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HomeMy WebLinkAboutZ-7381-A Staff AnalysisFILE NO.: Z -7381-A NAME: Heifer International Revised Long -form POD LOCATION: Located at 1 World Avenue DEVELOPER: Heifer International 1015 Louisiana Street Little Rock, AR 72202 ENGINEER: McClelland Consulting Engineers 900 West Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 ARCHITECT: Polk Stanley Yeary Architects, LTD 700 South Schiller Street Little Rock, AR 72201 AREA: 22 Acres CURRENT ZONING ALLOWED USES: NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 -W- FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF Heifer International Office Building and Future Global Village PROPOSED ZONING: Revised POD PROPOSED USE: Heifer International Office Building and Future Global Village — Educational Building VARIANCESIWAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested. BACKGROUND: Ordinance No. 18,903 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on August 4, 2003, rezoned this site from 1-3, Heavy Industrial District to POD. The proposal allowed this twenty-two acre site to be developed as the Heifer International Center, which would be developed in four phases. As each phase is developed, it was to be reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission and Board of Directors. FILE NO.: Z -7381-A Cont. The first phase was the construction of the headquarters building and associated parking. The building contained approximately 98,000 square feet with four floors of about 23,750 square feet each, and a basement level with 3,000 square feet. The initial occupancy of the building in early 2005 would be 250 employees, with an ultimate population planned of 450 employees in 2009. The Phase 1 development and related site development, included parking, to avoid the environmentally contaminated brownfield of the old railroad switching yard which bisected the site. The brownfield area would be re -mediated and reclaimed during the construction process to create an important component of Phase Two. The Phase One perimeter lies at the edge of this abandoned rail yard, and the new construction would sit on redeveloped ground where warehouses and industrial structures were being demolished. The Phase II Welcome Center Pavilion would contain dining facilities, galleries for temporary exhibits, a gift shop, and meeting/seminar spaces designed to serve and educate the public. The extensive use of recycled construction materials in the building structure, and placement within a constructed wetland on a reclaimed site that was formerly a brownfield, would demonstrate the environmental development strategies. The Pavilion would also provide support space and rest areas for activities in the Commons, as well as the entry/exit point for visitors to the Phase Three Global Village education experience. The Phase III portion of the development included the construction of the Global Village. The Phase Four development included the Global Solutions and Sustainable Farm Complex. The project would display and test the newest methods and technologies of environmentally responsible agricultural and livestock production. The applicant proposed environmentally friendly designs with regard to parking lot paving, landscaping, storm water collection and building design. The overall goal of the parking lot was to create new standard for parking lot design that was much more than just an area that holds vehicles. The parking lot would create an experience that combined educational and environmentally friendly additions to the site instead of the more common large concrete or asphalt slab. The parking lot would be designed using a variety of surfaces to showcase different materials and to include creative ideas on storm water runoff and collection. The Little Rock Code required all parking lots to be surfaced with concrete or asphalt. The Heifer project was designed with a 51% permeable parking lot surface. The permeable surfaces would include brick pavers and reinforced gravel paving products that help the storm water runoff permeate back into the groundwater tables. These products helped eliminate many of the common storm water runoff problems that are generated by impervious surfaces such as concrete and asphalt. The permeable surface would be primarily limited to the light vehicular areas of the site_ The site would also incorporate impervious pavements such as traditional reinforced concrete and a relatively new product, resinpave. The reinforced concrete would be the primary surface for all locations where heavy vehicular traffic would be expected. The resinpave would be used as an environmentally friendly substitute for asphalt and would be limited to locations where light vehicular loads were planned. The parking lot would be designed for 199 vehicles and would include six handicapped spaces and a variety of other dedicated spaces for carpooling alternative fuel and electric car spaces. 2 FILE NO.: Z-7381-A(Cont.) In addition to the creative use of the materials in the parking lot, the parking lot would serve a second purpose. The parking area would serve as a storm water filter and harvesting system. The plans showed how the parking area would collect, filter and capture the surface water and then harvest it for different uses on the site. The pervious surfaces would significantly decrease the storm water runoff. The water would then travel through the filter media and migrate on the surface and through the subgrade to landscaped areas called bioswales. The bioswales would further the filtration process and also serve as small detention areas that would hold the water before collected in traditional storm drainage structures and piping. The filtered storm water will then be transmitted by conventional methods to a lift station and a basin that would store storm water for irrigation and other uses. The basin would also serve as a source for most of the water necessary to maintain the constructed wetlands and water channels that surround a portion of the office building. The building was designed to use 51 % less energy than a conventional office building of similar program and size. The building's shape takes advantage