HomeMy WebLinkAboutZ-8998 Staff AnalysisFILE NO.: Z-8998
NAME: MEMS Headquarters Short -form PD-O
LOCATION: Located at 1022 West 8th Street
DEVELOPER:
MEMS
Metropolitan Emergency Medical Service
1022 West 8th Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
FNr,INFFR-
Cromwell Architects Engineers
101 South Spring Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
AREA: 3.13 acres NUMBER OF LOTS: 1 zoning lot FT. NEW STREET: 0 LF
CURRENT ZONING: UU, Urban Use District
ALLOWED USES:
PROPOSED ZONING
Residential, Office, Commercial and Industrial — all inside
PROPOSED USE: Ambulance service, headquarters post
VARIANCEMAIVERS: None requested.
A. PROPOSAUREQUEST/APPLICANT'S STATEMENT:
On a previous occasion Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services (MEMS),
appeared before the Planning Commission to present the Master Plan for the
MEMS campus. This filing represents the first phase of implementation of the
Master Plan. As part of the planning several key points are needed for
construction of a new secure campus; located south of 8th Street and between 8th
and 7th Streets and Ringo and Cross Streets.
• First, the existing MEMS Main Building, built in 1985, was not designed to
withstand the significant wind or seismic loads required for a facility
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
housing essential public services. In order to place MEMS in a good
position for the future, a structurally sound, code compliant Headquarters
building is critical to the organization's continued success.
• Second, the existing MEMS Headquarters Building currently sits on land
leased from the Arkansas State Highway Department (AHTD).
Theoretically, AHTD could choose to cancel or not renew the lease. While
this is unlikely it does make MEMS vulnerable to future changes in use
along the 1-630 corridor.
• Third, due to Operational and Training functions within the MEMS
organization, additional land would be required for an ambulance vehicular
use area and employee parking. MEMS has acquired additional acreage
for the purposes of vehicular use and parking after the 2012 presentation
to the Planning Commission.
• Fourth, due to growth of the metropolitan area and an increase in services
provided (for example, the dispatching and coordination function of the
Arkansas Trauma System) by MEMS, more and larger building spaces are
required.
• Fifth, MEMS is a 24/7 operation, with employees moving about the
campus at all hours. MEMS long ago outgrew the original secure, fenced
compound. There have been increasing security concerns for MEMS
employees.
On the site plan, the new headquarters building is shown in the southwest corner
of Block 289, setback from the property line to allow for the width of the spread
footing. Directly to the north is the visitor and 8 to 5 employee parking lot of
29 regular spaces and 4 ADA compliant parking spaces, surrounded by an
ornamental metal fence and appropriate landscape screening. MEMS currently
has this proposed parking area enrolled as a brownfield site with Arkansas
Department of Environmental Quality (AEDQ) due to the presence of
dry-cleaning chemicals beneath the grounds surface. Building or disturbing the
earth's surface with anything other than parking on this portion of the site is not
possible due to the agreement with ADEQ. To the east of the headquarters
building is the vehicular use area for ambulances and other MEMS support
vehicles. This includes five covered drive-thru bays for ambulance cleaning and
resupply. The parking shown in the southeast corner of Block 289, is exclusively
for parking of ambulance trucks. Between every two parking spaces will be a
bollard containing electrical connections for charging the ambulance batteries.
This area, while containing islands, is best described as a vehicular service yard
similar to those utilized by local utility provides. On the south side of the
headquarters building is the service entry and delivery dock. The extensive
concrete paving in this location is to accommodate heavy, semi -truck turning in
order to access the dock. The portion of the site leased from AHTD, directly
south of 8th Street, will be utilized as parking for the 24-7 employees. The
existing main building will remain until the new headquarter building is built. At
some point in the future, the main building may be removed to provide more
K
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
secure parking. It should be noted that the 8th Street connection to the 1-630
West entrance ramp is currently being permanently closed based on approval
from AHTD and MEMS.
The vehicular use pattern will be as follows:
Ambulance traffic will turn off 7th Street, south onto Ringo Street and enter
MEMS campus thru an electronically controlled, swing gate. Ambulances
will traverse the driveway and stop to be cleaned and resupplied beneath
the covered drive-thru bays. Each ambulance will either then park to
charge or exit campus by going north on Ringo Street.
