04-508� �r.z�{
- - - Council FiYe # �'�-��
Green Sheet # f � � 3 � �
RESOLUTION
Presented By
Referred To
CITY OF
PAUL, MINNE50TA
Committee: Date
2 WHEREAS, Velmeir Companies (hereinafter "Velmeir"), in Zoning File No. 03-383303, made
3 agplication to the City on October 27, 2003 pursuant to the provisions of Leg. Code § 62.108 for
4 a site plan review for the purpose of developing commercially zoned property located at the
5 address commonly known as 1581 University Avenue and legally described as set forth in the
6 said zoning application contained in the said zoning file;, and
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8 WHEREAS, In a memo dated December ll, 2003, City staff advised the City's Planing
9 Commission that a request had been received by persons interested in the proposed development
10 to conduct a public hearing by the City's Planning Commission regarding approvai of the said
ll site plan rather than having the site plan approved administratively as permitted under L.eg. Code
12 § 64.300(b) and staff recommended that the Planning Commission conduct such a public
13 hearing; and
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WFIEREA5, In a letter dated December 22, 2003, the City advised Velmeir that an additional
period of time was necessary to approve Velmeir's application; and
WHEREAS, Following site plan review meetings with Velmeir and City staff, review of the
proposed site plan was concluded and a written report, dated January 7, 2004, and slightly
revised on January 29, 2004, was prepared by City staff in which it was recommended that
Velmeir's proposed site plan be approved subject to certain conditions; and
WHEREAS, The Planning Commission's Zoning Committee, having provided written notice to
affected properties, duly conducted a public hearing concerning the Velmeir site plan on
February 5, 2004 where all interested parties were given an opportunity to be heard; and
WHEREAS, During the February 5, 2004 public hearing, the Zoning Committee elected to leave
the public hearing open and continue the matter to February 19, 2004 for the purpose of further
considerin� matters regarding entrances to the proposed building as well as other details to the
proposed building; and
WHEREAS, In a letter dated February 12, 2004, Velmeir submitted revised elevafions and site
plans following the February 5, 2004, public hearing; and
WHEREAS, On February 19, 2004, the public hearing was reconvened regarding matters noted
in the preceding paragraph where all persons interested in testifying as to those matters were
given an opportunity to be heard and, at the conclusion of the hearing, the Zoning Committee
moved to recommend apgroval of the said site pian, subject to certain conditions and as modified
based upon the information obtained during the public hearings; and
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2 WHEREAS, on Febmary 27, 2004, the Saint Paul Planing Commission, having received the
3 recoznmendation submitted by its Zoning Committee, made the following findings as set forth in
4 its resolution No. 04-14:
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6 1. The city's adopted comprehensive plan and development or project plans for sub-areas of
7 the city.
The Land Use Plan
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a.
A map on page 28 of the Land Use Section of the Comprehensive Plan identifies
the Snelling and University intersection as a"Pedestrian Neiu�borhood
Commercial Center." Section 5.23 (gage 27) says that "design guidelines [for
pedestrian neighborhood centers) should include the following:
- Buildings out to the sidewalk
- Parkdng lots to side and rear of buildings, not in front
- Parkzng lots screened from the street
- Human-scale lighting
- Windows to the sidewalk
- Architecture that respects neighborhood context"
The building is out to the sidewalk on University and Snelling.
The parking lot is to the side the building so that the building is up to the sidewalk
along University Avenue and Snelling Avenue.
The cunent site plan shows a hedge planted along Sneiling and Sherburne to act
as a screen for the pazking lot. In recent years, the City has typically required that
screening for parking lots in busy, commercial areas like this include an
ornamental metal fence along the sidewalk and shade trees in the setback in
addition to a hedge. The current site plan is consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan if an ornamental metal fence and shade trees are added.
To be consistent with the requirement for "human-scale" lighting, the ma�cimum
height must be limited to 20' above grade.
There aze windows proposed on the north side of the building facing the parking
lot and on Snelling Avenue. These windows wiii use cleaz glass. The site pian
shows windows along University Avenue as well. However, these windows
would have opaque, spandrel glass for the lower portion of the window (below 7')
and would have clear glass only from a height of 7' to 14' above grade. In order to
be consistent with the intent of the Comprehensive Plan to use windows to
eniiven the streetscape, the lower windows along University Avenue must at least
be made of translucent glass rather than spandrei glass. The color of the
ttanslucent glass must be chosen to blend as ciosely as possible with the clear
glass upper portion of the window.
The scale of the building fits into the neighborhood context which is a mix of one-
story and multi-story buildings. A larger, multi-story buiiding would also fit the
neighborhood context but a larger building would need more off-street parking.
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This would mean either structured parking (under the building or in a ramp),
acquiring additional property for parking or obtaining a zoning variance for the
number of parking spaces.
Section 5.5.2 (page 32) says that "The City will encourage rrtore housing and
jobs to locate along high service bus routes."
The proposed CVS pharmacy would employ 20 to 30 people.
c. Section 5.6 (page 32) says that "in pedestrian-oriented neighborhood
commercial centers the City will support the provision of just enough commercial
parking in small parking lots fztted into available space. The City will Zimit the
number of curb cuts on commercial blocks. Parking should be Zocated at the side
or rear of buildings, and primary business entrances skould be osiented to the
sidewalk. "
The site plan shows just enough parking to meet the parking requirements under
the current zoning for the property.
There is one curb cut proposed on each of the three street frontages. Given that
there are medians in both Snelling and University, it is not feasible to reduce the
number of curb cuts. The details of the Snelling driveway is still being worked
out between Saint Paul Public Wozks and MnDOT. (See section 7 below.)
Parking is on the s3de of the building, fronting on Snelling and Sherbume (but not
on i3niversity.)
The primary entrance is located at the northeast corner facing the parking lot and
Snelling Avenue, approximately 95 feet from the University Avenue sidewalk.
Having the entrance on Snelling is acceptable since Snelling is a major street.
d. Section 6.3.2 (page 40) says that "development (on the University Avenue
Corridorj should contribute through derasity and site design to the ridership bttse
for public zransportation on University Avenue. "
The project is as dense as allowed under current zoning requirements unless
additional parking is provided (by constructing a parking ramp or underground
parking or by acquiring additional land far surface parking.)
The cuirent site plan can be made mare transit friendly by pzoviding a high quality
bus shelter on University Avenue that is visually integrated and compatible with
the azchitecture of the building and by moving the entrance to the building closer
to where people wait for the bus on University Avenue and making it more visible
from University Avenue.
The Transportation Plan
e. Policy 42 (page 24) says that "the City should use its Zand use and development
regulatory powers ta reinforce major transit destinations and signifzcant transfer
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— 2 points as central neighborhood places, where appropriate. Likewise, when
3 transitways - busways or LRT - are built, the City should wark with planning and
4 implementing agencies to ensure that they are designed to suppon human scale,
5 social fabric, and neighborhood identity. "
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7 A retail business such as a phannacy is an appropriate land use at a transfer point
8 such as this intersecuon. However, the City's land use and development
9 regulatory powers do not requite a larger, mulri-story building at this location.
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2.
3.
4. Protection of adjacerzt and neighboring properties through reasonable provision for such
matters as surface water drainage, sound and sight buffers, preservation of views, Zight
and air, and those aspects of design which may have substantial effects on neighboring
land uses.
The site plan is consistent with the finding if the following conditions are met:
- The parking lot must be well screened and ]andscaped. This is important because
the site is at a visible location along Snelling Avenue and there is a large existing
pazking lot immediately to the west. Landscapang is needed to visually break up
the lazge expanse of pazking. In addition to the landscaping shown on the current
site plan, trees must be planted around the edge of the parking lot and an
ornamental metal fence added along the Snelling and Sherburne edges of the
parking lot.
- Outside lighfing must be designed to minimize the impact on nearby property.
Applicable ordinances of the City of Saint Paut.
T'he site plan is consistent with applicabie ordinances of the City of Saint Paul:
- The proposed use is pernutted in the B-2 zoning district.
- It provides enough pazking to meet zoning requirements.
- The building and parking lot meet zoning requirements for setbacks, height and
floor area ratio.
- A public alley that runs through the property must be vacated as a condition of site
plan approval. CVS has already submitted the application to vacate the alley.
Preservation of unique geologic, geographic or his[orically signifccant characteristics of
the city arid environmetatadly sensi2ive areas.
The site plan is consistent with this finding.
The arrangement of builclings, uses and facilities of the proposed development in order to
assure abutting property and/or its occupants will not be unreasonably affected.
The site plan is consistent with the finding. The building is located along the sidewalk on
both Snelling and University with the parking behind. There is an alley that cunently
runs through the site where the parking lot is proposed: an easement to University
Avenue wil] be provided so that traffic in the alley can drive through the parking lot.
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Creation of energy-conserving design through Zandscaping and location, orientation and
elevation of structures.
'I'he site plan is consistent with the current design pracrices for energy conservation.
Safety and convenience of both vehicular and pedestrian traffzc both within the site and
in relation to access streets, including traffic circulation features, the locations and
design of entrances and exits and parking areas within the site.
Public Works Tr�c Engineering staff has reviewed the site plan and deterznined that it
is consistent with this finding if a diverter is constructed in the new Snelling driveway to
discourage left tums in and out of the parking lot. MnDOT must also review and approve
the driveway on Snelling since it is a state highway. They have indicated that they may
want to restrict turns to right-in only. The flnai design for this driveway wili need
approval from both Public Works and MnDOT.
The satisfactory availability and capacity of storm and sanitary sewers, including ,
solutions to any drainage problems in the area of the development.
The site plan is consistent with the finding. Public Works has reviewed the site plan and
deternuned that it meets City standards for sewers and storm water drainage, subject to
minor revisions.
Suff`icient landscaping, fences, walls and parking necessary to meet the above objectives.
The site plan is consistent with the finding if shade trees and an ornamental fence are
added azound the edge of the parking lot on the Snelling and Sherburne sides.
Site accessibility in accordance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA), including parking spaces, passenger loading zones and accessible routes.
The site plan is consistent with the finding.
Provision for erosion and sediment controd as specified in the "Ramsey Erosion
Sediment and Control Handbook. "
The sate plan is consistent with the finding.
WFIEREAS, based upon the findings noted above, the Commission approved the said site plan
subject to the following conditions as set forth in its Resolution No. 04-14 adopted as noted
above:
Windows must be included in the building facade facing University Avenue as
shown on the revised elevations dated 2/10/04. Ciear glass must be used on the
upper portion of these windows (above 7') and translucent glass must be used on the
lower portion. The color of the translucent glass must be reviewed and approved by
LIEP staff to ensure that it blends as closely as possible with the clear glass used for
the upper portion of the window. The emergency door shown on the University
Avenue facade must be moved to a less prominent location so that it is not within the
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window area.
2. The development must provide a high quality bus shelter on University Avenue that
is visually integral and compatible with the azchitecture of the building.
3. The new driveway on Sneiling must be constructed according to plans approved by
Saint Paul Public Works and MnDOT.
4. Additional landscaping and screening must be provided for the pazking lot. In
addition to the hedge shown along Sherburne and Snelling on the current plan, an
omamental metal fence along the sidewalk and shade trees in the setback must be
provided.
5. The height for exterior ]ighting fixtures in the parking lot shall not exceed 20' above
grade and they must use "cut-off' type fixtures to reduce spili-over light and glare.
6. The public alley through the site must be vacated and an access easement dedicated.
The building must be held back from the University Avenue property line to allow
room for a 14' wide sidewalk that will accommodate pedestrians and the new bus
shelter.
WHEREAS, Pursuant to the provisions of Leg. Code § 64.206, University United (hereinafter
"United") filed an appea] of the site plan approval on March 16, 2004 and requested a hearing
before the City Council for the purpose of considering the actions taken by the said comnnission;
and
WHEREAS, Acting pursuant to I.eg. Code §§ 64.206 - 64.208, and upon notice to affected
parties, the City Council, on Apri17, 2004, conducted a public hearing where all interested
parties were given an opportunity to be heard on the matter of United's appeal and, at the
conciusion of the hearing, the matter was duly laid over for the intended purpose of affording
Veimeir and United an opportunity to discuss the site plan and consider or recommend new
conditions or modifications to the site plan approved in Planning Commission Resolution No.
04-14; and
WHEREAS, On April 14, 21 and 28, 2004, additional discussions by the City Council
regarding Velmeir's site plan were laid over while Velmeir and United continued to discuss the
said site plan; and
WHEREAS, On May 5, 2004, the City Council, having received for discussion purposes from
Ve]meir, revised elevations acceptable to United containing modifications to the site plan design
approved in Planning Commission Resolurion No. 04-14, the City Council, acting pursuant to its
auihority granted under I.eg. Code § 64.207; DOES
HERESY RESOLVE, to deny in all things the appeal by United there being no showing that the
Planning Commission committed any error in fact, finding, or procedure and to affirm in all
things Veimeir's site plan approved in Planning Commission Resolution No. 04-14 and to adopt
herein by reference the Pianning Commission's said resolution, as the CounciPs own, to the
extent necessary to implement those modifications to the said site plan, as depicted in the said
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2 revised elevations provided by Velmeir;
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4 AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Planning Commission Resoiution No. 04-14 shall
5 have the condirions of approval set forth therein modified to read as follows:
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7 The approved site plan and any of its conditions, and any other approvals necessary to
8 implement the development depicted therein, shall be modified as necessary in order to
9 undertake the said development, in compliance with the said revised elevations provided
10 by Velmeir which are attached hereto and shall be incorporated into the said site pian by
11 reference and identified herein as Attachment No. 1- East (Front) Elevation (Faces
12 Snelling) and Attachment No. 2- South Elevation (�aces University).
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14 The approved site plan shall be further modified to require and provide for additional
15 improvements to the site in the futwe, concurrent with the construction of Light Rai] Transit
16 on University Avenue, in the form of a public entry door on University Avenue (South
17 Elevation) appropriate in scale and design for a significant commerclal building in a transit
18 oriented commercial center.
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20 AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all the other findings and conclusions as set forth
21 in Planning Commission Resolution No. 04-14 shall remain in effect as necessary to implement
22 and enforce the said modifications;
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24 AND, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the city clerk shal] mail a copy of this resolution to
25 Velmeir, United, the Planning Commission and the Zoning Administratar.
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Adopted by Council:
Adoption Certifi�c$
by Council Secretary
Requested by Department of=
by City Attorney
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CO23TRACTS (assumes authorized budget etcisls) COUNCIL RESOLUTION (amend budgets/aaxpt gcants}
l. Oirtside Ageucy , 1. DepsifinenYDirector ,
2. DepactmentD'uector- 2': , OffceofEinaaciat 5eevicesD'uector ,.
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5. O�ce'ofFinancia[ Serrnices - Accountin�g �' � �
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ACTION REQUESTID ,
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OFFICE OF LiCENSE,�SPECTIONS AND �� ���
ENVIILONMEN"I'AL PROTEC710N
Janeen E. Rosas, Director
CITY OF SAINT PAUL
RandyC. Kelty, Mayor
March 18, 2004
Ms. Mary Erickson
City Council Research Office
Room 310 City hall
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Dear Ms. Erickson:
LOWRYPROFESSIONAL BUILDING Te(ephone: 65I-166-9090
350 St. Peter Street, Suite 300 Facsimile: 631-266-91?4
SainiPau[,MinnesotaSil02-I510 Web: }vYw�.cisipauLmn.us/[iep
I would like to confirm that a public hearing before the City Council is scheduled for Wednesday, April
7, 2004, for the following appeal of a Planning Commission decision approving the site plan for a new
CVS Pharmacy.
Appellant:
F'ile Number:
Purpose:
Address:
Legal Description
of Property:
Previous Action:
University United
#04-056350
Appeal of a Planning Commission decision to approve the site plan for a
new CVS Pharmacy store.
1581 Universiry Avenue
BRIGHTWOOD PARK, BLOCK 4, LOTS 1-5 AND 25-28
Planning Commission approval; 12-3 February 27, 2004
Zoning Committee approval; 3-2 February 19, 2004
I have confirmed this date with Councilmember Benanav . My understanding is that you will publish
notice of the hearing in the Saint Paul I,egal Ledger. Please call me at 266-9086 if you have any
questions.
Sincerely,
/ Y
Tom Beach
Zoning Specialist
cc: FIle #04-056350
Wendy Lane
Allen Torstenson
Peter Wamer
NOT[CE OF PUBLLC fiEARING
� The Saint Paul City Council will con-
duct a public hearing on Wednesday, Aprii
7, 2004, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council
Chamkiers, Tlaird Floor, City Hall, to con-
sider the appeal of University United to a
decision of the Planning Commission air
proving the site plan for a new CVS Phar-
macy store at 1581 University Avenue.
Dated: March 18, 2004 -
MARY ERICKSON, -
Assistant Ciry Counci( Secretary
. (March 22)
2 _'__'_= 31: PAUL LEGAL LEDGER =___'___
zQ7999s
AA-ADA-EEO Employer
OFFiCE OF LICctiSE. LNSPECTIONS AND ��—��" �
ENVIRONMt:�TAL PROTECITON
Janeen E. Rosas, Director
czrV oF sa.�T pai�z
Randy C. iiztly. .LSm�or
March 30, 2004
Ms. Mary Erickson
Seczetary to the Ciry Council
Room 310 City Hall
15 Kellogg Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102
LO;YP.YPROFESS.'O.V.9L BL'ILDZ�'G Telephone: 5�i-266-9090
350SLPzterStreet,Su:te300 Facsimile: 6�I-?66-972d
SaimPaul,_Ninnesota.i510?-Z�[0 Web: vnr,r'tisrycul.mn.�(izp
RE: Site plan review for a new CVS Pharmacy store at 1581 University Avenae
Zoning File 04-056350
Dear Ms. Erickson:
A public hearirtg has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 7, 2004, to consider an appeal by Uaiversity
United of the Planning Commission's decision to approve the site plan for a new CV S Pharmacy at the
• northwest comer of Universiry and Snelling.
THE SITE PLAN
The approved site pian shows: .
- A new one-story retail building with 13,000 square feet of floor area. The building would be buiit
out to the sidewalk on the University and Snelling sides.
- A parkin� lot with Si spaces would be located north of the building facing Snelling and Sherbume.
- The entrance to the building would be on the northeast comer of the building, facing Snelling and
the parking lot.
- There would be windows on three sides of the building. The lower portion of the windows facing
University Avenue would use translucent glass instead of transpazent.
- CV5 �vould construct a bus shelter along University Avenu�.
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T7�E PLF4NNING Ct2�v7I4IISSION APPRt)�,I2 �`�, SITE PLAN
On February 27, 20004, the Planning Commission approved the site plan on a vote oi 12-3 with a number
of conditions includin�:
- Windows must be included in the buildin� facade facing University Avenue. Clear �lass must be
us�d on tha upper portion of these windows and Yranslucent glass must be used on the lower portion.
- Tfie development must provide a high quality bus shelter on University Avenue.
- Additional landscapina and screenin� must be provided for the parkin� lot.
- The public alley ttuough the site must be vacated and a new altey easement must be dedicated.
On February 19, 2004, the Zonin� Committee held a public hearin�, and recommended approval on a
vote of 3-2. At the public hearing 3 people spoice ar wrote lefters in snpport and 18 people spoke or
wrote letters in opposition. ,
Staff recommended approval.
