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Ordinance 22-11RECORD OF ORDINANCES Blank, Inc. Ordinance No. 22 -11 Passed 20_ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 2007 DUBLIN COMMUNITY PLAN TO INCORPORATE THE ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE (EAZ) PLAN AS A REFINEMENT OF THE U.S. 33 CORRIDOR AREA PLAN FOR AREAS SOUTH OF S.R. 161 / POST ROAD (CASE NO. 11- 010ADM) WHEREAS, the City of Dublin strives to preserve and enhance the unique high quality of life, community character and fiscal well -being offered to those who live or work in the community; and WHEREAS, the City of Dublin seeks to manage growth and adapt to changes that result from the demand for corporate offices, high technology industries and homes; and WHEREAS, the Community Plan is a flexible planning document that is meant to guide the City in planning decisions; and WHEREAS, the Economic Advancement Zone Plan, as a refinement of the Dublin Community Plan, provides future land use, character and infrastructure planning direction for areas generally west of U.S. 33 designated for office, research and technology development; and WHEREAS, the City of Dublin seeks to preserve the public health, safety and welfare by managing the City's growth environment and ensuring that additional growth does not adversely affect the community; and WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the Ordinance on April 21, 2011, and recommends the adoption of the Ordinance because it serves to improve the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the City of Dublin. NOW, T EREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by Council of the City of Dublin, State of Ohio, of the elected members concurring that: Section 1 . The Economic Advancement Zone Plan be adopted as an amendment and further refinement to the U.S. 33 Corridor Area Plan as part of the 2007 Dublin Community Plan to provide a more detailed planning guide for development in that portion of the City. Section 2. Figure 3.13 (page 150) of the 2007 Dublin Community Plan entitled "U.S.33 Corridor Area" be modified to reference the Economic Advancement Zone Plan. Section 3. This Ordinance shall take effect on the earliest date provided by law. Passed this A3 Vc( day of V � 20111 If Mayor — Pr i ' g Officer ATTEST: t.J d- Clerk of Council CITY OF DUBLIN_ Office of the City Manager 5200 Emerald Parkway • Dublin, OH 43017 -1090 Phone: 614 - 410 -4400 • Fax: 614 - 410 -4490 To: Dublin City Council From: Marshal. Grigsby, City Manager Date: May 19, 2011 Memo Initiated By: Dana McDaniel, Deputy City Manager /Director of Economic Development Re: Ordinance 22 -11 - Amending the 2007 Dublin Community Plan to Incorporate the Economic Advancement Zone Plan (Case 11- O10ADM) Update Ordinance 22 -11 was introduced at the May 9, 2011 City Council meeting. Council members had some questions at that time and requested clarifications. The following minor changes have been made to the document in response: • Further technical review of the document has been completed to update pictures and provide formatting and grammatical enhancements. • Mapping elements have been modified, based on public input, to relocate dashed portions of Shier Rings Road from near Eiterman Road to Cosgray Road. (This modification was highlighted during the May 9, 2011, City Council meeting as enhancing long -term access to the Shier Oaks neighborhood.) Recommendation Planning and Economic Development recommend City Council approval of Ordinance 22 -11 at the second reading/public hearing on May 23, 2011. Office of the City Manager 5200 Emerald Parkway • Dublin, OH 43017 -1090 CM OF DUBLIN- Phone: 614- 410 -4400 • Fax: 614 - 410 -4490 To: Dublin City Council From: Marsha I. Grigsby, City Manager `A�-_ Date: May 5, 2011 Memo Initiated By: Dana L. McDaniel, Deputy City Manager /Director of Economic Development Re: Ordinance 22 -11 - Amending the 2007 Dublin Community Plan to Incorporate the Economic Advancement Zone Plan (Case 11- 010ADM) Summary Ordinance 22 -11 will amend the 2007 Community Plan to incorporate an area plan for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). This area plan is intended to further describe the area originally designated as the zoning for the Central Ohio Innovation Districts. The first phase of the EAZ Area Plan included an extensive process to engage interested property owners, developers and residents. The resulting plan received many positive comments from the Planning and Zoning Commission at their reviews on April 7, 2011 and April 21, 2011, at which time it was recommended for adoption to City Council. The plan will serve as a planning and marketing tool that will detail major development expectations for the area. The plan builds on previous work conducted through the Community Plan and, once adopted, will be implemented by updating the existing COIC District Code and City- sponsored area rezoning request. Plan Description Background Information (pp. 1 -18) These sections include information on the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor, the EAZ, the public process used to generate the plan, and goals for the area. Land Use (pp. 19 -27) Land use for the EAZ includes a multi- tiered approach to research and technology development; Office Research, Research Flex, Research Manufacturing/Assembly, and Mixed Use Tech. Two special areas are denoted, Research Support Services and Mixed Residential. • The Research Office zone includes areas proximate to U.S. 33 that are most visible to the freeway and have greater access. Development in this area is expected to include more multi- story office development with a higher level of architectural detail. • Areas farther west with second tier Research Flex sites that have moderate access are expected to focus on flex development that will include more modest, lower- profile buildings that accommodate a mix of office, laboratory and clean manufacturing space. • Western areas of the EAZ closest to Houchard Road focus on Research Manufacturing/Assembly with components of research that include greater proportions of clean manufacturing and assembly with the potential for larger high bay facilities. • Areas closest to Darree Fields are also designated as Mixed Use Tech and will include options Memo re. Ord. 22 -11 - Economic Advancement Zone Plan May 5, 2011 Page 2 of 3 for a mix of housing and office options that will allow employees to live and work within the EAZ. • A Research Support Zone is also denoted around interchange areas where options for future retail and other employee amenities have the greatest potential for success, based on traffic patterns and levels. To augment the various land use categories and architecture, a Height Regulating Plan is also included that will provide general limits to development height based on proximity to major arterials, freeways and existing residential areas. Access and Circulation (pp. 28 -36) Roadway planning for the EAZ includes a Transportation Plan focused on a hierarchy of three roadway types: arterials (similar to Emerald Parkway), internal collectors (similar to Eiterman Road through Ballantrae) and neighborhood streets. The plan identifies the major road network for the area and establishes general phasing for the area. Key elements of the plan include: • Creating a U.S. 33 reliever that will link Emerald Parkway to Marysville and provide greater access and development potential for internal portions of the EAZ; Downgrading portions of Shier Rings Road between Eiterman Road and Cosgray Road as more residential in nature and establishing a new entrance to Darree Fields in conjunction with area development; and • Creating an east -west reliever along SR 161 that will also disperse trips through the EAZ. The plan also includes a series of dashed road connections on Shier Rings Road, through Darree Fields, on Eiterman Road and west from Fishel Drive that can be considered, depending upon future development and identified need. Transit Options (pp. 37 -44) The EAZ Plan focuses on providing flexibility to incorporate future transit options if and when the need arises in the future. The plan includes a phased approach that begins with the extension of COTA routes west from the hospital area. As the area develops, a major transit spine would be encouraged through the Perimeter Drive corridor that will link the EAZ with the Bridge Street Corridor Area. Over time, if passenger rail options develop, the spine can be extended long -term to the west to link with a future transit station. The spine can be upgraded as development and traffic levels necessitate from a regular bus circulator to rapid bus, to bus rapid transit and eventually to light rail within the roadway design. Utilities and Broadband (pp. 45 -52) The plan builds on existing networks and includes plans for the extension of public utilities and broadband. Greenways and Bikeways (pp. 53 -59) The EAZ Plan outlines future bikeway and open space systems for the area that will provide comprehensive pedestrian and bicycle connectivity. The EAZ is specifically targeted to provide a full range of bicycle options for recreation and commuting needs. Major arterials and local connectors will incorporate bike lanes throughout the area, and multi -use paths and bike routes will augment the area. The plan provides greenways consistent with the regional philosophy in the Memo re. Ord. 22 -11 - Economic Advancement Zone Plan May 5, 2011 Page 3 of 3 Dublin Community Plan and identifies a future multi -use bridge connection across U.S. 33 that will enhance pedestrian connectivity across the freeway. Architecture (pp. 60 -80) Architecture in the EAZ focuses on a more contemporary style that will match the area's emphasis on technology and innovation. The plan outlines the key elements that comprise a contemporary style, and identifies four major building typologies that will be expected to meet the various needs of research - related companies. Special design considerations are provided for larger buildings, and a series of architectural elements are provided as potential design options that can be integrated as part of the general style for the area. Portions of the plan relating to architecture will be used to determine appropriateness as part of the approval process for the EAZ. Landscape Character (pp. 81 -83) Landscape character for the EAZ includes a focus on naturalized plantings that coordinate with surrounding open space amenities such as the Glacier Ridge Metro Park. Both public and private space design is encouraged to use lower- maintenance plantings focused on deciduous trees, shrubs and grasses. The plan provides general guidelines for both landscape design and general site planning elements. Other Character Elements (pp. 84 -89) The plan addresses other key image and character elements that are important to establishing a clear sense of arrival and identity for the EAZ. The section maps fixture gateways and public art locations, as well as identifying concepts for entry way signs and streetscape elements that coordinate with the larger landscape and architectural themes. Implementation (pp. 90 -95) The implementation section includes specific action items that should be addressed to carry out the various elements of the EAZ Plan. The plan addresses other action items to work with property owners, developers and other key areas to ensure that Dublin's efforts to encourage development in the area are successful. Recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the EAZ Plan on April 7, 2011 and April 21, 2011. Minor changes were made to address clarifications and editing. Major additions to the plan include coordination between the plan and work completed by the Bicycle Advisory Task Force. The Commission responded positively to the proposed plan, noting that the document includes a great deal of planning insight that will benefit this area of the city. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the EAZ Plan to City Council at its April 21, 2011 meeting. Recommendation Planning recommends City Council approve Ordinance 22 -11 at the second reading/public hearing on May 23, 2011. Advancing the future of ideas and entrepreneurial spirit in Central Ohio. ���NMW ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Economic Advancement Zone Plan was made possible through the efforts and contributions of many different individuals and organizations. Many public meetings were held as part of the planning process, and a significant contribution of time and effort was made by area residents and policy makers. The following participants are recognized for their contributions to help implement the vision of the EAZ and the larger Central Ohio Innovation Corridor: Project Staff Carson Combs, AICP, ASLA, Senior Planner/ Long Range Projects Manager Jonathan Papp, Planner I Dublin City Council Cathy Boring Marilee Chinnici - Zuercher Richard Gerber Mike Keenan Tim Lecklider — Mayor John Reiner Amy Salay —Vice Mayor Support Staff Justin Goodwin, AICP, Planner II Dan Phillabaum, AICP, ASLA, Senior Planner Jennifer Rauch, AICP, Planner II Planning and Zoning Commission Joseph Bubble Warren Fishman Chris Amorose Groomes — Chair John Hardt Amy Kramb Richard Taylor —Vice Chair Todd Zimmerman Consulting Support ACP Visioning +Planning, Columbus, Ohio Caymus Real Estate, LLC, Columbus, Ohio Gary Bumpus, Columbus, Ohio James Schirtzinger Design Consulting, Orlando, Florida Solove Real Estate Insights, Westerville Ohio b ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE CONTENTS O1 . Overview & Purpose ............................................................ ............................... 1 02 . The Planning Process .......................................................... ..............................7 03. Analyzing Potential for the EAZ ........................................... ............................... 11 04. Outlining Opportunities in the EAZ ..................................... ............................... 15 05. Providing Land Use Direction ............................................. ............................... 19 06. Facilitating Access and Circulation ..................................... ............................... 29 07. Incorporating Transit Options ............................................. ............................... 37 O8. Establishing the Groundwork ............................................. ............................... 45 09. Emphasizing the Cutting Edge ........................................... ............................... 49 10. Establishing Bikeways and Green Connections ..................... ............................... 53 11. Creating Architectural Identity ........................................... ............................... 61 12. Establishing a Landscape Language ................................... ............................... 81 13. Paying Attention to Detail .................................................. ............................... 85 14. Implementing the Vision .................................................... ............................... 91 c I11 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE 01. OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE Only a few years ago, policy makers were asked to visualize what the area along U.S. 33 and the Post Road interchange would look like in the future. With that initial discussion, the generation of ideas and planning for the future of the Economic Advancement Zone began in earnest. Today's plan serves as a framework for future development. Considering all aspects of planning, the EAZ Plan provides clear expectations to the development community and serves as an implementation guide for policy makers. Dublin as part of the Central Ohio region Strategically located at the juncture of U.S. 33 and 1 -270, Dublin is one of Ohio's fastest growing cities. Growing from obscurity in less than three decades, Duhlin is home to over 41.000 residents estimated 65,000 jobs that are focused on administration, technology, science, health and information. With a national reputation for quality development and managed growth. Duhlin is located in the Midwest Overview and Purpose 1 / The Central Ohio Innovation Corridor U N 1 0 N C 0 U N T Y > I> z'z p �p O O U U z I z O I _ J � I Y p ' z Q I Q � I � 4 s z SELIS MT�� 2"ARKWAY I� ► < I g TARq VE QQ - • ncT c O WOERNER TEMPL tip- ip- 'IKE RINGS ROAD � I U l- 1 I - Economic Advancement Zone j Q Central Ohio Innovation Corridor Streams / River - -- I NNNNNNNN Highways J j Roads + Railways County Boundary Oo City of Dublin II l i 2 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE II NTILE CROSSING �J n � O x I RON ROAD Rp`1 B pnnn O r R0AD � �; MAI7nN ROAD II Al E ROAD o _ A -- NK", -\\M\\RMN\ The Central Ohio Innovation Corridor (COIC) Encompassing most of Dublin's story development. The recent shift of employment core along 1 -270 and urban growth inside 1 -270 within the COIC U.S. 33, the Central Ohio Innovation coupled with recent economic change Corridor is home to most of Dublin's has resulted in a need to reconsider the major corporations and technology - based firms. The COIC is geographically divided into seven different business neighborhoods based upon the general character of development, focus on particular businesses types, various zoning regulations, development review processes and future planning efforts. Initial planning for the EAZ portion of the Corridor focused on higher- intensity, urban growth characterized by multi- The COIC is host to seven identified business neighborhoods that form the backbone of Central Ohio's second largest economy. style and form of development in the EAZ. Current market conditions are pushing toward smaller office and laboratory space on relatively small sites. In order to ensure that the COIC can accommodate any business need from large to small, plans for the EAZ will balance the urban form of the Bridge Street area with market demands for suburban development that can be quickly approved. The EAZ includes over 1,100 acres of highly developable land within the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor. Overview and Purpose 3 �j Administrative development approval within the EAZ provides "Quick -to- Build" development and complements other traditional zoning processes found in Dublin. The Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) The Economic Advancement Zone is a critical component of the COIC. Located at the west end of the Corridor along U.S. 33, the EAZ is Dublin's targeted area for future technology - related development. With Dublin projected by the Mid Ohio Regional Planning Commission to be a major driver of future growth within Central Ohio, the EAZ provides the capability for new employment on par with that of downtown Columbus. The EAZ includes over 1,100 acres of largely undeveloped land that provides enormous opportunity for future growth. Dublin's traditional use of Planned District zoning to obtain high quality development has resulted in a very successful suburban employment center. The city is also widely known for its planning and ability to act with speed to address economic opportunity. With growing regional competition and Dublin's efforts to look beyond Central Ohio to drive growth, the EAZ has been targeted for administrative approval of development proposals. With a focus on clear regulations and fast turnaround, this portion of the COIC emphasizes a "Quick -to- Build" philosophy intended to foster construction activity optimally in one month. The ability to address the needs of the private market, particularly those focused on research and time- sensitive grant funding, make the EAZ a unique component of the City's economic development options. 