• Delivery truck traffic will turn off of 7th Street, south onto Cross Street and
stop to be allowed entry to the MEMS campus via another electronically
controlled, swing gate. Delivery traffic will then negotiate a turn -around
and back-up to the delivery dock, make their delivery and then circle back
around and out Cross Street north to 7th Street.
Employees parking for regular 8-5 employees will be within the parking lot
at the corner of 7th Street and Cross Street. The parking area is
controlled, after business hours by an electronically controlled arm gate.
Emergency medical and dispatch employees will enter campus via Cross
Street and park within the area leased from AHTD, which is essentially
unchanged from its existing layout.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The MEMS site is located along 1-630 at the Chester Street entrance ramp.
There are a number of buildings located on the site related to the operation of
MEMS. West 8th Street through the site was recently closed. Portions of Ringo
and Cross Streets were also abandoned as public rights of way.
There are a number of uses in the area including State and Federal offices, a
City of Little Rock Fire Station, restaurants, retail uses and residential uses.
C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS:
As of this writing, staff has received several informational phone calls from area
residents. All owners of property located within 200-feet of the site along with the
Downtown Neighborhood Association were notified of the public hearing.
D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS:
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS:
1. Right-of-way dedications meet the Master Street Plan standards.
3
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
2. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the
public right-of-way prior to occupancy. South Cross Street should be overlaid
with asphalt to the centerline.
3. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES stormwater permit
from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of
construction.
4. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Public Works
must approve completed plans prior to construction.
5. Damage to public and private property due to hauling operations or operation
of construction related equipment from a nearby construction site shall be
repaired by the responsible party prior to issuance of a certificate of
occupancy.
6. A truck route should be established for delivery trucks to the site. Equipment
should be installed to enable the proposed gates to be opened for vehicles to
pass through the site on 8th Street and Ringo Street due to street turnarounds
are not provided.
E. UTILITIES AND FIRE DEPARTMENT/COUNTY PLANNING:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: See attached for Entergy's previous response to this proposal. An
Entergy designer is already working with the developer on options and cost to
rearrange the electrical facilities to enable the construction.
Centerpoint Energy: Be advised that Centerpoint Energy owns and operates
facilities in street right-of-way on 8th, Cross, and Ringo Streets in Little Rock, AR.
As mentioned in our ROW abandonment response letter on July 30th, 2014 CNP
requests that a twenty foot (20') utility easement be maintained within the
proposed ROW being abandoned. CNP also requests access to these facilities
be granted to CNP and contractors at our discretion.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water: No comment received.
Fire Department: Maintain access, fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little
Rock Fire Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA: The site is located on CATA Bus Route #15, the 65th Street Route.
1. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for
water service must be met.
CI
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
2. Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure
zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZA) is required on the domestic water
service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use.
Central Arkansas Water requires that upon installation of the RPZA,
successful tests of the assembly must be completed by a Certified Assembly
Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas and approved by Central Arkansas
Water. The test results must be sent to Central Arkansas Water's Cross
Connection Section within ten days of installation and annually thereafter.
Contact the Cross Connection Section at 501.377.1226 if you would like to
discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 the Little Rock Fire
Department is required.
6. A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will
apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all
connections including metered connections off the private fire system.
7. 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.
8. Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered water
service is required.
Parks and Recreation: No comment received-
F. 1 SSU ESITECH N 1 CAL/DES I GN :
Building Code: Project is subject to full commercial plan review approval prior to
issuance of a building permit. For information on submittal requirements and the
review process, contact a commercial plans examiner: Curtis Richey at
501.371.4724; cricheyQ_1ittlerock.org or Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875;
malderfer(cNittleroc_k.or .
5
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
Planning Division: This request is located in the Downtown Planning District.
The Land Use Plan shows Mixed Use -Urban (MX-U) for this property. The Mixed
Use -Urban category provides for a mix of residential, office and commercial uses
not only in the same block but also within the same structure. This category is
intended for older "urban" areas to allow dissimilar uses to exist, which support
each other to create a vital area. Development should reinforce the urban fabric
creating a 24-hour activity area. Using the Planned Zoning District or the Urban
Use District, high and moderate density developments that result in a vital
(dense) pedestrian oriented area are appropriate. The applicant has applied for
a rezoning from UU (Urban Use District) to PDO (Planned District Office) to allow
the additional development to support the MEMS service on this site.