of the solar orientation by stretching in an east/west direction, which allowed for the greatest amount of sunlight into the building throughout daylight hours in each season. A. PROPOSAUREQUEST: The applicant is now proposing an amendment to the previously approved POD to allow the Phase II Welcome Center Pavilion, additional parking and outdoor education areas to be constructed. The Welcome Center Pavilion will contain dining facilities, galleries for temporary exhibits, a gift shop and meeting/seminary spaces designed to serve and educate the public. The extensive use of recyclable construction materials in the building structure, and placement within a constructed wetland on a reclaimed site that was formerly a brownfield, will demonstrate the potential and tangible results of employing "smart" design and responsible planning as model environmental development strategies. The Pavilion will also provide support space and rest areas for activities in the Commons, as well as the entry/exit point for visitors to the future Phase Three Global Village educational experience. The building is one story containing 16,026 square feet. The Commons area is approximately 1.3 acre circular outdoor area at the center of the Heifer International World Headquarters Campus. The area is the symbolic radiant point for the entire campus development representing the center and beginning of the "concentric circles of influence" concept which is the site planning design guide which sets the layout of buildings, walks, parking and landscaping elements. The Commons is primarily a sodded grass area to be used for outdoor special events, education and gathering of Heifer and public groups. In the very center of the commons is a paved area which includes the Heifer "Cornerstones" representing the values of Heifer International. 3 FILE NO.: Z -7381-A (Cont. A brick walk leads through the Commons from the Auto Court and includes the placement of inscribed Donor Recognition brick pavers. At the north edge of the Commons is a grove of Pecan Trees which will be a shaded outdoor gathering area for education and respite from the open grass areas of the Commons. This area will have a floor of crushed pecan shells, and crushed lime store. The North Wetland is the northern extension of the Phase One Wetlands which encircle the Headquarters Building. The North Wetland is approximately .60 acres. The wetlands were conceived to demonstrate Heifer's commitment to water conservation and to restore historic wetlands that existed on this site. The wetlands capture and store rainwater from the site and buildings. The wetlands contain aquatic plants which filter pollutants from the water and help control insects. The North Wetlands will feature a Tupelo Marsh and boardwalks which extend into the wetlands areas from educational viewing experiences. The Auto Court is an approximately 10,000 square foot vehicular circular turnaround and drop off area for visitors to the Educational Center and future Global Village. This court is the extension of 3rd Street and serves as the primary Pubic Entrance to the Heifer International World Headquarters Campus. Primary identification and directional signage will be placed at the perimeter of this area. The Donor brick paver walk leading directly to the educational Center extends into and from the Auto Court. The parking lot will continue the environmentally friendly design principles set forth in the first phase of the project. The parking areas will include again the permeable reinforced gravel surfaces, bioswales and concrete paving that was constructed in the first phase. The drainage will be captured and routed to the initial system created for capture and reuse of the on site storm water. The Agroecology Education area is an approximately .750 acre area at the Northwest corner of the site which will be used to demonstrate sustainable agriculture systems and practices. This area provides hands on experience with agricultural processes and approaches which Heifer fosters and encourages around the world. This area will include terraced fields, rotational crop rows, raised bed gardens and flat planted and grazed areas. All of these planted areas will be integrated with the site collected rainwater and the North Wetland which it borders. This area will be planted and managed by Heifer staff and volunteers and the public volunteer groups. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The office building and parking lot for the first phase have been completed. The President Clinton Library project has also been completed to the northwest of the site. World Avenue has been constructed to Shall Street to Master Street Plan 0 FILE NO.: Z -7381-A Cont. standard. There is a trolley stop located at the corner of World Avenue and 3rd Street. To the north of the site are various uses including the County Health Unit and a office uses. Other uses to the north include vacant R-4 zoned property and the Fraternal Order of the Police Lodge. To the east of the site are large warehouse distribution facilities; 3 State Supply Company and Harbor Distributing. Uses to the south are also a mix of warehouse wholesale supply companies. East of the site are wholesale warehouse activities including Sterling Paint, a plumbing supply company and an electrical supply company. The Arkansas Democrat Gazette printing facility is located to the east of the Presidential Library. C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS: The Hanger Hill and East Little Rock Neighborhood Associations along with all owners of property located within 200 -feet of the site and all residents located within 300 -feet of the site, who could be identified, were notified of the Public Hearing. As of this writing, staff has not received any comments from area residents. D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS: PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS: 1. The 60 foot right-of-way for World Avenue must be dedicated to the City of Little Rock. 2. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of construction. 3. A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c) and (d) will be required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Site grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction. 4. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. 5. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. Since World Avenue is a minor arterial street, the proposed driveway should be located at least 300 feet from the intersecting right-of-way of 3rd and World Avenue. The width of driveway must not exceed 36 feet. 6. Provide a letter prepared by a registered engineer certifying the sight distance of the proposed driveway comply with 2004 AASHTO Green Book standards. Contact Nat Banihatti at 379-1818 for further assistance. 5 FILE NO.: Z -7381-A (Cont. E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING: Wastewater: Extension of existing private sewer system required to serve the project. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information. Entergy: Approved as submitted. Center -Point Energy: Approved as submitted. AT & T: No comment received. Central Arkansas Water: 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. Additional fire hydrant(s) and on-site fire protection will be required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department to obtain information regarding the required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). This development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution system. Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate pressure and fire protection. Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department for additional information. County Planning: No comment. CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route. F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN- Planning Division: This request is located in the 1-30 Planning District. The Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use Urban for this property. The applicant has applied for a revised Long -form Planned Office Development to allow the construction of an educational facility on the site. The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan. Master Street Plan: World Avenue is shown as a Minor Arterial 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. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may [:1 FILE NO.: Z -7381-A (Cont. require street improvements for entrances and exits to the site. This street may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements. Bic cle Plan: A Class I bike route is shown along World Avenue. A Class bikeway is built separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of way may be required. Citv Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood action plan. Landscape: 1. The site plan must comply with the City's minimal landscape and buffer ordinance requirements. 2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required. 3. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect. G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (September 6, 2007) The applicant was present. Staff presented an overview of the proposed development stating there were few outstanding technical issues associated with the request. Staff stated a dedication of World Avenue was required. Staff also requested information concerning the proposed bioswales. Pubic Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the driveway locations and widths did not meet traffic access and circulation requirements. Staff also stated a grading permit would be required prior to construction on the site. Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated an automatic irrigation system would be required to water landscaped areas. Staff also stated a landscape plan would be required prior to the issuance of a building permit. Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action. H. ANALYSIS: The applicant submitted a revised plan to staff addressing the issues raised by staff and the Subdivision Committee members at the September 6, 2007, 7 FILE NO.: Z -7381-A (Cont. committee meeting. The applicant has removed the eastern -most driveway location as requested by staff. The applicant is proposing an amendment to the previously approved POD to allow the Welcome Center Pavilion to be constructed. The Welcome Center Pavilion will contain dining facilities, galleries for temporary exhibits, a gift shop and meeting/seminary spaces designed to serve and educate the public. The Pavilion will also provide support space and rest areas for activities in the Commons, as well as the entry/exit point for visitors to the future Phase Three Global Village educational experience. The building is one story containing 16,026 square feet. During this phase of development the Commons area will be completed. The Commons area is approximately 1.3 acre circular outdoor area at the center of the campus. The area is the symbolic radiant point for the entire campus development representing the center and beginning of the "concentric circles of influence" concept which is the site planning design guide which sets the layout of buildings, walks, parking and landscaping elements. This area is primarily a sodded grass area to be used for outdoor special events, education and gathering of Heifer and public groups. In the very center of the commons is a paved area which includes the Heifer "Cornerstones" representing the values of Heifer International. A brick walk leads through the Commons from the auto court. At the north edge of the Commons is a grove of Pecan Trees which will be a shaded outdoor gathering area for education and respite from the open grass areas of the Commons. This area will have a floor of crushed pecan shells, and crushed lime store. The North Wetland is the northern extension of the Phase One Wetlands which encircle the Headquarters Building. The North Wetland is approximately .60 acres. The wetlands were conceived to demonstrate Heifer's commitment to water conservation and to restore historic wetlands that existed on this site. The wetlands capture and store rainwater from the site and buildings. The wetlands contain aquatic plants which filter pollutants from the water and help control insects. The North Wetlands will feature a Tupelo Marsh and boardwalks which extend into the wetlands areas from educational viewing