot rack shall be visible from the rear of the homes that are at street level on County Road B. 10. Menards shall be responsible for the safety of the neighbors in regard to the materials stored over the height of the fence. Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. Menards shall install a six- to eight-foot high privacy fence to screen the residential lots west of the existing ten-foot fence from vehicle headlights. Plowed snow shall be stored away from the southern and eastern property lines to avoid nmoff problems on residential property. The fence along the east property line shall be extended approximately 110 feet to the north, to the point where the property jogs to the east. No storage shall occur outside the fenced area. All applicable conditions shall be complied with by May 1, 1989. The 10-foot high fence along the west side of the storage area shall be raised to 14 feet. 17. Sanitation facilities be provided by Menards for the workmen. 18. Menards shall: a. Remove the asphalt from the area south of the extension of the southern east/west nmning fence and have sod planted within this area. b. Remove the existing curb cuts to the frontage road which service that section of parking lot and landscape this area. c. Plant a sufficient number of evergreen-type trees in this area to provide a year-round screen for the residents at 1071 East County Road B. do Install a vehicle-barrier in the northern location which is just south of the existing entrance to Menards storage yard. The design and location of the barrier and the landscaping shall be subject to the City Engineer's approval. Menards shall install these barriers by December 26, 1994. eo The Community Design Review Board shall review and give recommendation on any planting or landscaping work that will be done in this area. This landscaping work shall be completed by June 1, 1995, subject to City Engineer's approval. Commissioner Pearson seconded Ayes--all Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -5- The motion passed. Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, noted that this would be on the City Council Agenda on November 14, 1994. C. Preliminary Plat: Highwood 4th Addition Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, presented the staff report and answered questions from the Commission. Amie Esterbrooks, representing Gonyea Company, stated they had read the staff report, would comply with the recommendations, and then answered questions from the Commission. Commissioner Rossbach stated that he did have a problem with homes near the William's Brothers pipeline. Commissioner Martin moved the Planning Commission recommend approval of the Highwood Fourth Addition preliminary plat (received by the City of September 26, 1994). Before the City Council approves a trmal plat, a developer shall complete the following conditions: Sign an agreement with the City that guarantees that the developer or contractor will: a. Complete all grading for the site drainage and the pond, complete all public improvements, and meet all City requirements. b.* Place temporary orange safety fencing and signs at the grading limits. c. Pay the City for the cost of traffic-control and street identification signs. d.* Provide all easements required by the City Engineer. Install permanent signs around the edge of the wetland buffer easements. These signs shall mark the edge of the easements and shall state there shall be non mowing, vegetation cutting, filling, or dumping. f. Install survey monuments along the wetland boundary. g. Remove any debris, junk or fill from the wetlands and site. Have the City Engineer approve final construction and engineering plans. These plans shall include: grading, utility, drainage, erosion control, and tree plans. The plans shall meet the following conditions: Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -6- a. The erosion control plan shall be consistent with the Ramsey Soil and Water Conservation District Erosion and Sediment Control handbook. b. The grading plan shall: (1) Include proposed building pad elevation and contour information for each home site. (2) Include contour information for the land that the construction will disturb. (3) Include berming and an oil containment system near the pipelines. Grading shall be done to cause any oil leaking from the pipeline to flow to the oil containment system. c. The tree plan shall show the following: (1) Where the developer will remove, save, or replace large trees. (2) The size, species, and location of trees that the developer will plant as replacement trees. There shall be no tree removal east of the pipeline. Record covenants or deed restrictions with the final plat that do the following: (a) Require the contractors to build the houses at the minimum front yard setback from Sterling Street. (b) State the pipeline's location. Show the wetland boundaries on the final plat as approved by the Watershed District. Move the drainage easement east so that all the lots have at least 10,000 square feet outside the drainage easement. Give the City wetland easements over the wetlands. The easements shall cover the wetlands and any land within twenty feet surrounding a wetland. These easements shall prohibit any building, mowing, cutting, filling, or dumping within twenty feet of the wetland or within the wetland itself. The purpose of Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -7- this easement is to protect the water quality of the wetlands from homeowners' fertilizer and to protect the wetland habitat from residential encroachment. The City must have signed construction contracts for Sterling Street before the City approved the final plat. If the developer decides to final plat part of the preliminary plat, the City may waive any conditions that do not apply to the final plat. *The developer must complete these conditions before the City issues a grading permit or approves the final plat. Commissioner Frost seconded Ayes--Axdahl, Fischer, Frost, Kopesky, Martin, Sandell, Pearson, Sigmundik, Thompson Nays--Rossbach The motion passed. Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, noted that this item will be on the City Council agenda on November 14, 1994. VI. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS Marc Krueger, an attorney representing the group interested in developing the Maplewood Retail addition, stated that they had brought along a group of planners and architects to make a presentation. This project would be located at the northeast comer of Highway 36 and White Bear Avenue. Alan Kretman, a landscape architect working for RLK Associates, explained what they would be requesting from the City. RLK Associates is the planning firm that put the site plan together. John Dietrich, also of RLK Associates, gave additional details of the site development. Ron Krank, KKE Architects, described some of the architectural details and materials involved and then answered questions from the Commission. Commissioner Axdahl stated that this item is scheduled for a public hearing on November 7, 1994. Vii. COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS Commissioner Axdahl reported on the October 10 City Council meeting. Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -8- Ao Representative for the October 24 Council Meeting: Commissioner Rossbach said he would attend this meeting. Bo Representative for the November 14 Council Meeting: There was a conflict as to which commissioner is scheduled to attend this meeting. Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, will check the schedule and clarify it for the next meeting. C. Approval of Minutes: October 3, 1994 Commissioner Fischer moved approval of the minutes of October 3, 1994, as submitted. Commissioner Frost seconded Ayes--Axdahl, Fischer, Frost, Kopesky, Pearson, Rossbach, Sandell, Sigmundik, Abstentions--Martin, Thompson The motion passed. Commissioner Fischer moved the Planning Commission reconsider the Mapleleaf Estates preliminary plat. Commissioner Kopesky seconded Ayes--all The motion passed. Commissioner Rossbach moved the Planning Commission recommend the following clarification of their approval of the Mapleleaf Estates preliminary plat. Item E. of the motion, on page 5 of the minutes, shall be clarified as follows: Item E. shall read: "Approve the following parts of the Mapleleaf Estates preliminary plat (received by the City on July 26, 1994): Block 1; Block 2, Lots 1-17; Block 3; Block 4, Lots 1-3, and Block 5, Lots 2-8, hereafter referred to as Phase I." Item E., 1., a., page 5, shall read: "Complete all grading for drainage, complete all public improvements and meet all city requirements for Phase I." Item E., 1., g. on page 6 shall be deleted in its entirety. Item E., 2., page 6, shall read: "The developer shall complete all grading for public improvements and overall site drainage for Phase I. Item E., 4., e., on page 7 of the minutes, shall be deleted in its entirety. Commissioner Fischer seconded Ayes--Axdahl, Fischer, Frost, Kopesky, Pearson, Rossbach, Sandell, Sigmundik Planning Commission Minutes of 10-17-94 -9- IX. XI. Abstentions--Martin, Thompson (not present for voting at previous meeting) The motion passed. STAFF PRESENTATIONS Ken Roberts, Associate Planner, discussed the City Council agenda of Monday, October 24, 1994. ADdOURNMENT Meeting adjourned at 9:28 p.m. MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: PROJECT: LOCATION: APPLICANT: DATE: City Manager Thomas Ekstrand, Associate Planner Comprehensive Plan Change and Rezoning Maplewood Townhouses Northwest Comer of 1 lth Avenue and Ariel Street Shelter Corporation November 1, 1994 CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ................................................................... 2 Project Description ........................................................ 2 Requests ................................................................ 2 BACKGROUND ..................................................................... 2 DISCUSSION ....................................................................... 3 Comprehensive Plan Change and Rezoning ...................................... 3 Density ................................................................. 3 Traffic ................................................................. 3 Noise ................................................................... 4 Opposition to Rental Dwellings ............................................... 4 Crime Increase ............................................................ 5 RECOMMENDATION ................................................................ 5 CITIZENS' COMMENTS .............................................................. 6 REFERENCE INFORMATION ......................................................... 8 SITE DESCRIPTION ...................................................... 8 SURROUNDING LAND USES .............................................. 8 PLANNING ............................................................. 8 PUBLIC SAFETY ......................................................... 9 INTRODUCTION Project Description The Sheker Corporation is proposing to build 31 rental town houses at the northwest comer of Eleventh Avenue and Ariel Street. (See the maps on pages 10 and 13 and the site plan on page 15.) There would be 16 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom units. (See the "Project Description" in the narrative on page 18.) Requests The Shelter Corporation is requesting the following: A change in the City's land use plan from LBC (limited Business Commercial) to R-3H (high-density multiple dwellings) along the 1 lth Avenue frontage. The City is already planning the north part of the site for R-3H. (See the existing and proposed maps on pages 11 and 12 and the written statement on page 18.) 2. A rezoning from F (farm residential) to R-3 (multiple dwellings). (See the existing and proposed maps on pages 13 and 14 and the written statement on pages 19-21 .) The developer will apply for the site and building design approval if the City approves the land use plan and zoning changes. BACKGROUND On January 7, 1991, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the land use plan and zoning on this property. This heating was pan of a City-wide zoning and land use study. The Commission recommended that the City Council change the LBC designation on 1 lth Avenue to R-3(H). The Commission gave the following reasons: An R-3M or R-3H classification will generally produce less traffic than an office use, especially since the Council reduced the'maximum densities allowed for multiple dwellings. This is important because of the growing traffic congestion at the intersection of 1 lth and White Bear Avenues. Multiple dwellings may help the City meet regional housing goals. The City could particularly use modest-cost housing, such as town houses, small apartment buildings and double dwellings. 3. Multiple dwellings are a practical use for Hillcrest Development (the property owner). Multiple dwellings were recently built on the south side of 1 lth Avenue in North St. Paul. 4. The change would be consistent with the goals and policies in the Comprehensive Plan. 5. The R-3(I-I) classification would allow the property to develop as one project. This would allow the City more flexibility in requiting designs that protect the homes on Ariel Street. On January 28, 1991, the City Council tabled the land use plan change until the City finished updating the comprehensive plan. DISCUSSION Comprehensive Plan Change and Rezoning Thc City does not require specific findings to change the land usc plan. A land use plan change, however, should be consistent with the goals and policies in the Comprehensive Plan. (See the housing policies on pages 8-9.) The proposed development is consistent with these. The four findings for approval of a rezoning are in the resolution on page 44. The proposed rezoning meets these findings. Residents suggested that this property be used for open space, a small golf course, a park, single dwellings or owner-occupied town houses. The City's Open Space Committee ranked this site 53 out of 67 sites. The City is not planning to buy this site for open space or park. The City Attorney had advised me that the City cannot deny a zoning change because the units are rental versus owner-occupied The only other option is to change the land use plan to single dwellings. However, the City has been planning the north part of this site for high density multiple dwellings since the City adopted its original land use plan in 1972. A multiple-dwelling development on the south part of the site would be a logical extension of this classification. Density Several neighbors thought that the density would be too high. The land use plan and zoning allow the developer to build town houses or apartments. Because the developer is proposing town houses, there would be fewer units per acre than if the developer proposed apartments. For this three-acre site, the R-3H classification allows a maximum density of 9.5 to 14.3 units per acre, depending on the type of unit. Apartment units generally produce fewer people per unit than town house units, so the City allows more apartment units per acre than town house units per acre. As an example, a developer could build 43 apartment units on this site or 31 town house units. Because there are fewer town house units per acre, town houses create less building mass and density than apartments. Traffic Traffic on Ariel Street is an important concern of the neighbors. Eleventh Avenue has more than enough capacity to handle the traffic from this development. The City planned 1 lth Avenue as a 3 major collector street. The City Engineer told me that 1 lth Avenue is designed to carry about 15,000 vehicle trips each day. The 1993 traffic counts show that 1 lth Avenue is carrying 8,300 vehicles each day. The proposed town houses would increase the traffic on 1 lth Avenue by 254 trips or a total of 8,554 vehicle trips per day. This is an insignificant increase. Eleventh Avenue could carry almost twice the traffic it now carries. The developer had a traffic study for this project. The study included the traffic from the town houses and the proposed retail development to the south. The study made the following findings: - Traffic impacts from the town houses would not be significant. There would be acceptable service levels at the intersection of Ariel Street and 1 lth Avenue. The existing stop sign would be adequate to control traffic. The intersection would not need traffic lights. All driveways should be on Ariel Street. Minimizing the driveways on 1 lth Avenue would result in safer driving conditions, a higher level of service on 1 lth Avenue and would ensure that 1 lth Avenue operates efficiently as a collector street. (See the traffic study starting on page 22.) The land use plan change would reduce the potential traffic from this site. The traffic engineer told me that the present LBC (limited business commercial) land use classification would generate significantly more traffic than town houses. Noise Several neighbors said that the area was already too noisy. One party stated that it was especially bad around the holidays. The traffic from this development would not significantly change the noise levels on 1 lth Avenue. This development would only increase the traffic from about 8,300 vehicles a day to 8,554 or a 3% increase. In 1991, the staffdid sound tests on the north side of 1 lth Avenue at the thirty-foot setback. The sound tests just met the State's regulations. As the north and south sides of 1 lth Avenue develop, traffic and sound levels may increase and exceed State standards. The developer may have to provide more setback or sound screening for the town houses from 1 lth Avenue. Particularly if the proposed retail center to the south develops. The City should consider this when the developer applies for plan approval. Opposition to Rental Dwellings The owners of five surrounding properties were opposed to rental dwellings. These owners thought there were enough rental units in the area. The City Attorney has advised me that the City cannot deny a land use change because there may be too many of a type of business or because the dwellings are for rent versus owner-occupied. The City must leave those decisions to the free market system. The developer has had a market study done. The study shows that there is a shortage of two and three bedroom rental units for families. Some neighbors said that this proposal would lower the market value of their homes. The County Assessor's Office told me that there is no indication that this town house development would decrease market values. The developer believes that their project will increase property values in the neighborhood. They state that they would hire an appraiser to verify this if the City requests it. (See page 20) Crime Increase Some neighbors were concerned that the proposed town homes would bring an increase of crime into the area. The City's Director of Public Safety, Ken Collins, told me that with more people, the potential for crime increases. He said that this was true with single dwellings as well. Chief Collins said that rental units did not mean that there would likely be more crime than owner- occupied units. RECOMMENDATION Adopt the resolution on page 43. This resolution changes the land use plan on the north side of Ariel Street, west of 1 lth Avenue. The change is from LBC (limited business commercial) to R-3H (high-density multiple dwellings). This change is based on the following reasons: a. It would be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan's goals and policies. b. It would be consistent with the property planned for R-3H to the north. The present LBC (limited business commercial) land use classification would generate significantly more traffic than town houses. Adopt the resolution on page 44. This resolution changes the zoning on the northwest comer of Ariel Street and 1 lth Avenue from F (farm residential) to R-3 (multiple dwellings). This change is based on the findings required by Code. 5 CITIZENS' COMMENTS I surveyed owners of the 30 surrounding properties within 350 feet of this site. Of the 17 replies, four were in favor and 13 objected. In Favor I am in favor of this change to the multiple dwelling town house plan. (Kelt, 2444 White Bear Avenue) It could be nice to have some new neighbors. (Jones, 2453 Crestwood Drive, North St. Paul) Opposed If these are to be owner occupied units I question the market for same, given the length of time it takes to sell units in Crestwood. I AM NOT in favor of any more rental property in this immediate area. (Hildebrandt, 2443 Crestwood Drive, North St. Paul) The area has enough rental units as is. That comer area is not large enough for that type of project. Make it a small park or leave it alone. We will all fight this proposal! (Ebensperger, 2510 Ariel Street, North St. Paul) 3. I object because of the added traffic and the age of the added people with a retirement housing on the other side of the street. (Roubik, 2040 13th Avenue, North St. Paul) 4. There should be single family homes or a par-three golf course here instead. 