HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-09-05 Study SessionSTUDY SESSION
Monday, May 9, 2005
7:00 p.m. -Council Chambers
Minutes of Meeting
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher called the meeting to order.
Present were Mr. McCash, Mrs. Boring, Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, Ms. Salay, Mr.
Lecklider, Mr. Reiner and Mr. Keenan.
Staff members present included the following: Ms. Brautigam, Ms. Grigsby, Mr. Bird, Mr.
Gunderman, Mr. Combs, Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Hammersmith, Mr. Hahn, Ms. Puskarcik, Ms.
Gilger, Ms. Martin, Mr. Harding.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher noted that tonight's topic is the presentation of the Historic
Dublin Plan by the Historic Dublin team and Leadership Dublin.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the purpose of study sessions is to provide Council
the opportunity to receive more information on a topic than is possible during a regular
Council meeting. Council does not vote on issues at study sessions, although opinions
can be expressed and staff direction given. Typically, public testimony is not taken, but,
in this case, there was some confusion for the Waterford subdivision residents
concerning the purpose of tonight's meeting. Therefore, she has agreed to permit a
couple of representatives from Waterford to share their views tonight.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the Historic Dublin area has been of particular
interest to City Council the last few years, and Council has taken steps to improve the
area. Last year, Council included as one of its goals the continued revitalization of
Historic Dublin. An internal working group was established by the City Manager to work
with a Leadership Dublin team to study the need and develop recommendations for
action.
Ms. Brautigam commended staff members, Mr. Combs, Planning, Ms. Gilger, Economic
Development and Ms. Martin, Engineering for leading the team to create a vision for the
Historic Dublin area.
Ms. Gilger stated that the Historic Dublin working group was charged with the task of
creating a professional and well-contemplated vision for Historic Dublin. The City
Manager challenged the team to "think outside the box," independent of previous studies.
A team from Leadership Dublin worked with City staff to provide their perspective of
issues and opportunities within the Historic District. The resulting vision will provide a
starting point for public discussion, and it will be incorporated into the Community Plan
process. She introduced Jeanie Martin, Engineering, who will address site inventory.
Ms. Martin stated that the team first inventoried the Historic Dublin District, then the team
visited three other communities that have successful historic districts - ~Id Gahanna,
~Id Worthington and Grove City Town Center. In each community, they listed all the
attributes that would be defined as historic district features. Some are architectural
features, such as: roadway arches, signs, planters, light pole banners, close building
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facades, reduced speed limits, separation of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, wide
walkways, airy street trees, awnings and open doors, a continuity of outdoor seating,
pocket parks, brick intersections, business location signs, information kiosks, public open
space -hard space or green space, residential area immediately next to business
district, a good mix of businesses, unique attractions specific to that area, family-friendly
uses, cultural activities, back door access to businesses, business access -- physical and
visual, to the waterfront, waterfront public parks with both passive and active elements.
Mr. Combs, Planning Division, stated that at the beginning of the study process, City staff
did a preliminary identification of the major attributes of the Dublin Historic District, which
were presented at the December 2004 Council study session. Leadership Dublin also
developed a list, which identified essentially the same issues.
Attributes of the Historic District:
• The historic integrity of the District -many of the buildings are listed with the Ohio
Historical Society and the National Register;
• Adjacent water features:
- Indian Run waterfalls is very scenic, but is under-emphasized, not utilized, and
has no public access from the Historic District.
- Indian Run ravine runs between the waterfalls to the Scioto River.
- Scioto River. The public is unaware of the existing park under the bridge,
adjacent to the river. The topography along the river corridor is a challenge to
access, yet people enjoy access to water. The ability to provide places
throughout the district where people can interact would be a benefit to the
District.
- The stream running along the south end of the District into the quarry area.
Although topography challenges due to the quarry and changes in elevation,
there are good viewpoints and opportunities for access.
• The overall architectural quality and variety, covering a broad range of time
periods.
• An overall streetscape character. South High Street has the character initially
identified as Historic Dublin, but there are also elements of the agricultural past,
such as the Karrer property on the south side of the District.
From that preliminary list, staff developed a final analysis by quadrant of the important
elementslissues to be considered.
Northwest Quadrant -North High Street and Bridge Street West
Contains the Indian Run ravine and the split into north and south forks. Access to the
Falls should be created and a park developed in that area that would link into a
regional trail system. Developing those natural features would preserve a greenspace
buffer. This is desirable for environmental reasons, but it would also provide visual and
recreational amenities.
