5.5 .& 5.6. 01-25-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. only way this location can be developed to the density anticipated in the Comprehensive Plan Update is if urban services are available. . Does the project move Elk River towards its vision for the future? We believe that it does. With the current development in the areas around this site and the North Star Corridor Train station planned for the area just east of this site, an R-3 type development will fit well with the vision of growth for tllls area. In addition, it provides a nice transition from the single family housing to the north and lllgh density development to the south. . Is the project consistent Witll the policies contained in the Plan? It is our intent to develop the project in a manor that is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan Update. Furthermore, should you grant our request there will be further opportunity to review tlle development at the preliminary plat and final plat stage to ensure that we are remaining consistent with your plan. . Concept Plan A concept plan is included with this request. Our conceptual design for the site includes townhomesin two to five unit "sticks". We anticipate approximately 32 units total to be located' on the property. In conjunction with tllls concept, we intend to work with the City and its planners to ensure that this development maintains Elk River's unique identity and character. Natural, cultural and lllstorical resources of the community are essential ingredients of Elk River's identity and we intend to protect and enhance the wetlands and their buffers on the site in ways that exceed the wetland conservation act rules, regulations, and requirements. In fact, we hope to create a development that focuses on the natural elements of this site and makes them an attractive feature that will be valued by the people who choose to make tllls area their home. We are advocates of landscape ecology and sustainable site development and intend to create a site that focuses on low impact development practices and implements stormwater best management practices to ensure the development works in harmony with the surrounding landscape. A wetland delineation has been done and the wetland boundaries are shown 011 the concept plan. We intend to submit an application to Rebecca Haug, City of Elk. River Envirorunental pla1?1ler, wlllch includes the de1jne~tion report and inform~tio~ regarding the small impact (less than 400 square feet) to the low quality wetland near the center of the site. Recent discussions with Ms. Haug lead us to believe the information she is interested in needs to be in her hands by the end of the day on January 6, 2005. (please let us know if you need tllls information as well, or if it needs to be submitted sooner.) Hardships The following paragraphs address the hardslllps that we would bear if these request are not granted. .. We are requesting this change because denial of urban services will prevent us from developing the land to the potential envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan. The existing home/parcel is now vacant and if l1rban services are not available to the proposed development only two homes can be constructed. on the lot. With urban semces and the requested zoning, the site can be developed to include approx:iriiately 32 townhomes. .