0Vlalsom, 2466 Ariel Street, North St. Paul) I object because of overcrowding, noise and traffic congestion in such a small area. Develop with self-owned houses or self-owned one-level town houses. (Kamrath, 2499 Ariel Street, North St. Paul) The density of the living units are about three times too much. You probable should develop German Street to draw off some traffic from Ariel. Your zoning map is ridiculous. No one has lots the size you show in Maplewood here anyway. (Landsom, 2035 Flanders Road, North St. Paul) There are about three times as many units as the size of the site should allow. The number of the units should be reduced 50%. German Street should be developed as an additional exit. Your maps are obsolete. (Anderson, 2047 Flanders Road, North St. Paul) Too many people on a small and too busy comer. The maps are old. (Femow, 2500 White Bear Avenue, Maplewood) 9. See the letters on pages 36 to 42 from the following persons: Jeanne McPhee and Germain Smith, 2492 Ariel Street, North St. Paul Gary J. Beuthling, 2480 Ariel Street, North St. Paul Louis J. and Patricia Kamrath, 2499 Ariel Street, Maplewood Dorothy J. Lillmars, 2038 Flanders Road, North St. Paul SITE DESCRIPTION Site size: 3 acres Existing land use: REFERENCE INFORMATION Undeveloped SURROUNDING LAND USES North: A house and County open space South: 1 lth Avenue and undeveloped land planned for LBC (limited business commercial) and R-l(single dwellings). The City is considering a rezoning of this land to BC (business commercial) and R-3 (multiple dwellings). West: Undeveloped property planned for LBC and R-3H East: Houses PLANNING Comprehensive Plan Policies The land use plan has eleven general land use goals. Of these, three apply to this proposal. They are: minimize land planned for streets, minimize conflicts between land uses and provide many housing types. The land use plan also has several general development and residential development policies that relate to this project. They are: · Transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses should not create a negative economic, social or physical impact on adjoining developments. Include a variety of housing types for all types of residents, regardless of age, ethnic, racial, cultural or socioeconomic background. A diversity of housing types should include apartments, town houses, manufactured homes, single-family housing, public-assisted housing and low- and moderate-income housing, and rental and owner-occupied housing. · Protect neighborhoods from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible land uses by adequate buffering and separation. Promote a variety of housing types, costs and ownership options throughout the City. These are to meet the life-cycle needs of all income levels, those with special needs and nontraditional households. · The City will continue to provide dispersed locations for a diversity of housing styles, types and price ranges through its land use plan. PUBLIC SAFETY The Fire Marshal recommends that the applicant install on-site fire hydrants and stop signs at Ariel Street. p:sec I 1 ~townhom¢.mem Allat;hments: 1. Location Map 2. ~ Land U~e Plan Map 3. Proposed Land Use Plan Map 5. ProperS' Linc/Zoning Map~Proposcd 6. Si~ Plan 7. Front Elevation g. Side and Rear Elevation 9. C~,~:~;~hemive Plan Change Statement 10. Rczoning Stat~n~nt 11. Traffic Study 12. L~tter from J~Rn¢ McPhce and Germain Smilh 13. Letter from Gary Bcuthling 14. L~r fyom Louis J. and Paui¢ia Kamrath 15. Leuer from Dorothy J. Liilmats 16. Land Use Plan Change R~solution 17. Zoning Map Change Resolution LOCATION MAP 10 Attachment 2 I ~ : mlnlo r arterial I, ' ~'~:--.~. c interchange Vadnai$ Heights , major collector /.; ~ IIIIIIIIII, M-1 P principal arterial 694 interchange CO major collector iM-1 ! M-' 1 ,LBC !al High,way; ,36 III cha~nge EXISTING LAND USE PLAN Attachment 3 interchange Vadnai$ Heights or arterial CO major collector · principal arterial 694 interchange major colleclor ;'. ;' mmmmmm I. · mmmmmmmm?,:m ........ .~m BC I ~mJ --~) ',)m~, M-1 P OS :OS Immmmmmam· "i ~ ) M-: 1 ,LBC inter~:hahge jT,..p I I e_c_t o r PROPOSED LAND USE PLAN 12 Attachment 4 I E. DGEHILL AVE. DENTAL CUNIC RAINBOW FOODS FEET PFIOPCOED :: O~ /.t./e II 9' '~240~ 20 18 2486 1TH AVENUE -- PROPERTY LINEEx~2. / ZONING MAP Attachment 5 · ! EDGEHILL II CON NOR B AVE. \ PROPERTY LINE / ZONING MAP Attachment 6 -- OCF~ 13th AVE. FLANDERS RD. 11th AVENUE SITE PLAN 15 N ~ ~,~ At.t. achment. 8 17 ILl 0 Z Public Purpose Statement Comprehensive Plan Amendment Application Dear Maplewood City Council/Staff: Attachment 9 The following is a brief description of Shelter Corporation's proposed Maplewood Townhouse project located on the Northeast comer ofthe intersection of Ariel and 1 lth streets. In addition to the project description, is a brief public purpose statement addressing a number of reasons why this project would meet specific needs of the City of Maplewood. Project description: Maplewood Townhouses is a proposed 33 unit townhouse project consisting of 17 2BR/1 bath and 16 3BR/2 bath units. Site amenities include on-site management office, common laundry facility, children's tot lot and ample on-site parking. Each townhouse has individual front entry. Each unit will have its own attached garage entry. Unit amenities include a spacious 981 sq. ft and 1226 sq. ff floor plan that provide extra storage, individual patio/decks with privacy fences. Each unit will also be equipped with its own gas operated hot water heater and forced air furnace. The kitchens will include a full amenity of stove, hood vent, 16 sq. ff refrigerator, garbage disposal, dish washer and extensive counter space. With the recent completion of the new affordable senior cottages built by Morgin and the senior cottages located in North St. Paul, Shelter has identified a tremendous need for a similar property but targeted to family in the City of Maplewood For further statistics documenting the demand for affordable family housing, please refer to the attached market survey completed in February of this year by Shenehon Company. Along with this identified demand, the current legislation lead by legislator Orfield has been pushing for more first, second and third tier suburbs to provide affordable quality clean housing for individuals of moderate incomes. This is an opportunity for the City of Maplewood to be proactive and increase this type of affordable housing in their community. The site location, Northeast comer of Ariel and 1 lth streets is a perfect politically correct location with the designated Ramsey county open space to the north and already up and exiting commercial facilities to the west. Also, the city, in the early stages of development, will have ample opportunity to dictate what exactly will be built on this site along with the physical attractiveness of the project. Another advantage of Shelter's purposed project is that it would actually be a down zoning of the current comprehensive zoning plan, which would help address neighbor's concerns with regards to traffic issues. Shelter Corporation, unable to detail all of the benefits of its proposed townhouse project within this short summary, would like to request an informal meeting with any city staff/council members, in order to provide a better understanding of what Shelter is proposing. 18 Attachment 10 PUBLIC PURPOSE STATEMENT REZONING APP~~'I~NF- Dear Mapl~wood, project descrimion UI.~I~ '"~k,.':7~ "'~u Li 1._~1~,~ Maplewood Townhouses is a proposed 33 unit townhouse project consisting of 17 2BR/1 bath and 16 3BR/2 bath units. Site amenities include on-site management office, common laundry facility, children's tot lot and ample on-site parking. Each townhouse has individual front entry. Each unit will have its own attached garage entry. Unit amenities include or 1226 sq. f. floor plan that provides extra storage, individual patio/decks with privacy fences. Each unit will also be equipped with its own gas operated hot water heater and forced air furnace. The kitchens will include a full amenity package of stove, hood vent, 16 sq. ff. refrigerator, garbage disposal, dish washer and ex~ensive counter space. public Purpose: The public welfare of the community will benefit from the development of the proposed projec~ in a number of ways. 1. Reducing traffic congestion. By granting the requested down zone for the proposed project from its current comprehensive plan of light industrial to high-density residential the City would eliminate the possibility of development of a strip mall or gas station type facility from being built in place ofMaplewood Townhomes. Traffic congestion would be far less with a townhouse project than with a gas station facility due to the reduced average trips of residents cars from those of customers cars. Increased traffic relating to the townhomes would occur at acceptable hours rather than early morning and late evening hours the neighborhood would experience from a gas station or convenience store. 2. Improving safety from fire and other dangers. The current site is undeveloped land that contains an enormous amount of prairie grass and brush especially the Ramsey County designated open space that lies adjacent to the site along its northern boundary. By developing this site into a townhouse rental community, the developer would be eliminating an unsupervised fire hazard, especially when considering that the project will be equipped with individual fire extinguishers and meet or exceed aH local and state fire codes. Other dangers that would be resolved by the development would be the elimination of wooded open space in which disruptive juvenile activity can take place. By the development of the proposed project, the site would be supervised by an employee of Shelter Corporation. 19 Providing adequate light and open space. Pursuant to the local city of Maplewood and State of Minnesota building codes the proposed project will have ample on-site light provided by 25 foot high light poles using shoebox style high pressure sodium lamp and is controlled by photocell. The fixtures are to be provided with cutofflens to control light and site perimeter. It has been Shelter's experience most recently, with regards to its newest development, Andrew's Pointe Townhouses, that this system provides ample lighting and in some cases has reduced the overall crime rate in and around its specific neighborhood. The open space will be more than adequate by following in building and site design. The addition of a on-site tot lot which will provide tenants with a specific recreational facility. In addition, Ramsey County has designated an open space adjacent to the sites northern boundary. This open space designation restricts development in and around this area and will provide an enormous amount of open space for this local community. Avoiding overcrowding. In general, by granting the zoning request, the city would be down grading the zoning designation in its comprehensive zoning plan. The would greatly attribute to any overcrowding that may occur with a strip mall or convenience store facility. In addition the unit design, with its excess storage capacity and additional storage in the attached garages, will address any tenant storage needs. The additional open space designation as referenced in question 3 above will further contribute to any overcrowding issues or concerns that the city may have. Conserving property values. This issue has typically arisen with regards to neighbors cone, ems whenever a new development is contemplated. As the land is designated for development rather than open space, the neighbors concerns must ultimately be addressed. The current development cost on a per unit basis for the proposed development is approximately $67,000/unit. Due to the proposed aesthetics of the development, Shelter strongly believes that this development would greatly appreciate the property values in the surrounding community. If Shelter proceeds to move X~ forward through the rezoning process, Shelter would, upon request by the City, commission an appraiser to verify the above referenced statement. 2O The proposed zoning change will not injure or detract from the neighboring property due to the fact that the proposed request would actually be a down zoning from what has been established in the current comprehensive zoning plan. As stated above, the request would actually be less dense than what was intended for its initial use. The townhouse style development with its attached garages and individual entries would give the property a neighbor feel that's consistent with the current surrounding facilities. The site currently has ample capacity for all utility and SAC/WAC that will be needed for the proposed development. For additional services that will be provided with relatively close proximity to the proposed development, please reference the following: Amenity Name Address Distance fi'om proposed Grocery Store Drug Store Church Hospital Health Clinic Bank Post Office Clothing Store Library Day Care Center Elementary School Secondary School Rainbow Foods Walgreens Mplwd Covenant St. Johns Mplwd Surgery Norwest North St. Paul Fashion Bug Ramsey Cty Public New Horizon Beaver Lake Elem. Hill Murry High White Bear Ave White Bear Ave White Bear Ave 1575 Beam Ave 1655 Beam Ave 2945 White Bear 2523 7th Ave E White Bear Ave 1460 Skillman Ave 2251 VanDyke St. 1010 Sterling St. N 2625 Larpenteur Ave 2/10 miles 2/10 miles 3/10 miles 3/10 miles 3/10 miles 4/10 miles 2/10 miles 2/10 miles 1.5 miles 7/10 miles 1.5 miles 2 miles NOTE: Shelter has attempted to address all of these concerns in a short statement as requested by this application. However, Shelter believes that addressing all of these issues is imperative to a successful development. Shelter is organizing an informal meeting with the local neighborhood and would welcome any participation from the City staff or council. Attachment ll MAPLEWOOD TOWNHOUSE PROJECT SITE TRAFFIC IMPACT REPORT Prepared for Shelter Corporation 900 Second Avenue South Suite 880 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402 Prepared by Biko Associates, Inc. 2501 Dupom Avenue North Minneapolis, Minnesota 55411 October 1994 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ................................................... 1 Zoning and Adjacent Land Use ................... ~ .................... 1 Previous Traff~c Study ............................................. 1 TRAFFIC IMPACT ANALYSIS ......................................... 3 Existing Background Traffic and 1996 Background Traffic Forecasts ............... 3 Trip Generation 5 Trip Distribution ...................................... , .......... 5 PM Peak Hour and Daily Traffic Assignments .............................. 5 Intersection Capacity Analysis and Traffic Operations Analysis .................. 10 CONCLUSIONS ................................................... 12 LIST OF FIGURES 1. Site Plan ..................................................... 2 2. 1994 and 1996 No Development Two-Way Daily Traffic Forecasts ............... 4 3. 1994 and 1996 No Development PM Peak Hour Turning Movements ............. 7 4. 1995 Forecast PM Peak Hour Turning MOvements for Build MTP and Build MTP and Proposed Retail Development ..................................... 8 5. 1996 Build MTP and Build MTP and the Retail Development Two-Way Daily Traffic Volumes ............................................ 9 LIST OF TABLES 1. Trip Generation for Proposed Townhouse Development ...................... 5 2. Intersection Capacity Analysis Results ................................ 10 INTRODUCTION This report documents analyses conducted to identify the extent of traffic impacts that would occur with implementation of a proposed residential development in the City of Maplewood, Minnesota. The development (the Maplewood Townhouse Project) is proposed by the Shelter Corporation to include 31 townhouses on approximately 3 acres of land. The development site is located in the northwest quadrant of the intersection formed by 1 lth Avenue and Ariel Street. The site plan for the development is illustrated on Figure 1. As shown, the site's access drives would be located on Ariel Street. While the development site is located in the City of Maplewood, it is immediately adjacent to the City of North St. Paul. Existing residences that from on Ariel Street are located in North St. Paul, and would be directly east of the proposed development. As part of the study process, city engineers from both Maplewood and North St. Paul were contacted for input in the study. ZONING AND ADJACENT LAND USE The proposed development site is currently zoned Farm/Residential, and allowed uses are agricultural and single family residential. The site is identified in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan for business/light industry and high density residential. As mentioned, the development is proposed to consist of 31 townhouses. Therefore, a rezoning and a Comprehensive Plan amendment are being sought by the developer. The development site is bordered to the north and east by single family residences along Ariel Street. A 215,500 square foot retail center has been proposed for the northeast quadrant of the intersection formed by TH 36/White Bear Avenue. The retail center site is south of the proposed townhouse development site and extends to the southwest quadrant of the 1 lth Avenue/Ariel Street intersection. PREVIOUS TRAFFIC STUDY A traffic impact study for the proposed retail development (Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc.) was submitted to Ramsey County and the City of Maplewood in September, 1994. The traffic study analyzed 1996 traffic impacts, representing conditions forecast to occur one year after the opening of the retail development. The traffic study focused on four intersections along White Bear Avenue, which are under county jurisdiction, and one intersection along 1 lth Avenue immediately east of the 1 lth Avenue/White Bear Avenue intersection. The study showed that traffic generated by the retail development, when added to 1996, forecast background traffic, will generally not affect intersection operations. Existing (1994) intersection levels of service (LOS) without the retail development were found to be above average at LOS B and C. The analysis showed that those same levels of service would occur in 1996 with implementation of the retail development. The analysis also discussed the potential for stacking problems at the intersections of White Bear Avenue and the TH 36 North and South Ramps. Stacking problems occur when the space provided for vehicles queued at a red light is not long enough to meet demand. Further analysis indicated that the stacking problems could be resolved by adjusting the traffic signals along White Bear Avenue. Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page 1 RAMSEY COUNTY OPEN SP/~_.,E Biko [~ Ass, Inc. 13th AVE. 11th AVENUE Associams $11*lter C~rl~ratl~ North Figure 1  Site Plan No Scale 25 TRAFFIC IMPACT ANALYSIS MAPLEWOOD TOWNHOUSE TRAFFIC STUDY APPROACH The study approach followed the standard traffic impact analysis methodology. This methodology includes background traffic forecasting and trip generation, trip distribution, traffic assignment, and intersection capacity and traffic operations analyses. Year 1996 background traffic forecasts were prepared by assuming a 1 percent annual growth rate for traffic currently using streets in the study area. This growth rate was identified by Barton-Aschman Associates in the traffic study for the retail development and is supported by field studies conducted on other projects in the Maplewood area. Trip generation for the townhouse development was calculated based on data provided by the Institute of Transportation Engineers in Trip Generation, Fifth Edition; 1991. Weekday trip distribution was estimated based on the geographic distribution of employment centers in the Twin Cities region. Traffic assignments to the street system were based on the shortest travel time and distance between the residential development and the employment centers. Because of the potential for the combined traffic volumes from the proposed residential and retail developments to negatively impact the system of streets and intersections, this traffic study addressed 1996 conditions with both projects in place. This was accomplished by analyzing the following development scenarios: · 1994 Existing Condition · 1996 No Development · 1996 Build Maplewood Townhouse Project (MTP) · 1996 Build MTP and the Retail Development The traffic study was based on the assumption that the Maplewood Townhouse Project would be developed and in place before the retail development. EXISTING BACKGROUND TRAFFIC AND 1996 BACKGROUND TRAFFIC FORECASTS Figure 2 shows two-way daily traffic volumes in the study area for 1994. These are shown for Ariel Street, 1 lth Avenue, and McKaight Road. The 1994 volumes were forecasted from 1993, unadjusted counts taken by Mn/DOT and the City of North St. Paul. Figure 2 also shows the 1996, two-way daily traffic forecasts for the No Development condition. These were forecasted based on the 1994 volumes and a I percent annual growth rate. Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page 3 26 OOf~T '~S lO.nV OZ9 00/.61 'PIt ~qfl!U)l=lhI O00~T Of 9 27 OOIO~ TRIP GENERATION Table 1 presents average trip generation for the average weekday. As shown, the proposed residential development will generate 254 daily trips. Twenty-one (21) trips will take place during the AM peak hour, and 29 trips will take place during the PM peak hour. TABLE 1 TRIP GENERATION FOR PROPOSED TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT AM Peak Hour Trips PM Peak Hour Trips Land Use Variable Daily Trips In Out Total In Out Total Townhouse 31 Dwelling Units 254 4 17 21 19 10 29 [ ~glneers; Biko Associates, Inc.; October 1994. TRIP DISTRIBUTION Trip distribution for the project is presented below: 7 percent to/from the north on Ariel Street 15 percent to/from the east on 1 lth Avenue 2 percent to/from the south on Ariel Street 75 percent to/from the west on 1 lth Avenue PM PEAK HOUR AND DALLY TRAFFIC ASSIGNMENTS PM peak hour traffic assignments for the four development scenarios described earlier are illustrated on Figures 3 and 4. These traffic assignments, which are presented as turning movements, were made to two intersections, l lth Avenue/Ariel Street and l lth Avenue/McKnight Road. These are the two intersections that the Cities of Maplewood and North St. Paul identified for analysis in this report. The PM peak hour was selected as the time period for analysis because it represents the busiest period of the day for traffic. PM peak hour traffic largely consists of commuters and is defined as the 60 minute period between 4:30 and 6:00 PM when traffic volumes are at their highest. Figure 3 shows intersection turning movements for the existing condition. These turning movements were counted by Biko Associates, Inc. during field studies conducted on Wednesday, October 19 and Thursday, October 20, 1994. Also shown on Figure 3 are PM peak hour turning movement forecasts for the 1996 No Development condition. Under this condition, neither the residential nor the retail development have been implemented in 1996. The 1996 turning movement forecasts were calculated by Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page $ 28 applying the 1 percent annual growth rate to the 1994 turning movements that were observed during the field studies. Figure 4 shows turning movements for the 1996 Build Maplewood Townhouse Project (MTP). These were derived by adding assigned traffic from the proposed residential project to the 1996 No Development, turning movement forecasts. Turning movements are also shown on Figure 4 for the 1996 Build MTP and the Retail Development condition. These turning movements represem full build-out of both the proposed residential and retail developments. Turning movements for the retail development were based on information from the traffic study that was prepared by Barton-Aschman Associates. That study indicated that 20 percent of the daily trips to/from the retail development would use 1 lth Avenue east of the retail site. Figure 5 illustrates 1996 two-way daily traffic volumes forecast to occur under the 1996 Build Maplewood Townhouse Project condition and the 1996 Build MTP and the Retail Development condition. Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page 6 o; · ~$ la.nV 30 31 O00'~T 0~9 OOT'O: 'P~I O09'gI '{$ la.U¥ 059 O08'OZ 32 INTERSECTION CAPACITY AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS ANALYSES Intersection Capacity Current traffic control at the intersection of 1 lth Avenue and Ariel Street is a STOP sign. Traffic on Ariel Street is stopped to allow 1 lth Avenue traffic to pass through the intersection. The intersection of 1 lth Avenue and McKnight Road is controlled by a traffic signal. Exclusive left-turn lanes have been constructed on the north and south legs of the intersection, and the traffic signal currently operates on a maximum 140-second, vehicle-actuated signal cycle. Analysis was conducted in this study to determine how the current traffic controls would work under the various development scenarios. The analysis evaluated intersection level of service (LOS), which is a measure of the average stop delay vehicles experience at either STOP signs or traffic signals. LOS A represents the shortest delay, and LOS F represents extremely long delays and congestion. LOS A, B, C, and D are acceptable, LOS E is tolerable, and LOS F is unacceptable. As shown in Table 2, existing and forecast LOS at the two intersections is no lower than LOS D. The intersection levels of service shown in Table 2 are based on results of the Highway Capacity Manual's computerized intersection capacity analyses for unsignalized and signalized intersections. Computer print outs from the analysis are provided in an Appendix to this report. TABLE 2 INTERSECTION CAPACITY ANALYSIS RESULTS (LEVEL OF SERVICE) 1996 Build 1996 Build Townhouse Project 1996 No Townhouse and Retail INTERSECTION 1994 Existing Development Project Development WB Lefts A WB Lefts A WB Lefts A WB Lefts A EB Lefts A EB Lefts A EB Lefts A EB Lefts A NB Lefts D NB Lefts D NB Lefts D NB Lefts D 1 lth Avenue/Ariel NB Thrus ¢ NB Thrus C NB Thrus C NB Thrus D Street NB Rights A NB Rights A NB Rights A NB Rights A SB Lefts C SB Lefts D SB Lefts D SB Lefts D SB Thrus C SB Thrus C SB Thrus C SB Thrus D SB Rights A SB Rights A SB Rights A SB Rights A 11 th Avenue/MeKnight Road B B B B Source: Biko Associates, Inc.; October 1994. Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page 10 33 Traffic Operations As shown on the site plan, Figure 1, the proposed project's two driveways would be located on Ariel Street. City of Maplewood standards require minimum 20-foot spacing between driveways on local (residential) streets. The centerline to centerline distance between the two driveways on the site plan is shown to be approximately 135 feet apart, and, therefore, within City guidelines. The City has asked that this study analyze the impacts of locating the two driveways on 1 lth Avenue. This alternative driveway location would result in higher levels of service for the northbound and southbound turning movements at the 1 lth Avenue/Ariel Street intersection, than those shown in Table 2. The improvements in level of service would occur because the volume of vehicles at the intersection would be reduced. However, level of service on 1 lth Avenue and safety could possibly be negatively affected by this alternative driveway location. Collector streets like 1 Ith Avenue have higher permitted speeds than residential streets and are designed to carry more traffic than residential streets. Because of these factors collector streets should not have as many driveways as residential streets. If the proposed project's two access drives were to be located on 1 lth Avenue, the most easterly drive should be spaced a minimum of 120 feet (centerline to centerline) west of the 1 lth Avenue/Ariel Street intersection. The most westerly of the two driveways should be spaced a minimum of 120 feet (centerline to centerline) west of the first drive. Additionally, the easterly drive should be designed for inbound movements, with outbound movements taking place at the westerly drive. Thc 120-foot distance may seem excessive compared to the City of Maplewood's 30-foot minimum spacing specification. However, this distance provides adequate spacing so that eastbound vehicles turning left onto Ariel Street would not interfere with those turning left to enter the site. Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page 11 34 CONCLUSIONS Analysis results showed that traffic impacts resulting from the proposed Maplewood Townhouse Project will not be significant. Generating only 254 trips on the average weekday, 21 trips during the AM peak hour, and 29 trips during the PM peak hour, traffic from the site will be an insignificant addition to the background traffic. Based on input from the Cities of Maplewood and North St. Paul, two intersections were analyzed in this study; 1 lth Avenue/Ariel Street and 1 lth Avenue/McKnight Road. The intersection capacity analysis showed that acceptable levels of service (LOS no lower than D) would occur at both of these intersections under each of four development conditions that were analyzed in this report. The four development conditions are listed below: 1994 Existing Condition 1996 No Development 1996 Build Maplewood Townhouse Project (MTP) 1996 Build MTP and the proposed retail development at the intersection of TH 36/White Bear Avenue As shown by the results in Table 2, the STOP sign at the 1 lth Avenue/Ariel Street intersection would continue to efficiently control traffic in 1996 with implementation of the Maplewood Townhouse Project. The analysis also showed that the STOP sign will continue to function efficiemly when traffic from the proposed retail development is added to traffic that would be generated by the townhouse development. The analysis showed that the traffic signal at the intersection of 1 lth Avenue/Mci(night Road will operate at acceptable LOS B in 1996 with the townhouse development in place. Furthermore, LOS B operations would occur at this intersection with the addition of traffic from the proposed retail development. The overall opinion of the analysis is that the Maplewood Townhouse Project driveways should be located on Ariel Street, as shown on the site plan. Minimizing the number of driveways on 1 lth Avenue will result in safer driving conditions, a higher level of service on 1 lth Avenue, and will ensure that 1 lth Avenue operates efficiently as a collector street. The analysis did show, however, that the proposed project's driveways could be located on 1 lth Avenue. If the driveways were to be located on 1 lth Avenue, the following recommendations should be followed' Minimum 120-foot spacing (centerline to centerline) between the easterly driveway and the intersection of 1 lth Avenue/Ariel Street. Minimum 120-foot spacing (centerline to centerline) between the easterly driveway and the westerly driveway. Design the easterly driveway for inbound turns to the Maplewood Townhouse Project. Design the westerly driveway for outbound turns from the Maplewood Townhouse Project. Maplewood Townhouse Project Site Traffic Impact Report Shelter Corporation Biko Associates, Inc. Page 12 35 Attachment 12 Maplewood City Council City Hall Building 1830'East County Road B Maplewood, MN 5510g North St. Paul City Council 2526 East Seventh Avenue North St. Paul, MN 5510g Dear Council Members: As residents at 2492 Ariel, we strongly object to the proposed building of the Shelter Corporation on the northwest corner of Ariel and Eleventh Street. We protest this proposal for the following reasons. 1) The property on the northwest corner of Ariel & Eleventh is NOT zoned for apartment buildings. It is zoned for light industrial/ condos and that is what I believe it should remain zoned for. We do NOT believe the zoning restrictions should be lifted or shifted to accomodate Shelter Corporation. 2) The number of units, {33 two and three bedroom units) and therefore the number of people Shelter is proposing for these apartments is totally unacceptable. a) Ariel Street is NOT able to handle the amount of increased in traffic. As a border road, Ariel is not a polished, well-kept road. As residents who both drives Ariel every day, we had no probler with the current conditions or the current traffic. To increase traffic with possibly 60 more vehicles, however, is outrageous. b} Maplewood and North St. Paul already have the problem of noise polution in this section. Shelter's proposal would increase that problem by 130-150 people. 36 3) There is a significant water drainage problem in this section of Maplewood/North St. Paul. The fact that the acreage on the northwest corner of Ariel and Eleventh is low serves as a reminder that we need areas for water run-off. 4} There is life existing there already. That piece of property is home to much wildlife: deer, fawn, fox, racoon, rabbits, pheasants, geese, wild flowers, blooming shrubs, etc. As residents, we enjoy the life already that exists there. There ARE areas that should not be developed. Those areas should stand as a testament to our need for nature. We do not believe all development is "bad"~ we do believe development should be held accountable for principles higher than increasing revenues or convenience. 5) There is no need for another apartment building. For 12 of the last 14 years, I lived in apartment buildings in the inner city and in the suburbs. There is NOT a shortage of living spaces. For those reasons, we do not believe the northwest corner of Ariel and Eleventh should be rezoned for Shelter Corporation. Please vote to maintain the present restrictions. Si ncerely, Jeanne McPhee and Germaine Smith 2492 Ari el North St. Paul 37 Attachment 13 August 31, 1994 City of Maplewood 1830 E County Road B Maplewood MN 55109 Attn: Re: Thomas Ekstrand Project: Maplewood T.H. (Section: 11) My name is Gary Beuthling, I have owned and lived at 2480 Ariel St.. North for 6 years. I am very concerned that the proposal Shelter Corporation's 33 unit townhouse development project could be disastrous for the surrounding residents and community. Traffic on llth Avenue is already very, very busy. Many cars cut through Ariel St. from the over-abundance of shopping and apartment building$in the area. There have been many accidents to Ariel St. and 11th Avenue, one of which I know of caused a death.The addition of 66 plus cars in and out of Ariel would be a serious mess. Currently, the noise levels from llth Avenue and White Bear Ave. are already intolerable. According to the site plan layout, the townhouse entrance and exit would be directly in front of my house. Headlights would shine through my front windows every night. It is very clear that the addition of multiple dwelling housing across Ariel would reduce the current market value of the surrounding homes considerably and make it more difficult to sell. The existing homes in front of the proposal site have a value of $100,000 - $200,000. I have worked hard for this home. I don't feel I should sacrifice my home's value and the neighborhood's environment for the financial gain of a developer who has no other interest than to profit from the developing the project. There are already far too many low income dwellings within a 6 block radius, including apartment buildings, townhomes and cottage development. My home was featured on Channel 4's Dimension Report. on crime several years ago. Crime in the area is on the rise. I believe more congested housing would attract, more crime. I would be more receptive to middle to upper bracket homes with lots similar in size to the existing ones on North Ariel. This would still allow most of the land intact and not be so congested. I would also be in favor of leaving the land natural or adding wetland and wildlife habitat.. I would be more than happy to pay additional taxes to develop a park or wildlife at'ea. The destruction of the current natural wildlife habitat would be a tragedy. 38 Attachment 14 39 Attachment 15 TO: Mr. Thomas Ekstrand RE: Neighborhood Survey Letter of 8-23-94 I attended the informational meeting put on bY the Shelter Corporation and I object to the proposed use of this property. 1. Rental property of the proposed type would lower our property values 2. Unattractive'structures and too many 3. Traffic routed in and out on Ariel would cause much congestion and backup to get onto llth - it is hard to turn east from the north now 4-way stop would not be enough in the a.m. and p.m. 4. Noise levels in this neighborhood are extremely high now' 5. This area would become overly saturated,'this proposal 6. I OBJECT TO ANY PROJECT THAT WOULD ENTER & EXIT ON ARIEL I would not object to: 1. Owned townhomes, but fewer than the rental proposed project 2. Senior townhomes similar to those east of Ariel on llth, but fewer than the proposed 3. Recreational uses 4. Senior citizens home/Daycare facility I think an overall plan should be developed with the vacant property east of White Bear Avenue and north and south of llth. This would provide for better community balance. Sincerely, Dorothy J. Lillmars cc: City of North St. Paul Engr. Dept. 42 Attachment 16 LAND USE PLAN CHANGE RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Shelter Corporation applied for a change to the City's land use plan from LBC (limited business commercial) to R-3H (high-density multiple dwellings ). WHEREAS, this change applies to the north side of 1 lth Avenue, west of Ariel Street. The legal description is: The East 347 feet of the NE 1/4 of SE 1/4 of NW 1/4 in Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, except the North 278.94 feet, thereof. WHEREAS, the history of this change is as follows: 1. On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission held a public hearing. The City staff published a hearing notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The Planning Commission gave everyone at the hearing a chance to speak and present written statements. The Planning Commission recommended that the City Council the land use plan change. 2. On _~. 1994, the City Council discussed the land use plan change. They considered reports and recommendations from the Planning Commission and City staff NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approve the above-described change for the following reasons: a. It would be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan's goals and policies. b. It would be consistent with the property planned for R-3H to the north. c. The present LBC (limited business commercial) land use classification would generate significantly more traffic than town houses. The Maplewood City Council approve this resolution on ,1994. 43 Attachment 17 ZONING MAP CHANGE RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Shelter Corporation applied for a change in the zoning map from F (farm residential) to R-3 (multiple dwelling residemial). WHEREAS, this change applies to the northwest comer of Ariel Street and Eleventh Avenue. The legal description is: The East 370 feet of the NE 1/4 of SE 1/4 of NW 1/4 in Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, except the North 278.94 feet, thereof. WHEREAS, the history of this change is as follows: 1. On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council approve the change. 2. On ,1994, the City Council held a public heating. The City staff published a notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The Council gave everyone at the hearing an opportunity to speak and present written statemems. The Council also considered reports and recommendations from the City staff and Planning Commission. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approve the above-described change in the zoning map for the following reasons: 1. The proposed change is consistent with the spirit, purpose and intent of the zoning code. 2. The proposed change will not substantially injure or detract from the use of neighboring property or from the character of the neighborhood, and that the use of the property adjacent to the area included in the proposed change or plan is adequately safeguarded. 3. The proposed change will serve the best interests and conveniences of the community, where applicable, and the public welfare. 