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• The challenge of this quadrant is traffic management. There are places along
Bridge and High streets that do not have adequate pedestrian orientations.
There are a couple of crosswalks scattered along the streets, but there is not a
consistent series of intersections where traffic is stopped and pedestrians have a
defined and absolute crossing. This is a primary issue at the main intersection
of Bridge and High streets. The crosswalks and "noise signals" for pedestrians
are inadequate and do not provide the pedestrian assurance of crossing safety.
• The streetscape should also be enhanced by creating defined edges. The
existing school site in this quadrant provides a campus feel -deep setback from
the road. There is no orientation to the street; it does not encourage traffic to
slow or pedestrian movement. Due to the age of the building, that school will
probably relocate. The City needs to have a plan to develop that area within the
framework of keeping the historic 1919 building.
• Creating a true pedestrian public space on the corner that is defined by
architecture. Although there is a greenspace, it is "sandwiched" between the
three streets and a parking lot. There is no encouragement for pedestrians to
utilize the public space; the benches on the corner are always empty. In order to
make it more pedestrian friendly, it is important to create an edge to define the
space and give a sense of safety.
• Points of traffic conflict -Intersection of Darby/INest Bridge and the alley next to
Tucci's. Due either to traffic turning movements or substandard alley width,
there are definite points of traffic conflict, which impact traffic safety and
pedestrian safety, which need to be studied.
• Library site impact upon streetscape -The building is a suburban layout in the
Historic District. There may be a way to create along-term architectural edge to
the streetscape. There is the opportunity to expand the library. A reevaluation
of the library functions and orientation may present the opportunity to utilize
some parking area to service a variety of uses and to create defined edges
along the streetscape.
• Topographical changes -The topographical change that occurs along the Indian
Run Elementary School property on Bridge Street is presently a constraint that
could present a future opportunity.
Northeast Quadrant
• Need for a formal gateway to identify entering the District. Presently, there is no
awareness of entering the Historic District. There is a need for traffic to
encounter a gateway when crossing the bridge on SR 161.
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• Need for formal crossing points at the alley and at North Street. Elimination of
points of conflict, particularly left turn movements across two lanes of oncoming
traffic. Key areas should be signalized.
• Topography -All the buildings along north High Street must deal with the
topographic change to deal with the parking behind businesses. This is a
significant challenge and limits the ability to maximize the land. Utilizing
efficient parking opportunities and shared parking should be considered.
• Grade Change -There is a significant grade change along South Riverview
Street, dropping off into the floodplain. A lesser change occurs along North
High Street. The ability to provide access to the river, both physically and
visually, is challenged by the sharp floodplain and distance to the river.
Creative designs are needed.
• Long-term, regional connections down to the river - Whether it is an improved
or unimproved trail and the specific location{s} would need to be identified.
• View sheds to river -these should be taken advantage of.
The challenge is to create a strong streetscape presence. When crossing the bridge,
the driver should encounter defined architecture and defined streetscape. These two
quadrants provide the greatest potential far future change.
Southeast Quadrant -- Intersection at Bridge and High streets south to the Karrer Barn
and the south entrance to the District and Bridge Street east across the river to
Riverside Drive. There are distinct changes in topography and any planning and
design are restricted to the framework of the natural environment. There is a
topographical change to the rear of all those buildings. That brings up the issues of
parking efficiency and using small historic parcels to their utmost. There is the need to
look at creative partnerships and the ability to work toward providing more resources
for more people. There is a very defined drop on the floodplain on the east side of
South Riverview Street that dumps right into the river. While this provides the greatest
ability far direct visual access to the river, the property patterns and established
development in that area present challenges. There are additional areas where
additional development could occur - infill residential ar alternative types of housing.
There are also opportunities for small pocket parks and small neighborhood amenities,
such as niches with benches or a neighborhood type of park with access to the river.
Within that framework, the emphasis in the commercial section is to maximize the
amount of parking and encourage business owners to work together. With setback
requirements, two or three property owners can collaboratively provide more parking
for each business than one could provide on their own.
Southwest Quadrant -South High Street and Bridge Street West.
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• Topography Changes -There is a topographical challenge immediate to the
streetscape. When exiting those businesses, there is a 1-1 /2 ft. drop. There is a
need to address streetscape concerns and what those designs should consist of to
accommodate pedestrian traffic more effectively.
