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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Planning Commission - 03/28/2012MINUTES REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers - City Hall March 28, 2012 5:30 P.M. COMMISSIONERS: Rudy Garza, Chairman A. Javier Huerta, Vice- Chairman Mark Adame Left at 6:55 p.m." Marco Castillo Gabriel Guerra Arrived at 5:40 p.m.* Evon J, Kelly Govind Nadkarni Left at 5,50 p.m.* John C. Tamez John Taylor STAFF: Dan McGinn, AICP, Interim Manager, Land Development Annika Gunning, Interim Senior Planner Miguel S. Saldana, AICP, Senior Planner Lisa Aguilar, Assistant City Attorney Linda Williams, Recording Secretary Si usted quiere dirigirse a la comision y su ingles es limitado, habre un interprete de espahol a ingles en la junta para ayudarle. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Chairman Garza at 5:30 p.m. and a quorum was declared. 11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion to approve the March 14, 2012 minutes was made by Commissioner Nadkarni and seconded by Commissioner Castillo. Motion passed with Commissioner Guerra absent. Ill. PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEMS A. PLATS 1. Continued Plat Miguel Saldana, Development Services, read Continued Plat Item "a" into record as shown below, Mr. Saldana stated the applicant for Item "a" submitted a letter of request to table action on the plat until the April 11, 2012 meeting and Staff recommended approval of the request. a. 0212018 -13009 (12- 22000009) The Cottages at Southlake Unit 1 (Final -- 10.236 Acres) Located east of Rodd Field Road and north of Slough Road. The public hearing was opened with no coming forward in favor or in opposition and the public hearing was closed. Motion to approve tabling Continued Plat Item "a" to the April 11, 2012. meeting was made by Commissioner Taylor and seconded by Commissioner Nadkarni. Motion passed with Commissioner Guerra absent. Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 2 III: PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEMS (cont.) A. PLATS New Plats Mr. Saidana read New Plats Items "a" and "b" into record as shown below. Mr. Saidana stated New Plats Items "a" and "b" satisfied all requirements of the Unified Development Code and Staff recommended approval. 0212026 -PO13 (12- 22000013) Royal Creek Estates Unit 4 Final — 11.797 Acres Located south of Yorktown Boulevard and east of Cimarron Boulevard: b. 03212030 -P014 (12- 22000014) CCISD- Southside Middle School Tract, Block 1, Lot 1 (Final — 36.469 Acres) Located east of the future extension of Ennis Joslin Road and north of Wooldridge Road. The public hearing was opened with no one coming. forward in favor or in opposition and the public hearing was closed. Commissioner Tamez asked Staff how would this development impact the drainage in the area and Mr. Saidana responded that most of the runoff was going into the Oso Bay and some into Corpus Christi Bay. Mr. Saidana continued that the water flowing into Oso Bay raises the water level this side of South Padre Island Drive; which can affect NAS and some of their runways. Mr. Saldana went on to say there was a bigger problem that needed to be addressed regarding the runoff more so than what this one subdivision would add. The public hearing was closed. Motion to approve New Plats Items "a" and "b" was made by Commissioner Nadkarni and seconded by Commissioner Tamez. Motion passed. Time Extensions Mr. Saldana read Time Extensions Items "a," "b," "c" and "d" into record as shown below. Mr. Saldana continued the representative for Items "a," "c" and "d" submitted a letter of request for six -month time extension and the representative for Item "b" submitted a letter of request for a twelve -month time extension. Mr. Saldana continued that for Item' "a,'` this was the twelfth request, Item "b," this was the fourth request, Item "c," this was the seventh request and for Item "d," this was the fourth request. Mr. Saldana stated Staff no recommendation for Items "a" through "c" and recommended approval for Item "d." a. 0206023 -PO12 River Bend Ranch Subdivision (Final — 341.43 Acres) Located south of Yorktown Boulevard and east of Rodd Field Road. b. 0308020 -NP014 Rodd Field Hospital Tracts (Preliminary -- 19.307 Acres) Located east of Rodd Field Road (SH 357) between Holly Road and Wooldridge Road. KADEVELOPMENTSVCSISHAREMI, PLANNING COMMISSION42012 PC42012 MINUTES503.28.12.PCMtINS DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 3 III. PUBLIC HERING AGENDA ITEMS (coat.) (Commissioner Gabriel Guerra arrived at 5:40 p,m.)