2A, Presbyterian Homes & Library Proposal

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The goal is to eliminate the need for parking on Lake Johanna Boulevard. The service entrance would remain off Sandeen Road where is currently is located. Service deliveries would be expected to decline slightly as Independent Sr. Apartments utilize fewer supplies and services than Assisted Living Suites. The proposed plan is carefully planned for a separation of parking creating more efficient traffic flows. The main entrance to campus moves toward the south making the grades more gradual as traffic enters the site. Upon entry traffic would be directed to the left to Care Center and Memory Care parking or to the right to the Library, Senior Apartments and Assisted Living which are accessed through the main entry. Librar. Prominently located at the main entry is the Ramsey County Arden Hills Library Branch. It is visible from the intersection of County Road D and Lake Johanna Boulevard and from the main entrance where monument signs would include a strong Library presence. Patrons would enter the Library through a vestibule in the main entry which allows the Library to choose their hours of operation separate from the PHS campus hours. Across the vestibule is a conservatory that will be accessible by patrons for reading and relaxing during open hours. The Library director provided PHS program needs for planning purposes which we have been able to incorporate into the proposed plan. They included a separate entrance, a prominent location, a drive-thru book drop, a truck delivery entrance, approximately 6000 square feet of library (6600 are planned), access to adjoining rental spaces for meetings,presentations and parties, (1500 square feet of space that can be divided into three rooms). The Library indicated that access to a cafe/coffee shop is desired. The plan incorporates access for Library patrons to the cafe that we would normally plan into our Town Center. It is anticipated that this will be a popular feature for the new Library. PHS is pleased to incorporate the Library into a prominent space on campus as we believe there is mutual benefit in pairing the Library on campus. It is an amenity of which many residents will become patrons and volunteers. Outdoor Environment: Lakeshore Setback PHS identified as an important goal to increase the setback from Lake Johanna. The current building is set back from the lake 100 feet; City ordinance requires 50 feet. The proposed building configuration allows a greater setback from the lake. The north end of the crescent is 135 feet at the closest point. The south/east end of the crescent is 280 feet set back and the middle of the building sits 400 feet back from the lakeshore. These increased setbacks allow more protection for the lakeshore and increased green space between the lake and building improving views to and from the lake. Shoreline Buffer Currently the edge along the lakeshore has a fairly steep grade to the lake. This grade would be maintained and this edge left as a natural buffer for the shoreline which also maintains a more natural character to the shoreline.