4 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Dublin's Efforts in the EAZ Over the past decade, the City of Dublin has concentrated significant investment in the Economic Advancement Zone and surrounding areas. Starting with a funding partnership with the Franklin County Metro Parks to acquire over 1,000 acres of parkland just north of the EAZ, many important projects have been addressed to establish a high level of amenities and development quality that will benefit future development. Acquiring 175 key acres at the U.S. 33 / SR 161 Interchange and along Post Road to control development and provide direct availability of sites; Obtaining Job Ready Site status for municipal properties within the EAZ to enhance marketability; Commitment of funds to facilitate interchange improvements at U.S. 33 and Post Road / SR 161 as a major gateway to the EAZ; Establishment of the Dublin Entrepreneurial Center (DEC) as an incubator and business start -up facility; Providing key water and sewer extensions to encourage annexation; Donating land for the development of future electric facilities; Completion of a new 2- million gallon water tank to enhance service and facilitate the removal of the Post Road tank for redevelopment; Establishing a public - private partnership to construct the Ballantrae residential development and the Golf Club of Dublin as an open space amenity for the public; and Investment in park amenities at Darree Fields, such as the Miracle Field, soccer facilities and other recreation amenities. j Improvements to the U.S. 33 / SR 161 interchange will help optimize mobility for businesses. Overview and Purpose 5 The Role of the EAZ Plan The 2007 Dublin Community Plan outlined the importance of the Economic Advancement Zone as a "...key employment and service center for the City that should include high quality development with strong gateway treatments and overall design features that exemplify the office and technology focus of the area." The EAZ Plan is intended to clearly define that development goal for the area. While the Community Plan emphasized much broader policy direction, the EAZ Plan is focused specifically on the following key elements: Clearly defining future development patterns and character for the area in a manner that provides clear direction to the development community; Using the Plan as a supplemental guide to support the EAZ's administrative zoning for coordinated growth with speed; Defining future infrastructure extensions and establishing a means to proactively program key elements to speed growth; Using the Plan as a framework for development -ready zoning that will encourage entrepreneurship and innovation: and Providing quality planning information that will support marketing efforts for the EAZ. Quality planning and Dublin's direct contributions in the EAZ will help foster the success of private development. 6 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE THE PLANNING PROCESS The Economic Advancement Zone Plan was developed through public input spanning many years. The goal of the EAZ Plan was to meaningfully build from work encapsulated in the 2007 Dublin Community Plan. Years of effort by area residents, businesses and other stakeholders in developing the city -wide plan created a foundation for which the EAZ Plan provides additional detail and refinement. Using public comment from the Community Plan as a starting point, the process for the EAZ included direct property owner dialogue, neighborhood input and broader public comment. Community Plan Involvement As part of the three -year public input component of the 2007 Dublin Community Plan, many public workshops and area plan meetings specific to the Economic Advancement Zone were conducted to identify area issues and concerns. Results of the input focused on a desire to provide comprehensive pedestrian and greenway connectivity, as well as ensuring that the research- oriented development envisioned for the area would appropriately transition in scale to residential neighborhoods. Participants also identified a desire to properly manage employment traffic and to minimize impacts on existing residential The Planning Process 7 Jan 2010 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan 2011 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Adopted 2007 Dublin Community Plan Preliminary Development Scenario Inventory and Analysis Land Use Concept Refinements Land Use Scenario Development Selection of Preferred Scenario and Refinements Additional Plan Refinements Completion of Draft Plan Final Refinements Review and Adoption \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \\ E\ Property Owner Il l Neighborhood Interaction Public Briefings As part ofa More delzoed planning wradeanen for properties wof in the EAz personalised hearings were wM noted with bay owners In the planning area most Impacted by future development and the eeenson of significant element of supporting In frastructure olsuslmrs hosted the aenilfioseen of figure expectations far properties identifying planning issues brat could be add rescd byte phn.and reviewing d raft concept Dialogue will wnenic after the plan is complete to promote the EAZ and ind ividual properties to the Central oblo region and beyond. The relghberMeds of Bahanteeand Shier Cal will be most mrechyaffected by future growth In the EAZ Using the Comm unity Plan prates as a starting paint whim identified major resident concerns. the EAZ prates Included further dialogue to provide updates and Such add banal com hand Presentations to resident asserciabons nsIghmmood meeangs an key pelnt In the prates provided Important interaction The public paces also included a series of mailings and email correspondence to ensure that interested parties were given even opportunity to provide Input As rated the EAZ prates, a series at presrAZema and informational memos were provided N Ll[ Council and the Planning and ZoningCbmmisbn. Tha=t periodic interactions conveyed the growing direction etthe plan and general emellnes for it completion. The Pennine Pmew Web Access As part of efforts to provide greater transparency, a project page was established on the City's website to provide project materials to the public for ongoing interaction and input. The project page at www.dublin.oh.us /planning /eaz/ included timelines and meeting information, draft plan materials and results from the public process. Continual updates allowed the public to know the status of the project at any moment. cOlc Public Input Meeting Economic Advancement Zone Public Open Houses As part of the EAZ process, a series of public open houses were held to obtain additional feedback and direction for the general goals and planning direction for the area. A forum in November 2010 provided an opportunity to discuss planning objectives and to further identify issues and concerns important to the Plan's outcome. Resulting development concepts were also studied as part of the process to develop a preferred scenario that incorporated planning solutions that consider specific issues, as well as the larger context. �1 Wednesday, December 15 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.�_ Dublin Service Center 6555 Shier Rings Road s Dublin, Ohio 43016 Public Review and Adoption Following completion of the final draft document, the Planning and Zoning Commission conducted review meetings at which the public was invited to provide additional comment on the Plan. On April 21, 2011, the Commission provided a positive recommendation to City Council noting that the EAZ Plan is a very well thought out project. City Council reviewed the work derived from the public process and adopted the Economic Advancement Zone Plan on May 23, 2011. 10 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE 0.*',: ANALYZING POTENTIAL FOR THE EAZ The EAZ comprises the western extent of future commercial expansion and outward development for the City of Dublin. Considering the defined area of the Economic Advancement Zone stretching from Shier Rings Road on the south to the SR 161 / Post Road area to the north, Dublin's adopted Community Plan took a much broader view that extended up the U.S. 33 Corridor. Given the sheer size and scale, the adopted plan created a very generalized framework of land use patterns and schematic road layouts. Additional planning work around the U.S. 33 / SR 161 interchange also centered on specific development proposals that drove surrounding uses, roads and infrastructure. As part of the EAZ, consideration of new development options and the potential to encourage growth beyond the interchange area requires further analysis to identify key opportunities and constraints. Analyzing Potential for the EAZ 11 The EAZ includes two major interchages near 1 -270 to maximize access. Getting You There Primary access to the EAZ is provided off U.S. 33 at the Avery /Muirfield and SR 161 / Post Road interchanges. With proximity to 1 -270, businesses can get to key points around Central Ohio with ease. Avery Road provides arterial access at the east end of the EAZ linking the planning area with Hilliard to the south and accessing the majority of Dublin's residential development to the north. SR 161 also creates the northern edge of the EAZ and provides easy access from the Plain City area. Dublin's Thoroughfare Plan identifies the importance of these roads, and many improvements have already been planned. Most significant is the City's approved interchange design at U.S. 33 / SR 161 and regional efforts led by Dublin to begin study and design for improving the 1 -270 / U.S. 33 interchange. The EAZ primarily consists of an existing network of township roads that are yet to be improved. The character of these roads provides a unique opportunity to consider a new network for improved access and development potential. Providing a system that will protect neighborhoods while establishing the greatest access and mobility possible can benefit future companies and employees in the EAZ In addition to interstate access, the presence of the CSX railroad along the western edge also provides opportunities to move goods and supplies. 12 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Getting a Feel for the Area The EAZ includes a wide variety of uses. Ranging from agriculture to older industrial businesses, office or research uses, the EAZ is poised for growth along Dublin's periphery. The area includes very flat, open land that creates a high visibility with the capability for long viewsheds. The physical character of the EAZ provides opportunities for greater corporate awareness with options for design considerations to appropriately buffer and screen support functions. Located on the western edge of Dublin adjacent to the wide open farm fields of Madison and Union Counties, wind creates an opportunity to consider renewable energies and alternative heating and cooling methods. Portions of the South Fork Indian Run and Cosgray Creek flow through the EAZ. While these streams are insignificant in appearance and may be periodically dry, they serve an important function for the area's drainage. As no more than agricultural ditches, portions of the creeks have been tiled over and provide opportunity for relocation and naturalization as amenities. The area's heavy clays and flat topography foster seasonal ponding and flooding, but are easily addressed with basic engineering. In total, the EAZ provides a blank slate for growth that can help facilitate Dublin's desire to develop with ease. The City of Dublin owns nearly 100 interchange acres ready for development. Analyzing Potential for the EAZ 13 Providing the Basics Dublin is widely known for its ability to plan for and provide infrastructure in a manner that fosters coordinated growth. Many utilities are located within the area, and the City of Dublin has completed capacity analyses as part of the 2007 Dublin Community Plan to ensure the area will be adequately supported at build -out. Many projects such as water and sewer extensions, dedication of land for electric substations and the construction of a new water tower have been proactively completed to ensure the needs of business are met. The EAZ area includes the ability to address a comprehensive system of water, sewer, electric, gas, fiber and other support services that will augment current infrastructure and coordinate with road networks. As part of this effort, the City has proactively reached out to private utilities so that new capacity can be added for businesses. Searching for Identity Located in a transitional area, the EAZ includes a mix of architectural types ranging from contemporary offices to ranch -style churches and one -story industrial construction. Strategically located at the northwest gateway to Dublin, opportunities are available to create a sense of arrival and unique appearance. Recent construction of the Dublin Methodist Hospital provides the most identifiable character element in the immediate area. This potential to expand architectural style provides a unique opportunity to set the EAZ apart from other areas of Dublin. The planning area also has natural features to build upon. Streams, fencerows and woodlots, should be used as elements by which to build character. The wetland appearance of the Glacier Ridge Metro Park and Red Trabue Nature Preserve, as well as the links -style landscaping of the Golf Club of Dublin provide opportunities for larger connections and a landscape character that complements the area in a distinctive manner. Recent residential development to the south in Ballantrae was initiated to improve development quality adjacent to the EAZ. The ability to obtain a cost - effective, acceptable level of quality is critical to establish the EAZ as a unique employment center. Recent agreements with the City of Columbus to coordinate annexation and developmentjust north of SR 161 provides an opportunity to better manage the front door appearance of the EAZ. Identification of gateway treatments, signs, art and streetscape elements will all play important roles to form a highly visible environment to attract technology- related development. 14 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE OUTLINING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE EAZ Dublin has targeted the U.S. 33 / SR 161 interchange area for office, research and development and clean industrial uses since 1997 With greater study of employment potential along U.S. 33, the 2007 Dublin Community Plan identified the Economic Advancement Zone as an area served by the city that would focus on commercial growth. The adopted Community Plan accurately identified major policy direction that reflects a commitments to establish a premier research and employment center within the larger Central Ohio Innovation Corridor. Facilitate the creation of a cohesive, integrated employment center Maintaining the City as an important employment center is key to the long - term vitality of Dublin, The creation of a support uses as a high - quality gateway to the city is very desirable and consistent with the community's established image. The EAZ should Include strong entry points Into the COIC and should Include complementary hotels, retail and a broad range of uses that will support prospective companies. Businesses must also have available development options ranging from campus settings to more urban walkable locations that will make the right fit. The corridor should include distinctive Identity through the use of landscaping, architecture, signs and other design Outlining Opportunities in the EAZ 15 A mix of uses will allow people to comfortably work and live in close proximity. Maximize highly visible areas and land uses appropriately With significant visibility along U.S. 33, key frontage sites should include prominent uses and architecture that capture the image of the Economic Advancement Zone. In general, uses along U.S. 33 should implement higher densities with a critical mass that creates a prominent sense of identity. In addition, uses with greater visual impact should be integrated throughout the EAZ in less prominent locations to ensure an overall mix of employment opportunities and desired visual character. The EAZ plan calls for increased housing options desirable for future employees. Provide convenient housing choices and access to daily services As a major employment center based on research and technology, future development must integrate a range of unique housing options in close proximity to businesses. Places to live and access to daily services should be strategically located to provide convenience within the context of the corridor. Great accessibility to regional greenway networks should be provided to offer a full assortment of amenities within the area for prospective businesses, employees and residents. 