Master Street Plan: 7th Street is a Collector and Cross and Ringo Streets are
Local Streets on the Master Street Plan. The primary function of a Collector
Street is to provide a connection from Local Streets to Arterials. The primary
function of a Local Street is to provide access to adjacent properties. Local
Streets that are abutted by non-residential zoning/use or more intensive zoning
than duplexes are considered as "Commercial Streets". A Collector design
standard is used for Commercial Streets. These streets may require dedication
of right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to
the site.
Bicycle Plan: There is a Class III Bike Route shown along 7th Street. Bike
Routes require no additional right-of-way or pavement markings, but only a sign
to identify and direct the route.
Landsqgpe:
1. Site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance
requirements.
2. The property is located in the UU, Urban Use district. Street trees a minimum
of three-inch caliper will be required. The trees shall be located a minimum of
two (2) feet off the back of a curb and shall be thirty (30) feet on center and
no closer than thirty (30) feet to a street intersection with a water source
provided. The tree canopy shall be maintained at least eight (8) feet above
the sidewalk.
• Street trees are to be provided on South Cross Street and West 7th Street.
3. Street buffers will be required at six (6) percent of the average depth of the
lot. The minimum dimension shall be one-half (Y2) the full width requirement
but in no case less than nine (9) feet. The property is located in the City's
Designated Mature Area. A twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer
requirements is acceptable. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this
requirement. The plantings, existing and purposed, shall be provided within
the City's landscape ordinance requirements.
0
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
• The depth of the lot is approximately three hundred and sixty (360) linear
feet. After the twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer
requirements a sixteen (16) foot street buffer will be required on West 7t"
Street.
4. Screening requirements will need to be met for the vehicular use areas
adjacent to street right-of-ways. Provide screening shrubs with an average
linear spacing of not less at three (3) feet within the required landscape area.
Provide trees with an average linear spacing of not less than thirty (30) feet.
5. A perimeter planting strip is required along any side of a vehicular use area
that abuts adjoining property. This strip shall be at least nine (9) feet wide.
The property is located in the City's designated mature area. A 25% reduction
of the perimeter requirements is acceptable. One (1) tree and three (3) shrubs
or vines shall be planted for every thirty (30) linear feet of perimeter planting
strip.
■ A minimum 6.75-foot perimeter planting strip is required adjacent to the
vehicular use area at the west property line. Up to twenty-five (25)
percent of the perimeter planter area may be shifted from one area of
the site to another. In no instance shall the perimeter planting strip
width be less than five (5) feet.
6. Landscape areas shall be provided between the vehicular use area used for
public parking and the general vicinity of the building, excluding truck loading
or service areas not open to public parking. These areas shall be equal to an
equivalent planter strip three (3) feet wide along the vehicular use area.
7. Eight percent (8%) of the vehicular use area must be designated for green
space; this green space needs to be evenly distributed throughout the parking
area(s). The minimum size of an interior landscape area shall be one hundred
fifty (150) square feet for developments with one hundred fifty (150) or fewer
parking spaces. Interior islands must be a minimum of seven and one half (7
1/2) feet in width. Trees shall be included in the interior landscape areas at
the rate of one (1) tree for every twelve (12) parking spaces.
8. An irrigation system shall be required for developments of one (1) acre or
larger.
9. 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 preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or
larger.
G. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (November 19, 2014)
The applicant was present. Staff presented an overview of the item stating there
were additional items necessary to complete the review process. Staff requested
the applicant provide the maximum building height for the proposed structures.
Staff also requested additional information concerning the proposed uses of the
buildings and the future use of the existing buildings.
tl
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
Public Works comments were addressed. Staff stated right of way dedications
were required to meet the Master Street Plan standards. Staff stated if the
disturbed area was more than one (1) acre a NPDES stormwater permit from the
Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality would be required. Staff
requested the applicant provide the proposed truck route to the site.
Landscaping comments were addressed. Staff stated the site was located within
the Designated Mature Area which allowed the landscape strips to be reduced to
6-feet 9-inches. Staff also stated screening would be required adjacent to the
vehicular use area and the street right of way. Staff stated building landscaping
would be required and should be a minimum of three (3) feet in width. Staff
stated nonpublic parking areas were not required to be landscaped.
Staff noted the comments from the various other agencies. There were no more
issues for discussion. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full
Commission for final action.
