HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-19-12 Regular, Public Hearing and Workshop Meeting of the Planning and Zoning CommissionI/
City of La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission Agenda
Notice is hereby given of a Regular Meeting, Public Hearing and Workshop of the La Porte Planning
and Zoning Commission to be held on January 19, 2012, at 6:00 P.M. at City Hall Council Chambers,
604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas, regarding the items of business according to the agenda
listed below:
1. Call to order
2. Consider approval of November 17, 2011, meeting minutes
3. Open Public Hearing to receive public input on Special Conditional Use Permit #11-91000007,
which has been requested by Billy Coleman of ACT Independent Turbo Services, Inc., on
behalf of PPG Inc., property owner for the property described as Pt. TRS 1, 2A, 2, 4, 4A, and
23D, Bayport U /R, Section 1, Richard Pearsall Survey, Abstract No. 625, La Porte, Harris
County, Texas. The applicant seeks approval of a permit for establishing a turbo machinery
repair services facility to be located along Bay Area Boulevard near Spencer Highway within
Planned Unit Development (PUD) district.
A. Staff Presentation
B. Proponents
C. Opponents
D. Proponents Rebuttal
4. Close Public Hearing
5. Consider recommendation to City Council regarding Special Conditional Use Permit Request
#11- 91000007.
6. Open Workshop to discuss proposed regulations on group care facilities (a /k/a group homes,
community homes, residential personal care homes, living centers and assisted living centers)
housing three (3) persons or less.
7. La Porte Comprehensive Plan Update
A. Overview of Chapter 4, Community Mobility & Draft Thoroughfare Plan
• Overview presentation
• Discussion and comment
B. Preview of Chapter 5, Economic Development and Chapter 6, Implementation
8. Administrative Reports
9. Commission Comments on matters appearing on agenda or inquiry of staff regarding specific
factual information or existing policy
10. Adjourn
A quorum of City Council members may be present and participate in discussions during this meeting; however,
no action will be taken by Council.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of La Porte will provide for reasonable
accommodations for persons attending public meetings. To better serve attendees, requests should be received
24 hours prior to the meetings. Please contact Patrice Fogarty, City Secretary, at 281.470.5019.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that a copy of the January 19, 2012, agenda of items to be considered by the Planning and
Zoning Commission was posted on the City Hall bulletin board on the day of 1 2012.
Title:
Planning and Zoning Commission
Minutes of November 17, 2011
Members Present Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, Doretta Finch, and Helen
LaCour.
Members Absent Phillip Hoot, Les Bird, and Lou Ann Martin
City Staff Present Assistant City Manager, Traci Leach; Planning Director, Tim Tietjens; City
Planner, Masood Malik; City Attorney, Knox Askins; Planning Assistant, Shannon
Green; Chief Building Official, Debbie Wilmore;
1. Call to order
Meeting called to order by Chairman Hal Lawler at 6:05p.m.
2. Elect a Vice - Chairperson
Motion by Helen LaCour to elect Danny Earp as Vice- Chairman of the Planning & Zoning
Commission. Second by Doretta Finch. Motion carried.
Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, Doretta Finch, and Helen
LaCour.
Nays: None
Abstain: None
3. Consider approval of October 20, 2011, meeting minutes.
Motion by Richard Warren to approve the minutes of October 20, 2011. Second by Mark Follis.
Motion carried.
Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, Doretta Finch, and Helen
LaCour.
Nays: None
Abstain: None
#. Open a Public Hearing to receive public input on Special Conditional Use Permit #11-
91000006, amending Special Conditional Use Permit #SCUO3 -001 for the Port of Houston
Authority's Truck Pre -Check Facility located at 600 E. Barbour's Cut Boulevard. The Port
of Houston Authority seeks amendments to existing Special Conditional Use Permit
#SCUO3 -001 for completion of said project within the Planned Unit Development (PUD)
district.
Masood Malik, City Planner, informed the Commission the applicant requested staff to withdraw
the Public Hearing request.
The Commission withdrew the item.
5. Close Public Hearing.
No public hearing was held.
6. Consider recommendation to City Council regarding Special Conditional Use Permit
Request #11- 91000006 (amending Special Conditional Use Permit #SCUO3 -001).
The item was withdrawn.
7. Open a Public Hearing to receive public input regarding proposed regulations on Group
Care Facilities (a/k/a group homes, community homes, residential personal care homes,
living centers and assisted living centers).
Chairman Hal Lawler opened the public hearing at 6:08 pm.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Minutes of November 17, 2011
Page 2 of 3
A. Staff Presentation
Debbie Wilmore, Chief Building Official, provided the Commission with staff's report by
recapping the October 20, 2011 workshop information and discussions. In addition, as
directed by the Commission, staff completed their review of the listed establishments
under SIC Code #8361 and incorporated their comments in the packet.
Ms. Wilmore also reminded the Commission that currently under State and Federal laws,
group homes are considered "protected" and cannot be excluded in residential zones.
Existing city regulations prohibit "group homes" so these regulations need to be updated
to prevent conflict with State and Federal laws. The Commission has the opportunity to
recommend conditions or criteria as part of the ordinance update.
Doretta Finch asked staff to change 106 -1. Definitions to read "Mentally Handicapped"
instead of "Mentally Retarded ".
B. Proponents
1. La Porte property owner, Jessie San Miguel, spoke against Group Care Facilities
in residential zones.
C. Opponents
1. Charlotte Boudreaux of 605 S 4 Street, spoke against Group Care Facilities
being permitted in residential zones.
2. Monica Boudreaux of 605 S 4 Street, spoke against Group Care Facilities being
permitted in residential zones.
3. Mike Shannahan of 200 S Virginia, spoke against Group Care Facilities being
permitted in residential zones. Mr. Shannahan asked the Commission to table
the item until due diligence is made.
4. Chuck Rosa of 812 S Virginia, spoke in favor of Group Care Facilities in
residential zones. Mr. Rosa was in favor of no sign in the residential zones, but
was against city staff having authority to govern inspection of the Facilities.
5. Jane Rosa of 812 S Virginia, spoke in favor of Group Care Facilities in residential
zones.
D. Proponents Rebuttal
There were none.
Chairman Hal Lawler closed the public hearing at 7:28pm
8. Consider Recommendation to City Council regarding amendments to Chapter 106 "Zoning"
of the Code of Ordinances, for the purpose of enacting regulations on Group Care
Facilities.
Motion by Helen LaCour to table proposed regulations on Group Care Facilities (a /k/a group
homes, community homes, residential personal care homes, living centers and assisted living
centers) until January 19, 2012, Planning and Zoning Meeting. Second by Mark Follis. Motion
carried.
Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, Doretta Finch, and Helen
LaCour.
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Chairman Hal Lawler called for 10 min break at 8:OOpm.
Chairman Hal Lawler called the meeting back in session at 8:12pm.
9. La Porte Comprehensive Plan Update
Planning and Zoning Commission
Minutes of November 17, 2011
Page 3 of 3
The Commission held a round table discussion and reviewed the draft Future Land Use Plan.
Bret Keast, of Kendig Keast, explained the Future Land Use Plan based on formed based codes
and character districts, including rural, auto urban residential, suburban village, auto urban
commercial, urban downtown, business park, auto urban industrial, and public/institutional.
Commissioners asked several questions and asked to view an overlay of existing and future land
uses. Corrections were noted. Commission members suggested organizing a subcommittee to
review the Future Land Use Plan thoroughly and make recommendations.
City Planner Masood Malik provided background information on Chapter 2, Land Use and
Character, which was reviewed by the Commission during the previous meeting, followed by a
land use exercise. On October 24, City Council received a Comprehensive Plan update and
briefing by the consultant. Chapter 3, Infrastructure & Growth Capacity, delivered October 19,
2011, was distributed to other City Departments for review. Police, Fire & EMS, Public Works,
and Engineering Division provided comments, which were reported to the consultant for changes
shown in strike out and underline.
Matt Bucchin, of Kendig Keast, gave a power point presentation of Chapter 3 outlining focus area,
goals, actions, and initiatives. Chapter 3 (Infrastructure & Growth Capacity including Public
Safety) is a consolidation of three previous plan chapters (Utilities Infrastructure, Community
Facilities & Services, and Public Safety).
10. Administrative Reports
There were no Administrative Reports.
11. Commission Comments on matters appearing on agenda or inquiry of staff regarding
specific factual information of existing policy.
There were no Commission Comments.
12. Adjourn
Motion to adjourn by Richard Warren. Second by Helen LaCour. The motion carried. The
meeting adjourned at 9:41.m.
Ayes: Hal Lawler, Danny Earp, Richard Warren, Mark Follis, Doretta Finch, and Helen
LaCour.
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Submitted by,
Shannon Green
Planning Assistant
Approved on this day of ' 2012.
Hal Lawler
Chairman Planning and Zoning Commission
(ACT Independent Turbo Services)
A.
Staff R
B
A Y
Map
C.
y�
ACT Independent Turbo Services
Staff Report January 19, 2012
Special Conditional Use Permit 9 11- 91000007
e estcd 1 : Billy Coleman c/o ACT Independent Turbo Services, Inc., on behalf of PPG
Industries, Inc. (Property Owner)
Requested for Turbo Machinery Repair Services facility at the southwest corner of Bay
Area Boulevard and Spencer Highway.
Kc al I)cscrir�ti�s : =44 acres, Pt. 'IRS 1, 2A, 2, 4, 4A, & TR 23D Bayport U/R, Section 1,
Richard Pearsall Survey, Abstract No.625, La Porte, Harris County, Texas.
Present Z u u Planned Unit Development (PUD)
Land Use Plan Mid to high Density Residential Uses
Back d : The subject properly (approx. 234 acres) is owned by PPG Industries, Inc.
The tract in question is located neap: an intersection of Spencer Highway
and Bay Area Boulevard. The said property is surrounded by General
Conunercial (GQ use district to the north along Spencer Highway Bay Area
Boulevard to the east, undeveloped tracts to west and south along Bay Area
Boulevard.
The sketch plan shows that the applicant seeps to develop an industrial
complex with three turbo service warehouses, shops, offices, and an
administration bLUlding. Either sides across a pipeline easement running
through the property will be incorporated into landscaping and
detention /retention facilities along Bay Area Boulevard. An entrance to the
proposed complex is shown along southbound Bay Area Boulevard.