* A. PLATS 3. Time Extensions (cont.) C. 0908085 -NP067 (08- 21000015) Furman Addition, Block 1, Lot 7 (Final Replat 2,952 Acres) Located north of Furman Avenue between South Carancahua Street and South Water Street. d. 0211016 -NP014 (11- 21000008) Russell Industrial Area, Block 7, Lot 1A (Final Replat — 4.28 Located west of Baldwin Boulevard and north of Agnes Street. Commissioner Castillo asked why after the third request that Staff makes no recommendation and Mr. SaldaMa answered that Staff makes a recommendation on the first two requests and, after that time, the Planning Commission makes the determination. Mr. Saldana continued that the Planning Commission originally approved one of the plat in February 2006. The public hearing was opened with no coming forward in favor or in opposition and it was closed. Motion to approve Time Extensions Items "a, "c" and "d" for a six - month time extension and Item "b" for a twelve -month time extension.was made by Vice Chairman Huerta and seconded by Commissioner Kelly. Motion passed with Commissioner Nadkarni abstaining. (Commissioner Govind Nadkarni left at 5:50 p.m.)* B. ZONING 1. Continued Zoning Annika Gunning, Development Services, addressed the commission. Ms. Gunning read Continued Zoning Item "a" into record as shown below. Ms. Gunning stated this zoning case was continued from the March 14, 2012 meeting to allow Staff to meet with the applicant to discuss the proposed conditions associated with the Special Permit because he was uncomfortable with several of them, Ms. Gunning stated the subject property was located in the Flour Bluff Area Development (ADP) and the area was planned for commercial and the proposed change in zoning to the "IL" Light Industrial District was not consistent with the ADP. The subject property contains three platted lots. Case No. 0312 -01 (12- 10000006) — Nueces Stone Quarry, LLC: A change of zoning from "CG -2" General Commercial District to "IL" Light Industrial District resulting in a chance of future land use._ Property is described as Flour Bluff Point, Block 6, Lots 2,3 And 4, located along the north side of South Padre Island Drive (SH 358) between Hermine Drive and Stone Street. KADEVELOPMENTSVCSISHAREM1. PLANNING COMMISSION12012 PC12012 MINLITEM03.26.12.1'CMINS.DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 4 III, PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEM (cont.) 9. Continued Zoning Ms. Gunning stated Code E= nforcement cited the owner for using the property with a use not consistent with the current zoning, obstruction of the right -of -way and signage. Ms. Gunning continued the owner was also cited by the Building Inspection Division for building without a permit. Ms. Gunning restated that the proposed zoning request was not consistent with the adopted Future Land Use plan or with the Flour Bluff ADP and both plans identified the area as remaining commercial development. Ms. Gunning continued that the requested rezoning was consistent with the Navy's recommended uses. An "IL" District was not appropriate because of the existing residential uses abutting the property to the north. Ms. Gunning went on to say the stone retail use would be an appropriate use subject to property screening and buffering from the residential area located north of the property and this could be accomplished through a "Special Permit" that would limit the size of the proposed warehouse and outside storage, Ms. Gunning continued that Staff met with the applicant to discuss several of the conditions associated with the Special Permit and he was in agreement with the changes. Ms. Gunning restated that Staff's recommendation was denial of the change of zoning to the "IL" Light Industrial District and in lieu thereof approval of a "Special Permit" for limited outside storage and a warehouse subject to the following conditions: 1. USE: The only uses permitted by the Special Permit other than those uses permitted by right in the "CG -2" General Commercial District are outside storage and a warehouse. 2. OUTSIDE STORAGE: The outside storage shall not exceed an area of 8,000 square feet. The outside storage must beset back at least five (5) feet with a landscape buffer from the residentially used property and screened from the street right -of -way and adjacent properties. 3. WAREHOUSE: The total square footage for the warehouse shall not exceed an area of 5,000 square feet. 4. LIGHTING: Any on -site lighting must be shielded and directed away from the property along its north property line. 5, TIME LIMIT: This Special Permit shall expire after one year from the date of the ordinance unless the property is in compliance with the conditions mentioned above and all other City rules and regulations. After Ms. Gunning's presentation concluded, the public hearing was opened. Mr. Swint Friday, Owner, 10014 South Padre Island Drive, addressed the commission. Mr. Friday stated he met with Staff and he agreed with the proposed conditions as outlined. The public hearing was closed. Motion to deny the change of zoning to the "IL" Light Industrial District and in lieu thereof approval of the "CG -2" General Commercial District with a "Special Permit" for limited outside storage and a warehouse subject to the five (5) conditions outlined by Staff was made by Vice Chairman Huerta and seconded by Commissioner Kelly. Motion passed with Commissioner Nadkarni absent. KADEVELOPMENTSVCSISHAREDW PLANNING COMMISSION%2012 PG12012 MINUTES103.26.12.PCM INS. DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 5 III. PUBLIC HEARING AGENDA ITEMS 