R ANALYSIS:
The applicant submitted a revised cover letter and site plan to staff addressing a
number of the issues raised at the November 19, 2014, Subdivision Committee
meeting. The applicant has indicated the maximum building height for the
structures will be 35-feet above the finished floor elevation. The applicant has
indicated the headquarter building is primarily business occupancy, commercial
office use. The dispatch and operations portions of the headquarters building will
be 24-hours a day, seven (7) days per week, 365-days per year. The 2"d floor
will house the training area, finance, billing and accounts receivable departments
and executive offices and board room. The existing MEMS building will
eventually be demolished, as part of a separate construction contract, but until
that time MEMS will utilize the space as storage for materials currently stored at
an off -site, rented facility.
The applicant is seeking a rezoning from UU, Urban Use District to PD-O to allow
the approval of a site plan for the redevelopment of the future MEMS
headquarters. The applicant has previously presented to the City their Master
Plan for redevelopment of the site. The applicant is now requesting the rezoning
to establish the plan and future components.
The street buffer is required at six (6) percent of the average depth of the lot. The
minimum dimension must be one-half ('/2) the full width requirement but in no
case less than nine (9) feet. This property is located in the City's Designated
Mature Area which allows a twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer
requirement. Based on the depth of the lot, approximately 360 linear feet, a
21.6-foot street buffer would typically be required. There is a twenty-five (25%)
percent reduction of the buffer requirement allowed which reduces the required
street buffer along West 7th Street to sixteen (16) feet. The applicant is
requesting a reduction in the required buffer along West 7t" Street to be allowed
the placement of a 14-foot 6-inch buffer.
FILE NO.: Z-8998 (Cont.
Staff is supportive of the request. The applicant is seeking a rezoning of the site
from UU, Urban Use District to PD-O to allow the approval of the overall master
plan for the MEMS Headquarters site. To staff's knowledge there are no
remaining outstanding technical issues associated with the request. Staff feels
the development as proposed is appropriate.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends 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.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (DECEMBER 18, 2014)
The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff
presented the item with a recommendation 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.
There was no further discussion of the item. The Chair entertained a motion for
approval of the item as presented by staff. The motion carried by a vote of 10 ayes,
0 noes and 1 absent.
N
ITEM NO.: 1. S-1261-K
ITEM NO.: 13. Z-8998
NAME: Mems Headquarters Short -form PD-O
LOCATION: located at 1022 West 8th Street
Cromwell responses are in bold, italics, beneath each comment
Planning Staff Comments:
1. Provide notification of the property owners located within 200-feet including the
certified abstract list, notice form with affidavit executed and proof of mailing. The
notice must be mailed no later than December 3, 2014. The Office of Planning and
Development must receive the proof of notice no later than December 12, 2014.
Concur. Cromwell will provide requested items no later than December 3, 2014.
2. What are the proposed use(s) of the buildings? What will the existing building be
used for?
The Headquarter Building is primarily business occupancy, commercial office use.
The Dispatch and Operations portions of the Headquarters Building will be occupied
24 hours a day, 365 days a year, on the 1" Floor in order to complete MEMS mission.
The 2"d Floor will contain the Training, Finance, Billing & Accounts Receivable
departments, as well as the Executive Offices and LRAA Board Room.
The Main Building at 1101 West 8th will eventually be demolished, as part of a
separate construction contract, but until that time MEMS will utilize the space as
storage for materials currently stored at a off -site, rented facility.
3. Provide the maximum building height of the proposed buildings.
Finished Floor Elevation is to be 233'-6'; with the tallest parapet height to be no more
than 35'-0" Above Finished Floor.
Variance/Waivers: None requested.
Public Works Conditions:
1. Right-of-way dedications meet the Master Street Plan standards. Concur.
2. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public right-
of-way prior to occupancy. South Cross Street should be overlaid with asphalt to the
centerline. Concur, the Site Plan has been updated to show the asphalt overlay of
Cross Street.
Item # 1.
1
ITEM NO
S-1261-K
3. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES stormwater permit from
the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of construction.
Concur.
4 Street Imprnvement plans shall inr:li irte signage and striping Pi ihlir: Wnrks mi ist
approve completed plans prior to construction. Concur.
5. Damage to public and private property due to hauling operations or operation of
construction related equipment from a nearby construction site shall be repaired by
the responsible party prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy. Concur.
