Planning Commission Agenda and Packet 2021 06 24

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Planning Commission Staff Report June 24, 2021 The residential use will continue to be a secondary use in the core area of Downtown, but will support economic activity and investment in the area. The building design is consistent with Design Handbook policies, including screening parking and creating an inviting pedestrian scale to Downtown. Surrounding development includes office, retail, restaurant and the public library, which are all compatible with residential uses. Staff finds the proposal meets this criterion. 3. That the use/development is adequate for internal efficiency of the proposal, considering the functions of residents, recreation, public access, safety and such factors including storm drainage facilities, sewage and water facilities, grades, dust control and such other factors directly related to public health and convenience; Public Works has reviewed the drainage plan and is coordinating the utility plans for the development and is in support of the proposal. The Fire District has also reviewed the plans and has no conflict with the proposal. Staff finds the proposal meets this criterion. 4. That external effects of the proposal are controlled, considering compatibility of land use; movement or congestion of traffic; services, including arrangement of signs and lighting devices as to prevent the occurrence of nuisances; landscaping and other similar features to prevent the littering or accumulation of trash, together with other factors deemed to effect public health, welfare, safety and convenience; External effects of the proposed residential use would be limited. Lighting plans meet the Design Handbook Standards. Use of the residences will integrate well with the surrounding, office, retail and restaurant uses in the vicinity. Staff finds the proposal meets this criterion. 5. That an adequate amount and proper location of pedestrian walks, malls and landscaped spaces to prevent pedestrian use of vehicular ways and parking spaces and to separate pedestrian walks, malls and public transportation loading places from general vehicular circulation facilities. The plans include a pedestrian way between 950 Spruce and the row homes to connect to the parking lot behind the buildings. The proposal meets Downtown parking standards with payment of fee in lieu for parking for 1-2 spaces, depending on final mix of office and residential uses at 950 Spruce. At tenant finish, staff will be able to verify final floor plans to confirm compliance with parking standards. Vehicular access to the property would be from the alley, which is preferred in Downtown over having driveway access midblock. Staff finds the proposal meets this criterion. 16 18