2. New Zoning Before Ms. Gunning's presentation, Vice Chairman Huerta requested that the minutes reflect that he was abstaining from the discussion and vote regarding New Zoning Case Item "a." Ms. Gunning began her presentation by reading New Zoning Item "a" into record as shown below. Ms. Gunning presented several aerial views of the subject project, Ms. Gunning continued that the property was located in the Southside Area Development Plan and was planned for low- density residential uses. The purpose of the zoning request was to allow for construction of a 40- resident convent with associated accessory uses for administrative offices and a chapel. a. Case No. 0312.02 (12- 10000011) —Convent Academy of the Incarnate Word: A change of zoning from "RS -4.5 Single - Family 4.5 District, "RS -6" Single - Family 6 District and "RM -1" Multi - Family 1 District to "RM -1" Multi - Family 1 District resulting in a change of future land use from low density residential to medium density residential. _ Property is described as 41.32 acres out of Lots 5, 6 and 7, Section 6, Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, located approximately 200 feet to the west of South Staples Street and along the south side of Lipes Boulevard, Ms, Gunning continued that although the proposed zoning change was not consistent with the adopted Future Land Use Plan, a modification to the plan with a medium density residential district ( "RM -1" District) would be acceptable on the western fifteen (15) acres. Ms. Gunning stated the subject property was currently zoned with single- family residential districts and did not allow "group living" uses such as a convent. Ms. Gunning continued a "group living" use required a minimum of the "RM -1" District; which supported a maximum density of twenty -two (22) dwelling units per acre compared to 7.26 dwelling units per acre in the "RS -6" Single - Family 6 District. Ms. Gunning stated the applicant owns the entire 41.32 -acre tract, but they were only using fifteen (15) acres for constructing the convent facility, and at this time, there were no development plans for the remaining 26.32 acres, The convent, administrative offices and chapel would all be located in the .same building, varying from one to two stores high with' a floor area of approximately 60,000 square feet. Ms. Gunning continued that north of the property, there were single - family houses, a public park and a retirement community, to the south — a vacant tract of land, east —an apartment complex and church and to the west — single- family houses. The property is located approximately 200 feet west of South Staples Street and has approximately 1,900 feet of frontage south of Lipes Boulevard. Ms. Gunning stated the applicant preferred to be located near lower density land uses such as single - family residential because of the nature of the convent rather than near commercial uses or high- density apartments. Ms. Gunning continued they wanted to construct the convent on the portion of the lot farthest away from South Staples Street. Ms. Gunning stated sixty -four (64) zoning notices were mailed and seven (7) notices were returned in opposition, Ms. Gunning continued some of the comments received stated concerns with increased traffic volume, safety and an increase crime rate, Ms. Gunning stated Staff met with Ms. Peggy L. Sumner, Representative for the applicant, to inform her of S's recommendation. Ms. Gunning stated Staff's KADEVELOPMENTSVC&SHARE011 PLANNING COMMISSIOM2012 PCQ012 MIN LITEM03.28.12.PCMIN5.DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 6 recommendation was denial of the change of zoning to the "RM -1" Multi - Family 1 District on the entire 41.32 -acre tract and in lieu thereof approval of the "RIM-l" Multi - Family 1 District on the western fifteen (15) acres and "RS -6" Single- Family 6 District on the remaining eastern 26.32 acres. Ms. Gunning continued that Staff reasoned that based on the density of the convent would be low and the amount of traffic generated would be less than single- family. Ms. Gunning continued this tract was one of the largest in the area. Commissioner Castillo asked Staff to go back to the Existing Land Use Map to clarify whether the bump out shown was zoned for "RM -1" Multi- Family 1 District and it was answered yes. Chairman Garza asked about the density rate and Ms. Gunning stated the density rate was 4.5 for a single- family use and that the convent would have about three (3) dwelling units per acre. After Staffs presentation, the public hearing was opened. Peggy L. Sumner, 211 Santa Barbara, Representative for the Convent, addressed the commission. Ms. Sumner stated she and Mr. Jerry Kramer, 5710 King Trail, were at tonight's meeting to answer any questions the commission might have on the project. Ms. Sumner continued that Mr. Kramer was the architect for the project. Commissioner Castillo asked if the applicant was in agreement and supported Staffs recommendation and Ms. Sumner answered the applicant was satisfied with the recommendation. After all comments and discussion