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UniversiYy tinited filed an appeai of the Pianning Cammission's decision. Tne apyeal staies that the site
pla.� shoutd be denied because the plan is not cansistent with�
- Design guidelines in the �,and iJse chapter of the Comprehensive P'an.
- The Transpoztation chapter of the Comarehensive Plan
- '�'za�c safety �
- The University .�venue Transit-�riented L'eveIapmenT Framework.
(See artached appeal from L�niversiTy United detailin� the �ounds for their zppead.)
Please notify me if any member of the City Cauncil wishes to hsve slides of the site presented aY the
public hearing.
SincereIy,
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Tom Beach
ATTACHYii E�TS
Appeal by University United
Pianning Commission resolution
Zoning Committee minutes
Staff report for Zoning Committee
Letters in support and opposition
Excerpts from Comprehensive Plan
Photos afthe site
Location map
Site plan
Building elevations
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H:\W MMOMSire Plan�By projccts\Lmvasity SvelLg^ CVS\cc heaz�ng co-i la wpd
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AA-ADA-EE'J Employer
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� A"Coaliticr. of Midway Citizens & �3usinesses
March 15, 2004
Tom Beach
Office of License, Inspections and Eavironmental Proteation
300 Lowery Professional Building
350 St. Peter Street Suite 300
Saint Paul, IvilV 55102
Re: Velmeir Campanies File # 03 353303
Dear Tom,
We are appealing the decision af the Plaavning Comnussion to approve the proposed gians
for tiie CVS I'harmacy at i581 University Avenue. Bnclosed aze Ehe reas�ns for aue
. appeal, and a check for $410.
Please advise us as to the next steps.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely, ,
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Brian McMahon
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1 �54 Universiiy Avenue, Swie 9• St. Paul, MN 557 04
Phone (651) 64�-6711 a Fax (651) 647-C293
www.ur,iversityunited.con ;
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C��v 0f S�uat �aa�� �'ian��aa� �a�a�u�saca�a Resol�i�an
F�3e ��a��er: �Q?�ae�r �aa��aasies, �ile � �� 383303
Sa�b�flt8ex� ��=°sh 15, Zilti4
� TrraiversiEy LTNIT�'�, an beha3f ai its mem�er argauizations and bi:ssinesspeop{e, is
appeaiin� t3e uecision af tha St. Paul Pla��ing �cmanissi�n to approve th� site plan of
the Velmeir �o�npanies for ttze establisl�nent of a drt3gstare on prgperty lacated at 1551
University Aver�u� R'. Univarsity IJ'�i IITE� believes the Car�nission er i;i its
int��prata�on af a n��rnber of re3evant portions of �e caty's adogte� camprzhensive plan.
The resa�onse, be;ow, iollows the forrnat af the orig:nat Pla�ning Commission
Resotution:
i. T�ae eaty's aado�te�l corrt�r�hen�zve pla�a asad �evedopmeret mr pra�ect pl8�as�ar
satb-ar�ass af #he catv.
r� �'he #�atersecPsoR ra, f' ZI;��v��i8y Aveaz�ae aaatd �nelP�nng �lvenue is id�ntr,$'ze� as ra
"�'edesta�iran Nea�&�imrhood Cos�rsmsrczraf �'enter': �e�tdon 5.2.3 (I'age 27) sa,ys tJ�sat
design ga�adeli�aes shouLd inc[r�de, aamong oths� 8�iieags:
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�'.'�ac���s #s� i�� s�a3e�alk. T�is ��:i13i�g, as propose3, daes nflt have traaaspa.*en?
sm�inndows at eye-lavet (wh'sch is t��e presamesi intenT of Yhis recpurement), to allow for •
safety a��?d visual interest. The absence of wuadaws is also clearl_y in contradic#ion io +.he
city policy of supporting Crime Preve�tio� Thraugh Ettvironmenial I3esign {CI'T�D)
� guidelines.
Arehite��a�re i�sa# � sseig�bor3sood cont�x4_ The proposed builc�'ing, is a suburban
style, single stoay building, urithout doors or transparent vaindcws on the eommer^ial
corridor, aad is clearly out of place and net in keeping with the neighborhaod cantext.
b. �'ert�on 5.5.2 (Page 32) saays thret "��Ze Cidy wadt en�o�ara�e rszore r�ousarzg a�sa<1
j�bs to locat� aalong high servicz bus roact�s." CVS siates ttl�t it wouid e�aloy 2fl tcs 30
people. T�ansit-Oriented Developmen2 Guidelanes, as promuigated by ihe IbleYrop�liran
Council and adopted by UniversiTy II�TITE➢, recor.amend a j�b density of 20(? per acre.
This site is a�pro�mately an acre. The 2�i #a 30 jobs created are appro� 7fl°lo to
8�% fewer than ihe nuznber th�t should be located on an acre at thas critical inie�sec�ion,
As a point of camparison, Spruce Tree Center, across the street, has appro�mate 35{3 tc
37� employees. In addition, because t31e building is only one story, with a minnnai FAR
of .29, �he project does not capiTalize on the opporh�nity for a mix of uses, includ�g
housiaag, as part of a mulii-story project.
c Sertivn S.S (praas 32) says t3aat ... "�rirnaay business entrunc�s slaould be o��e.nPed
to the sidew¢Ik".
The legal address for tl•,is projec*. is 1581 Uni�ersity Avesue_ �Io�ever,the entsance is �
2ocated off the rvar par?ei�ug 3ot - ctearly �at in cat�fflrnance to tl�is reGuire�ezt.
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d Section 5.3.2 (pnge 4!I) says fhat "rlevelopment [nn the L'nivers;fyAvenue
Co�ri�ToaJ sho�ald contsiJ��rte t�iraugn de.=asit�,� and site desigs: to t3�e rzdid�arship base far
public transportation on Z'niversityAvenue': (Answeredbelow)
The Transportatdon Pdan
� Polic+� 42 (page 24�' says t�tQt "tlae City should use ats land use �nd deveZopment
r2gulatory powers to rein,�'orc2 majoa transit destinations and signifzcant transfer
points as cenfrul neigh�iorhood pdaees, where ¢pprapriate. Likewise evhen
transitways — busway.s or L�?' are built, the City sdtould work svith plannin� aeaad
iaraplementing agencaes to ensure lhat P�iey are designed to sup,po�t Isuman scale,
soeaa[,�'¢bric, and aaeigkborhoad identaty. "
There is nothing in the proposed building that contributes to the aoal of reinforcing
University Avenue as a transii corridor, or this "siguficant transfer poinY' as "a place of
hwnan scale supporting sociai fabric and neighborhood". Rather than provid'uag an
attractive enttancewag �rad storefrant greeting riders a4 the busiest transit stap on the
busiest transit route ir. tiae enYire system, this buildang presents a blaas.k wall, making
pedestrians anci tr�ansix cusi�mers walk around €o the rear. Ii ?his project were to be built,
. it would significantiy set back the long-term develapment goals for th� corridor by
set±ing an inappropriate precedent. Beaause of its prominent location, it is critically
important to insure that it canforms to the spi?it and letter of the City's developinent
goals. , '
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It is dif�cult to imagine t��sat the Ciiy Council �vould approve the vacating of this alley ?o
fur�.her the development oi a project that is so clearly a? variance with the expressed goals
of the community as demanstrated 'an nwnerous planning studies, and adopted as polscy
by the City.
Sa,f�e�y and coravenaQnc� s�j r5oth vehi�ulaa� aaa�d�reclestrian trQf�e }�ot�a avathin t�Ze site
atad iet relat�mn to acre,�� sts�flsis, iaaclaedg�z� �o°a��'f�c circula�i4tn feaPures, Pdae Zocatians
¢a�d desagrz o�''entr�ssaees rand zzats s�nrZ,�a�kan� wit3aan thesife.
This comer, as previous note: , is a uaajor transfe_* point. CVS is propasing a�wo-=�ay
drive-through, immediately adjaceni to the bus stop, that will be used by automobiles and
deiivery trucks. This presants a safety pro�lem, as many bus riders often need to run to
� catch their bus.
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04-Sag
I� ?cdit?on �o it?ese concer,-�s, att«cned are excer�ats �om ot'aer Ci?y P�a� t�ai ara �
relevant Amoag tl�ese are t.�e recaznrnendat�ans aft�te recentiy a�apte� T�3L3 Plaa for the
Snelii�g aac's Lex�ngto� racies. T"uese call for a
"S�srstu�e b�raldang bu��t sst the co;raer jn��tlawesP enracer a��r�e�iing anrl �inia�ersft9'J
s�eaE ��appsmrfs 2he �tyle a,��he asa��a �2-3 stor�aes af the streef, �mssfbt� rsu��� �u���r lsvels
axs ste�rper� barJrJro�ra �r�rae�sar streeEs':
Finally, dLring the Planning Commission Public Hea.ring, represeniatives oi the Velmeir
Coanpanies stated that Cz7S was nnable to modafy their prc�ttsrype �tore su.�cient�y to
acl�ess aur cancems. T�iis is paiently false. "I'he �VS webpage, itseif, airecYly siates they
can madify ttteir prototyge to acco�nmoclate urban locations. In �di�an, we presented
pictures of recently btaiit CVS stares from araund the s,auntry that wc�uld meet our
concems.
qaVe are not asking aaything of CVS that ihey have not built ?n some other city.
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� �gc�: pts �f Varioas �i3-; 1'la�s I2e?evanY to C5T8 Proposal
SL Paai Citv Comarahensive Dixa. 1999. Excernfs from the Summarv
IIniversih� Avenue Comdor./'.vFidway. Continued invesGae� in the :�fidway Corridor vn1I support its strong potentiai
for bus:ness development as 2 readily a;.c�sible azea between xha do�vntm��ns of Minneapolis and Saim Paul.
Univeisity Avenue should continue to be developed as boti; a ttansit corridor and a mixed-use b�siness street serving
city aad neighborhood needs. The i.and I;'se and Trenspor'ation chapters support:
e Redeveiopmem az ke.� sites thac aze identifie3 ia 7.he Land L'se chapter,
. Hi�her density of households and employment along the corridor thaz require acd support better transit
. Redesi�n and redevelopsent to make the auto-oriented regionai shopping azea comf'or'able for pedestrians
and to enhance storefront, pdestrian-oriented comm�rcial ceatets along the avenue, and
• Estabiishment of the "cenmi corr.dor' (of which lniversiN Avenue is a spine) as the top prioriry for thz
developmenf of transitways, busways and/or LRT in the region. �
Development Princia9es £or liniversitv Ave�ue, fl999. �xcesoTs
(These aze an Advisory Supplemeat io ciry ordiaances and standards)
A. Principlesfor the Entire Lesa oj'She Avenue:
4. Buildings should be orien.ed to Universiry Avenue and ali�ed with the street where consistent with use, lot size
and con5g�ration to support the goal oi an urban and aestheficaily pleasing streetscape.
7. Buiidings on Universiry Avenue should have attracrive pedes�ian connections to ffie avenue.
17. To ensure',.hat Universiw Avenue ;s as pedestrian E'iendly as pessible, developments shoutd mininize ot *educe
• curb cuts where possible, and shaze ourb cuts for adjacent pazking azeas should be encouraged.
C. PrincipFes jor Nedghbordenord Shopping Nodes
3. Buildings should be built up close to the sidewa3k vnless there is a demonstraYed pedestpan design amenity, such as
abuadant g*eenery and trees. Canor�ies and� other far�ade artioulation can also address the goai of having an aestheticaily
pleasiag street scape.
5. Muiti-story and mixed use buildings are strongty encouraged, with bniiding height and mass compatibie with
adjacent commercial and residentizl azeas.
6. Buitdings need to have w;ndows oneo the street and towazd parking ]ou so that people can see in and out of retail
and service bnsinesses. As a gui@eline, at least 43 percent of the front facade of new or zeconstructed buildings should
be devoted to windows and doors.
Froaa Universitv Avenue TrasasiE-63rien4e�i IDeveHommefli Framevenrk: S�elli�e an8 Lexinatote Areas �2003):
"Tne noRhwest comer of SneIling anfl Universiry is aiso available for new development. Community goals for ffie new
developmentinclude:
� Si�:ature building built at �e comer of a scale that supports the style o£the azea (2-3 stories at the s[reet,
possibly more if upper leve3s a�e stepped. back fro�n adjacent sh�eeLS;"
Fram Citv ot St Paul Transoortatifl� Plan. a chaa�e> aCthe Citv Comarehensive PIa�. list oi' policies:
4. The City should guide land use and development of the city in ways that reduce hips and promote use of aiter,tat�ve
modes of iravei.
� 42. The CiN should use its land use aad deveiopment regulatory powers to reinforce major transit des[inations and
significan? �rensfer poiats as centrai �eiehberhead places, �,vhere appronriate. Likewise, when hansitways — busyways
o: LRT — aze buiiL the City shautd work �ti iti� *�lanr,iag 2r.d impiementing agencies to ensure ti:at they are desi�ed to
support human scale, social fabric, and neighbarfiood identiry."
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�i�y of �ai�t Pa�l
�'I���ni�g �or�m;is�i�n �esc�lu�i�n
Fil� Nurnb�r a4-i4
�ai�. Februarv 27, 20�4
WHcREAS, Veimeir Companies, File # 03-383-3Q3, have applied for a siie plan review
under the provisions o� 62.108 of fhe Sainf Paut Legisaative Code, for the esiablishment of a
drug stcre on prooerty locatad at 1589 Universify Ave W, zoned 8-3, legally dsscribed as
Brightwood Park Lots 1-5 and 25-28, Bik 4; and
�?/N�REnS, the Z�r.ing Gcmmiftee cf th€ Pia„rirg C���rissior�, on 2(51u� and 2/1�(u4, held a
public hearing at which all p2rsons present wera given an opportunity to be heard pursuant to
said application in accordance with the requiremenfs of §64.300 of fhe Saint Paul Legislative
Code: and
WHEREAS, the Saint Paui Pianning Cammission, based on the evidence p�esented to its
Zoning Committee at the public hearing as substanfialty reflectad in the minutes, made the
iofiowing findings of fact:
Section 62.108(c) of the Zonir,g Code sfafes thaf in "order to approve ihe site pian, the planning
commission shall consider and find that ihe site pian is consistent with° the fotiovving findings:
?. The city's adopted comprehensive plar, and devetopment or project plans for sub-areas
of the city.
The Land Use Pfan
a. A map on page 28 af the Land Use Section of fhe Comprehensive Pian identifies the
5nelling and University intersection as a"Pedesirian Nsighborhood Commerciaf
Certer'. Section 5.2.3 (page 27) says that "design guidelines [for pedestrian
neighborhood centersj shoufd ir.dude ff�e foilowing:
- Buildings oui to the sid2wafk
- Parking /ofs to side and rear af buildings, noi in fronf
- Parking lots screened from fhe strset
- 'riuman-scale Jighfing
- Windows fo the sidewalk
- Architecture that respecis neighborhood confe�"
(7}�Ve �y F_eid
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a�G���st 3 (Faricv, Field M_cCai1}
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• Zon_�::gFiler03-38� �03
r'ebruar;- %7, 2G04 Pla�-ins Com.-nissio: Resaluuon
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Tne buildirg is ou't ie the sidewalk or University and Sne!ling.
The parking loi is to ihe side the buildina so �ha� ihe building is up to ihe sidewalR
along Univers'sty Avenue ar•d Snelling Averue.
The cur;eni site plan shows a hedge pianied along Snelling and Sherburne to act as
a scr2en for ihe parking iot. In recent years, the Ci'ry has typically required that
screening for parking lois in busy, commerciai areas like this inciude an ornamental
metal fence alona the sidewa4k an�s shacle traes in fhe se±back in additicn tc a
hedae. The current site plan is consistent with ihe Comprehensive Plan ii an
ornamental metal fence and shade frees are added.
To be consistent with the requirement for "human-scale" lighting, the maximum
height must be limit2d ta 20' above grade.
There are windows p;oposed on the norih side of the building facing fhe parkinq lot
and on Snelling Avenue. These windows will use clear glass. The site p{an shows
• windows along University Avenue as well. However, these windows wouid have
opaque, spandrel glass for #he Iower portior of the window (below 7') and wouid
have c(ear giass only from a height of 7' to 14' above grade. In order to be
consistent with the intent of the Comprehensive Plan #o use windows to enliven the
streetscape, the lower windows along University Avenue must at least be made of
transiucent glass rather than spandrel glass. The color of the transluceni giass must
be chosen to blend as close!y as oossible with the clear glass u�per pertien ef the
window.
The scale of the building fits into the neighborhood context which is a mix of one-
story and multi-story buildings. A larger, multi-story buiiding would aiso fit the
neighborhood context but a larger bui4ding would need more of�-street parking. This
wouid mean either structured parking (under tF�e buiiding or in a ramp), acquiring
additiona{-preperty for parking or obtaining a zoning variance for the number of
parking spaces.
Section 5.5.2 (page 32) says thai "The Crfy wrl( encourage ,more housing and jobs
to locate a/ong high service bus routes."
The proposed CVS pnarmacy wouid employ 20 to 30 people.
c. Sec"tion 5.6 (page 32) says ihat "in pedestrian-oriented neighborhood commercia�
centars the City witl supperf the provision of just enough commercial parking in small
parking tots fiffad rnfo avai{abie space. 7he City w1Ji limii fhe number of curb cuis on
� commercial btocks. P2rkirrg should ba (ocated at the side er rear oi buildings, and
primary busine'ss 2ntrances snould be orienteo'ro tha srder✓alk."
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04- 5D�
Zorins File r03-383-303 �
Fzbruary 2; 2004 Planning Commission Resolution
Page 3
The sife plar, shcws just enough parking to meet the parkinc reauiremenis urder ihe
current zoning for the nroperty.
There is ore curb cuf proposed on each of the three street frontages. Given chat
there a; e mediar,s in bcfh Sne!lina and Universiy, it (s not feasible to reduce the
number of curb cuts. The de2ails of the Snelling driv2way is sfill being worked out
6etween Saint Faul Pu61ic Works and MnDOT. {See section 7 below.)
Parking is on the side cf ine buiiding, fron#ing on Snelling and Sherburne (but not on
University.}
The orimary entrance is lecated at the northeast corner facing 4he parking lot and
Sne!ling Avenue, approximately 95 feet from ihe University Avenue sldewaik.
Having the entrance on Snelling is acceptable since Sne(ting is a major street.
d. Section 6.3.2 {page 40) says that "development (on the Universify Avenue CorridorJ
should contribute through density and srte design to the ridership base ior pu6/ic
iransporfafion on UniversiiyAvenue."
The project is as dense as allowed under current zoning r.equirement; uniess
additional parking is provided (by consfruciing a�arking ramp or underground
parking or by acquiring additiona� fand for surface parking.)
The currert site plan can be made more transit frfendly by p; oviding a high quali'ry
bus shelier on University Avenue that is visually integraie� and compatibie with the
8f'��i1tBCtGfB nf t�g h�il�t(?�r ?n�i hy� �C��i^ .;;a ert;a;,ce to it�e buiiding cioser to
where people wait for the bus on University Avsnue ard making it more visi�le from
University Avenue.