16 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Incorporate attractive streetscapes and pedestrian environments \\ As a large employment center, the Economic Advancement Zone must include an integrated system of pedestrian connections and spaces with unique character. In appropriate places, architecture should be placed close to the street edge and configured to provide courtyards and spaces and to screen parking. Other amenities such as water features, formal open spaces, landscape focal points, sculpture, courtyards, green malls or broad boulevards should also be encouraged where buildings do not relate to the public street. Future options for transit (bus and/or rail) should be implemented to provide long -term convenience and flexibility. Pedestrian connections should be included between employment, transit locations, service uses, open space systems and housing throughout the EAZ. Design in the EAZ focuses on people and bicycles while still balancing mobility for vehicles. Outlining Opportunities in the EAZ 17 Preserve and enhance natural features and the environment Utilize high quality, flexible design standards The Economic Advancement Zone includes important natural features such as woodlands, tree rows and stream corridors that should be preserved and integrated as valuable amenities. Environmental quality should be emphasized, and a key element of future development should include the integration of regional greenway connectivity and a framework of open space upon which all development is linked. Focus should be placed on the natural context of the area through creative layout, quality landscape design and the maintenance of unobstructed views to natural amenities. The integration of LEED - certified buildings or environmentally friendly design techniques should be highly encouraged as part of a cutting -edge technology center. Future development of the corridor as a major employment center will depend on the ability to establish standards that achieve architectural and design quality in a manner that is flexible and responsive to the private market. Emphasis should be placed on regulations that allow technology companies to quickly follow business opportunities while instilling unique visual character. The EAZ incorporates an extensive expansion of Dublin's current path system. 18 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE PROVIDING LAND USE DIRECTION The land use plan for the EAZ establishes a general hierarchy of uses and the associated character that will be expected. As a developing area, the relationship between land use and transportation planning are intricately linked. As the western most portion of the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor, land use flexibility will have significant impact on the development potential for many sites. In particular, the Land Use Plan was developed through significant stakeholder input to address the following major elements: » Maximizing visibility for sites along U.S 33 in a manner that will enhance the desirability for development; Opening up interior sites not immediately adjacent to the interchange to provide better access and market potential; » Maintaining the integrity of existing residential areas, while encouraging future housing options to enhance the area's desirability; Appropriately transition ing uses from higher - profile architecture near U.S. 33 to a more industrial character in western areas of the EAZ; and Ensuring future development will have easy access to amenities such as open space, recreation, and support services. Providing Land Use Direction 19 Considering Development Options As part of the planning process for the EAZ, a number of conceptual road alignments and associated land use patterns were developed to ascertain public preferences. Discussion of multiple land use concepts provided valuable opportunity to further define specific issues that should be addressed in the EAZ. The Central Loop The Central Loop concept considered the creation of a major circulation loop in the center of the EAZ by realigning Shier Rings northward to open up land along U.S. 33. While portions of Shier Rings Road were downplayed along residential areas, the concept impacted commercial access and made frontage property along the interstate too narrow to effectively market. The resulting loop system directly impacted some areas of residential use to the west along Shier Rings Road and did not result in a system that provided clear navigation to the interchanges. Many smaller commercial parcels were also negatively impacted by being separated from the major thoroughfare network for the EAZ. 20 The Darree Connection i/ Based on resident concerns about traffic levels and park - related congestion, the Darree Connection proposes a realignment of Shier Rings Road northward to establish a new park entrance that addresses neighborhood impacts and enhances recreational access. The resulting alignment allowed portions of Shier Rings from Eiterman Road to Cosgray Road to be downplayed as a local street with a defined greenway connection between Darree Fields and the northern entrance to Ballantrae. The application of a modified grid off SR 161 gives enhanced site access to areas within the interior, but does not sufficiently address traffic trying to move through the area from SR 161 to Avery Road. ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE The Scissors The Scissors concept implements a direct northward alignment of Shier Rings Road to establish a U.S. 33 bypass similar in concept to Emerald Parkway along 1 -270. The future road extension would create a direct route from Emerald Parkway to Industrial Parkway, and provides a continuous reliever along the interstate from Dublin to Marysville. The proposal also includes the implementation of a new formal entrance into Darree Fields. Similar to the U.S. 33 reliever, the plan creates a new east -west collector that parallels SR 161 creating a "scissors" or crossing point on City -owned land. The concept also downplays residential areas along Shier Rings Road and provides enhanced access and visibility for more properties within the area. Providing Land Use Direction 21 EAZ Land Use Plan — I a RED NATURE PRESERVE I POST ROAD 3 c DRP1E = T PERIME 0 r� 4 DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL DARREE FIELDS f f� Land Use Plan Research Office Research Flex Q Research Assembly Mixed Use Tech Mixed Residential Research Support Services Proposed Road Network o Optional Future Road Network Q Economic Advancement Zone o M P, o 22 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE GOLF UB OF DUBSLIN WOERNER TEMPLE ROAD a 0 Defining the Preferred Development Scenario Public forums provided very valuable feedback from property owners, residents and technical professionals. While particular elements of the first two scenarios were desired, a near unanimous preference was shown for the Scissors concept. Based upon all of the input, the best elements of all three concepts were integrated into the final EAZ Land Use Plan. The Land Use Plan identifies a hierarchy of preferred land uses based upon proximity to U.S. 33 on the east and the CSX railroad on the west. Those areas with primary visibility and access to U.S. 33 are focused toward higher - profile office and research development at a higher intensity. Moving to the west, the plan focuses on more flexible, lower- profile construction that will accommodate a broad range of office, research, lab, assembly, clean manufacturing and warehouse space. Areas furthest west within the EAZ are closest to the railroad and are more remote from the interstate. Larger manufacturing, warehouse and assembly uses with a more traditional industrial appearance are expected in these areas. The proposed land use plan identifies key areas along SR 161 and adjacent to Darree Fields where a combination of office and residential uses can provide more diverse housing options within walking or biking distance in the EAZ. As a key amenity for businesses and residents, the Plan also considers the integration of support services such as retail and personal services at both interchange areas. The final land use plan for the EAZ looks at a simple tiered approach to research uses and the development quality of the area. Locations with higher visibility and access focus on higher -level architecture, while those that are more remote provide opportunity to address a lower level of development expectation. The three research zones are balanced by additional residential and support zones that will provide a full range of research opportunity, housing choice and service amenities. Providing Land Use Direction 23 00 Research Office Research Office sites are those generally located within close proximity to interchange areas or with more direct visibility from U.S. 33. With its ability to influence the first impression of the EAZ, primary uses within this area are intended to focus on higher - profile office and research facilities. Development of multi- story buildings are strongly encouraged, and the use of higher - quality building materials are desired to establish the "front door" image for the area. Components such as assembly, clean manufacturing and warehousing are acceptable, but should be considered as secondary elements within the framework of a larger office /research facility. Research Flex The Research Flex category addresses those sites that have secondary access and /or proximity to residential areas where lower -scale construction would be expected. While highly desirable sites, those within this category do not have the proximity or visibility to U.S. 33 or the interchanges as in Research Office. Architecture is expected to provide a hybrid of office and industrial appearance that still provides for a broad range of uses that include office, research, laboratory, assembly, clean manufacturing and warehousing space. Design and construction should effectively incorporate space planning and architecture that focuses attention on the office component as the source of business identity. Within this zone, higher level uses and architecture acceptable within the Research Office category are also highly encouraged. Research Assembly The third tier of research categories includes sites more remote from U.S. 33 intended for a more industrial -like appearance. Larger manufacturing and assembly uses are envisioned that would include a secondary component of office space for administrative purposes. Development within this zone is encouraged to utilize design methods that enhance the appearance of larger industrial structures. In order to accommodate a broader range of uses and business types, quality architecture is expected, but at a lower level than more visible locations. Uses and architectural quality from the Research Office and Research Flex categories are also highly encouraged, but not required. 24 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE EAZ Land Use Categories . . . . . . . . . . \ Mixed Use Tech Key areas around residential neighborhoods, parks and potential retail areas are targeted for neighborhood - scale office uses and higher density housing products that would complement development and create an incentive for prospective technology- related businesses and employees. Housing in these areas are located to provide optimal access to surrounding amenities, while establishing a walking and biking environment in which employees can minimize automobile use and have access to long -term transit options. Should market conditions provide, these areas create a greater opportunity for integrated support uses. Moved Residential As identified in the 2007 Dublin Community Plan, some areas just outside the EAZ are denoted as Mixed Residential. Land in this category is expected to provide residential development with a mix of housing types that can complement existing single- family development. The district will further add to the palette of housing choices for employees within the EAZ. Mixes of multi - family products with a single - family neighborhood appearance are encouraged. Research Support Services Areas near the two main interchanges include the greatest opportunity to provide support functions such as retail, restaurants, personal services and other amenities that are highly desired by employers and employees. Support services are geographically defined according to the greatest opportunity for employees, residents and people travelling through the area to support a successful business environment. Designation of support areas are also placed in key locations that will support the EAZ, while ensuring that the larger development character of the area speaks of technology and innovation. Providing Land use Direction 25 EAZ Height Regulating Plan DARREE FIELDS * 0 04 Height Regulating Plan = 4+ ® 3 -4 v 0 23 0 2 DRIVE Proposed Road Network o Optional Future Road Network Q Economic Advancement Zone hg (Based on a 17ft Module) o 9 26 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE GOLF CLUB OF DUBLIN 9 o� a n a /1 RED TRABUE NATURE PRESERY � r- f • I POSTROAD v c DRIVE �_ \.. _ PE0.1MH`'R m !- o 0 a r� DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL Building Height As part of the larger Central Ohio Innovation Corridor, the EAZ is focused on suburban - style patterns that can accommodate more intense development near interchange areas. While the application of general land use categories is very flexible throughout the EAZ, the scale of buildings must also take into consideration the surrounding context. The Height Regulating Plan includes designations to limit building height based upon the specific location within the EAZ. Sites adjacent to existing neighborhoods are expected to include lower building heights, while those locations with high visibility and interchange access may include taller buildings that maximize development potential on key sites. Sites along the freeway like Dublin Methodist Hospital frontage should incorporate larger building heights and massing for a greater presence. Providing Land Use Direction 27 EAZ Logistics, Travel Time to Regional Destinations o >n l DELAWARE i ii O CSX Marysville �DSTRANDER u Terminal j 40 minutes - -- i } SDNBLI 1 F i Z MARYSUILLL U _D z � iU OU w r n —. GALENA Union County z a o nnco�� Airport z l c o 25 minutes MILFORD qZ p N `s I 2 v P I S s " 9� POWELL v_ P T Columbus777 Polaris Centers IONVILLE 096 Inn � cbf Commerce '' c NrER I & — _ —_ —_ —_ _Aqua m COUNTY FRANKLIN COUNTY _ __ WESTERVILLE - - UNION COU . _ �. _� L MADISON COUNTY as INGTON' Rte_ MINERVA 161 PARK NEW Themill �t Don $COtt a ALBANY z� TuttleCrossi 315 VIII L-33 Airport a J HI D 1� es } ARLINGTON I—' Den C^ d Y he Ohio State ' UnIVerSlt �._ GAxANNA _ - o 49 �IIMS Port Columbus x ReLe International Airport CSX Po bV_s 0 minutes � —Jnfemational'Air of Buckeye n, Terminal Downtown _xLEYI `' MI - 10 minutes VALLE JEW Columbus WN ��� 20 minutes J f PwNOI osRURC � BRICE `�� I LONDON IN rr )) D IIU Fuld EST �. The EAZ offers , ►� 1 6 1 o n ° L S r Fir convenient access to the regio Ion's ma I / L� _ OBETZ -- �1 business and logistics e °, ^ ^ „° �Rickenbacker Intermodal 33 Y( -f WV � �.w,,�;, and International Airport i CANAL destinations. '��+ 35 minutes ,vEPGRr WINCHESTER. —, KY�� 0 9:11national Airport r - - -1 28 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE OE" FACILITATING ACCESS AND CIRCULATION Quick and easy access is important to attract and maintain businesses within the EAZ. Located just west of 1 -270, the planning area includes interchanges and arterials that facilitate access to key logistics points, nearby communities and residential areas. The establishment of a well - managed transportation network and access to near the 1 -270 outerbelt makes the EAZ a prime location along a developing corridor that has quick access to all areas of the metropolitan region. Whether as a commuting employee or for freight movement, transportation planning for the EAZ provides distinct opportunity for new business and strives to achieve the following: Using road and intersection improvements to enhance traffic movement and reduce conflict points; multiple travel options while separating through traffic from surrounding Planning internal road improvements to most efficiently provide access to sites and maximize business access to interchanges; and Creating a road network that provides Facilitating Access and Circulation 29 Two of three construction phases have been completed at the U.S. 33 / SR 161 interchange to enhance traffic movement into the EAZ. U.S. 33 / SR 161 Interchange Improvements As part of efforts to ensure quality access to the EAZ, the City of Dublin has proactively worked to facilitate transportation upgrades in the area. Through the cooperation of the Ohio Department of Transportation in 2005, the City obtained to fast -track completion of approved designs for the interchange area. Following its approval, modifications were then made and approved by the State of Ohio to include modern roundabouts instead of signal control at the off -ramps in September 2006. Since that time, Dublin has completed two of three phases for the interchange design. Initial work focused on the relocation of Liggett Road to prepare for the eastern off -ramp. Phase 2 resulted in the relocation of Industrial Parkway to the west and the widening of SR 161 between Eiterman Road and Cosgray Road. This key segment of SR 161 provides the main entrance into the northern edge of the EAZ. Completion of these first two phases will provide improved traffic management for the near future. Reconstruction of the interchange deck and ramps will be the final phase to be programmed. The combination of projects, estimated at nearly $50 million dollars, is the single- largest amount of money Dublin has ever dedicated to a single capital project. Given growth expectations for the EAZ and the remainder of the U.S. 33 Corridor, the return on this investment is important to the City's continued financial stability. 