Analysis Staff reviewed this request using the Code of Ordinances Sections 146 -216,
146 -217 (pertains to SCUP), all applicable elements of the La Porte
Comprehensive Plan, Development Ordinance, and Code of Ordinances
(Chapter 146) as a guide. Considerations were given to the following issues:
* Character of the surrounding and adjacent properties,
Existing, use of nearby properties, and the extent to which a land use
classification would be in harmony with such existing uses or the
anticipated use of the properties;
Suitability of the property for the uses to which would be permissible,
considering density, access and circulation, adequacy of public facilities
and services, and other considerations;
Extent to which the designated use of the property would harm the value
of adjacent land uses;
a
Special Conditional Use Permit
/ACT Turbo services
Page 2 oF4
Extent to which the proposed use designation would adversely affect the
capacity or safety of that portion of road network influenced by the uses
* Extent to which the proposed use designation would permit excessive
air, water or noise pollution, or other environmental harm on adjacent
land use designations; and,
* The gain, if any, to the public health, safety, and welfare due to the
existence of the land use designation.
In addition, Staff reviewed the following Comprehensive flan elements:
Land Use, Thoroughfare System, Pedestrian Connectivity, Utility
Infrastructure, Drainage, and Residential Development. The specific issues
considered are as follows:
Land Use -- Review of the City's Laird Use Flan shows the subject tract
developing as mid to high density residential uses. In review of this proposal
it is important to consider the goals, objectives and policies of the
Comprehensive flan, Land Use Plan, any identified enviroruzlental
concerns, County and State requirements.
While the applicant doesn't specifically list any Comprehensive flan goals
and policies by element, growth of business is cited as expressing the ones
felt most applicable to this proposal on the Special conditional use permit
application. Most can be found within the Land Use element section of the
Comprehensive Plan. There are many other goals and policies that could be
attached to this type of proposal such as for design, economic development,
transportation, etc., all of which would describe how it fits into the public
realm while safeguarding them from competing land uses.
The proposal is inconsistent with the Land Use flan. As the intent of the
Comprehensive Flan and Land Use Plan are to support the diversity of
housing, increase the variety of housing types and provide the opportunity
for detached single - family dwelling units in the vicinity of existing
neighborhoods.
Transportation do — The adjacent roadways in the area will be adversely
affected by the proposed activity, if the proposed conditions are adhered to.
Access to the property will be provided via southbound. Bay Area
Boulevard. Currently, Bay Area Boulevard is not a designated truck route.
Traffic Anal The proposed development will be located near: the
intersection of Bay Area Boulevard and 'Spencer Highway.. In addition, Bay
Area Boulevard is not a truck route and will have significant impact on the
traffic movement near an intersection at Spencer Highway.
Special Conditional Use Permit
ACT Turbo Services
Page 3 of 4
The site is situated near: the major intersection off Spencer highway where
trucks are exiting a relatively short distance to access from Bay Area
Boulevard. Generally, trucks will be turning left at the intersection. Given
the two proposed driveways as shown in the sketch, the ingress and egress of
trucks from Bay Area Boulevard would have a profound impact on the flow
of traffic en route from Spencer Highway to Fainn Parkway. Existing
roadway has two lanes and could result in congestion.
Utilities dilater and Sanitary Sewer services are available to this site. A 1.2 "
waterline is located to the east of Bay Area Boulevard. While, 42" trunk
sewer main runs north -south along west of Bay Area Boulevard. Possible
utility lines extension, bore and jack (if permitted) will be the sole
responsibility of the developer.
Drainage This project would add a significant amount of stones runoff due
to an increase in impervious cover (pavement, driveways), Particular
attention must be paid to the impacts of storwater runoff effects on the
drainage corridor along Bay Area Boulevard. Also, unchecked runoff would
have a negative impact on the southbound lanes of Bay Area Boulevard near
Spencer highway.
1. The proposal does not support the provisions of the Land Use Plan
and codes..
2. The proposal is inconsistent with the Comprehensive flan
designation and goals, objectives and policies for the property.
3. The site area is not suitable for proposed development considering
the physical characteristics of the property, including but not limited
to size, shape, location, topography, soils, slope, drainage
characteristics, an existence of ground or surface water.
4. The proposal will have a significant adverse impact on the
environment or the surrounding properties considering the design
and intensity of the proposed use.
5. In addition, public use and interests will not be served by approval of
this proposal.
Based on the above analysis, staff recommends disapproval of the Special
Conditional Use Permit #11- 91000007.
Special Conditional Use Per €»it
ACT Turbo Services
Page 4 of 4
Options available to the Commission area
Recommend to Council denial of this SCUP.
Recommend to Council approval of this SCUP after subsequent
evaluation with conditions.
a Direct state to generate appropriate conditions for this SCUP.
Continue the public hearing at the Commission's next regular meeting to
allow further study of this iten This results in tabling any action on this
item.
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ACT INDEPENDENT TURBO SERVICES
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN
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To: Planning Dept. —City of LaPorte
.Attn: Tint Tietjens
From: Billy Coleman, ACT Independent Turbo Services
Dear Mr_ Tietjens,
ACT hadependent Turbo Services is a rapidly growing business currently located near Hobby
Airport in Houston. Capital investment of b20mm over 4 years is well under way to facilitate
further growth of the business. ACT Independent Turbo Services would life to purchase a large
parcel of land in the City of LaPorte to relocate the existing business and greatly. expand the
current size. Enclosed are details about the company and the proposed plan.
By this lever, ACT Independent Turbo Services formally and respectfully proposes this plan for
approval by the City of Laporte.
The growth plan for ACT requires that land be purchased by raid Jan. 2012 in order to stay on
schedule. We would ask that the City of LaPorte expedite the approval process if possible.
Laporte is our first choice, but if we cannot get approval soon we will be forced to move on other
options outside LaPorte where zoning is already industrial.
The site plan proposed includes a very generous "green belt" in combination with vet bottom
retention pond to produce an attractive frontage view along Bay Area Blvd. The crane buildings
will be over 400 feet from Bay Area Blvd., and hidden from view due to the green belt. The
ftiture administration building will be brick construction with appropriate landscaping.
I have worked in LaPorte for over 27 years and believe that it is a great place to live and do
business. We are eager to meet with the City Staff, the .Planning and Zoning Commission, and
the City Council to discuss the plain.
Please call me with any questions or comments you may have.
Sincerely,
,&Z d w--
Billy Coleman
Chief Operating Officer
ACT Independent Turbo Systems
8525 Freeland St. Houston Texas, 77061
Cell## 713 - 898 -4906
. . . . . . . . . . .
Proposed Site Construction 2012 - 2014
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Staff Report
GROUP CARE FACILITIES
Zoning Ordinance Amendments
Workshop
January 19, 2012
Background
Group care facilities (aka group homes, community homes, residential personal care homes,
living centers and assisted living centers) are a vital part of today's society and the industry is
growing rapidly. These facilities currently exist within our City's neighborhoods (including
deed restricted areas) and the need for their registration and /or supervision by governing state
agencies is based upon the number of residents they serve.
Last year, following the receipt of allegations regarding "improper care of a family member ",
Police Department personnel discovered the City has no existing regulations providing them with
right of entry. At that time, they asked for Planning Department assistance in approaching City
Council about potential zoning regulations to assist with these matters. In September 2011,
Council directed Planning Department staff to forward the matter to the Comnussion for their
review and recommendation.
As discussed at the October 20�' P &Z workshop and November 17, 2011 public hearing current
zoning Sect. 106 -331, Table A identifies group care facilities [SIC Code #8361 — Residential
Care] as "conditional" in a high- density residential (R -3) zone and prohibits the facilities in both
low-density (R -1) and nud- density (R-2) zones. However, this prohibition can conflict with
Federal Fair Housing laws if otherwise legally pernussible facilities are operated in residential
areas, in many situations.
The proposal before you is not intended to prohibit or deter the use of the property as a group
home. In fact, the requirement would benefit the community's public health, safety and welfare
by providing city personnel right of entry (i.e. fire and building inspections to ensure safe
habitability; police access to investigate public safety concerns) and obtaining critical facility
information (Le. maximum resident numbers, contact information, etc.).
Comnussion comments from both previous meetings are included in the report/backup.
Existing Requirements
Sect. 106 -1. Definitions.
Group care facilities means residential facilities designed to provide a transition from traditional
treatment facilities to normal daily living for special populations such as the mentally retarded,
physically handicapped, or substance users. These facilities include but are not limited to half-
way houses and group homes.
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 2 of 12
Sec. 106 -331. Table A, residential uses.
A Accessory uses (subject to requirements of section 106 -741)
C— Conditional uses (subject to requirements of sections 106 -216 through 106 -218 and
designated criteria established in section 106 -334 as determined by the planning and zoning
comnussion).
*—not allowed.
Uses (SIC Code #)
Zones
Minimum
R -1
R -2
R -3
MH
LL
Group care facilities no
Lot
Lot
C
Height
Site
closer than 1,000 feet to a
Coverage /Min.
Area
Width
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11,
similar use 836)
Area /Unit
Space /Unit
Landscaping
/D.0
Freestanding on- premises
See article VII of this chapter
identification sign;
S. F. 5
townhouses, multi - family
Required 9,19
developments, group care
S.F.
facilities, subdivisions,
education and religious
facilities
Home occupations
A
A
A
A
A
A
Sec. 106 -332. - Interpretation and enforcement.
Property uses, except as provided for by section 106 -331, Table A, are prohibited and constitute
a violation of this chapter.
Sec. 106 -333. - Table B, residential area requirements.
(a) Table B, residential area requirements.
Uses
Min.
Minimum
Minimum Yard
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum Lot
8
Lot
Lot
Setbacks L.F. F.R.S.
Height
Site
Dev. Open
Coverage /Min.
Area
Width
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11,
Area /Unit
Space /Unit
Landscaping
/D.0
L. F.
12,13,14,15
S. F. 5
S. F.
Required 9,19
S.F.
Group care
25 -20 -10
25 Ft.
N/A
N/A
N/A/6%
facilities (less
than 6) and day
care homes
Freestanding
See article VII of this chapter
on- premises
signs
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Amendment
Page 3 of 12
Sec. 106 -874. - On- premises signs.
