pc_12 17 2009LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING — REZONING — CONDITIONAL USE HEARING
MINUTE RECORD
DECEMBER 17, 2009
4:00 P.M.
Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum
A Quorum was present being eight (8) in number.
Members Present: Pam Adcock
William Changose
J. T. Ferstl
Troy Laha
Bill Rector
Billy Rouse
Candice Smith
Jeff Yates
Members Absent: Obray Nunnley, Jr.
Open Positions (2)
City Attorney: Cindy Dawson
Approval of the Minutes of the November 5, 2009 Meeting of the Little Rock
Planning Commission. The Minutes were approved as presented.
LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING — REZONING — CONDITIONAL USE HEARING
DECEMBER 17, 2009
4:00 P.M.
OLD BUSINESS:
Item Number: File Number: Title
A. Z-1 465-B Little Rock Prep, Inc. Charter School —
Conditional Use Permit
4601 S. University Avenue
NEW BUSINESS:
Item Number: File Number: Title
1. LU09 -04 -03 Land Use Amendment from Office and Park/Open
Space to Office
NE corner of N. University Avenue and Evergreen
Street
1.1 Z- 1859 -1 Rezoning from R -2 to 0-3
NE corner of N. University Avenue and Evergreen
Street
2. Z -8508 Rezoning from R -2 to 1 -2
11812 Vimy Ridge Road
3. Z- 5675 -C Philander Smith College Student Housing — Conditional
Use Permit
One Trudie Kibbe Reed Drive
4. G -25 -204 West Taylor Loop Road Name Change to LaMarche
Drive
5. G -25 -205 12th Street Name Change to Bishop Leodies
Warren Drive
12th Street from Scott Street to Fair Park Blvd.
6. Philander Smith College Master Plan Presentation
7. LU09 -11 -01 Land Use Amendment from Office to Commercial along
Kaufman Road, south of Kanis Road
8. Resolution of support for the 12th Street Corridor Plan
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: A FILE NO.: Z-1465-B
NAME: Little Rock Urban Prep, Inc. Charter School -
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: 4601 S. University Avenue
OWNER/APPLICANT: SBF Investments II, lnc./Rick Freeling, RPM and
Little Rock Urban Prep
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow a
charter school for young males in grades kindergarten
through 8th grade with an enrollment cap of 696
students on this C-4 zoned 9.14 acre tract.
1.SITE LOCATION:
The site is located on the east side of S. University Avenue, approximately
¼ mile south of Asher Avenue.
2.COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIG HBORHOOD:
The property is located along the S. University Avenue Commercial
corridor. Just north of the site is the University/Asher/Colonel Glenn
intersection which contains a wide range of C-3 commercial uses. Just
north and south of the site are OS zoned floodways. The floodway
designation continues to the east of the site. ·An undeveloped Planned
Development is located north of site. South of the site are a variety of
uses including a golf driving range and a church. Across S. University
Avenue, uses include a technical school, the City's Animal Village, First
Tee and a vacant auto sales lot. The proposed reuse of this vacant
property for a school is compatible with uses and zoning in the area.
All owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site, any residents
within 300 feet who could be identified and SWLR United for Progress and
the University District were notified of this request.
3.ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The parking requirement for elementary and middle schools is 1 space per
classroom plus 1 space for every employee plus adequate stacking space
for drop-off and pickup of students. This school is proposed to have a
total of 63 employees and 696 students who will be located in 36
classrooms. A total of 99 parking spaces are required. 138 spaces are
proposed. Two separate drop-off/pickup areas and associated stacking
lanes are proposed; one in front of the school and the second on the west
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1465-B
side of the school. Staff is continuing to analyze the proposed vehicle
stacking to determine if it is sufficient.
4.SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
If rehabilitation costs of the project exceeds 50% of the replacement costs
then the site must be brought up to code; including the landscape
ordinance.
5.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
6.
The property lies within the 100 year floodplain of Fourche Creek. No
future construction of any structures, improvements to the interior of the
structures over 50% of the market value of the structures are allowed
without the entire structure being in compliance with the current City of
Little Rock Floodplain regulations (Chapter 13). The installation of any
new parking areas, or placement of fill material are not allowed within the
floodplain prior to City approval and issuance of a Grading Permit for
Special Flood Hazard areas. Provide an appraisal of the structure(s)
prepared by a licensed appraiser. Provide an estimate of the cost of the
proposed improvements to the structure prepared by a licensed
contractor.
A small portion of the northeast corner of the site appears to be located in
the floodway. The floodway must be shown in an easement or dedicated
to the City of Little Rock. A 25 fl. access easement is required adjacent to
the floodway.
Applicant needs to provide a traffic study to determine if there is sufficient
room for pickup and drop-off.
UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: No Comments received.
CenterPoint Energy: No Comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No Comments received.
Water: No Objection.
Fire Department: Fire sprinklers may be required. Additional fire hydrant
will be required.
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December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1465-8
County Planning: No Comments.
CAT A: The site is located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (OCTOBER 8, 2009)
The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted additional
information was needed regarding use of the specific buildings, signage, number
of employees and classrooms, site lighting, fencing, playground and outside play
areas, dumpster location and vehicle stacking areas. The applicants presented a
site plan showing responses to some of the issues. Staff commented that the
proposed stacking space for student drop-off and pickup appeared inadequate.
A discussion followed of possible alternatives.
Public Works Comments were discussed. The applicants stated they understood
the floodplain issue and felt they could comply with floodplain regulations.
Fire Department and Landscape Comments were noted. Again, the applicants
stated they would comply with the conditions.
The applicants were advised to respond to staff issues by Wednesday,
October 14, 2009. The Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The C-4 zoned, 9.14 acre tract located at 4601 S. University Avenue is occupied
by vacant commercial buildings and asphalt paved parking lots. The property
was previously occupied by an automobile/truck sales business and has been
vacant for several years. Two buildings are located on the south half of the site.
The larger, one-story, metal building contains approximately 32,285 square feet
in area. The second one-story, metal building contains approximately 7,287
square feet in area. The west half of the north half of the property contains a
small, 800 square foot building and a large, paved parking lot. The east half of
the north half of the property is currently undeveloped and tree-covered. Access
to the site is via a single driveway off of a fully signalized intersection onto S.