30 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE V A A A A A A A A A AQ 1 -2701 U.S. 33 Interchange Project As a key regional transportation node, the 1-270 / U.S. 33 Interchange Is very im Aorta nt to the entire Central Ohio region. As a critical gateway from the northwest, the Interchange has not been significantly upgraded since its initial construction in the 1960's when Dublin was a rural community of less than 700 residents, Today, Dublin is home to over 41,000 residents and 66,600 employees. As an Important node for commuter and freight movement along the northern outerbelt, Dublin, Marysville and Union County are collaborating with the Ohio Department of Transportation to rebuild the interchange. With a total estimated project cost of $45 Million the City is proactively pursuing initial study phases and funding to expedite the study, design and approval process. City Council has approved $2.9 Million to move forward with Phase I studies for the project Continued Investment In this key transportation project will also maintain and improve access to the EAZ in the future. E T I N sams MI kGm �IZit �Ya'"IM ry wires 1 -2701 U.S. 33 Interchange Project As a key regional transportation node, the 1-270 / U.S. 33 Interchange Is very im Aorta nt to the entire Central Ohio region. As a critical gateway from the northwest, the Interchange has not been significantly upgraded since its initial construction in the 1960's when Dublin was a rural community of less than 700 residents, Today, Dublin is home to over 41,000 residents and 66,600 employees. As an Important node for commuter and freight movement along the northern outerbelt, Dublin, Marysville and Union County are collaborating with the Ohio Department of Transportation to rebuild the interchange. With a total estimated project cost of $45 Million the City is proactively pursuing initial study phases and funding to expedite the study, design and approval process. City Council has approved $2.9 Million to move forward with Phase I studies for the project Continued Investment In this key transportation project will also maintain and improve access to the EAZ in the future. E T I N sams MI kGm �IZit �Ya'"IM ry wires Dublin is taking a regional leadership role to expedite improvements that will positively impact the EAZ and the entire U.S. 33 corridor. Facilitating Access and Circulation 31 7� - 4.0 . Dublin is taking a regional leadership role to expedite improvements that will positively impact the EAZ and the entire U.S. 33 corridor. Facilitating Access and Circulation 31 �j Central Ohio was recently ranked as the second best region in America for commuters, with an average travel time of only 22.8 minutes. The Transportation Plan The Transportation Plan for the EAZ builds upon the 2007 Dublin Community Plan and addresses in greater detail the specific character and alignment of internal roads. Significant macro -level transportation modeling based on assumed land use densities as part of the Community Plan ensures that the area's road network will be able to address traffic levels into the future. Expected densities as part of the land use component of the EAZ Plan have not changed in a manner that would negatively impact that analysis. The plan for future transportation improvements was established to provide a clear internal system of public streets that will result in predictability and enhance development potential for the entire area. The network includes a number of significant elements and alignments that vary from assumptions made as part of the Community Plan's adopted Thoroughfare Plan, although general connectivity remains the same: >> Creating an interstate reliever along U.S. 33 to enhance access for commuters and to better separate through- traffic from area neighborhoods; >> Creating a future entrance to Darree Fields to downplay residential portions of Shier Rings Road between Eiterman and Cosgray Roads; >> Establishing a more defined entry point into residential areas along Cosgray Road south of the EAZ; and >> Creating an east -west connection paralleling SR 161 that will provide additional options to access the interchange and to link with transit along the railroad. 32 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE EAZ Thoroughfare Plan — I e RED TRAI S NATURE PRE Y y I I t � D � O I I V P I 60 O O j 60/124 N N POSTROAD / DRIVE PERIM � So✓�` � I ih d DUBLIN - - METHODIST 9 HOSPITAL 0 J O DARREE FIELDS 4), •ter DUBLIN Transportation Plan Freeway — Anerials — Internal Collectors — Neighborhood Streets o - Optional Connections i Q Economic Advancement Zone o ### Right -of -Way Width (Feet) I+ o a o TO BALLEN A GOLF CLUB OF DUBLIN 3 � a 0 m a �1 F UD; a.. 1 0 Facilitating Access and Circulation 33 Street Character and Typologies A key component of the Transportation Plan includes the establishment of a road hierarchy with three levels of design and function. Major arterials through the area are expected to be built similar to Emerald Parkway with two travel lanes and a bike lane or sharrow in each direction and landscaped median. Design speed to encourage efficiency of movement is expected at 35 to 40 mph. Smaller connectors that funnel traffic onto major roads have an expected design similar to that of Eiterman Road through the Ballantrae development. Its design includes one travel lane and bike lane in each direction with a landscaped median. Travel is expected to be slower (30 -35 mph) based on the character of the street and placement of surrounding buildings. Internal to pockets of development will be neighborhood -level streets that provide on- street parking and cycling with slower speed (25 mph). '% tPPH Arterials Design speed: 35 -40 mph Two lanes of travel each way Median separation with center left Integrated bike lands for commuters Curvilinear multi -use paths /sidewalks for recreational use Thematic landscaping 34 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE r r, Internal Connectors One lane of travel each way Median separation with center left Integrated bike lands for commuters Curvilinear multi -use paths /sidewalks for recreational use Thematic landscaping SAL 8 KEATN Neighborhood Streets One lane of travel each way Signed bike route for shared use On- street parking to enhance pedestrian environment Sidewalks or paths to access businesses Facilitating Access and Circulation 35 Phasing of road improvements is key to providing the greatest level of impact. Most critical to the success of the EAZ is the ability to enhance the "front door" appearance from SR 161 /Post Road. Higher priority segments include the extension of major internal roads through city -owned land southward to open up internal sites for development. Improvements should establish marketable and development -ready sites and should be integrated into capital programming and other financing mechanisms. Following the development of areas near the interchange, road improvements should continue to the west and south or as additional development warrants. In particular: Complete linkages and upgrades to Shier Rings Road to complete the U.S. 33 reliever; Improve access to City -owned property at SR 161 and Houchard Road; and Upgrade Eiterman Road and create a new entrance to Darree Fields. Lower priority road segments along the Cosgray Road corridor should be considered over time along with development proposals. 36 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE __ a L HSNELURIVE o i PPO '�' LECryryGWGYWPY g ltppg9YlEfTIyE WBIINPPKK r _ s K i rarvnE VnEtFnvE II I er.___� pnsYHwo TZ � M1 '_ onnE pEftW'tYER `` o ` \ Dusan xnxoolsT HoSPITIL G'� E� P � g� o OFxflEE 1 FlEtvS ppvPNCEMEM FVmGE Prioritization of quad Improvements �I'I VOq[ Paorlry _i Metlium Pnonty Low Pnoriry �Oxlxr Q Economiegtivancemam Zone Establishing a U.S. 33 reliever will open interior portions of the EAZ for development. SHIER NNeswno OGR B>1lF}IIRAE g aF—IIH I y I �WOFANFR ,FMPt£ nGM '_ a 07. INCORPORATING TRANSIT OPTIONS As one of the largest metropolitan regions in the nation, Central Ohio has primarily developed in a low- density suburban form. Over the years, significant investment has been made in the area's road networks resulting in relatively low congestion and commute times for Dublin and the region. As an economic leader in Central Ohio, Dublin's success has been, in part, due to its commitment toward planning and proactively constructing major roadway projects to ensure access and mobility. Despite Dublin's significant role as a regional employment center, reliance on the automobile has resulted in modest transit and employment will continue to rise unlike most urban areas within the Midwest. Efforts to develop the EAZ must include the options focused on larger employers or key planning and capability for transit options as regional destinations such as the Columbus opportunities arise. Zoo. Despite these limitations, population Incorporating Transit Options 37 Transit in Central Ohio As the regional transit provider, the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) has very focused service within the Dublin Area. Existing lines center around the Tuttle - Emerald Parkway area, as well as locations on the interior of 1 -270. Long range plans for COTA have identified additional routes to Dublin Methodist Hospital just north of the EAZ, and the transit authority has been actively pursuing additional park- and -ride locations to complement its Dale Drive location. Areas under consideration include the Sawmill Road Corridor, the hospital area and a location in the EAZ near the U.S. 33 / SR 161 interchange. COTA's routes are currently provided in an amorphous pattern with Dublin located at the terminus of routes extending from the Ohio State campus and inner city. Major employers have stressed the need for additional transit access, particularly in a cross -town patterns between suburbs that would increase access to potential service employees. Enhanced travel between the downtown employment core is also an important future consideration. To address these concerns, COTA's plans include the capability to better link Dublin with the Worthington and Hilliard areas. In times of economic decline, however, COTA has focused its efforts to provide additional routes in other areas of the region. As a result additional planned routes in Dublin will be delayed in the near future. Planning for future routes has not yet extended to the EAZ and must be considered. The EAZ plan proactively looks at long term growth that extends beyond the hospital area. The EAZ plan serves as a guide for future mode choices and the general placement of routes. COTA provides transit options for the Central Ohio Region, including routes to major destinations in the COIC. 38 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Regional Light Rail Despite significant investment in past studies, consideration of light rail options in Central Ohio area has not progressed in recent years. COTA's evaluation of the North Corridor Transit Project was the last attempt to look at regional rail solutions for commuters. The hub and spoke approach centered on downtown Columbus and emphasized areas of highest density along a north -south line mirroring High Street and the 1 -71 Corridor. While Dublin was considered as a secondary route for that system, the proposal was not successful and little consideration has been given for other approaches that could garner greater support from key suburbs like Dublin. As regional growth continues and property values increase, two feasible sources of land for future routes will likely be limited to railroad rights -of -way or some consideration of existing rights -of -way along interstates or other key thoroughfares. Given the nature of Central Ohio's transportation network and development intensity, significant increases in local and regional congestion will be necessary before regional or suburban light rail becomes politically or economically possible. While it is reasonable to expect that rail solutions will not be seen at any time in the foreseeable future, the EAZ Transit Plan considers the need for this type of transit investment and accommodates additional mode choices to increase transportation options. Ohio's Rail Future Over the last few years, significant discussion about passenger rail has occurred at the state level. In particular, the Ohio Hub concept has been developed with the purpose of creating a series of passenger rail connections to link Columbus with other Ohio metropolitan areas in a spoke pattern. The idea of an Ohio passenger system could be connected to other states in the Midwest, providing a more regional and even national approach. As part of the Ohio Hub concept, the CSX railroad through Dublin was considered as a secondary line that would link Columbus northwest to areas such as Fort - Wayne /Chicago and Toledo/ Detroit. Primary focus of the Ohio Hub Concept is the 3 -C line linking Cleveland, Columbus Incorporating Transit Options 39 sm and Cincinnati as the state's largest metro areas. The concept includes a very limited number of intermediate stops. With concerns raised about the cost and speed of such a proposal, the push for passenger rail in Ohio has been delayed. However, plans for the EAZ should maintain an option to provide a future station location and the ability to consider the area for related development. While proximity to downtown Columbus may make a planned stop more difficult, the significance of tech - related employment and the importance of the EAZ could warrant a station location in the EAZ's rail frontage along Darree Fields. In addition to regional passenger rail, Ohio is quickly becoming a major national logistics hub. Recent completion of Norfolk Southern's Heartland Corridor project has created a more direct route from east coast ports through the mountains to Columbus. The new improvements can accommodate double -stack container shipments and has significantly reduced transit time to the new Rickenbacker Intermodal Yard. Central Ohio is becoming a key shipment point for Chicago and the entire Midwest. CSX also has key rail yards near Roberts Road and near Marysville. The creation of a new intermodal yard near Findlay places Dublin within easy reach of a variety of rail shipment options. As a major industrial freight corridor, U.S. 33 and the EAZ is strategically located within the region. The EAZ's rail link between Columbus and Marysville provides the opportunity to integrate rail spurs to support freight movement and access to supply chains for clean manufacturing activity. Freight traffic on the CSX line is expected to increase significantly over time and will also impact the ability to consider other regional or statewide passenger options. The EAZ Plan provides flexibility for both passenger and freight rail applications. The Ohio Hub Concept may someday bring passenger rail to Dublin. 40 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE The Transit Plan The EAZ Transit Plan looks holistically beyond to the larger Dublin context. With important changes occurring through the middle of the city, the SR 161 spine stretching from the EAZ to the Bridge Street Corridor encompasses the majority of future development and commercial intensification in Dublin. Specifically, the plan looks at the role that COTA plays today in the Dublin area and considers a long- term progression of transit options that will adjust to development patterns and growth. Extended Bus Lines With the predominance of the automobile, short term solutions for transit include working with COTA to expand service within Dublin and the EAZ. COTA's long - range plans identify the hospital area as a destination point and focus for future routes linking adjacent suburbs. Development of the EAZ will include the westward extension of routes as the employment center grows. With COTA's system focusing on linear routes, key end points or loops within the EAZ should be established and changed as major employers or other amenities are identified. The additional routes should be focused on providing greater access and choice for commuters. Creation of a Dublin Circulator /Spine As the EAZ and the entire SR 161 Corridor intensifies, greater effort should be made to focus on Dublin's needs. Whether through COTA or a City - sponsored service, the establishment of a circulator route or primary transit spine should be established that will link key Dublin area businesses, amenities and destinations. Various options were considered that included both spine and circulator options. Based upon a proposed transit route in the Bridge Street Corridor Plan, the preferred planning option includes a primary transit spine that mirrors SR 161 along Perimeter Drive where most retail and employment nodes can be accessed. The spine would be considered in combination with a circulator The long term outlook will lead the region toward other options to travel. Incorporating Transit Options 41 EAZ Transit Plan z EAZ SUPPORT DESTINATION TECHNOLOGYWAY A , n o , DUBLIN PARK DI TERRABYTE DRIVE B RAIL DEPOT/ ARREE PARK- -RIDE FIELDS _ OPTION _ 33 0 A O POST ROAD -� PARK -N -RIDE � PARK m� P� 4 v f� REDTRABUE MATURE PRESERV POSTROAD wag 100 ,1 41 DUBLIN C OSPITAL �MET-HODI ST PARK•N -RIDE PITAL O PTION 2 RINGS ROAD Transit Plan B� Bus Service - Phase 1 Bus Service - Phase 2 Bus Service - Phase 3 Transit Spine - Phase 4 Transit Spine - Phase 5 ■ 1 Transit Spine - Phase 6 M Bus Service - Phase 7 * Key Destinations Park -N -Ride Locations s 0 Future Road Connections i Q Economic Advancement Zone o 0 0 42 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE o Pq� 9 9� SHIER RINGS N 0 K O v ' Ff 9 BALLENTRAE Po 9� GOLF CLUB OF DUBLIN WOERNER TEMPLE ROAD N N N N N N route linking key employment nodes along Emerald Parkway and Frantz Road with destinations in Historic Dublin and the Dublin Village Center area. Any circulator route should be focused on providing adequate headway with wait times of less than ten minutes to satisfactorily serve residents and employees. Other COTA routes should also be reconfigured to link into any established circulator system. As part of its identification, specialized buses such as hybrid or eco- friendly buses, luxury buses, retrofitted double decker buses or rubber tire street cars that would be distinctive from regular transit routes should be emphasized to increase ridership rates. Rapid Bus With greater development intensity and increasing traffic congestion, a point will be reached at which typical bus route delays in traffic will justify consideration of a new alternative. Establishment of Rapid Bus is an option that has greater prioritization and will allow for the expedited movement of buses through normal traffic. Rapid bus may include signal prioritization and/ or signal preemption, as well as other intelligent treatments such as interactive stop times that will inform users. Rapid buses use the normal road right -of -way, but can include additional queue lanes that allow faster movement through congestion points and institutions. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) The next stage in transit provision is the Bus Rapid Transit option. Given the establishment of Emerald Parkway - type design standards for major roads, congestion may someday reach a point by which a lane of traffic could be converted to bus use. Internal lanes on the transit spine reaching from the EAZ to the Bridge Street Corridor area is proposed for bus - only or HOV lanes that will accommodate the rapid movement of buses. Transit stops could be placed within the landscaped median areas if properly planned. Selection of the Bus Rapid Transit option is preferred because of the relative lower cost provided by converting existing infrastructure. With time, buses are expected to continue Incorporating Transit Options 43 improving in efficiency, and the use of buses can be more cost- effective than rail options. Lanes could be available to general traffic in off -peak hours, and the system could easily be extended in stages and converted to rail if ridership justifies the expenditure. Progression of Transit Options Light Rail As the core of Dublin continues to grow, the designated BRT line that coordinates Bridge Street and the EAZ paralleling SR 161 can be considered for conversion to light rail. If development patterns can support the shift, the rail lines can be added into the existing right -of -way. Regardless of whether Dublin will progress to light rail through the EAZ, any of the above transit options should be extended to link with passenger or commuter rail, should the opportunity arise. Most likely would be a transit location within the EAZ in the proximity of existing Darree Fields. A secondary consideration would be the integration of light rail into the 1 -270 and/ or U.S. 33 Corridors and the potential to establish key linkages with routes as necessary to enhance mobility and spur development at important nodes. Creation of Circulator - t Expanded Bus Service Rapid Bus Bus Rapid Transit Light Rail 44 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE ESTABLISHING THE GROUNDWORK Utility infrastructure is a key ingredient for encouraging development within the EAZ. A majority of improvements will be extended along with major roadway enhancements, and the EAZ Plan includes study and analysis to ensure that infrastructure is sufficiently anticipated and installed. Any improvements should also provide the flexibility to address future changes and technologies. With the EAZ being marketed toward clean manufacturing companies, sufficient electric and water are vital to attracting these types of businesses. Water & Sewer Services Similar to planned transportation improvements for the area, water and sewer infrastructure for the EAZ was respectively. Modeling results indicated that the South Fork would require 4,000 feet of improvements to accommodate expected Establishing the Groundwork 45 EAZ Sewer and Water Plan — — — r— - - - - -- --- - - - - -- — I .SPoS6lii.H?DSTgeAO � � • 16� ■ ■ I ■ � ~ �sFlSHE�D PIVE■ I c ��•�1•r. r. o , � ■ � TERMBVTF � NE � �. ■ ■ ■ I ■ ♦ ' OARREE ■ FIELDS ■ li l ■ � ooh I ♦ I ! Sanitary Sewer System Existng Lines • Proposed Lines • Lines to be RemovedtRelocated Water System Existing Lines • Proposed Lines Lines to be Remove&Relocated Q Economic Advancement Zone Columbus Seance Agreement Area i 46 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE a ,00 33 �1 d A O O Q� � P N w, a 0 z • aDS TiayN; ■ J6. 11 • 3 o ♦ ti GHNDEDGY WAY ♦ ■ y �pY; . � a ,00 ) r. r. �K 0 pA a v i •■ f 1 0 • , •• It GOLF CLUB OF DUBLIN 0 A < I REDTRABUE i t NATURE PRESERVE ■ DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL �1 � N ) r. r. �K 0 pA a v i •■ f 1 0 • , •• It GOLF CLUB OF DUBLIN 0 A < I REDTRABUE i t NATURE PRESERVE ■ DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL As part of efforts to encourage annexation and development, the City of Dublin is acquiring easements to complete a funded sewer extension project that will proactively provide service west along the South Fork Indian Run to properties in the northwest corner of the planning area. As part of these infrastructure improvements, the extension beyond Cosgray Road will provide the opportunity for industrial areas still within the township to annex and more easily acquire public services. The City of Dublin has also invested significant efforts toward improving portions of the Post Water District that include the EAZ. Installation of final segments to establish a loop system has improved service within the Southwest Area of Dublin. The recent completion of the 2 million gallon tank at Darree Fields in the EAZ will also ensure that future development has sufficient capacity to meet any needs. Construction of this tank allows the aging Post Road tank along SR 161 to be removed, providing additional prime frontage land for redevelopment. I s The Darree Fields tank completes the main water components necessary to serve the EAZ. Establishing the Groundwork 47 �j Dublin works with utility providers to efficiently expand service for development. Electric and Other Utilities Other utilities such as electric, gas, phone and cable can be easily provided throughout the EAZ. The area is located within the electric service area for American Electric Power. With substations along Shier Rings Road and Hayden Run Road to the east and south respectively, added service can be extended. In order to further enhance the area's capabilities, the City of Dublin donated land to the utility provider for an additional substation location south of SR 161 in the middle of the EAZ. This location provides power from existing high tension transmission lines running north to south through the EAZ between Cosgray and Houchard roads. Completion of the substation will allow for additional looping to prevent power loss. Past planning discussions with AEP identified the capacity to extend lines for large -scale users from Shier Rings Road, as well as the future Houchard substation. Provision of power by Union Rural Electric just to the north of the EAZ gives further opportunity for future redundancy. The EAZ also has a significant component of gas infrastructure in place. Major lines are located along SR 161 with service extending down Eiterman Road and Cosgray Road. Industrial areas on Fishel Drive and Dublin Park Drive also have service, and the future extensions along key roads provide the capability to easily facilitate development. Similar to the provision of natural gas, other utilities such as phone and cable are available in the area. As the City extends road improvements, easements are secured to ensure that all utilities can be provided in a coordinated manner, and underground installation is encourages for visual quality and to protect service. 48 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE EMPHASIZING THE CUTTING EDGE While the availability of water and sewer once signified the potential for development, times have changed and the City of Dublin has used foresight to address the Changing needs of business. As a leader in Central Ohio, the City of Dublin is working to use technology infrastructure as an economic development tool and incentive to do business. Taking a regional approach to development, Dublin is focusing on the EAZ as a critical component of a much larger system of technology related nodes in the region that make Central Ohio more marketable on a national and global scale. In conjunction with this macro -level view of development, the City is also investing significant effort to ensure that great business ideas can start here in Dublin and companies can grow in place. Focus on Technology and Communication The City of Dublin has focused significant efforts towards building the largest broadband and WiFi system in Central Ohio. DubLink is Dublin's broadband infrastructure system located throughout underground and is extended in conjunction with major road improvements. The system is an example of how Dublin provides Intelligent. Vital. Connected. ne Emphasizing the Cutting Edge 49 EAZ Broadband Fiber Plan 33 o w a j REDTRABUE ¢' °< NATURE PRESERVE sa s i 0 Y O � I Q� y z . •' �. I 0.ON y .� _ — _ - - __ - -_ L__ POST ROAD S } G ill6lr/ POST ROAD y 3 - - -- . - - - -- -J 2 K o' c DRIVE A p� PERIM� m � FlSHEL DRIVE WlKlnd noµuo � � # ° N a soak z �..� TECHNOLOGY WAYS N'JApY `G p DUBLIN DUBLIN PARKDRIVE METHODIST rRR`pgYTEDRNE� HOSPITAL 4 z 33 i y ° FIELDS ADVANCENif AVENUE h Cos ray Creek FIELDS i'� � I - np / SHIERRINGS, ROAD I \— SHIER RINGS ROAD OAK I I _ F it n BALLENTRAE 3 a y � � GOLF CLUB Broadband Fiber System OF DUBLIN M Existing Proposed -High Priority Proposed -Medium Priority TEMPLE ROAD c — - - . a Proposed - Low Priority �oq0 $ WOERNER Q Economic Advancement Zone `. % g a ' c I I T1 50 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE innovative services to corporate residents. DubLINK accommodates optical fiber services providing instant access to the global marketplace. Created as an economic development tool, fibers from the system can be dedicated to businesses for exclusive use. Ohio Health, Battelle, IGS Energy and Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) are examples of corporations that are benefiting from Dublin's proactive planning. In addition to DubLink, the City has also linked with the Ohio Academic Research Network (OARnet) to create the Central Ohio Research Network (CORN). The broadband system links businesses with educational institutions to encourage research and economic development opportunities. Through Dublin's connection to the most advanced statewide research network in the United States, OARnet provides access to governments, colleges, universities and other institutions such as the Ohio Supercomputer Center through more than 1,850 miles of high -speed broadband. As an integral part of the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor, development in the EAZ includes the comprehensive extension of DubLink facilities along with identified road improvements. With interchange enhancements underway at the SR 161 entrance to the EAZ, primary extensions of the broadband network are initially planned from that area. In conjunction with road widenings along SR 161 and the realignment of Shier Rings Road to Industrial Parkway, system extensions will be made along arterials and collectors or as expedited by particular development proposals. For two years in a row, Dublin has been recognized by the Intelligent Communities Forum as one of the top seven cities in the world for broadband. Community of the Year MIKE �f corn CENTRAL OHIO RESEARCH NETWORK TM Emphasizing the Cutting Edge 51 Fostering Business Creation and Growth As part of efforts to be a regional force in technology - related growth, Dublin has partnered with Tech Columbus to establish the Dublin Entrepreneurial Center (DEC). Located at 7003 Post Road, the DEC has been home to over 50 new companies and serves as a successful example of how municipal commitments can help to grow local companies and entrepreneurial ideas. Since its inception, the DEC has won awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for the collaborative approach between the City of Dublin, Tech Columbus and participating businesses and organizations that is making the Center a success. This important element is one part of much larger plans to foster development opportunities that will meet the needs of all kinds of business, from start -up ideas and growing companies to the largest global corporations. W // The Dublin Entrepreneurial Center has been home to over 50 new companies an award - winning collaborative business model. 52 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE ESTABLISHING BIKEWAY AND GREEN CONNECTIONS Recreation and pedestrian movement are extremely important planning and design components within the EAZ. As a greater emphasis is placed on mobility for cyclists, the EAZ provides a unique opportunity to establish a comprehensive system of commuter and recreational bikeways. The plan provides full access throughout the area with key regional connections to major parks and activity nodes. While most public input has focused on missing links and connections to existing residential areas, the EAZ Plan looks more comprehensively at the long -term value of bicycle infrastructure not only as an amenity, but as an integral transportation and economic development component. The Bikeways Plan As a model of development for other areas of Dublin, the EAZ Bikeway Plan surrounding areas in the following ways: along major arterials and collectors to provide commuter access throughout the Establishing Bikeway and Green Connections 53 A signature multiuse bridge across U.S. 33 can serve as a future landmark feature for motorists. 54 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Coordinate multi -use paths along major roads and through comprehensive open space systems that provides recreational access to activity centers and destinations; and Use internal streets as signed bike routes to enhancethe pedestrian orientation of the business neighborhood by mixing bikes and cars, The implementation of this bikeway system will provide for full connectivity within the EAZ and surrounding areas. Elements of the plan specifically address efforts in other areas of the Citysuch as the Hyland -Croy Corridor and the Bridge Street :Corridor to consider how pedestrian and bicycle movement can be integrated with the City's greenway and transportation networks, The most significant capital element of the Bikeway Plan includes the Asia B ran ment of multi -use bridge over J S: 33 using the existing Elterman Road right - of way . With the Inability to provide pedestrian connectivity through the US. 33/SR 161 interchange, the establishment of this key east west Connection provides an opportunity to establish an artistic architectural structure as an image -maker along the core of the EAZ, EAZ Bikeways and Pedestrian Plan SR_161 / POST ROAD i m c � a I il TERRRASYTEDRWE RED TRABUE NATURE PRESERVE T POSTROAD a OPTIONAL MULTI -USE BRIDGE 3 y 9 A PERIMETER DRIVE - DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL I i DARREE / U, va ➢c ADVANCEME AVENUE I FIELDS I ' i � . ' I' I, ' I � I —I — SHIEANNGS ROAD I I SHIER NNGS ROAD OAK L, L_A� I l BALLENTRAE GOLF CLUB Bikeways & Pedestrian Plan OF DUBLIN Bike Lanes Sharrows Bike Route OE Multi -Use Path Q Economic Advancement Zone o n y� Future Multi -Use Path �F A Bridge Connection 0 /1 33 e s 0 a 0 0 i o POSS R�yO z SR 1611 � S y v g s 0 = o o� L RSHELDRIVE � r gon k� So��D� �7ECHNOLOGYWAY� �pV c T ° a c Establishing Bikeway and Green Connections 55 \ N\ \ NNE\\ �j Parks and Greenspace Dublin is well known as a community focused on establishing parks and preserving open spaces and riparian corridors. Amenities for residents and businesses, Dublin currently has over 1,400 acres of dedicated parkland and open space and has targeted expansions of this system as future development occurs. Key park and greenspace destinations in and around the EAZ include the following: of natural areas with sensory garden, paths, meadows and historic log cabin located just northeast of the EAZ. Red Trabue Nature Preserve provides valued wetland areas near the EAZ. Darree Fields. The 152 -acre community park is located in the EAZ between Cosgray and Houchard Roads. The park includes seven baseball diamonds, multi - purpose fields, picnic and restroom facilities, Miracle League Field, dog park and soccer fields. » Glacier Ridge Metro Park. This 1,000- » acre regional park with natural areas, horse trails and the Honda Wetland Center is located just north of SR 161 east of U.S. 33. » M.L. "Red" Trabue Nature Preserve. This community park includes 90 acres The Golf Club of Dublin. This award - winning 18 -hole links golf course is located within the heart of the Ballantrae residential community at the south edge of the EAZ. 56 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE The Open Space Plan Development within the EAZ will be supported by a comprehensive greenway system linking major parks, destinations and activity centers as an important visual element and pedestrian amenity. Key recommendations of the Open Space Plan include the extension of green corridors along the CSX railroad, northward along existing power easements and to the east using stream corridors. The Plan specifically recommends emphasizing pedestrian and green connections along existing Shier Rings Road between Eiterman Road to Darree Fields. The plan highlights the residential nature of this area and provides linkages to L Public- private partnerships were used to create the Golf Club of Dublin just south of the EAZ. HRH ..