(a) Freestanding on premises signs.
(2) R -1, R -2, R-3, andMHdistricts.
a. One freestanding identification sign is permitted for townhouses, multifamily
developments, group care facilities subdivisions, education and religious facilities.
b. For a bed and breakfast facility one sign not exceeding three square feet in area
and nonilluminated shall be allowed. This sign may be either mounted on the building
or located in a landscaped portion of the yard.
c. For a home occupation facility one sign not exceeding two square feet in area and
notulluminated shall be allowed. This sign shall be mounted flat against the wall of the
principal building.
d The size of the sign may not exceed 150 square feet.
e. There are no minimum yard setbacks.
f. The maximum height is 45 feet.
(b) Attached onpremises signs.
(2) R -1, R -2, andMHdistncts.
a. The size of the sign may not exceed three square feet.
b. No portion of the sign may have a lur unous greater than 200 footcandles and
may not move, flash, rotate or change illumination.
(3) R-3, CR NC, GC BI, LI, and HI districts.
a. The cumulative size of the signs may not exceed 15 percent of the wall area.
b. If located closer than 50 feet to an R -1, R -2, or NM district, the sign may not
flash and must be designed so that it does not shine or reflect light into adjacent
residences.
C. One attached canopy sign may be displayed. Such sign shall not exceed 30
percent of the canopy area. Such sign must be contained within the physical linuts of
the canopy and shall not extend above or below the canopy.
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 4 of 12
Ana lyS *
• Table A needs amendment to reflect group care facilities as "protected ", "excepted" or
"typical for residential use'.
• An evaluation of the listed establishments in Standard Industrial Classification (SIC)
Industry Group # 836 (residential care), Industry #8361 is required.
• To ensure visual compatibility with residential neighborhoods, current sign regulations
should be amended to coordinate with all residential zones in Table A.
• Utilize the current 1,000 feet distance regulation in Table A, but amend the table to
include all residential zones.
Recommended Requirements
• Amend the group care facilities definition.
• Amend group care facility requirements in Table A (Uses) & Table B (Area
Requirements) with accompanying criteria
• Amend sign regulations to address use of group care facility signage within all residential
neighborhoods
• Consider "draft" application for issuance of a Group Care Facility Registration
Certificate (See Attached)
Sect. 106 -1. Definitions.
Group care facilities means residential facilities providing food and shelter to persons who are
unrelated to the proprietor of the establishment, designed to provide a transition from traditional
treatment facilities to normal daily living for special populations such as the elderly, mentally
handicapped, physically handicapped, or substance users. These facilities include but are not
limited to half -way houses and group homes.
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 5 of 12
Sec. 106 -331. Table A, residential uses.
P (ABC a - k)--Pernutted uses (subject to designated criteria established in S. 106 -334).
Uses (SIC Code #)
Zones
R -1
R -2
R -3
MH
LL
Group care facilities
(similar to SIC Industry
Group #836 - Except
halfway homes for
delinquents and
offenders; juvenile
correctional homes;
orphanages; homes for
destitute men & women;
self -help group homes for
persons with social or
personal problems; and
training schools for
delinquents) :
(3) or less persons
P 0)
P 0)
P 0)
P 0)
P 0)
(4) or more persons
P (k)
P (k)
P (k)
P (k)
P (k)
Freestanding on- premises
See article vll of this chapter
identification sign;
townhouses, multi - family
developments, group care
facilities (except when
located within a
residential neighborhood),
subdivisions, education
and religious facilities
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendinent
Page 6 of 12
Sec. 106 -334. Special use performance standards; residential.
0) Group care facilities that provide food and shelter to 3 or fewer persons (aka community
homes, residential personal care homes, living centers, assisted living centers and similar uses as
identified in SIC Industry Group 9836 (Residential Care), Industry 98361.
1. Location Facilities shall be permitted as a use -by -right in R 1 Low Density
Residential, R-2 Mid Density Residential, R-3 High Density Residential, MI-I
Manufactured Housing and LL Large Lot Districts.
2. Distance Requirement Group care facilities shall not be closer than 1,000 feet to
a similar use (SIC Industry Group 4836). Measurement shall be from the nearest
boundary of the sites on which they are located.
3. SSA Group care facilities located within a residential neighborhood shall be
allowed to have one (1) sign not exceeding two (2) square feet in area, non - illuminated
and mounted flat against the wall of the principal building.
4. Visual Compatibili ty : There shall be no change in the outside appearance of the
building or premises. No structural alterations shall be permitted that will cause the
group care facility to be substantially distinguishable from other surrounding residential
properties.
5. Registration Requirement Facilities providing food and shelter to three (3) or
fewer persons, who are unrelated to the proprietor of the establishment, shall comply with
all city regulations and register their facility with the City annually by obtaining a Group
Care Facility Certificate. The certificate cost shall be at the rate established in Appendix
A, fees, of this Code, shall expire on December 31 of each year. Such fee shall be
payable to the City on or before December 15 for the next succeeding calendar year.
The fee provided for in this article shall not be subject to proration or reduction for
payment for a period of less than twelve (12) calendar months. Operation of a facility
without first having obtained the required certificate shall be deemed a violation this
article.
6. Payment of Taxes All ad valorem taxes on any and all property, personal or real,
necessary to the operation of the facility must be paid prior to the issuance or renewal of
the certificate.
7. Display of Registration Certificate Every facility so registered shall display an
active registration certificate in a conspicuous place, within the facility common area, so
as to be easily seen by the public.
8. Access to the Facility City personnel shall have right -of -entry to ensure safe
habitability and public safety. City personnel shall advise on -site facility personnel of the
purpose of their visit.
9. Annual Inspection The Fire Marshal's Office shall perform a minimum of one
(1) annual inspection for each group care facility. Facilities shall comply with all
applicable city codes, ordinances, policies and regulations.
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 7 of 12
(k). Facilities shall be in compliance with State regulations pertaining to group care facilities.
To ensure compliance with state regulations, a copy of the facility's active State license shall be
provided to the City, when requested by city staff.
Sec. 106 -333. - Table B, residential area requirements.
(a) Table B, residential area requirements.
Uses
8
Min.
Lot
Area
/D. U.
S. F.
Minimu
m Lot
Width
L. F.
Minimum Yard
Setbacks L.F. F.R.S.
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11,
12,13,14,15
Maximum
Height
Minimum
Site
Area /Unit
S. F. 5
Minimum
Dev. Open
Space /Unit
S. F.
Maximum Lot
Coverage /Min.
Landscaping
Required 9,19,
20
GFGUIP Fe
facilities (
th d
day e
P5 X)
NA
N/A
nu�/o
homes
State Licensed
& Registered
Child -care
homes
(Max. (12) in
9100
private home;
6000
50
25 -15-5
35 Ft.
4.8
N/A
40 %/ N/A
per Tx. Dept.
DU/A
of Family &
Protective
Services,
Chap. 747)
Group care
facilities -
9100
(3) or less
6000
50
25 -15-5
35 Ft.
4.8
N/A
40 %/ N/A
persons
DU/A
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 8 of 12
Sec. 106 -874. - On- premises signs.
(a) Freestanding on premises signs.
(2) R -1, R -2, R-3, NlHand LL districts.
a. One freestanding identification sign is permitted for townhouses, multifamily
developments, group care facilities (except when located within a residential neighborhood),
subdivisions, education and religious facilities.
(b) Attached onpremises signs.
(2) R -1, R -2, R-3, NlHand LL districts.
a. The size of the sign may not exceed three square feet.
b. No portion of the sign may have a lur unous greater than 200 footcandles and
may not move, flash, rotate or change illununation.
c. Sim Group care facilities located within a residential neighborhood shall be
allowed to have one (1) sign not exceeding two (2) square feet in area, non - illuminated
and mounted flat against the wall of the principal building.
(3) R-4, CR NC, GC BI, LI, and HI districts.
a. The cumulative size of the signs may not exceed 15 percent of the wall area.
b. If located closer than 50 feet to an R -1, R -2, or NM district, the sign may not
flash and must be designed so that it does not shine or reflect light into adjacent
residences.
C. One attached canopy sign may be displayed. Such sign shall not exceed 30
percent of the canopy area. Such sign must be contained within the physical limits of
the canopy and shall not extend above or below the canopy.
Action by the Commission
1. Discuss the issues
2. Review attached "draft' application for a Group Care Facility Registration Certificate
3. The Comnussion may elect to:
➢ Continue the workshop at the next meeting
➢ Complete the review and schedule a public hearing for public input
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 9 of 12
sic
8361 RESIDENTIAL CARE
Establishments primarily engaged in the provision of residential social
and personal care for children, the aged, and special categories of
persons with some limits on ability for self -care, but where medical care
is not a major element. Included are establishments providing 24 -hour
year -round care for children. Boarding schools providing elementary and
secondary education are classified in Industry 8211. Establishments
primarily engaged in providing nursing and health - related personal care
are classified in Industry Group 805.
Alcoholism rehabilitation centers,
residential: with health care incidental
Boys' towns
Children's boarding homes
Children's homes
Children's villages
Drug rehabilitation centers, residential:
Nvith health care incidental
0 Group foster homes
Halfway group homes for person with
social or personal problems
"X" " Halfway homes for delinquents and
offenders
"X" Correctional homes
Old soldiers' homes
-X " Orphanages
Rehabilitation centers, residential: with
health care incidental
Homes for children, with health care
incidental
"X" Homes for destitute men & women
Homes for aged, with health care
incidental
Homes for the deaf or blind,
Nvith health care incidental
Homes for the emotionally disturbed,
with health care incidental
Homes for mentally handicapped,
Nvith health care incidental
Homes for physically handicapped,
with health care incidental
Rest homes, with health care incidental
"X" Self -help group homes for persons
with social or personal problems
"X" Training schools for delinquents
LEGEND:
Highlighted = Protected
"Y' = Excepted Zl= TN,pical for Residential Use
Group Gare Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Amendment
Page 10 of 12
APPLICATION FOR
GROUP CARE FACILITY
REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE
Regulations are applicable to group care facilities housing three (3) or fewer persons who are
unrelated to the proprietor of the establishment [Standard Industrial Classification (SIC)
Industry Group # 836; Industry #8361 (Residential Care)]
NEW RENEWAL: AMENDMENT:
ANNUAL FEE MOM (FEE SHALL NoT F PRO-RATED)
ED)
EXPIRATION DATE DECEMBER 31 ST OF EACH YEAR
(SUBJECT TO RENEWAL BY 12 /15 OF EA. YEAR)
ORDINANCE #: ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? Effective ? ? ? ? ??