• East/West Pedestrian Connectors -Although parking is provided behind the
buildings, there is na pedestrian route to the streetscape. That occurs because the
alleys are so narrow that they can accommodate vehicle traffic but not pedestrian
traffic. The challenge is to provide access from the parking areas behind the
buildings to the streetscape to access multiple businesses.
• Future development potential -The opportunity exists for infill residential in some
areas but also for more significant retail development along the west edge of the
District.
• Architectural presence -Many of the districts they have studied have a continual
change between an architectural edge and open spaces or small plaza spaces.
Providing that presence along Bridge Street would make the area more inviting and
encourage traffic to slow. The ability to create development along the edge to
define a streetscape, the ability to create, provide and define cohesive pedestrian
linkages along the frontages of Bridge Street and the ability to fill in with buildings
and small pocket parks in key places along the streetscape is important.
• Pedestrian crossing points -There is a need to provide very defined pedestrian
crossing points systematically spaced throughout the District. This would
communicate a different vehicle movement throughout the District, giving
precedence to the pedestrians.
• Topographical issues -There are minor issues, but there is a very defined
historical feature to be taken advantage of. That must be done within the
framework of the existing floodplain.
The analysis culminated in a concept plan that addressed all the District quadrants.
The details of that vision follow.
Northwest Quadrant
This quadrant provides the greatest long-term capability for future development in the
District, which begins on the corner of Bridge and High streets. There is a need to
provide the catalyst of defined and programmable public space widely used by the
public for a variety of events, as well as every-day uses. This should occur only with
defined architecture that will create the desire edge to the space.
Along North High Street there is the opportunity to provide pedestrian amenities. They
are looking at potential modifications to the streetscape that would provide a pedestrian
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drop-off zone that could facilitate pedestrian orientation. There is the potential for
targeted infill and expansion of buildings, and there is developable land, which would
foster future commercial expansions.
• Library -There are differing opinions as to whether the Library should be moved
from the District or expanded on this site. Staff believes that the Library has the
ability to generate pedestrian traffic. Currently, the building has a suburban
orientation. However, there is the long-term opportunity to add a variety of
family-friendly uses that would create a synergy that would enhance the use of
the Library. There is the opportunity for expansion with a new architectural
addition that would alter the orientation of the Library with a new front door. This
would create a true streetscape edge and maximize the potential for mixed uses
along the frontage. The opportunity for different uses, public and private plazas,
and shared parking will allow for fulfillment of a variety of design goals.
• Block Concept -Working from this initial block, continue the block concept,
which is not new. It is in the 1997 Community Plan and is something staff and
developers have contemplated over the years in various forms. This plan
includes staff concepts created in 2002. When Council defined revitalization of
Historic Dublin as a goal a few years ago, staff has contemplated how to make
the most out of that area. Some of those concepts are proposed in the overall
master plan: to create a true public space on the corner that is defined by
architecture that starts to create pedestrian spaces around the edge. This will
alter the emphasis from vehicle traffic to pedestrian traffic. The block concept
extends street patterns. There is really a historic block pattern in place; it just
needs to be re-implemented. When looking at access points along Bridge
Street, they are spaced in a consistent pattern. The creation of a true
streetscape is important. Darby Street is now double-fronted -its buildings have
two front doors. Providing shared parking in the center of that block would solve
that problem for all of the buildings around it. It would also establish the pattern
of development that addresses people rather than vehicles. That concept would
be continued along Bridge Street in future development.
• Future Elimination of Indian Run Elementary School Building -The City needs
to identify what its expectations are for future development and include that in
the Community Plan update. Whatever development is considered would
continue the block concept. With the topography change here, there should be
the ability to provide mixed uses of office, commercial and retail around a multi-
level parking structure. Using the advantage of topography in this area to build
this type of parking amenity would not only service this block but would provide
additional parking for spill-over needs from adjacent blocks.
• Keeping the 1919 School Building -Their team contemplated ways to create an
identity for the District. The difficulty is that there is no one place in Historic
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Dublin that truly is civic. The solution they came up with was to locate City Hall
in Historic Dublin. That would create a huge level of foot traffic in order to
facilitate the ability for employees to use the restaurants and other businesses
during the day and to keep a constant level of traffic flowing. Could City Hall be
accommodated within the District? Using the overall size of the projected City
Hall and the associated parking, it would be necessary to have a footprint twice
the dimensions of the Library with two stories - a substantial scale to deal with.