University Avenue.
Little Rock Urban Prep, Inc. is requesting approval of a conditional use permit to
allow a public charter school to occupy the property. The proposed charter
school will educate young men in grades kindergarten through eighth grade with
an enrollment cap of 696 students. Employees will consist of 48 teachers and 15
support staff.
3
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1465-B
The larger building will be remodeled to contain offices, classrooms, kitchen,
dining/auditorium and a gymnasium. The smaller building will be remodeled to
contain a library/audio center and staff lounge. An addition onto the smaller
building will contain additional classrooms. The two buildings will be tied
together with a small addition. Playground area will be located adjacent to the
main building. The new classroom addition will have a setback of 20± feet from
the rear ( east) property line. The C-4 zoning district typically requires a rear yard
setback of 25 feet. Staff is supportive of this slight reduction in setback since the
property to the east is undevelopable floodway.
The large area of asphalt paving will be removed from the west half of the north
half of the property and a football field will be installed in its place. Seating
bleachers and a building containing locker rooms, restrooms and concession
stands will be built on the east side of the football field. A new, 72 space parking
lot will be constructed on the currently undeveloped east half of the north half of
the property. The Zoning Ordinance would typically require a buffer of 20 feet on
the east side of the proposed new parking lot. The applicant is proposing a 9-
foot wide landscape strip in this area to comply with the landscape ordinance.
Staff is supportive of the reduction in the buffer depth since the property to the
east is undevelopable floodway. Staff is also supportive of a reduced buffer
depth along S. University in front of the new football field. Again, a 9-foot
landscape strip is shown in this area. The proposed landscape strip and grassy
football field are a substantial improvement over the existing asphalt parking lot
that currently extends nearly to the front property line.
The existing asphalt paved area in front (west) of the main building will be
configured to provide additional landscaping, parking and pickup/drop-off space.
The existing buffer along S. University Avenue in this area is deficient but staff is
supportive of allowing the reuse of the paved area as proposed. Additional
landscaping in the form of a landscaped island and lawn will greatly enhance this
area. A substantial grassy area is located in the University Avenue right-of-way
as well which provides the appearance of more buffer.
The applicant has stated all remodeling and new construction will comply with
the City's requirements for construction in the floodplain. The small portion of
the property at the northeast corner of the site has been indicated as floodway
and will be shown as an easement. Site lighting will consist of parking
lot/driveway lighting and football field lighting. A single ground mounted sign
will be placed on the site. Signage will comply with that allowed in commercial
zones. No fencing is currently shown on the site plan; however, it is anticipated
that the playground area and ball field will be fenced.
In response to staff's request, the applicant has shown areas for stacking of
vehicles and multiple locations for drop-off and pickup of students. Staff is
4
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1465-B
continuing to work with the applicant to determine if the stacking is sufficient
to prohibit vehicles from stacking onto S. University Avenue.
To staff's knowledge there are no other outstanding issues. The proposed
school is a good reuse of a vacant site, which could lead to additional
revitalization of unused properties in the area. There is no bill of assurance
covering this acreage tract.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is supportive of the proposed C.U.P. The final recommendation is
forthcoming, depending upon resolution of the vehicle stacking question.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (NOVEMBER 5, 2009)
The applicants were not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the Commission that, on October 27, 2009, the applicants had requested deferral
of the item to the December 17, 2009 agenda to allow time to work with staff on
traffic issues. There was no further discussion.
The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved for deferral by a vote
of 7 ayes, 0 noes, 2 absent and 2 open positions.
STAFF UPDATE:
On November 17, 2009, the applicant requested deferral of the item to the
January 28, 2010 meeting to allow additional time to work on traffic issues. Staff
supports the deferral request.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
The applicants were not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed
the Commission that the applicants had requested deferral of the item to the
January 28, 2010 meeting to allow additional time to work on traffic issues. There
was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and
approved for deferral by a vote of 8 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent and 2 open positions.
5
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 1 FILE NO.: LU09-04-03
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment -Heights Hillcrest Planning District
Location: the northeast corner of Evergreen and University Avenue
Request: Park/Open Space and Office to Office
Source: William C. Goolsby
PROPOSAL / REQUEST:
A Land Use Plan amendment in the Heights Hillcrest Planning District from
Park/Open Space and Office to Office. The office category represents services
provided directly to consumers (e.g., legal, financial, medical) as well as general
offices which support more basic economic activities.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is about one acre in size and is currently zoned R-2 Single Family
and O-3 General Office. The area fronting University Avenue and Evergreen
Drive is shown R-2 zoning with the O-3 portion facing Van Circle. This site is
wooded and undeveloped. The area immediately west of this site is zoned R-2
and is developed with single family residences. The area immediately south of
this site is shown as O-2 and is undeveloped. Southeast of this site is zoned R-2
with a condional use for an elementary school. The southwest corner of
University and Evergreen Drive is zoned O-3 and is developed with medical
offices that front University Avenue.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
The amendment site is currently shown as Park/Open Space and Office on the
Future Land Use Plan. The Park/Open Space is a strip about 100 feet wide that
fronts University Avenue and Evergreen Drive. The Park/Open Space strip
extends north and east of this amendment site. The Office extends are Van
Circle. West of this site is all shown as Residential Low Density. South of this
site is shown as Public Institutional. Southwest is shown as Office.
May 18, 2004, Ordinance 19095 was passed to amend the northeast corner of
the Markham and University intersection from Multi Family and Office to
Community Shopping.
MASTER STREET PLAN:
University Avenue is shown as a Principal Arterial. The primary function of a
Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic generators
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-04-03
or activity centers within urbanized areas. Evergreen Drive is a Collector. The
primary function of a Collector Street is to provide a connection from Local
Streets to Arterials. Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative
effects of traffic and pedestrians on University Avenue since it is a Principal
Arterial. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require
street improvements for entrances and exits to the site.
BICYCLE PLAN:
There are no bike routes shown in the immediate vicinity.