- -- PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY --
ADDRESS OF FACILITY:
FACILITY NAME:
OWNER' S NAME
MAILING ADDRESS:
CITY /STATE/ZIP:
CONTACT NUMBER(s):
NIAXIMUM # OF PERSONS HOUSED:
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 11 of 12
I, , hereby acknowledge that I am the
owner of the facility and that the information provided in this application is factual. I
understand that failure to comply with applicable city regulations (see below) constitutes
a violation of the City's zoning regulations.
Sec. 106 -334. Special use performance standards; residential.
0) Group care facilities that provide food and shelter to 3 or fewer persons (aka community
homes, residential personal care homes, living centers, assisted living centers and sinular uses as
identified in SIC Industry Group #836 (Residential Care), Industry #8361.
1. Location Facilities shall be permitted as a use -by -right in R -1 Low Density
Residential, R-2 Mid Density Residential, R-3 High Density Residential, NM
Manufactured Housing and LL Large Lot Districts.
2. Distance Requirement Group care facilities shall not be closer than 1,000 feet to
a sinular use (SIC Industry Group #836). Measurement shall be from the nearest
boundary of the sites on which they are located.
3. Signae Group care facilities located within a residential neighborhood shall be
allowed to have one (1) sign not exceeding two (2) square feet in area, non- illununated
and mounted flat against the wall of the principal building.
4. Visual Compatibili ty : There shall be no change in the outside appearance of the
building or prenuses. No structural alterations shall be permitted that will cause the
group care facility to be substantially distinguishable from other surrounding residential
properties.
5. Registration Requirement Facilities providing food & shelter to three (3) or
fewer persons, who are unrelated to the proprietor of the establishment, shall comply with
all city regulations and register their facility with the City annually by obtaining a Group
Care Facility Certificate. The certificate cost shall be at the rate established in Appendix
A, fees, of this Code, shall expire on December 31s of each year. Such fee shall be
payable to the City on or before December 15 for the next succeeding calendar year.
The fee provided for in this article shall not be subject to proration or reduction for
payment for a period of less than twelve (12) calendar months. Operation of a facility
without first having obtained the required certificate shall be deemed a violation this
article.
6. Payment of Taxes All ad valorem taxes on any and all property, personal or real,
necessary to the operation of the facility must be paid prior to the issuance or renewal of
the certificate.
7. Display of Registration Certificate Every facility so registered shall display an
active registration certificate in a conspicuous place, within the facility common area, so
as to be easily seen by the public.
8. Access to the Facility City personnel shall have right -of -entry to ensure safe
habitability and public safety. City personnel shall advise on -site facility personnel of the
purpose of their visit.
Group Care Facilities
Zoning Ordinance Ainendznent
Page 12 of 12
9. Annual Inspection The Fire Marshal's Office shall perform a nunimum of one
(1) annual inspection for each group care facility. Facilities shall comply with all
applicable city codes, ordinances, policies and regulations.
X
Date Signature
- -- City Use Only - --
Zoning District: R 1 R -2 R-3 NM or LL
Sector #: HCAD #
Taxes: NOTE Not site specific, check company & indivi&utl
manies arul site)
Tax Dept. Approval: X
Date Name
Inspection Approval:
Date
10
Name
DO NOT COLLECT FEES/ISSUE CERTIFICATE UNTIL ITEMS ARE SATISFIED
TAX APPROVAL RCVD: INSP APPROVAL RCVD:
Certificate # Copy of Rcpt Attached: Date : _
Certificate Expiration: December 31,
Original Appl. /Cert to Insp. File: Copy of Appl. /Cert. to FMO:
COMMUNITY MOBILITY
Advanced transportation plaunin, and thorol,,hfare development help
colninunities prepare far fntnre traffic demands and create a safe and efficient
system of travel to, from, and within a conlnntinity. For La Porte, a
annmunity that is relatively built out, advance transportation planning relies
more on filling in missin, linka�,es, refining existing corridor appearance,
functionality, and efficiency; and improvin, the balance c f transportation
choices for the community durin, neu and revitalization /redevelopmernt
projects. If desi,ned well, these projects will not only improve mobility, but
will also iinprove sc fety and [lie overall quality of life in [lie community.
4.1 Introduction
A city's transportation system has a strong influence on the
quality of life and economic potential of a community. When
Gam
residents cannot move with relative ease throughout their
2001 2011 Update
community, this leads to frustration and detracts from local
quality of life. Likewise, retaining and attracting businesses
ch. 5 , Transportation Ch. 4, community
requires having adequate roadway, rail, air, and other facilities to
Thoroughfare System Mobility
move people and goods to and from the area in an efficient
;
manner. Indeed, traffic congestion, street maintenance, and safety along
roadways are often the most prevalent and talked about issues
when
addressing current and future community needs.
While travelling by car is the predominate form of people mobility in La
Porte' and is typically the topic that receives the most attention, planning for
' Over 95 percent of La Porters workers, age 16 and older, commute to work in an
automobile. U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 -2010 American Community Survey 5 -Year
Estimates.
A COM MUN IT°Y VI SION FO IS LA PORTE TE AS - 2010 I JPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
future travel needs in the City will involve looking at transportation as an
interconnected system of roadways, paths, trails, and sidewalks, with
multiple options for getting around including by transit and bike. In fact, the
City's recent commitment to constructing a City -wide trail system is already
starting to be a game- changing influence on the discussion of mobility in La
Porte.
4.2 Focus Areas, Goals, Actions and Initiatives
Throughout the planning process a number of issues were identified
regarding truck traffic, lack of connectivity, trails, sidewalks, and the airport.
These discussions formed the basis of the following focus areas, along with
an analysis of existing conditions and review of current programs, plans, and
ordinances. Each focus area contains contextual information, key planning
considerations, goals, (and their rationales), and advisable implementation
actions and initiatives. The areas of focus are as follows:
• Focus Area 1 — Maintained, safe and efficient street transportation
network;
• Focus Area 2 — Improved alternative modes of people mobility; and,
• Focus Area 3 — Expanded opportunities for water, rail, and air
movement of goods.
Focus Area 1 — Maintained, safe and efficient street
transportation network
Since La Porte is a composite community that is part of a larger metropolitan
area, the City's transportation system is comprised of both local streets,
which provide access throughout the City, and regional thoroughfares which,
provide access to other parts of the region. Both are necessary to create an
efficient transportation street system.
Regional Transportation Network
La Porte is well - connected to the region and is located along two major state
highways: State Highway (S.H.) 225 and S.H. 146. The existing street network
currently provides adequate north -south (i.e., Underwood Road, Sens Road,
and S.H. 146) and east -west connections (i.e., S.H. 225, Spencer Highway,
and W. Fairmont Parkway). Many of these roadways provide efficient,
convenient access to the greater metropolitan area, including Houston,
Baytown, Kemah, and Galveston.
Due to the significant increases in growth in the metropolitan area,
numerous studies and improvement projects have been proposed for these
roadways so that their capacity is maintained and /or improved as the area
continues to grow.
A CO1v1N4UNITY VISION FOR LA 1'ORTE TE AS - 2010 UPDATE
Grand Parkway (S. H. 99)
One of these projects is the construction and completion
of the Grand Parkway (S.H. 99), a proposed (and under
construction) 180+ mile, six -lane highway, which will
eventually become the third outer loop to serve the
regional mobility needs of the metropolitan area.
The Grand Parkway is comprised of 11 segments which
form a "C" around the metropolitan area. As denoted in
the inset in red, the area of S.H. 146 that passes through
the City of La Porte is not part of the official Grand
Parkway alignment! Despite not being officially
designated as part of the Grand Parkway, this section of
S.H. 146 through the City will see increased usage when
the loop system is complete. Construction is being
undertaken by the Texas Department of Transportation
(TxDOT) and there are currently two segments complete.
The Union
In 2003 through 2005, TxDOT conducted a Major Corridor Feasibility Study
(MCFS) for an approximate 16 -mile segment of S.H. 225 from Interstate 610
and ending at S.H. 146. Impetus for the plan was that the corridor serves as a
primary access route for the Barbours Cut Container Terminal and is
perceived to have heavy truck traffic.'
As part of that study, an Interchange /Ramp Improvements alternative
received the highest ranking and is currently being implemented. However,
there were no improvements planned for the interchanges within the City of
La Porte.
2 Grand Parkway (S.H 99) Environmental Review (June 1993); www.grandpky.com
website; phone interview (01/09/12) with David Gornet, P.E., Executive Director of
The Grand Parkway Association.
3 TxDOT, Houston District. S.N. 225 Major Corridor Feasibility Study — Final Report,
prepared by Carter & Burgess, Inc. November 2005.
4 Phone interview with Patrick Gant, Engineer with the Texas Department of
Transportation. 01/09/12
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA f't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY u0,zozz
/
0 Tom cm�
State Highway 146
Un its northern segment U.e, north of Fairmont
Fairmont Parkway
Fairmont Parkway isa major east-west connector for the City of La Porte as it
connects directly to Beltway 8and terminates near Downtown La Pore at
Sylvan Beach. Previously, the corridor was under consideration to be
converted into atoll road. That proposal is no longer under consideration
and subsequently, Harris County, Precinct 2, has moved forward with a four-
phase wideningprojeot.
Local Tran Network
, TxDOTS.Kl46 Major Investment Study (MB).
Phone interview with Patrick Gant, Engineer with the Texas Department of
Transportation. 01/09/12
S.H. 146 traverses La Porte on a north/south
alignment and extends Interstate 45 in Texas
City through La Porte intersecting with
Interstate 10 and continuing north toS.H. yU.
This corridor has been identified by the
rajmmon*phwy
Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAO, the
'
region's Metropolitan Planning Organization
Zed akrff
(MPU), as a candidate for significant
infra��ruotueinve�tment .