concluded, Chairman Garza called for a motion. Motion to deny the change of zoning to the "RM -1" Multi - Family 1 District on the entire 41.32 -acre tract and in lieu thereof approval of the "RM -1" Multi- Family 1 District on the western fifteen (15) acres and "RS -6" Single - Family 6 District on the remaining 26.32 acres was made by Commissioner Castillo and seconded by Commissioner Taylor. Motion passed with Vice Chairman Huerta abstaining and Commissioner Nadkarni absent. IV. PRESENTATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON TRANSPORTATION PLAN AMENDMENTS Mr. Robert Payne, Planning Department, addressed the commission. Mr. Payne stated he would be presenting four (4) proposed amendments to the Urban Transportation Plan for the commission to discuss and possibly approve. Mr. Payne continued the amendments would be presented individually to allow separate discussion instead of combining them. The proposed four amendments included: ➢ Aquarius Street, Padre Island Area; Martin Street Extension -- Westside Area; Northwest Boulevard Proposed Collector Street; and 3;- Designation of a. Bike Path on the Master Drainage Ditch 27. Aquarius Street: Mr. Payne stated the realignment of Aquarius Street has been proposed to deviate from the current adopted Urban Transportation Plan and would extend the existing Aquarius Street dead -end at Dasmarinas Drive, north eastward of its current location to connect with Commodores Drive across from Fire Station 15, Mr. Payne stated the realignment would be done according to the City Council approved construction plans. Mr. Payne continued that the proposed amendment was presented to the Traffic Advisory Committee (TAC) at their January 23, 2012 meeting and it was approved. Mr. Payne continued that Staff recommended approval of the amendment. Vice Chairman Huerta stated from the TAC's standpoint, would the KZEVELOPMENTSVCSISHAREM1. PLANNING COMMISSIONUO12 PGU012 MINUTESI03.28.12.PCMIN8.000 Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 7 realignment affect their flow of traffic and Mr. Payne responded that the flow of traffic would go directly to Whitecap Boulevard. Extending the street would allow high speed traffic, the area would be impacted less to speed traffic and fire protection would be enhanced because of quicker response time. Vice Chairman Huerta stated that Staff needed to make sure the realignment met all guidelines. Mr. Pete Anaya, Planning Director, addressed the commission. Mr. Anaya stated the long -term impact on the area was that Aquarius Street will dead -end at the canal. Commissioner Castillo asked if the area had been platted and Mr. Anaya answered yes and the old alignment was vacated. Mr. Anaya continued that with the new realignment, the property was also platted. After Mr. Anaya's comments concluded, the public hearing was opened. After all comments and discussion concluded, the public hearing was closed and Chairman Garza called for a motion. Motion to approve the proposed realignment of Aquarius Street as an amendment to th Urban Transportation was made by Commissioner Tamez and seconded by Vice Chairman Huerta, Motion passed with Commissioner Nadkarni absent. Martin Street Extension as a Collector: Mr. Payne showed an aerial view showing continuation of Martin Street to the Crosstown Freeway (SH 286). Mr. Payne stated the proposed realignment of Martin Street to Frio. Street would realign the designated collector street to turn onto Dorado Street, then Hacala Street and finally onto Frio Street. The street was also proposed to be extended as a collector. Mr. Payne continued the proposed realignment would allow for circulation by directing traffic from Martin Street and without impacting a proposed "cottage development." Mr. Payne continued that it was also proposed that Martin Street be extended to provide circulation within the neighborhood to properties abutting State Highway 286; which would allow access to commercial businesses on the freeway without having to take a more circuitous route to Holly Road or Saratoga Boulevard. Mr. Payne stated Staff's recommendations were approved by the Transportation Advisory Board and also by the developer. After Mr. Payne's presentation, the floor was opened for discussion by commissioners. Commissioner Castillo asked if this property was located in the AICUZ and Mr. Payne responded that the property was in close proximity, but it was not actually in the AICUZ. Vice Chairman Huerta asked if Martin Street, as a collector, if there would be an issue having a 90- degree turn and Mr. Payne responded that the turn should not be an issue. Mr. Payne continued that Staff felt this was a reasonable change to the Transportation Plan. Commissioner Castillo asked if the land owner had been notified of what was proposed and that with this proposal to extend Martin Street, he would lose some of his property to street right -of -way and Mr. Payne answered that Staff had not met with the property owner. Commissioner Castillo stated, as a courtesy, Staff should let them know what was happening and that he would be