12/16/1996 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Landscaping. The foundation plantings shown on the typical unit plan (Exhibit I), show sufficient size and quantity of plant material for the units. The majority of plants utilized are sun loving. Care should be given to locate the shade tolerant shrubs on the north sides of the buildings. It is recommended that more shade tolerant shrubs are added to the plant list in order to provide some variation of the units. Additionally, landscaping shall be required between the units located west of the internal street, to provide some privacy between adjacent patios (Exhibit H). The landscape plan indicates the planting of a solid row of pine trees spaced 15 feet apart, along Apollo Drive, to provide screening of the site. However, the Police Department has recommended that these trees be spaced 25 feet apart to provide some visual site lines of the townhomes from Apollo Drive. Staff believes that if these trees are spaced 25 feet apart it may compromise the objective of the screening of the property from Apollo drive. Therefore, the applicant, City Forester and the Police Chief shall meet to discuss the landscaping and ensure that the plans meet the CPTED (Crime Prevention through Environmental Design) standards. Additionally, the applicant is proposing to plant trees within the I -35W (State Highway) right-of-way, therefore, approval must be obtained from both the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). The overall landscape plan shall be subject to review and approval of the City Forester. Snow Storage. The revised site plan, indicates locations for snow storage along the proposed cul-de-sac. Concern is raised in regard to the storage area at the intersection of Apollo Drive and the proposed cul-de-sac. Snow piling up in this area may cause visibility concerns for motorists backing out of their driveway onto the street. Therefore, as part of the revised site plan, this area should be reconfigured. Building Design & Floor Area. Prior to final project approval, "typical" building elevations and floor plans should be submitted which identify structure height, finishing materials, and proposed dwelling unit areas. All dwelling units must meet minimum floor area requirements stipulated in the Ordinance. Because the applicant has not submitted specific building plans, prior to issuance of any building permit, the developer must meet with City staff to discuss details of the building plans and site grading, and settle any issues necessary. Public Services. Public utilities are available to the site, and should not overburden the City's service capacity (i.e., police, fire, utilities, etc.). This item is subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 8