07-15-2002 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday,July 15,2002 6:30 o'clock p.m. (#02-2789 DAHLSTROM DEVELOPMENT, Continued) the two unit buildings would be approximately 50-60 ft wide.An additional drawing reflecting site amenities with trails and sidewalks and an expanded linear park was displayed as well.Based on trip calculations,Johnston pointed out that the applicant felt 110 trips daily did not warrant the need for sidewalks on the cul-de-sacs, as recommended by the planning consultant. They have proposed an open green space area with gathering spots with benches, a gazebo over a water feature, and water treatment which flows through a series of rain gardens north and south.He believed the development would not necessarily warrant a tot lot. Ms.Krall,Landform Architect,pointed out that additional green buffer space exists than is reflected in the display boards, the boards were intended to feature the larger open space and linear park system. Johnston stated that an entrance feature with a waterfall and coordinating green space for a bus stop with benches across the street was being proposed. With regard to the numbers, Johnston pointed out that public green space makes up 2 acres, the private open space equates to approximately 2.2 acres, with trails comprising another 1-2 acres, 13.7 acres or 33% of the land area is wetland, all totaled equates to 45% open space, and 55% developable land area. Johnston stated that the applicant was not at all concerned with the developable land parcels south of the development and with the City's support, they would work out the road scenario with MnDOT. Gaffron asked, if the development was forced to move,whether the applicant had an alternate plan or were prepared to lose the half circle entrance. Johnston demonstrated on a separate plan, that without the road change the development would likely lose 8 townhomes, however, it would still have an entry marked by some feature. He stated that he would be willing to take questions, but wanted to point out several elements to the Commission before he began. First, the proposed road widths were admittedly more narrow than the City had suggested, simply because the developer felt the 28' standard was too wide. He asked if a middle ground could be found. Johnston stated that they would be willing to landscape a parkway,but would like to see it 28' wide to handle the traffic volume,whereas the roads within the project are shown at 20',which meets fire code. He added that, studies have shown,narrow roads tend to keep speeds down. Curb and gutter were also proposed for all streets. There were no public comments. Smith stated that the Commission had been presented with two scenarios, along with 8 punchlist items to discuss,starting first with item 5,the proposed housing types,site layout,functionality,etc., continuing to item 7, the development of Kelley Parkway. Smith questioned if the PAGE 21 of 36