09/02/2008 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

development and higher density housing areas are provided to ensure that more intense development does not negatively affect existing low density residential areas. The community's goals and strategies relating to natural resources were also considered throughout the development of the plan. Providing for higher density uses on some sites with scenic natural amenities such as wetland areas or along the shores of Peltier Lake also promotes accessibility to key community features and natural amenities, which is another community goal, for residents of higher density housing. Identifying higher density options in these areas also addresses the community's goal and related strategies to sustain Lino Lakes' natural resources by promoting more flexible development in these areas. Accommodating higher density in these areas provides for more site plan flexibility, as development can be concentrated on areas of the site more suitable for development while environmental features are preserved as open space. To promote a well - planned, multi -modal community, pedestrian activity in all areas designated residential will be encouraged through the provision of sidewalks and trails, as well as connections to existing and future pedestrian or transit facilities. As described above, the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan include the provision of affordable housing, life -cycle housing, and pedestrian connections. The preservation and enhancement of natural resources is not only a goal but a fundamental element of the Comprehensive Plan. Achieving these goals in a development project often will increase project costs, which is a significant disincentive for the developer. Therefore, achieving these public goals will require changing the way the City approaches development. This includes the use of incentives to offset increased project costs that would be incurred in achieving City goals. For example, the residential land use categories are defined by density ranges. However, the City may offer a density bonus if a development project includes elements that meet the City's goals, supporting the public values expressed in the goals and policies. A project might be allowed to exceed the land use category's density for providing affordable or life -cycle housing that would not be provided without the incentive. A project that is designed to avoid valued natural features, or that includes a management plan for restoration of a resource, might also qualify for a density bonus. Other incentives also should be considered, such as reducing fees as a way to acknowledge special stormwater management elements that reduce runoff or otherwise achieve goals of the resource management system plan. This incentive program will be created as part of the City's update to its official controls, which follows the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan. Mixed Use The Land Use Plan identifies 512 net acres for mixed use development, which accounts for 4.1 percent of the city's total land area (net of wetlands and water bodies). This use is intended to provide a mix of residential, retail, and office uses. Typically, mixed use development may include higher density housing, retail buildings, and office. Development may be mixed vertically, consisting of main floor commercial space with office or housing units located above, or development may be mixed horizontally on a particular site. These areas shall be designed to incorporate more compact development and promote pedestrian activity. These projects will support pedestrian activity through pedestrian friendly design, and by providing connections to existing and future pedestrian and transit facilities. These future mixed use areas have the opportunity to become the city's gathering space and the design may incorporate public spaces and amenities. Architecture and landscaping are important aspects of mixed use developments, as this type of development is typically oriented to accommodate both pedestrians and vehicles. By providing walkable mixed use areas, stress on the transportation system is reduced. Mixed use areas can also provide a "sense of place" within Lino Lakes by creating active and attractive 3 -16 • • •