experiences. The Agroecology Education area is an approximately .750 acre area at the Northwest corner of the site which will be used to demonstrate sustainable agriculture systems and practices. This area provides hands on experience with agricultural processes and approaches which Heifer fosters and encourages around the world. This area will include terraced fields, rotational crop rows, raised bed gardens and flat planted and grazed areas. All of these planted areas will be integrated with the site collected rainwater and the North Wetland which it borders. The auto court is an approximately 10,000 square foot vehicular circular turnaround and drop off area for visitors to the Educational Center and future Global Village. This court is the extension of 3rd Street and serves as the primary H; FILE NO.: Z -7381-A (Cont. Pubic Entrance to the Heifer International World Headquarters Campus. Primary identification and directional signage will be placed at the perimeter of this area consistent with signage allowed per the zoning ordinance. The previous phase allowed for the construction of 199 parking spaces. The total square footage of the Heifer International Office Building constructed in the first phase is 95,000 square feet. The new development will add 16,026 square feet and 229 parking spaces for a total of 428 parking spaces. The typical minimum parking required for a development of this type would be 277 parking spaces. The parking is more than adequate to serve the proposed development. The parking lot will continue the environmentally friendly design principles set forth in the first phase of the project. The parking areas will include again the permeable reinforced gravel surfaces, bioswales and concrete paving that was constructed in the first phase. The drainage will be captured and routed to the initial system created for capture and reuse of the on site storm water. The applicant has indicated wheel stops will be placed on the site to protect landscaped areas. The applicant has also indicated an irrigation system will be provided to water landscaped areas. The applicant is requested a reduced street buffer along World Avenue. The required minimum width of the street buffer is fifteen feet and nine inches. The width is proposed to match the previously approved landscape strip. Staff is supportive of the request to reduce the landscape in this area as requested by the applicant. Staff is supportive of the request to revise the previously approved POD to allow Heifer International to construct the Phase II portion of their previously approved conceptual plan; an educational building and associated parking. To Staff's knowledge, there are no outstanding issues associated with the proposed request. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the requested POD subject to compliance with the conditions outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of this report. Staff recommends approval of the request to allow a reduced buffer along the World Avenue to match the previously approved landscape strip. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 27, 2007) The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommends of approval of the request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the agenda staff report. Staff also presented a recommendation of approval of the request to allow 9 FILE NO.: Z -7381-A (Cont. a reduced buffer along the World Avenue to match the previously approved landscape strip. There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent and 1 open position. 10 September 27, 2007 ITEM NO.: NAME: Heifer International Revised Long -form POD LOCATION: Located at 1 World Avenue DEVELOPER: Heifer International 1015 Louisiana Street Little Rock, AR 72202 ENGINEER: McClelland Consulting Engineers 900 West Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 AR(..I-IITFrT- Polk Stanley Yeary Architects, LTD 700 South Schiller Street Little Rock, AR 72201 AREA: 22 Acres CURRENT ZONING ALLOWED USES PROPOSED ZONING PROPOSED USE: — Educational Building NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 -•- FILE NO.: Z -7381-A FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF Heifer International Office Building and Future Global Village Revised POD Heifer International Office Building and Future Global Village VARIAN CESNVAIVERS REQUESTED: None requested. BACKGROUND: Ordinance No. 18,903 adopted by the Little Rock Board of Directors on August 4, 2003, rezoned this site from 1-3, Heavy Industrial District to POD. The proposal allowed this twenty-two acre site to be developed as the Heifer International Center, which would be September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) _ FILE NO.: Z -7381-A developed in four phases. As each phase is developed, it was to be reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission and Board of Directors. The first phase was the construction of the headquarters building and associated parking. The building contained approximately 98,000 square feet with four floors of about 23,750 square feet each, and a basement level with 3,000 square feet. The initial occupancy of the building in early 2005 would be 250 employees, with an ultimate population planned of 450 employees in 2009. The Phase I development and related site development, included parking, to avoid the environmentally contaminated brownfield of the old railroad switching yard which bisected the site. The brownfield area would be re -mediated and reclaimed during the construction process to create an important component of Phase Two. The Phase One perimeter lies at the edge of this abandoned rail yard, and the new construction would sit on redeveloped ground where warehouses and industrial structures were being demolished. The Phase Il Welcome Center Pavilion would contain dining facilities, galleries for temporary exhibits, a gift shop, and meeting/seminar spaces designed to serve and educate the public. The extensive use of recycled construction materials in the building structure, and placement within a constructed wetland on a reclaimed site that was formerly a brownfield, would demonstrate the environmental development strategies. The Pavilion would