PARKS:
According to the Master Parks Plan, this area is within eight blocks of a park or
open space. Prospect Terrace Park on L Street is the closest park within range,
and a school is located just south of the application site.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this
amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
This area is included in the Heights Area Neighborhood Action Plan. The Zoning
goal states: "Require all non-residential development to submit a Planned
Development for zoning changes. We do not support any zoning changes that
are in conflict with the Future Land Use Plan. Any change must be consistent
with the character of the neighborhood."
ANALYSIS:
The current application was filed with an attached rezoning for the northeast
corner of University Avenue and Evergreen Drive. The request is a change from
Park/Open Space to Office and from R-2 Single Family to O-3 General Office.
This area has been shown as Park/Open Space for many years and has never
been developed. This portion of University Avenue is a Minor Arterial and has
been developed as an office corridor. This amendment site is surrounded on
three sides by office zonings. A portion of this property owner's area is already
shown as Office on the Future Land Use plan and is already zoned O-3.
This area is currently shown as Park/Open Space which significantly impacts the
property owners ability to develop the land. The Park/Open Space has been on
the future land use plan for a very long time and staff is not able to determine
why this PK/OS buffer was originally placed on this arterial/collector corner. A
2
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-04-03
change to Office would be an appropriate change and would fit in with the
character of University Avenue. The area is not big enough or configured to be
used as a recreation use and there is not a need to have an 'OS' buffer between
Office use and a school or other office uses.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Notices were sent to the following neighborhood associations: Hillcrest,
Evergreen and South Normandy. Staff has received two comments from area
residents.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff believes the change is appropriate.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
There being only eight Planning Commissioners present the Applicant requested
that the item be deferred until January 28, 2010. A motion was made to defer the
item to the January 28, 2010 Planning Commission meeting. By a vote of 8 for
and O against the item was deferred.
3
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 1.1 FILE NO.: Z-1859-I
Owner: William and Deborah Goolsby and Roy Jolly
Applicant: William Goolsby
Location: Northeast corner of N. University Avenue and
Evergreen Street
Area: Approximately 1.42 Acres
Request: Rezone from R-2 to O-3
Purpose: Future office development
Existing Use: Undeveloped
SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING
North - Undeveloped strip and office use; zoned R-2 and O-3
South - Undeveloped property and middle school campus
(across Evergreen Street); zoned O-2 and R-2
East - Office/Clinic uses; zoned O-3
West - Single family residences (across University Avenue); zoned R-2
A.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1.The centerline of the University Avenue right-of-way is not shown.
University Avenue is classified on the Master Street Plan as a principal
arterial. Dedication of right-of-way to 55 feet from centerline will be
required.
2.With site development, provide design of street conforming to the
Master Street Plan. Construct a right turn lane on Evergreen Street
including moving the 5-foot sidewalks with planned development.
3.Where a principal arterial street (University Avenue) intersects an
existing collector street (Evergreen Street), the applicant shall dedicate
an additional 10 ft. of right-of-way beyond that required for a collector
street (60 ft.), measured from the centerline of the right-of-way for a
right turn lane. This additional right-of-way shall normally be 250 ft. in
length measured from the intersecting right-of-way lines shall normally
have a radius of 75 to 100 ft.
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO: 1.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1859-I
4.At time of development, sidewalks with appropriate handicap ramps
are required to be installed along University Avenue in accordance with
Sec. 31-175 of the Little Rock Code and the Master Street Plan.
B.PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT:
The site is located on CATA Bus Route #21 (University Avenue Route).
Route No. 8 (Rodney Parham Route) runs along "H" Street to the south.
C.PUBLIC NOTIFICATION:
All owners of property located within 200 feet of the site, all residents
within 300 feet who could be identified, and the Hillcrest, Evergreen, South
Normandy, Normandy-Shannon and Prospect Terrace Neighborhood
Associations were notified of the rezoning request.
D.LAND USE ELEMENT:
This request is located in the Heights Planning District. The Land Use
Plan shows Park/Open Space/Office for this property. The applicant has
applied for a rezoning from R-2 to O-3.
A Land Use Plan amendment is a separate item on this agenda.
Master Street Plan:
University Avenue is shown as a Principal Arterial. The primary function of
a Principal Arterial is to serve through traffic and to connect major traffic
generators or activity centers within urbanized areas. Evergreen Drive is a
Collector. The primary function of a Collector Street is to provide a
connection from Local Streets to Arterials. Entrances and exits should be
limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on University
Avenue since it is a Principal Arterial. These streets may require dedication
of right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits
to the site.
Bicycle Plan:
There are no bike routes shown in the immediate vicinity.
Neighborhood Action Plan:
This area is included in the Heights Area Neighborhood Action Plan. The
Zoning goal states: "Require all non-residential development to submit a
Planned Development for zoning changes. We do not support any zoning
2
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO: 1.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1859-I
changes that are in conflict with the Future Land Use Plan. Any change
must be consistent with the character of the neighborhood."
E.STAFF ANALYSIS:
William and Deborah Goolsby and Roy Jolly, owners of approximately
1.42 acres of property located at the northeast corner of N. University
Avenue and Evergreen Street, are requesting to rezone the property from
"R-2" Single Family District to "0-3" General Office District. The rezoning
is proposed for future office development. The property consists of part of
Lots 3-C-AR and 3-C-BR, Hillside Village Subdivision.
The property proposed for rezoning is made up of a 100 foot wide strip
along N. University Avenue and a 50 foot wide strip along Evergreen
Street which were zoned R-2 in 1965. The property was zoned R-2 to
serve as a buffer for the overall zoning (approximately 50 acres) to the
north and east. At the time the zoning took place, it was anticipated that a
large hospital campus would be developed.
The site is currently undeveloped and mostly tree covered. The property
slopes downward from east to west and north to south. There is a
drainage way which runs north/south along the west property line.
The general area contains a mixture of uses and zoning. There are
office/clinic uses immediately north and east of the site, with multifamily
developments further north and east. Single family residences are located
across N. University Avenue to the west. Office uses are located to the
southwest, across the intersection of N. University Avenue and Evergreen
Street. Undeveloped O-2 zoned property and the Forrest Heights Middle
School Campus are located to the south, across Evergreen Street.