T�e Transporfatron Plan
e. Policy 42 (page 24) says thaf `Yhe City shou(d use ifs Iand use and deve(opmenr
regulatory powers to reinrorce m�jor transit desPinatiens and signiiicanf transfer
points as centrai neighborhood p(aces, where appropnate. Likev�ise. when
transifways - busways or LRT - are buili, the City should work wrih planning and
rmplementing agencies to ensure fhat ti�ey are designed to supporf human scale,
socral fabric, and nerghbornood identity."
A retail business such as a pharmacy is an appropriafe land use at a transfer point
such as tF�is irters2cf;on. However, the City's land use ar;d development regulatory
pcwers do noi require a 1a;ger, multi-siory building at this ;ocation.
2. A,qplicable ordrnances of ihe Ciiy of Saint Paul.
The site p�an is consisfenf �,vith applicabie ordinances ca�?he Ci±�,� oi Sain? Paul:
- Tne proposed use ;s permiiied ;n the S-2 zorina dis±ric:.
- It provides encuch pa; king to meLt zoring -eGuirements.
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• Zo_ning �ile =03-383-303
Feon�ar} 27, 2004 Planning Co�m.issor Resoi�iion
PaQe 4
Tn� buiid;ng ard parkir,g !et me�+zoning requiremenis �crse�backs, heighi and fioar
are� ratic.
A pubiic ailey fhat runs inrough ihe properry musi be vacaied as a co�ditio.r, oT site
pla;: aoproval. CVS nas already subm;?ied the applicatlon to vacaie the a+,iey.
3. Pres2rvation of unique geologic geographfc or historically signifrcant characterisiics of
:'he city and envrronmer,tall,v sensitrve areas.
The site plan is cor�sistent with this iinding.
a. pY�t°�t%�n 6f�i'�C°%%t 8%%C`,^,8%y^,5,�ivPiiy .J'ir"Gj�2 iit1UClLJf 1"B8SOY72(JlB JJl"pV1S/017 r01"SUCY!
matters as surface wa#er drainage, sound and sight buffers, preservation of views, light
and air, and those aspects of design which may have substantial effects on neighboring
land uses_
The site plan is consistent wifh the finding if the following conditions are met:
- The parking lot must be weli screened and landscaped. This is important because
ihe siie is af a visi6fe (ocation along Sneliing Avenue and there is a large exis#ing
parking lot immediaiely ±o the west. Landscaping is needed to visually break up the
• large expanse of parking. In addition to fhe landscaping shown on the current sife
plan, #rees must be planted around the edge ofi the parking lo# and an ornamentaf
meta� fence added along the Sne(ling and Sherbume sdges of the parking lot.
- Oufside lighting must be designed to minimize the impact on nearby properfy.
5. The arrangemer,# of bui�dings, uses and dcil,'ti2s cf the proposed deveiopmenf rn order
t� �csirrg alitrfitin� fn,rprn,grty 2,^,Q�. �,";�S OCCU�af7iS 'vVli� �Gt u`@ ur'if'cd�Of78.biy 8TT"BCT8C7.
The site plan is consistent wi'th the finding. The buiiding is located along the sidewalk
on both Snelling and University with the parking behind. "ihere is an afiey that currently
runs through the site where the parking lot is proposed: an easement to University
Avenue wili be provided so that traffic in the alley can drive fhrough the parking Iot.
6. Creation of energy-conserving desrgn through landscaping and /ocation, orientation and
elevation of siructures.
The site glan Is consisfent with the current u+esign practices for energy conservation.
7. Safety and convenience of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic both within the srte and
ir, relation fo access'sfreefs including traffic circulatior, features, the locatrnns and
design of entrances and exrts and parking areas wifhrn ihe sife.
Public V�lerks 7raffic Engineerina staff has reviewed ihe site alar and de#ermined that ii
is ccnsssteni with ;h;s f:nding it a diverier is corstruc'ted in the new Snelling driveway te
� disccurage le{± turns in ar.d out of the parking !of_ MnDOT must also review and
approve ihe driv�way on Sneliing s�nce if is a siate highway. They have indicated that
they may v�iant to rEStrici tums to right-in only. The finai design r`or ±his ariveway wiil
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�D�{- 508
Zonina r=iie � C3 383303
Flanning Commission Rasoiuiion
Page 5
need appreval from bcth Public Works and YnDOT.
8. The satrsfactory avar(abrliiy and capacity ofstorm and sanitary sewars including
solut,'ons 'tc any drainage proDlems in the area of the development.
Tne siie plar� is consisteni with the findirg. Public 1Norks nas reviewed the site pian ar,d
determined thaf if ineets City standards for sewers and storm water drainage, subject to
minor revisions.
9. Suf;icienf iandscaprng, fences, walls and parkina necessary to mee "c 'rhe above
objectiv2s.
The sit2 plan is consisier.t with the iinding if shade iress and an ornamentai rence are
added around the edge oi the parking lat o� the Sr,eiling and Sherburne sides.
10. Site accessibifiiy in accordance with fhe provisions cf ihe Americans with Disabilities
Act {ADA), including parking spaces, passenger loading zones and accessible routes.
The site plan is cor,sisient �vith the iinding.
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11. Provision ror erosron and sedimeni control as specrfi�d in the ��Ramsey Erosion •
Sedimenf and Confro! Handbcok."
The site plan is consistent with ihe finding.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE iT RESOLVEQ, by tne Sai�t Paul Planning Commission, under the
authority of the City's Legislatve Code, that the site pian submitted by V2lmeir Companies to
establi�h drug store at 9589 Universiiy Ave W is hereby apprcved, subject fo t(�e fioilowing
conditions:
Windows must be inc(uded in the building facade faang Universdy Avenue as sho�Nn on
fhe revised elevations dated 2/iQ/04. Ciear g(ass must 6e used on the upper portion of
these windows {abeve 7') and transiucent class must qe used oR the lower portion.
The co!or of the translucent glass must be reviewed and approved by UEP s#aff to
ensure f(�at if b(ends as closeiy as possibis with the c}ear glass used for the upper
portion of ihe window
The emergency door shown on the Uriversiry Avenue facade must be moved to a Jess
prcminent location so ihat it is noi within the windoav Grea.
2. The developmeni musi provide a high Guality bus sh2lter on t1n"rvetsity Avenue that is
visually irtegral and compatible with ihe archit of �he bui!ding.
3. The r.ew driveway en Snei!inc must be ccnsfructed'acccrding �o pians approved by �
Saint Pa�l Pubi�c Works and MnDGT.
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� Zcr:inC File `, C3 383303
F!ar,nirc Cor?missior , Resciu:ior
Par,� 6 '
�. Fid�:?iG !�ncscapir5 and scr�ening must be p fOV�L�°4� fOf ffl@ DoCK?� �p IOi, j� aCCIiIC(l
fC "t.�ic �ic�C�c SPGWR �(O[;g S;^.er;v�;� qnr? gneiling cr th c CU(:'c(li Dfc';;, c(7 crnar„��;�
metai ?enc= a�Gi;g ?; ic SICEiNc and shade trees in tre ScfCBCK T�USf DE pfOV3d°,'�,.
.,. The neight `or ex#erior I:ghiing `;�iures ir the park;r,g 1ct shall not exceed 20' above
grad2 ard fhey mus; use "cu±-ofi' type fixiures fo reducs spill-over light and aiare.
6. Tne pubiic afiey thrcugh the site must be vacated and an access �asement dedicated.
7. The buiiding must be held back from the University Avenue propery line to al4ow room
for a 1�.' wide sidewalk that will accommodate pedestriar,s and the raw bus sh�iter.
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+�i;tNUTES JF T�}E Zfl�1tNG C���y3:Ti E�
7hvrsday, Februay 5, 2�J0� - 3;3� ;,.m.
Ciiy Cauncii Cham�ers, 3rd Fl�or
�i"ry i-3ai( an� Cour; Nvusa
15'a�/2si ?�a1Sog� Souievard
PRESEUT:
A�SEN7:
AlYCn. Aniang, �aricy, Kramer, Morton, and Meiia
Field ar,d Gordon
S i AFF: Tom Beach. Caroi P{lariineau, Alian Torsienscn and Pe#er VV�rne;
The meeting was chaired by Corrmissiorer Kramer.
�
V�lmeir �am�a�7�ss for �V3 Phar+nacy- t13-383-303 - Si#e pian review for a new CVS P}�armacy. The plan
ca11s far a 13,DQfl sq. #ooi, ane-s#ary re#ail buil�inc� at 3581 University Av�nu� Nlss# (nor#hwes# cor;�er o�
Uraiversity and Snelting) wi#h a�arking lo; aiang S7arnurne t� ihe nr��th of th� bui3dinr�.
Tom Beach oresented ihe ;taff report with 2 recomm°nda'z;an ci appr3va! wiih conditior�s for the S;ze Plan
R2view.
Ak tne auesiion of Commissiener Rnfang, Mr. Beach stated Velmeir Co. wou':d be reducing the number of
driveways and locating them in a better location.
Robert McCiay, represenYat+ve of the applicant, stated Velmeir is the designafed developer for CVS Pharmacies.
He also introduced a nurber of representatives from the organizaiions. Mr. McClay also stafed they agraed �Ni#h
the recomrnenda!ions from the Zoning Staff with the exception oi ine enfrance be moved from the location �
subm�tted on tf:e siie plan. The entrance Iocaf'ton shoufd be a mafter of choice by the developer. He also
explained thai most oi the pat; ons would be eniering from fhe parking !o� and #herefor2 an entranc2 not located
by the parking lot is disadvantageous.
Stevan Margou, Director of Rea! Esta#e Acquis+tiort {or V21r�eir Co., staied that the CVS Pharmacy plars on
opening nine to ien stores this year and another 30 to �0 stores in the ne� four or five y�ars. The plan is have
this store open by November aiong with the other eight or nine s#ores. He requested that the Zoning Committae
give serious consideration to the site olan and recommend approvaf.
At the question of Commissioner Faricy, N1r. Mar.gou gave the other locations that were being looked ai for future
C�1S Pharmacies.
At the qusstion of Commissioner Anfang, Nir. Mangou, stated tne locatior oi the dcor is very important as to
cusiomer orientation and sales. He aiso stated the site has many restrictions and modifcations are being made
buf it can get to a poini that the site design and the iay out of ihe building nfl �o�ger makes sense and fhey wouid
have to walk away from the developmeni.
Jim Lavalle, represeniative o� th2 applicant, stated fhey wou(d be further enhancing ihe windows. There wilf be
more windows ar,d archi#ectural detail. Tne windows �Ni;l be approximately three faet irom ±he sidewaik witt�
possibie a;ched toos with trar�spzrant giass from a five or six ioot levei to the top.
Peter Warner Siated the public h2aring wil! have to be laid over if they submit a new siie plan,
Lori Friiz, Executivs Director of the Midv✓�y Cnamber of Cemmerce. stat�d the fvlidway Chamber ot' Commerce
supports CVS. The corner is v'rtal to it�e ar�a and CVS' presence u�iil be a great improvemert fo fhe arza.
Bi;i Gahr, Presid�nt of the Board c� University Uni,ed, ga��e a background of Universib,� United. Ne also
exoiair,ed thai aiI ne��v deve?opmenfs shou!d be consisteni wifh frans;i developr;ient. G�IS' pian as preposed
r2preser�is a lotivering c; a 5ar for :;�e kind of ;uture developmeni iizat #he commu,�iiy has supported for the
avenues major ir,tn�;ECticns.
Brian ib7ci!�lahan. Execu±ive Gir2ctor o+ Univers�ty Ur-±zsd, �'�ar,de�" o�,t inicr-nation pe;#aining :o the sign�ftcance �f
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Zcnsn? =1e =f�3-� 3�-�0�
Febrsarv �, 300^—., Zonirg Cor.unii�ee til:nuics
. pa '� ?
Ui:iV@(SiiV ,�y°. �;� g�u??� 2�� ,^,°W CEVBICF.'TO�i ShCU�G� �E CO!]51Si��t Wlif`1 t!"i2 yUIC@Iii'8S i�l8j :h ccmmuni:y 2,i C
:ilE CU�!C ,'JCIIC�J u i8: haS L)°2(1 Cr28L°�. Nc4V G�2V91CDf!i2Yli SiIOU�G� ;OEXiSt UVIi�I ifaf7Sl� C@�JE;CD[ilE:li 3;"iG� i�l° Sl'tE
C�2� cS pres2nted coes no't �onform with ihe piar ior ir8 area He passe CUt ,OIC,iif°S SVIIh 2X8fTiDIeS OT
a:�raci�vs buiiCinas throuahoui �.'�e Un;?ed S���s �hat wouid fic in*.o the ;oca:ion. It weuSd be'sn ii12 D25L in�eres� :e
nav� a mixed usa multis:ory building but wi?h :he case or a singfe use occupGncy witn a single stcry buildinc
:het2 are �;ot o, ::",ings that could be dore to make the buiiding =it inio �ne significance o� ihe corner ard re;lect
the interests oi the community. He also reques�ed to lay the case over to work on a site pian ihai will fit with ihe
neiqhborhood.
At ihe quesiion of Commissioner Faricy, Mr. NlcMahan sTated housing U✓ouid work as a mixed use on inat corner.
Upon Guestion ofi Commissioner Mej+a, Mr. NicNlahan stated they have no drive-thrus and that is one of the
questions tha: should be discussed in future mee#ings to have the best davelopment to fif in with the
development ot the area.
Russ Stark, affiliated wiih University United, and runs a subsidiary called Midway Transportation Management
Organization, pointad out that for saiety the windows being constructed wi#h spandrel glass are problematic. The
corner is the busiest bus s:op on the busiest bus route in the whole region therefore the bus stop that is planned
is insufficienY in size. 7here will be a lot of pedestrian business and the iact that the entrance is in the rear facing
the parking iot is a marke#ing mistake. 7he comprehensive fand use plan states places for pedestrians should
be creaizd with emphasizes on transit. 7hare is a huge market for non-au#o customers in this area. The amoun`
�f parking that is provideC far exceeds the parking ne�ds. This parcel is identified on the comprehensive pfan as
a neighborhood pedzstrian commercial district which the project should try to accommodate.
i
Niat Holiinshead, 291� Pinehurst Ave., gave a report on transit trip changing and expiained that at this
intersection trip changing for pedestrian and fransit riders is crucial. Convenience and proximity of destinations
and functions are very important for transit riders and when a single use with a relatively remote entrance is
ailowe� at a transit point #or several bus iines it impedes the abiGty of transit users to do more #han ene thing In
the time it takes fo transfer when time is in the essence which makes having an entrance af the corner is crucia!
to the 3Qp00 peoole that use the bus every day. He also ; equested the cas2 be iaid over until this depth of
detai� can be addressed.
at the question of Gommissioner Anfang, Nlr. Noilinshead suggested there be two entrances to the buildi�g. He
also stated if there is going to be a drive-thru pharmacy �Nhich facili#ates trip chaining for drivers than there
shouid be an entrance far pedestrians which facilitates trip chaining for transit users.
Sacha Peterson, Program Manager for Transit 5or Livable Communities, stated they were in opposition and
�NOUId like the Committee to saek a more transit, people, and communify friendiy design because the community
with tne support of the City has been engaging in e�ensive plenning and visioning for the area and it is imporart
thai the Planning Commission decisions would support those efforts and visions which would accommoda#e the
people �vho ride the bus, waik, and bike in the area. In terms of having the transit system U✓ork in a varie:y cf
mcdes i't is importani ho+�v land is developed and the amounf of parking provided. Areas that provide an
o�ierabundance o� parking tend to encourage zuto use and discourage transit use, biking, and walking. This ar2a
is best served by trarsit and CVS would not be serving their customer base �vith th2 current siie plan. There is
also a corcern wi,h the curreni sife plan underuiilizes tne �roperfy and ignores the signiiicant �conomfc
deveioomert opportunitf2s a� tne site. Knowing that Universi[y Avenue is a future LRT lir,e und *,his intersecticn
� a key sicp on th2 line oppartunities are being ignored in conjunction with jeb opporturities and tax'base. Sk�,e
also staied the Ciiy shouid require oicycle racks.
Andrew Fii�her, r2oresa^iative ci SPARC, siated SPARC is �equesiing inat?he Zor�ing Committee reccrsmend
Q2�tia1 Of ti,e (Ji'��DOS2� SiL2 �Iafl5 011 ih2 pi0Ut1Cj5 iha2 1t ,T,B°,S neither the comprehensiv� �7�8�1 ! iO� fi";? i; 8{';Si�
or:�n:ed deveiopmen± guid2lires #o importan� sfandards there were deve!oped with wide commur�ity oarticipation.
Ne aiso ex�!air�ed SPARC v✓s!comes CVS' d�cis;on to buiid i±s flagsi��ip tvtinnesoia s�ore at Sr.211ing and
�ay�5og
;
oning _ ita �G3-383-303 .
Febr.�ary �, 200—'., Zor.in� Couun�ttee Yfinutes
p:Q�;.
Urha�ersib� and would be happy'.o suppert a store that does adhere to the ccmprehersive p!an a�d :ransit
orienfed design guide:ines. Ne a+so siafed tha*. recommendir,a a piar �h�t is not ccmp{ete and availabie ;or the
reviaUr cf :he commi �ee ar.d public would noi be advisable.
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Seneia �Var„s, 1440 Laiar:d Av�., Hamline Ulidway Ccatition ae�rd �tember, stated the commuriiy has
expressed a clear preier�nc� ior some*.hing that is similar ,c the Midway Boeksiore at the r�a��h2as# cerner. She
en=.ered a picture of a buiiding �,viih a tower into the record and stated thai type of buildinq would make a
comnlemeniary building ard �Nauid make an aNraciive gateway for people coming into the Hamiine(Niidway
neighborheod. One of *.he oroblems that GVS has created is they are attempting to put a suburban mode( cn
what is an urban site and inere is a need tc address ihe bicycl2 aspect.
Steve V�Jensman, 1454 �dmund Ave., reite�aied and touched on aii ±ha subjects discusse3 by the past speakers.
He aiso voiced conce; n peraining to the driv�way inter;ering with the bus stop.
Andrew Comfort, 2886 Jam2s P.ve., staied he Nras an a;chitect intersied in urban design issues. He staied that
iuture use of Univ2rsity fivenua �n�ith LRT would be a good spof ior renter; that use transit.
Mark Vesley, 1598 Edmund Ave., siat=� thai suburban styie develooment should no± be pursued and the CVS
project is jusi a 7ittle piece oi Rosevilie or Coon Raoids thai �nri?7 be dumped on fhe mosf significant corner in ihe
Ciiy.
Paui Nelson, ; 0; 5 Charias Ave., siated he was in iavor oi transit oriented developmeni and any rype o�
developmeni thot prudently provides as much access to the patrons as possibie tivith respect to safety and otP�er
issues. (n ci#ies a good safa acczss is needed for pedes:rians when ii is Iccated in n2avify pedestrian, and ir2ns*
used site.
Rooert McCiay, stated tney wer� respondirg io staff recommendatian as �o the submission o; the si#e pian. Staff
has recommer,ded approval with seven conditions and CVS has agreed to a!1 #he conditions with the exception of
the location of the door. Tney Fave agreed to discuss the windo4vs with siaff.