Adequate parking for the projected City Hall building would require a parking lot
footprint 1-1 /2 - 2 times the building footprint. No matter where the City Hall
footprint is placed within the Historic District, it minimizes the opportunity to
create the critical core of retail and mixed uses that is needed to make the
District work long-term. The team recommends long-term use of the 1919
Building, due to its extensive capacity, including a theater, and they considered
various civic uses for the building. The Chamber of Commerce, Convention &
Visitors Bureau and Arts Center do not provide an adequate centralized civic
center far the area, and the opportunity to orient people within the District and to
provide a host of other civic services is not being maximized. Therefore, this
vision proposes locating all those services in one place -the 1919 Building.
Most visitors to the Historic District come from the I-270 corridor, so the Bridge
Street front is the optimum location for a civic center. Using the block pattern,
the civic area would be on Bridge Street, surrounded by a mix of office,
commercial and residential uses. A block pattern allows for multiple points of
access, specific areas of crossing, which provides ease of traffic movement and
safe pedestrian crossings.
Within the northern area, the Indian Run Falls Park and ravine would be
developed to create ease of access, with a regional system of bikeway and
pathway connections along the open space buffer. There would be manicured
and maintained open space for events, edged by a natural, wildflower, prairie
space. This will maintain the integrity of the natural environment corridor, which
does have some endangered plants species.
As with all the other districts, there would be the opportunity to incorporate a mix of
diverse housing -single-family, condominiums, apartments, and second floor lofts
integrated into some commercial structures, which would create a pedestrian core with
foot traffic and a base level of activity far all the businesses.
He showed a conceptual rendering of future North High Street developed according to
this concept. The street would be reconfigured to provide a defined pedestrian drop-off
area with valet and ADA accessibility. This, in itself would calm traffic by forcing it to
slow as it moves through that area. There would also be a defined streetscape with
coherent signage, pedestrian pavers and small pocket park areas between buildings.
This would provide a consistent system of design elements along the street. A visual
cross section of that area suggests travel lanes, the raised table area for the valet drop-
off/pedestrian loading zone, and the orientation of the streetscape using modular brick
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pavers, ornamental wrought iron elements, and simplified signage and other way-
finding techniques.
Northeast Quadrant
This was one of the most challenging areas in the Historic District, as there is a distinct
conflict between commercial and residential. There is a need to create a coherent
streetscape so that movement across the bridge encounters a clearly defined
entranceway to the District. The recurring question is how to facilitate all the parking?
Given the ability to create and foster economic development in that area into a true
core of businesses, the recommendation is to take advantage of the topography and
create a parking deck. They recommend:
• rehab or redevelopment of particular buildings that do not have the proper
orientation or architectural qualities for the street to ensure a cohesive
streetscape
• addition of frontage that mirrors the opposite side of Bridge Street to provide a
sense of enclosure and architectural edge
• use topography to create a parking area that also provides ability for building
footprints and pedestrian spaces that would link to the existing park under the
bridge and provide views of the river and of the scenic bridge itself. To have
primary access to go underneath, to have a building over the top that can be a
mix of diverse residential and new building orientations that also create
additional public spaces. So the buildings would not only share parking
centrally but would also overlook common space that could accommodate
activities or public art and other amenities.
Staff has repeatedly heard that because of the topography, there is an inability for the
commercial buildings in this area to enjoy good visibility. Staffs concept proposes that
in the long term that would turn around; the building footprint would re-develop as high-
end condos. There are spectacular views of the ravine from this building. There is
already a City access easement along the edge of the ravine. There would be the
ability to include residential uses on this site and take advantage of the views.
Southeast Quadrant of the City.
This section in the District is already clearly defined, and the challenge is to work off
the existing development and achieve the most possible. The ability to maximum
visibility and use of the space while respecting and limiting the impact on the existing
residential along S. Riverview is important. That would have to be accomplished by the
bridge and Bridge Street streetscape. An architectural edge could be accomplished by
the use of fill-in architectural along Bridge Street to give a sense of enclosure. Shared
parking would be added along South Blacksmith Alley, which runs along the rear of
these buildings. A defined streetscape that is consistent, has common elements that
tie the elements together, so that there is a clear change in the overall appearance of
the streetscape. Areas would be targeted for future infill development of residential -
along the alley, S. Riverview Street, and the particular property with the most
development potential -- at the south end. There is the ability to add in the state and
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alternative housing types that would take advantage of the elevations and views. As
part of that development, there would be the ability to have limited park space to
provide neighborhood amenities and provide access visibly and physically to the river.