6. A truck route should be established for delivery trucks to the site. Equipment should
be installed to enable the proposed gates to be opened for vehicles to pass through
the site on 8th Street and Ringo Street due to street turnarounds not being provided.
Concur. The Delivery Entrance to the MEMS Campus will be via S. Cross Street
through the remote -operated, swing gate monitored by closed circuit cameras 24 / 7 /
365. The remote -operated, swing gate on S. Ringo will likewise be monitored and
opened in the event that vehicular traffic is unable to turn around. This was the
agreement in place with Little Rock Public Work Department
Utilities and Fire Department/County Planning:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project. Concur.
Entergy: See attached for Entergy's previous response to this proposal. An Entergy
designer is already working with the developer on options and cost to rearrange the
electrical facilities to enable the construction. Concur. Cromwell has been in
discussions with Entergy directly. Easements shall remain for each utility within the
abandoned ROW on 8tt', Cross, and Ringo Streets. Access to the site will be granted via
the remote -operated, swing gate monitored by closed circuit cameras 24 / 7 / 365 on
either S. Cross or S. Ringo Streets.
Centerooint Energy: Be advised that Centerpoint Energy owns and operates facilities
in street right-of-way on 8th, Cross, and Ringo Streets in Little Rock, AR. As mentioned
in our ROW abandonment response letter on July 30th, 2014 CNP requests that a
twenty foot (20') utility easement be maintained within the proposed ROW being
abandoned. CNP also requests access to these facilities be granted to CNP and
contractors at our discretion. Concur. Easements shall remain for each utility within the
abandoned ROW on 8th, Cross, and Ringo Streets. Access to the site will be granted via
the remote -operated, swing gate monitored by closed circuit cameras 24 / 7 / 365 on
either S. Cross or S. Ringo Streets.
AT & T: No comment received. Concur.
Item # 1.
2
ITEM NO.: 1.
Central Arkansas Water:
1261-K
Fire Department: Maintain access, fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock
Fire Department for additional information. Concur.
County Planning: No comment. Concur.
CATA:
1. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water
service must be met. Concur.
2. Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure zone
backflow preventer assembly (RPZA) is required on the domestic water service.
This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas
Water requires that upon installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly
must be completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas
and approved by Central Arkansas Water. The test results must be sent to Central
Arkansas Water's Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and
annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 501.377.1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project. Concur.
3. 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. Concur.
4. 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. Cromwell
will review Fire Hydrant requirements with Little Rock Fire Department directly. Based
on Little Rock City Code, Article IX Utility Relocation, Sections 2-350 thru 2-357,
MEMS shall be treated as the "City of Little Rock" in issues of utility relocation and
improvement.
5. 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 the Little Rock Fire Department is required. Concur.
6. A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will apply to
this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all connections
including metered connections off the private fire system. Cromwell will review the
meter sizes directly with CAW. Based on Little Rock City Code, Article IX Utility
Relocation, Sections 2-350 thru 2-357, MEMS shall be treated as the "City of Little
Rock" in issues of utility relocation and improvement.
Item # I .
3
ITEM NO.: 1. S-1261-
7. 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.
Cromwell will review any water line installation/relocation directly with CAW.
Easements shall remain for each utility within the abandoned ROW on 81', Cross, and
Ringo Streets. Based on Little Rock City Code, Article IX Utility Relocation, Sections
2-350 thru 2-357, MEMS shall be treated as the "City of Little Rock" in issues of utility
relocation and improvement.
8. Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered water service
is required. Concur.
Parks and Recreation: No comment received. Concur.
Building Cade: Project is subject to full commercial plan review approval prior to
issuance of a building permit. For information on submittal requirements and the review
process, contact a commercial plans examiner: Curtis Richey at 501.371.4724;
cricheyp,littlerock.org or Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875; malderfer littierock.or .
Concur.
Planning Division: This request is located in the Downtown Planning District. The Land
Use Plan shows Mixed Use -Urban (MX-U) for this property. The Mixed Use -Urban
category provides for a mix of residential, office and commercial uses not only in the
same block but also within the same structure. This category is intended for older
"urban" areas to allow dissimilar uses to exist, which support each other to create a vital
area. Development should reinforce the urban fabric creating a 24-hour activity area.
Using the Planned Zoning District or the Urban Use District, high and moderate density
developments that result in a vital (dense) pedestrian oriented area are appropriate.