also provide support space and rest areas for activities in the Commons, as well as the entry/exit point for visitors to the Phase Three Global Village education experience. The Phase III portion of the development included the construction of the Global Village. The Phase Four development included the Global Solutions and Sustainable Farm Complex. The project would display and test the newest methods and technologies of environmentally responsible agricultural and livestock production. The applicant proposed environmentally friendly designs with regard to parking lot paving, landscaping, storm water collection and building design. The overall goal of the parking lot was to create new standard for parking lot design that was much more than just an area that holds vehicles. The parking lot would create an experience that combined educational and environmentally friendly additions to the site instead of the more common large concrete or asphalt slab. The parking lot would be designed using a variety of surfaces to showcase different materials and to include creative ideas on storm water runoff and collection. The Little Rock Code required all parking lots to be surfaced with concrete or asphalt. The Heifer project was designed with a 51% permeable parking lot surface. The permeable surfaces would include brick pavers and reinforced gravel paving products that help the storm water runoff permeate back into the groundwater tables. These products helped eliminate many of the common storm water runoff problems that are generated by impervious surfaces such as concrete and asphalt. The permeable surface would be primarily limited to the light vehicular areas of the site. The site would also incorporate impervious pavements such as traditional reinforced concrete and a relatively new product, resinpave. The reinforced concrete would be the primary surface for all locations where heavy vehicular traffic would be expected. The resinpave would be used as an environmentally friendly substitute for asphalt and would be limited to locations where light vehicular loads were planned. The 2 September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -7381-A parking lot would be designed for 199 vehicles and would include six handicapped spaces and a variety of other dedicated spaces for carpooling alternative fuel and electric car spaces. In addition to the creative use of the materials in the parking lot, the parking lot would serve a second purpose. The parking area would serve as a storm water filter and harvesting system. The plans showed how the parking area would collect, filter and capture the surface water and then harvest it for different uses on the site. The pervious surfaces would significantly decrease the storm water runoff. The water would then travel through the filter media and migrate on the surface and through the subgrade to landscaped areas called bioswales. The bioswales would further the filtration process and also serve as small detention areas that would hold the water before collected in traditional storm drainage structures and piping. The filtered storm water will then be transmitted by conventional methods to a lift station and a basin that would store storm water for irrigation and other uses. The basin would also serve as a source for most of the water necessary to maintain the constructed wetlands and water channels that surround a portion of the office building. The building was designed to use 51 % less energy than a conventional office building of similar program and size. The building's shape takes advantage of the solar orientation by stretching in an east/west direction, which allowed for the greatest amount of sunlight into the building throughout daylight hours in each season. A. PROPOSAUREQUEST: The applicant is now proposing an amendment to the previously approved POD to allow the Phase II Welcome Center Pavilion, additional parking and outdoor education areas to be constructed. The Welcome Center Pavilion will contain dining facilities, galleries for temporary exhibits, a gift shop and meeting/seminary spaces designed to serve and educate the public. The extensive use of recyclable construction materials in the building structure, and placement within a constructed wetland on a reclaimed site that was formerly a brownfield, will demonstrate the potential and tangible results of employing "smart" design and responsible planning as model environmental development strategies. The Pavilion will also provide support space and rest areas for activities in the Commons, as well as the entry/exit point for visitors to the future Phase Three Global Village educational experience. The building is one story containing 16,026 square feet. The Commons area is approximately 1.3 acre circular outdoor area at the center of the Heifer International World Headquarters Campus. The area is the symbolic radiant point for the entire campus development representing the center and beginning of the "concentric circles of influence" concept which is the site planning design guide which sets the layout of buildings, walks, parking and landscaping elements. 3 September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont. FILE NO.: Z -7381-A The Commons is primarily a sodded grass area to be used for outdoor special events, education and gathering of Heifer and public groups. In the very center of the commons is a paved area which includes the Heifer "Cornerstones" representing the values of Heifer International. A brick walk leads through the Commons from the Auto Court and includes the placement of inscribed Donor Recognition brick pavers. At the north edge of the Commons is a grove of Pecan Trees which will be a shaded outdoor gathering area for education and respite from the open grass areas of the Commons. This area will have a floor of crushed pecan shells, and crushed lime store. The North Wetland is the northern extension of the Phase One Wetlands which encircle the Headquarters Building. The North Wetland is approximately .60 acres. The wetlands were conceived to demonstrate Heifer's commitment to water conservation and to restore historic wetlands that existed on this site. The wetlands capture and store rainwater