4. The proposed change would have no negative effect upon the logical, efficient, and economical extension of public services and facilities, such as public water, sewers, police and fire protection and schools. The Maplewood City Council adopted this resolution on ,1994. MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: City Manager Ken Roberts, Associate Planner Maplewood Retail Addition White Bear Avenue, Highway 36, Ariel Street and 1 lth Avenue November 3, 1994 The Planning Commission should review the land use and zoning map changes, conditional use permit, street vacations, sale of City property and preliminary plat. The Community Design Review Board should review the reduction in parking stalls, the parking stall size variance and the site, building and landscape plans. MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: LOCATION: DATE: City Manager Ken Roberts, Associate Planner Maplewood Retail Addition White Bear Avenue, Highway 36, Ariel Street and 1 lth Avenue November 3, 1994 CONTENTS INTRODUCTION .............................................................. 2 Project Description ................................................. 2 Requests ......................................................... 2 DISCUSSION ................................................................ 3 Open Space ...................................................... 3 Land Use Plan and Zoning Changes ................................... 3 Traffic ........................................................... 3 Other Retail Development in the Area .................................. 5 Conditional Use Permit for the Garden Center ............................ 5 Street Vacations ................................................... 5 Sale of City Property ................................................ 6 Parking Stall Width Variance ......................................... 6 Reduction in Required Parking Stalls ................................... 6 Design ........................................................... 7 Building Materials ............................................... 7 Landscape Plan ................................................ 7 Grading and Trees ............................................... 8 RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................................... 8 CITIZEN COMMENTS ......................................................... 16 REFERENCE ............................................................... 17 HISTORY ....................................................... 17 SITE DESCRIPTION ............................................... 17 SURROUNDING LAND USES ....................................... 17 LEGAL .......................................................... 18 PLANNING ...................................................... 18 SOILS .......................................................... 18 ORDINANCE REQUIREMENTS ...................................... 18 DEVELOPMENT POLICIES ......................................... 19 INTRODUCTION Project Description Marc Kruger has applied to redevelop the land that is between White Bear Avenue and Ariel Street, and between 1 lth Avenue and Highway 36. The proposal is for 27.5 acres of commercial and 6.6 acres of multiple dwellings for a total of 34.1 acres. The project's name is Maplewood Retail Addition. (See the location and property line maps on pages 22 and 25.) To build this project, the developer is proposing to buy 28 homes, one business and about 13 acres of vacant land. Thc commercial part of thc project would have five separate stores: an 89,244-square-foot grocery store (with a 13,020-square-foot expansion area), a 102,160-square-foot home-care store with an outdoor garden center, a 3,000-square-foot Boston Chicken restaurant, a 7,000-square- foot video store and a 25,785-square-foot pet supply store. There would be 1,271 parking spaces and room for another 86 parking spaces. (See the site plan on page 29.) The developer would add turn lanes and install a traffic signal on White Bear Avenue at the project access drive. Requests To develop this project, Mr. Kruger is requesting that the City do the following: Change the City's land use plan map. This change would be from R-1 (single dwellings), LBC (limited business commercial) and NC (neighborhood commercial) to BC (business commercial) and R-3M (multiple dwellings-medium density). (See the land use maps on pages 23 and 24.) Change the City's zoning map. This change would be from F (farm residential), R-1 (single dwellings) and NC (neighborhood commercial) to BC (business commercial) and R-3 (multiple dwellings). (See the zoning maps on pages 25 and 26.) 3. Approve a conditional use permit (CUP) for the garden center's outdoor storage, sales and display. 4. Vacate the streets within the site. (See the map on page 27.) 5. Deed City property to the developer. (See the map on page 27.) 6. Approve a preliminary plat for five commercial lots and one outlot. (See the propgsed plat on page 28.) 7. Approve a variance for 9.5-foot-wide parking stalls. The City Code requires 1 O-foot-wide parking stalls. 2 8. Allow fewer parking spaces than required by the City Code. 9. Approve site, building and landscape plans. DISCUSSION Open Space Many neighbors prefer to keep this property for open space or a park. The City would have to buy all or part of this property to keep it as open space. The City has no plans to buy this land for open space or park. In 1992, the Maplewood Open Space Committee rated sites for the City to consider buying. The Committee ranked the comer of Ariel Street and 1 lth Avenue 38 of 67 sites and 6 out of 12 sites in that neighborhood. The Committee did not recommend that the City purchase this site with the open space bond issue proceeds. Land Use Plan and Zoning Changes The City does not have specific findings for changing the land use plan. Any changes, however, should be consistent with the policies in the City's comprehensive plan. I have listed the appropriate polices on pages 19 and 20. The developer's proposal meets these policies. There are four City requirements for rezoning. These are in the resolution on page 69. This proposal would meet the rezoning criteria if the developer makes all the required traffic improvements. (See the traffic section below.) The developer's plans show 6.6-acres (Outlot A) for future multiple dwellings. The developer has asked the City to plan this area for R-3M (medium density residences). This designation is for a variety of housing types with a density of 6-9.5 units per gross acre. The 6.6-acre Outlot A could have up to 63 housing units. Multiple dwellings on Outlot A would be consistent with City policies. One of these policies is to have changes in types of land uses occur so that similar uses front on the same street. The multiple dwellings on Outlot A would be between the proposed commercial area and the town houses and apartments in North Saint Paul. Town houses are proposed on the north side of 1 lth Avenue. Traffic Some neighbors were concerned that this development would create too much traffic. Specifically, they were concerned about the 1 lth Avenue intersections with White Bear Avenue and with Ariel Street. White Bear Avenue is five lanes and 1 lth Avenue is four lanes with a median at the White Bear Avenue intersection. Maplewood has designated White Bear Avenue as a major arterial and 1 lth Avenue as a major collector street. The County and the City have designed major arterial streets to carry high volumes oftraffc. Collector streets are designed to do several things. These include carrying traffic between the arterial system and the local system, 3 moving traffic between major subdivisions, business centers and the like, and providing direct access to abutting properties. The developer had a traffic consultant prepare a traffic study of the proposed development. (See the report starting on page 30.) The study made the following findings: - Sufficient vehicular capacity is available along White Bear Avenue and 1 lth Avenue to accommodate the traffic generated by this development. The leR-tum movements from the 1 lth Avenue access drive onto 1 lth Avenue will operate at a poor level of service (level E). (The traffic consultant told me that a service level ore is common for retail developments. They recommend changes when the service level drops to level F. He did not recommend prohibiting lei~ tums from the site. This would only add traffic to the other intersections.) A traffic signal at the White Bear Avenue access drive would function efficiently for site access. There would be ample capacity to accommodate the projected retail development traffic at a satisfactory level of service. During the weekday rush hour, there would be no loss of service at the White Bear Avenue/1 lth Avenue intersection, the north Highway 36 ramps or the south Highway 36 ramps. During the Saturday peak period, the intersection of White Bear Avenue/Highway 36 south ramps will drop from a good to an acceptable level of service (level B to level C). However, the other intersections will remain at their current service levels. - The consultant recommended the following off-site improvements: 1. Add a channelized southbound lei't-turn lane at the access intersection on White Bear Avenue. Some road widening may be required to accommodate the median width. 2. Add an exclusive northbound right-turn lane on White Bear Avenue at the main site entrance. Dan Soler, the County Traffic Engineer, is studying the impact of this center on White Bear Avenue traffic. The County wants to know the effect of adding the proposed traffic signal at the White Bear Avenue entrance. Mr. Soler told me that he does not yet have all the information he needs to analyze the impacts of this proposal. As such, he cannot yet make any recommendations about traffic impacts from the proposed development. He hopes to have final recommendations about the traffic and streets by November 7, 1994. We are making recommendations with the assumption that Mr. Soler's recommendations will be ready by the Planning Commission meeting. If not, we will recommend that the Commission table all action on this project until those recommendations are ready. 4 Other Retail Development in the Area Several neighbors wrote there is enough commercial development in the area and there is no need for additional retail. There is Rainbow Foods grocery store and a shopping center across White Bear Avenue to the north and west of the site. There also is commercial development including a Target Store to the east of the site in North Saint Paul. The City Attorney has advised staffthat the City cannot deny a change to the comprehensive plan or to the zoning map because of the number of similar uses in the area. The courts have said that cities cannot make market judgments. Cities must base their decisions on land use criteria. Cities must allow the market to decide how much and what type of retail development the area will support. Conditional Use Permit for the Garden Center The developer is proposing an outside garden center next to the home improvement store. Section 36-151 (b)(4) of the City Code requires a conditional use permit (CUP) for the exterior storage, display, sale or distribution of goods or materials in the BC (business commercial) zoning district. Section 36-442(a) of the City Code gives nine standards for approving a CUP. I have listed them in the resolution on pages 70-71. The garden center would meet these standards. The garden center woul'd be inconspicuous. The plans show a screening wall around and a green house over part of the garden center. The wall and greenhouse would screen most of the storage area. Street Vacations The developer is requesting that the City vacate the following rights-of-way in the site: 1. Gervais Avenue, between White Bear Avenue and Ariel Street 2. Castle Avenue, between Gervais Avenue and Highway 36 I have shown these rights-of-way on the map on page 27. State law states that a city cannot vacate a street unless it is in the public interest. There is no public interest in keeping these streets and fights-of-way. The developer would use the whole site (including the existing streets) for the development. The proposed development would include private driveways from White Bear and 1 lth Avenues for site access. Castle Avenue between Gervais Avenue and Highway 36 is part of the Highway 36 right-of- way. The developer is working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation about vacating this right-of-way. The buildings would meet all City building setback requirements without the vacation of the right-of-way. A comer of the parking lot in the northwest comer of Lot 2 would be too close to the right-of-way. Without the vacation, the developer would have to move the parking lot back to fifteen feet from the right-of-way. Sale of City Property Maplewood owns a 30-foot-wide strip of land within the project site. This land runs from the east end of the Gervais Avenue pavement to Ariel Street. (See the map on page 27.) The City land is 597 feet long with a total area of 17,910 square feet (.41 acres). The platting of the Castle Acres subdivision in 1931 created this property. Maplewood received this property a.qer the owners forfeited it for taxes. The City intended to use this land to extend Gervais Avenue to Ariel Street. With the proposed development, the City would not need this land for a street. The developer wants the City to deed this strip to them so that they can use it in the project. The City Attorney told me that the developer needs to have an appraisal done of this property to decide its value. Based on the appraisal, the City would have to negotiate with the developer on a price for the land. Parking Stall Width Variance The developer is requesting 9.5-foot-wide parking spaces. The City Code requires 1 O-foot-wide parking spaces for customers and 9-foot-wide spaces for employees. The developer would need a variance for 9.5-foot-wide stalls. (See the letter on page 51 that explains the reasons for the variance.) The City should deny this variance. State law requires that to approve a variance, the City must find a unique hardship to the property and that the variance would meet the intent of the Code. Neither of these conditions would be met with this variance. The intent of the Code is to reduce dents in cars from people opening their car doors too far. Particularly with a grocery store and home care center, people will be opening their car doors wide to put large packages into their cars. The letter on page 51 mentions other cities that allow narrower parking stalls. Other cities standards may be an argument for changing the Code, but not for approving a variance. A variance is for a specific property because of a unique hardship. If the Council wants to change the Code, they should initiate a Code change. The other reasons given in the letter do not address the reason for a parking stall width variance. Reduction in Required Parking Stalls There are not enough parking spaces to meet the Code requirement. The developer's parking calculations do not include the garden center. In the past, the City has included garden centers in calculating the minimum number of required parking spaces. While garden centers are seasonal, they are still retail sales and display areas that attract customers with cars. Including the garden center, the Code requires 1,318 parking spaces. The site plan shows 1,272 spaces, with 86 spaces in reserve. Therefore, they are 46 paved spaces short. If the City denies the parking stall width variance, they will lose more spaces. The City Code allows the Council to approve fewer than the required number of spaces. The Council has done so for other shopping centers, such as Maplewood East Shopping Center. The 6 Council approved fewer spots because all the stores share parking spaces. The Watershed Board staff recommended that the City phase the parking until there is a proven need. This would keep more green space to allow infiltration of storm water. The City should allow the proposed parking spaces if the developer shows the required number of spaces in reserve. Design Building Materials This site is a gateway into Maplewood from Highway 36. If built, this center would create the first impression of Maplewood for many people. The City should require a high level of design and materials in this project. The design and materials should be at least as good as the surrounding businesses. There is a mix of building materials near this site. They include brick with wood accents on the dental office building, rockface block on the Mapleridge Center and precast concrete with stone accents on the church. The grocery store would have rockface block walls with a smooth accent band. The front elevation shows a stucco-like material on the entry canopy. The store front area would have concrete columns, clear aluminum and glass. The walls on the Home Care Center would be rockface block with several accent bands. As with the grocery store, the proposed plans show stucco-like canopies over the front door areas. The plans do not give any color information for either building. Boston Chicken is the proposed restaurant on the northwest comer of the site. The developer submitted typical building elevations for this restaurant. These plans, however, do not show the type and color of building materials for Boston Chicken. Revised plans should be submitted to the City showing building materials and colors that coordinate with those of the Grocery Store and Home Care Store. The City should require brick on all the buildings in the development to help make them compatible with the dental office. The Community Design Review Board (CDRB) should approve the amount and type of brick and the building colors and materials. There should be a coordinated plan and design for all the buildings in the center. The designers and architects should design the buildings, site and signs in a way that makes a consistent theme throughout the project while allowing for individual tenant design needs. The CDRB could reduce the amount of brick where they decide that the design does not need brick. Landscape Plan The Watershed District staff had several suggestions for the landscape plan. (See their memo starting on page 54.) These suggestions incorporate the recommendations of the Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Project report. A goal of the Chain of Lakes report is to enhance wildlife habitat and encourage the infiltration of storm water, rather than piping it to lakes and wetlands. 7 Fran Kiesling, the Maplewood Environmental Intern, had several comments about the proposed plans. (See her memos on pages 57 and 59.) It is her opinion that the developer could change the proposed plans to work better with the proposed site conditions and to meet some of the recommendations of the Phalen Chain of Lakes project. She notes the developer should use plant and tree species that are more native to Minnesota. Native species bought locally will have a better chance to survive temperature and moisture extremes and local insects and diseases than those brought in from other parts of the country. Fran made several suggestions for plant types in her memo. Grading and Trees The developer plans to grade most of the commercial site. The large amount of grading would require the removal of all the trees in the grading area. The proposed multiple-family area on the east side of the site would have little grading now. There would be a storm water pond on the north end and some grading of the slope between the commercial area and the multiple-family area. Many existing trees in the future multiple-dwelling area would stay for now. The City Code requires at least 341 trees on the site when the developer is finished (10 trees per acre). The developer is proposing to plant 176 trees. The developer should determine the number of existing large trees that he will leave and make sure there would be at least 341 new trees or existing large trees on the site. RECOMMENDATIONS A. Adopt the resolution on page 65. This resolution changes the land use plan from LBC (limited business commercial), R-1 (single dwellings) and NC (neighborhood commercial) to BC (business commercial) and R-3M (medium density multiple dwellings). This change is for the following reasons: 1. The developer is proposing to develop this site for commercial uses. 2. With the traffic improvements proposed, the streets will have sufficient vehicular capacity to handle the traffic from this development. 3. The proposed commercial development would be compatible with the nearby land uses on White Bear and 1 lth Avenues. 