At the question ot Commissioner Anfang, Mr. McClay s#aied the signage would be clear on the next site plan.
Jpen question of Commissioner Faricy, Mr. PAclay staied the windows and specifics on the signage was the on(y
thing scheduled to be look�d ai. He also stated the buildings that were poin#ed out CVS probably didn't 6ui(d
thern but are renting them and some oi ihe building would not work ior this particular business.
The public hearing remained open.
Ater i�!rther discussion concerr,ing the entrances on the bui?ding ar,d various other i#ams it was suggested that a
lay over be consdered.
Commissioner Faricy moved lay cver uniil Februar� 19, 2004, of che Site Plan Revisw. Commissioner btorton
secorded the motion.
Adopted Yzas - 5 Nays - 0
Drafted bv:
� "„�" T �/��i1�?��.L�
,�> >� ,
Carol �blar:aneau
Recording Secr�tan�
Subrr:iited by: ?,pproved by:
^rv'y
l��vl ,�r.��'> > �� � -�
Tem �eac(� icnard Kramer
Zonirq Secticn Chair
.
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zo��t�� c�n�nniTr�� s���� ���o�
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1. APPLICANT: Vefineir Companies
2. 7'YPE OF APPLlCATIOIV: Site Plan Review
FILE # 03 383303
HEAR3NG DATE: 2/5l04
3. Lt3CAT10S�: 1581 Lfniversity Ave W(northwesi comer of Universiiy and Sneiling)
4. PIN & LEGAL DESCR3PTION: 332923140086 and 332923140068
Brightwood Park, Lots 1-5 and 25-28, Bik 4
5. PLANNING DISTRICT: 11
6. ZONING CODE REFERENCE: 62.908(c)
- >9
7. S7AFF REPORT DATE: 9/"�/04
8. DP.TE RE�E9VED: 10/27l03
ZONING: B-3
SY: Tom Seach
DEADLiNE FOR ACT40N: 2/24/04
A. PURPOSE: Site pian review for a new CVS Pharmacy.
B. PARCEL SiZE: 44,248 square feet
C. EXlSTiN� LAND USE: The south half of the site has a small, vacant bank bui{ding and
parking lot. "(he north haif of the site has a furniture store. The site is divided by a public alley
that would be vacated as part of the project.
D. SURROUNDING LAND USE;
North: Commerciai (8-3) and residential {RM-2)
East: Commerciai (B-3)
South: Commercial {t'D)
West: Commercial (8-3) and parking lot (P-1)
E. TH� Si3E PLAN: The site'plan for the new GVS Pharrnacy shows:
- A one-story building with 13,000 square feet of floor arsa (95' x 136").
- The building would be buil# up to the sidewalk on the University and Snelling sides.
- Windows are shown on the sides facing Snelling and the lot'^^* °�.�!;L-si�e
f�C� �. r..rr�...� rx�Y _ ; x�w ^ ��G .r � J -- ., _ ,: .� � e. � _ ,� � . ;x-..�-
- The main materials in the fa are trrick and EIFS (a maferial that resembles stucco)
- The parking lot would be bel�indJbeside (north ofl the building.
- The entrance to ihe buiiding is at the northeast carner of the building, facing Sneiiing and
the parking lot.
- A drive-thru pharmacy window is proposed for #he north side of the buiiding next io the
parking lot.
- Deliveries from trucks would be handled to the west of building in an area between #he
CVS building in the adjacent buitding.
ZflN1PlG C(3D� CtTA�1{�Pd: Section 62.108{c} of the Zoning Code tisis 11 findings ihe
Planning Commission must mak2 in order fo approve a site plan.
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04-50�
G. DIS�'3�9C'� CL'U�1C1L �2�CCM���li3,�T10N:
�otlo�ving groups:
Namline Pvlidway Coalition
ivierriam Park Communi'ty Council
Saint Ar:thony Park Comrrtuniiy Councl
Sneiling Ham(ine Commuriiy Councif
Universiiy llnited
A public hearing ivas ; equesisd oy ihe
H. �IP1fli�GS: Section 62.108(c) of the Zoning C�de says that in "order to approve the site
plan, the planning commission sna31 cansider and find that the siie plan is consistent with" the
findings (isted befow.
9. The city's adopied comprehensive plan end development or projeci plans fo� sub-areas of
the city.
Tl�e Land ilse Plan
F �i2=—� ��f
r i.. ���;<da -�..
'�, i _
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,
a. A map on page 28 of the Lartd Use Sect+on of the Comprehens+ve Pian identiz�es ihe
S�elling and University intersection as a"Pedes#rian-Neighborhood Commercial
C2nter". Section 5.2.3 (page 27} says thai "design guideli�es [for pedestrian
neighborhood centers] shouid inc(ude the following:
- 8uildrngs out to the s�dewa/k
- Parking Jots to side and rear of bviidings, not in front
- Parking lots screened from the street
- Human-scate lighting
- �ndows fo tfie sidewafk
- Architeciure that respects neighborhood contexY'
The building is out to fihe si�ewalk on University and Snelling.
The parking lot is to the side ihe buiiding.
The currer�t site pian shows a hedge planted along Sneiling and Sherburne to act as a
screen for ihe parking 1ot. !n recent years, the Ci#y has #ypically required that screening
for parking lots in busy, cammercial aress like this include an ornamental metal fence
along #he sidewalk and shade trees in the setback in additiort to a hedge. The current
site plan is not consistent with the screening guidelines for parking lots but would be
consisient if an omamen#al metal fence and shade trees are added.
To be consistent with fhe requirement ror "human-sca�e" lighting, the maximum heighi
should be limited to 20' above grade.
There are windows proposed facing the parking !ot and on Sneliing Avenue. But there
are no windows on University Rvenue. To make the site plan consistent with•this
seciien of the Comprehensive Plan, windows must be added to the Universifij A�enue
facade.
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The scaie of the buiiding fits into the neighborhood context which is a mix of one-story
and mu(ti-s#ory buildings. A farger, muiti-story building would also fit the neighborhood
context but a larger bu+lding would need more ofF street parking. This woutd mean
ei#hsr structured parking (under the buiiding or in a ramp), acquiring additiona! property •
for �arRing er cbtaining a zcning variance for the number of parking spaces.
b. Section 5.52 (page 32} says that 'The Cify will encouraae more housing and jobs fo
Iocale aiong high ss�vice bus routes."
r
p4-5v8
�ne proposed CVS pharmacy would empioy 20 to 30 people.
� c. Section 5_6 (page 32) says that °in pedestrian-oriented neighborhood commercial
centers the City wiU suppert the provision or just enough commercial parking in smali
parking lots frited into avaiiable space. The City will limit the number oi curb cuts on
ccmmercial blocks. Parkrng should be located at the side or rear oi buildings, and
primary business entrances should be oriented io the s,'dewalk'
The site plan shows just enough parking io meet the parking requirements under the
current zoning for the property. If fhe property is rezoned in ihe fuivre io TN-2, the
parking requirement wili be reduced by one third and the development wouid have
more parking than required by the zoning code.
There is one curb cut proposed on each of the three street rrontages. Given that there
are medians in both Snelling and University, it is not feasibie to reduce the number of
curb cuts.
Parking is on the s+de of the building, fronting on Sneiling and Sherburne (but not on
University.) �
The primary entrance is located at the northeast corner facing the parking lot and
Sneliing Avenue, approximateiy 120 feet from the University Avenue s+dewalk. Naving
the entrance on Snelling is acceptable since Sneiling is a major street. However, the
entrance shoufd be moved cioser to University Avenue and made more visible from
University Avenue.
� d. Secfion 8_ 3.2 (page 40) says that "development (on the Universrty Avenue Corridor]
shouid contribute through density and s#e design to the ridership base for public
trat�sportation on UniversityAvenue."
The projec! is as dense as allowed under current zoning requirements unless additionai
parking is provided (by constructing a parking ramp or underground parking or by
acquiring additional land for surface parking.)
The current sife plan can be made more transit friendiy by providing a high quality bus
shelter on University Auenue that is visualiy integrated and compatible with the
architecture of the building and by moving the entrance to the buiiding cios2r to where
people wait for the bus on University Avenue and making it mora visibie firam University
Avenue. _
The Transportation F/an
e. Policy 42 (page 24) says that "the Cify should use its land use and development
regulatory powers to reinforce maior transit destinations and signilicant transfer poinfs
as central neighborhood p/acas, �vhere appropriate. Likewise, when transitways �
busways or LRT - are bui/t, the City should work wifh planning and implementing
agencies to ensure that they a�e designed to support human scale, social fabriq and
neignborhood identrty."
A reiail bussness such as a pharmacy is an appropriate land use at a transfer po�nt
� such as this intersection. However, fhe City's land use and development regulatory
powers �o noi require a largef, multi-story bui�ding at this locatian.
;i
Uy�So�?
�t�er��a�S .
Two other pians were reference� in the requests fer a pubiic hearing. Howaver, neiiher af
ihese plans have been adapted by fhe Ci'ry Gounci! and so ihey are not app(icable io this �
oroject. They have been includEd ror your inforr�ation.
�. The Universiiy A,venue Transit-Qriented �evelopment Frame�vork: SneUing and
Lexingion Areas.
This ptan was recommended ior approval by �he ��lanning Commission in 2003 but ii
has not yet been adopt2d by the City Councii.
The execuiive summary coniains a seciian on the northwest cQrner oi Snsiiing ard
Universifij on page 4 that says: "Communify go�is" for new development af fhis site
include a"signature 6uilc�ing built at the ccrner of a scale fhat supports the sfyie of the
area (2-3 stories at #he street, possibiy more if upper floors are stepped back from the
adjacent sireets). °
The plan recommends a floor area ratio of at least 9.2 for la�d near major intersections
on University Avenue. (Pag2 15)
g. �evelopment Pnncipals for University Avenue (1999) '
This pian was never adopted by ths Cifij Councii. It inc9udes design principies for
University Avenue and "neighborhood nodes":
- Buildings should be onented to University Avsnue
- Buildings should have attracfive pedestrian connecfions to the avenue
- Buildings should ba bui/t up to the sidewalk wifh canopies and other facade
a�iculation
- Nlulti-sfory buildings are sfrongly encouraged �
- 8uildings need to have windows onto the str2ef. (At least 40% of facade)
2. ,�pplicadle ordinances of the City of Saint Paul.
The site plan is consistent wiih applicable ordinances of the City of Saint Paui:
- The proposed use is permitted in the B-2 zoning district.
- It provides enough parking to meet zoning requirements.
- The buiiding end parking lot meet zoning requirements for setbacks, height and floor
area ratio.
- A public alley that runs through the property must be vacated as a condition of siie pian
approval. CVS has aiready submitted the application to vacate tt�e altey.
3. Preservation af unique geologic, geographic or hisforically significant characteristics of the
city and environmentally sensifive areas.
The site plan is consistent with the finding.
4. Protaction of adjacer�t and neighboring properties through reasonable provision for such
matters as Surface water drainage, sound and sighf buffers, preservation of views, light and
air, and #hose aspects of design which may have substantial effects on neighboring land
uses.
The site plan is consistent with the finding it fhe ;ollowing conditions are met:
- The parking lot must be well screened and landscaped. This is important becausa ihe �
' site is at a visi�la location alar+g Snelling Avenue ar�d �here is a targe exisfing parking
lot immediately to the west. Landscaping is needed to visually break up the Iarg�
expanse ci parking. !n addif�on to the tandscapi�g shown on fhe curreni sita pian, tr�ss
i .�:
6�- 508 _
J must be planted around the edge of the parking lot and an ornamental metal fence
2dded along the Sne!ling and Sherbume edges or the parking lot.
� - Outside lighting must be dESigned to minimize ihe impaci on nearby property.
5. The arrangement of buildings uses and faciliiies of the proposed deve/opment in order io
essure abutting properiy andloriis occupants will not be unreascnabty a'fiected_
The site plan is consiste�t with the finding. The building is located along the sidewalk on
bcih Snelling and Universiry with the parking behind. There is an alley thaf currently n�ns
through the sit2 where #he parking {ot is proposed: an easement to Sherburne wiii bs
provided so that traffic in the alley can drive ihrough the parking lof.
6. Creation of energy-conserving design through landscaping and location, o�ientation and
elevation of structures.
7he site plan is consistent with the current design practices for energy conservation.
7. Safety and convenrence of both vehicu/a� and pedestnan traffic both within the site and in
relation to access sfreets, including traffic circulation features, the locations and design cf
entrancas and exits and parking a�eas within the site.
Public Works Traffic Engineering staff has reviewed the site pian and determined that it is
consistent with this finding if the following changes are made in response to the very high
voiume of traffic at the UniversitylSnelling +ntersection:
- To minimize the opportunity for cars making a left turn from the parking lot onto north-
bound Snelling, Public Works recommends that a diverter be constructed in the
� SneViing driveway to discourage ieft tums out.
Cars heading south-bound on Sne�ling and wanting to make a right turn at the
ilniversity/ Snelling intersection may be tempted to avoid the intersection by cutting
through the parking lot. To discourage this, the driveway on Sherburne must be
moved to the west and speed bumps must be installed in the parking lot.
8. The satisfactory availability and capacity of storm and sanitary sewers, includrng solutions
to any drainage probtems in fhe area oi the development.
The site plan is consistent witfi the finding. Public Works has reviewed the site plan and
determined that it meets City standards fior sewers and storm water drainage, subjec# to
minor revisions.
9. Sutficient landscaping, fences, walls and parking necessary fo meet the above objectives.
The site plan is consistent with the finding if shade Trees and an ornamental fence ara
added around the edge cf the parking lot on the Snelling and Sherbume sides.
,
1 fl. Sife accassibility in accordance with the provisicns of the Americans with Disabilities Acf
(ADA), including parking spaces, passenger loading zones and accessib/e routes.
The site plan is consisteni wifh the frnding.
19. Provision for erosion and sedimsnt control as specified ;n the '�Ramsey Erosion Sedirrtent
� and Control Handbook."
The site plan is consistent with the finding.
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Based on the findings above, 'the stair recommends approvzi ofi the site plan for a CtiS �� _�
pharmacy at 158'1 Universiiy Aven��e vVest subject to the following conditions: _�^�
1. Windows must be added to the building facade facing Universiiy Avsnue.--�'"�� °"'�e� :�,;,�
2. The bu;lding entrance must be reconfgured so ihat it ;s cfaser ta and mcre visible frem �' �� -
tJniversity Avenue, ,���'
3. The development must provide a high quailiy bus shelter on Universi;y Avenue ihai is w�,:z;; .
visually integral and compaiible with the archiieciure of the building. ,,_-
4. The new drive�Nay on Snelling must �e construcied with a diverter in the certer to
disccurage !eft tums fram the par�cing lot to north-bound Sre{ling. The curb cut on
Sherbume must be relocaied to the wesi and speed bumps must be instailed in the
parking !ot as determined necessary by staff from Pubiic Wor�cs Tra�c Engineering
Section to discourage traffic from cutting through the parking.
5. Additional landscaping and scrsening mus# be provided for the parking lot. in addition to
the hedge shown along Sherburne and Snelling on the current plan, an ornamental meial
fence along the sid2waik ard shade trees in the setback must be provided,
6. The height for exierior lighting fixiures in the parking 1ot shali not exceed 20' above grade
and they must use "cu#-afP' type fiatures to reduce spiit-over light and glare.
7. The public ailey through the site must be vacated and an access easemsnt dedicated.
Aifachments`�� >
Letters from commuRiiq QLganizations "� . � . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Memo from Velmeir Compan es�-� . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Seciions from tha Comprehet}sive Plan'� : :.._ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Phaios af the site ..�:`' � `"� ,� 19
� ....................�
Siie plan and buildirrg elevations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .'�-:--:��3
Aeriai photo and locafion map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
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SN�L�ING HRNILI�iE ��N�MtJNiTY �OUNCiL
. 1573 SELSY AVE!�(uE, �!tT- 3! i• SA!^E PAU! , MtirvNESCTP. 55704
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RE: Piannina Cqmmistiion revSew of the CtiS Pharmacy site F;lan at Snclling and
Universitv
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,� ,.,, �,., „, _ At Ihc Dccrmber 4, 20Ui. meeting nf the Sncllinn Ham3ine Community Council, the
��, �„«„� I?�ard oP Direet�r5 votc;cf to oppose the site plan desicn for thc CV S F'hamiacy at 1 i8 i
,,.,.,�,,,,„,,,� Universiry ilvenue. Since Dcccmbcr, CVS has redesigned their site plan u�
� �„�,- „ incorpor;�re some of ihc si�ggestions madc t�y thc ]ocal communit,y, L'nFortunately,
�«�..„,,,, M ,,, o �„�,,„ two importaF�t iitipr�iverrici�LS viili nc,cd to be:nade to thc sitc plan.
e..r� morvnah
z,�a, M.,�-.o� 1_ An e+�trance ot� U{�ivprsity AvLnue that is convenient for trnnsit ricti.rs and
�n�W�, nao�-�,,,.�.,.,�, ��edc:5t,r'ians
- ��._. ��. 2. TraEisparcnt gl�gg :�t Ihc cye lev�:i tacirag Universrty Avenuc `pr thc s>3tGy vC
_�� R�-� p��==� tho&c: in5ide aaid outside tfie siore
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Thc SnelSing 1-IarTi4inc Cvmmtmity C;ouncil is conrerned that thc caritim plan c1oc5 noi
conform to Yhc City's C'omprcl�enst�c PIZZZ. llxe City's Transportlt�on Plan, fhc
recommendations �f thc rcccnt Snellirt�-Lexington TOD Planning Smdy, or Che
Univeasity Avenuc Dcvelo��rncn4 Prineip�es, We encourage the Plaaan�ng CotTtmissiun
to cnnsider the transit-oriented nature of the Snclling �3nd University corner. We hopc
Yhc mcmhcri of U�c. �'l:inr�jn�; C.onunission will scc the va7uc �f �7rcivi�tin� an r.nti'ttncc
tc� Qie store and tra.nsparc33t windows on Un9versity Avenue. Both i3nprovemcnts wi11
� L'�n�'��+te the urban ratf7er tl�ara suburban fccl �lic cvmer deserves,
Vcty truly yours, —
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Cotrnci}memUer .iay Rena,3av, tV[ire� A
Mr. Brian MciYlrhon, lJniversity L?niTed
Mr. B;ian ialton. CVS Attvrney
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Eeb-uary 26,2004
Snin. Paui Planniae Cocr:nissioner
} 100 Ciry Hall Ar,nea
2; Fotlydl Sueec West
St. Paul. MN 55t02
Deaz Commisszoners.
Thc Midway Chamber board ar,d its £coromic Developmeni Comm;*ree have iroted
unanimovsly to bc ;upportive o; CVS Drug Store`s �ffort to redevelop the nerthwest comer o�
Snelting and L�niversiry Avenuc. We have discussed me va�ious eFors over the past 1&
months for d;frerenx propas�!s fo develap this sitc and a� - eed that it is ti;r,e for rhis comer Yo be
redeveloped!