from the site and buildings. The wetlands contain aquatic plants which filter pollutants from the water and help control insects. The North Wetlands will feature a Tupelo Marsh and boardwalks which extend into the wetlands areas from educational viewing experiences. The Auto Court is an approximately 10,000 square foot vehicular circular turnaround and drop off area for visitors to the Educational Center and future Global Village. This court is the extension of 3rd Street and serves as the primary Pubic Entrance to the Heifer International World Headquarters Campus. Primary identification and directional signage will be placed at the perimeter of this area. The Donor brick paver walk leading directly to the educational Center extends into and from the Auto Court. The parking lot will continue the environmentally friendly design principles set forth in the first phase of the project. The parking areas will include again the permeable reinforced gravel surfaces, bioswales and concrete paving that was constructed in the first phase. The drainage will be captured and routed to the initial system created for capture and reuse of the on site storm water. The Agroecology Education area is an approximately .750 acre area at the Northwest corner of the site which will be used to demonstrate sustainable agriculture systems and practices. This area provides hands on experience with agricultural processes and approaches which Heifer fosters and encourages around the world. This area will include terraced fields, rotational crop rows, raised bed gardens and flat planted and grazed areas. All of these planted areas will be integrated with the site collected rainwater and the North Wetland which it 0 September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z -7381-A borders. This area will be planted and managed by Heifer staff and volunteers and the public volunteer groups. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The office building and parking lot for the first phase have been completed. The President Clinton Library project has also been completed to the northwest of the site. World Avenue has been constructed to Shall Street to Master Street Plan standard. There is a trolley stop located at the corner of World Avenue and 3rd Street. To the north of the site are various uses including the County Health Unit and a office uses. Other uses to the north include vacant R-4 zoned property and the Fraternal Order of the Police Lodge. To the east of the site are large warehouse distribution facilities; 3 State Supply Company and Harbor Distributing. Uses to the south are also a mix of warehouse wholesale supply companies. East of the site are wholesale warehouse activities including Sterling Paint, a plumbing supply company and an electrical supply company. The Arkansas Democrat Gazette printing facility is located to the east of the Presidential Library. C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS: The Hanger Hill and East Little Rock Neighborhood Associations along with all owners of property located within 200 -feet of the site and all residents located within 300 -feet of the site, who could be identified, were notified of the Public Hearing. As of this writing, staff has not received any comments from area residents. D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS: PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS: 1. The 60 foot right-of-way for World Avenue must be dedicated to the City of Little Rock. 2. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of construction. 3. A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c) and (d) will be required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Site grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction. 4. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property - 5 September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont. E_ FILE NO.: Z -7381-A 5. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. Since World Avenue is a minor arterial street, the proposed driveway should be located at least 300 feet from the intersecting right-of-way of 3rd and World Avenue. The width of driveway must not exceed 36 feet. 6. Provide a letter prepared by a registered engineer certifying the sight distance of the proposed driveway comply with 2004 AASHTO Green Book standards. Contact Nat Banihatti at 379-1818 for further assistance. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING: Wastewater: Extension of existing private sewer system required to serve the project. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information. Entergy: Approved as submitted. Center -Point Energy: Approved as submitted. AT & T: No comment received. Central Arkansas Water: 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. Additional fire hydrant(s) and on-site fire protection will be required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department to obtain information regarding the required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). This development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution system. Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate pressure and fire protection. Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department for additional information. County Planning: No comment. CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route. n September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont. F. ISSUES/TECHNICAL/DESIGN: FILE NO.: Z -7381-A Planning Division_: This request is located in the 1-30 Planning District. The Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use Urban for this property. The applicant has applied for a revised Long -form Planned Office Development to allow the construction of an educational facility on the site. The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan. Master Street Plan: World Avenue is shown as a Minor Arterial 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. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to the site. This street may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements. Bicycle Plan: A Class I bike route is shown along World Avenue. A Class I bikeway is built separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of way may be required. City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood action plan. Landscape: 1. The site plan must comply with the City's minimal landscape and buffer ordinance requirements. 