04-25-2007 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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Density. The proposed density for the site is approximately 2.36 units per acre, excluding the portion of the site located outside the city limits. The Low Density Residential land use classification allows up to 4 units per acre. As such, the proposed density for the R -1 plat is appropriate. The site is surrounded by R -1 zoning and large single family parcels, and appears to maintain a compatible and use pattern with the surrounding area as proposed. Access. Access to the site is proposed via a 1,050 foot public street extending south from Labore Road with a 50 foot right of way. The street itself is proposed to be 29 feet in width, measured from the back of the curb. According to Section 1006.030 of the Subdivision Ordinance, single family residential local streets shall be platted at a minimum of 50 feet. The proposed street meets this requirement. The main street curves to the west on the south end of the site, ending in a temporary cul -de -sac. A potential future connection has been shown, extending from the cul -de- sac to the property to the west. This is consistent with the City's recommendation during the previous concept review. A stub road has also been proposed on the east side of the site, just north of Outlot 1. This stub road is intended to provide a future connection to the property to the east, consistent with the City's recommendations during the previous review. Staff is slightly concerned with the lack of access to the property northwest of the subject site. Staff recommends that, at development stage, the applicant demonstrate that a future connection may also be extended north from the temporary cul -de -sac to this site. Open Space. One common open space area is proposed for the site, located in the southwest corner, in the City of Maplewood. This open space area, identified as Outlot 2, is 1.36 acres in area. Two smaller open space areas are proposed, one in the southwest corner of the Little Canada portion of the site, and one in the southeast corner of the Little Canada portion. Both smaller open space areas contain stormwater ponds. Outlot 1 is proposed at .39 acres, and Outlot 3 is proposed at .32 acres. Tree Preservation. The entire site currently contains dense tree cover. Staff is concerned that the proposed construction may require a great deal of clear cutting on the site, preserving only those few trees which lie around the site perimeter. A tree inventory shall be required at development stage, providing the specific number of trees proposed to be removed. Staff recommends that all units be designed to have a minimal impact on the existing tree cover, particularly trees in the front yard spaces of the project. The Comprehensive Plan states that the attractiveness of the East Portion of Little Canada shall be enhanced through a continuing program of civic beautification, including tree plantings and other measures that will promote an aesthetically pleasing environment. In this regard, every effort should be made to preserve as many trees as possible. 4