'MMim
Currently, S.H. 146 is undergoing asignificant
����-----
improvement project which will add sufficient
FM 617
capacity to meet the needs of corridor
residents through the year 2U2l^
Un its northern segment U.e, north of Fairmont
Fairmont Parkway
Fairmont Parkway isa major east-west connector for the City of La Porte as it
connects directly to Beltway 8and terminates near Downtown La Pore at
Sylvan Beach. Previously, the corridor was under consideration to be
converted into atoll road. That proposal is no longer under consideration
and subsequently, Harris County, Precinct 2, has moved forward with a four-
phase wideningprojeot.
Local Tran Network
, TxDOTS.Kl46 Major Investment Study (MB).
Phone interview with Patrick Gant, Engineer with the Texas Department of
Transportation. 01/09/12
The City is also comprised of local streets which help to move residents
through the community from their homes to employment and shopping
centers, schools, and places of leisure. As development and redevelopment
continues in and around the City, ensuring through movement along the
arterial street system, adequate connectivity, and ample options for travel
on the roadway network will be important in enhancing local mobility. The
City is already well- interconnected and given limited resources (i.e.,
financial) and constraints (i.e., limited vacant areas for new thoroughfare
placement), maximizing existing roadway assets through access
management, and other techniques (e.g., adding connections) will be
important in enhancing local mobility.
The majority of the City's older residential areas are on a grid system,
providing good connectivity within and through neighborhoods. Even many
of the City's more new neighborhoods (e.g., Fairmont Park West) have
relatively good connectivity where there is multiple access points and limited
reliance on dead -end and cul -de -sac streets. As detailed later in the actions
and initiatives section, there are some residential areas where it is
recommended to extend existing streets to make needed connections. Many
of these connections were identified in the previous thoroughfare plan and
are still important today. However, there was one previously identified
connection, Farrington to S.H. 225, which, due to changing conditions, may
no longer be as important today as it was in the past. Over the past 10 years,
the City has proactively determined that Lomax area should remain rural in
character, which also has a direct correlation to transportation and traffic, as
rural areas should have lesser traffic volume and a more rural appearance
(i.e., open grass swales vs. curb and gutter). In addition, both arterials on
either side (i.e., Underwood Road and Sens Road /Bay Area Boulevard) have
been, or will be improved to ensure an efficient roadway network in that
area. Therefore in that area, it recommended to extend Farrington
Boulevard just to Lomax School Road and to extend the stubbed out Valley
Brook Drive which would provide a northern entry/exit point for the Glen
Meadows subdivision.
Key Planning Considerations
Key planning considerations regarding the planning needs to ensure a
maintained, safe and efficient street transportation network include:
1) Improving roadway conditions through reconstructing failing streets,
striping roadways, seal -coat or overlay those needing surface
improvement, installing and /or improving underground or ditch drainage
systems, replacing traffic signs and synchronizing traffic signals.
2) Implementing a comprehensive streets- to-standards program to
concentrate on bringing all roads throughout the community to an
equivalent standard. This program is essentially a City -wide initiative to
inventory all street conditions and institute a pavement management
system.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS - 010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
3) Coordination with regional partners to implement the
necessary improvements to S.H. 146 and Fairmont Parkway.
4) Being cognizant of the fact that full implementation of the
Grand Parkway (S. H. 99) will impact traffic patterns in the City.
5) Facilitating an adequate arterial and collector street system
that provides for multiple connections and options.
6) Accommodating and mitigating the effects of increased
freight movement in and through the City.
7) Maximizing flow and reducing traffic conflicts on existing
facilities through access management and other Transportation
System Management (TSM) strategies.
8) Thoroughfare development that is aesthetically pleasing and
compatible with and complements desired character. The character
of a corridor is influenced by the City's ordinances and Public
Improvement Criteria Manual (PICM) standards which regulate the
form of development, including the location and design of sites and
buildings which interact with the thoroughfare system.
Based on these considerations, the following goals, actions, and
initiatives address specific issues and needs identified during the
public participation process (and outlined in Chapter 1, Plan
Context).
community GOAL 4.1: Coordinate with federal, state, and local partners in enhancing
regional mobility to facilitate moving people and goods to, from, and
through the
Actions and Initiatives
1) Actively participate with TxDOT, The Grand Parkway Association, and
other agencies as additional planning and design efforts are undertaken
on the S.H. 99 segments north and south of the City. Since these
segments will have an effect on the City, it is important for the City to
evaluate its planning and design implications.
2) Actively participate in regional and statewide transportation planning
activities to promote funding and improvements that benefit La Porte.
3) Continue to coordinate with the Houston - Galveston Area Council (H-
GAC), TxDOT, and other regional partners to ensure implementation of
the following planning projects identified in the 2035 Regional
Transportation Plan (RTP).'
a. TIP (2011) — City of La Porte Bike Trail for comprehensive bike and
pedestrian trail system improvements (phase 1) and the Pasadena
connector; estimated to cost $1,918,723 (City of La Porte).
Bridging Our Communities 2035 — The 2035 Houston- Galveston Regional
Transportation Plan Update, 1/25/11.
A CO1v1MUNITY VI SI ON FOR LA 1'ORTE TE AS - 2010 UPDATE
Goal 4.2: A local transportation system that moves people through the
community in a safe and efficient manner.
Actions and Initiatives
1) Continue to utilize the Thoroughfare Plan to address transportation
improvement needs and to preserve future rights-of-way needed to
accommodate long-term development of the arterial and collector
thoroughfare system. This also includes, to the extent feasible,
minimizing the existence and new construction of dead-end streets and
cul-de-sacs.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA PORTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
5) In conformance with the Thoroughfare Plan (see Map 4.1,
Thoroughfare Plan and Section 4.3 of this Chapter), work with
affected stakeholders to make the following street connections on
existing streets:
a. Collingswood Road and Collingswood Drive;
b. Catlett Lane from Roseberry Drive to Valley Brook Drive;
c. Venture Lane from Aston Lane to Somerton Drive;
d. N. Avenue H just east of Meadow Lark Lane;
e. West Barbours Cut Boulevard to Sens Road (would require an
overpass over the railroad);
f. Bayou forest Drive to McCabe Road with an extension to
Hollow Tree Street; and,
g. Valley Brook Drive to N. Avenue H.
A COd MUNITYVISION FOR LA 1'ORTE TEXAS _2010 UPDATE
6) Adopt a street connectivity index (for the remaining
larger undeveloped areas) to ensure there are
adequate street connections in a neighborhood and EXAMP112 Vbdif�d f. —i .�b
to improve directness of routes. The purpose of (16 ln<�I� I roces 1 ,4�)
connectivity requirements would be to create
multiple, alternate routes for automobiles and — 4 — 4
create more route options for people on foot and
bicycles. The connectivity ratio would be identified
in the development regulations and would be based
*
on existing subdivisions in La Porte. Features of the
ordinance should include:
a. An appropriate connectivity index (e.g., street
links divided by street nodes). I
b. Requirements for connecting local and collector L — — — — — — — — I L — — — L — — — — I
Nurber = Link Ncde
streets to adjacent developments to ensure a
minimum level of external connectivity.
c. Requirements to establish pedestrian routes
between land uses. This is particularly
important where natural features or other
constraints make it impractical to connect streets.
d. Provisions to discourage cut-through traff ic and speeding. (see inset)
7) Coordinate with the county as necessary to conduct signal warrant
studies to determine if signals are needed at the below specified
intersections. Indicative of a rural area, Lomax has long lengths of
roadway and limited connectivity. As such, the terminus of each of these
roadways segments could warrant the need for a signal now, or in the
future as infill development/redevelopment continues.
a. North P Street and Sens Road;
b. North L Street and Sens Road;
c. North Avenue H and Sens Road; and,
d. North Avenue H and Underwood Road.
8) Coordinate With the county to request signal timing studies to be done
on Fairmont Parkway and Spencer Highway.
9) Periodically conduct signal warrant studies as area travel volumes
increase With new development and as truck traffic increases due to the
Panama Canal expansion and regional growth. In areas that are already
managed by traffic signals (e.g., and the new signal at 16 1h Street was
identified as having existing signal timing problems), signal timing should
be reviewed, particularly in congested areas, to determine if timed traffic
signals are appropriate relative to the volume and peaks in traffic flow.
Adjustments should be made to traffic signals so they are timed
accordingly. Pedestrian- and bicycle-actuated traffic signals should be
8 Truck volumes are expected to grow by 77 percent by 2035 along the major trade
corridors serving the Houston-Galveston area's port and waterway system. H-GAC
Regional Goods Movement Study— Final Report. Dec. 2011.
N
A COMMUN ITY VI S ION FOR LA PO RTE, TEXAS - 2010 U P DATE
DRAFT JANUARY u0,zozz
installed at intersections near schools, parks, and other
of existing conditions, including land use and zoning, building footprints,
numbers and locations of driveways and parking lots, numbers and
locations of signs, trees, and vegetation, power poles and overhead lines,
street cross sections and rights -of -way, sidewalks and pedestrian
improvements, pervious and impervious surfaces, and general visual
characteristics. The enhancement and design plans should include any
regulatory recommendations and identified improvements and their
estimated costs. An implementation plan should identify priorities,
funding options and sources, and a timeline. As identified in Chapter 2,
Map 2.2, Beautification Plan, primary corridors should include S.H. 225,
Fairmont Parkway (in conjunction with the Harris County widening
project), Underwood Road, and S.H. 146 frontage roads. Secondary
corridor enhancements should be completed on Spencer Highway, Sens
Road, San Jacinto Drive, and Broadway Street.
15) Expand the formal traffic calming program to include City- initiated
travel speed studies to determine appropriate speed restrictions in
neighborhoods and pedestrian areas. Perform localized traffic calming
studies where there are observed unsafe conditions of cut - through
and /or high -speed traffic to determine if any potential mitigation
strategies are viable without undermining roadway capacity and creation
of traffic congestion issues. (see also Chapter 2, Land Use and Character,
Goal 3, Action Item # 5)
16) Continue to monitor efforts to modify legislation to increase the
allowable truck haul weights via the development of a truck Heavy Haul
Corridor on S.H. 225 and S.H. 146. This is to ensure changes in
regulations do not have a negative impact on the City.