4. The proposed commercial development would be more compatible with traffic and conditions on White Bear and 1 lth Avenues than the existing homes. 5. The proposed R-3M classification would be compatible with the existing multiple dwellings east of Ariel Street. 6. The existing property owners are in favor. Adopt the resolution on page 66. This resolution changes the zoning map from R-1 (single dwellings) and NC (neighborhood commercial) to BC (business commercial) and R-3 (multiple dwellings) for the reasons required by Code. Approve the resolution on page 70. This resolution approves a conditional use permit (CLIP) for outdoor storage, sales and display for a garden center. This permit is based on the findings required by Code and shall be subject to the following conditions: 1. All construction shall follow the site plan that the City stamped October 19, 1994. The Director of Community Development may approve minor changes. 2. The store shall use the outside storage and display within one year of the Council's approval or the permit shall end. The council may extend this deadline for one year. 3. The City Council shall review this permit in one year. Adopt the resolution on page 72. This resolution vacates the street rights-of-way in the project site (Gervais Avenue east of White Bear Avenue and Castle Avenue from Gervais Avenue south to Highway 36.) The City should vacate these street right-of-ways because: 1. It is in the public interest. 2. The proposed development will provide its own access to White Bear and 1 lth Avenues. 3. The adjacent properties have street access. The developer shall record the resolution with the final plat. The City shall not release the resolution until the City has approved the final plat. E. Adopt the resolution on page 74. This resolution authorizes the sale of the 30-foot-wide strip of land owned by the City between Gervais Avenue and Ariel Street. Approve the Maplewood Retail Addition preliminary plat (received by the City on October 19, 1994). Before the City Council approves the final plat, a developer shall complete the following conditions: 1. Sign an agreement with the City that guarantees that the developer or contractor will: Complete all grading for overall site drainage, complete all public improvements and meet all City requirements. b.* Place temporary orange safety fencing and signs at the grading limits. Co Install a traffic signal system, channelized southbound left-turn lane and exclusive northbound fight-mm lane on White Bear Avenue at the White Bear Avenue entrance and any other improvements required by the County. This may require widening White Bear Avenue. The City and County Engineers must approve these improvements before the developer has them installed. These signals must be operating before the City issues the first certificate of occupancy for the project. 2.* Have the City Engineer approve final construction and engineering plans. These plans shall include: grading, utility, drainage, erosion control, tree, sidewalk and parking lot plans. The plans shall meet the following conditions: The erosion control plan shall be consistent with the Ramsey Soil and Water Conservation District Erosion and Sediment Control handbook. The grading plan shall include sedimentation basins and storm water pond capacity as required by the Watershed Board. c. The drainage plan shall do the following: Show the size and capacity of the pipes, storage and sedimentation basins. These shall be consistent with Maplewood and Watershed District storm water management plans. A registered engineer shall prepare this plan. (2) Where the grading allows, design the medians so they collect storm water for infiltration. (3) Route rooftop drainage into infiltration devices, such as trenches, swales or pits, near the buildings. These devices shall be designed to minimize direct discharge into the storm water system. The developer shall connect the infiltration devices to the storm water system to control the storm water from large storm events. (4) Design catch basins to accommodate infiltration of storm water runoff into the ground, as required by the City Engineer. The design of the proposed storm water pond shall be approved by the City Engineer and the Watershed District. The pond shall be designed, shaped and graded to lessen its artificial appearance. This shall include varying the shape and grade of the side slopes and providing for emergent vegetation and open water. If the slopes are steeper than ten horizontal to one vertical, the developer shall fence the pond with a five-foot-high green vinyl-clad chain link fence. The developer shall landscape the area around the pond and shall show this landscaping on the landscaping plan. I0 The tree plan shall show the size, species and location of any trees that the developer will plant as replacement trees or existing large trees to be preserved. There shall be at least 341 trees on the commercial and residential sites when the project is done (with the trees that the developer will plant and with the large trees that they will save.). 3. Show the following changes on the final plat: a. A drainage easement for the storm water pond in Outlot A. b. Provide at least a twenty-foot setback between the southerly truck turnaround area and the property line. 4.* Provide all easements required by the City Engineer. 5. Record easements or agreements for ingress, egress and utilities with the final plat. The City staff must approve these before the developer records them. 6. Deed to the County the property required by the City for additional right-of-way for White Bear Avenue. If the developer decides to final plat part of the preliminary plat, the City may waive any conditions that do not apply to the final plat. *The developer must complete these conditions before the City issues a grading permit or approves the final plat. G. Deny the parking stall width variance for the following reasons: 1. There is no unique hardship to the property that justifies a variance. 2. 9.5-foot-wide stalls would not meet the intent of the ordinance. Approve a reduction in the required number of parking stalls, provided that the total number of paved and reserve parking spaces at least equals the number of spaces required by the City Code. Approve the design plans received on October 19, 1994 for the Maplewood Retail Addition (including the grocery store, home care store and Boston Chicken restaurant). Approval is based on the findings required by the Code and subject to the developer doing the following: 1. Submit a revised site plan to the Community Design Review Board (CDRB) for approval. This plan shall show the following changes: Widen the east-west median strips to at least ten feet. Replace the median in Lot 2 with two medians placed three to four aisles apart. The parking lot north of the pet supply store shall have a fffieen-foot setback from the west property line. If the State does not vacate the Castle Avenue right-of-way next to this parking lot, the developer shall change the parking lot design to meet the fifteen-foot-setback requirement. Revise the parking lot design if the Council does not approve the parking stall width variance. There shall be enough proposed and reserve parking stalls to meet the Code requirement. d. Show an eight-foot-wide asphalt trail along the south lot line. The trail shall run from Ariel Street to the drive at the southwest comer of the home store. eo Combine the small parking lot islands into larger islands and green areas. This shall include dropping some of the small islands at the end of the rows of parking and making other islands larger. Submit revised building elevations to the CDRB for approval. These plans shall show the following: a. The colors and materials for each building in the project. b. The designs for each building. Brick on at least 50 percent of the north and west elevations of the grocery store, on at least 50 percent of the west and south elevations of the home care store and on 50 percent of all elevations of the three freestanding buildings. The colors and styles of all wall and facade materials for all buildings in the project shall be the same. The CDRB may reduce the amount of brick if they determine that the quality of building design does not warrant the use of brick. d. The roof-equipment screening and trash and compactor enclosures. Submit a revised landscape plan to the CDRB for approval. This plan shall show the following: a. Native grasses, shrubs, trees and flowering plants on the large slope to the east and south of the grocery and home care stores. Types of grasses, shrubs, trees and flowering plants that are native to Minnesota and that require minimal management. (See the memo on page 57.) 12 4, c. Plant species that are more tolerant of parking lot conditions (including limited space, compacted soils, higher temperatures and drier conditions) in the parking lot islands and near the edges of the parking lots. d. Plant species and materials that are tolerant of moist conditions around the storm water pond and in the storm water collection areas. e. The use of more understory and shrub materials to provide a mix of planting sizes and heights. f. Document the number of large trees (as defined by City Code) that will remain on the site after the contractor has finished the grading. There shall be at least 341 trees on the site when the project is done (with those that the developer will plant and with the large trees that they will save.). g All coniferous (pine, spruce) trees shall be at least eight feet tall. h. Consolidate the small islands at the ends of the parking aisles into larger planting islands. This shall include dropping some of the small islands and making other islands larger. i. Cluster plants together to provide better wildlife habitat areas and to increase the chance of survival of the plant materials. Complete the following before the City issues a building permit: a. Submit a certificate of survey for all new construction. b. Have the City Engineer approve final construction and engineering plans. These plans shall include: grading, utility, drainage, storm water, erosion control, tree, sidewalk and parking lot plans. c. Record all required easements, including any wetland buffer zones. d. Pay the City of North St. Paul for the use of 1 lth Avenue. Complete the following before occupying the buildings: a. Set new property irons with the final plat. b. Completely restore and establish vegetative ground cover on all boulevards to the curb. 1.3 Install reflector[zed stop signs at all exits and where the site driveways intersect, a handicap-parking sign for each handicap-parking space and an address on each building. Screen all roof-mounted equipment visible from streets or adjacent property, as code requires. These screens shall be a color and design that are compatible with the building. The screening design and method shall be subject to CDRB approval. Construct trash dumpster and compactor enclosures as City Code requires. Ail enclosures must match the building elevation in design, material and color and shall have 1 O0 percent opaque gates. The final design of the enclosures shall be subject to CDRB approval. f Install an in-ground sprinkler system for all landscaped areas, except on the slopes to the east and south of the grocery and home care stores and those areas intended to be unmaintained. Sprinklers must not spray on a public sidewalk. g. Install on-site fire hydrants subject to the Fire Marshal's requirements. Stripe al! parking areas, and all bituminous areas shall have continuous concrete curb and gutter. The City Engineer shall approve the curb and gutter design. Install site security and parking lot lighting. The contractor shall install this lighting so it does not glare onto adjacent properties or onto public streets. In addition, the lighting shall not be directly visible from the adjacent residential areas. The lighting shall not exceed one foot-candle at the east property line. Provide proof that the required cross easements that allow access between all the lots in the project have been recorded with the County. ko Install a traffic signal system, channelized southbound left-mm lane and exclusive northbound right-turn lane on White Bear Avenue at the White Bear Avenue entrance and any other improvements required by the County. This may require widening White Bear Avenue. The City Engineer and County must approve these improvements before the developer has them installed. 1. Properly seal any abandoned wells on the site that are not already sealed. 6. If any required work is not done, the City may allow temporary occupancy if: The City decides that the work is not essential to the public health, safety or welfare. 14 The City receives a cash escrow or an irrevocable letter of credit for the required work. The amount shall be 150% of the cost of the unfinished work. The City receives an agreement that will allow the City to complete any unfinished work. This approval does not include the signs. The developer shall apply to the City for a comprehensive sign plan approval for the center. This shall include business identification, pylon, directional and traffic signs. This approval does not include the area north of the grocery store shown as "future expansion area." This approval does not include the video or pet supply stores. The developer shall apply to the CDRB for approval of each of these buildings. 10. All work shall follow the approved plans with the required changes. The Director of Community Development may approve minor changes. 11. The developer or applicant shall repeat the design review in two years if the City has not issued a building permit for this project. Appeals Anyone may appeal the Board's decision to the City Council. An appellant must notiOj someone in the Community Development Department within fifteen days after the Board's meeting. 15 CITIZEN COMMENTS We asked the nearby property owners for their opinion of these requests. We sent surveys to the property owners within 350 feet of the perimeter of the site. (This did not include the 30 properties in the project area.) Out ofg0 properties, we received 33 replies. Nine were for the requests, 21 were against, and three had no comment. We also received a petition in favor of the this project from the owners that the developer will buy out. (See the petition on page 61 .) Those for the requests had the following comments: 1. We would only ask that median cuts occur directly across from our driveway exiting our property onto 11th Street. (Maplewood Dental - 2480 White Bear Avenue) 2. It would increase revenue for our community and provide more employment opportunities. It would draw more people to our area as well. (Redeeming Love Church - 2425 White Bear Avenue) Since the mall went in the traffic is terrible on White Bear Avenue---it would bring more traffic in. (Perron- 1971 Gervais Avenue) 4. I love to shop. I would object to the proposal if our taxes increased because of it. (Rehberg - 1922 Castle Avenue) 5. Absolutely yestI have owned my property for 33 years and I would be delighted to see some development go ahead instead of just sitting there idle--the taxes have become a real problem to me. (Humphrey - Winona, Minnesota) 6. It would be nice to have another grocery store in the area as well as other businesses. I don't want anybody to have to sell their homes or be in any way pressed or inconvenienced to do anything that they don't want to do during the development. (Kaup - 2289 Ariel Court) 7. 1 lth and White Bear Avenue and Highway 36 shouldn't be single-family housing. (Hillcrest Development - Minneapolis) 8. We can't "stand in the way" of progress, complete your project. (Jones - 2453 Crestwood Drive) Those against the requests had the following comments: Because of the number and length of comments against, I have summarized them below. 1. We do not need more retail in the area. 2. Traffic concernsttoo much in the area (congestion) and safety concerns. 3. There is too much rental housing property in the area (in North Saint Paul). 4. It would be destructive to the environment and cause a loss to wildlife habitat. 5. It would cause a decrease in property values. 6. There would be an increase in noise. 7. See the letters on pages 62, 63 and 64 for additional comments. REFERENCE HISTORY On February 13, 1984, the City Council approved a land use plan and zoning map change for the property at 1915 Castle Avenue (Forest Products). The land use plan change was from RL (residential low density) to LSC (limited service commercial). The zoning map change was from BC (business commercial) to NC (neighborhood commercial). On October 23, 1989, the City Council denied a request to change the land use plan. The change was from LSC (limited service commercial) to SC (service commercial). This was for the property on the southeast comer of White Bear and 1 lth Avenues. Amoco Oil wanted to build a convenience store with gas pumps and a car wash. The Council also tabled a zoning map change for this site. SITE DESCRIPTION Area: 34. l acres Existing land uses: about 13 undeveloped acres, 28 homes and one business (Forest Products) SURROUNDING LAND USES North: West: South: East: Dental office, undeveloped land and proposed town houses across 1 lth Avenue Church and Northwestern Bell building across White Bear Avenue Highway 36 Town houses and apartments across Ariel Street in North Saint Paul 17 LEGAL For street vacations, Chapter 412.851 of Minnesota State law states that "No such vacation shall be made unless it appears in the interest of the public to do so ..." PLANNING The R-1 (single dwellings) land use designation is for low density residential land uses like single dwellings. The NC (neighborhood commercial) land use designation is for businesses that are compatible with adjacent residential neighborhoods. The BC (business and commercial) land use designation is for general commercial development including a variety of commercial uses. The City may permit high-intensity uses, such as fast-food restaurants, subject to specific performance guidelines. The R-3M (multiple dwellings - medium density) land use designation is for a variety of multiple dwellings. SOILS The Ramsey Soil and Water Conservation District informed us that the soils on this site are suitable for development if the developer controls the erosion. The District recommends that the developer get specific soils data before developing the site. ORDINANCE REQUIREMENTS Section 36-442(a) states that the City Council may grant a CUP if based on nine findings for approval. (See the findings on pages 70 and 71.) State law requires that the City Council make the following findings before they approve a variance: Strict enforcement would cause undue hardship because of circumstances unique to the property under consideration. 2. The variance would be in keeping with the spirit and intent of the ordinance. "Undue hardship" as used in granting a variance means the property in question cannot be put to a reasonable use if used under conditions allowed by the official controls. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property, not created by the landowner, and the variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. Economic considerations alone shall not constitute an undue hardship if reasonable use for the property exists under the terms of the ordinance. 18 Section 25-70 of the City Code requires that the CDRB make the following findings to approve plans: That the design and location of the proposed development and its relationship to neighboring, existing or proposed developments and traffic is such that it will not impair the desirability of investment or occupation in the neighborhood; that it will not unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring, existing or proposed developments; and that it will not create traffic hazards or congestion. That the design and location of the proposed development is in keeping with the character of the surrounding neighborhood and is not detrimental to the harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated by this article and the City's comprehensive municipal plan. That the design and location of the proposed development would provide a desirable environment for its occupants, as well as for its neighbors, and that it is aesthetically of good composition, materials, textures and colors. DEVELOPMENT POLICIES The land use plan has eleven overall land use goals. Of these, four apply to the commercial part of this proposal. They are: provide for orderly development, promote economic development that will expand the property, tax base, increase jobs and provide desirable services, minimize land planned for streets, and minimize conflicts between land uses. The land use plan also has several general development policies that relate to the commercial part of this project. They are: The City will not approve new development without providing for adequate public facilities and services, such as streets, utilities, drainage, parks and open space. Safe and adequate access will be provided for all properties. Transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses should not create a negative economic, social or physical impact on adjoining developments. - Whenever possible, changes in types of land uses should occur so that similar uses from on the same street or at borders of areas separated by major man-made or natural barriers. - The City requires drainage and erosion control plans with new developments. Such plans shall not increase the rate of runoff and shall prevent erosion. - The City supports the improvement, replacement or redevelopment of substandard or incompatible development. 