Packet park amenities could be added, which would provide more definition. The 1997
plan proposed to create afull-blown community park in this location, incorporating
mixed uses. Given the overall development pattern, staff does not consider that the
optimum direction to go. Staff recommends that additional housing be integrated that
could service the businesses but still provide some defined level of access. The
feasibility study that was done by Kinzelman/Kline proposed an overlook here, but that
cannot be maximized due to the existing island. It is not the optimal space for a
community park. It would be an area where existing City easements could be utilized
for small amenities, such as benches and landscaping to highlight South Riverview as
a neighborhood. It would be important to continue a consistent streetscape to the
edge of the District, looking at additional infill and opportunities for long-term
expansions or additions to existing businesses. The plan proposes alley closures or
redirection of alleys. Given the streetscape improvements along Bridge Street, it would
be necessary to limit access to South and North Blacksmith Lane to right in and right
out movement. The plan proposes to close the alley next to Biddy's Coach House to
promote a better circulation system through the alleys and to provide for limited east-
west pedestrian connections, which are currently missing. There would also be the
ability to provide a defined midblock pedestrian connector. The ability would be
created for people to park comfortably, astep-out zone for pedestrians, cut limestone
would be used as a consistent streetscape feature within modular planting areas.
There would be the ability for informal seating. The midblock pedestrian connector
would utilize the alley closure with a ADA accessible paved bumpout that incorporates
up-light tiles within the street so that the pedestrian crossings are easily recognizable
at night.
Southwest Quadrant
Awell-defined consistent streetscape would be established, including the consistent
use of an architectural style along the street. A significant architectural issue exists in
the south end of the district with the building at 57 South High. The concept proposes
that the site be re-developed into an alternate use with multiple buildings, which would
enclose a pedestrian plaza or garden that fronts the street. There would be the ability
to reorient parking to the back with ease of access for adjacent buildings. One parking
area could serve many businesses. One of the issues with the entire south end of the
District is that potential parking space is very limited, therefore, wherever there is an
opportunity to include parking, it should be maximized. Mid-block connections will be
provided, alleys will be widened to enable the proper two-way access. One of the
problems with recent streetscape improvements is that two-way alleys that are now only
one-way and they're curbed. The goal would be to provide an alley system that meets
basic standards to improve traffic flow throughout the commercial area. In the south
end, an opportunity exists with the Karrer property. The historic barn would be kept,
due to its historical value and scenic quality. It is already established as a widely
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recognized icon within the area. Its value is enhanced by the open space in front of it,
which provides an agricultural, pastoral feel. To capitalize upon it, the riparian corridor
along the stream would be enhanced with prairie grass and wildflowers. The
surrounding neighborhoods would be able to use this as a passive picnic area.
Coming from the west, there is no real sense of entering a historic district. There is a
school campus area, a limited suburban-style commercial area, and an expansive
cemetery. There is no defined edge or entry point to the district. The concept
proposes to re-develop this area of the District and to look at creating a point at which
historic scale architecture takes over and changes the streetscape immediately.
Buildings would be oriented to the front and utilize shared parking for mixed tenants
behind the buildings. That raises the need to define future land use of the adjacent
area. Additional expansion of the cemetery could provide a service to the community,
but it is not the best use of very valuable commercial land within a historic district. In
addition, continued expansion of the cemetery diminishes the historic integrity of the
original portion of the cemetery. The concept proposes creating a true village
streetscape up to the park and existing cemetery expansion area. Through the
utilization of multi-family, there is the ability to cement a true village streetscape. This
architecture would provide a defined edge to Historic Dublin, which would then open up
to well-defined public spaces, consisting of a village green in front of the 1919 Building
as well as the historic cemetery. There would be a clear pattern of architecture versus
open space and plaza, a consistent streetscape of pedestrian scale.
Bridge Street Design Character
The working group suggests several changes:
• Define the main intersection at Bridge and High streets with a full paver
intersection. In addition to the special emphasis at this intersection, at other
intersections along Bridge Street, paver crosswalks only would be used.
• Between blocks, place medians within the street in which plantings would be
added to the streetscape, providing a sense of canopy and enclosure. This
would give an overhead plane between the sides of the building and over traffic,
which would also slow traffic speeds. In historic districts, there is typically a
speed limit of 25 mph, even when it is a state route.
• Create a consistent streetscape from one end of the District to the other, which
clearly defines the Historic District area. Narrow the pavement width in the area
of the school site. Use consistent, effective signage for pedestrians as well as
motorists. Use of an overall planting palette that will not only provide a canopy
producing filtered light through trees, but to also complement the sidewalk and
the architecture. Add planters or other elements to add color to the streetscape.