losing part of his property for street right -of- way. Commissioner Castillo continued he completely agreed with the concept, but as a courtesy, the owner should be notified. After further comments and discussion concluded, the public hearing was opened, George Hodge, 6530 Maximus Drive, addressed the commission. Mr. Hodge stated that as one of the developers on the cottage housing development in the neighborhood, they were aware of the proposed extension of Martin Street and felt it would increase the safety factor in the neighborhood. Mr. Hodge continued the corporation constructing the "cottage housing development" was non - profit and he was KADEVELOPMENTSVCSISHARE011. PLANNING COMMISSION12012 PM2012 M €NLITESM.28.12,PCMINS.DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 8 requesting any assistance the City could provide in funding the project. Mr. Hodge stated with the proposed extension, there should not be any delays to their project, Mr. Hodge continued he was excited to be part of a corporation that provided affordable housing within the area. Chairman Garza told Mr. Hodge they did a great job on the Oak Park Cottage Housing development and it was a needed addition to the neighborhood. After all comments concluded, the.public hearing was closed. Chairman Garza called for a motion. Motion to approve designating Hacala Street (between Dorado and Frio Streets) and Dorado Street with a C -1, Collector Street designation and extend Martin Street as a C-1 Collector Street parallel to State Highway 286 to the proposed east/west collector was made by Commissioner Tamez and seconded by Commissioner Kelly. Motion carried with Commissioner Nadkarni absent. Proposed Northwest Area Collector: Mr. Payne showed an aerial view of Northwest Boulevard/FM 624, FM 1889, River Hills Drive, County Road 69 and the proposed collector street requested to be removed from the Transportation Plan. Mr. Payne stated the City was requested to determine if a proposed C -1 Collector on the Urban Transportation Plan could be removed from the adopted plan. The proposed collector street is parallel to Northwest Boulevard and located approximately 0.28 miles (1,500 feet) south of !Northwest Boulevard. Mr. Payne continued the area of concern was between FM 1889 and FM 69. Mr. Payne stated that in January, the TAC requested Staff to provide a conceptual site plan of the area. The conceptual site plan included: ➢ A 63,000 square foot grocery store (H.E.B.); ➢ 64,000 square foot of floor area on five (5) retail sites facing Northwest Boulevard; ➢ Three (3) additional .pad sites with a total acreage of 3.6 and floor area unknown facing FM 1889; and ➢ 8.2 acres of multi- familylindustriallservice center. Mr. Payne continued the property was.currently undeveloped and was zoned "FR" Farm -Rural with dwellings on 5 -acre lots. The adopted f=uture Land Use Plan (FLU) designated the property for commercial and multi - family uses. Mr. Payne stated that the proposed C -1 Collector was placed in the Urban Transportation Plan in 2005 to provide a relief route for traffic congestion on Northwest Boulevard, but it was never dedicated by the existing subdivision to the south. Therefore, construction of the roadway would be required from the large deep tracts fronting onto Northwest Boulevard. Mr. Payne stated the parallel collector would reduce traffic congestion on .FM 624 by providing an alternative east/west roadway. Mr. Payne continued it would also reduce left turning movements on FM 624 and FM 1889 by allowing an approach to the commercial center by way of an extended River Hills Drive or FM 69. Mr. Payne stated that left turning movements from existing traffic from the center would also be reduced by providing an alternative traffic route. Mr. Payne continued that significant obstacles to development of the collector street exists that include existing developed properties and a water supply canal for Water Control and Improvement District No. 3. After Mr. Payne's presentation concluded, the floor was opened for discussion by the commissioners, Commissioner Tamez asked if there was any change that bond funds could be used to improve CR 52 and, if so, could those funds be combined with Nueces County funds to get the project completed and Mr. Payne answered he did not have the answer, but may be Mr. Anaya could provide an answer. K: IDEVELOPMENTSVCWHAREMI PLANNING COMMIS8I0N12672 PCQ012 MINUTESM 2a.12.PCMINS 00C Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 9 Commissioner Kelly asked how did the developers for the H.E.B. project feel about realigning Northwest Boulevard and Mr. Payne answered that the developers felt the collector should be removed and not extended. Commissioner Castillo asked if the funding would be through a bond program and Mr. Anaye responded that the City's portion of funding would be part of the 2008 bonds program to improve CR 69 and the project would be funded as a city project. Vice Chairman Huerta asked if the developers for the H,E.B. project would be constructing the road to the south and Mr. Payne answered that the