The City's Future Land Use Plan designates this property as park/open
space. A Land Use Plan amendment to office is a separate application on
this agenda.
Staff is supportive of the requested rezoning to O-3. Staff views the
request as reasonable. The property requested for rezoning is area that
was set aside (and zoned R-2) as a buffer area, as part of a much larger
piece of property (approximately 50 acres) that was planned for a large
hospital campus development. Of course, the hospital development never
materialized. The overall property developed into a variety of uses, with
the Prospect Building to the north, and multifamily and small office uses at
the center and south portions. The property immediately north and east of
the subject property developed as small (one and two-story) office/clinical-
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December 17, 2009
ITEM NO: 1.1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-1859-I
type uses in more of a park-like setting. Staff believes continuation of the
small office-type development to this property will have no adverse impact
on the surrounding properties. The applicant needs to be aware of the
fact that the property consists of pieces of two (2) platted lots, and before
ownership of the lots can be split and a building permit issued for new
development, a replat must be filed with staff.
F.STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested O-3 rezoning.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
William Goolsby was present, representing the application. There was one ( 1)
person present in opposition. Mr. Goolsby requested the application be deferred
to the January 28, 2010 Agenda based on the fact that only eight (8)
commissioners were present. The deferral was offered by the Commission.
There was a motion to defer the application to the January 28, 2010 Agenda.
The motion passed by a vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent and 2 open positions.
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December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 2 FILE NO.: Z-8508
Owner: William Spencer
Applicant: William Spencer and Eron McCuller
Location: 11812 Vimy Ridge Road
Area: 1.34 Acres
Request: Rezone from R-2 to I-2
Purpose: Auto sales
Existing Use: Single family residence
SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING
North - Light industrial uses and church; zoned I-2 and R-2
South - Single family residence and convenience store; zoned R-2 and C-3
East - Undeveloped property (across Vimy Ridge Road); zoned I-3
West - Light industrial use; zoned I-2
STAFF NOTE:
Staff inadvertently placed this application on this agenda. The applicant actually
filed for the January 28, 2010 agenda. Therefore, staff recommends deferral of
this application to the January 28, 2010 agenda.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
Staff informed the Commission that the application needed to be deferred to the
January 28, 2010 Agenda.
The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and deferred to the January 28,
2010 agenda, as recommended by staff, by a vote of 8 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent
and 2 open positions.
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 3 FILE NO.: Z-5675-C
NAME: Philander Smith College Student Housing -
Conditional Use Permit
LOCATION: One Trudie Kibbe Reed Drive
OWNER/APPLICANT: Philander Smith College
PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the
phased construction of four new dormitory buildings
on this R-4 zoned college campus.
1.SITE LOCATION:
The main part of the college campus occupies the nine blocks bounded by
Chester Street, Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Gaines Street and I-630.
The dormitories are proposed to be constructed in the east-central portion
of the campus.
2.COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD:
The College has been at this location since 1882. The current boundaries
of the main campus were generally established during the 1930's and
1940's. I-630 abuts the campus on the north. Mount Holly Cemetery is
located across Gaines Street to the east. An area of C-3 zoned properties
containing several smaller uses is located to the south, across Daisy
Bates. The properties across Chester Street to the West are zoned O-3,
R-4 and I-2 and contain a variety of uses. The proposed dormitories are
to replace existing buildings on the campus. Allowing construction of the
new buildings will not affect the college's continued compatibility with the
neighborhood.
All owners of properties located within 200 feet of the campus, all
residents within 300 feet who could be identified and the Downtown
Neighborhood Association and Capitol Zoning Administrator were notified
of this request.
3.ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING:
The campus currently contains 440,000 square feet of building space, of
which, 50,000 square feet are not used or fit to be used. The current
student population is 600 students. The parking requirement for a college
is one space per every 300 square feet of building area or one space
for every 4 students, whichever is greater. Parking requirement is
1,300 spaces for the usable 390,000 square feet or 150 spaces for the
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5675-C
600 students. The campus currently contains 536 surface parking spaces,
only 150 of which are used on a daily basis by students and faculty. The
school's master plan ultimately anticipates an enrollment of 1,000 students
in 648,200 square feet of building area. Under this plan, 740 parking
spaces will be located on the campus. Since many of the students do not
drive to the school, the proposed parking appears to be sufficient.
4.SCREENING AND BUFFERS:
Site plan must comply with the City's Landscape and Buffer Ordinance
requirements.
Any/all newly landscaped areas must be automatically irrigated and
landscaped per Chapter 15, Landscape Ordinance.
Street trees are recommended.
Prior to the issuance of a building permit, a landscape plan must be
approved that includes the stamp of a Registered Landscape Architect.
The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing
trees as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance
requirements can be given when properly preserving trees of six (6) inch
caliper or larger.
5.PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS:
1 . At time of development, repair or replace any curb and gutter or
sidewalk that is damaged in the public right-of-way prior to occupancy.
2.At time of development, sidewalk and now curb and gutter should be
installed along S. Gaines Street across Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed Drive.
3.At the time of development, plans of all work in right-of-way shall be
submitted for approval prior to start of work. Obtain barricade permit
prior to doing any work in the right-of-way from Traffic Engineering at
(501)379-1805 (Travis Herbner).
4.At the time of development, a drainage analysis should be conducted
to determine the adequacy of the existing drainage system
downstream of the site and on the site. Depending on the outcome of
the analysis, drainage improvements maybe required.
Structures are shown to be constructed in the closed public right-of
way of 13th Street and S. State Street. At the time of closure, utility
easements were required to be maintained in the right-of-way.
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December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5675-C
6.
Structures cannot be built within utility easements. All utilities must be
contacted.
UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS:
Wastewater: Existing sewer main on site must be relocated. Sewer main
extension required with easements. Capacity Contribution Analysis
required, contact LRW for details.
Entergy: No comments received.
Centerpoint Energy: No comments received.
AT&T (SBC): No comments received.
Water: Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the water
requirements for this building. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in
effect at the time of request for water service must be met.
The facilities on-site will be private. When meters are planned off private
lines, private facilities shall be installed to Central Arkansas Water's
material and construction specifications and installation will be inspected
by an engineer, licensed to practice in the State of Arkansas. Execution of
Customer Owned Line Agreement is required.