• Create a clear entrance to the District. An overhead archway has been over-
used, and it is necessary to be creative. Presently, obelisks exist at all four
entrances to the District, but they are hidden either by orientation or by
landscaping. The concept proposes to use obelisks on the mid-block islands of
Bridge Street at the entrance to the District, uplit at night. Utilize landscaping at
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the North and South High Street entrances. Recognizing limitations with the
topography changes along the ravine and ditches, raise those up so they are
more oriented to the motorists, and provide appropriate landscaping around
them.
• Encourage a broader mix of signage. It is necessary to revise the Code to
permit signage appropriate to the Historic District. This would improve creativity
- complementary signs, awning, umbrellas, store front elements, etc. producing
a more inviting, lively District.
• Use different elements in the pocket parks. Take advantage of the limited
space, instead of hiding it, using creative designs to form pedestrian spaces that
are user-friendly.
• Create additional identity. Use refined streetscape lighting that is more focused
on pedestrians, easy to maintain, consistent throughout the District. There is an
ongoing maintenance issue with the present street lighting. Supplement the
lighting with colorful banners for advertising/messages.
Mr. Combs summarized the presentation, noting that staff was instructed to "think big"
and "think long-term," creating a comprehensive plan far the District looking into the
future. Staff has developed a concept plan that, long-term, would significantly revitalize
the District.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher invited public comment.
Aidan Tuite, 280 Old Spring Lane, stated that he and his wife, Holly, are co-presidents
of the Waterford Village Civic Association. They are concerned about the rental
properties at the north end of Monterey Drive just shy of the intersection with S.R. 161,
which have posed along-standing problem for the residents of Waterford Village.
Dublin is an image-conscious city, yet these properties are an antithesis of the high
ideals of Dublin. Although there have been other less critical appearance issues the
City has sought to address in Waterford Village, such as screening of air conditioners
and the prohibition of play structures, these ill-maintained properties remain
unaddressed. The residents have complained to both staff and City Council - to no
avail; the properties continue to decline annually. Last year, they believed they had
received an answer from City Council. Ms. Salay, Ward 2 representative, attended a
civic association meeting and shared the news that within a year, the City would be
purchasing those properties. The cemetery would be expanded on the east side and
the park on the west side. Several months passed, so they contacted Ms. Salay to
inquire the status of the City's plans. Ms. Salay responded that the City had changed
its plans, and the funds originally targeted for this project had been re-appropriated for
the new Tech Park. The residents of Waterford Village were very unhappy, and 190 of
240 households have signed a petition asking City Council to reconsider the acquisition
of that rental property on behalf of the Waterford Village residents. Ms. Salay
explained the reasoning behind Council's action and they support the City's efforts to
bring in new revenue streams. Ms. Salay shared that the property may already be
under contract with a developer, and even though the original plans for the land were
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the most appealing, another development plan could be acceptable. The residents
request that they be included in the development plans for that area. At a minimum,
they request that the City require the owners of that property to keep it in good repair
and have a greater consciousness of the appearance of that property. In summary,
they humbly request that the City use some of the tax dollars they pay to improve the
appearance of their community.
Jim Borders, 306 Monterey Drive, reiterated Mr. Tuite's comments. The residents hope
for judicious use of that property, if the City should acquire it. At a minimum, they
request that the City impose the same standards that are imposed on the single-family
homeowners in their subdivision on the owners and residents of the rental property.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that there have been previous discussions of Council
regarding the property in question, as Council shares the residents' concerns regarding
the appearance of this property. They have requested the City Manager to direct
Code Enforcement to regularly inspect and address issues with this property. She has
noticed some improvements recently. She added that the City must prioritize its
projects. When the City moves forward on a costly acquisition/project, some other
projects must inevitably be tabled for the short term, or until the funding is available.
Acquisition of that property never rose to a #1 priority. Certainly, enforcement of
maintenance standards is possible. She asked the City Manager to clarify which areas
the City has jurisdiction for action.
Ms. Brautigam responded that these properties are duplexes, and they are pre-existing
uses -they have been there a long time. Although the City cannot impose landscaping
or beautification requirements, the City can require compliance with any applicable
building codes. The City's Code Enforcement officer is very aware of the public's
concerns and inspects the property regularly. Mr. Janes has informed her that the
owners are very aware of their rights. Although they may not be the most neighbor-
friendly property owner, they stand firmly on their rights, and remain narrowly in
compliance with City Code.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the City has been informed that the property may
be in contract. If so, the City's policy is to involve neighboring civic associations in
planning discussions whenever applications for development are received. In that
case, Mr. Bird and his staff would be in contact with the Waterford Village Civic
Association. She thanked the residents for sharing their concerns. She invited Council
members' comments or additional directions.