�. .. MW Glacier Ridge provides miles of horse trails, paths, wetlands and natural areas within sight of the EAZ. Establishing Bikeway and Green Connections 57 58 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE N NX X\EN1K\X neighborhoods south of the EAZ. Greenway extensions along Eiterman Road and the South Fork Indian Run create the potential to coordinate bike and pedestrian connectivity across U.S. 33. Long range plans emphasize connectivity with the Hyland -Croy Corridor and Red Trabue Nature Preserve. These key extensions to the east will provide the opportunity for an uninterrupted regional system along the SR 161 corridor from Darree Fields in the EAZ to the Dublin Village Center area along Sawmill Road. Major planning elements of the Open Space Plan include the following actions: Maintain greenway buffers along stream corridors to preserve the floodplain and facilitate pedestrian options. Encourage setbacks along key roads that will facilitate the extension of multi -use paths. Identify a balance of programmed spaces that are located within the larger framework of the natural environment. The Open Space Plan will create an interconnected system of natural areas throughout the EAZ and beyond. Establishing Bikeway and Green Connections 59 60 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE 1 CREATING ARCHITECTURAL IDENTITY Establishing a definable "place" is an important element of planning and marketing efforts for the Economic Advancement Zone. The application of architecture should be used to create a unique identity that will set this portion of the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor apart from all other areas of Dublin. The plan's intent is to encourage a style of architecture that will visually emphasize or evoke the qualities of innovation, technology and progress as a key focus for the area. To achieve a larger vision for the area, construction within the EAZ should focus on the implementation of contemporary style. At all levels of architectural complexity, from premium office architecture to manufacturing facilities, elements of a common style can be used to varying degrees to ensure a cohesive "feel." As part of the focus toward technology, progress, change and innovation, the following key elements should be considered and are strongly encouraged in all designs: Emphasizing the use of glass, architectural metal, cut stone, wood and brick as materials; >> Avoiding the use of limestone in more traditional applications to avoid historic appearances or coordination with other areas of the city; Designing buildings with varying shapes and forms; Integrating geometric shapes and the use of planes; Incorporating non - rectangular shapes that distort the structure and create jutting elements for additional space; Using angles and pitches to evoke movement and juxtaposition; Integrating organic design with curves to characterize flow and movement; and Emphasizing natural light and sustainable building techniques that may better visually or physically connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Creating Architectural Identity 61 "In any architecture there is an equity between the pragmatic function and the symbolic function." Michael Graves Architectural Details... Communicating a Pattern In order to achieve the desired architectural The next section entitled Benchmark character and quality forthe EAZ, elements Buildings shows existing buildings in the following architectural sections are with design expressions that would fit intended to provide assistance to those planning to build within the EAZ The pattern elements that describe architecture provide a visual companion to help Interpret and administer applicable zoning regulations. The pattern elements are tools that better clarify through pictures, the contemporary, high-tech design intent adopted by the City of Dublin for the area. It is envisioned that the EAZ will be home to organizations who desire a clearly defined image and deal with research and development and other disciplines related to technology. The general Intent of the EAZ Plan and related regulations is that the size and height of buildings combined with geographic proximity to U.S. 33 will determine a general level of detail and complexity that will be required for future development. comfortably within the design goals or the EAZ The section provides a point of reference identifying acceptability bythe City of Dublin to reinforce an understanding of expectations that will simplify the approval process for those wanting to build within the EAZ. The consideration of buildings has been divided into four types of buildings: %> One-story buildingswith regular footprints One-story buildingswith large footprints Multi -story buildings with regular footprints Multi -story buildings with large footprints The four categories or typologies are Intended to differentiate the general characteristics of differenttypes of users 62 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE and the related level of architectural complexity that is usually associated with such building types. One -story and multi- story buildings with regular footprints typically accommodate uses such as medical, research, education, personal services and retail. Large footprint buildings with multiple stories generally focus on larger office and research uses, while in contrast, those that are one story typically incorporate light manufacturing, clean assembly, distribution and warehouse uses. Because of the significant size, some aesthetic requirements may be more liberally applied for manufacturing - type structures. The land use component of the EAZ Plan, however, identifies the appropriateness of such uses as being more remote from U.S. 33 and more proximate to rail facilities. A subsequent section on Integrating Architectural Components is meant to help spur the imagination of owners, developers and architects toward targeted investment in architectural elements that may effectively inject innovation and quality into the design of buildings. These examples act as tools to show what others have done to respond to designated style. Associated images are meant to spur new ideas and innovative design, but none are mandated approaches. Each design team must make decisions as to the architectural direction for their project. Based on specific needs, aesthetic preferences and construction budgets, all of the presented ideas can encourage new approaches and can be applied or modified to fit most any reasonable budget by how they are executed or by the extent of the quantities of materials used. Buildings in the EAZ should be individually unique while matching a larger architectural style. Creating Architectural Identity 63 N 'N 'X 'N N 'N Im Benchmark Buildings Benchmark buildings outline visual approaches welcomed within the Economic Advancement Zone by meeting the general development goals to respond in a technological style that is designated for the area. Each component has particular strengths and weaknesses, but taken as a whole architectural composition, are acceptable expressions for the area. Just because a particular detail might exist within the EAZ, does not necessarily mean the detail will be universally appropriate for any building. It is the total composition of architectural elements that are combined to derive an acceptable building design matching the contemporary style. 64 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Smaller building pryes that are one slery in height normally have greater opportunity for are teneelmtlen. Beauve N the relative are upgraded entrance and ecedal architectural feature an have aelinlnant Impact on the overall equal Quality of the building. Gwen their lewekbine proule roof tour¢ are often Integrated Into the deedn to increase the perceived height and to create aelmt all become Cal R¢hiactunl di 65 Regular Footprint Buildings lOneStary) WN i t Von Regular Footprint Buildings (Multi- Story) Buildings with smaller footprints that have more than one story often include more fenestration. Because of the general size and typical uses, enhanced focus on entrances and architectural features such as multi -story atriums and glass - enclosed stairways open to view from the exterior can add to the overall visual quality of the building. The larger height of buildings in this category provides a much stronger presence to the skyline and can make a better architectural statement that will reinforce the prestige and visibility of businesses. 66 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE -A Large Footprint Buildings (One Story) Large, one story buildings provide more significant challenges when utilizing just a four -sided rectangular footprint. Greater care and attention must be paid to break up the perceived monotony of long, continuous fapades. The use of clustered, rectangular or irregularly shaped footprints to establish the necessary building size can significantly improve the overall visual quality. Opportunities to vary wall heights, materials, colors, textures and even the amount of detail from one component of a cluster to another can provide more latitude for innovation within the design. Uses in this category may have industrial bay construction with electrically lit spaces. Using day lighting creatively can add interesting detail to the exterior walls and save energy costs over the long run. Energy conserving rooftop components placed near the building perimeter can also enhance the fapade if aesthetically screened or composed. Please refer to the section Special Considerations for Large Footprint Buildings for more information. Creating Architectural Identity 67 E These types of buildings often require a higher design quality because of the need to attract multiple tenants or are Institutional uses and, because of their large sizes, they have major presence within the visual environment Just Tike multi -story, regular footprint buildings, upgraded entrances and special architectural features such as multi -story atriums and glass enclosed stairways open to view from the exterior can add to the overall visual richness of the building. Also, because of their commanding presence, there IC an opportunity to create more variation usini treatments in one area that differs from other areas of the fapade. This can create a building that feels more like a clustering of different but compatible buildings rather than one, large single design expression. 7 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE �10 A 6 Il l 0 Large Footprint Buildings (Multi- Story) ENNN \ N , RNMEN Special Considerations for Large Buildings Buildings with footprints larger than 40,000 square feet in size can have a range of uses that may include, but are not limited to light or clean manufacturing, assembly, warehousing and distribution. Areas designated on the EAZ Land Use Plan as "Research Assembly" located in western portions of the EAZ will be given special consideration and flexibility. Realizing that a high level of detail on long facades can be cost prohibitive, particularly for manufacturing -type uses, the City of Dublin will work with the development community to find a reasonable balance between construction cost and the character and quality expected by the community in the EAZ. Consider the following when designing facilities in this category: Avoid long, continuous, uninterrupted fapade treatments by introducing variations such as wall plane offsets, wall heights or parapet treatments, roof overhangs, window clusters, and groupings of significant vertical landscaping elements along the wall. Also consider wall color, wall patterns and /or textures, material changes and architectural features such as canopies, covered entrances or other decorative elements. Upgrade smaller, special portions of the fapade such as entrances, offices on the perimeter or display areas to a much higher level of quality and have them face the public way. Creating Architectural Identity 69 70 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE » Utilize more creative, aesthetically pleasing sign approaches such as backlit, three dimensional pin mounted letters, more interesting letter types, or introduce artistically developed logos into the sign composition where possible. » Integrate more creative use of windows in interesting patterns or clusters, Use projected windows, enhanced louvers, wall lighting, wall lighting fixtures, penetrations, creative security camera applications, vents or sunscreens and other energy saving devices. » Exterior, free standing walls that enclose outdoor storage or other functional exterior areas can become architectural features to enrich the building's exterior through creative design approaches. Since these walls do not have the same functional responsibilities as building walls, they are more free to be curved, sculpted, patterned with penetrations, and colored at a lower cost. » Some flat roof areas near the perimeter can have rooftop equipment locations with architectural screens as part of the fagade's design composition to create interest and to vary rooflines. ders; ■.,I ■. N Office components of larger buildings should receive additional architectural focus. Creating Architectural Identity 71 Integrating Architectural Components Architectural Components are a compilation of many individual elements that, when properly composed, create a finished building. Each component when developed as part of a thoughtful and innovative composition has the potential to increase to design buildings in a contemporary way that is suitable for a high - technology environment. The intention of this section the uniqueness of an individual building. Images of key architectural components provide a means to visually illustrate a number of ways that others have chosen Building Form The most critical of elements, building form, starts with a simple, rectangular box. The resulting architecture is a box that is normally clad in a variety of materials, windows, door penetrations and other architectural elements that provide character. The choice of building forms is one of the strongest drivers as to the final imagery of the building, and the difference of one large form versus multiple forms can have a large impact on the amount of fenestration and types of materials and colors required to develop an attractive building. Use of angular or curvilinear forms that break up the basic rectangular form can provide an innovative look and feel. is to show innovative approaches or options that can inspire those developing within the Economic Advancement Zone. Rethinking the standard ways of using these components can have a dramatic and pleasing outcome that meets character objectives in a cost- effective manner. 72 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Building Structure The structural components of any building serve an important function to support all the planes that provide enclosure for the building as well as floors and other elements. In a contemporary, high tech environment they can also contribute to the building's aesthetics by being part of the exterior composition. L k Creating. Architectural Identity 73 74 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Entrances Entrances are an incredibly important part of any building. They usually are the first part of a building where a visitor has close contact and the design can convey a strong message about the occupying organization. Since the entrance is such a small part of an overall building, the relatively small investment for upgrading this area can yield large returns in the visitor's favorable first impressions by highlighting projections, form, color and /or materials: V :.. Wa F � Patterns with Color and Texture Just about any exterior wall material can be used to create single color and texture, monolithic planes for enclosing the building. These planes can be composed of brick, stucco, EFIS, metal panels, pre- cast concrete, tilt panel concrete, stone, glass, decorative architectural block and frost proof tiles. Oftentimes, a wall plane can rise to a higher level of interest without additional cost by carefully considering the use of textures and colors to create regular or irregular patterns. Even large walls can be made to look smaller in scale if appropriately designed. Creating Architectural Identity 75 Roofs and Rooftop Mechanicals Roofs and rooftop forms are a great opportunity to develop a unique design character for a building. Rooftop mechanical equipment is required to be screened from ground level views, so walls or parapets to hide the larger pieces of equipment often appear just as plain rooftop boxes. Thoughtful integration of roof forms and screens can add much richness to the overall design with little impact to project cost. 76 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE The Use of Shadow and Sunscreens There is great opportunity to enrich a fapade by using shadows and solar shading. Projections and recesses on the fapade can create interesting patterns. Sun screens and deep roof overhangs can reduce the amount of energy a building uses and can effectively create architectural lines that increase the contemporary appearance of a building. Creating Architectural Identity 77 MIR- OF- 111011111 MIN The Use of Shadow and Sunscreens There is great opportunity to enrich a fapade by using shadows and solar shading. Projections and recesses on the fapade can create interesting patterns. Sun screens and deep roof overhangs can reduce the amount of energy a building uses and can effectively create architectural lines that increase the contemporary