The applicant has applied for a rezoning from UU (Urban Use District) to PDO (Planned
District Office) to allow the additional development to support the MEMS service on this
site. Concur.
Master Street Plan: 7th Street is a Collector and Cross and Ringo Streets are Local
Streets on the Master Street Plan. The primary function of a Collector Street is to
provide a connection from Local Streets to Arterials. The primary function of a Local
Street is to provide access to adjacent properties. Local Streets that are abutted by
non-residential zoning/use or more intensive zoning than duplexes are considered as
"Commercial Streets". A Collector design standard is used for Commercial Streets.
These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street
improvements for entrances and exits to the site. Concur.
Item # 1.
4
ITEM NO.: 1. S-1261-K
Bicycle Plan: There is a Class III Bike Route shown along 7th Street. Bike Routes
require no additional right-of-way or pavement markings, but only a sign to identify and
direct the route. Concur. Cromwell will identify signage requirement along 74h Street.
Landscape:
1. Site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance requirements.
Concur. Cromwell will provide Landscape Plans demonstrating the site design is in
compliance with the Landscape Ordinance.
2. The property is located in the UU, Urban Use district. Street trees a minimum of
three-inch caliper will be required. The trees shall be located a minimum of two (2)
feet off the back of a curb and shall be thirty (30) feet on center and no closer than
thirty (30) feet to a street intersection with a water source provided. The tree canopy
shall be maintained at least eight (8) feet above the sidewalk.
■ Street trees are to be provided on South Cross Street and West 7th Street.
Concur. Cromwell will provide Landscape Plans demonstrating the site design is in
compliance with the Landscape Ordinance.
3. Street buffers will be required at six (6) percent of the average depth of the lot. The
minimum dimension shall be one-half (%) the full width requirement but in no case
less than nine (9) feet. The property is located in the City's Designated Mature Area.
A twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer requirements is acceptable.
Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement. The plantings, existing
and purposed, shall be provided within the City's landscape ordinance requirements.
■ The depth of the lot is approximately three hundred and sixty (360) linear feet.
After the twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer requirements a sixteen
(16) foot street buffer will be required on West 7th Street.
Based on discussions during the Subdivision Committee Meeting, Cromwell will
apply for a variance to the Buffer Ordinance, as 14'-6" is the Buffer currently shown
along 7 h Street Cromwell will provide Landscape Plans demonstrating the site
design is in compliance with the Landscape Ordinance.
4. Screening requirements will need to be met for the vehicular use areas adjacent to
street right-of-ways. Provide screening shrubs with an average linear spacing of not
less at three (3) feet within the required landscape area. Provide trees with an
average linear spacing of not less than thirty (30) feet. Concur. Cromwell will provide
Landscape Plans demonstrating the site design is in compliance with the Screening
Requirements.
5. A perimeter planting strip is required along any side of a vehicular use area that
abuts adjoining property. This strip shall be at least nine (9) feet wide. The property
is located in the City's designated mature area. A 25% reduction of the perimeter
requirements is acceptable. One (1) tree and three (3) shrubs or vines shall be
planted for every thirty (30) linear feet of perimeter planting strip.
Item # I .
5
ITEM NO.: 1.
1261-K
■ A minimum 6.75-foot perimeter planting strip is required adjacent to the
vehicular use area at the west property line. Up to twenty-five (25) percent of
the perimeter planter area may be shifted from one area of the site to another.
In no instance shall the perimeter planting strip width be less than five (5)
feet.
Concur. Cromwell has provided a Civil Site Plans that demonstrates the site
design is in compliance with the perimeter planting strip along each vehicular use
area that abuts adjoining property.
6. Landscape areas shall be provided between the vehicular use area used for public
parking and the general vicinity of the building, excluding truck loading or service
areas not open to public parking. These areas shall be equal to an equivalent planter
strip three (3) feet wide along the vehicular use area.
Concur. Cromwell has provided a Civil Site Plans that demonstrates the site design is
in compliance with the planter strip along each vehicular use area that abuts the
Headquarters Building. Cromwell will provide Landscape Plans demonstrating the
site design is in compliance with the Landscape Ordinance.