Ms. Salay complimented staff on an impressive concept plan. She inquired how the
proposed redevelopment would work where it involves Dublin City Schools property.
Mr. Combs responded that the School District is a separate entity, and, as regards
development, the City looks at Dublin City Schools essentially as a private developer.
Dublin City Council Study Session
Monday, May 9, 2005
Page 13
At some point in time when their facilities age to the point that they no longer meet the
expectations of the School District, they would potentially sell the facility to a developer
for a profit and pursue a replacement facility. At that point in time, the City should have
determined if they would have no objections to development on the site or if the City
would have a use for the site.
Ms. Salay stated that in the northeast quadrant, the City owns land along the river.
Does the City have conceptual plans for that land?
Mr. Combs responded Dublin Spring Park lies under the bridge. The City owns the two
parcels to the north of the park, one or two parcels north of that, and the house on the
corner and its rear lot. Although the City owns that area, it is of limited value. At the
end of North Riverview Street, there is the historic stonewall, then the land drops to the
floodplain below. There is no developable, buildable land, so, considering the tree
canopy and the topography, how can the view be maximized? The concept plan
suggests a higher deck at the same level as Bridge Street that would provide views of
the river and provide amenities perched over the top of North Riverview Street's access
to a lower level parking area.
Ms. Salay stated that, for the first time, the Community Plan recognizes South
Riverview Street as a residential community and talks about preserving it as such. It
even provides for a park in that area. There has been unease among the residents for
years due to various uses that had been discussed for that part of the District. The
residents will appreciate that the City's plan settles that issue.
Ms. Salay stated that the intersection at Bridge and N. High Street is a particularly busy
intersection, particularly during the peak hour when Emerald Parkway businesses close
for the day -- the traffic backs up. Staff has recommended narrowing the existing
pavement and making the area more pedestrian-friendly, but it is still necessary to
move traffic. How are these two opposing goals accomplished on High Street?
Mr. Combs responded that there must be a balance of the two. The City of
Worthington, for instance, pushes through a high volume of traffic through their historic
district daily. Dublin must take advantage of the pedestrian space that is there and
maximize the feel in those spaces. It will always be necessary to provide for a base
level of traffic there, but long term, the City anticipates road usage to alter, and fewer
vehicles would be using that intersection.
Ms. Salay stated that Dublin is a community of ideas and opinions. How does staff
foresee the public input process going forward?
Mr. Combs stated that staff would take direction from Council. This is a specific area
plan and public input meetings will be scheduled. This concept plan would serve as a
base for discussion in those meetings.
Dublin City Council Study Session
Monday, May 9, 2005
Page 14
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher requested that staff include the dates of the public input
meetings along with the calendar requested earlier.
Mr. Combs stated that he would forward the dates to Council. He believes one public
input meeting was scheduled in June, and another in early fall.
Mr. Keenan stated it is evident that a tremendous amount of thought went into this plan,
and a rational explanation was provided for everything that was proposed. The key is
how to take this vision and turn it into action. Plans for the northwest quadrant include
a large amount of residential and a future location for City Hall. He believes that
location of City Hall on that site could create a synergy and a critical mass of people for
the Historic District during the daytime. He does not understand how residential could
create a similar synergy.
Mr. Combs displayed a rendering of the entire District. Looking at the other districts,
there are clearly areas of solidified residential along South High Street, South
Riverview Streets, and Waterford Village. On the other side, there is Indian Run Falls
and the ravine, and there is no tie between the two. When considering the possible
relocation of City Hall to the District, bath the scale of the building and the associated
parking would eliminate the possibility of commercial development and the additional
parking it would require.
Mr. Keenan responded that the same argument could be made for the potential
expansion of the Library. The present library is the same as was there when there was
only one high school. Although expanding the library would attract more people, it
would also exacerbate the parking problem.
Mr. Combs responded that the library is already established including a given amount
of land, which would accommodate an adjacent expansion. When looking at a new City
Hall, there was the building, pedestrian spaces, and parking to consider. For atwo-
story building and the level of parking needed, it may be necessary to look at a parking
deck or structure to consolidate space. It is not possible to have sufficient surface
parking to accommodate a City Hall and all the commercial uses that are proposed to
go in there long term.