Pebruary 25'", Lozi Fritts, Chamber President, testiF,ed before thc eity conncil in favor of
appro�ing the Summa.ry of vhe Universiry Avenue Transit-Oriented Deveiopmenc Frame�voxk:
Srslling and Lexingtor. Areas as part af the City's Cornprehensive Plao. �is. Fritcs staced thai
the Midway C2�arnber supprntc the pr,'nc:ples of TOD. We acknowtectge tha? TOD principle.e
C2u:.°. Sf.""wl:iVf vliliuiTiaS'ei�u >�'idCcS fU�'✓c�JEi ii'£ .�yl'�it'jjY OClI@VL' ''�J7gi (f!N F:13C�CEL�JIflC2 1t1LL9t })C
*.aken inta co^sid�tion. Thc prir.cip:es thencselves shocld not dictate w4�at rype of bwine"sses
should bc eseab;ished, Additionatly, the chamber beiieves t�at the needs of tt�e businesse;
si;ould be consdered. The questien, what does a business r.eed tc be successt��l? Should be as
important as what ehc cxtcrior of their bui;ding'ooks lika.
Rcpresentntives tor C V S have vrozked w�th Courc'rl mem�er Benanav, ciry stzfr at PED and
rhe design center �or the Riverfront Devetapraent Corporation. They havc made several
r�visions so their pl2.n +.c incotporare ?�JL� princip:es atlo�,ving far e be��zr 5t ;r„o .hi; �;�y
L't�JaT'i inte*S�GtiGtl. CVS'S �jflt1 R7CCt5 �CoU!TeS{ �gIlj?]o 7'��l�atlOtic npA L�3ef h3yC n?d= Z
cor.ccrted effort to meet addi:ional design atemcnu reiace3 to TOD that arz opiional vnder
cucrent City regulations. To ksep p:oer�ss moving forward in the Mdway, the leng2h ofiime
neccssary for fhis process needs tn sta}� �n check ar,d what is roquired vs. ogtzonal, needs to be
c!ezs.
7Y;e process and fon:m chc TOD communi.ry meKings provided we*,e a 5rat educ2iional
opportunity for arca busina=<es, deve;opers anc rosidents to tearn more abaut TOD principies.
Let's continue to work for improved site pians and 6u'tldir.� a cemmunif_y can be proud of, but
be mindfu! �.hac #Iexibility is the key io o�r fur�re success in attractingnew business ventures.
Heip us sup�nrc the �eeds oi me business coramuniry as wetl as area resident,.
We f ei it is a great oppacNnift; for *.ne Miriway co ariract ievestmeni from a stron2 natianal
retailer ail a;irhout P:.'BL1C SJ$SiDY. This store wi11 Ue a significant improvement ovc,- the
now vacant bank and ag.d fiuniti:re sto:e. The 30 jobs CVS will brin� are dcsperately needee.
Wal-Mart recsived 2,500 applicat;ons for 359 iebs for its �ew Midway sterel!!
Spr�ce Tree Cer,:re � Sui[e =C • ib� liniversi€y Avcnue �Jest � St_ Paui, �IN S�l��
PHC3tiE: (551} ��5-2536 FAX: (05,164b-2297 W'F'13STTE: www.midwaychamber.com
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� Tf:e bozrd an5 oc5ers w} o have wor'se3 as � embe:s of the Mxdway Chur.be: ofi Comme-: c?o
atYzc: new investme-t aze suong}y ;n zavox oi t2�e CVS Drie Store p*oposal. Tti<_ devcloper is
� pa}ring for 160% o f Lhis project out oi �:vate rssaa?ces. Lire E�ink fi�cir ptaposed 3eeig. is a
huge i:nprovemen. ove; :he aow vacsnf bank, and aged £urniture �tore t�at are curreptly
on the s�te. t�i e weicome CVS anG ;ooic ro^+�z�d .o !hez- acdve p�^acicatien in a dynamic znc
� owing'.4f;dway area! Pfease aaprove CVS's site p7zn. -
T"nank ycu �or your cczs'u
3u:cezaly,
ou Vang
Chair, Midway Chaznber of Commerce
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February 26, 2004
�. , ._�- l 1iA.. � 1 II IL 4_ _ 1 II
�asjrr l�auz ��. Mary Bn�toa
CHAMBE$ OF COMMERCE Sa.i212 PHLIP��ititgC0123ID2SS10Il
1200 City Hall Aanex.
25 Fczurth Straet yyest
e Saint Pau1, MN 55102
40i �ortfi gobert Shee1
Suite 156
Saiat P3++1, Minuesota Si201
Pho¢e: bi1223S000
F� 651.223.5219
s�a�o� se�a�� cenxu
3262 Rice StreeY
Liitle Ca„a�, Minnesota 55226
Phone: 651.?j6.4�0
Fax: b51256.4771
YOUR
BLTSZNESS
Dear Mary,
�
On bahalf of the Saint Paut Area Chamber of Cominerce, an o baznization representing
nearty 2,104 area businesses, aud in partnership wi� �e ��tway Cliarnber of
Commerce, we wouid like to e�ress our support for the CVS Drug Store's effort to
redevelop the northwest corner of Sne�ling and University Avenue.
CVS I)rug Stares has entered inio purcl�ase agreements for this corner and e�ects to
invest some $3.0 million in ihis community_ CVS has presented plans for a new 13,000
square foot drugstore and surface pazldng lot. This development would generate an
esrimated $15 miliion in sales aad employ up to 30 employees.
This is not only an opporhmity for the Midway azea but for Saint Paui to wefcome a
strang narional retaiter which will bring new services, er�ployees aad customers to fhe
area, all e�thout pubide subsidy. The revenue generated from the CVS drug store
would aIso provide inereased funding for STAR b ants; fivads that t�ave he?p revitalize
many azeas of Saint Paul. �
Importantly, the CVS plan for this site meets required zoning regulations. Recent
discussions have focused on desigz elements that are optionat under current City
regulations. For Saint Pau1 to continue to be a City that welcomes investrnent such as
CVS has proposed, it is critical that the private sector understand and adhere to a1t
REQUIKETJ re�°nlations. CVS has done thai. However, not only the Midway but all of
Saint Pau1 wilI sufFer if iavestments such as CVS is making are subject to er,haustive
and unproductive discussion and delay about issues that aze not required in the current
code. The privafe sector is wilting to meet appropriate and cIeaz regulations. 'I'ha
private sector will quickly � ire of doing business in a community where "adviso.y"
recommendations are used to delay pzojects and drive up costs.
Recognizing that mai�t�ng good relarions with the broader community, CVS Dnig
Stores has been a willing participanf i� numerous discussions related to the design o£ tlus
project. And, as a resutt has made significant changes in its initia.i design to more
closely re�ect neighborhood values.
The Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the CVS Drug Store
propasa2 and their commitment to the Midway area and Saittt Paut.
Sincerely,
�� ��! ��
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Lary Dowell
Saiat Paui :4rea Chambe: of Commerce
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Pa� oT �
� Nlary 8rutan - �r�posarl Nlidway C'�lS
From: "Benham, Nichoias" <NBENHAM@stthomas.edu> .
To: <lka@alex�nderstrategies.com>, <brian�a mcday-ak�en.com>, «mcolettamn@yahoo.com>,
<;dandrea@mca.ne*.>, <carelecompany@comcast.net>, <dfieldjr@ccfie!d.com>,
<hfo`s�'�@fotschanddanielsen.com>, <leengeo@bigioot.cam>,
<solivina.kong@house.leg.st�t2.mn.us>, <tm@mardeApartners.com>, <d<co�@larsonking.com>,
<ju!ies�ortridgerolmindsprina.com>, <tarry,soderhotm@cistpaul.mn.us>,
<mary. bruton@ci.stpaul.mn. us>
Date: 2j26(2004 3:23 PM
Subject: Proposed Midway CVS
Dear Planning Councii Member:
This Fr'sday I wil{ be closing on my first house which is {ocated in the
Hamline-Midway neighborhood, After many months of searching throughout both
Minneapolis and St. Paul I finaily faund a house that was affordabie, stiil
had old-world charm, and was located in a strong and vibrant urban
community. i am excited to live in Midway, and I believe there (s great
potential for urban, community-friendly, transit-oriented design along the
� University Avenue Corridor, I disappo(nts me that CVS is not as excited
about this potential as I am.
CVS' vision stacement states that "An integrai part of this vision is our
investrnent in the communities we serve". It is apparent to me after
reviewing the design plans for CVS' proposed Snelling/University Avenue
location that CVS only plans to invest in brick, mortar and invenCory and
not in the development of the Midway community. As a business student at the
Universiry of St. Thomas, it surprises me that CVS is not attempting to have
its s[ores compliment the surrounding neighborhood, especiaily since they
are attempting to successfully enter into the Twin Cities marke[. But
apparen[ly CVS believes that since they wili be located on the busiest
intersection in the Twin Cities, they do not have to take the opinion of the
community in which they operate into account.
I hope that CVS will review their vision statement, work with the community
to develop a design that truly invests in the potential of the Midway, and
becomes a contributing and welcomed part of the neighborhood. If CVS refuses
to do this, I hope that the St. Paul Pla�ning Commission clearly shows its
beliefi in the po[entiai of the Midway and rejects the proposal. LeYs
support smart growth!
�
Sincerely,
Nick Benham
<°nailto°�benhamCas"�homas.e�u> n6enham@sithom�s.edu �^,,�
file:/IC:�Documents G0003.I-1TV1 2/�0'/2004
0�-508
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Xcel Energ:�
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February 19, �004
City oi St Paul 7_oning Cnmm"
C ity F�lalt
St Paul, tulN 55102
T�ezr Commissioners,
Please Fnd aiYach�d a cnpy of a m�mo, Stevc Wellington, U(idway Chamber af Commerce board
membc; and chni: o� our £conomic Deve;oomant Ccs�mittec, wrote in :esponse .o actians of the
commvnity grouu Universiry Unitcd. '}'he memn detaii� the reasoning of the chamSer's
cont;nued supgort oi yic site p1an of CV 5 Dmg Store. Pleas� aecapt this mer,o for the pubiic
recerd of;odau's hcarin�.
Ihank you and once agaia wa ask'.hat Cv5's proposai mc�vc iozwa*d sv th;s important corncr
can bc redevcloped.
Sincerciy,
�, ����
f oti D, Fritts
President
14id«av Chamber of Commercc
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� 'To: I�rian ivlcDrSab.on �3 Russ �tarK, u�V ersii5� I:niYe�
Fr: Steye �Neliix�g?en
Re: CV S
Dt: Janaary 25, 20Q4
i read vrith some di3appoin�ent Rsss' recent c mail to Lori r�gar3ing Cti 5. I; is ob�:ous
that liniversit�a United is very ciisappoint�d witl� the ,�Iidsv�ay Chamber — not anly for nc�
position taken by thc board bui by i�he process employed to re�ch that decision.
First I would like to say that I have personally been committed to d2:using tlie tensions
that have existe� historically between University United and th� Chamber. We ne�d to be
as united as possible 9n our mutuai effozts ca encourage sound investment and gzawth not
only along U;u�zrsity Avenue, but throughaui tlie Midway azea. While each organizarion
has certaan differences in its objecti��es and constitueocies that should not preyent us ,
from warking cooperatively.
That being said th�ze have been in the past and theze will continue to be occasions when
the two organizatiozas will come to different conclusioas regardzng developroer.t and
plannir� issues. The Chamber's objectives and membership is quite focused on the needs
� �f the smaiier businesses in ihe area. While the concerns of srnail business are concerns
of Universiry United as weli, I t,`sink it is faia ta say thai you have staked out your "turfi'
by articulafing good urban design and thc health of the surrounding zesidential
neighborhoods as complemeni�y and perl�aps moze importaYSt objectives. I think you
seek a balance betw�een the business anterests and these othez in4erests.
I really do think there is rooan foz both visians. Tf�e business cnmmunity in d:e Midway
ne,�ds a strong and unqualified voice. The Czty has traditioaali}- placed t?ie business and
economic developmant interests of downiown way ah�ad oF those in the Midway. There
is always a way to find dollars for a ne�v rleal in the CBD, bui similar resouzces are often
lacking for p�ojeots in otar neck of the woode. This downtowt� bias is exacerbated by the
more t�cenY commitment by the City to the east side. Tbe very legirimaie aeeds faz
business in.vestment around the P'.ialen Corridor ha�e ted to surjng public suppo.tt fer
econouuc redev�lopment in ihat area pf the city. With so much committcd to downtown
sud Yhe easi side, there is vezy little availabie foz our end of the city.
i think we agres that attracting a new Cy S dru�store to tha Sneliing and University
intersection would be a good thing. t�e differ on the somel�hat nsrrow bui impot�ant
issue of design. .4s we muh-:ally .�resde w�th this amga_rtar_t question, piease corsice, Lhe
followine:
�.�.���i �1�,'`yuiiic`��v�
� Redevelopment an;�;�l;e;e zakes p!�:. �,ithir_ the contex. e; -�;,k�t c�a3itions. i:e ccr•.e.
af Sxaeliang and linive�siw .�venue is no� coing �o be pa-kland or a public facilit3�. it'e
IICEC� p17Y$�C SRl%�Sii?i�Ri t6 2C: �C:B: C1R�^itti ti �-i � t3Zl(� � 1�i(:Z�C'. �riII ;L:;.i`Tc1C': i%2 C^v�'lET
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b�l- 508
r�evelc�pe� flur o4tions are tixely 1iz�ite3.ta ttuee seciors: oxizce, houszng ar retai7. CE �
the t�rea, zetail is the cnly sestor sho�ring any szgns of �i;e. C}ffice markst ccndi�ons are
exceptioIIally weak. Ubless svme nan-i ro�i se3ecie3 this iocatian for a na�v facil;ly no
dereieper is gc3iLg tc canstruct an oE�ce buii�ing on this site in the near futura `I?te ,
aparime:�f market is alsa quite w�eak. �iL alsts k�ave'tw apar�ient projec`s (Episcapal
Chsu�ch �?amies anc3 848 Basty 5�) remazniag t� be fully leaed and develQ�ed. u`e aiso
have oua gretty shaky dea3 oa �e drawing boazds (the Jo�uxson Bms. Site). In Terms of
candominiums, tbe Snellin3 corner is simply not a geod aune;sh:p site, Que io 1sLk of
amenities. 4V"ithaut ve,ry substantial public su�s;dy, ownership housing would not be
fessible.
2. COS?S
The site assem�ly casts for this carner aze very hi�. I do not have t�e cemglete picture
but i azn told by reliable sources that the act�uisi.tion costs for the two sites in question
(the I7akata Bank garcei and the furni?use store} excced $3.a millian. Thiy is easilv th;ee
tituies what She rnasket value of the Iand 'as w�rth. The only griti entit=,- with the
resources availabie to pay this substantia? Iand premicu� is a high volume saies zetail
fasility I?ke a cirug s.or�. !�,s a means of camparison a fast foed gad site in ttte Midwag�
ares would g� far �640,�it?0 -$9QO,Otl(f. A ban.k pad siir would He ir� the �444,fl00 -
$754,4a0 range_ A gas station site 4�ould he iaa the $3..Z Ari -�1.5 M taz�ge. Walgteens will
pay exceptional land prices for prime comers, Peshaps as high as $3,0 million. it appears �
L'�at CVS �as decided t17at the same Iand economics waxk for them.
To be £air, higher density design can usualI� af�ard higher Iand premiums. For example,
uzy ccsmpany had very high land assembly costs for the Emerald Gazdens and 808 Berry
St. projects. But $1e tar ralue af the site an a pre-develapmeni basis was very low. In
addition, demand far high density deveiopment {apst,zi�ents and condos) +�as reasanable.
?he City wa,v persuaded to help offsat the hig� land costs with TIF subsidy since ihe
zetum to the public �tia.s mDre than suffiaient to offsei the aubsidy. Vv ith the interr
of TIF subsidy, yau can offset the }�igh land costs in redevelopment areas and gei the deal
Yo w Everybody winsY Nice design. Appropriate density.
ilstfartunately, t}iese soat af redevelopmezti e�onomics just do not wark oui ererywhere.
dt is quite unlikel f that the City �vouid e�er cansider TIF subsidy for the SneiIiY�g comer.
The uecesssay #ax increment just would z�ot work ont finarzcially. 7`f�e existi� tax base is
simpiy too hig,h. I3igh density o�ce or housing is not econo_*aically feasible. .�s a result,
we are faced as a l�idwa;� community w tr�ind to encaurage prvate investmen. or:'�st
ve�y sxpens:ve site with no Dublic subsidy to asssst our efforts.
3. RETAIL I3ESs�`=
The design o i the propased CV5 si�re is nai perecL 'aut it h� a r_umber oa°positive
at#tibutes. l�iest ;Fr_: o��tly, it respecis t�e "ur�an edse'' b:' ?ecating ?tel2 cn the comer. , �
The existing ba.-uc, w the par�ng fot out fron;, is very suburb�n�. I a se think ;�e CV S
�335 3T1 3t21'2.C:.15'e ��L�i f'�C2*j.°,. '_l'ii1�: 8£Ijli_C'�Ti:�Il:S 3�� �PT7?a�5 t,^. OiuCi Fi �":*P,5 �1i c?Tee`.
� r.
."�s
' �j�(-$
� le�e? windows aad doa.�. I la:aw ihese aze impo�iant eleneats_ b� i z�eally ti3ink 4+ri4'� z
�o4perarive �ir.t=xe can �vark :hsaug� zhese issues. tiv�at is �:r_;�ise zrom my �erspec*i�e
is anv e$ort io i�ict m�1ti-story design oD. ti�e C4 S gl�. 4V ° ru.� the risk o? them simpi;
tuming do� this tocar�on znd going elsewhe:e_ It is unlikely tt�2t sve t�7ll securs anp
land of feasitle camgazable use _`�r this szte any�xbeie iu1 the rieaz fi:ti:re if 'taat h�cn�.
�iir_or ad}us�nents ia desi gn — fine• Opposiaon to thei� existing praposal — no, tbat wo��1d
be a big r istake.
4. HOW 1b1tiCH LEVER�GE REALLX EXISTS7
Tl�is is perl�aps Lhe trickizst question. !-1 retailer who uants a Grand Avenue locauon
praciically has no choice but to accept preYy much whatever ihe City and the community
require in terms af good uiban design. TI'�ere aze al�vays certain linits, but in
exceptionally strong retail markets, requiring a moze expensive and sometimes
impraetical design can work. Is 5nelling and UniLersitp such a situation? Does CV5 want
this site so deeply that it wi11 de pretty much anything to iocate a drug store an that
comer? Frankl,*, it is impossible to rcally answez this questiotr. iVty own ti7ew is Yhai CVS
is likelr to simply do ather sztes in the Tw CiYies if this site gets too impractical, This
Tsvin Cities azea can cleariy suppozt a sirong #2 drug stare chain. Commercial brokers
througb.out ihe atea arc ��otking hard to iden`afy loeatiozzs for these stores. Snellinu is a
� good locatiDn, but CV5 will rank all the real es�ate inveKinents presented and dctermine
i£they can turn a buck at each szte. I ihink zt would be unrealistic to think tl-,at
Snelling(University is a"must 3iave" location. L'niveasity AVeaue is no ('irand Avenue.
