CCP 07-26-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - JULY 7, 1999 1m fD' I~) fS lr tIl) l~ I"" I: ti 5 . Ms. Randall stated that the concern for the applicant with this proposal was not being able to allow traffic in and out of the parking lot during evening hours when the gate would be closed. Commissioner Galatowitsch asked if the proposed gate at the east entrance would match the west entrance. Ms. Randall stated that the gates would not be the same. She presented the Planning Commission with a rendering of the east gate and indicated that the east gate would be more functional than decorative. Commissioner Galatowitsch asked if the sign at the east entrance would be changed. Ms. Randall stated that the applicant would not be modifying the sign, they would only be relocating the gate. Chair Erickson stated that, ultimately, his final determination lies with the Minnesota Department of Transportation's comfort level with the fact that there are deceleration and acceleration lanes to and from the location. He assumed that if the Minnesota Department of Transportation had any concerns with regard to safety, they would have raised these concerns by this time. Chair Erickson agreed that staffs recommended alternative for the east gate would improve the proposal, however, the grade drop would be an issue for the applicant. He felt that it would be a reasonable compromise ifthe applicant was willing to change the curve on the drive, as suggested by Mr. Kunkle, in order to maintain the required clearances. . Commissioner Sand concurred with Chair Erickson's comments. He indicated that if Bethel College was willing to hug the top of the elevation ofthe curb more than the road currently does, it would appear that the natural slope would accommodate moving the road enough to maintain the required 24- foot width. Commissioner Sand stated that he would be willing to vote in favor of the site plan for the east entrance ifthe applicant was able to ensure that they would maintain the 24 foot road width by moving the westbound portion of the road as close to the top of the slope as possible. Mr. Kunkle agreed with this requirement. He stated that there appears to be enough room to make this movement ofthe road. Commissioner Sand noted that the applicant would most likely have to move the existing guardrail. Commissioner Nelson asked if a Professional Engineer would be signing off on this proposal. Ms. Randall stated that staff could have this done. Commissioner Nelson asked ifthe Minnesota Department of Transportation would give final approval or denial ofthis proposal. Ms. Randall stated that, when the Minnesota Department of Transportation has concerns regarding a site plan, the City is informed of these concerns. When the Minnesota Department of Transportation does not have concerns, the City does not always hear from them. She noted that the Minnesota Department of Transportation has reviewed the site plan and has granted approval for a permit allowing the applicant to place the gate on MDOT property. . Mr. Brian Humpheries, Director of Physical Planning, Bethel College, noted that the Minnesota Department of Transportation had reviewed the site with the College and had taken measurements prior to approving the permit. Commissioner Sand moved, seconded by Commissioner Rye to recommend approval of Planning Case 99-10, Site Plan for the construction of the west entrance monument and