CCP 01-22-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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r Memo to City Council Planning Case #01-32: Guidant Concept PUD January 15, 2002 Page 2 of 4 e Prior to investing a significant amount of time and resourccs into submitting a formal master and final PUD request, Guidant is requesting a concept plan review to solicit comments from the Planning Commission and City Council regarding future development of the property. A concept plan review allows an applicant to solicit non- binding comments from the Planning Commission and City Council prior to a full submission of materials. If the applicant wishes to proceed with the project outlined in the attached plan set, it would be necessary for them to submit application for a master and final planned unit development. Guidant's application is based on a desire to have a long term "master" plan in place for the property and to accommodate anticipated business and employee growth on site. The applicant has provided a packet of materials to support the Planning Commission's evaluation of the concept PUD. This packet provides a variety of information and support materials including a site data summary, compliance with particular zoning requirements, and detailed building/parking information. Given the nature of the application and materials prepared by the applicant, a comprehensive analysis has not been provided in this memo. However, I would offer the following comments for the Commission's consideration: · On a fundamental level, this represents a significant intensification in land use from what currently exists. More specifically, the proposal contemplates a doubling of square footage and parking on the property. However, the plan maintains much of the landscaping and natural features of the property. · As the applicant's written statement indicates, the development will be phased over a twenty year period of time as business and employment growth are realized. tit · Given the increased volumes of traffic associated with full development of the property, both internal and external traffic circulation becomes a significant issue. It is anticipated that a traffic study will be a component of the applicant's Master Plan PUD submission. Fortunately, the property is in an advantageous position from a transportation perspective since it is currently serviced by three County Roads (County Road F, Lexington Avenue, and Hamline Avenue). These major arterials afford the property quick highway access to 1-694 and Highway 611Snelling Avenue. Copies of the concept plan were sent the Ramsey County Traffic Engineer for his revlCW. · The concept PUD contemplates vacating most of Fernwood Avenue and dedicating the private street on the north side of the property currently referred to as "Guidant Drive North." This would provide access to the existing properties and city park currently served by Fernwood. A small portion of Fernwood would remain to service Xcel Energy's electrical substation --