10-11-2018 Planning Commission Packet

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STAFF REPORT TO: Planning Commission Members FROM: Jessica Jagoe, Associate Planner DATE: October 3, 2018 RE: 2350 Rice Street – Architectural Review and Front Yard Setback Variance Aldi, Inc. at 2350 Rice Street is seeking approval of a variance for a reduced front yard setback on the west property line as well as architectural review of the exterior enhancements that are being completed as part of the proposed 1,617 square foot building expansion. The property is zoned B-3, General Business. The existing building was constructed in 2003 and is 16,370 square feet. The proposed addition is part of Aldi’s efforts to “refresh” the building to create a more modern shopping experience for their customers. The expansion will create additional internal space between shelving, checkout lanes, and an indoor cart area. Beyond the building upgrades, the applicant has indicated that they will be installing all new mechanical and lighting within the building, plus adding matching brick to the existing pylon sign pole to enhance the overall aesthetics. Architectural Review The proposed 1,617 square foot building expansion will include enhancements to the entrance on the southwest corner of the building and along the west elevation. The applicant is proposing that the building façade on the north, east, and 2/3’s of the south elevations would remain the same. The new entrance design will feature a flat roof line with metal banding on the top edge of the wall. The new parapet has a more enhanced distinction in varying roof lines. The refreshed exterior incorporates a complement of buildings materials such as metal, brick, and fiber cement panels that will give an appearance of cedar panels. All of the tones and colors are consistent between brick and metal materials used. Lastly, additional windows have been added to west elevation with metal canopies. The Architectural Guidelines speak to reducing the large areas of blank wall space so adding these features along Rice Street is an additional improvement in the updated design. All of the improvements shown are consistent with the requirements of the Architectural Guidelines. Signage The drawings submitted by the applicant show the pylon and building cabinet sign will be refaced with the Aldi updated logo. The colors shown are consistent with the Architectural Guidelines which calls for the use of dark background and light lettering. Additionally, the applicant is proposing to wrap the existing pylon pole with brick that matches the building. This type of upgrade is consistent with our handling of existing pylon signage along Rice Street. Front Yard Setback Variance As mentioned, Aldi, Inc. is seeking a variance for a reduced front yard setback on the west property line. The ordinance standards for a variance are as follows -