Please submit plans for water facilities and/or fire protection system to
Central Arkansas Water for review. Plan revisions may be required after
additional review. Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures
for installation of water facilities and/or fire service. Approval of plans by
the Arkansas Department of Health Engineering Division and Little Rock
Fire Department is required.
The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site to determine
whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If
additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the
Developer's expense.
Fire sprinkler systems which do not contain additives such as antifreeze
shall be isolated with a double detector check valve assembly. If additives
are used, a reduced pressure zone backflow preventer shall be required.
If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated, contact
Central Arkansas Water. That work would be done at the expense of the
developer.
3
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5675-C
Fire Department: Fire hydrants to be worked out with fire sprinkler
company.
County Planning: No Comments.
CAT A: The site is located on a CATA bus route.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (NOVEMBER 24, 2009)
Barry Williams and Terry Wallace were present representing The College. Staff
presented the item and noted little additional information was needed. In
response to staff's request, the applicants provided detailed building elevations.
Staff noted that the proposed buildings were located in abandoned street right-of
ways. Staff
stated the former rights-of-way were retained for drainage and utility easements
and those easements would need to be abandoned.
Public Works, Utility and Landscape Comments were noted and discussed.
Staff informed the Committee that Philander Smith would be presenting their
Master Plan to the Commission as a separate item on the December 17, 2009
Agenda. The Committee determined that there were no other issues and
forwarded the item to the Commission.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The main campus of Philander Smith College occupies the nine blocks bounded
by Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Gaines Street, Chester Street and I-630. The
majority of the property is zoned R-4. The southeast corner of the campus
property is within the Capitol Zoning District. The College owns additional
properties in the area, primarily along Daisy Bates Drive and Chester Street. The
College has recently adopted a long-term master plan to expand its facilities in
anticipation of increased student growth. The school's current enrollment is
approximately 600 students with growth to 1,000 students being anticipated
within the next decade.
Each of the multiple phases of the school's master plan are themselves broken
into several phases. Each phase will require approval by the Planning
Commission through the conditional use permit process. The first component of
Phase I involves the phased construction of four ( 4) new student housing
buildings. Old, unused dormitory buildings will be removed to make way for
construction of the new buildings. These four (4) buildings will be constructed
on the east side of the campus; within the block bounded by Gaines Street and
4
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5675-C
the former rights-of-way of West 12th Street, State Street and West 13th Street
(Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed Drive).
Each of the buildings will be three (3) stories in height with shingled, hip roofs.
The buildings will be finished with split face block, precast concrete, brick and
stucco. The height of the buildings, as measured to the mid span of the hip roof,
is 36' 4". A central tower element will extend to 47'5" in height. Three (3) of the
four (4) buildings will contain 60, one-bed dorm rooms and associated amenities
such as restrooms, lounge areas, dining area and laundry facilities. The fourth
building will contain 40, one-bed rooms and associated amenities. Parking will
be in the parking lot that covers the block immediately to the north. The buildings
closest to the Gaines Street perimeter will have a minimum setback of 26 feet
from the property line along Gaines Street. The remainder of the main campus
extends to the north, south and west of the area proposed for construction of the
dormitory buildings. The rear of Mt. Holly Cemetery is located across Gaines
Street to the east.
Portions of two (2) of the four (4) buildings are proposed to be located in the
former right-of-way of State and West 13th Streets. When those rights-of-way
were abandoned, the areas of the former streets were retained for drainage and
utility easements. Prior to approval of building permits, those easements must
abandoned. Easement abandonment requests are filed with the Planning
Department and go directly to the Board of Directors.
Otherwise, to staff's knowledge, there are no other outstanding issues. Staff is
supportive of the proposal to construct the new dormitory buildings on the
existing Philander Smith College campus. The property is located in the Original
City of Little Rock and there is no bill of assurance addressing use issues.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested conditional use permit subject to
compliance with the following conditions:
1.Compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4, 5 and 6
of the agenda staff report.
2.The easements in the former street rights-of-way must be abandonment prior
to issuance of a building permit.
Staff recommends approval of a height variance to allow the proposed buildings
to exceed the R-4 zoning district height limit of 35 feet.
5
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-5675-C
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
The applicants were present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the
item and a recommendation of approval as noted in the "staff recommendation"
above. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent
agenda and approved as recommended by staff. The vote was 8 ayes, 0 noes,
1 absent and 2 open positions.
6
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 4 FILE NO.: G-25-204
Name: West Taylor Loop Road Name Change to LaMarche Drive
Location: West Taylor Loop Road, south from Cantrell Road
to The Curve
Petitioner: City of Little Rock
Request: To change the name of this portion of Taylor Loop Road to
LaMarche Drive.
Abutting Uses and Ownership:
A total of 16 single-family residences take a Taylor Loop Road address. Ten of those front
directly onto the street. Six others are located on private streets or driveways off of Taylor
Loop. The majority of the west side of the street is occupied by the new Little Rock School
District elementary school, which takes a Cantrell Road address. A church is located south
of the school. The church and an associated residence take a Taylor Loop Address.
Neighborhood Effect:
The 16 residences and church will be affected by the street name change. Ultimately, staff
believes the name change will result in less confusion for residents as the LaMarche/Taylor
Loop Road intersection will be more easily identifiable.
Neighborhood Position:
Notice of the proposed street name change was sent to all owners of properties abutting the
street and to the Coalition of West Little Rock Neighborhoods and Westchester-Heatherbrae
Neighborhood Association. As of this writing, staff has received correspondence from one
resident in opposition to the proposed name change.
Effect on Public Services:
No opposition has been voiced by any of the reviewing agencies or departments.
Staff Analysis:
The City of Little Rock is proposing to rename the west portion of Taylor Loop Road to
LaMarche Drive from Cantrell Road south to the curve. The change is being proposed to
address public safety concerns and to provide for consistency in new and existing street
names.