19 - The City coordinates its planning with neighboring communities. - The City applies its development policies and ordinances consistently and uniformly. There are several commercial and industrial development policies from the plan that the City should consider with this development. They are: - Group compatible businesses in suitable areas. Provide attractive surroundings in which to shop and work. Require adequate off-street loading facilities. Promote the joint use of parking areas, drives and trash containers. Require commercial and industrial developers to make all necessary improvements to ensure compatibility with surrounding residential uses. Require adequate screening or buffering of new or expanded commercial areas from any adjacent existing or planned residential development. Plan land uses and streets to route nonresidential traffic around residential neighborhoods. Of the eleven general land use goals in the comprehensive plan, three apply to the residential part of this proposal. They are: minimize land planned for streets, minimize conflicts between land uses and provide many housing types. The land use plan also has several general development and residential development policies that relate to the housing part of this project. They are: Transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses should not create a negative economic, social or physical impact on adjoining developments. Whenever possible, changes in types of land uses should occur so that similar uses front on the same street or at borders of areas separated by major man-made or natural barriers. Include a variety of housing types for all types of residents, regardless of age, ethnic, racial, cultural or socioeconomic background. A diversity of housing types should include apartments, town houses, manufactured homes, single-family housing, public-assisted housing and Iow- to moderate-income housing, and rental and owner-occupied housing. Protect neighborhoods from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible land uses by adequate buffering and separation. 2O The housing plan also has policies about housing diversity and quality that the City should consider with this development. They are: Promote a variety of housing types, costs and ownership options throughout the City. These are to meet the life-cycle needs of all income levels, those with special needs and nontraditional households. The City will continue to provide dispersed locations for a diversity of housing styles, types and price ranges through its land use plan. The City's long-term stability of its tax base depends upon its ability to attract and keep residents of all ages. To do so, the City must insure that a diverse mix of housing styles is available in each stage of the life cycle of housing needs. p:secl 1/retail.morn Allacluncn~: 1. Location Map land Use Plan Map (Existing) 3. Land Usc Plan Map (Proposed) 4. Property Line/Zoning Map (Exis~g) Property Line/zoning Map (Proposed) 6. Propc~y Linc Map (~acations) 7. Proposed Preliminary Plat 8. Proposed Site Plan 9. Barton-Aschman Traffic Study 10. R~viscd Trip Generation Volumes Memo 11. Letter about thc PartY, lng Stall Width Variance 12. 10-13-94 memo from Ramscy-Washington Watershed Di~'ict 13. 10-21-94 memo from Fran Kiesling 14. 11-1-94 memo from Fran Kiesling 15. Petition from the owners thc developer will buy out 16. 9-18-94 letter from McPhce and Smith 17. 9-21-94 stalemcn! from ~ 18.9-23-94 let~r from Cad Keller, Jr. (Keller Properties) 19. Land Use Plan Change Resolution 20. Zoning Map Change Resolution 21. Outdoor Storage Conditional Usc Penni! Resolution 22. SU'cct Vacation Rcanlution 23. Resolution Authorizin~ the Sale of City Property 24. Project Plans (separate attachmcm) 21 Attachment 1 NORTH SAINT GOODRICH Attachment 2 Co.~!Rcl. D ,. ; major collector I~ M-1 ~OS BC(M) R-3 P iI1 major COIluclor · alii Hill .... M-1 '.; : ........ M-1 LBC OS~ collec;tor -- R-_3(H) I 1 mai0i'..erterial ~ 7;"~'~:-'"'~'-' I Highway 36 i-' ,nte'rcha ge · , ~i~'~"~ ' --~ ~ · .... _ ~ -"' __~,, ; I '~ ~ _o BC: BU>SlNESS COMMERCIAL R-1 = SII~GLE DW~=LLINGS ~' M-1 = LIGHT MANUFACTURING R-3(H) = MULTIPLE DWELLINGS ~ OS = OPEN SPACE NC = NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL -." C = CHURCH E .c' LBC = LIMITED BUSINESS COMMERCIAL ~ P = PARK 23 Attachment 3 M-1 major Collector mmmmmmmmm M-1 major colleclor ~ mm're'rellim BC(M) , R-3(M P .+ mini tm.~ CO major collector mmmmm OS P " LBC M- 1 R-3(H) = MULTIPLE DWELLINGS Highway 36 LBC = LIMITED BUSINESS COMMEI~IAL NC = NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL "BC m .R.-_3(H) R-3(M) ntercnange BC = BUSINESS COMMERCIAL M-1 = LIGHT MANUFACTURING OS = OPEN SPACE -.='C = CHURCH ~: P = PARK LAND USE MAP (PROPOSED) 24 Attachment 4 · ,' ~ , ' V i. , ! I I Ii I · = !u~; · '- ' ' Z ..... .~,..,,,h ~ (.-,) . - -~ -- "J - ? ' ...... -i~ . ,.,, i ~.' ;~- ~...... ~ ' '. % · -,..,, - ~,~ , , ~'~ ..,,..-.. '~ i ,~ . iii ..... /--- _ , ,k · ,.... · { ;, ,.- · .i i ' · (,~) · \ . ~ ' · II · . ,, 'zo - · ' : ~ ............... ~ -- ' ....... '"' NTH " --...~.' , .. ,,.. (") ~ . . .,... REDEEMING LOVE OHUI~;H 2&44' .~._~ J~i / ..,* :~ ~-~-~t~:, 1~.~ !'S,-~-k:l' -~"~ ,o iI._.~.;:-.,:~:~ .... /jj o~' ~- .~.~ .~-;~', ..... ~m ' ,I- : ~' I ~"' i ~- J ' :i I / L J. I'~''''-- "' -· - o';'. ' · ~ :--'~-~-~--- -I :~--~ CAST/E iVE! JE .... L" j ' ........... ......... "- ,* ..'"' ·, ~' ~,,:,, ;., '.- ,,...~.,.. ~". /.J'l'l'l'l~~'~-~~" J I-I ~,,I,'"' ," ~~-~_'~.--.[~'~ LBO = LIMITED BUSINESS COMMERC!A_L PROPERTY LINE ! ZONING MAP (EXISTING) 25  &.,,_ l: U,I ~ ~'-~ I'1 ~" i~ ~ ~~ 2500 .-- m 2499[ ~ ~:,~ ~ Ii ~ ' ' : Iil '. 7 '2462 r'.) ~ ,.,,,. ~ ' "' ~' 2456 REDEEMING LOVE CHU~H' 2444  ,34-- BC ~ R3 ~ 2425 428 . 1971 GERVAIS G~.VA~S -- a ~94 1932 . NW BELL 2382 1890 237, ~ B C LBC ,i. , ~ ~ ~ t~GHWAY 36 :ASTLE AVl I I . H..t;, ' :ASTLE AVENUE~ ~'""'~ ' Attachment 5 2466 ,EVENTH HIGHWAY 36 ~h&.ik, .... F = FARM RESIDENTIAL ' /.,,.:,,I,i.,.I &~,,i,, l;'-r,~:,, .. R1 = SINGLE DWELLIN.G.S~ ,::~::.%~~, ~ ~-,,.. :.:. ... ~= BUSINESS COMMERCIAL. Mi' LIGHT MANUFACTURING LBC = LIMITED BUSINESS COMMERCIAL PROPERTY LINE ! ZONING MAP (PROPOSED) 26 N Attachment 6 ! I .I I I, I ELEVENTH -- RIGHT-OF-WAY DEDICATION ~ o~... (,0 (~) GERVAIS AVENUE VACATION o4! I CITY-OWNED LAND ~; (z~ : (,;,~ 'CASTLE AVENUE VACATION (-) loo ; (~? t .,,,~_~ '~ ................ : .... .~_- -._- ..................... VIKING I *""'""' ""'"'°"'~.',,,~' ' Tnu ; ,~,-,.,o~,~--"'"' '""" HIGHWAy 36, .-~,.;''36 · ~.~.4'~' ~2 -. la.~! I ': [" I ,' I · I,, ~ ' fAO ' I I¥0 -- Z 27 Attachment 7 GERVAIS AVENUE PROPOSED VACATIONS NOT FOR C I{ PROPOSED PRELIMINARY PL 28 Attachment 8 OPENINGS PUT MEDIANS HERE -\,. [}-'-MO,VE PROPOSED PROPERTY tINE OUTLOT A NOT FO 29 Attachment 9 SITE TRAFFIC IMPACT REPORT Maplewood Retail Development NE Quadrant of THB6 and White Bear Avenue Maplewood, MN September 2, 1994 Submitted to: RLK Associates, Inc. Submitted By: BJ~qTON-ASCHM~ ASSOCIATES~ INC, 30 LIST OF FIGURES ~e 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Site Location Map Project Area Map Existing Conditions Existin~ Peak Hour Traffic Volumes (1994) Proposed Site Plan Site Trip Distribution P.M. Peak Hour Site Generated Traffic Saturday Peak Hour Site Generated Traffic Post-Development Peak Hour Tr=t~c Volumes LIST OF TABLES Table 1 2 3 Proposed Development Trip Generation Signalized Intersection Performance Maximum Queue Lengths 3] INTRODUCTION A local developer is consideri~ a retail development consistin~ of a 89,000 square foot warehouse supermarket, a 110,000 square foot builrlln_~ products store, two fast-food restaurants (with drive-through) of 3,000 square feet each, a high turnover-type restaurant of 8,000 square feet, and an associated retail development of 7,500 square .feet. Located in the City of Maplewood, the site is bounded by White Bear Avenue, 11th Avenue, and TH $6. Primary access to the center is proposed on White Bear Avenue with secondary access alon~ llth Avenue. Barton. Aschman was retained to conduct a preliminary tr$~c study to determine the impact of the tr~t~ic generated by the proposed retail development on the street system in the vicinity of the site and feasibility of access. The site location is shown on Figure 1. The project area is shown on Figure 2. EXlSTn G TRAFFIC CONDITIONS Traffic signals are currently located on White Bear Avenue at County Road C, llth Avenue, and at the TH 36 ramp intersections. These signals are all a part of an interconnected tr~t~c signal system on White Bear Avenue, m~int~ined by Ramsey County. Manual turning movement counts were conducted during the weekday P.M. and Saturday peak hours on August 11 and August 13, 1994, respectively, at the intersections of White Bear Avenue at llth Avenue, White Bear Avenue at the north TH 36 ramp intersection, and White Bear Avenue at the south TH 36 ramp intersection. These counts were used as a basis for the traffic impact ~lysis of the retail development currently bein~ proposed by Ryan Construction Company. Existing traffic and geometric conditions are shown on Figure 3. Existing peak hour turning movement volumes are shown on Figure 4. The proposed site plan is shown on Figure 5. IMPACTED INTERSECTIONS In consultation with county staff, five critical intersections were determined to be impacted by the proposed retail center traffic. The impacted intersections are listed below. For study purposes, it was assumed that the intersection of the White Bear Avenue at the new site entrance would be a full-movement, signalized intersection and be added to the County's interconnected system: 2. 3. 4. 5. White Bear Avenue at llth Avenue . White Bear Avenue at North TH 36 Ramp White Bear Avenue at South TH 86 Ramp White Bear Avenue at Primary Site Entrance/Exit (signalized) llth Avenue at Secondary Site EntranceYExist (unsi~malized) TRAFFIC GENERATION The number of vehicle trips which will be generated by the proposed retail center were estimated using trip generation rates published by the Institute of Tr~ns0ortation Enrineers CITE) Trip Generation, fifth edition, 1991. Trip generation for the proposed retail center is specified in Table 1. Previous studies of similar centers indicate that depending on the development type, 13 to 50 percent of people visiting a retail center during the P.M. peak hour are combi~i~_v the stop at the center with the trip from work (pass-by trips) and/or have multiple destinations (shared trips) at the center. For the purposes of this study, pass-by trip rates were assumed to vary from 15 to 40 percent depending on the use, and shared trips were assumed to compose 20 percent of all trs_ffic visit,_'~_~ the center. TRIP DISTRIBUTION The directions of approach and departure for pass-by trips were determined based upon existing traffic characteristics. The resulting distribution is 75 percent of pass-by trips off of White Bear Avenue and 25 percent off of llth Avenue. The directional distribution of new trips was estimated by establishing a preliminary market area for the anchor stores. The market area was outlined based upon the locations and sizes of competing developments, natural physical boundaries, and existing roadway network characteristics including locations of traffic control devices. Once the market area was established, a Gravity Model was prepared following ~ Cooperative Hi~hwa_v Research Pro,am Re_port 187 guidelines. The Gravity Model is based on l~cations and density of households in the market area and the relative travel times to and from the site location. As such, the number of trips from any one "zone" in the market area is directly related to the density of households in the zone and inversely related to the travel time. The site location is well served by a number of local arterial streets. Access from the north across 1-694 will be along White Bear Avenue, Mcknight Avenue, and Century Avenue. To the south across TH 36, the primary roadways serving the site will be White Bear Avenue, Mclmlght Avenue, English Avenue, and Hazelwood. Access to the east and west will be along 11th Avenue. The resulting distribution of new trips is as follows: · · · · · · 25 percent to/from the north on White Bear Avenue 2 percent to/from the west on llth Avenue 20 percent to/from the east on llth Avenue 7 percent to/from the west on TH 36 5 percent to/from the east on TH 36 41 percent to/from the south on White Bear Avenue Site trip distribution is shown on Figure 6. 33 PROJECTED VOLUMES The 1996 peak hour back~round volumes were estimated by factorin~ the 1994 counts by a ~rowth factor of one percent per year. This growth factor was based on comparisons of traffic surveys conducted by Barton-Aschrnan in 1988. The 1996 peak hour post-development volumes were determined by combi,~in~ the site- generated new and pass-by trips with the 1996 background volumes in accordance w~h the directional distribution outlined above. P.M. peak hour site-generated traffic volumes are shown on Figure 7. Saturday peak hour site-generated traffic volumes are shown on Figure 8. Post-development peak hour traffic volumes for both weekday and Saturday peak hours are shown on Figure 9. CAPACITY ANALYSIS The traffic counts conducted at the intersections of White Bear Avenue at 11th Avenue and White Bear Avenue at the TH 36 ramp intersections were utilized with the projected traffic volumes to calculate traffic operational level of service (LOS) and capacity with and without the proposed development. The LOS of an intersection is measured in terms of average stop delay of a vehicle and is designated by a letter A through F, with A representing the shortest delay. The LOS for each impacted intersection was calculated for the peak hour conditions utilizing the observed peak hour factor obtained from the tr~t~lc counts along with the existing signal phasing and progression capabilities along White Bear Avenue. The ~n~lysis followed standard procedures outlined in the 1985 Hi_~hway Capacity Manual. The analysis of the proposed development's traffic generation indicates that sufficient vehicular capacity is available along White Bear Avenue and 11th Avenue to accommodate the traffic generated by the development. Existing 1994, background 1996, and post- development 1996 signalized intersection LOS for the weekday P.M. and Saturday peak hours is contained in Table 2. In addition, the unsignalized intersection LOS at the llth Avenue site driveway was evaluated and it was determined that the critical egress left-turn movement will operated at a LOS E. QUEUE LENGTH ANALYSIS A comparison was made of the maximum observed peak hour queue lengths for each intersection with the available storage capacity. The maximum queue lengths were obtained from the signalized intersection capacity analysis and is based upon the cycle length and estimated arrival rates. Table 3 contains a listing of the expected maximum queue lengths by movement for each intersection and time period under analysis. The results show that at occasionally during the peak hour the available storage may be exceeded by the traffic demand. In particular, the southbound through movement at the north TH 36 ramps may spill back into the Gervais Avenue intersection south of 1 lth Avenue. The northbound left- turn from White Bear onto westbound TH 36 at the north ramp's intersection also exceeds available supply both currently and in the post-development condition. At the south ramp's intersection, the northbound through movement occasionally exceeds the available storage 34 through the Cope Avenue intersection. This analysis is conservative in that it does not account for reductions in queue len&,th due to progressive si&,nal timing. Adjustments to the mystem timi_n_~ pl~n~ could in all likelihood avoid potential que-~n_~ problems. CONCLUSIONS · A traffic si/hal installation on Wh/te Bear Avenue, at the new site entrance will function efficiently for site access with ample capacity to accommodate the projected retail development traffic at a satisfactory LOS (C or better). · 'A It is expected that no chan~e in LOS will occur at the Wh/te Bear Avenue intersections with llth Avenue, north TH 36 ramps, and south TH 36 ramps with the proposed development. · The intersection of White Bear Avenue/TH 36 south ramps will chan~e from LOS B to LOS C during the Saturday peak period. However, the other intersections under study will remain at their ctuwent LOS. · The following off-site improvements are recommended: ·" - -- -:- ;ite '~e southbound left-turn lane only need be channelized. Some road widening may be required to accommodate the median width. 2. An exclusive northbound right-turn lane at the main site entrance. l1032.mn~ 35 Twin City Metro Area lvliI~e$ota ! ! ! / ? I I I I I I I I I I I IIIASHBIB'TON I CAII~ER NENI~EPIN I I I I_ BAKOTA 1 / ! I MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY SITE LOCATION MAP BAflTON-A~,CHMAN A~BBC)CIATB~. IN~. 111 Th#d 4,vi S, SuRe 350 M#'mllt~)~. MN ~.5401 Parsons Transportation Group Figure I 39 MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY PROJECT AREA MAP Figure 2 40 ,4IL "- 9300 ~" 11TH AVE PROPOSED SITE LOCATION 48300 TH 36 MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY LEGEND TRAFFIC SIGNAL ~ LEFT TURN LANE ~ THROUGH LANE ~ RIGHT TURN LANE '~ THROUGH AND RIGHT TURN LANE 999 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC (ADT) EXISTING CONDITIONS Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. 111 Tn~O Ave S., Su'te ~0 M,nneOpOhS, Parsons Transportation Group 41 Figure 3 11TH AVE PROPOSED SITE LOCATION TH 36 LEGEND TRAFFIC SIGNAL sgg P.M. PEAK HOUR (4.30 - 5.30 P.M.) 999 SATURDAY PEAK HOUR (12,00 ' 1,00 P.M.) MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. 111 '[~rO Ave S. $~te .~50 bl,nneo[,ohs. MN 554~1 Parsons Transportation Group EXISTING PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC VOLUMES (1994) Figure 4 42 MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY PROPOSED SITE PLAN Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. Parsons Transportation Group Figure 5 43 MAPLEWOOD REI'AIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. 111 ~,fc A~e $. $~te 5~)0 M~nneop~h$. Itt, Parsons Transportation Group 44 ¢nw .4yE ~'--',25%'--> ..~--'20%'--"~ PROPOSED SITE LOCA T1 ON .~.=. 5%.==~ TH 36 LEGEND ~RAFF,C ~ PASS'BY TRIPS ~ .~w T.~PS SITE TRIP DISTRIBUTION Figure 6 l 11TH AVE $'- 8~ ~¢2 PROPOSED SITE LOCATION TH 36 LEGEND TRAFFIC SIGNAL NEW TRIPS PASS-BY TRIPS TOTAL TRIPS (NEW AND PASS-BY) NOTE. VOLUMES IN PARENTHESIS REPRESENT REDUCTIONS FOR PASS-BY TRAFFIC. MAPLE:WOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY Barton-Aschman Associates. Inc. 111 Third Ave S, Su,te 550 bhnneopoh$. MN 5~)401 Parsons Transportation Group 45 P.M. PEAK HOUR SITE GENERATED TRAFFIC Figure 7 ~-- 30 0 30 b~. 93 83 !'1(= ~.- 254 83 33~ 11TH AVE PROPOSED SITE LOCATION TH 36 29 t2'1 MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENT_E_R TRAFFIC IMDAc~T-STUDY Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. !11 Tmra Av~ c~ ~,t*: 5,'-,:. M~r,.,eopC.~. Mt. 5545: Parsons Trlnsportation Group LEGEND TRAFFIC SIGNAL 999 NEW TRIPS 999 PASS-BY TRIPS TOTAL TRIPS (NEW AND PASS-BY) NOTE, VOLUMES IN PARENTHESIS REPRESENT REDUCTIONS FOR PASS-BY TRAFFIC. SATURDAY PEAK HOUR SITE GENERATED TRAFFIC Figure 8 46 108 173 '~tr 155 1'76 229 33? 