17) Coordinate with state, county, industrial districts, and other regional
partners to address increasing truck traffic in the area. This could include
determining potential long -term solutions to reducing and /or removing
some or all truck traffic from Fairmont Parkway as other road
improvements in the area are completed (e.g., Canada to Red Bluff Road
connection, widening and grade- separated crossings on S.H. 146, Sens
Road widening, etc.).
18) Maintain funding and support for the Clean City Street Program as it
improves the appearance of existing corridors and helps to enhance
quality of life for La Porte s citizens.
19) Maintain established regulations allowing golf carts to be utilized on
certain public rights -of -way within City limits.
9 City of La Porte Public Works Department, Traffic Humps. http://www.ci.la -
porte.tx. us /gov /pw /streetsAh. asp.
10 La Porte Code of Ordinances, Sec. 70-304. Operation of golf carts permitted.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA f't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
One of the best ways to increase alternative modes of people mobility
is to adopt and implement a Complete Streets policy (see inset), which
means that streets are designed for all modes of transportation —
walking, bicycling, transit, and vehicular movement."
Sidewalks
With the City's recent expansion of the trail system, it further justifies
and increases the value of improving the City's existing and future
sidewalk system. This can be accomplished in two ways: the
installation of sidewalks where they do not currently exist, and the
repair of sidewalks in disrepair. Prioritization for sidewalk installation
should include key routes to schools, as wells as those areas
connecting residential developments and areas of employment and
commercial services.
11 City of La Porte, Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Implementation Plan. 2003.
12 Complete Streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users.
Complete Street policies direction transportation planners and designers to design
consistently with all users in mind. Elements of Complete Streets include:
sidewalks /trails, bus pull -outs, bike lanes, raised crosswalks, wide shoulders, audible
pedestrian signals, sidewalk bulb -outs, refuge medians, pedestrian amenities, special
bus lanes, shade and shelter, and trees and landscaping. National Complete Streets
Coalition, www.completestreets.org.
A CO1v1MUNITY VISION FOR LA I'ORTE TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
to the Federal Americans with Disability Act (ADA) requirements, there are
many existing sidewalks where there remain barriers to persons with
disabilities due to their poor condition or lack of pedestrian drops at
street intersections.
Similar to street connectivity provisions, pedestrian connections
provide a great many benefits including the promotion of increased
exercise and alternate forms of transportation selection. Within
subdivision reviews, likely current and future pedestrian destinations
(such as parks, schools, the City's trail system, nearby shopping and
dining establishments, etc.) should be carefully examined and
pedestrian pathways should be required in mid -block or cul -de -sac
locations to provide more direct and efficient pedestrian route
opportunities.
Trails
In 2003, the City Council adopted the La Porte Pedestrian - Bicycle
Master Plan with the intent of creating a City -wide trail network that
connects both the east and west sides of town. Prior to adoption of
the comprehensive trail plan, the City had approximately less than
two miles of trails, mostly comprised of walking paths located within
existing park and recreation areas.
The plan's focus was to show how a network of pedestrian and bicycle ways
can be implemented, "designing an interconnected system of paths, trails,
lanes, and routes that are multipurpose, accessible where possible,
convenient and connect to residential neighborhoods, parks, schools,
workplaces, shopping and major open spaces as well as tie into the
neighboring communities' trail systems. The plans goals were to:
• Enhance the quality of life for La Porte citizens by providing the
opportunity for non - motorized travel from home to recreation, school,
shopping, work or visiting friends;
• Create and preserve green belt linkages of parks, open spaces, drainage
ways, irrigation canals, bikeways, paths, and natural areas throughout
the City;
• Use linear parks and greenbelts to create low maintenance additions to
the park system; and,
• Coordinate with Harris County, H -GAC, the City of Baytown, City of
Pasadena and other municipalities, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, International
Boundary and Waterway Council, and other federal, state, and local
governmental entities in efforts to preserve and enhance the waterways,
green spaces, and natural areas within the La Porte area.
13 City of LaPorte, Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Implementation Plan. 2003.
14 Ibid.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA f't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
As displayed in Table 4.1, La Porte
Trail System Phasing, the result of the
Phase 1 7 3.95 1.35
Phase II 4.25 4.4 5.3
Phase 111 9.4 0 2.8
Tota I Tra i I System:
• Designated bicycle routes.
Finally, the plan recommended the
design and construction of safe trail crossings, including both grade -
separated (i.e., above- and below - grade) and at -grade crossings. While most
trails are originally constructed using at -grade crossings, over time and as
trail usage increases, grade- separated crossing should be added. (see inset)
As displayed in Table 4.2, Completed Trail Segments -2011 (on next page),
the City of La Porte had constructed approximately 14 miles of the trail
system which now allows citizens to ride a bike on a paved trail from the Five
Points Town Plaza to the Pasadena Convention Center and many other parts
of the City that were not previously accessible just years ago."
is La Porte By the Bay — Community Information 2011, New Nike and Bike Trails
Connect Citizens, Neighborhoods.
A CO1v1MUNITY VI SION FOR LA I'ORTE TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
Some of the recommendations that came out of that study for Precinct 2
were the creation of a park- and -ride along S.H. 225 to serve La Porte and
Pasadena and to create a Baytown- Pasadena -La Porte Circulator. To fund
these initiatives, the Harris County Commissioners Court authorized the
Community Services Department (CSD) to be the administrator of all non -
infrastructure Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDOT) Transit funds. CSD also obtained consent from the
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Harris County METRO to
become an additional Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recipient of
Section 5307 funds which was the first step in the process of gaining access
to $4.5 million a year in federal grant funds. These funds would be used to
16 Houston - Galveston Area Council (H -GAC) Regional Transit Framework Study
Related Plans and Studies Report. HDR Engineering, June 29, 2010 update.
http://www.harriscountytransit.com/news.html
17 Harris County Transit Strategy — Enhancing Mobility & Economic Development
Through Transit. Presentation by The Goodman Corporation to the Mayors of
Precinct 2. January 25, 2006.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA f't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
provide transportation alternatives to county residents who previously did
not have access to these types of services. To be eligible for receiving federal
funding, local share funding and commitments are required.
In 2007, the Harris County Office of Transit Services was created to design
and operate a multitude of transportation services in areas of the county not
served by METRO. These services include Park and Ride, fixed - route, and
para- transit services. In January 2010, a fixed -route "Circulator" was created
and sponsored by the Pasadena Second Century Corporation, San Jacinto
College, and the Cities of South Houston, Pasadena, and La Porte. In October
2010, La Porte entered into an Interlocal Agreement with Harris County and
contributed $90,000 to continue the circulator bus service for another year.
In less than 15 months of operation, "Route 4" averages 2,500 hoardings a
month and is growing. (see inset next page) About of a third of that ridership
is attributed to younger San Jacinto College students looking for efficient,
dependable alternate transportation options. These students were also the
first to utilize the bike racks attached to the buses so that their mobility
options pre- and post- transit ride are also increased. In addition to travelling
to and from college and work, the Circulator is also used for mall shopping,
doctor visits, and library visits. Despite being a relatively new service, with
limited signage minimal marketing, benches or covered shelters, this
alternative mobility option is being used by hundreds daily.
Key Planning Considerations
Key planning considerations regarding the planning needs to improve
alternate modes of people mobility include:
1) Constructing or reconstructing sidewalks where they do not exist or are
in poor condition (particularly adjacent to schools and public buildings),
installing pedestrian amenities including crosswalks and signals, and
installing street lights.
2) Working with Harris County to expand public transit opportunities to
additional residents.
3) Identifying needs and innovative transportation options for
accommodating an aging population and disabled residents (e.g., those
using motorized wheelchairs and scooters), including appropriate transit
services and parking facilities.
4) Expanding connectivity between neighborhoods and commercial and
public areas through an interconnected system of sidewalks and trails.
18 Ibid.
19 La Porte By the Bay — Community Information, Harris County Bus Route Serves La
Porte Citizens. 2011
20 City of La Porte website: Harris County Transit Fixed Route Bus Service: Pasadena /
La Porte Corridor Video. http: / /www.ci.1a- porte.tx.us /about /transportation.asp.
A CO1v1MUNITY VISION FOR LA 1'ORTE TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
5) Finding a balance between the social service aspect of providing public
transit and the overall community benefit of increased mobility.
6) Neighborhood design that calms traffic and encourages slower speeds,
including narrower streets where appropriate.
Actions and Initiatives
1) Adopt a "Complete Streets' policy and commit to designing and
constructing "Complete Streets' in the remaining areas of new
development (and in any area undergoing revitalization or
redevelopment) which will provide for the mobility and safety of all users
of the system, rather than just automobile traffic. A Complete Streets
approach may be more difficult to apply to already established
thoroughfares, although it should be able to be incorporated during road
reconstruction and /or streetscape improvement projects. On
thoroughfares which are constrained by narrow rights -of -way, only some
Complete Street features, such as wider sidewalks or streetscape
enhancements, may be feasible through a redesign and retrofitting
process.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
future sidewalks in order to facilitate increased usage.
21 Ibid.
22 Ibid.
23 Ibid.
24 Ibid.
A COM MU N ITY VISION FOR LA PORTE. T EXAS - 2010 UPDATE
increased GOAL 4.5: Continue to implement the planned trail network and facilitate
o - on points over
Actions and Initiatives
1) Continue to coordinate with the La Porte Independent School District (La
Porte ISD) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to
pursue funding for, and construction of, additional "Safe Routes to
School' segments. This program was used to fund the 2.1 mile Broadway
Trail completed in 2005.
2) Periodically update the Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Implementation Plan
as changes in conditions occur. Subsequent updates should include a
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS w 010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
detailed analysis to determine where additional connections can be
made to maximize access to the already established trail system.
3) Continue to budget, or pursue additional outside funding, to construct
the remaining trail segments as identified in the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Trail Implementation Plan. Due to the significant costs of initial
construction, maintenance of the existing trail system should be a
priority and should be adequately funded in the annual operating
budget. Additional grant funding should also be pursued from such
sources as federal, state, private entities.
4) To facilitate the increased availability of using a bicycle as an alternate
form of mobility over time, amend the development regulations to
add provisions for requiring bicycle racks at office and retail
establishments exceeding 15,000 square feet and business
employing more than 10 persons.
I !'A . Further - the Harris County
increase usage as an alternate mode of mobility for the citizens of
, Pwte.