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-25-204
At this time, LaMarche Drive is connected to the south property line of Valley Falls Estates
Subdivision. Based on the adopted Master Street Plan and on recently approved plats and
right-of-way dedications, LaMarche Drive will be a through street all the way north to Cantrell
Road. Taylor Loop Road will terminate and connect with LaMarche Drive from the east as a
"T" style or a round-a-bout intersection. It is anticip ated that LaMarche Drive will be a primary
access point from Cantrell Road to serve properties to the south.
If the Taylor Loop Road portion is not changed, a stretch of street named Taylor Loop Road
will be located between LaMarche Drive on the north and south. Currently, the first phase of
LaMarche Drive on the north side of Cantrell Road is under construction. The immediate
plan is for Taylor Loop to remain the through street until the entire LaMarche Drive
connection is completed to the south.
Additionally, under this proposed change, there will no longer exist two (2) Cantrell
Road/Taylor Loop Road intersections, which should help to reduce confusion for emergency
response vehicles.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the requested street name change.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
The applicants were present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item
and a recommendation of approval as noted in the "staff recommendation" above. There
was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved as
recommended by staff. The vote was 8 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent and 2 open positions.
2
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 5 FILE NO.: G-25-205
Name: 12th Street Name Change to Bishop Leodies Warren Drive
Location: 12th Street from Scott Street to Fair Park Blvd.
Petitioner: Greater Christ Temple Pentecostal Church
Request: To change the name of this portion of 12th Street to Bishop
Leodies Warren Drive.
Abutting Uses and Ownership:
The proposal is to rename 60 blocks of 12th Street. Those 60 blocks contain a variety of
residential and nonresidential uses. Staff has determined that there are 217 addresses along
the street that will need to be changed.
Neighborhood Effect:
The addresses of 217 properties will be affected. The applicant has stated there are only 110
occupied addresses on this portion of the street. Of those 110 addresses, according to the
applicant, 40 are residences and 70 are businesses.
Neighborhood Position:
The applicant submitted a petition with 62 signatures of persons/businesses along 12th Street
who support the name change. The applicant has been advised to send notice to all 217
addresses, as determined by staff.
Staff sent notices to the following neighborhood associations: Fair Park, Oak Forest, War
Memorial, Forest Hills, Hope, Stephens Area Faith, Pine to Woodrow, Capitol Hill, Central
High, Downtown, MacArthur Park, East of Broadway/Pettaway and the University District.
As of this writing, staff has received two (2) letters of opposition.
Effect on Public Services:
Staff has not received any comments of opposition from reviewing agencies and departments
other than the following comments received from Public Works:
1.The proposed street name abbreviated to "Bp. Leodies Warren Drive" will not fit on the
maximum 9" and 18" street signs manufactured per MUTCD Guidelines.
2.The proposed street name change will affect 60 intersections. The cost of the
manufacturing of the new street signs and installation will be approximately $20,000.00.
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-25-205
3.Staff has determined 217 addresses along 12th Street will be required to be changed.
Staff does not have a break down of the # of residences, # of businesses, or # of other
types of developments.
4.The east/west streets are numbered and arranged in hundred block ranges for the
addressing system within the city limits. The proposed street name change to 12th Street
will be confusing to citizens and emergency services.
Staff Analysis:
The members of Greater Christ Temple Pentecostal Church located at 1200 Lewis Street
have submitted a petition requesting that the portion of 12'h Street from Scott Street to Fair
Park Blvd. be renamed for the church's former Pastor Bishop Emeritus Leodies Warren.
A petition with 62 signatures on it was submitted in support of the application. The applicant
stated there were 110 occupied address on 12th Street from Scott to Fair Park; 40 residences
and 70 businesses. The 62 signatures represent 55% of the occupied addresses.
Staff has concerns with the proposal. The technical concerns are outlined in the Public
Works Comments and include the difficulty of fitting the name on the signs, the cost to the
City of changing the street signs and the potential confusion that could result from the name
change.
Additionally, the City has been working on a citizen-driven initiative, "The 12th Street Corridor
Plan." This nearly two-year process has resulted in the development of a planning document,
which is scheduled to be presented to the Commission on December 17, 2009. At no point in
the process, was there consideration given to renaming the street. Staff believes the Plan
includes capitalizing and building on the sense of place and recognition that is achieved by
the 12th Street name.
12th Street is a well-recognized, highly trafficked east/west corridor, providing connectivity
between the western part of the City and downtown.
Staff could possibly support the renaming of a portion of one of the north/south streets
located near the church.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends denial of the request.
2
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-25-205
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
The applicants were present. There were three objectors present. Three letters of opposition
had been received by staff and forwarded to the Commission. Staff presented the item and a
recommendation of denial.
Louise Baltimore spoke on behalf of Greater Christ Temple Pentecostal Church. She stated
12th Street has had a negative reputation that could be changed by changing the street name.
She spoke of the positive impact and influence of Bishop Warren. Ms. Baltimore spoke of the
length of Bishop Warren's pastorate and of the services he had provided to the citizens of the
City, the State and the Nation.
Ruth Bell, of the League of Women Voters, spoke in opposition to the name change. She
stated the League had concerns about the confusion that could be caused by renaming a
portion of a major street. She suggested the City establish criteria for determining the
appropriateness of changing a street name.
Joe Busby, President of the Fair Park Residents Association, stated he agreed that Bishop
Warren was worthy of recognition for his good work but it was not appropriate to rename 12th
Street for him. Mr. Busby spoke of the cost to the City for changing the street signs and the
cost to the citizens who would have to do address changes. Mr. Busby stated that although
the 62 signatures gathered by Ms. Baltimore's group represented 55% of the 110 occupied
addresses on the street, they only represented 28% of the 217 total addresses. He noted
there were other churches on the street whose pastors also did good works. Mr. Busby
suggested, in the spirit of compromise, that the church look to changing the name of a portion
of Lewis Street.
Denise Johnson, owner of a business at 4000 W. 12th Street, spoke in opposition. She stated
she agreed with Mr. Busby that there were other churches on the street which have done
good works for the community. Ms. Johnson stated the church's address was 1200 Lewis
Street and the back of the church faced 12th Street. She suggested the church consider
asking to change the name of a portion of Lewis Street.
Jeff McRae stated he owned three businesses on 12th Street and he was opposed to
changing the street name.