11TH AVE 92 443 2 66 ~' 366 405 102 127 PROPOSED SITE LOCAT]ON I ~,,, --- _~. / %~ TH 36 m ~-~ egg P.M. PEAK HOUR (4,30-5,30 P.M.) 99~ SATURDAY PEAK HOUR {12,00-1,00 P.M) MAPLEWOOD RETAIL CENTER TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY Barton-Aschman Associates, Inc. ~'I 1~,,~ A*r ': :,wte ~0 M~nneopG.5 MN Parsons Tr-nsportation Group 47 POST-DEVELOPMENT PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC VOLUMES Figure 9 ~ 3SOCIATES LTD. Attachment 10 922 Mainstreet Hopkins, Mn. 55343 (612) 933-0972 fax: (612) 933-1153 J MEMORANDUM DATE: TO: FROM: RE: October 14, 1994 Trip Cremation Volumes A comparison of trip generation volumes has been made between, a.) the proposed development land uses used on the "Site Traffic Impact Report", and, b.) the revised land uses currently being considered. Th~ land us~ assumption and trip generation volumes of each somario are shown in the attached two tables. The first table is Table 1 of the #Site Traffic Impact Report~. The traffic analysis oftbe traffic study was based on thc trip generation numbers of Table 1. The second table shows the trip generation oftbe revised dev¢lopment plan (as of October 13, 1994). The revised development plan shows reductions in trip generation volumes as follows: · 10.3% less on a typical weekday · 7.2% less during the a.m. peak hour · 3.1% less during the p.m. peak hour · 3.6% less during the Saturday peak hour During no time period did the revised development plan show increased trip generation volumes when compared to the original development plan. R can be concluded from this comparison that the conclusions and mx~x~ndatious of the "Site Traffic Impact Report" would not be changed as a result of the revised development plan. Similarly, the revised developme~ plans should not alter the Indirect Source Permit Apphcation. · Civil Engineering ,Transportation · Infrastructure Redevelopment · Landscape Architecture · Construction Management 48 lei"__ 5O E,:_"T-2E:-Ig'_~4 15:04 FF'IZIH F'Lt:: A'._--;'-_-,[I,_- lATE':., .LTD .... TO Attachment l 1 51 0CT*--~:~:-1994 1~: 04 Ft:tOH I:;tLl; A,_R'_--,O,E IATE::... LTD.... TO Attachment 12 Ramsey-Washington Metro 1902 East COunty Road B Maplewood, MN S$109 (612).777-3665 Ken Haider Ken Roberts City of Maplewood FROM: Cliff Aichinger, Administrator Mark Kroger & Associates - Maplewood Retail Proposal on White Bear Avenue between Hwy. 36 and Gervais Avenue The Watershed District staff and Sherri Buss, Coordinator of the Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Project, have reviewed this proposal and have a number of comments. The primary Watershed District comment relates to the runoff and discharge from the project. Our primary concern is that the area was planned for residential development and is now proposed as commercial. The discharge from the site would have to be limited to the residential runoff co-efficient. The sedimentation and storage basin provided in the northeast corner of the site is intended, as explained by the project engineer, to provide for the detention of runoff. We need to see the computations for the design of this pond prior to granting approval of the project. The other Watershed District concerns would relate to construction site erosion and sediment control. Since this site would require substantial grading, the District would require at least one temporary sediment basin to contain runoff prior to stabilization of the site. The proposer will be required to submit an erosion and sediment control plan consistent with the Ramsey County Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook. We also reviewed this project against the recommendations included within the Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Project report. This report includes a number of recommendations for existing and future development relating to enhancing habitat and encouraging infiltration of stormwater. This project presents a good opportunity to incorporate features to infiltrate stormwater runoff rather than pipe all runoff and discharge it to other surface waters. The other recommendation of the report is to minimize paved surface parking areas. We would encourage the city to consider phasing the development of parking and keeping some green space until it is demonstrated the parking is absolutely required for the proposed commercial establishments. In review of the plans we made a number of notations on the plan sheets regarding the project. I will summarize these comments in the numbered items below: The median areas along access road should be graded lower than the parking areas to act as collection areas for storm water. The parking areas would have to be graded to direct to these areas. A catch basin could be provided within the green areas and raised above the normal ground elevation. This would allow for some storage of small storm events and access to the stormwater system during larger events. The potential design for this type of a facility could be provided at a future time. 54 The small islands at the ends of parking isles are very ineffective at providing green space and suitable environments for trees. We would recommend that a number of these islands be consolidated to provide larger green areas and opportunities for dividing the larger expanse of open asphalt within the development. These could be considered for future parking if the need is demonstrated. Route rooftop drainage to infiltration devices, trenches, or pits adjacent to the buildings rather than routing to stormsewer inlets. The rooftops of these buildings are large impervious surfaces and will result in a substantial amount of runoff in peak storm events. These flat topped areas are generally outer to several controlled overflow points at which they could be directed to some infiltration basins. Since this is clean runoff, there should be no concern for potential groundwater contaminants. These infiltration areas would be connected to the stormsewer system for large storm events. The large slope on the east side of the project area should be planted in native grasses and oaks. This would be an attempt to restore the type of native plant materials that existed in the area prior to development and should thrive in this area and be low maintenance. I would strongly encourage the planting of trees and vegetation that would not require active management, mowing, or fertilizing. The sedimentation and storage basin provided at the northeast comer of the site should be shaped and graded in such way to try to reduce its manmade appearance. Some varying shape of the side slopes and steepness of the slope to the south of the pond could go a long way to making the pond .appear more natural. The pond should also be shaped to provide for emergent vegetatmn as well as open water. The sidewalk indicated along the access drive between the two large commercial buildings should be eliminated in favor of additional green area and potential infiltration area for the parking lots. Thegreen areas along the access drive should be enlarged to provide for additional green space to allow for some native plantings and infiltration beds. These larger areas would also provide more space for tree root systems. We encourage the use of native plant materials; e.g., wild flowers, grasses and native trees to assure some chance of success of this vegetation and reduce maintenance needs. We recommend that the small islands provided, along the ends of the parking aisles for both commercial buildings, be enlarged to encompass four additional parking spaces,as an interim measure, until the need for additional parking is shown. These larger green areas would provide more space for tree survival and for shrub layer plant materials. The area on the southwest comer of site adjacent to the Highway 36 exit should be an enlarged open space and green area until the need for that parking is illustrated. Many of the plant species shown on the planting schedule are not native plants and several do not survive well in confined growing areas and elevated temperatures (due to the asphalt parking lots). The plant species list shown be reviewed by a landscape ecologist to identify species that are more likely to survive and those that would provide better survival rates in this type of habitat. The District would like to encourage the Maplewood Design Review Board to consider the comments of the Phalen Watershed Steering Committee and its recommendations in the report. Sherri Buss and I would be glad to meet with the Design Review Board and illustrate some of the concepts that we are proposing. 5S We feel that this is a unique opportunity to incorporate some of these recommendations into a new project and then monitor how well they function. Of particular concern is the need to reduce stormwater runoff and increase water quality. We feel these factors are key and speak to the need to begin to incorporate infiltration areas into these intense commercial developments. I hope the city will see this as an opportunity to test these concepts and try to work with this developer to implement these ideas and monitor their success. I believe we can incorporate some of these ideas without additional cost to the developer. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this significant development. If you have any questions regarding my comments, please feel free to give me a call. 56 Attachment 13 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: PROJECT: DATE: Ken Roberts, Associate Planner Fran Kiesling, Intern Landscaping Plan Maplewood Retail Addition October 21, 1994 The proposed changes in the planting plan come from two sources. First, are the physical site conditions that originate from the proposed design for the commercial space (with its accompanying areas of impervious surfaces.) These physical conditions create a set of stresses to which the vegetation must respond or die. Generally, impervious surfaces, such as asphalt and concrete, create drought-like conditions and elevated temperatures for any vegetation planted within its boundaries or adjacent to its edges. The second source of the proposed changes is the fact that the Phalen Project Steering Committee would like to apply its recommendations to a development site. One such recommendation that applies to this project is to use native species in plantings, wherever possible; that is, to plant trees and shrubs that have historically evolved in this area of Minnesota. Having responded over time to this area's climatic conditions, native species are thought to be better able to withstand the extremes of temperature and rainfall and to survive local insect and disease pests. Further, many landscape ecologists think that it is better to obtain local species from area nurseries because the genetic characteristics of local plant materials are better suited to survive local conditions than are plants obtained from nurseries in other states. Plants from other climates may not be hardy in the southern part of Minnesota. Another Phalen Project recommendation applicable here is the desire to protect vegetation resources by planting them in ways that are ecologically sound, thus prolonging their lives. A relevant example in this design would be to plant trees and shrubs in clusters rather than leaving them isolated in asphalt islands. Clustering has proven to increase the chances that urban trees will survive. The temperatures are lower and individual specimens have improved access to water and nutrients. A second example would be to use vegetation in such a way as to create what landscape ecologists call an understory, or shrub layer. A stand of vegetation would exist between the grass and full-grown trees. An understory layer enhances wildlife habitat and is visually pleasing. Therefore, some general comments on trees, shrubs, and herbaceous materials that can survive the design conditions (depending of course on where they are located on the site), and are generally available, locally or regionally, are in order. From the perspective of native species and area climatic conditions, our area is too far south to support most species of pine. People like to see pines in the landscape, but many that are commonly used in landscape plantings experience significant stress from Minnesota extremes in moisture and temperature and die in a relatively short time. Most of the junipers listed will perform acceptably. And, Pinus resinosa, the Norway or Red Pine often does well in the southern portions of Minnesota because it is drought tolerant. Several species of maple would perform well in southern Minnesota. The Norway Maple is a commonly used urban tree, but it is not particularly tolerant of moisture or drought excesses. 57 Acer saccarinum, Silver Maple, is native, available, and is both moisture and drought tolerant. Similarly, Populus deltoides, Cottonwood, is native and tolerant of both moisture and drought stresses. Sugar Maple, Acer saccamm, is native to this area of Minnesota and is available. It is not drought tolerant and will not survive being planted where its roots experience compaction, so it will not perform well in parking lots nor immediately adjacent to them. However, it can be planted on the grassy level spots. Acer mbrum, the Red Maple, is not known to be tolerant of drought conditions and will not do well if it is isolated or surrounded by dry conditions. Acer negundo, Boxelder, is an underappreciated native tree. It is spectacularly tolerant of wide- ranging conditions. When planted with care and properly maintained, it can look quite attractive. Several species of oak are native to this area and are available. Species such as bur oak, northern pin oak, and red oak are all drought tolerant, offer fall color and interesting visual texture, and would perform well on those site locations that are hillsides. However, they do not perform well in parking lots because they do not respond well to compaction around their roots. Basswood, Aspen, Cottonwood, Weeping Willow, and River Birch perform well in moister areas. River Birch is also drought tolerant, but White Birch is susceptible to insect predation and thus does not perform well here. The Common Hackberry and the Green Ash tree are commonly used urban trees. Both are drought as well as moisture tolerant and both perform well around impervious surfaces. Populus alba, the White Poplar, is present in the area and is both moisture and drought tolerant. Robinia pseudoacacia, the Black Locust, is native to this area and is tolerant of drought conditions. These trees offer a microcosm of southern Minnesota forests and would add variety to the visual landscape. . Small trees and native shrubs can be used to create a shrub understory that grows under the canopy trees. Examples of such vegetation are Malus sp., especially Malus 'Red Splendor' and Malus 'Prairie Fire', crab apple trees. In addition to these colorful trees, other effective shrub selections would be Red-Osier and Grey Twig Dogwood (Comus), members of the Alder family (Alnus sp.), Rhus glabra or Smooth Sumac, Elderberry (Sambucus), Current (Ribes), and Rosa arkansana or Wild Prairie Rose. Many members of the Viburnum family are native to Minnesota and can be successfully used in the same locations that Acer ginnala (Amur Maple) is currently used. The Amur Maple is very versatile, but is not native. To many landscape ecologists this tree is approaching the level of an invasive species. Chokecherry, Service- or Juneberry, and American Red Raspberry are examples of tolerant, colorful native shrubs that also supply food for birds. Numerous native grasses and herbaceous plants are available that complement each of the woody species described in this brief report. Examples of these species have been made available to the landscape architects working on this retail addition. The most effective stewards for the maintenance of local, native species are the residents who live in that place. No one else is in as good a position to preserve biodiversity and to maintain local plant and animal communities. These recommendations for the use of native species benefit the landscape by extending area ecosystems, yet require a minimum of effort to implement. 58 Attachment 14 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: DATE: Geoff Olson Fran Kieslin~ Further Recommendations on the Maplewood Retail Addition 11-01-94 After thinking more about the parking lot planting design concerns, I have the following comments to offer: For the absolute health of the trees (that is, to maximize their opportunities to remain healthy and survive over time), clustering (as described in my comments of to you of 10-25-94) is the planting method that would be employed. The rationale is that clustering creates the most favorable microclimate for the vegetation. Planted in organically shaped groups, the species planted would have more nutrients, more infiltration of water (especially where the area was slightly depressed rather than being bermed), lowered ambient temperatures, and improved wind protection. This commercial enterprise can play a role in the enhancement of Maplewood's urban forest through improvement of habitat. Specifically, clustering, the use of a shrub layer to provide the vertical structure needed by wildlife (most particularly birds), and the use of native species are three strategies that, if used, can connect the proposed commercial property to the other neighborhoods around it. Further, the suggested changes to the planting design are attempts to be responsive to the recommendations of the Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Comprehensive Natural Resources Plan (April 1994): Goal 4 states, in part, that a connected system of "green corridors" should be developed that link wetlands, creeks, lakes, parks, and natural areas of the watershed to protect natural resources and to improve the health and diversity of those natural resources. Realistically, this is a commercial property design, but within the limits imposed by such a design, even a commercial property can be planted in such a way that larger ecosystem functioning is improved. Goal 5: outlines the need for restoration and expansion of the urban forest cover and the need to diversify plant communities, in part, to enhance energy 59 conservation and to increase the natural biological diversity throughout the watershed. If one of the goals of the original design was to reduce the "urban heat island effect" and improve overall energy conservation on the site, then the trees need to be planted in a more linear shape as opposed to a more circular shape because the straighter shapes will provide maximum shade and the greatest amount of temperature reduction. But, a cluster or grouped planting does not have to be round or even have an "amoeba" shape (although the landscape ecology literature points out that circular is better than linear, if the goal is increasing wildlife habitat). In this design the idea of clustering the trees and shrubs can be achieved using an oblong or elliptical shape, E[.g.Y.J.d.~[ that the width is sufficient. Specifically, the planting area should be as wide as space allows, and 10 - 15 feet in width is the minimum effective range. Effective plantings in this area could take one of two routes. A double row of native trees with a three to four foot shrub layer growing underneath the trees could be planted. Native flood plain species are effectively used in this type of design, especially if these areas will be slightly depressed in order to catch more storm water runoff. Ash, hackberry, and basswood are species that would do well in such a planting. Alternatively, aspen can be cluster planted on the space. Think about how trees grow in the wild. They do not grow 20 feet apart, in a row. They grow in groups or clusters precisely because their biological welfare is enhanced. Using either of these approaches, natural biological diversity can be maximized while simultaneously reducing the ambient temperature problems in the parking lot. I stand by my species recommendations. In fact, the latest landscape ecology thinking is to not plant such species as Norway maple (Acer platanoides) and Amur maple (Acer ginnala) because they are not native and are becoming invasive. Their seed is dispersed into natural areas where they often out- compete native species for space and nutrients. Lastly, Goal 6 of the Phalen Project's comprehensive resources plan highlights the need to "increase citizen understanding of the effects that management of individual yards, public and private lands, streets, and infrastructure have on natural resource quality." By combining project goals with those of the developer, the Maplewood Retail Addition can demonstrate to citizens that commercial property can display diverse natural resources used in ecologically sound ways as well as land areas more traditionally thought of as places that protect natural resources, such as parks. 