appearance of a building. Creating Architectural Identity 77 The main purpose of windows is to allow light into a building's interior and to permit views Into the outside environment. Windows can be used in very pragmatic, repetitive patterns that are the norm. They can also be used in very creative ways that enrich the fagade through placement and shape. Windows can be used as a primary focal point or to help reinforce or enhance other architectural features. Li !40 1 d Y Ell 78 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Window Applications U The Use of Glass Glass is commonly used as an exterior cladding material for buildings beyond just windows. Technology has provided the architect with clear glass, tinted glass, reflective glass, translucent glass, energy saving glass, insulated glass and laminated glass that can be used for various levels of shading or textures. In a contemporary building environment, there is a greater opportunity to take advantage of these advancements in technology. Creating Architectural Identity 79 The Use of Architectural Metal The use of metal panels in contemporary architecture is quite common. They can provide a cost effective enclosure and can have characteristics not easily found in other building materials such as a sheen from a metallic coating or pronounced shadow lines. Metal panels commonly found in pre - engineered buildings such as long span, fluted or ribbed panels running vertically are strongly discouraged. In fact, the use of any ribbed metal panel 80 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE with the ribs running vertically poses a particular design challenge. Since they can be so cost effective, many barns, storage facilities, heavy manufacturing or similar facilities utilize the panels in this way. Use of vertical ribbed panels can often place a building into the same category as those uses that are not desired in the EAZ. Its application should be carefully considered as a secondary material or disregarded for more appropriate applications. W 11 t 4 Cy` ; : l �'.i ESTABLISHING A LANDSCAPE LANGUAGE While architecture can establish the overall character of the built environment, the landscape or setting upon which buildings are placed equally defines the look and feel of an area. The EAZ is situated on the edge of wide open agricultural areas with woodland, wetland, fencerows and minor water features. The EAZ provides an opportunity to build upon existing parkland to create a different experience unlike other areas of Dublin. Landscape of the EAZ Design emphasis for the EAZ should take cues from the surrounding area and focus to blend public space design with the private landscape. With two stream corridors in the area, design character in the EAZ should convey a more naturalized feel that can contrast the contemporary nature of buildings. As part of an overall design intent to establish a contradiction or interplay between man and nature, the following design components should be considered with every project: Extending planting design from rights -of- way into private space with an emphasis on low -mow or links grasses to create a more naturalized appearance. Establishing a Landscape Language 81 TILE EAZ will 131 a relaxing Wark envirsumentwhere seeing the autdQms 13 an amenity. x Using ribbons or swaths of naturalized x Focusing on native plant species and plantings and grasses perpendicular to plantings in informal clumps and clusters the right -of -way to create a progression of to enhance the informal feel of the spaces as one travels along roads, multi- landscape instead of evenly spaced use paths or sidewalks. plantings. x Using mass naturalized plantings to establish a framework for defining formal spaces in key locations around buildings, limiting overall maintenance needs. x Using defined, formal spaces to highlight building entrances and programmed space in a way that sharply contrasts with the overall natural character. x Planting informal fencerows and hedgerows where necessary to define spaces and shape or direct views. x Utilize existing fencerows and riparian corridors as a way to extend natural features into the design of a site. "Look deep into nature and then you will understand everything better" Albert Einstein 82 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE General Site Considerations As an area focused on the character of a natural landscape, designs for the EAZ are intended to sharply contrast with other areas of the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor. The Bridge Street Corridor is expected to facilitate very intense development patterns in a more urban character. Other portions of the COIC include more traditional suburban design character with setbacks, buffering and more formal, maintained landscaping. The EAZ is intended to foster more suburban - like development patterns that will complement the Bridge Street Corridor in a visually unique manner, given its location along the western edge of the city near open space and wetlands. The context of the EAZ is a natural landscape with more traditional suburban approaches to site layout. Planning considerations for development projects should include the following general components to foster a cohesive technology- focused employment area: » Industrial flex space and research manufacturing facilities should place office components in locations that can be prominently designed and visible from the public realm. » Employee and service parking should be located to the side and rear of buildings to limit visual impacts. » Service docks and loading areas, particularly those with large overhead doors should be placed to the side and rear (preferred) to limit visibility from public streets. Shared service areas screened by architecture are also preferred. » Limited visitor parking may be placed in front of buildings, but should be screened by areas of links or low mow grasses and additional plantings to reduce visual impact and maintain focus on building architecture. » Primary entrances should be oriented toward and /or visible from the public street to enhance identity and wayfinding. » All facilities must provide bicycle racks to promote the area's emphasis on bicycle access, walkability and alternative commuting. Establishing a Landscape Language 83 EAZ Key Identity Elements I �I 33 0 S O YQ G i Y D � O C i�4 Key Identity Elements Primary Gateways Secondary Gateways { �+ Future Public Art Locations l Proposed Road Network Optional Future Road Network f• Existing Greenways o Proposed Greenway Extensions Q Economic Advancement Zone c 0 �g 84 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE 0 g a Io c' NATUR -- t � I m 3 c DRIVE r PERIM D 0 0 A C T DUBLIN METHODIST HOSPITAL WOERNER TEMPLE ROAD i` 1r_ PAYING ATTENTION TO DETAIL "It's the details that count," is an adage in life that is absolutely true. Attention to detail can have a profound impact on creating an image that sets the EAZ apart from other locations. Plans are intended to establish the area as a very definable geographic area unique from other areas of Dublin. Smaller visual elements of all kinds should be used to evoke the general theme of technology and advancement and its contrast with the surrounding environment through both materials and design. First Impressions and Finding Your Way Gateway locations provide the first visual cues for people travelling to the EAZ. Features and entry signs should be designed in a manner that coordinates with architecture and landscape themes by combining cutting -edge sign shapes and materials with striking landscaping within a naturalized backdrop. Larger integration of branding for the COIC and /or City of Dublin should be considered to denote the EAZ's larger context, particularly considering efforts in the Bridge Street Corridor as the other primary bookend along the SR 161 in the COIC. Once into the EAZ, employees and visitors should be able to clearly navigate and find destinations. Implementation of unique street signs and other directional wayfinding signs within the EAZ should clearly and succinctly provide direction with the same level of character as major gateway signs. Private identification signs should utilize the same general design parameters and are encouraged to use materials and design that will reflect the innovative character of the area. Paying Attention to Detail 85 wqn R U P-R R J1 ,1 1 ' I d SR 161 at Industrial Parkway (looking eastward) 86 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE i` r %-- ix C V ` ,4 InnovationVillage Entry feature and wayfinding signs in the EAZ should implement a contemporary look with material such as chrome and other metals that feel high - tech. Paying Attention to Detail 87 Highlighting the Public Realm Once passing gateway locations, visitors should clearly identify that the public realm and its greenways, parks and rights -of -way epitomize the EATS defined character. Specifically, public art and streetscape elements should be used to reinforce contemporary architectural style within the context of the natural landscape. Public Art As a visual focal point, public art should be placed in key locations that enhance awareness and serve as landmarks for the area. Art should be coordinated or programmed as part of capital projects and be emphasized along key arterials to reinforce gateway locations. Coordination should be sought to provide sites that can encourage the implementation of appropriately themed art through the Dublin Arts Council. Likewise, corporate art should also be highly encouraged to capitalize on public investments in the area in places like roundabouts and park space. Architecture visible from U.S. 33 should also be contemplated as opportunities for art through architectural expression. Architectural elements, sculpture and lighting should enhance the visual context. Public art should dot the area and establish public awareness of the EAZ. 88 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Streetscape Elements Objects within the public right -of -way can either reinforce a desired character or create a lost opportunity. Elements ranging from benches, shelters, kiosks, trash cans, bus stop shelters, lighting and other components should all enhance design and provide consistency. Streetscape elements should be programmed and implemented in conjunction with park and Streetscape elements should mirror the character of architecture and identification signs. roadway improvements,. Private businesses should also be encouraged to utilize streetscape elements to further extend the overall design character into private space. Consistent with the ideals of technology, advancement and contemporary design, the Metro 40 Collection from Landscape Forms provides a prototype that meets the innovative and contemporary character of the EAZ. Two versions of streetscape furniture (all metal and metal with wood) can be used to differentiate between public and private applications. Paying Attention to Detail 89 , '7 A�� fF 7 y. - �� � � � � �-_ �. � � ilk � � i � l � J� �. l ' y/- �(� � � ��,� r ✓� �'- Avery Road at Shier Rings Road (looking westward) 90 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE 14{ IMPLEMENTING THE VISION While the 2007 Dublin Community Plan established the general policy framework for development, the EAZ Plan is a specific action plan to carry out a vision and encourage appropriate development. Building upon current successes in the EAZ must not only include the implementation of specific planning elements as defined in the Plan, but must also consider how the EAZ can gain a competitive marketing edge from other competitors in the region and also be recognized outside of Central Ohio. The following are specific action items that will be prioritized and carried out to ensure the general vision of the EAZ Plan is realized: Actions to Implement the EAZ Plan Land Use 1. Update use and development 2. Refine the Zoning Code to establish a 3. Integrate a Height Regulating Plan regulations in the Zoning Code to Research Support Zone that provides as part of administrative review require general compliance with the opportunity for retail and other support requirements to ensure compatibility EAZ Land Use Plan. services at appropriate locations, as with residential areas. designated by the Plan. mplementing the Vision 91 Transportation 4. Continue regional efforts to expedite interchange upgrades to maximize long -term accessibility for the area. 5. Integrate the dedication of rights - of -way or create reimbursement mechanisms to complete major improvements as part of the development process. 6. Proactively work with property owners to plat key rights -of -way that will establish the U.S. 33 reliever. 7. Program key phases of road and related improvements adjacent to SR 161 necessary to establish marketable front door appearances and make sites ready to build. Transit Options 8. Use the EAZ Plan as a guide to upgrade regional transit plans for Dublin and to work cooperatively with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA). 9. Ensure that road improvements will easily accommodate the integration of transit over time. 10. Finalize a city -wide image for how transit will function outside the EAZ to ensure proper coordination. Utilities 11. Program key water and sewer extensions along with road improvements to enable municipal owned sites to be more easily subdivided for development. 12. Remove the Post Road water tank to create additional land suitable for development along SR 161. 13. Continue pursuing the potential for dual power providers within the EAZ and ensure that the additional substation is constructed as needed. Broadband & Technology Continue promoting the City's successes with broadband and WiFito its greatest potential. 15. Pursue future partnerships with local high schools, technical schools and colleges to promote tech -based learning within the EAZ. Open Space and Bikeways 16. Ensure vital greenway connections are dedicated or provided as easements as part of the administrative review of development proposals. 17. Program important segments of multi -use paths for completion in conjunction with development or as part of road construction. Architecture 18. Ensure the desired contemporary style for the EAZ is adequately applied to set a new image for the area. 19. Use the EAZ Plan as a pattern book to complement zoning regulations and establish a general bar for architectural design quality based upon the specific locations within the EAZ. Landscape Character and Design 20. Ensure landscape plans for individual sites meet the general intent of the Plan to create a lower- maintenance environment with an overall natural feel. 92 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE KNEN %N\XNE\\\'\\'\\\N\N\\\ 21. Encourage private design to extend the character of the right -of -way into the site as a design cue to create a more seamless transition between public and private space. 22. Use general site design techniques described within the Plan as a general measure of appropriate site layout. Design Details Actions to Make the EAZ more Sustainable 26. Encourage or incentivize alternative site design methods that are more consistent with the general character of the EAZ. 27 Encourage alternative architectural design that integrates sustainable design elements. Actions to Establish the Regulatory Framework 30. Update zoning codes for the EAZ to promote the quick, administrative process that is desired for the area. 31. Revise annexation procedures to pre - zone properties into the EAZ instead of utilizing a holding zone. Work with the Dublin Arts Council 28, Consider a package of economic to program identified sites for public development and zoning incentives to art as part of the Art in Public Places facilitate implementation of sustainable program. design components 24. Program key entry features and related streetscape elements along SR 161 to begin establishing a front door appearance for the EAZ. 25. Consider incentives for the implementation of corporate art as an important visual amenity for the area. 29. Study the shared use of public space to see how park facilities and greenways can be used to create amenities and/ or public - private partnerships for renewable energies such as geothermal, solar and wind power. 32. Ensure subdivision regulations can adequately facilitate administrative splits of property necessary for the expedited approval process. 33. Consider implementing zoning incentives, where applicable, to help implement key elements of the EAZ Plan. mplementing the Vision 93 Actions to Partner with Property Owners 34. Work jointly with landholders to help market properties and establish greater dialogue. 35. Implement a data base and contact system that will allow for faster sharing of information about individual properties and potential development leads. 36. Create a City point -of- contact for all property owners to coordinate Economic Development and Planning efforts for the area. Actions to Promote the Vision 37 Promote partnerships in the EAZ with educational institutions and business organizations. 38. Finalize efforts to market and advertise the significant regulatory, planning and economic development changes in the EAZ to the Central Ohio development community. 39. Update marketing packages to promote the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor Business Neighborhood Concept and the benefits of the EAZ and refine plans to maintain continual public awareness of the EAZ and larger COIC. Actions to Assist the Development Community 40. Establish a comprehensive development web portal to promote the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor and the EAZ. 41. Integrate the ability to conduct property searches to more quickly align business leads with landholders. 42. Seek out real estate brokers, developers and designers from outside the Central Ohio region who might have interest in the EAZ and could match the style of growth desired. 