In conclusion, I would ask you to reflect on the pofential ncgative consequences of
Universiiy United insisting tao sirenuousiy that CVS's current proposal is incompatible
wit}1 a better and more successfui University Avenue. Yout or�anization has had
remsz'kable success in advocating for atad achieti a number of posiuve, weil-designed
projects along tbe avenue. J£ you end up blocking this important de�elopment, I really
fe�t our mutual effarts to move tlni�ersity Avenue ahead will be set back pretty sev�rely.
Thsse cancems are what led the boazd of the 3vT?du�ay Chamber to strongly support the
CVS glan. We urge yaa ta be cautious with pour advocacy. i�%e certainly do not wanL to
end up with ihe status quo.
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Pa=e i �#� 1
Zc�� 8each - Suppd�rrsentai Testaanany fpr P�ubtic Hear"sng c�n C1lS �harmacy
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From: "Warns, Benita B- EaQan, MN" <beaita.b.��,�arns@usps.gov>
'I'a: �i'om.beach@cistpaul.mn.us>
�a#e: 2/19/2004 1:44 PM
Subject: Supplemental Testimony for Public Hearino on CVS Pharmacy '
��: <ward4@cistpaul.mn.us>, "Russ Stark" <rstark@universit�united.com>
i obtained the documents ouUining t�'�e �hanges to Yhe CVS Pharmacy proposal and, aiter re�iew, have
nat changed my opposition to the p1ans. The biggest issue for me is locatian of the main entrance. Had
CVS been wilIine io do one of two ihings — either add an enfrance at or move the door to the corner of
University and �neiling — I could have supported their request. In li�t oi ihe fact tl2at CVS is
unwiliing to compromise on the item o£ most concern io our neighbarhoad, I remain opposed to granting
the request to CVS to vacate the alley. I find it ironic that CVS is willing to proi�ide a bus shetter, but
located at about the fasthest point from their proposed main entrance. This development proposal does
not}�ing to enhance our communify's image and caTers Yo auto h at the expense of tc users,
bicyciists, and pedestrians. I urge the Zoning Committee to deny CV S Pharmacy's request to vacate the
alley.
Benita Warns
1�140 Lafond Avenue
St. Paul, M!J 55904-2438
651-64i-1G37
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T;;e Merriasn Park C'�rnmuiiity C. <>t3ncil docs nat sezp�ort the avrent ��rnrcnal fvr deveb�iment of
a CVS pharmeiry c>n I.he c<�mcr o1'Snclling and Clnzversity Avenues. Wc; bclicvc that tIais ]ocation
in ot�r comntuttity demsnds :i bcl[cr buildinr; dcsi�n, Numerous efiurts und comm�mity inpttt have
�z�d�catcd that ihn cvmmuniiy would like t<� sec a dcs�gzl conaisteut with a pedcstrian fi•iendfy
environmenT and transit-oriciated dcvclopmerat. Tt�c cum;nt proposal dnes n�t meet ctther
standard. Atthnu�h wc ,uP��or� the �ha*rc�acy e�se ttt this locaE�on we object to the dcsi�,m bccause
it does noT �a�eet desi�,*ri stanctards as ouElmed m tt�e prcvious area cicsign sPUdies.
7'l�c community'v viyion is to havc a cixuHS-story, mzxed ttse develapmenk, with eignircar.t
tr��nsparency and acccss alon� Univer,ity ar3d Snelling. Thc iiotiic;n ,hc�uld carer to pedestrians as
much or rroorc lhan automobi(es.
bVe understand that the U�ansit-oriented clesigr, itud�es �ri nut in E'ull c fI'c c;i ar ,� maPtcr of racord.
Noyvever, the recornn�endutioaiv fr��in Tliose �iuclias is tlie wish o; Tlic cnmrnuni[y. W� cxnne�t
tiuppc�rt a de vcfupment chat xusas coua�ter to Ylzose ade�ks au thc current prnnosal doe,.
Tf ynef havc questions, pieusc contact "I'l�aresa Heiland aet our oftice.
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Mcrriarn P�rk i'ocnmunity (:;uunai
cc: llave Cia,*ne, t3amline Nlidway C�oaliYior
Brian McMahon, Uf;iversity IJti'ITED
t'oui�ciimember Jay 13enanao
Dr. James Marti. �iS'C'C'
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Page 1 of 1
Tarn Seach -�cmrnents on CVS proposaI
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Fram: "Kim Hurter" <khunter@kimhunteriaw.com>
To: <ward4@ci.stpavl.mn.LS>
Date: 2/18l2004 10:12 AM
Subject: comments on CV.S proposa( '
Dear Councilmember Benanav.
i am writing to ragistzr my comments on ihe proposed CVS b�ilding.
Untortunately, ! was out of tcwn for the February 5 mee#ing and wili be
unavailable fomorrow as weli. Piease forward my remarks as appropriate so
they become part of the record on this subject.
I live ihree blocks from the corner of Snelling and University. I want to
be dear with CVS that many residents' concerns, induding my owr., are not
simple knee-jerk "NIMBYism," 1 have not heard anyone say an outright "no"
to CVS. Rather, my concerns stem from the propsed building design and its
contribution to the car culture that cur;ently dominates our part af town.
AI!owing CVS io proceed wi,h no windows onto Snelling and University, and to
proceed with no doors on either of those sides to the building, would be a
major setback at a time whan the neighborhood is positioning itsalf for
better transit-oriented development. The propsed design, as I understand
i± merely ploqs a'traditionaP suburban-sf�jle building onto one of the
most we{I-traffckad and transit-dense areas of the Twin Cities. Ailowing
it to go forward as planned wouid simply be wrong.
My husband and i often discuss our regrets around the design of Midway
marketplace (sidewalks on only one side of the street leading in, ioo many
driveway cuts, etc). The proposed CVS development provides an excellent
opportu�ity to bring more pedestrian and transit-friendfy desig� #o the
neighborhood, at a scale appropriate to a dense urb2n neighborhood. We hope
the opportunity to recti� the CVS plan does not also pass us by.
Kim Hunter
Artorney at La�v
!(im Hunter & Asscciates, PLLC
821 Raymond Avenue, Suite 305
St. Paul, MN 55� 14
651-641-0440 (Phone)
551-6?1-8689 (Fax)
www. kimhunter(aw.co m
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Pebruary 18,2C0�
Nir. To�it"'BeaG1
Of�ice of LIEP
3Z0 Lo�nrry Professional Bu.lding
350 St_ Peter Sh�eet
Saint Paul, M:\i 55102
Dear Mr. Beach,
�
On behalf of tne Z3an�line Midway Coaiition I tivould like to raise several
concerns with �he current site plan proposai for the CVS Pharmacy buiiding
at the nortizwes� corner of Sneliing and University. T should rnention that T
have oniy seen t1e original site plan dra�vin;s, but have heard that revised
plans have been submitCed th.at only partiallv addres= some of my concerns.
First, the CVS Pharriacy site plan does not meet the recommended Uuilding
heighc znci mass guideIines of receilt Hamline ?vlidway plannino for that site.
The Revi±alizatior. Plan for North Snelling Avenue, completed in the fail,
2001, notes that "curreni buildinn height, bull<, scale and density are severely
undersized in relation to the street cross section oi both Universicy Avenue
and Snellin� Avenue," (Pg 32) he or ;2gsed CVS Pharmacv building
continues this undersized developpr_„t�en;•
Second, a 2002 eommunity meeting af axea businesses and residenls to discuss
development and design optzons for this northwest coi7ler of L;niversity and
Sr.elling concluded that any develepment of fllis sice should be oriented to
tTie corner, openinb onto University Aven�:e, with pedestrian friendiy access
to Ehe business irom that corner, and should Ue no less �nan t�vo stories in
heioht. The �ro�Qsed CVS Pharmacv buildino- rzil� 'o -neet this
recommendation.
�
Thi; d, since 199% v,�e ha�Te worked ex�ensively �cvith small businesses aionb
UniversitV Avenue and Snelling Acenue io persuade them to improve their
Uui?ding facades along tl.ese major corr:dors. In �e«eral eases we asked
businesses to add doors, winaows, decora:ive excerior treatmer�#s and 'oetter
?ightin; to create pedestriar. f*iendiv commercial environmzncs and improue
CI12 D2SC�Dt'-Oil Of 1:�"' carrid�rs t0 T�d�.ilil velucula* �Z2Ii3C and E*ansi� riders.
In e��ery case chese ss�aI1 businesses a�zeed with the vision o_` the
su*rounding com*_nunz!y and implem.ented char.�es. CVS has ei*her refused
t}ed¢r.�ted ta �ra�ifz� Ihe F!ansline Mi�1^viay nedghbor,Sood � hexer p'tac� to dive anzd u�ork.
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to make such cnanges or ha� oaly par� atly resporcded. W_z�� sho�.ud CVS
?hax�-nacv ue allowed io i*eat our nei�h7�orlioods ou� comrre*cial can�dors
a-�d Iloves for thc futc�re �nv dif'erent �t1an the'r adiacent 'o-.i ine<c n iah� b� ors�
Pourth, the CVS Pharmacy p*oposal weakens our ongoin; ettor�� to provide
increased gub:ic safety through the desiVn of commercial buildings. I
pe:iadically wait for either the �Tr.iversitti- Avenue n16 bus at tlle nor��hsvee�
corner of tl�:s intersectian or the Mazshall/Lalce Street n2" bus at the
soutlrwest corner. On several occa=ions I h,atire eitlzer witnessed ar had
probiems on the sireet w peopie threatenin; me and other bus passen�ers
�vaifin; at the=e locations. In each case ? t•vas assiste� by someoze inGide a
bui2ding who could ��ieF�r tne street iroln their bui2du and ca11 for assista:�ce.
In one tase quicl< access into l•he Sp*_uce Tree Center through its ent-2nce on
tlze corner af linic�ersitp and SneIling l�etped me and sec-erat other passen�ers
avoid a threatening situation. �f CVS does not add sia ifica�t see-clirou�h
ovinceaws on LTniversitv �lvenue and �nePina Avenue one of �he un'tntended
consequences ma�be tc� c*eate oot�zitial erime �ones
Tl�e Gty of St, Paul Crime Prevention Through LnvironmenEai Design
(CPTEF7 ) program notes diat "Cziminals don't want to be seen. PlacisiJ
nhysiczl features (such as doors and windows, zrty note)...in �ra;Js tl�at
maximize the abiiity to see what's �oing on discousagas crime.° The
advocates of CPTED conduded that police should "�ror.t- tiviti� urban planners
and arcl�ifiects to revieu� the desid s and plans in order to enlZanc2
community security". CVS Pharma�,v can be gazt of th� sotution rather than
Avenue and Snellin�Avenue.
Finaily, I cti�ant to urae the St. Paui Zonulg Comrztitfee and Planning
Commission to continue t�hezr efforts ta support and encourage St. Paul
neighborhoads, busin�ss clistPCts and commercial corridors �o x>ork for a
fuf,.ue in which public safety, pedestrian access and hansit friendly
deaelopmene betome essential buiIdin� biocics for t2�e 21rst Cenfury_ T1�e
nrogosed Ctj� si'e nlan must�l e'�eici to theGe same standard
Si� e1y,
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ca�,.�e— �-e
David Gab e
Economic Development Coordinator
Hamline Midwa�� Coaiition
cc A11an Torstenson
L"ar_* Soder;:olm
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SN�LLIi�IG HAMLII�IE GJMMUNITY COUNCIL
• 7' ScLBY AVENUE, SUITE J 1 1 ' SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 55104
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VIr. Tom Beach
Office of LIEP
310 Lowry Professional BuIldina
350 St. Peter Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102
RE: k'ublic Hearing on CVS Phannacy
Dear Mr. Beach:
�oaE. A�oEaso�
*�M=�M� ' At the Januaxy 8, 2004, meeting of the Snellin� Hamiine Community CounciI, the
^'E°°^� °°a°E�� Board of Directors reaff`u�med its opposition to the current'site plan desi�n for the
"`p"GR`'"` CVS Pharmacy at 1581 University Avenue. Our objections include the following
,��,E �o���o�
concerns:
oo� ��oEMa��
A�exanoqq Mwvo�Nt _rv
pa o Mo o - The submitted design features a one story building with its only entrance off a
zq , E ,� M rear parking lot, and has no windows or doors facing University Avenue, and
� E _ o � is not in conformance witb TOD guidelines or with the Revitalization Plan for
E s,� Pq „ North Snelling Avenue, completed in 2001 by Hamline Midway Corporation.
5„i4�[v Re�o[A
KR« R�s���� - The proposed project is not in cqnformance with the City's Comprehensive
��M R�a���� Plan, the City's Transportation Plan, the recommendations of the recent
"�°�^° �`�`°"a Snelling-Lexington TOD Planning Study, or the University Avenue
Development Principles.
Enzcvi�ve DiaECroa
a«nE��E�E oE-w,�Ea We are opposed to this project as it is currenfly designed. We urge CVS to
consider alternative designs that follow TOD guidelines and Universiry Avenue
Development Principals. The Snelling Hamline Community Council requests
' that our continued opposition be read into the public record at the February 5,
�Ot34, Pnblic �ear�g-
Very truty yours,
„'�,�.�',�--�
: � -'
Travis Snider
Board President
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Cc. Mr. Brian Alton, CVS ATtomey
Mr. Joel Spoonheim, City of Saint Paul, PED
Mr. Russ Stark, linive:sity United
Councilmember Debbie Montgomery
Councilmember Jay Benanav
W�MW.SNELLHAM.ORG 65�-644-1085 SHCC@SNELLHAM.ORG
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DE? �--� ��FJ� 13: F38 t ROM: UNIVERSI � l' UNII"ED ESi�.41�243 Tn: 256�'�99
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A Cocliticn e{ Midwey Cifizens &�usir�esses
December 19, 2003
Tom $each
��IC� Of �,�D
310 Lowery Professional Building
350 St. Peter S�eet
St. Paul, MN 55102
Dear Tom:
Re: CVS Store
Un=.versity UN�'I'ED has taken a pasition ia� opposition to the desig� for a new CV S store
at Snelling and University, and has previously shared L�is resolution wit'� you. Z am now
writing to add our supporY for the action tl�aY was taken by tIie City Planning Commission
today for a publie hearing to discnss key policy issues prior ta the issuance of a building
pemut.
Pour of IJNITE,'3's meanber oaganizatians have also joined in the cali for a publac
hearsng, including Hamline M'sdway Coatition, Snelliaag Hamline Comutunity Cauncil,
Merriain Park CommuniLy Council, and the St. Anthony 3'ark Community Cauncil.
Attached ase letters from #hese organizations.
Thank you for yoar considerateon.
Sincerely,
ff�.,� JN2.��I/��
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Brian McMahon
Executive Direc#or
7°54 University Avenue, Suite 9• St. Paui, MN 55�04
Phone (651} 647-&711 � Fzx (fi51) n�i-0293
www, univer;iryunited.com
P.i��
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DEC-;'�-c�o' 13:9° FROt9:UhiPJERSI?`! UNITED 5516a1ti12°3 10:25E9�99
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I573 9e?by Avenae •�ui[.: 321 • S[. Fact •':rlinnasot, • 5516a
www.mesri�rn-gark.arg • ccmcrsatn2Dagilitinet
teI:651.645.5887 • fax:65:.417.999t
'I6 Dec�m+�ec ZC�Q3
Mr. Tom 8each
4.fEP Zoning Office
3'10 Lowty Professional Suilding
350 St Peter St.
St, Pau�, MN 55107_
Qear Mr. 6each:
At Si�se Decembar � 0�' i+nerriam Park Community Council board meeting, it�e c�ur�cil voted to
apptove Ehe falto.ving mo4ion:
`7o re�uesYa �ublle fiearing on 8he praposetf CVS building, in cvncert widfi ifamldne-
A9idwa�and Snet/in,g-Hamlin� Community Counc6ls. iJposslble."
� Tha Couna� woutd 9fke to weleome GVS?o the neighborhood buf has concems about ihe �
' pmposed buildin�, design, such as fhe wail witttoui windows along University Avenue; the main
i� � entrance being in'the Dae9c facing a Iarge parking tat, and the iact yhaf at woutd be a ona-story
bui4ding. '€'t�25e desi9n elements 2ra out of ste¢ wiih Transit--Otiented-D2vetapcnet'it and ?,fierriam
Park's comrc�unity pfan.
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ftesidents in Mezr'ram Par3c and neighboring cotnm�»iiies havg spen! many houfs assisUng iri
craftfiy d�sign goals Po� this ar�a. 7he praposed �uifding Is not canslsteni wYth zhe
neigh6orhoad's gosls 4nr 1Jniversity Avenue.
A�SU61ic nearing wauld a11ow art opporh�nity for more residents to knaw what CVS is proposing.
We w71 be confac�ing ihe Namiine-Midway Coalitian and the Snelfing-Namline Coenmuniiy
Caunctl members to support a pub&c heatiatg raquest, 3hank you for your assis2aRCe.
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�+Ol� NO S(tbfY!
PfESidBt'tf
Msrriam Parit Cammunity Cauncil
Gc� D Gagne. HMC
Mneitese Detwiter, SHCC
8rian MeMahon, UniversiTy UNITED
Councilmember Jay eenanav, St Paut City Counra!
BriEn A1Yon, Riiomey
SJr. Jasnas Merti, MPCC
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DEC--'' ��'�3 i3:05 FROM:UNIVERSITY UNI-ED 551a41�2°3 �Q:28E4�99 P.c�S
Deo i7 a3 1�:4Sa SflPCC 85164H-5993 p.?
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December 17, 20D3
Ciey Councilmember Jay Benansv
O�ce of the City Cou�cii
Suite 310D CSty Hali
�S Wes14�' SffeeE �
St_ Paul, �.3N �S1U2
Dear Cauncilmember Seaanav,
On Thursday, I�kcember 1 i, 2003, che St_ Anthaaty Yazk Communiry Council unanimously
appraved ahe fo3lowing rc;svlution:
�er2as ties:gm �sndeliaes brYZ�t �ro�amac dx�raDagmenf amd se� af �9aca �3]
aiong Unisersity Avenue and its saca��itaes, tta�r�fore lae iY resaiweel ki�aY
St. A�#�oaay Park �omm�atity �aun� supports the redesi� � tl�e proposeti CVS
store ut Snel3iaeg and Univsasity ta rmmply w3th the I3niversily Ave�cue Deveiopmsnt
,Prfnciples.
The Cousmunity Covncil recommends impl�menting sirong urban design princ3gles that can
anchor Snelting and Univexsity as an acuactive �nd viabie locaeian for businesses zn� residents.
If yoii have any quaseious wiih regards an this res�lu#ion, Please Feel free to contact me at 55I-
fi49-5992.
B�st regards,
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Meli�sa !bl�athew� U
Exec�tive Director
C: Brain McMahon, t3niversity UNITEI) ,
Daue Gagne, Midway Coaiitioa
I3onna Dnunniond, PIac�ning and i?con�mic Development
Brain Alton, �CVS
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TO:
FROM:
RE:
November '1 S, 2003 jrev. 0'i-27-04}
Tcm Beach �
Velmeir Companies
University & Sneliing Avenues, St. Pauf, MN Development Proposai.
Comprehensive Pian
A review of the St. Paui Comprehensive ;'lan and others plans is as foliows:
Land Us� �hapter of the St. Paul Comprahensive Plan.
1.0 The purposes of the Land Usz F'lan are to encourage private investment in
the city . . .