6O DATE: TO: FROM: RE: Attachment October 25, 1994 Michael McGuire, City Manager Geoff Olson, Community Development Director City of Maplewood, Minnesota The Undersigned Residents MAPLEWOOD RETAIL DEVELOPMENT NORTHEAST CORNER - HIGHWAY 36 & WHITE BEAR AVENUE We, the undersigned residents and property owners in Maplewood, want to urge you to favorably consider and approve the retail development proposal before you for the site bounded by Highway 36, White Bear Avenue, Eleventh Avenue and Ariel Street. We have entered into a purchase agreement with the redeveloper. As this'purchase agreement has a defined timeframe within which the redeveloper must receive all approvals and close on the purchase of our property, we ask that you proceed as quickly as possible in your review and acceptance of the redevelopment plan. 61 Attachment 16 September 18, 1994 TO: Kenneth Roberts Planner, City of Maplewood FROM: Germaine Smith Jeanne McPhee RE: Maplewood Retail Addition Project We have great concerns regarding the building on the property on the southwest corner of Ariel & Eleveth Streets, the Maplewood Retail Addition. Our concerns are the same as we stated in our objection to the proposal to build on the northwest corner of Ariel & Eleventh. 1. Safety is the Number one issue. Increased traffic & need for security need to be addressed. 2. Under no circumstances should both parcels of land (northwest and southwest corners of Ariel & Eleventh Street) be developed at the same time. Presently your office has proposals for both sites. The confusion, the unsafe conditions during construction, the unsafe congestion of new vehicles in this area, and the resulting frustration would be disasterous if the City of Maplewood approves both sites at the same time. As homeowners, ~ prefer development on the area between Highway 36 and Eleventh Street. Jeanne McPhee Germaine Smith 62 To: Kenneth Roberts 9-21-94 Attachment 1 7 I would like to see both the north side of llth between White Bear Ave. and Ariel and the south side to Hwy 36 coordinated into an overall plan. I would like to see some single family homes and owned townhomes with some type of paths and park type buffer between themAany commercial development. The site plan attached seems too overwhelming and enviromentally unsound. The noise and pollution levels in this area should be studied along with the traffic patterns. Although I have a heavily wooded lot that borders llth, I cannot use my deck on th~ rear of my hous~ because of the high noise levels. Noise poi!uric.' should be a concern. I am not against progress and realize that some of this area will be commercial ...... but, please see that it is a well thought out plan ..... this does not look like the one. 63 KELLER PROPERTIES. INC. Attachment 18 SINCE 1936 1895 EAST COUNTY ROAD E. ST. PAUL. MN 55110 (612) 777-0120 FAX (612) 777-6426 September 23, 1994 Community Development Department City of Maplewood 1830 East County Road B Maplewood, MN 55109 I am writing to express Crestwood Townhomes' concerns over the proposed development between White Bear Avenue and Ariel Street between Highway 36 and llth Street. The Homeowners Association is concerned about several issues: 1. There is concern over the increased traffic that would occur on Ariel and llth Street. Both of these streets are very busy and quite dangerous already. If the development were to occur, Crestwood would very much like to see these safety issues fully addressed. 2. Secondly, the aesthetics of the multifamily homes that would be closest to the Crestwood Development is very important. The Association feels this is important to preserving property values. Crestwood will need to have input into the plans pertaining to landscaping and drive entrances. 3. Accessing streets during rush hour traffic is a problem both at llth and Ariel and Crestwood Drive and llth. The homeowners association would like to see the frontage road (Castle Drive) to Hwy 36 connect with Hwy 36 and / or White Bear Avenue. 4. It would have to be absolutely necessary for the zoning of the land along Ariel to be only residential / multifamily and not commercial. Overall, Crestwood is not in favor of the proposed development. The above issues are very important should you decide to approve the development. If you have any questions about Crestwood's concerns, please call me at 777-0120. Sincerely, , / Carl F. Keller, Jr. Property Manager 64 Realtors · Commercial Sales · Property Management & Development * Syndication Attachment 19 LAND USE PLAN CHANGE RESOLUTION WHEREAS, Marc Kruger applied for a change to the City's land use plan. This change is from LBC (limited business commercial), R-1 (single dwellings) and NC (neighborhood commercial) to BC (business commercial) and R-3M (medium density multiple dwellings). WHEREAS, this change applies to the property between White Bear Avenue and Ariel Street between Highway 36 and 1 lth Avenue in Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. WHEREAS, the history of this change is as follows: On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission held a public hearing. The City staff published a hearing notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The Planning Commission gave everyone at the hearing a chance to speak and present written statements. The Planning Commission recommended that the City Council the land use plan change. 2. On November 28, 1994, the City Council discussed the land use plan change. They considered reports and recommendations from the Planning Commission and City staff. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approve the above-described change for the following reasons: 1. The developer is proposing to develop this site for commercial uses. With the traffic improvements proposed, the streets will have sufficient vehicular capacity to handle the traffic from this development. The proposed commercial development would be compatible with the nearby land uses on White Bear and 1 lth Avenues. The proposed commercial development would be more compatible with traffic and conditions on White Bear and 1 lth Avenues than the existing homes. The proposed R-3M classification would be compatible with the existing multiple dwellings east of Ariel Street. 6. The existing property owners are in favor. The Maplewood City Council adopted this resolution on , 1994. 65 Attachment 20 RESOLUTION: ZONING MAP CHANGE WHEREAS, Marc Kruger, representing RLK Associates, applied for a change in the zoning map from F (farm residential), R-1 (single dwellings) and NC (neighborhood commercial) to BC (business commercial) and R-3 (multiple dwellings). WHEREAS, this change applies to the property between White Bear Avenue and Ariel Street between Highway 36 and 11th Avenue in Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. The legal descriptions are: The South 1/8 of the North 8/10 of the Somhwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, except the East 287.98 thereof', subject to White Bear Avenue, and That part of the South 1/7 of the North 7/10 of the Southwest quarter of the Southeast quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, lying Easterly of White Bear Avenue, according to the United States Government Survey thereof, except the Easterly 287.98 feet thereof and subject to the right of the State of Minnesota in the Westerly .03 acres more or less thereof, and All that part of the South 1/6 of the North 6/10 lying East of White Bear Avenue of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 21, Range 22, and That part of the South 1/3 of the North 3/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22 Easterly of White Bear Avenue, and South 1/10 of North 4/10 of that part of the Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4 of Northwest 1/4 Easterly of White Bear Avenue in Section 11, Township 29, Kange 22, and All that part of the South 1/5 of the North 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, lying East of the center line of White Bear Avenue; excepting therefrom the said portion thereof taken for White Bear Avenue, and The East 1/2 of the North 1/10 and the East 1/2 of the South 1/2 of the North 1/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22; AND North 1/5 of West 1/2 of Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4 of Northwest 1/4 Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, excepting that part lying west of White Bear Avenue, and except the North 12.5 feet, and The West 77.98 feet of the East 287.98 feet of the South 1/4 of the North 4/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22; AND that part of the South 1/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of 66 Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, lying Easterly original White Bear Avenue, except the Westerly 300 feet thereof, and except the East 210 feet thereof; subject to the rights of the public in highway (Eighth Avenue) over the Southerly 33 thereof, and The West 300 feet of the North 3/4 of the South 1/5 lying East of White Bear Avenue, except road commonly known as Eighth Avenue NW, of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, and The West 85 feet of the East 210 feet of the South 4/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, and The East 210 feet, except the West 85 feet thereof, of the following: The South 1/7 of the North 7/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4, Easterly of White Bear Avenue, Section 11, Township 29, Range 22 West; AND the North 3/4 of the South 1/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4, Section 11, Township 29, Range 22 West lying easterly of original White Bear Avenue, excepting the Westerly 300 feet thereof, AND the East 287.98 feet of the South 1/8 of the North 8/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, and The Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, and The North 100 feet of Lot 1; the North 100 feet of Lot 2; all in Castle Acres, and Lot I except the North 100 feet thereof, Lot 2 except the North 100 feet thereof, all in Castle Acres, and Lots 3, 4 and 5, Castle Acres, and Lot 6, except the North 264 feet, Castle Acres, and The North two hundred sixty-four (N.264) feet of Lot six (6), Castle Acres, according to the plat thereof filed of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles within and for said County, and Lot 7 except the North 310 feet thereof, Castle Acres, and The North 310 feet of Lot 7, Castle Acres, and The South 1/2 of Lot 8, Castle Acres, and The North one-half (N. 1/2) of Lot Eight (8), Castle Acres, according to the plat thereof filed or record in the office of the Registrar of Titles within and for said County, and {57 The South Three Hundred Ninety-four (S.394) feet of Lot Nine (9), Castle Acres, according to the plat thereof filed of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles within and for said County, and Lot 10 except the Northerly 100 feet thereof, Castle Acres, and Lot 11 except the Easterly 50 feet thereof, Castle Acres, and The Northerly 100 feet of Lot 10; the Easterly 50 feet of Lot 11; all in Castle Acres, and Lot Twelve (12), Castle Acres, according to the plat thereof flied for record in the office of the Registrar of Titles within and for said County, and Lot 13, Castle Acres, and Lot 14, Castle Acres, and All that part of the two following-described tracts: Tract 1. Lot 15 except the East 125 feet; Tract 2. Lot 16 except the East 125 feet; which lies Northeasterly of the following-described line: Beginning at a point on the north line of said Lot 15, distant 290 feet West of the Northeast comer of the said Lot, thence running Southeasterly to a point on the East line of the second above-described tract, distant 50 feet South of the Northeast comer thereof and there terminating; all in Castle Acres, and The East 125 feet of Lots 15 and 16, Castle Acres, subject to that portion, if any, acquired by the State of Minnesota for Highway purposes, and WHEREAS, the history of this change is as follows: 1. On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council the change. 2. On November 28, 1994, the City Council held a public hearing. The City staff published a notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The Council gave everyone at the hearing an opportunity to speak and present written statements. The Council also considered reports and recommendations from the City staff and Planning Commission. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approve the above-described change in the zoning map for the following reasons: 1. The proposed change is consistent with the spirit, purpose and intent of the zoning code. 68 2. The proposed change will not substantially injure or detract from the use of neighboring property or from the character of the neighborhood, and that the use of the property adjacent to the area included in the proposed change or plan is adequately safeguarded. 3. The proposed change will serve the best interests and conveniences of the community, where applicable, and the public welfare. 4. The proposed change would have no negative effect upon the logical, efficient, and economical extension of public services and facilities, such as public water, sewers, police and fire protection and schools. The Maplewood City Council adopted this resolution on ,1994. 69 Attachment 21 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, Marc Kruger, Esq., applied for a conditional use permit to have exterior storage, display, sale or distribution of goods or materials in the BC (business commercial) zoning district. WHEREAS, this permit applies to the garden center of the home care store in the Maplewood Retail Addition on White Bear Avenue between Highway 36 and 1 lth Avenue. The legal description is: Lot 2, Block One, Maplewood Retail Addition. WHEREAS, the history of this conditional use permit is as follows: 1. On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council this permit. 2. On November 28, 1994, the City Council held a public heating. The City staff published a notice in the paper and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The Council gave everyone at the heating a chance to speak and present written statements. The Council also considered reports and recommendations of the City staff and Planning Commission. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approve the above-described conditional use permit, because: The use would be located, designed, maintained, constructed and operated to be in conformity with the City's Comprehensive Plan and Code of Ordinances. 2. The use would not change the existing or planned character of the surrounding area. 3. The use would not depreciate property values. The use would not involve any activity, process, materials, equipment or methods of operation that would be dangerous, hazardous, detrimental, disturbing or cause a nuisance to any person or property, because of excessive noise, glare, smoke, dust, odor, fumes, water or air pollution, drainage, water mn-off, vibration, general unsightliness, electrical interference or other nuisances. 5. The use would generate only minimal vehicular traffic on local streets and would not create traffic congestion or unsafe access on existing or proposed streets. 6. The use would be served by adequate public facilities and services, including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, water and sewer systems, schools and parks. 70 7. The use would not create excessive additional costs for public facilities or services. 8. The use would maximize the preservation of and incorporate the site's natural and scenic features into the development design. 9. The use would cause minimal adverse environmental effects. Approval is subject to the following conditions: 1. All construction shall follow the site plan that the City stamped October 19, 1994. The Director of Community Development may approve minor changes. 2. The store shall use the outside storage and display within one year of the Council's approval or the permit shall end. The council may extend this deadline for one year. 3. The City Council shall review this permit in one year. The Maplewood City Council adopted this resolution on ,1994. Attachment 22 VACATION RESOLUTION WHEREAS, Marc Kruger, representing RLK Associates, applied for the vacation of the following described streets: 1. That part of Gervais Avenue between the east right-of-way line of White Bear Avenue and the west right-of-way line of Ariel Street in Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. 2. Castle Avenue south from Gervais Avenue to the Highway 36 right-of-way in Section l 1, Township 29, Range 22. WHEREAS, the history of these vacations is as follows: 1. On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council these vacations. On November 28, 1994, the City Council held a public heating. The City staff.published a notice in the Maplewood Review and sent a notice to the abutting property owners. The Council gave everyone at the heating a chance to speak and present written statements. The Council also considered reports and recommendations from the City staff and Planning Commission. WHEREAS, after the City approves this vacation, public interest in the property will go to the following abutting properties: 1. Lots 1-11 of Castle Acres 2. 1937 Gervais Avenue East The West 77.98 feet of the East 287.98 feet of the South 1/4 of the North 4/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22; AND that part of the South 1/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22, lying Easterly original White Bear Avenue, except the Westerly 300 feet thereof, and except the East 210 feet thereof; subject to the tights of the public in highway (Eighth Avenue) over the Southerly 33 thereof. 3. NE Comer of WBA and Gervais The West 300 feet of the North 3/4 of the South 1/5 lying East of White Bear Avenue, except road commonly known as Eighth Avenue NW, of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. 72 4. 1945 Gervais Avenue East The West 85 feet of the East 210 feet of the South 4/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. 5. 1955 Gervais Avenue East The East 210 feet, except the West 85 feet thereof, of the following: The South 1/7 of the North 7/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4, Easterly of White Bear Avenue, Section 11, Township 29, Range 22 West; AND the North 3/4 of the South 1/5 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4, Section 11, Township 29, Range 22 West lying easterly of original White Bear Avenue, excepting the Westerly 300 feet thereof; AND the East 287.98 feet of the South 1/8 of the North 8/10 of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. 6. 1971 Gervais Avenue East The Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. 7. The north 30 feet of Block One, Dearborn Park NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approve the above-described vacations for the following reasons: 1. It is in the public interest. 2. The proposed development will provide its own access to White Bear and 1 lth Avenues. 3. The adjacent properties have street access. The developer shall record the resolution with the final plat. The City shall not release the resolution until the City has approved the final plat. The Maplewood City Council adopted this resolution on ,1994. 73 Attachment 23 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF CITY PROPERTY WHEREAS, Marc Kruger, representing RLK Associates, requested that the City Council declare some property in Maplewood owned by the City as excess and authorize it for sale. WHEREAS, the legal description of this property is the north 30 feet of Block One, Dearborn Park in Section 11, Township 29, Range 22. (PIN 11-29-22-31-0018) WHEREAS, the history of this request is as follows: 1. On November 7, 1994, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council declare this property as excess and authorize it for sale. 2. On November 28, 1994, the City Council considered this request. The City staff published a notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the abutting property owners. The Council gave everyone at the meeting a chance to speak and present written statements. The Council also considered reports and recommendations from the City staff and Planning Commission. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council declare the above-described property as excess property and authorize it's sale. The Maplewood City Council adopted this resolution on ,1994. 74