developers requested that the road be removed from the plan. Commissioner Adame stated that at the last TAC meeting, the committee spent some time discussing this item and it seemed they felt the road should be removed from the plan. Mr, Payne stated that Staff met with the TAC in January and again in February, but no definite recommendation was made by the committee. Commissioner Adame stated he read the developer's letter that was contained in the packet and there were some valid points covered in the letter. Mr. Payne stated that they want to build the store on one lot, but they don't want to construct the road. Mr. Payne continued that as development occurs, eventually the street would have to be constructed. If they have phased development, the construction of the street can be delayed. Commissioner Castillo requested clarification as to standards for an arterial and collector and Mr. Payne stated collectors were to intersect at one - fourth or one -half mile from an arterial to meet the minimum standards, After all discussion concluded, the public hearing was opened. Mark Johnson, with the firm of Bury + Partners, 900 Isom Road, San Antonio, Texas, addressed the commission. Mr. Johnson stated he was the project manager for the Calallen Neighborhood Commercial Development project at the southeast corner of Northwest Boulevard (FM 624) and FM 1889. Mr. Johnson provided brief information regarding the issue of Northwest Boulevard and FM 1889. Mr. Johnson stated that in a meeting in early 2011, the Urban Transportation Plan required a 60 -foot right -of -way dedication for collector street if the entire acreage of + 37acres was platted. Mr. Johnson continued that in a meeting on January 12, 2012, they received verbal support from City staff that this collector street requirement should be eliminated, which lead to the item being scheduled as an agenda item for the TAC January meeting. Mr, Johnson stated he was contacted by Staff informing him that the TAC met in January and decided they did not have enough information to make a decision regarding removal of the eastlwest collector street requirement from the proposed Calallen Neighborhood Commercial Development project. Mr.. Johnson stated that based on the received information, a letter was forwarded to City staff outlining some of their concerns. One of the concerns was that the proposed street section would be a dead -end street until the ten (10) other property owners to the east participated in their sections of the collector street in order for the street to connect to CR 69. Without the funding and participation from the City or some other government agency, the street would never be completed in the entire distance required to serve as relief to Northwest Boulevard. Mr. Johnson concluded his comments by stating that the collector was located too far south to be able to assist their development and it would not be cost effective for the developer to bear the total cost of extending the street. After Mr. Johnson's comments, the public hearing was closed. Mr. Payne stated that with all of the discussion and comments received, Staff's recommendation was for the collector to be retained in the plan. Mr. Payne continued KAI)EVELOPMENTSVC&SHAREW. PLANNING COMMISSIONQ012 PC=12 MIN UTESk03.28.12.PCMINS.00C Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 10 that in response to Mr. Johnson's statement regarding the collector being too far south to assist their project, the collector could be aligned northward to intersect with FM 1889 approximately 350 feet from the south boundary of the commercial site property line. Mr. Payne continued that the Transportation Advisory Committee. met on Monday. March 26, 2012 and their recommendation was to remove the collector from the plan. Mr. Payne added that if the roadway was removed from the plan, the City had no authority to require street construction in the future, and by leaving it in, street construction would be a requirement as part of the platting process. After further discussion, Chairman Garza called for the motion. Motion to approve removal of the proposed Northwest Area Collector from the Urban Transportation Plan was made by Commissioner Kelly and seconded by Commissioner Taylor. Motion passed with Vice Chairman Huerta and Commissioner Castillo voting nay and Commissioner Nadkarni absent. Master Ditch 27: Mr. Payne stated that it has been proposed to add Master Ditch 27 to the existing Hike and Bike Trail System illustrated in the Urban Transportation Plan. Mr. Payne continued that in the future, the major drainage systems for the city will be incorporated in the Hike and Bike Master Plan set to be completed in late 2012. Mr. Payne stated the proposed designations would allow drainage systems to be incorporated into existing and future plans. Current infrastructure would only require maintenance as already scheduled and any improvements set forth because of the Hike and Bike Master Plan will designed according to Storm Water operations. Mr. Payne concluded that Staff recommended adding Master Ditch 27 to the existing Hike and Bike Trail System for future trail system on both sides of the ditch. After Mr. Payne's presentation concluded, the public hearing was opened with no one coming forward and the public hearing.was closed. Chairman Garza called for a motion. A motion to approve adding Master Ditch 27 to the existing Hike and Bike. Trail System for a future rail system on both sides of the ditch was made by Commissioner Tamez and seconded by Commissioner Taylor. Motion passed with Commissioner Nadkarni absent. (Commissioner Mark Adame left at 6:55 p.m.)