Strategy 2. Commercial buiidings shouid be located along the sidewalk.
Strategy 3. [R]edeveiopment efforts over the ne� twenty years shouid focus on
five corridors ... jincluding] Universifij Avenue and the Midway ...
Neighborhood bus lines with high ievel of service wi0 be a focus for smaller
scafe, infiSi redeveVopment.
CO�VIME�IT: The proposed CVSlpharmacy stores meet the fioregoing
policy statements. The CVS/pharinacy is a neighborhood business which
serves residents in the area. !t is not big box retail, but is rather smaller
scale infiill redevelopment.
2.2 Purposz of the Land Use P{an ...
2. To encourage private investment.
More specific pu�poses are:
To promote a balance of land uses in the city to strengthen the city's tax base.
To encourage and assist real estate deve9opers to make investments in St. Paul
at a time wahen government subsidiss for urban reinvestment ere constrained.
3.5 Ten principles for city deveiopment
9. Provide a balanced networlc for movernent. A baianced network fior
movement supports travel by car, pubiic transportation, bicycie and foot. Rights-
of-way shou3d be dasigned to be shared, attractive, and safie for ail modes ofi
rsaov2ment. At present the automobiie +s given such high priority that other forms
of transporta#ion are often unattractive.
COMMENT: The CVS store has bsen designed to provide such a
balanced network for movement. The automobile parking is to the rear of
the bui{ding. The store wiii provide a bicycie rack. The �ntrance to the
store is convenient to those pedestrians who wii! be arriving at the store
ftom the residen#iai area to ihe north. The store entrance wil( be a snort
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walk �or thosa persons who rnay j�+ani to shop t}�ere whe are traveling or
]Vleiro j ransit. A bus sh cIIBP OPl �}3E ; ig�at oz way snau3d be instalied io
accomrncdate bus ridership.
5.2.2 At neighborhood commerciai centers, ihe City �viil give mere attentien to
the pedestrian realm and 4vilf implemert �esign guidelir.es for pedestrian
districts...
GOM�AENT: This saciion is not a�plicab}e. Des+gn gui�elines have noi
been adopted that apply to this site.
5.2.3 Ths design guidelines for pedestrian-oriented viilage
inciude the foliowing:
8uildings out ta the sidewaik
Parking 9ots to the side and rear
Parking iots screened from the sfreet
Human-scale lighfing
Rrchitecture ihat respects the neighborhood contexi
Windows io the sidewalk
centers should
COMMENT: The design o� the building as proposed includes ail of the
foregoing elemenis, even tt�ough �he desi�n guidelines do not exist and
there does not appear to be a definition of "pedestrian-ariented vilBage
centers"
5.6.1 !n pedestrian-oriented neigi�borhaod cammercial csnters...Parking lots
should be lacated at the side or rear of buildings and primary business entranc�s
should be oriented to the sidewalk.
COMMENT: The entrance is oriented to the sidewaik along Snelling
Avenue. The parking lot is to the side or rear. This objective is not
mandatory.
Appendix A:
Land Use TrencJs a�d Assumptions
6. Continued reliance on the automobile, but with a counter trend toward
welking, bicycles, and public transportation. Major re#ail, officz and industrial
sites must have good vehicular access and parking. In oidzr neighborhoods,
local retail can do well with smaller parking lots beside and behind commercial
buildings.
COMMENT: The store has been designed to meet th+s goa{ of good
vehicular access and parking.
94. Significant need io increase the ci#y tax base.
15. Need for workforce deveiopment and mare jobs.
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� COM�IENT: The CVS store will increase the tax base and create jo6s.
�ousing Plan of St. Paul Gompr�hensive P1an
Chapier 5 identifies potential housing development sites throughout the entire
city o# Si. Paui, boih scattered infiil sites and larger sites. ?he northwest corner
of Universiiy & Snelling Avenues is not identified as a site for fiousing.
Sumrraary and General Po4icy o# St. Pau! Comprehensive Plan
, Geographv and Environment
General Policy 16.
University Avenue CorridodMidway. Continued investment in the Midway
corridor wiil support its strong potential for business development as a readiiy
accessibfe area between the downtowns of Minneapolis and St. Pauf. University
Avenue shouid continue to be developed as both a transit corridor and a mixed
use business street, serving cifij and neighborhood needs. The Land Use and
Transportation chapters support:
• Redevelopment at key siies that are identified in the Land Use chapter,
• Higher densities of households and emp!oyment along the corridor that
• requirs and support be#ter transit,
• Redss'sgn and redevelopment to make the auto-orisnted regional shopping
area camfortable for pedestrians and to enhance storefront, pec�estriar�-
oriented comsnercia! csnters atong the avenue, and
• Estabiishment af the "ceniral corridor" {of which University is a spine) as the
top priority for the development of transitways, busways, andlor LRT in the
region.
COM(viENT: The muitimiilion dollar investment that CVS/pharmacy wiil make
in the interseciion at Universifij & Snelling wifl demonstrate a potential for
business development and spur further development. The neighborhood
nature ofi a drug store wili serve business, city and neighborhood needs.
Niuch has been writtsn about tY�e potential for further transit development,
whether busway os� LRT, on Unsversity Avenue. However, any such
developrnent is several years away and speculative. CVS is wiiling to build a
store r+ow which does increase the tax base, provide employment and
needed retai! development.
Econamic Ot�postunitv.
High prioriiies for S#. Pau( now are:
• To ensure that iand resources with potential #or business use are made
available and used to the+r maximum economic and community benefit;
. o To ensure a welcoming and supportive environment in the city for new �nd
existing businesses . . . .
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04-So�
COt�1i1�E�1T: The Gity in the Compre�ensive PPan has placec� a high p?
on �usiness dev�)apment. i he Ciry s�ould welcome #Y�is majcr
redevelopment af the site �rrhich has been under utilizad ;or rnany, many
years. The deveioper is ��villing to imrest severai millian d�llars into a
development vvi�hout any public assistance.
'�HE �t3LL(3�ltiVt3 i��Ai�tS ARE �t0� P�F2T U� T#�E C�MPREN�lVSSVE �LA�!
A / A � 9 F ' 2 �� E p , � + A MOS7 A[31ldSfl t � S i / S �� E pj PAR p T C3�'
i r�C C � 4 1 �ri c 9� 9 g ��V i ■ V Y���1""e�
�T3� / i'�f'�iSG i.+V1tlJi�GlaLiJ� �ld� !'1JL�i.�iYV�1'+ltT �V(YY(giGltl�J �f �L d
V
�RAFT Area Plan Sumrnary - Ur�iversiiy Avenue Transit-�r6entad
DeueSop�aeni Frameoneor�C: SiVE�L4NG A�1�3 L�XiNGT03V AREAS, 1� alAay
20�3.
Recorr�mendations - Sne1ling �3evelopment Concepts
The overail straiegies for the Snelling/University tntersection incfude:
s Intensifcation of commercia] uses
s Greating clearer patterns of movement for automabiles, pedes#rians and
bicycles.
COMMENT: We believe thai the proposed develapment #or a CVSlpharmacy
as submitted complies with these ove=aif strategies.
The northwest comer of Snelling and University is also availabie for new
devsiopmsnt. Corrimunifij goals for the new development include:
• Sigr�afurz building buift at the corner of a scale that supports the styie of the
area (2-3 stories at the sfresi, possibiy more if upper fevels are stepperi back
from adjacent streets);
• Parki�g lots better utilized and more aestheticaiiy pieasing along Sherburrae;
• t'ossibie inciusion of tne fumiture store focated along Snelling north of the
bank.
COMiVtENT: The proposed GVS store meets two of the three. "Signaiure
building" is a subjective concepi. The developer recognizes that difFerent
persons will have diifierent opinions as to whether the proposed store is a
siQnature building. However, everyone would acknowledge #ha# there has
never been a signaturs �uilding at ihis corner. The present proposai is a vast
improvement over what has been fhere for many, many years.
Blocks Setween Universitv and Sherburne
Communiiy Goais �
The following goals are intended for new �eveiopment beiween Sherburne ara
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� Universi"ry.
s Aii new development should continue �o support a vibrant residential and
commercial environment. New development should maintain if not increase
ad}'acen# property val�es.
• All new developm�nt must create a posiiive living environment for all
residents along Sherburne. Loading decics, trash bins, etc. shouid be visuaily
and audibly shielded firom the residents ecross the street.
. Ne�nr construction Feights shculd be limited as to not create significant
shadows on properties to fhe north. This is to insure sufficient sunlight for
melting snow and allowing gardens.
. New construction shouid provide ampie aff-street parking; due to the
presenca of numerous muiti-unit buildings parking is already limited on some
blocks.
• in cases where the a11ey may be removed or iurned to exit onto University or
Sherburne, the proposed new bui(ding requesting this change must
demonstrate suificient non-alley access to the parcel for its users.
• Each proposed development must be evaluated on its own individual merit.
COMMENT: These goals are somewhat inconsistent with those stated for
nevv development at Snelling & University, but are applicable as this
devefopment spans the entire dis#ance fram Sherburns to University. The
proposed CVS store meets a�i six of the community goals for any new
• development between Sherburne and Universiiy.
Univers A �'ransi Dev Framework: Snelling ancl
�esY'3iS�LoP1 C"3! £�J C��/ �� a3t. Q°dl3l /9§Dr9�� LoOJ.
2.4 Transit-Oriented Deveiopment
in summary, Transit-oriented development is focused on #wo ou#comes #or the
land immediateiy along the transit corridor:
+ Creating a physical environment that is friendly to transit users, pedestrians,
and automobiles.
• increasing the intensity of use around major transit stops thereby creating a
diversity of commerciai and residential space in a neighborhood. ,
GOMNlE�T: The developer beiieves ihat the design of ihe building oriented
tav✓ard the street with parking in back, a bus stop, bicycle racks, landscaping
and a pieasing design is friendly to ail users. Cer'tainly the design of the
Building increases the intensity ofi use around the transit stop from what is
presen#ly there.
8.1 General Streetscape Principles ... The 1999 Develapment Princ'sples remain
in effect as advisory to all new develoament. They are not adopted and enforced
as part ofi the City's Gomprehensive Plan because their creation and approval by
al! the partners was contingent on not being codified.
� 9. Recommendations
Overaii Goads
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vy-5o�
2. increase Jobs, �ax �as� and Ecanomie Developmen#
Snelling
The overall strate�ies for the Sne3lingil.�niversifij intersection include:
• intensi ication of commerciai uses
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• Creating c;earer pat#erns er movemen# for autornobiles, pedestrians, and
bicyc:es.
�otentia! HousSng Sites a�n �9rs7ve�saty Avenue: A R�gsort by University
Unatsd
COfutMEiVT: This report does not identiiy Universify and Sneiling as a
priority site for housing along the University Avenue corridor.
The report dces mention the northwest comer of University and Sneiling_
it r�erely mentions that there may be su#ficient land avai(a61e for a mixed
use devedopment incduding housing if additiona! properfy couid be
assembled, including the adjoining vacani or undsvelcped lots.
G�3�CLi�S1�N
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The proposed development is consistent with ihe Comprehensive Plan and the •
site pian should be approved.
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f�esi�vn �uizieline� a�r
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5.; .3 The C?ty, thrcu�h the Pubiic Werks Depanmeni, ,heuld cncourG�e
IJUC;iC IP.fi"?Siri,iCtUiE Ihdi prOt7;Gie5 SCYZ�YS a7iC� S1deGVd11C5 Ll7di dZe �edZS-
trian inendly and visuzLy appEallin' as impartanc co:;ipe^erts io tr�e
success oinei6hborhoods.
Lib,jecgi�.�� �,2 1l�ix�c3 �.��a� �s�sl�ax�c3 L�s� �ev��oprne�t
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5.2.1 In traditiona? nei�hberhoods, che �ity �,viii suppert comp�tib7e mixed z
us� within single buildinas and ir. separate buildings in ciose proximit}�
Mixed use reduces transportation Lime and ces�. Nacional surveys show
thai, on avera;e, ciiy residents drve only haif as mar.y miles per year zs
sub�rban dweilers, pr?marily because each irip is shorter in the city.
5.22 ' At nei�hborhood commerciat centers, the Ciry, ir. ccllaboration wifh
individual nei�hbarhcods and business districts, tiviil eive more attention
to the pedesirian reaim and wiil implement desi�n guidelines for pe�es-
trian districts; be�inning with « half-dozen prototype areas. (See Fi;ure 1
for candidate areas ior pedesman-oriented desi�n guidelines.) If t�esign
guidelines ior neiahborhood cammercial centers take the form of regtiia-
tions, they mi�ht work through tne City's site pian review process or the
, creation of desi�n districts. Any reg�;iatory process should have a fast-
track for pIans [hGt ciearty suppori the vitIage center concept. ilrban v:i-
tage design conceats can be promoted through public education and
nei;hborhood planning.
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t 5.2.3 : The desi�n guidelines far pedestrian-oriented village centers snouid �
include the following:
• Buildings out to the sidewaik
• Parking Iots te the side and rear oi buildinas, not in front
= Parking 2os screened from the s+rEet
• Human-scale lignting
• Arehitecture That respects the r�eighborhood context
= Windo�vs :o the sicewalk ,_J
5.2.4 � o promote the workabiiity of mixed iand uses, ii,e City wili �ise
ZOTl111P�, IICeR51I1� dl1Q 2i1VtTOTlIT1�11t21 Z2�llIdC10RS i0 PTEVEi1C aiid r[IiLI�dCE
Iznd use conilicts alon� boundaries between residential areas and com-
mercial or industrial areas.
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l'mm�rchanci+in nln,..
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�A:'�: C: ..dI2��Ci =c.i. �P. ��SEc?T: ',.'�SiaP., LO C�.^�_':�COt S�UL'�'c.:, i:.���h�ri ;.J SiiP.
rlaIl� :GY :;2i`i JUiiG;_^i�5.
�.�2 ��:c Ci%� �,4';'.. c::CCt•.Z�aE i'_"!Gl"c hOUSii:a „P,G �O}�5 LO :OCaic a1CT-la 7::6r�-
Sc:"ViCc bli5 TGli�cS (i�-�TiiP.UCc 'L'�,cdQ4Vd�'� QUI:I7� r'„Si� r�CUTS; 30-II"�.l:li:ic
}iFaC�Nc�IS iri i�";c C:i-Jcdi:j. 1'.^.:5 YcCC?i1M�ri�idi:OSl IS �!SCUS�cQ iri r
uZ:dIi 1R JeCT1CP. o.Q Oi ICIS 7�POtt.
�3�jec2ive �.6 3Ueigt�barhood f3usBr�ess �as�Cing
Lar�e parking lats erode the charm of traditional neighhorhoods thac �vere
deveioped in the streetcar er�. Surface parking should not be allooved to
wreck a neighborhood. Case studies by the Dzpartment of Planning and
Economic Development have found that any commercial area where more
land is devoted to parkina than to buildin�s �s a bad place for pedestrians.
A place like Grand Avenue and Lexington is pedestrian friendly: parking is
just barely adequate, it is dlstribuied around and behind buildings; it does
not overwhelm the pedestrian character of the street; and there are enough
buildings to deflne the public tealm on the sidewalk .
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5.6.I J In pedesirian-oriented neighborheod commercial centers, the City
wili support the provison ofjust enough commercia] parking in small
p�rking lots fittcd into available space. The City will limit the number of
curb cuts on commercial blocks. Parkin� lots should be located at the
side cr rear of buildings, and primary business entrances should be ori-
entect to the sidewaik. (Please refer to the related Sections 52.2 and
5.Z.3.} _
5.b2 As bus serv;ce impraves, the City will consicier reductions in ofi-
sireet parking requirements for businesses locat2d on bus imes with fre-
queni service (15-minute t�eadways durin� peak hours; 30-minute head-
ways during non-peak hours).
�bje��ive >.7 Paa3�s ars� L3�en Spa�e
Parks an� open space �rovide urban a�neni'ry and are part oi ihe pubiic
reui:r� '�ac shapes urb�n development. The Parks and Recreari3:� Pian i;
arot�er cr�a�ter of �he Cornprehensive Pian ar�d ii centair� City poi?cv and
ITidp� fpi II1P �&Ik Sj'Si8?1'l. Th� IY;d)Ci" STfdLBaicS Of If1@ Pdl"�S d'i�i R2CYeGL10Ii
P!an are to shape :he p� ;=sical charaaer ef che ctry, to buiid cor: mnn�t}
_ _ . . _' _ "_ ' _ - . , ._ . , _ ... ,u. _ _ I
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CSb��c�ae�� �.3 �7�9�es�i�y �v�r�u� Cc��r;eiar �
The Universiiy Av�nue Corndar Siudy was prepared by tiniversit�� UNI i ED in
i988. Since :hen ihe Mid��aay .viarke�piace rcdevelo��ent has :cstored ±he
Mi�way as the_city's �rimary regional shopping cer.tex. The Frogtown end of
Universiiy Avenue i:as witnessed the gro��h of asian businesses. i he west
end of Unive:sity �✓enue is being revitalized by the GVestga[e redevelepment
and t; e rehab�litztion of buildings near liniversiiy Gnd Raymond. The
��dway new has a strcna market for oi8ce space. Planning is undertvay in
:998 for improving bus =ervice on both I-94 and on tiniversity Avenue, fcr
beautifyir.g tini��e:sit;r Av,.nue, anci for more redeve?apmen; sites.
6.3. i F��u�e P shotivs :edcvelopmenT sites and �enera] land use policy iar
the Ur.iversity Avenue Corridor.
( 6.3.�. New urbar housin6, offices, retaii, and indusfrial development
' shouid all contrbute ±hrough density anG site desian to the ridership base
� for public transpot�a�on on the University A��enu., and I-94 bus routes.
Aiready, these reuies have the highest ridership ir. the TZVin Cieies. in 1997
Ramsey Co��nty designat�d the Nizdway (Univcrsitp Avemie) Corrd�t and
tne Rive�vie�v (VVesi Seventh) Corridor as the top priority corridors t"or �
pu�+alic transpertat�on improvement� in the E�st tblezro area.
6.3.� Future redevetopment pianr:in� Gnd efforts to redesign University
�venue itself should find ways to make the auto-oriented regio�al shop-
ping i"big box" retaii) work for pedestrians, �,+rho ate often bus tiders and
also to er,hance the storefront pedestrian-oriented commercial eenters
aiong the avenue.
ALo see 6.7._ on Ciry support for the �?idway regiona� shoppino area.
, Figure P
UnCVersi"ry Avenue
Develogsment Opportuni�Pies
�j � -_ k �_^ F � .
,_a�-.� _ r:�st 4 _ r n,w.3�. �r S; _�'
Oy-
�bjecti•,ra, P1eig�r�o�hood �;shencesnent
'
Consicie: transporation infi as p�r� o:
nei�hBOrnood physicaI iabric and as a physicai
v✓ay to c:eace commnnity, and oive delibe*ace
att�ntion to nei�nborhood character and the
need for community connections when desi�n-
in� transportatian improvements, such as trar�-
sit s�ops, pedestrian ways, bikeways, parking
Iots and faciliiies, bridges, signs, and Ii�htin�.
