Title
Resolution to Approve a Contract with SmithGroup, Inc. to Conduct Public Engagement, Develop Potential Building Concepts and Evaluate Feasibility of the Property Located at 415 W. Washington (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
The property presents unique challenges that need to be addressed prior to being considered for development. As proposed, the City will partner with SmithGroup, Inc. and their team to conduct a short series of creative public engagement opportunities to seek community and stakeholder feedback on the design concepts of the site.
Public input opportunities will seek to reach a broad and equitable spectrum of the community. They should engage the public in a manner that allows them to understand the possible options and outcomes of each location.
City Council approved Resolution 19-138 directing staff to evaluate certain City-owned properties for their ability to support affordable housing, including the site at 415 West Washington. After review by staff, several additional factors impacting the potential development of the site were identified. The property is still under the purview of the City's Historic District Commission. The Commission issued a Notice to Proceed allowing the existing structure to be demolished however, any new construction will require the review and approval of the Commission. The site is identified as an important component for future construction of the Treeline Trail in the adopted Master Plan. A significant portion of the site is within the floodplain and special consideration will need to be given to any above ground construction that takes place. Also, there is a chimney on site that acts as a nesting location for migrating Chimney Swifts, a migrating bird with lessen habitat available to it.
Based on these factors it became apparent that more than a traditional zoning and affordability analysis was necessary. Similar to the recently discussed Y-Lot, there are many community benefits under considerat...
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