Ms. Baltimore stated she sent notices to all 217 addresses as required by the subdivision
committee and 80 of the letters had been returned. She stated she and other church
members had walked 12th Street and had obtained the 62 signatures.
Commissioner Rouse stated he agreed with staff and asked Ms. Baltimore if she would
consider Lewis Street rather than 12th Street. Ms. Baltimore responded that they had worked
hard on 12th Street and the church wanted to name a major street for the Bishop, not a side
street. She said they had not considered Lewis Street.
3
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-25-205
Commissioner Rouse stated he commended the church for their work but he could not
support changing the name of 12th Street.
Commissioner Laha asked Ms. Baltimore if she had considered the cost of the street signs.
Ms. Baltimore responded that she did not think there were as many signs as staff indicated.
Commissioner Laha commented that doing a shortened version of the name for Bishop
Warren could be confusing since there were already two other "Warren" streets in town.
Commissioner Rouse encouraged Ms. Baltimore and her church to become involved with the
group working on the 12th Street Corridor Plan.
Commissioner Adcock commented that changing the street name would not change people's
perception of the area; that it took residents efforts such as the 12th Street Corridor Plan.
A motion was made to approve the application. The motion failed by a vote of 0 ayes, 8 noes,
1 absent and 2 open positions.
4
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 7 FILE NO.: LU09-11-01
Name: Land Use Plan Amendment - I-430 Planning District
Location: both sides of Kaufman Road, south of Kanis Road
Request: Office to Commercial
Source: John McKay, Rector, Phillips, Morse, Inc.
PROPOSAL/ REQUEST:
Land Use Plan amendment in the I-430 Planning District from Office to
Commercial. Commercial represents a broad range of retail and wholesale
services.
EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING:
The property is zoned O-3 General Office and is approximately 11 acres in size.
The site is partially used for seven single family residences and is partially
vacant. There is also a small cemetery in the southern portion of the amendment
site. The area to the west of this site is zoned O-2 with multiple conditional use
permits for the Arkansas Heart Hospital, two hotels, two banks, and two
restaurants. The area north of this amendment site is also zoned O-2 and has
long been used for the Farm Bureau offices. South and east of this site is
bounded by Interstate 430.
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN AND RECENT AMENDMENTS:
There has been one land use plan amendment in this vicinity since 2000.
Ordinance 20070 was approved in 2008 to change the property at the southwest
corner of Kanis and Shackleford Roads from Community Shopping to
Commercial. The southeast corner of that intersection was also proposed to
change from Office to Commercial, but the application was withdrawn.
This area is shown as Office on the Plan. Office is also shown immediately north
and south of this area. The area west of this amendment is shown as
Commercial and Suburban Office. The area east of this site is shown as
Suburban Office.
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 7 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-11-01
MASTER STREET PLAN:
Kanis and Shackleford Roads are both Minor Arterials on the Master Street Plan.
A Minor Arterial provides connections to and through an urban area and their
primary function is to provide short distance travel within the urbanized area.
Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and
pedestrians on these streets since they are Minor Arterials. These streets may
require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements for
entrances and exits to the site. Kaufman Road is a Local Street. The primary
function of a Local Street is to provide access to adjacent properties. Local
Streets which are abutted by non-residential zoning/use or more intensive zoning
than duplexes are considered as "Commercial Streets". These streets have a
design standard the same as a Collector.
BICYCLE PLAN:
There are no bike routes shown in this immediate vicinity.
PARKS:
According to the Master Parks Plan, this area is within eight blocks of a city park.
Camp Aldersgate is located just south of Interstate 430.
HISTORIC DISTRICTS:
There are no city recognized historic districts that would be affected by this
amendment.
CITY RECOGNIZED NEIGHBORHOOD ACTION PLAN:
This area is covered by the John Barrow Neighborhood Plan. Their Business
and Commercial Goal states: "To enhance the climate directed towards
encouraging new businesses and commercial establishments to located in the
area as well as retention of existing businesses."
ANALYSIS:
This amendment area is located along both sides of Kaufman Road, which is
just south of Kanis Road. This area has been shown on the Land Use Plan as
Office for more than ten years. This amendment would adq approximately
11 acres of new commercial use area, changing from Office to Commercial.
The amendment site is bounded on the east and south sides by Interstate 430.
This interstate has been designated as a scenic corridor, so any development in
this area must ensure the scenic views are protected.
2
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 7 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-11-01
This area of Little Rock has seen major growth in the last ten years. The land
along Shackleford south of I-430 has become a major community shopping
center and the neighborhood to the east of I-430 has seen a renewal of interest
with the influx of new development and growth. While Hicks Interurban is an
older subdivision, the neighborhood has seen 85 single family building permits
issued since 2000 between Aldersgate Road and Junior Deputy Road.
Kanis Road has long been developed as an office corridor, and the future land
use plan has aimed to keep the commercial uses along Kanis to the west of
Shackleford Road. There is still vacant and undeveloped land west of this site
that is shown as Commercial on the future land use plan and zoned for
commercial use. There does not seem to be a need for more commercial land in
this area. Commercial is already located at the northwest and southwest corners
of the Kanis/Shackleford intersection, and there is a non-conforming restaurant
use on the southeast corner.
While this area has been changing over the past ten to twenty years, the
amendment site has remained largely unchanged. It is still used as a residential
street with substandard road conditions. A small cemetery is located at the
southeastern portion of this amendment site, which will need to be factored in to
any future development.
Kaufman Road is also used as an access to the Heart Hospital back parking
lot. Any redevelopment of the land would have to take this into consideration.
This amendment site is in close proximity to a very busy intersection with high
volumes of western bound traffic. There is also concern about how a commercial
development would be configured on this site with limited access for retail use.
I-630 has been designated a scenic corridor, the area requesting a change prior
frontage is along the interstate. Retail and commercial uses tend to want more
signage which is counter to the goals of a scenic corridor. Staff has worked to
keep this portion of Kanis reserved for an office corridor and to keep the
commercial uses at the main intersections.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
Notices were sent to the following neighborhood association: John Barrow. Staff
has received no comments from area residents.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff bel.ieves the change is not appropriate.