7. Eight percent (8%) of the vehicular use area must be designated for green space;
this green space needs to be evenly distributed throughout the parking area(s). The
minimum size of an interior landscape area shall be one hundred fifty (150) square
feet for developments with one hundred fifty (150) or fewer parking spaces. Interior
islands must be a minimum of seven and one half (7 1/2) feet in width. Trees shall
be included in the interior landscape areas at the rate of one (1) tree for every twelve
(12) parking spaces. Concur. The Public Parking Area along 7`h Street and the
Ambulance Maneuvering Area along the west side of Ringo both have the required
amount of green space, as shown on the Civil Site Plan. It was agreed during the
Subdivision Committee Meeting that the non-public parking and delivery truck
maneuvering area, located behind the security fence to the south of the proposed
Headquarters Building, would not comply with the green space requirements.
8. An irrigation system shall be required for developments of one (1) acre or larger.
Concur. Irrigation systems will be provided around the Headquarters Building and the
parking lots along rh Street, including the required street trees.
9. 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 preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger. Concur. Several
mature trees will be preserved along the east side of the proposed Headquarters
Building. Cromwell will provide Landscape Plans demonstrating the site design is in
compliance with the Landscape Ordinance, so no existing tree credit will be required.
Revised plat/plan: Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plat/plan (to include
the additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, November 26, 2014.
Concur. Cromwell has provided 4 copies of the revised Civil Site Plan, Civil Grading Plan,
and Civil Utility Plans to the Zoning and Subdivision Staff.
Item # 1.
9
ITEM NO.: 13. Z-8998
NAME: Mems Headquarters Short -form PD-O
LOCATION: located at 1022 West 8th Street
Planning Staff Comments:
1. Provide notification of the property owners located within 200-feet including the
certified abstract list, notice form with affidavit executed and proof of mailing. The
notice must be mailed no later than December 3, 2014. The Office of Planning and
Development must receive the proof of notice no later than December 12, 2014.
2. What are the proposed use(s) of the buildings? What will the existing building be
used for?
3. Provide the maximum building height of the proposed buildings.
Variance/Waivers: None requested.
Public Works Conditions:
1. Right-of-way dedications meet the Master Street Plan standards.
2. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public right-
of-way prior to occupancy. South Cross Street should be overlaid with asphalt to the
centerline.
3. If disturbed area is one (1) or more acres, obtain a NPDES stormwater permit from
the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of construction.
4. Street Improvement plans shall include signage and striping. Public Works must
approve completed plans prior to construction.
5. Damage to public and private property due to hauling operations or operation of
construction related equipment from a nearby construction site shall be repaired by
the responsible party prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
6. A truck route should be established for delivery trucks to the site. Equipment should
be installed to enable the proposed gates to be opened for vehicles to pass through
the site on 8th Street and Ringo Street due to street turnarounds are not provided.
Utilities and Fire Department/County Planning:
Wastewater: Sewer available to this project.
Entergy: See attached for Entergy's previous response to this proposal. An Entergy
designer is already working with the developer on options and cost to rearrange the
electrical facilities to enable the construction.
ITEM NO.: 1
Centerpoint Energy: Be advised that Centerpoint Energy owns and operates facilities
in street right-of-way on 8t", Cross, and Ringo Streets in Little Rock, AR. As mentioned
in our ROW abandonment response letter on July 30t", 2014 CNP requests that a
twenty foot (20') utility easement be maintained within the proposed ROW being
abandoned. CNP also requests access to these facilities be granted to CNP and
contractors at our discretion.
AT & T: No comment received.
Central Arkansas Water:
Fire Department: Maintain access, fire hydrants per code. Contact the Little Rock
Fire Department for additional information.
County Planning: No comment.
CATA:
1. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water
service must be met.
2. Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure zone
backflow preventer assembly (RPZA) is required on the domestic water service.
This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas
Water requires that upon installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly
must be completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas
and approved by Central Arkansas Water. The test results must be sent to Central
Arkansas Water's Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and
annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 501.377.1226 if you
would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 the Little Rock Fire Department is required.
Item # 13.
ITEM NO.: 13.
Z
6. A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will apply to
this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all connections
including metered connections off the private fire system.
7. 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.
8. Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered water service
is required.
Parks and Recreation: No comment received.
Buildirq Code: Project is subject to full commercial plan review approval prior to
issuance of a building permit. For information on submittal requirements and the review
process, contact a commercial plans examiner: Curtis Richey at 501.371.4724;
cricheyCED-littlerock.org or Mark Alderfer at 501.371.4875; malderfer@littlerock.org.