* V. REGIONAL PARKWAY PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION Tom Niskala, Director with the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), addressed the commission. Mr. Niskala stated he was at tonight's meeting to update the commission on the joint effort of the proposed regional parkway connectivity between the City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County and San Patricio County. Mr. Niskala continued that this project was started several months ago and they were finally at a point where more information could be shared. Mr. Niskala introduced Mr. Bob Leahey and Ms. Leah Oiivarri, two members of the planning team working with the MPO on this project. Mr. Bob Leahey is with the engineering firm of HDR and Ms. Olivarri is a consultant with the firm of Olivarri & Associates. Mr. Niskala stated that Mr. Leahey would be giving a brief presentation on the proposal. At this point in the meeting, the floor was turned over to Mr. Leahey. Mr. Leahey restated that he was with the engineering firm of HDR and the firm had been retained to work with the MPO and the Regional Transit Authority in preparing the proposed parkway. Mr. Leahey continued that the group had been working on the project for the several months and were at a point where information could be shared K OEVELOPMENTSVCSISHAREDIl PLANNING COMMIS S IONQ01 2 PG%2012 MIN UTES%03.28.12.PCMINS.DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 11 with the participating entities and to gather input and comments. Mr. I_eahey's presentation included the following: ➢ Project Description; ➢ History of the Project; ➢ Guidance; ➢ Study Area; ➢ Need and Purpose of the Project; ➢ Project Timeline; and ➢ Future Steps. Proiect Description: To determine feasibility of a transportation corridor that could complement and enhance mobility of the two county regions. History: While this project has been discussed for past decades, in 2010, the Corpus Christi Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County and San Patricio County committed funding for a feasibility study to be completed to allow for orderly planning in the future. Guidance: The four funding partners and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot) have representatives that serve on the project Coordinator Committee. This committee provides guidance and oversight to the project. The Committee has been working with the consulting team in 2011 to determine feasibility and develop concepts. Study Area: The study area is comprised of: ➢ 275,000 acres ➢ Nueces County ➢ San Patricio County and ➢ New crossings Need and Purpose: The need and purpose of the proposed regional parkway are: ➢ Reduce congestion ➢ Facilitate regional mobility ➢ Facilitate potential growth ➢ Address safety issues ➢ Hurricane evacuation route Parkway Concept: Parkway 1, Phase 1 — two lanes of traffic — coming and going Parkway 2, Phase 2 — Future development for traffic increase — four lanes provided for traffic coming and going. Alternative Evaluation Process: Evaluation methodology consists of Steps 1 through 5: Step 1 — Data Collection Study Area Determination Data Collection KiDEVELOPMENTSVMSHARED11. PLANNING COMMISSION12012 PC%2012 MINUTESM 28.12_PCMINS.00C Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 12 Environmental Constraints Analysis Travel Demand Modeling Step 2 -- Fatal Flaw Screening Study Area Refinement AART Analysis (Fatal Flaw Analysis Conceptual Corridor Alternative Identification (AART Matrix) Step 3 — Conceptual Screening Conceptual Alternative Evaluation Viable Corridor Alternative Identification (Alternatives Matrix) Step 4 - Viable Screening Reasonable Corridor Alternative Identification Step 5 - Begin Alignment Identification Phase Fatal Flaw Evaluation Consists of: ➢ AART Process. ➢ AART Alternatives ➢ Identify Conceptual Alternatives Conceptual Alternatives Decision Matrix: ➢ Mobility ➢ Environmental ➢ Engineering ➢ Public involvement Proiect Timeline: ➢ Fatal Flaw Analysis — currently underway ➢ Conceptual Alternative Evaluation ➢ Viable Alternative Evaluation ➢ Reasonable Corridor Identification ➢ Complete Feasibility — Spring 2012 Future Steps: ➢ Detailed Environmental Study (EIS) of alternatives to identify specific route and other design specifics ➢ Would involve significant public outreach ➢ Funding required this study and for parkway ➢ Could be built in phases ➢ Taking only first steps in multi -step and long -term process Mr. Leahey stated that the summary of the conceptual Corridor Alternatives were