06-19-2003 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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La Porte Golf Community • SCU03-002 . August 27, 2003 Page 2 of 6 Analysis: Section 106-659 of the Code of Ordinances establishes the following criteria for review of development projects within a PUD zoning district: • Uses -Review of the City's Land Use Plan indicates this area was envisioned as developing as low density residential with a few areas for commercial use. The proposed project is primarily as low density residential (approximately 104 acres). In .addition, the multi-family development section consists of 15 acres and a 1.5 acre tract is reserved for commercial development. The proposed high-density residential use is to be located at the northeast corner of McCabe Road and State Highway 146. The multi-family development should not be detrimental to the use and enjoyment of surrounding properties. During review of . the site plan, staff and the Commission should look for sufficient open space, adequate parking, and a good mix of recreational amenities. With regards to the 1.5 acre tract, the proposed commercial corner is an ideal location for a neighborhood commercial type activity. The distribution of the remaining acreage to other uses is the following: Parks-4.0297 ac., landscaping-3.5864 ac., and detention-37.889 acres. (The Homeowners Association will be responsible for the maintenance of park facilities.) • . Streets, Access, & Layout =State Highway 146, Wharton Weems Blvd., and McCabe Road provide limited access to the site. Along SH 146 traveling north, TXDOT is negotiating with property owners to secure right turn lanes at Wharton ~ Weems and McCabe Road. These :lanes should help prevent traffic dela~s. Staffrecommends an extension of 8 Street to~provide needed access for emergency vehicles and provide better access for the residents. During the platting process, ~ consideration should be given to traffic controls along 8~ Street and also at the subdivision access, points that intersect with Wharton Weems Blvd. and McCabe Road. The Commission is • encouraged to ask the developer to~ participate in the signal placement and enhancement of 8a' Street and Fairmont Parkway intersection. In addition, various techniques should be applied to minimize the impact of trnffic on this neighborhood. These techniques should include either six- footberms or sound walls with at least 30' wide planting strips of heavy shrubbery. This would reduce noise levels and provide for additional sound deadening for the subdivision. The developer should redesign the current~layout to ensure that lots do not back. onto 8~' Street. In a previous sketch plan, the developer provided a layout with cul-de-sacs. • Topography -this area is relatively flat and stable and should not be an obstacle to this type of development. • Density -staff utilized the Land Use Plan as a guide. With the designated land use as low density residential and applying a