Desi�n of �ransportadon irnprovements is �moor-
tant because:
o it affects how peoole feel about their neighbor-
hoods and is rer"lected in pri��ate investment,
+ it can set Saint Paul apart by capiTalizing on
the special qualities of its neighborhoods, and
4 the sense of community is built at the
neiahborhood level, with physical design as u
critical component.
i
�o!'saies
38. The City shouSd incorporate in the principies recommended in Pohcv
13 (p. 10), streetscape Quidelmes �n�hich emphasize enhancement of the
ne;�hborhood environment, particula;ly its pedestrian qua;iry, in accor-
dance with its historical development patterns and current uses, and
which maintain and improve a feeling of persona] safety among users.
39. Thz City should require parkir,g lots to have a strona landscaped edge
aiong ±he street, and encoura�e landscaping within parking lots. The Ci�y
shov?d f,•nd ways to encourage or require improvement of exiscing park-
ing iots, as well as newly cor.structed lots. Landscaping should be aes-
thetically pleasin� and provide a sense oi pubiic safety
40, The City should require cor,struct;on of new parkino ramps to be com-
patible with the neighborhood.
•
4:. The Ciiy shouic co.mpiete i� re�ident;ai screet pavin� program, seitin�
nei�hbor;�ood priorities basec on cest efiectiveness and economic and
commanity� de've:op�cnt ard �ubiic saiet}� 6oais
�2 The Ciiy si-.o��1� use it� �an� ;;�v and deveiopment t�eQuiaiory po��vers
�` i0 TA1I120fCF mg� ;�r {�a,i��r ;Z��l'tGCiGP.� d71d Sia??1I1CdRC Ii p011105 d5 �
S$
�'t '
`...� � ° �Yf �`i� 3:J �' w-'�f� C�iY a�Salnt PCtLti
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central nei�hborhood places, wh�re appropriate. Lii:etn�ise, z.vhen L.ansit- �
� ways — tiusways or T�,�2T — are bt�i?i, the Ci[�� si��ould �NOrk wich piannin� l
� ' c �c r„ r ?� `* t ^r c c- �i �
( d:1C11:Tlple::1Z1'ii.IP�� a t0 B.iSt7.iC' fi.aL •'.!.@C ai8 G�°..S�:te.. �Q Sli�)�70Tt i
j human scaie, social iabr,"c and neighborhood identity. _____j
�_�
43. The Ciiy sheuld continue to ��vork wi;h cther �gencies to enhance the
design oi transponation imprevemens (stree+s, li�hting, bridges, par"xina
fac;Iities, transit she?ters, bike paths, waikways) in accerdance with com-
munity and nei�hborhoed objectives. Tl:e City shou?d cont?nue its prao-
tice of using a cammunity-inclusive de=ign proces= for major transporta-
tion projee:s.
44. The City supports customizing oi nei6hborhood circulator buses io
reflect thc identity oi the *�eighborhoods they serve.
45. The City should ensure thai fair and adequate capital, operatin�, and
maintenance fundin� is a condition oi approvin; above-standard design
and materials in public improvernents.
46. The City shouid continue to enhance its parkvray system throuah
appropriaze design and landscapin�, iimitati�ns on uses wiihin and adja-
cent to parkways to erisure compatibtiity and preserve aesiheiic charac-
ter, limita'tions on traffic speeds and vehicle access, and provis'ton of sep-
arate aedestrian and bixeways, where feasibie.
�bject9v�; �c�n��°rsic �i�are���r�s�re#
Preserve and strengther, accessibili�y to the re�ionaI transgortation
syste� and taroet ihe scale and t}�e of commercial and andustrial
�ebelopment Yo loca�ions with apgrapriate access ar:d visibil"aty, and
where [here is adequate carryin� capacity in the stree[ system. Make
system im�rovements in support af business devslopmenT and job cre-
ation.
It is imporant to link re�ional and locai iransportation ir.frastnzcture pian-
nin� with commercial and induscrial developmert because_
o access to markets, goods, and labor is essentiai ior Sair,t Paul to main-
iain and improve ics economic competitivene=s,
s specific redevelopmeni eifct�s arz most iikely to succeed �,vhen kcyed to
toda;�'s access neecs ard op�c^unit;es, �
A �CCa[1?lQ COP_iR2EYClci/�P.di:5I22�1 dCI'V1N �4�i't�Y2 7��1CR3� dC�P55 IS 600C�
�viil al�o asneral_ly mir,?mize c�nt�icfis wi�n se�siive ases, and
Com�rehensive t�Ian ,�' �5
iD Plar, Sufn�aa�- f2: Julj• 6. )
a2e r
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�. De�"E:OD L7c l'2CuIIC f&P_Cl �OL'C!'. Oi i=2 �i OpII1i1� CEIILE: iC CrE3ie Tt:� l.:�r��i rLT ��e� OI 70175 3IIC
CO�^lEYCi3_ '�C.^.T:i - pCSSibLE nLC SSE.^.�LEIl E::c T�a1GPff1 CO.TS_ CCutCT. Cp2C_ L1E �03i :S
CO clljJDO1T CTc2�0II O: LT_2IlS:i g3*2�C 3_^.:.� %::Ib� llCCC�CCE. :� c �^aTZ�E :� P.Oi _�u� �12, E%bIOT� ll1E
co :cept; suci? zs rLOSe _zco-�eaded ��- :Le co�m�:n�-:r: t?ae \-Ld�vat� :nzsiex plan ioz an
:.^tensificanor_ oi use. These i±lclude�' o:fices, c:L*ucs '_ �o�-,e cir_emas u.d ot!;er xerail
r _
:ti:ncuon_s. Aesider.aai use; axe r,o: prereued he=e az ��-.:s ti.�e due :o d�e comsne*ciai na^:re and
isoiaaon causea b�- :he intexstzce, �neiLag, anc �nir�zs:tr. rt;;sidernai nses ma�. ue appxopiia:e nezr
c�� aiong Lr,ii=eisit�-:a �ne tamie.
3. Cxeate a srsong cisual ele.*nent zt Srelling and St. _�athont thaL funcrioas as a signatuse gatemav
to che �Iidtva5� azea. 1`he sa�zcrare shoUld be of scale and qualit� that matches the axea.
4. �Iamtaui the majoi commercial usess in the centei and zdd od7eis as possiUie. Specificall}', as the
ma.het changes, seek io capture dae vahie of L"niversity and Snelling A�renue fsontages by increasing
the mtensirn of use along the a�- enues, balancing the need to inainta;n the calue of propeicq deepex
in the block.
5. Esplore moeing easncatd ehe major tiansit stop froin Snelling. Tlus piaces the stop inoxe
cenually �vithm the coinmescial district and allec±ates potenraal txaffic congeston issues ac Snelling.
E�plare cxeating a hnb to sei��e this azea.
6. Snconxage adapttve xeuse of builc7ings that mainta±n the lusroxic and eclectic chaxactei oi tlie
area.
The task foice also belie��es that it m;�y Ue appiopiiaYe to esploxe the feasii�ilit} of sttengthening the
iegional shopping center becween Snelling ar,d Syndic�ie ahaz inciudes nfidway Center, itiIidwap
Nlasketplace and the Target Store. Wich coofdinazed pIanning and design, the chasacter of the area
inight be ,ubstanriallp irnpxoved foL sl�oppezs and die surionnding comir�uni�>. St� parl;ing
and unpxoved txansit sercice could fsee land for sigiuficanx new commesaal uses and employment.
Housing inay be appxop�:iate in some areas as iutensincation occuss in the- axea. This
ezploiation/concept was beyond the scope of the study.
'' The no�thwest coxaies of Snellin� and Ilnivexsirv is aiso avulable ior nem dezrelopinent.
Co:iununiry goals roi tLe new det-eloprnent inchide:
° Slgnatuxe bu�tding buili at the coinex of a scale that supparts the st} le of the area (23 stosies
aL uie stxeec, pess:olp moie if uppe; iet-els are stepped back fiom adjacent streets);
' Parl�ing lots betcex urilized c.nd moxe aesThetrcally pleasizig along S1,erbuine;
• Pes;ible inciusion o: rhe fiuniti:ie stoxe located alerg Snel!ing north of the t�ank.
The northeast binck �i Sneit?ngj Unisrezsitu, bouncied on the nosth Ul- Sherbuiae and the easL by
_lsbtuy, :ncludes a �-asieTs� of xetail, er.teztainsr.ent aad office uses dia� are m need of moTe and bettei
organized paxking. Consolidarng u�e �ur ace lots on SLerbuzne iz.co a single shaied paskuig 1ot i;
proposed.
• �re southw�st ;loc�s of Sisellia�/Univessitv, bec�vee� i:ni� and S�. �nLhonp, ac die u.�e �f
d:e srudv nad 'te=.:-es r.ocenuz? _edereiopmenc ;;ies. �1t such time tha� iedeaelopment oppostumnes
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' Development Prfnci,aa/s ior Univars;'ry.�venue (9998) includes design principles for University .
� Avenue and "neigh�enc�od nodes":
Buiidings should be orienteC to Universrry�venue
� - Buildings s'r,ould have attracfive pedes"rrian connecfions fo the avar,ue
- Buildin�s shouid b2 6ui(t u� to fhe sidewaik with canapies arad oiher facade articu/ation
� - Mulfi-siGry buildinos are sirongly encouraasd
�- Buildings need to have wrndows or,fo fhe s'rrast. (At least 40% of facade)
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The site viewed from across Uriversi'ry Avenue. Tne smatt bank I�uiidi�g in
the foregrcund and the furniture stare in ±he back would be demafished.
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Buitdings on The north side of Untversity Avenue to ihe west of the site. (Sank
building cn the site is at the right of the picture.)
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S�ruce Tree Center on thE southwest comar af University and Sneliing.
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Buildings on the northeast corner of University and Snefting.
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�gEc`N SPACE MUST EQUAL 70°o OF PAVEME��17.
�pVE.'v1ENT AREA = 27,333 SF
;REEi! SPAC� = 3,978 SF
;,97�,333) * t00 = 15.5% GREc`N Si'ACE
�(�E TRE� R�Q{�;RE7 FOR F/ERY 30 Fc� Of ^rL;BLiC SftE= � FROtti'7AGE.
pRK1�1G LOT OVER 50 C?.RS MUSi HAVE PLANTED 15LANQ WlTH SNADE TREES.
LL P�ANTEB AREAS NIUST SE A7 LEASi FOUR F�=i W WIDTH.
�YiOV}NG CR PlRNTING TREES 1N THE BOI:LEVARD REQLiR�S A PERMl7 Fi20M 7HE CtTY FORfSTE�2.
iERE i5 Np CI �=OR TH(S PEi�lviCf - G1LL 657-632-�729.
�DSG�PE REQUiREMEN �5:
S+iERSURfVE AVEiVUE
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HAMLINE MIDWA� CQALITTON
Hamline Park Buitding � 1564 LaEond Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55104 • 651-646-1956 • Faa 65t-641-6ia3 • districtl t�gofastnet
April i, 2004
Mr. Tom Beach
LILP/Site Plan Revi.ew
City of St. Paul
S10 Lowry Professiona2 Build'utg
350 St. Peter Street
Sf. Paul, MN 55102
Dear Tom,
The Hamline Midway CoaJition Soard of Directors met lasfi night in a special session co
consider the final proposals fzom Velmeir Development for the C'vS Phaxmacy site at
the norfltwest comer of University and Snelli�. The HMC Board voted unanunously to
oppose the vacating of the pubiic alley located withist the proposed CVS Pharmacy site.
The HMC Board also voted unanimously to support Univezsity UNITED's appeal to the
St. Paul City Council to oveitxuzt the the Plai,ning Commission's approval o! i�his site
plan.
The H114C Boazd memUers, afEer lor�, consideration, several community meetin�s and
various staff meetings wxth CVS representaiives Uelieves that the proposed CVS
Phannacy site plan does noF meet i:he bzoader goals zepzesented by the City of St. Paul
Comprehensive Plan nor flte specific objeelives of various community plans for this
critically importanf 'vlterseciion, includ'uti� our own Revitalization Plan for North Snelling
Avenue, completed in flte fall, 2001. In addition the CVS Pharmacy proposal conflicts
with the Snelling Crossings conceptual plan developed by Midway Chamber of
Commerce several yeazs ago. The "prototypical" desi� offered by CVS Pharmacy is not
suiEable for that siie, does not con{xibute to iransit oriented development goals, will add
ro flze public safety pzoblems of flte nttersection and v,rill likely result in t�arious traffic
�roblems witivn fl1e Hamline Midway nei�hUorhood.
The City of St. Paul and ifs neighUozhoods deserve Uetter. We kxtiow CVS Pharmacy can
and does Uuild more appropriate retail buildings elsewhere. We would expect the same
lrom CVS at this location.
Sincerely,
�� �<
David W. Gagne
Economic Development Coordinator
Iiamlune Midway Coalition
Dedacaaec! to maknzg tbe Kamlir�e Madway neagbborbood a beGler place !o live and wosk.
Sorc mX�+'L� 1P%ymisANmumx.
1'IrI.L DI'9r1. - OO1.l. 1/ . • v+i i . on �c
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SNELL!1�IG �AMLIi�IE COMMUNITY COUNCiL
1573 SELSY AVENUE, SUITE 33 1' SAINT PAUL, MINNES07A 5510�
BoArzc or D�FECTOR6
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AIi.TI.NC�n M�VC•C VLLTN
pnvia Mon-eH �
Znc:ln MOrv:ON
pr.nr.r Oncr.crn-COno
April 7, 2Utk}
Cvuncilmember Dehbie Montgomery
Ofiicc of Yhc C�ry Council
15 Wetii Kello�g Blvd.
Suitc 310A Ciry Nall
St. Paul, MN S,5 402
Rl:: Public Hearing for(:VS Pharmacy a[ Sncllin� dnd'Jniversity
I)car Counciimcmber Ma�tgomery:
At (he Acccrnber 4, 2003 meering oFthe Snetl�ng ifamline (.ommunity Council, the
Eoard ot Uircc�ors votcd [u opposc thc sitc plan dcsign for thc CVS Pha�macy at 1581
Univers4ty nvemye. Since Dacember, Cv$ has tcdesigncd their site piln to
incorporatc svmc of Ihc sn,.ggcstions mndc by thc I�,cal con�muni[y and in T'chruary
20U4, Ihe Pi .nir.ing Z:pmmis5i0n .�ppmv<�tl fhc C�VS �itc plap.
Thc Snellin,lTamline Community C;ouncil agrccs wi�h Univcrsity United that two
importxnt impAO�ements stiil need to be maJe to the site plan.
��=_��, ��a�„� 1. An cntrancc pn Univcrsiry Avcnnc rhar is convcnicnt for Iransit ridczs and
�.,.,�� - 4.. pcdcsU•ianti
K�.• ����^�r 2. Transparc�nt � lass :n Ihc cyc Ic;val Gcin�; Univc;rsiiy �vcnuc for Ihe stdcty of
'�M °�^�Y�° ihosc insidc �nd ouitidc ihc sttirc
LIN�I�nv �'.����yA11
i he Snelting TTamline f.onununiiy Council is cuncerncd ihat ihc cur�ent plan does not
'''''' confo��m lo thc City's Comprehen�ive PI<tn, the City's Transportation Plan, the
';`"„"` o"' rcccmly adop�cd Snelling�I,c;xineton TQD Piannin� S[udy, or the Univ�rsity Avenae
nHrc.•e-� oe�w•�.y C
Davelopmenl a"rinciples. We enct>m�age thc C:ity (:nmuil to crnisicler The transit-
uriented natuYC of thc Snelling and Jniversity corner. We hope the members of the
City Council will scc thc valuc of providing an cntrnncc tci nc� storc and transp;,n:n�
windows on iJniversiry Avenuc. Yo�h i�nprovcmams wiil hetp penerate the orb�m
radier tha�i suhurhan fecl tlrc tornei descrvc..
Vcry truly yc
�
Travic Snidcr
Boan1 I'��esident
cc. Councilncmbcr.Fayl3cnanav.Ward4
Nr. C3rian McMahon, University United
Mr. Brian Altoo, CV$ Aitoxncy
WWW.SNELLHAM.ORG
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CVS Pharmacy 158T Univer:
Tom , Beach@ci. stpaul. m n. us
'n: Nfidway Books <midwayb2@infioniine.net>
jeck CVS Pharmacy 1581 UniversityAve
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name is Tom Stransky. I own Midway Bookshop which is directly across from the propased
igstore i am totally in favor or the new CVS srore. This will be a great addition to our
ghborhood and to a corner which has been neglected for years.
spite what some so called "represenlatives" of our community say, ihis is an auto oriented
•�e}"
amount of "social engineering�� by LRT fanatics is going to alter this Therefore, a new
�iness neetls a parking lot to accomodate the majority of its custom ers who will (like it o� not)
re to the proposed store, In regard to the lack of a door on University Avenue, as a business
ier of 24 years on the corner of University and Sneliing Ave., I have had more than my share
:leaning up garbage after many of the transit users; repairing broken windows that have p�en
ced in by some transit users, cieaning up the graffiti left by transit users. I have been asked rf I
tted to buy drugs, been propositioned, customers have been harrassed, our doorways have
�r1 blocked by intimidating thugs
' Vansit stop'has been used as a place for criminals to loiter for hours.
i can not bfame CVS for not wanting a door by the "transif' stop
3Se don't dnve another potentiai business from the Midway area.
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MSCLAY
ROBER7 M. NLCLAY
BRIAN D. ALTON'
'Also Licensed in Wisconsin
Pefer Warner
O�ce of the City Attorney
City of Saint Paul
400 City Hall
Saint Paul, MN 55105
ATfORNEYS
Aprii 5, 2004
951 GRANDAVENUE
ST. PNJi� MN 55105
FAX 651290-2502
e-mail: IawOmctlay-atton.cam
651/290-0301
BY FACSIMILE AHD U,S. MAIL
RE: Site Plan Application at 1581 University Avenue
File Number: 03 383303
Dear Ulr. War�e�:
Our o�ce represents Velmeir Companies, ffie applicant in the above referenced
site plan review application.
The Site Plan was approved by the Planning Commission at its meeting on
February 27, 2004. Thereafter, an organization called University United filed an
appeai of the approval on March 15, 2004.
In an email on March 18, 2004, to Tom Beach of the Department of License,
Inspections and Environmental Protection. I advised Mr. Beach that the appeai
should not be accepfed by the City because the appeai was not timely within the
requirements of Minn. Stat. § 15.99.
I also raised the issue that the appellant is not an affected party and lacks
standing to appeat. Further, ihat the appeal does not sfate adequate grounds for
the appeal as required by City Ordinance.
Mr. Beach responded by email on March 18, 2004, stating that the City had
accepted the appeai and that a hearing before the Councii had been scheduled
for April 7, 2004.
The �ity is tirithout jurisdicticn to hear the appeal. The appeai was filed after !he
time limitation of Minn. Stat. § 15.99, as extended. The appeai shouid not have
been accepted by the City and no hearing should be held. The law, with respect
to the sixty day rule, is clear. The approval is finai. The applicant objects to any
further action by the City on this application. The applicanf wil! be damaged if
further action is taken.
ry truly yours,
rian . Alton
BDA/css
ec: Council President Bostrom
Counci{member Benanav
Alian Torstenson, PED
HLI UN , P.L.LP.