categorized as "No Build," and Alternatives 1 through 10 with comparative ranking based on an overall alternative score determine_ d by scoring of each of the following: mobility, environmental, engineering and public involvement. The alternatives had previously gone through two screenings and Alternatives 1, 2, 5, 6 and 7 and No Build were completed. Mr. Leahey stated that within the next several months, the team would be making a presentation to the Regional Transit Authority and it was hoped that a recommendation would be made at that time. Mr. Leahey continued that at this time, the RTA was also collecting data for the proposal. After Mr. Leahey's presentation, the floor was opened for comments and discussion. KADEVELOPMENTSVCSSSHAREM1. PLANNING COMMISSIONQ012 PC14M12 MINUTESQ3.28.12.PCMINS -DOC Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 13 Commissioner Tamez asked if any land had to be obtained from the King Ranch and Mr. Niskala answered that at some future time to implement the parkway using the routes outlined, additional land will have to be purchased. Commissioner Castillo asked if there were any common themes that separated the top five alternatives from the bottom five and Mr. Leahey stated it was a combination of multiple factors. Mr. Leahy continued that were no certain trends to base them upon. Mr. Leahey continued that in narrowing the study area, several things were reviewed - blend of land use environmental and the cost. Mr. Niskala stated that SH 286 was being extended to Weber Road and year 2015 funds were earmarked for the environmental work to be done and also to extend SH 286 past FM 2444. Mr. Niskala continued that one of the things the team was also looking at was the possibility of obtaining funding through independent utilities. Mr. Niskala continued that the project was still in its early stage and until there was a feasible corridor established, the parkway would remain on a map and never become a reality. Mr. Leahey added that it was also discussed about the possibility of extending Rodd Field Road, Flour Bluff Drive and Waldron Road, Mr. Leahey continued that how all of this would be connected still had to be determined. Vice Chairman Huerta stated it would be great to have the connection for the Island. Vice Chairman Huerta asked if a section of SH 286 could also become part of the parkway and Mr. Niskala responded that it could and that TxDot was looking at construction of the parkway would also help meet the demand of increased traffic. Commissioner Taylor asked if the different alternatives could be used in the different sections and Mr. Leahey answered that the alternatives that were ready would be taken to the next level depending upon where the connections were made. Mr. Leahey continued the logical connections would be IH 371 US Highway 77. Ms. Olivard added that members of the San Patricio County recommended that, at some time in the future, the parkway loop around to connect Sinton and come back to Corpus Christi. Vice Chairman Huerta asked what would be the approximate distance of the proposed parkway and Mr. Niskala answered that it would be approximately three to four miles. Mr, Leahey commented that the Grand Parkway covered a distance of 180 miles and it covered seven different counties. Mr. Niskala stated the parkway would affect some of the outlying areas. Mr. Niskala shared that a traffic count was done on South Padre Island Drive and it was found that approximately 100,000 cars travels the roadway per day; which was more than San Antonio and the Valley. Commissioner Tamez asked how was this project funded and Mr. Niskala stated funds were received from TxDot and 20 percent of the cost was funded by the City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County and San Patricio County, After all comments and discussion concluded, no action was taken. VI. DISCUSSION OF OUTDOOR RETAILISTORAGE IN OTHER TEXAS CITIES Dan McGinn, Development Services, stated the item will be rescheduled to allow Staff time to compile additional information and extend the number of cities surveyed. KADEVELOPMENTSVCWHAREM PLANNING COMMISS M2012 PCV012 MINUTE8103.28.12.PCMINS.000 Planning Commission Meeting March 28, 2012 Page 14 VII. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Two JLUS meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, April 3, 2012, 6 p.m. at the Flour Bluff High School Theater and Wednesday April 3, 2012, 6 p.m. at Grant Middle School. Four (4) zoning cases were approved by City Council: ➢ Bettie Barr ➢ Yorktown Oso Joint Venture ➢ Vishal Hotel, LP ➢ Time Extension to Special Permit by Vista Del Mar Irrigation Company VII. ADJDOURNMENT There being no further business, motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Taylor and seconded by Commissioner Tamez. Motion passed with Commissioners Nadkarni and Adame absent. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m. C Dan McGinn, AIC Interim Secretary to Planning Commission L RSecretary Date: b �. Date: 4 !✓ K: 10EVELOPMENTSVCMSHAREDW PLANNING COMMISSIM2012 PC%2012 MINUTESM.28.12.PCMINS.DOC