2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required. 3. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect. G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (September 6, 2007) The applicant was present. Staff presented an overview of the proposed development stating there were few outstanding technical issues associated with the request. Staff stated a dedication of World Avenue was required. Staff also requested information concerning the proposed bioswales. 7 September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 (Cont. FILE NO.: Z-7381 -A Pubic Works comments were addressed. Staff stated the driveway locations and widths did not meet traffic access and circulation requirements. Staff also stated a grading permit would be required prior to construction on the site. Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated an automatic irrigation system would be required to water landscaped areas. Staff also stated a landscape plan would be required prior to the issuance of a building permit. Staff noted comments from the various other reporting departments and agencies suggesting the applicant contact them directly for additional information and clarification. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action. H. ANALYSIS: The applicant submitted a revised plan to staff addressing the issues raised by staff and the Subdivision Committee members at the September 6, 2007, committee meeting. The applicant has removed the eastern -most driveway location as requested by staff. The applicant is proposing an amendment to the previously approved POD to allow the Welcome Center Pavilion to be constructed. The Welcome Center Pavilion will contain dining facilities, galleries for temporary exhibits, a gift shop and meeting/seminary spaces designed to serve and educate the public. The Pavilion will also provide support space and rest areas for activities in the Commons, as well as the entry/exit point for visitors to the future Phase Three Global Village educational experience. The building is one story containing 16,026 square feet. During this phase of development the Commons area will be completed. The Commons area is approximately 1.3 acre circular outdoor area at the center of the campus. The area is the symbolic radiant point for the entire campus development representing the center and beginning of the "concentric circles of influence" concept which is the site planning design guide which sets the layout of buildings, walks, parking and landscaping elements. This area is primarily a sodded grass area to be used for outdoor special events, education and gathering of Heifer and public groups. In the very center of the commons is a paved area which includes the Heifer "Cornerstones" representing the values of Heifer International. A brick walk leads through the Commons from the auto court. At the north edge of the Commons is a grove of Pecan Trees which will be a shaded outdoor gathering area for education and respite from the open grass areas of the Commons. This area will have a floor of crushed pecan shells, and crushed lime store. The North Wetland is the northern extension of the Phase One Wetlands which encircle the Headquarters Building. The North Wetland is approximately September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9(Cont.)FILE NO.: Z -7381-A .60 acres. The wetlands were conceived to demonstrate Heifer's commitment to water conservation and to restore historic wetlands that existed on this site. The wetlands capture and store rainwater from the site and buildings. The wetlands contain aquatic plants which filter pollutants from the water and help control insects. The North Wetlands will feature a Tupelo Marsh and boardwalks which extend into the wetlands areas from educational viewing experiences. The Agroecology Education area is an approximately .750 acre area at the Northwest corner of the site which will be used to demonstrate sustainable agriculture systems and practices. This area provides hands on experience with agricultural processes and approaches which Heifer fosters and encourages around the world. This area will include terraced fields, rotational crop rows, raised bed gardens and flat planted and grazed areas. All of these planted areas will be integrated with the site collected rainwater and the North Wetland which it borders. The auto court is an approximately 10,000 square foot vehicular circular turnaround and drop off area for visitors to the Educational Center and future Global Village. This court is the extension of 3rd Street and serves as the primary Pubic Entrance to the Heifer International World Headquarters Campus. Primary identification and directional signage will be placed at the perimeter of this area consistent with signage allowed per the zoning ordinance. The previous phase allowed for the construction of 199 parking spaces. The total square footage of the Heifer International Office Building constructed in the first phase is 95,000 square feet. The new development will add 16,026 square feet and 229 parking spaces for a total of 428 parking spaces. The typical minimum parking required for a development of this type would be 277 parking spaces. The parking is more than adequate to serve the proposed development. The parking lot will continue the environmentally friendly design principles set forth in the first phase of the project. The parking areas will include again the permeable reinforced gravel surfaces, bioswales and concrete paving that was constructed in the first phase. The drainage will be captured and routed to the initial system created for capture and reuse of the on site storm water. The applicant has indicated wheel stops will be placed on the site to protect landscaped areas. The applicant has also indicated an irrigation system will be provided to water landscaped areas. The applicant is requested a reduced street buffer along World Avenue. The required minimum width of the street buffer is fifteen feet and nine inches. The width is proposed to match the previously approved landscape strip. Staff is supportive of the request to reduce the landscape in this area as requested by the applicant. 