07/15/2004 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

• • project as proposed. Shoreland setbacks cannot be met, private roads are not normally allowed, the private road is in the shore impact area, and the road will extend a cul de sac that already exceeds the maximum length of 500 feet. Because of these and potentially other inconsistencies with ordinance requirements, a planned unit development (PUD) has been proposed. A PUD offers the opportunity to deviate from strict application of ordinance requirements to achieve goals —such as more efficient use of land and preservation of desirable site characteristics —that would not be possible when adhering to normal ordinance requirements. An important question for the proposed project is whether the proposed design meets enough of such goals to justify the many deviations from normal requirements. However, the decision to approve or deny the application for a PUD rezoning and preliminary plat is separate from the EAW process. Information gathered for this EAW will help in making that decision, but it is not the purpose of the EAW to definitively answer the question of whether to approve or deny the project. Wildlife Impacts A search in the Minnesota Natural Heritage database revealed four documented occurrences of ` Blanding's Turtles ", a state threatened species. Although none of these occurrences were within the project area, they were within a few miles, and it is likely that Blanding's Turtles may use the site if habitat is suitable. Based on recommendations of the DNR, a number of mitigation techniques are proposed by the project proposer for avoiding and minimizing impacts to Blanding's Turtle populations. Wetland Impacts No wetland fill was proposed for the two -span bridge. If the new five -pier bridge design requires wetland fill, the proposal must be reviewed by the Rice Creek Watershed District. The District is the local governmental unit under the Wetlands Conservation Act. Dewatering and fill for the bridge pilings technically is within the area of Wards Lake because it is below the ordinary high water level. This area falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Minnesotat Dept. of Natural Resources. Noise, Vibration Individual home construction will not cause unusual or substantial impacts. Construction noise is an important issue for this project because of the need for a pile driver for construction of the bridge. The potential noise and vibration has created concern over impacts on existing nearby residences in the Quail Ridge neighborhood. The nearest existing home is approximately 70 feet from the west end of the proposed bridge. The noise from the pile driving would be unpleasant for nearby residents. It will be temporary — the duration of the bridge construction. Construction hours will be limited by a standard city requirement in all development agreements: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday; DRAFT July 1, 2004 Pheasant Hills Preserve 12th Addn. EAW Record of Decision page 3