Planning Division: This request is located in the Downtown Planning District. The Land
Use Plan shows Mixed Use -Urban (MX-U) for this property. The Mixed Use -Urban
category provides for a mix of residential, office and commercial uses not only in the
same block but also within the same structure. This category is intended for older
"urban" areas to allow dissimilar uses to exist, which support each other to create a vital
area. Development should reinforce the urban fabric creating a 24-hour activity area.
Using the Planned Zoning District or the Urban Use District, high and moderate density
developments that result in a vital (dense) pedestrian oriented area are appropriate.
The applicant has applied for a rezoning from UU (Urban Use District) to PDO (Planned
District Office) to allow the additional development to support the MEMS service on this
site.
Master Street Plan: 7t" Street is a Collector and Cross and Ringo Streets are Local
Streets on the Master Street Plan. The primary function of a Collector Street is to
provide a connection from Local Streets to Arterials. The primary function of a Local
Street is to provide access to adjacent properties. Local Streets that are abutted by
non-residential zoning/use or more intensive zoning than duplexes are considered as
"Commercial Streets". A Collector design standard is used for Commercial Streets.
These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street
improvements for entrances and exits to the site.
Bicycle Plan: There is a Class III Bike Route shown along 7th Street. Bike Routes
require no additional right-of-way or pavement markings, but only a sign to identify and
direct the route.
Landscape:
Item # 13.
ITEM NO.: 13. Z-8998
1. Site plan must comply with the City's landscape and buffer ordinance requirements.
2. The property is located in the UU, Urban Use district. Street trees a minimum of
three-inch caliper will be required. The trees shall be located a minimum of two (2)
feet off the back of a curb and shall be thirty (30) feet on center and no closer than
thirty (30) feet to a street intersection with a water source provided. The tree canopy
shall be maintained at least eight (8) feet above the sidewalk.
Street trees are to be provided on South Cross Street and West 7t" Street.
3. Street buffers will be required at six (6) percent of the average depth of the lot. The
minimum dimension shall be one-half ('/2) the full width requirement but in no case
less than nine (9) feet. The property is located in the City's Designated Mature Area.
A twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer requirements is acceptable.
Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement. The plantings, existing
and purposed, shall be provided within the City's landscape ordinance requirements.
• The depth of the lot is approximately three hundred and sixty (360) linear feet.
After the twenty-five (25%) percent reduction of the buffer requirements a sixteen
(16) foot street buffer will be required on West 7t" Street.
4. Screening requirements will need to be met for the vehicular use areas adjacent to
street right-of-ways. Provide screening shrubs with an average linear spacing of not
less at three (3) feet within the required landscape area. Provide trees with an
average linear spacing of not less than thirty (30) feet.
5. A perimeter planting strip is required along any side of a vehicular use area that
abuts adjoining property. This strip shall be at least nine (9) feet wide. The property
is located in the City's designated mature area. A 25% reduction of the perimeter
requirements is acceptable. One (1) tree and three (3) shrubs or vines shall be
planted for every thirty (30) linear feet of perimeter planting strip.
• A minimum 6.75-foot perimeter planting strip is required adjacent to the
vehicular use area at the west property line. Up to twenty-five (25) percent of
the perimeter planter area may be shifted from one area of the site to another.
In no instance shall the perimeter planting strip width be less than five (5)
feet.
6. Landscape areas shall be provided between the vehicular use area used for public
parking and the general vicinity of the building, excluding truck loading or service
areas not open to public parking. These areas shall be equal to an equivalent planter
strip three (3) feet wide along the vehicular use area.
7. Eight percent (8%) of the vehicular use area must be designated for green space;
this green space needs to be evenly distributed throughout the parking area(s). The
minimum size of an interior landscape area shall be one hundred fifty (150) square
feet for developments with one hundred fifty (150) or fewer parking spaces. Interior
islands must be a minimum of seven and one half (7 1/2) feet in width. Trees shall
be included in the interior landscape areas at the rate of one (1) tree for every twelve
(12) parking spaces.
8. An irrigation system shall be required for developments of one (1) acre or larger.
9. 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 preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger.
Item # 13.
ITEM NO.: 13. Z-8998
Revised Plat/Plan: Submit four (4) copies of a revised preliminary plat/plan (to include
the additional information as noted above) to staff on Wednesday, November 26, 2014.
Item # 13.