Actions and Initiatives
1) At a minimum, continue to budget $90,000 to cover the
City's portion of the costs to maintain and operate the Route 4
circulator bus service. As ridership increases, pursue grant funding
or other funding sources to further invest in amenities for those bus
stops located within the City limits. Implementation should be
prioritized on the average number of hoardings per day at the stop.
The amenities should include all- weather shelters (for protection
from rain and other elements), benches (for seating), trash cans (for
maintaining cleanliness), concrete or paved connections to the curb
(for disabled users), appropriate signage (for fare and route
information), monitors for real -time information on the arrival of
buses, public art, lighting, and advertisements (potentially to offset
the costs of installing and maintaining each bus stop).
2) Coordinate with the Harris County Office of Transit Services
(and other partners) to implement an online (and mobile app), real -
time transit information system using GPS technology to notify
passengers when the arrival of the next bus will occur. Studies have
shown that this can increase ridership.
3) Consider coordinating with the Harris County Office of
Transit Services (and other partners) to initiate and implement a
Summer Youth Pass Program, where high school -aged children are
given unlimited access to buses (for a nominal fee) during the
summer months so that it provides the City's youth with increased
access to a range of activities along the bus route and provides
greater independence to the youth while their parents are at work.
Coordination with the La Porte Independent School District (ISD)
A CO1v1MUNITY VISION FOR LA 1'ORTE TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
could also be done to market the program prior to the end of the school
year.
4) Coordinate with the Harris County Office of Transit Services (and other
partners) to conduct a study to determine additional placement of bus
stops. Additional scheduled stops could be located at the entrances of
each major subdivision (e.g., Brookglen Subdivision), multi - family
housing, large commercial developments, assisted living facilities, etc.)
Alternately, programs could be implemented where the bus would stop
at designated "flag stops" only if a flag is set to request a stop or via pull
cords where a rider would pull a cord to request a stop.
5) Coordinate with Harris County Office of Transit Services (and other
providers) to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of expanding
the existing route to include stops at designated areas within the
surrounding industrial districts and terminals, e.g., adding a Bay Area
Boulevard to Shore Acres Boulevard to Broadway loop.
6) Coordinate with the Harris County Office of Transit Services to determine
the feasibility of constructing a Park - and -Ride in the City for commuter
access to Downtown Houston.
movement Focus Area 3 — Expanded opportunities for water, rail, and a
of freight or goods.
Freight, or goods movement, refers to the transportation of physical goods
from one location to another and includes everything from chemicals,
machinery, and anything else shipped from one place to another. A region's
freight transportation system is comprised of roadways, airports, water
ports, pipelines and freight terminals, including truck, rail, port, and pipeline
terminals. The region's multi -modal transportation system, of which La Porte
is a primary contributor, moves nearly 700 million tons of freight annually
and is expected to grow 58 percent (to 1.2 billion tons yearly) by 2035.
Consequently, identifying and implementing improvements to accommodate
increasing demand for goods movement is critical to La Porte's, and the
region's, economic vitality. In fact, a large part of the Houston - Galveston
region relies on its diverse transportation assets, including deep water ports,
the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and Class I railroads.
The La Porte Municipal Airport
The La Porte Municipal Airport is located on 300 acres on the north side of
Spencer Highway east of Farrington Street and west of Driftwood Drive. It
was originally constructed in the mid -1940s by the United States
Government and served as a second auxiliary landing field to Ellington Air
25 H -GAC Regional Goods Movement Study —Final Report. Dec. 2011.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
Force Base. Ownership was deeded to the City of La Porte in June 1947 and
was reclassified as a local service airport in 1959.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) National Plan of
Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS), the La Porte Municipal Airport is
classified as a General Utility airport with Reliever status. The General Utility
airport designation refers to the particular Aircraft Approach Categories and
Airplane Design Groups (ADGs) that can be accommodated at the airport.
Reliever airports are general aviation airports in metropolitan areas that are
intended to reduce congestion at large commercial service airports by
providing general aviation pilots with alternative landing areas, and providing
more general aviation access to the community. In 1991, the Houston -
Galveston Areas Council (H -GAC) identified the La Porte Municipal Airport as
one of 10 designated reliever airports. As established in the Airport and
Airway Improvement Act of 1982, a minimum of 10 percent of Airport
Improvement Program funds must be reserved for reliever airports.
The La Porte Municipal Airport Master Plan was prepared for the City in
1992. The plan identifies existing and future airport conditions and facilities,
including details on fixed base operators, aircraft parking, maintenance,
navigational aids, airport layout plan, terminal area plan, airspace and
approach zones surfaces, on- airport land use plan, and an environmental
consequences review. However, an operational plan was not included.
Historically, the airport has not met the use and revenue projections as
projected in the Airport Master Plan. Further complicating the problem is the
recent vacancy of the 27 Squadron of the Texas Air National Guard and a
general perception that the airport grounds have not been well maintained.
Consequently, one of the topics that came up during the public participation
process was whether or not the airport property should be redeveloped as
another use. Reusing the property for non - airport purposes, however, would
be difficult due to federal regulations attached to the property conveyance.
26 LaPorte Municipal Airport — Airport Master Plan Update (Final), April 1992.
27 Conveyances to Public Agencies.... the Secretary of Transportation shall request
the head of the department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States
Government owning or controlling land or airspace to convey a property interest in
the land or airspace to the public agency sponsoring the project or owning or
controlling the airport when necessary to carry out a project under this subchapter
at a public airport, to operate a public airport, or for the future development of an
airport under the national plan of integrated airport systems.... A conveyance may
be made only on the condition that the property interest conveyed reverts to the
Government, at the option of the Secretary, to the extent it is not developed for an
airport purpose or used consistently with the conveyance. 49 USC Chapter 471,
Airport Development Code, Sec. 47125, Conveyance of United States Government
land. (paraphrased for clarity).
A COtUtMUNITY VI SI ON FOR LA 1'ORTE TE AS - 2010 UPDATE
As a first step in improving the property's appearance, the
City recently relocated the fence along Spencer Highway with the intent to
eventually construct a portion of the City -wide trail system along the
frontage.
Railroads
Rail transportation in the La Porte area is provided by the Union Pacific
Railroad which operates in 23 states across the western two - thirds of the
United States. A Union Pacific Railroad line runs alongthe north City limits of
La Porte, along the southern right -of -way of S.H. 225. The line provides port
terminal service to the Battleground Industrial District north of S.H. 225 as
well as the Barbours Cut Terminal in Morgan's Point. The main line branches
south on a north /south alignment parallel to S.H. 146, extending south along
S.H. 146 to the Port of Galveston. This line branches off to provide service to
the Bayport Industrial District south of Fairmont Parkway and the Bayport
Terminal. In the Houston - Galveston Region, the Union Pacific Railroad
operates 1,248 freight trains weekly, which accounts for over 57 percent of
the regions freight movement.
improvements at existing crossings
are potential solutions. In fact, the
recent completion of the grade
separated crossing over Fairmont
Parkway was well received and
considered a success. (see inset)
Port of Houston
"The ports, ship channels, and
waterways of the Houston Galveston region are of vital, regional, national,
28 H -GAC Regional Goods Movement Study —Final Report. Dec. 2011.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
and international significance, linking its chemical, oil, and agriculture
industries with markets and suppliers located throughout the world."
Despite the recession, the region's waterborne freight tonnage is expected
to grow by approximately 45 percent by 2035, with the Port of Houston
projected to experience an increase of nearly 42 million tons.
The Port of Houston is a general purpose, deep -water cargo port that ranks
first in the United States in terms of foreign waterborne commerce and
second in terms of total tonnage. The port consists of a complex of public
and private docking facilities and industrial parks that extend for 25 miles
along the Houston Ship Channel. The ship channel and its tributaries and
basins are a 50 -mile long waterway that reaches from the head of Galveston
Bay at Morgan's Point just north of La Porte to and including the turning
basin within the City limits of Houston. A shallow -draft channel extends up
Buffalo Bayou from the turning basin to the Main Street Bridge. Additional
facilities of the port are located along the upper west side of the Galveston
Bay at Bayport near Red Bluff, which is adjacent to the south of La Porte.
The Port of Houston handles 40 percent of all freight moving through Texas
ports. This port is also ranked first in the U.S. in handling petro - chemicals.
Barbours Cut Terminal
The Barbours Cut Terminal is located in Morgan's Point near
the Galveston Bay opening to the Houston Ship Channel,
adjacent to the north City limits of La Porte. It is largest
container terminal on the U.S. Gulf Coast. It operates under a
computerized inventory control system that tracks the status
and location of individual containers. The terminal also
29 Ibid.
30 Port of Houston website.
A CO1v1MUNITY VIS[ON FOR LA 1'ORTE TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
provides electronic data interchange capabilities and has six berths and 13
wharf cranes.
Bayport Terminal
The Bayport Container and Cruise Terminal were developed to relieve
pressure on the Barbours Cut Terminal. It is a state -of- the -art facility and will
substantially increase the Port's container handling capacity. It will have
seven container berths with a capacity to handle 2.3 million twenty -foot
equivalent units (TEUs). In addition, it includes the Bayport Cruise Terminal
which will provide three berths for modern cruise vessels. The opening phase
was in 2007. The Bayport Terminal complex comprises chemicals and
chemical specialty facilities. S.H. 146 would be the major arterial for truck
traffic to and from the terminal, which is projected to attract 7,000 trucks
per day. In addition, a new rail line is proposed to be constructed east of the
existing Union Pacific alignment, intersecting S.H. 146 at Red Bluff.
Key Planning Considerations
1) Coordination with railroad providers to maximize the ability to move
freight in and out of the City, while minimizing the adverse impacts on
quality of life. Because roads intersect with rail lines throughout the City,
they must be designed to include adequate safety provisions to ensure
safe crossings for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Signal crossings,
signage, and pavement markings are ways to provide for safe
intersection crossings. While the railroad presents some challenges, it
also presents an opportunity in terms of transporting goods through the
region.
2) The railroad is a constraint for east /west movement of automobile traffic
in the La Porte area.
3) The airport makes a significant economic impact and benefits the
economic development potential for the La Porte area.
4) Airport- related industrial development is a significant opportunity for
future growth on and around the airport.
