Laserfiche WebLink
<br />only way this location can be developed to the density anticipated in the Comprehensive <br />Plan Update is if urban services are available. <br />· Does the project move Elk River towards its v'lsion for the future? We believe that it <br />does. With the current development in the areas around this site and the North Star <br />Corridor Train station planned for the area just east of this site, an R-3 type development <br />will fit well with the vision of growth for this area. In addition, it provides a nice <br />transition from the single family housing to the north and high density development to <br />the south. <br />. Is the project consistent with the policies contained in the Plan? It is our intent to <br />develop the project in a manor that is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan Update. <br />Furthermore, should you grant our request there will be further opportunity to review <br />the development at the preliminary plat and fInal plat stage to ensure that we are <br />remaining consistent with your plan. <br /> <br />Concept Plan <br /> <br />A concept plan is included with this request. Our conceptual design for the site includes <br />townhomes in two to fIve unit "sticks". We anticipate approximately 32 units total to be located <br />on the property. In conjunction with this concept, we intend to work with the City and its <br />planners to ensure that this development maintains Elk River's unique identity and character. <br />Natural, cultural and historical resources of the community are essential ingredients of Elk <br />River's identity and we intend to protect and enhance the wetlands and their buffers on the site <br />in ways that exceed the wedand conservation act rules, regulations, and requirements. In fact, <br />we hope to create a development that focuses on the natural elements of this site and makes <br />them an attractive feature that will be valued by the people who choose to make this area their <br />home. <br /> <br />Weare advocates of landscape ecology and sustainable site development and intend to create a <br />site that focuses on low impact development practices and implements stormwater best <br />management practices to ensure the development works in harmony with the surrounding <br />landscape. A wetland delineation has been done and the wedand boundaries are shown on the <br />concept plan. We intend to submit an application to Rebecca Haug, City of Elk River <br />Environmental pla1?1ler, which includes the de1jne~tion report and inform~tio~ regarding the <br />small impact Oess than 400 square feet) to the low quality wetland near the center of the site. <br />Recent discussions with Ms. Haug lead us to believe the information she is interested in needs to <br />be in her hands by the end of the day on January 6, 2005. (please let us know if you need this <br />information as well, or if it needs to be submitted sooner.) <br /> <br />Hardships <br /> <br />The following paragraphs address the hardships that we would bear if these request are not <br />granted. <br /> <br />. We are requesting this change because denial of urban services will prevent us from <br />developing the land to the potential envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan. The existing <br />home/parcel is now vacant and if urban services are not available to the proposed <br />development only two homes can be constructed on the lot. With urban services and <br />the requested zoning, the site can be developed to include approxllllately 32 townhomes. <br />