3
I'\ December 17, 200&
ITEM NO.: 7 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU09-11-01
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
There being only eight Planning Commissioners present the Applicant requested
that the item be deferred until January 28, 2010. A motion was made to defer the
item to the January 28, 2010 Planning Commission meeting. By a vote of 8 for
and 0 against the item was deferred.
4
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 8
NAME: 12th Street Corridor Plan
REQUEST: Approval of Resolution of support
LO CATION: I-630 to 16th Street, University Avenue to Woodrow
SOURCE: 12th Street Corridor Steering Committee
GENERAL INFORMATION:
In the summer of 2007 City Director Ken Richardson decided bring together
business owners, neighborhood associations and residents in the 12th Street
Community to brainstorm and begin dialogue on ways to revitalize this area. It
was also recognized that there were several potential developments within and
around the area that could have a positive impact.
The Central Arkansas Library System was in the process of determining a site off
of 12th Street to build a new library that would be dedicated primarily to youth
activities. The Black Community Developers (BCD) were in initial planning stages
to raise money to build a new "Empowerment Center" which would provide
continued community services through its programs. The Little Rock Parks and
Recreation was looking at the possibility of purchasing land south of I-630 to
expand War Memorial Park along Jonesboro. UALR was undergoing its own
University District Plan to revitalize the areas surrounding the campus.
With a growing staff and lack of parking capacity, UAMS was interested in getting
their employees to live closer to work which possibly meant improving the
housing stock south of the interstate and creating a safer living environment. At
the time the neighboring Midtown Redevelopment District was underway and the
St. Mark Baptist Church was looking at a major expansion. Finally the City was
looking at purchasing property somewhere along 12th Street to build a new police
substation.
These were all very positive signs that such an endeavor could be successful
given proper planning. During initial discussion it was decided that the
boundaries for the corridor should be I-630 on the North side, 16th Street on the
south side, Woodrow on the east side and University on the West side. The
group soon decided that the best way to proceed with obtaining analysis and
guidance on how best to approach the idea of revitalization was to put out an
Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Planning Consultant that could help.
December 17, 2009
ITEM NO.: 8 (Cont.)
Director Richardson selected a diverse review committee to score and rank the
proposals that were submitted by at least seven different firms to make a
decision on who they felt would best provide the services that were needed for
this area. The Central Arkansas Library System, UAMS and the City of Little
Rock all provided funding for this endeavor. Crafton, Tull, Sparks & Associates,
Inc. was selected and the City entered into a 13 month long contract for the study
of the area which involved holding community meetings to obtain additional input
from residents as well as meet regularly with the steering committee. All of the
public meetings were attended by 60 to 80 people which was remarkable for this
type of project and showed the great interest of residents to finally see a
comprehensive revitalization plan put into action.
All of the recommendations, citizen input, and community needs have been put
into the final report that is being submitted. This is only an initial phase to making
these efforts become a reality.
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of a resolution supporting the Goals of the 12th Street
Corridor Plan.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 17, 2009)
Tony Bozynski, Planning Director, introduced the item and indicated there had
been a number of public meetings to develop the Plan and it was an inclusive
process. He then turned the presentation over to Dave Roberts and Julie Luther,
Crafton Tull Sparks, lead consultants for the plan.
Dave Roberts and Julie Luther reviewed the consulting team and process used
to develop the Plan. The intent is to create a sustainable livable neighborhood
with connectivity and self-identity. They identified some elements to help with
this and reviewed a method of development to encourage density, mixed
development, livability and vitality - focused on the way the area is developed
more than the use of the land. In addition, alternative road designs were
discussed and the next steps.
In response to questions, it was noted that items would come to the Commission
later on possible land use changes, street plan and related items. A motion was
made to approve the resolution of support for the Plan. By a vote of 8 for
0 against the item was approved.
2
RESOLUTION NO. ---------
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK, ARK ANSAS IN
SUPPORT OF THE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF
THE 12™ STREET CORRIDOR PLAN.
WHEREAS; the 12th Street Corridor Committee working with area residents, business
owners, religious leaders and other interested groups has developed the lih Street Corridor Plan
to help revitalize the neighborhoods and business areas of the Corridor; and,
WHEREAS, the 12th Street Corridor Committee engaged in a broad-based inclusive
process to develop a Plan for the area's future; and,
WHEREAS, the residents and other "stakeholders" in the area participated in several
public meetings to discuss and identify area concerns to include in the plan; and
WHEREAS, after several months of work, goals and objectives were developed and
presented to the residents, associations, business groups and other interested parties; and
WHEREAS, this Plan (Goals and Objectives) provides a way for both neighborhood
based groups and others working in and around the neighborhoods to advance the desires and
meet the needs of the residents;
WHEREAS, comprehensive planning must include not only interests of the
neighborhood immediately affected but the interests of the city as a whole; and
WHEREAS, local government encourages and supports neighborhood-based coalitions
that develop individual neighborhood organizations, articulate neighborhood views on
community-wide issues, and facilitated the planning process; and
WHEREAS, advocacy planning by neighborhoods is an acceptable and legitimate role
for citizens and professional planners,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS.
SECTION 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Little Rock does support the
vision and goals as expressed in the 12th Street Corridor Plan.
ADOPTED: ------------
SECRETARY CHAIRMAN
DATE \u. .. 17 '. 2-001
PLANNING COMMISSION VOTE RECORD
Ml;MBER
ADCOCK, PAM
CHANGOSE, W. "GOOSE"
FERSTL, J. T.
LAHA, TROY
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NUNNLEY, OBRAY JR. A RECTOR, WILLIAM
ROUSE, BILLY
SMITH, CANDICE
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YATES, JEFF
MEMBER
ADCOCK, PAM
CHANGOSE, W. "GOOSE"
FERSTL, J. T.
LAHA, TROY
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NUNNLEY, OBRAY JR.
RECTOR, WILLIAM
ROUSE, BILLY
SMITH, CANDICE
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__... Meeting Adjourned !, , l > P.M.
December 17, 2009
There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting
was adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
Date t/ 8/1�---+-7 -----.I.___ __
Secretary Chairman