9 September 27, 2007 SUBDIVISION ITEM NO.: 9 Cont. FILE NO.: Z -7381-A Staff is supportive of the request to revise the previously approved POD to allow Heifer International to construct the Phase II portion of their previously approved conceptual plan; an educational building and associated parking. To Staffs knowledge, there are no outstanding issues associated with the proposed request. 1. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of the requested POD subject to compliance with the conditions outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of this report. Staff recommends approval of the request to allow a reduced buffer along the World Avenue to match the previously approved landscape strip. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (SEPTEMBER 27, 2007) The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff presented the item with a recommends of approval of the request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraphs D, E and F of the agenda staff report. Staff also presented a recommendation of approval of the request to allow a reduced buffer along the World Avenue to match the previously approved landscape strip. There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for placement of the item on the consent agenda for approval. The motion carried by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes, 1 absent and 1 open position. 10 NO.: 9. Z-7381 -A NAME: Heifer International Revised Long -form POD LOCATION: located at 1 World Avenue Planning Staff Comments: 1. Provide notification of property owners located within 200 -feet of the site, complete with the certified abstract list, notice form with affidavit executed and proof of mailing. The notice must be mailed no later than September 12, 2007. The Office of Planning and Development must receive the proof of notice no later than September 21, 2007. 2. The request includes the allowance for the placement of permeable parking surface within the parking stall area of the parking lot and to allow the placement of wheel stops in -lieu of curb and gutter within the parking lot area. 3. A dedication plat for World Avenue is required. 4. Provide details of the bio-swales. 5. Provide the total building square footage proposed for the new structure and the total square footage of the existing structure. Variance/Waivers: None requested. Public Works Conditions: 1. The 60 foot right-of-way for World Avenue must be dedicated to the City of Little Rock. 2. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of construction. 3. A grading permit in accordance with Section 29-186 (c) and (d) will be required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Site grading, and drainage plans will need to be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction. 4. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. 5. Driveway locations and widths do not meet the traffic access and circulation requirements of Sections 30-43 and 31-210. Since World Avenue is a minor arterial street, the proposed driveway should be located at least 300 feet from the intersecting right-of-way of 3 d and World Avenue. The width of driveway must not exceed 36 feet. 6. Provide a letter prepared by a registered engineer certifying the sight distance of the proposed driveway comply with 2004 AASHTO Green Book standards. Contact Nat Banihatti at 379-1818 for further assistance. Utilities and Fire Department/County Planning: Wastewater: Extension of existing private sewer system required to serve the project. Contact Little Rock Wastewater Utility at 688-1414 for additional information. Item # 9. Entergy: No comment received. Center -Point Ener : No comment received. AT & T: No comment received. Central Arkansas Water: 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. Additional fire hydrant(s) and on-site fire protection will be required. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department to obtain information regarding the required placement of the hydrant(s) and contact Central Arkansas Water regarding procedures for installation of the hydrant(s). This development will have minor impact on the existing water distribution system. Proposed water facilities will be sized to provide adequate pressure and fire protection. Fire Department: Place fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock Fire Department for additional information. County Planning: No comment. CATA: The site is not located on a dedicated CATA Bus Route. Planning Division: This request is located in the 1-30 Planning District. The Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use Urban for this property. The applicant has applied for a revised Long -form Planned Office Development to allow the construction of an educational facility on the site. The request does not require a change to the Land Use Plan. Master Street Plan: World Avenue is shown as a Minor Arterial 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. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to the site. This street may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements. Bicycle Plan: A Class I bike route is shown along World Avenue. A Class I bikeway is built separate from or alongside a road. Additional paving and right of way may be required. City Recognized Neighborhood Action Plan: The property under review is not located in an area covered by a City of Little Rock recognized neighborhood action plan. Landscape: Item # 9. 1. The site plan must comply with the City's minimal landscape and buffer ordinance requirements. 2. An automatic irrigation system to water landscaped areas will be required. 3. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, it will be necessary to provide an approved landscape plan stamped with the seal of a Registered Landscape Architect. Revised plat/pi Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plat/plan (to include the additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, September 12, 2007. Item # 9.