08-17 CBD Height text amendment - Laserfiche WebLink

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Staff Report 2/9/2017 low- density concept was being championed by the 10 stakeholder groups that participated in the planning process. The plan emphasized the use of low to mid -rise buildings. This was a reaffirmation of the 60' height limit for the CBD District east of the St. Joseph River. Height Adjustments — Two variances were approved by the ABZA, one in 2013 for the Cascade project to 76' and one in 2015 for East Bank Flats (Sycamore and Colfax) for 70' The mechanical portions of the buildings were permitted to extend up to 90' and 78' respectively, but only to the extent necessary and shown on the plans. Both of these projects are located on the Island. These projects were granted approvals to exceed the 60' maximum height limit, but well below the proposed 150' maximum height limit. The threshold for mid -rise buildings is generally considered to be 75'. Recommendation: Based on information available prior to the public hearing, the staff recommends that the petition be sent to the Common Council with an unfavorable recommendation. Analysis: The proposed maximum height limit change for the CBD District east of the St. Joseph River is contrary to the place- building concepts adopted by the Zoning Ordinance, the East Bank Plan and the height adjustments approved by the Area Board of Zoning Appeals. The appropriate and responsible path in seeking such a dramatic change to the height requirements is to undertake a well - established public process to amend the East Bank Plan, and to let that suggest the best course of action. APC 4 2812 -17 Page 2 of 2