Ms. Gilger stated in considering a City Hall versus residential, staff considered the
economic development factor. It is desirable for the District to be viable in the evenings
and weekends as well as the workweek. The Library has evening and weekend hours,
and families utilize that service. City Hall does not, and to take such a large expanse of
land for aMonday -Friday use was not justified.
Dublin City Council Study Session
Monday, May 9, 2005
Page 15
Mr. Reiner thanked staff for a great job. Because this is a concept, and many changes
could occur after public input, he will forgo questions about specific issues until the
revised plan comes to Council.
Mr. McCash commended staff on a great job.
Mrs. Boring reiterated Council's appreciation of staff's outstanding work. She
expressed agreement with Mr. Keenan's wish that more City Hall buildings could be
incorporated into the plan.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher expressed agreement with other Council members'
preference to re-think the location of City Hall. Many cities are becoming creative in
meeting parking needs via parking structures; Dublin could do so as well. Surface
parking is almost passe today bath in new communities and in those experiencing
renovations. She expressed concern about the reason for not expanding the Dublin
Cemetery - it would not be an appropriate economic use of the valuable land. She
suggested that the City may be doing a disservice to its citizens in assuming that their
first and foremost wish is that all land use be determined from an economic
development perspective. This is the only City cemetery Dublin has, and Council has
received many citizen requests that the cemetery be expanded to accommodate a
loved one who lived in this community. It is nearly always easier to expand where
something already exists than to consider finding a new site for additional growth.
Previous Councils, as well as this one, have indicated lack of interest for construction
of a new cemetery site. Another comment in the presentation was that a cemetery
would detract from the integrity of the Historic District. On the contrary, the history of a
community is in that cemetery. The Dublin Cemetery is very interesting because of the
historical elements it contains. The newer section reflects same of the most dramatic,
history-making deaths of Ohio. She requested that staff reconsider that part of the
plan.
Mr. Lecklider inquired what happened to the southern half of North Riverview. It is not
included on the plan.
Mr. Carson responded that staff debated how to add good commercial development
and provide access to the river and linkages to all those amenities. Taking along-term
view, on South Riverview Street, there are a host of National Register buildings.
However in the northeast quadrant, there are few residential homes remaining, and
many of those are now tenant-occupied. Vltith the topography issues and the
narrowness of the alley, there is the constant issue of insufficient parking far business
patrons in that quadrant. The concept is that in 30-50 years, this entire street would be
commercially redeveloped. The emphasis would be on solidifying what happens
commercially along the street, and looking at providing better access and parking
amenities. The concept limits the residential cohesiveness in this particular area,
Dublin City Council Study Session
Monday, May 9, 2005
Page 16
keeping the National Register home, then builds off the pedestrian space to build
parking space for the quadrant.
Mr. Lecklider stated that amulti-level parking structure is conceptualized here, as in the
northwest quadrant. Did the Team address potential ways in which to finance those
projects?
Mr. Combs responded that they did not. There are multiple ways - it could be
developer driven or City driven. The team worked on the vision only, and did not
address the methods that could be used to implement it.
Mr. Lecklider stated that in the northwest quadrant, the plan appeared to address the
parking issue through large parking lots. Was there any intent to incorporate parallel
parking along the streets?
Mr. Combs responded that in that quadrant there would be on-street parking capability.
Regarding parking lots, that is the traditional, downtown central parking within the block
pattern. With the typography change, the existing Indian Run Elementary overflow
parking lot seemed to be a logical site on which to place tiered parking within a building
or commercial retail facade around it.
Mr. Lecklider expressed agreement with the idea of slowing traffic in this District, but
what impact would 2-3 additional traffic signals on West Bridge Street have on
eastbound traffic? Did the City Engineer have input in this plan?
Mr. Combs responded that they did not seek management input. Their instructions
were that at this point, the Team should work independently, utilizing staff from different
departments. Two engineers did provide input to the Team. The Team incorporated
Engineering standards only.
Mr. Lecklider stated that he is not presently opposed to the location of the City Hall
complex in the Historic Dublin. However, tonight he was impressed with the amount of
asphalt that would be incorporated into the Historic District if that were to occur. There
are good points on both sides of the issue.
Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher reminded everyone that this is a concept, a vision for 40
years into the future. The public hearings will be publicized and civic associations
notified of that date.
The meeting was formally adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Clerk of Council