5) The Port of Houston, Barbours Cut Terminal, and Bayport Terminal are
essential and intricately linked to the City's entire economy.
Actions and Initiatives
6) At a minimum, grade crossing safety and traffic control devices including
gate arms, flashing lights, signage and pavement markings should be
installed and maintained at railroad- roadway crossings As regional and
local traffic volume increases, consider coordinating with the railroad
31 Ibid.
32 Ibid.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
and other regional partners to study the need to construct grade
separated crossings for those street /railroad intersections that may
warrant it, e.g., along Bay Area Boulevard and Choate Road.
7) Coordinate with the railroad to ensure train speed limits are observed
and enforced for train operations in the La Porte area.
8) Encourage expanded rail service through the City for the movement of
freight (and if ever applicable, passengers), and capitalize on the major
rail infrastructure in the City.
9) Due to the recent decreases in tenant occupancy at the airport, e.g., the
leaving of the 27 Squadron of the Texas Air National Guard, and due to
the length of time since the last update, it is important for the City to
undertake an airport master plan update. The airport master plan
update should include the following:
a. Operations plan;
b. Updated facilities and development plan (if priorities have changed);
c. Economic development strategy to increase both commercial use
and use of the airport by nearby industry; and,
d. Overall site and landscape improvement plan, which includes a
gateway entrance and adequate buffering of the airport property
from neighboring subdivisions and other public rights -of -way.
10) Continue to monitor zoning and development in the areas immediately
adjacent to the airport. This is to ensure protection of the airport's long-
term operational interests from encroaching incompatible development.
11) Support the Port Authority's efforts to make more efficient connections
to the State Highway and regional rail system; where such
actions will not be detrimental to the City.
4.3 Thoroughfare Plan
The City's Thoroughfare Plan is designed to provide for the
future travel needs of the community by ensuring orderly
development of the street system, including the extension and
improvement of existing streets, as well as planned future
roadways. The Thoroughfare Plan is designed to ensure that
adequate rights -of -way are preserved with a general alignment
and sufficient width to allow for efficient expansion and
improvement of the street transportation system. In addition,
it is designed to provide opportunities for other transportation
modes so as to not place a fiscal burden on the community to
fund extensive road improvements, which, in turn, require
long -term maintenance.
While La Porte's existing thoroughfare system is nearly built
out, there are areas where there is opportunity for
A CO1v1MUNITYVISION FOR LA 1'ORTE TEXAS _2010 UPDATE
improvement, particularly with regard to connectivity. As displayed in Map
4.2, Thoroughfare Plan and detailed in Goal 4.2, are the proposed
alignments for the extensions of existing collector and arterial roadways.
Roadway Design Standards
While street classification reflects the functions that roadways serve as part
of the street network, roadway design standards are related to traffic
volume, design capacity, and level of service. The City's existing
requirements are shown in Table 4.3, Existing City of La Porte Paving Design
Criteria.
Right -of -Way Width
Curb Face to Face Distance
100 feet
80 feet
100 feet
70 feet
80 feet
60 feet
80 feet
40 feet
60 feet
28 feet
Total Paved Width of Travel lanes -1 Dir.
33 feet
25 feet
24 feet
20 feet
14 feet
(2)
Median Width
14 feet
30 feet
12 feet
0 feet
0 feet
Distance from Curb Face to ROW line I31
10 feet
30 feet
10 feet
20 feet
16 feet
Distance from ROW line to Sidewalk
2 feet
2 feet
2 feet
2 feet
2 feet
Max. Number of lanes (one direction)
3
2
2
2
1
Z
In the administration and enforcement of the Thoroughfare Plan, special
cases and unique situations will occasionally arise where physical conditions
and development constraints in certain areas conflict with the need for
widening of designated thoroughfares to the planned right -of -way width and
roadway cross section. Such special circumstances require a degree of
flexibility and adaptability in the administration and implementation of the
plan. Acceptable minimum design criteria and special roadway cross sections
may have to be applied in constrained areas where existing conditions limit
the ability to meet desirable standards and guidelines. Special roadway cross
sections should be determined on a case -by -case basis when a unique design
is necessary, and these exceptions should be subject to approval by the
Departments of Planning and Public Works. Otherwise, adopted roadway
cross sections should be used in all newly developing areas and, whenever
possible, in revitalization and redevelopment of existing developed areas.
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA f't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
In addition, relying on a single set of standards for development may be
problematic. According to the City's 2005 Comprehensive Plan Update and
the City's Public Improvement Criteria Manual (PICM), all new streets
within the City will be concrete curb and gutter. Rather, standards for
development should reflect its urban, auto - urban, and suburban character,
with provision for curb and gutter construction, sidewalks, street lighting,
signage, and sufficient open space. By way of example, new development in
the Lomax area (where the character of development is rural), the standards
should be varied to mirror the character (i.e., open channel construction),
yet remain reasonable and feasible.
E �1] iTFI 191
State Highways/ Freeways
Freeways are devoted entirely to traffic movement with limited or no direct
land service function. Freeways are multi -lane divided roadways with a high
degree of partial access control, meaning few, if any, intersections at grade.
Full or partial control of access distinguishes freeways from other classes of
roadways. Freeways serve large volumes of high -speed traffic and are
primarily intended to serve long trips. In La Porte, S.H. 225 and S.H. 146 are
classified as freeways /state highways.
Although the freeway /state highway classification includes the main lanes of
designated facilities, continuous frontage roads (also termed service roads or
feeders) are more appropriately classified as secondary arterial roadways or
collectors. It is desirable to have another parallel arterial roadway offset one -
half to one mile along either side of a freeway, to provide circulation for
traffic movement along one -way frontage roads. Since these roadways are
state highways, the City's ability to manage these them is limited. While it is
necessary that they continue to serve their intended purpose of conveying
regional traffic, within an urban setting it is important that they also provide
facilities for all users including bike lanes, tree lawns, sidewalks, and transit
facilities.
Primary Arterials
Primary arterials are also intended to carry large amounts of regional traffic.
Within La Porte, the designated primary arterials include Canada Street,
Fairmont Boulevard, Barbours Cut, Bay Area Boulevard, Sens Road, and Old
146 Highway. These arterials are commonly two- to five -lane facilities (in
some cases six) that are designed to accommodate 20,000 to 60,000 vehicles
per day. Access is generally limited along streets of this classification in order
33 , All new and planned subdivisions have, or will have concrete, curb and gutter
streets." La Porte Comprehensive Plan — 2005 Update, Cbj. 5.5a.
34 City of La Porte Public Improvement Criteria Manual, Chapter 6, Paving Design
Criteria, Table 6.1
A CO1v1MUNITY VI SION FOR LA 1'ORTE TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
to preserve their vehicle carrying capacity, but as they enter urbanized
settings implementing access control becomes more challenging.
Secondary Arterials
Secondary arterials are intended to carry less traffic than primary arterials.
Generally, secondary arterials can be anticipated to accommodate 5,000-
30,000 vehicles per day and they are typically fed by collectors, although
local streets may also connect to them. Spencer Highway, Underwood Road,
and the frontage roads along the state highways are good examples of
secondary arterials. Access to these streets from neighboring properties
should be controlled to limit conflicts. Secondary arterial streets should
include bike lanes, tree lawns and street trees, sidewalks and transit
facilities.
Collectors
Collectors are intended to carry fewer trips than minor arterials, but they are
"higher order" roads than local streets. Collector streets can typically be
expected to accommodate 1,000- 15,000 vehicles per day. To adequately
serve their role to collect and distribute traffic from local streets to the
arterial street system, collectors are generally placed between arterial
streets, with a desired spacing of no more than approximately one -half mile.
To maximize mobility it is essential that collector streets traverse adjacent
neighborhoods to provide access and circulation not only within, but also
among, neighborhoods. Access via driveways to individual residential
properties along collectors should be limited. Where numerous residential
driveways exist, the City should require access spacing, on -site turn- arounds,
semi - circular driveways, or alley access (where available) when properties
with direct access to the street are substantially improved or redeveloped.
All collector streets should include bike lanes, tree lawns and street trees,
sidewalks and transit facilities (where necessitated).
Local Streets
Local streets are principally intended to provide access to abutting
properties. Traffic on local streets is generally slow and relatively sparse and
such streets can typically be anticipated to accommodate between 5,000 and
to 100 vehicles per day. Local streets in areas of cut - through traffic are
candidates for traffic calming. Where local streets provide only local access
to adjacent residential developments, narrower streets may be allowed to
reduce the amount of impervious surfaces (to reduce stormwater runoff)
and to slow local traffic through residential areas. Local streets should
include tree lawns, street trees, and sidewalk facilities.
Implementing the Thoroughfare Plan
Implementation of thoroughfare system improvements occurs in stages over
time as the community grows and, over many years, builds toward the
ultimate thoroughfare system shown by the Thoroughfare Plan. The fact that
A COMMUNITY VISION FOR LA T't?RTE, TEXAS - 2010 UPDATE
DRAFT JANUARY 10, 2012
a future thoroughfare is shown on the plan does not represent a
commitment to a specific timeframe for construction or that the City — or
other jurisdiction — will build the roadway improvement. Individual
thoroughfare improvements may be constructed by a variety of
implementing agencies, including the City, Harris County, and /or TOOT, as
well as private developers and land owners for sections of roadways located
within or adjacent to their property. Road construction can be implemented
by individual entities or in partnership.
The City, county, and TOOT, as well as residents, land owners, and
subdividers, can utilize the Thoroughfare Plan in making decisions relating to
planning, coordination, and programming of future development and
transportation improvements. Review of preliminary and final plats for
proposed subdivisions in accordance with the City's development regulations
and Public Improvement Criteria Manuals (PICMs) should include
consideration of compliance with the Thoroughfare Plan in order to ensure
consistency and availability of sufficient rights -of -way for the general
roadway alignments shown on the plan. It is particularly important to
provide for continuous roadways and through connections between
developments to ensure mobility. By identifying thoroughfare locations
where rights -of -way are needed, land owners and subdividers can consider
the roadways in their subdivision planning, dedication of public rights -of-
way, and provision of setbacks for new buildings, utility lines, and other
improvements located along the right -of -way for existing or planned
thoroughfares.
A CO1v1MUNITYVISION FOR LA 1'ORTE TE AS _2010 UPDATE
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