94 ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT ZONE Actions to Program Key Projects 43. Discuss updates to the CIP and establish a project shortlist that will be proposed and funded in both the next year and throughout the remainder of the 5 -year program to continue forward movement. 44. Establish a TIF district for the entire EAZ that will target major projects and public improvements identified through the Plan. Actions to Enhance Growth Incentives 45. Enhance promotion of the City's idea for a speed -to -build environment and custom - tailored incentives as benefits to each individual company. 46. Analyze current incentive types and consider new tools for future implementation such as abatements, environmental design bonuses and other mechanisms not elsewhere applied in Dublin. 47. Consider a package of development incentives to be uniquely offered in the EAZ that can augment the City's custom - tailored approach, and set the area apart as being unique. mplementingthe Vision 95 COIL -M--NN---- The Planning and Zoning Commission took the following action at this meeting: 2. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan Community Plan Amendment 11- 010ADM Proposal: An area plan defining the future development character of for land within the general area of Shier -Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33, Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Request: Review and recommendation of approval of a Community Plan amendment under the provisions of Zoning Code Sections 153.232 and 153.234. Applicant: Marsha I. Grigsby, City Manager, City of Dublin. Planning Contact: Carson Combs, ADO, ASLA, Senior Planner. Contact Information: (614) 410-4669, ccombs @dublin.oh.us MOTION: To recommend approval to City Council of this Community Plan Amendment adding the COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) plan. VOTE: 7 -0. RESULT: Approval of this Community Plan Amendment will be recommended to City Council. STAFF CERTIFICATION Carson Combs, ADO, ASLA Senior Planner PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION RECORD OF DISCUSSION CITY OF DUBLIN.. APRIL 21, 2011 rand u.eenn unv xwve PkmYy SBA SkerRin n.Ohia AAI1Y36 OObf 1 61236 Phcne /1DD: 6141j6 =47 Pox: 61 bJ Web Sft �.dublin.Oh.W CreagngaLegacy The Planning and Zoning Commission took the following action at this meeting: 2. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan Community Plan Amendment 11- 010ADM Proposal: An area plan defining the future development character of for land within the general area of Shier -Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33, Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Request: Review and recommendation of approval of a Community Plan amendment under the provisions of Zoning Code Sections 153.232 and 153.234. Applicant: Marsha I. Grigsby, City Manager, City of Dublin. Planning Contact: Carson Combs, ADO, ASLA, Senior Planner. Contact Information: (614) 410-4669, ccombs @dublin.oh.us MOTION: To recommend approval to City Council of this Community Plan Amendment adding the COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) plan. VOTE: 7 -0. RESULT: Approval of this Community Plan Amendment will be recommended to City Council. STAFF CERTIFICATION Carson Combs, ADO, ASLA Senior Planner DUBLIN PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION CM OF DUBLIN. MEETING MINUTES ,. "w": ft °�o APRIL 21, 2011 Oabk Ohfo U 111M Ph.-I ID : 61 u16 W Pox: 61b41 47 W¢USX¢: wrm.'AUblln oM1 us 2. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan Community Plan Amendment 11- O10ADM Ms. Amorose Groomes said this case to review the Economic Advancement Zone Plan as part of the Community Plan to defining the future character within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south and Post Road to the north, US 33 and Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. She said the Commission will need to make a recommendation to City Council for fina I action. Carson Combs said at the last meeting the Commission reviewed the first eighty pages of the document. The packet includes the last three sections including the landscaping elements, streetscape /gateway design options and details, and the implementation chapter which outlines the action items intended to carry out the Plan. Mr. Combs said the first section outlines major objectives for landscaping, which focuses on creating an informal character, given the presence of Glacier Ridge and the Golf Club of Dublin and related naturalized areas. The Plan also includes general recommendations for site planning and design so that property owners and developers have clear expectations that can be carried forward to the Zoning Code. Mr. Combs said the next section of the Plan includes gateways and entry features. He said a map provides key locations to promote primary and secondary entrance treatments and potential sites for public art. Mr. Combs said renderings in the plan provide an idea as to the design character, including prototypes for signs and wayfinding elements, Including directional and street signs. Mr. Combs said the last section focuses on how the vision for the EAZ should be implemented. He said there are implementation topics that go beyond the sections of the Plan to address elements such as sustainability, regulatory frameworks and working with property owners and developers to promote the EAZ. He said that Implementation also looks at the CIP, funding and incentives as the Plan's implementation moves forward. Ms. Amorose Groomes asked if there were anyone that would like to speak to this application. Jeff Weingarden, 7455 Cosgray Road at the southwest corner of SR 161, asked about the future of his property and the intersection. Mr. Combs said that both the Community Plan and the EAZ Plan expect that SR 161 will be widened similar to Emerald Parkway out to Houchard Road. He said that the EAZ Plan also indicates that Cosgray Road will be upgraded to an arterial level based upon expected land uses (similar to the Thoroughfare Plan). He said that the EAZ Plan calls for flex development In the vicinity of the Intersection and that there Is potential for more dense, multi -story development because of frontage along SR 161. He said properties to the Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 21, 2011 - Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 5 north are within Jerome Township and that projections in the Plan indicate the area will likely be research support uses. Mr. Weingarden said SRI 61 has been widened toward Cosgray and it tapers to a small area at Cosgray. He said that they are surrounded by Jerome Township, Columbus, Amlin and Dublin and asked who will control the area in the future. Mr. Combs said that Dublin's exclusive service area extends to Houchard Road on the south side of SR 161. He said that the City's establishes plans for this area, given the potential for extending public services in the future. He said that Columbus has an exclusive service corridor on the west side of Houchard Road to the Madison County line and that areas just north of SR 161 are part of a joint- service agreement between Columbus and Dublin. He said that the agreement clarifies annexation and service issues, but it is up to the individual property owner to request annexation into Dublin. Mr. Weingarden said he learned today that the City of Dublin purchased three acres of land along SR 161 east of Cosgray Road for a total of $600,000. He also asked if there�s a plan to move Cosgray Road. - Dana McDaniel, Deputy City Manager, stated that he is referring to the Powamo property and that the purchase was to settle a lawsuit regarding right -of -way necessary to complete the SR 161 widening. He said the City had won on appeal and that the information was just released. Mr. McDaniel said that the City is not proposing to shift Cosgray Road, but that a widening is possible in the future, as indicated in the plans. Jenny Weingarden said she heard that both SR 161 and Cosgray Road at some point will be widened and that the improvements will impact their property. She said they met with Paul Hammersmith and that the right -of -way would be within ten feet of their house. She asked why their property was so unimportant that the road improvements would come that close to the front porch on their historic home. Mr. McDaniel said that any jurisdiction, whether Dublin, the county or State of Ohio, would need to work through any property acquisition as part of a widening project. Ms. Weingarden said they were told by previous owners that the right -of -way was already purchased to within ten feet of the residence and that any widening could just happen to within ten feet of the building. She said that a fatality occurred at that corner in 2006 and that it will be even more an issue if the road is widened. She noted that the plan indicated a roundabout at the intersection. Ms. Amorose Groomes said the concerns are valid and assured them that if it is not owned by the City, they would have to buy it and there would be a value assessed. She said that every real estate transaction requires a survey and closing documents that would denote the location of property lines. She said that issue is not the purview of the Commission. Mr. Weingarden said they are concerned and can share a picture of a car resting on the telephone guy wire on the property just six feet from the house. He said that the old Dublin Woodship and a gas station used to be located at the east corner until a semi accident took out the house. He agreed that they should have gotten the information when closing on the home, but did not. Mr. Weingarden said if this plan goes forward there will be problems. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 21, 2011 - Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 5 Ms. Amorose Groomes said that property acquisition would be considered by City Council, and they will hear this testimony and said they are good about looking at what they need to acquire She asked if there were anyone else to speak. John McCoughly, 6939 Shier Rings Road, said he is concerned with traffic on Shier Rings Road. He said that coming to the meeting, someone passed him illegally and that traffic on the road is getting out of control. He said he hopes future planning will address the problem. Mr. Combs said that feedback from Ballantrae and Shier Oaks has clearly identified traffic issues at Cosgray and along Shier Rings Road. He said the City is in the process of making improvements at Cosgray and Shier Rings to address safety concerns. Mr. Combs said the EAZ Plan and the redirection of Shier Rings north to Industrial Parkway focuses on separating out employment traffic from the local neighborhoods to reduce impact. Mr. Combs noted that additional web input was received regarding a correction to a road name and that a second person emphasized maintaining east -west connectivity through the area. He noted that the final version of the plan would also show an optional connection where Shier Rings is redirected, as well as showing other optional segments such as the connector through Darree Fields and an alternative for Eiterman Road, depending upon the type and size of future development. Ms. Amorose Groomes asked if there were anyone else that would like to speak. [There were none.] Mr. Fishman said he assumes there are bike paths and bike lanes planned with the roads. Mr. Combs said the Plan has a very comprehensive system of paths and bikelanes throughout the EAZ. He said that the EAZ is a targeted area within the City where bike connectivity will be fully promoted. Mr. Budde said he really likes the plan and he commends them for the work. He said it is nicely done. Ms. Kramb said her only concern is on page 96 where it suggests billboard advertising. She said that she does not want them in the Plan. Mr. Combs said that during the process, options for how to market the COIC were being contemplated, and that there is an existing billboard within the EAZ in the township. He said that there are none proposed, but were proposing to use existing space within the EAZ to the City's benefit. Ms. :morose Groo ere wording may be needed to get to the intent; Mr. McDaniel said it will be removed. °% Mr. Hardt said he likes the plan and appreciates the work that has gone into it. He said the presentations have been very well put together and are appreciated. Ms. Amorose Groomes said they have discussed landscape code updates for survivability purposes in urban areas and for street trees and that the plan talks specifically about landscaping. She said the Plan does not talk about the vision for tree plantings in urban areas, including parking lot islands and plant materials around foundations. She said she would like to see language of how those areas should be treated to encourage better plant survival. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 21, 2011 - Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 5 Ms. Amorose Groomes said she would like to address the stripping and sale of top soil, particularly for those areas where they Plan calls for indigenous materials. She said stripping top soil prior to development is a common practice to make money, but would hinder the success of more native materials. Mr. Combs said that language could be considered as it moves to Council Mr. McDaniel said he agrees and suggested that these issues may be better addressed in the landscape code as a city -wide issue. He said that staff could look at the issue. Ms. Amorose Groomes said it would be her preference, but the request has not progressed to date. She asked that properties be subject to the general landscape code and screening requirements. Mr. Combs said the next phase of the EAZ project will include updating the Code for the EAZ. He said the proposed Code will address any necessary changes or it will be referred through the general Code. - Mr. Fishman said the issue was previously discussed and wertfnowhere. He said that Councilman Reiner wanted top soil that was removed to be replaced as part of the process. Ms. Amorose Groomes said that the soil p is disturbed when you re- spread topsoil after construction. Mr. Combs said the intent of the Plan is for key environmentaf f ures such as riparian corridors, tree rows or woodlots to be kept in place and not disturbed during construction. He said that with most areas being agricultural, it is anticipated that many areas will be disturbed to address storm water and other construction issues. Ms. Amorose Groomes said if the issues can be taken care of as part of the general Code, she is in agreement. She said that stripping of topsoil for the purpose of sales in this area should not be permitted. She said this part of town has some of the richest top soil in the city and there is a high market value if someone wants to exploit it. Mr. McDaniel said staff will study the issue further. Mr. Hardt said topsoil is a complex issue and he agrees with the idea that we don't want someone to strip a large property clear. However, when you build on a site you cannot put a building or parking lot on top of the topsoil, so there is a certain amount that must occur. He said that the preference is to have a site balance where the same amount of soil that is picked up is used on the property. Mr. Hardt said the landscape code is the appropriate place to address the issue. Ms. Amorose Groomes said it is important to determine the areas of the site that are important to maintain areas not critical to the construction and to find a balance. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 21, 2011 - Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 5 Motion and Vote Mr. Taylor made a motion to approve and Mr. Zimmerman seconded. The vote was as follows: Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Budde, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Hardt, yes; Mr. Fishman, yes; Mr. Zimmerman, yes; and Mr. Taylor, yes. (Approved 7 - 0.) Ms. Amorose Groomes thanked Mr. Combs and said it was a very well done project. City of Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission CM OF DUBLIN. Planning Report o,h. `. o e .M -ino Thursday, April 21, 2011 M S.o'iPh'R00tl OObin. Oho 4W in, Phone/ MD 61"10 MW IF-61 La= Administrative Review - Economic Advancement Zone Plan wW Sile:— &blln.Ohm Case Summary Agenda Item 2 Case Number 11 -0IOADM Proposal An area plan defining the future development character for land within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33/ Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Applicant Marsha I. Grigsby, City Manager, City of Dublin. Case Manager Carson Combs, AICC ASLA, Senior Planner 1 (614) 4144669 ccombs @dublln.oh.us Request Review and recommendation of approval of a Community Plan amendment under the provisions of Zoning Code Sections 153.232 and 153.234. Planning Recommendation Approval. As a further refinement of the US 33 Corridor Area Plan in the 2007 Dublin Community Plan, the proposed planning document will guide development for over 1,1CC acres targeted for future employment growth. The Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan provides a clear framework by which both private and public Interests can be pursued toward a common goal to effectively manage and plan Infrastructure needs in d manner which will encourage growth. The EAZ Plan completes the first of three steps in preparing the area for technology- related development. Planning recommends approval of this application. City of Dublin I Planning and Zoning Commission Case 11- 010ADM I Community Plan Amendment— Economic Advancement Zone Plan Thursday, Apnl21, 2011 I Page 3 of 4 'fanning presented an overview of the EAZ Plan on March 3, 2011, Dutlining public input and the project timeline as directed by City Council. = eedback from the Commission included a desire to ensure coordinated bikeway /greenway connectivity across US 33, sensitivity to surrounding esidential neighborhoods, and maintenance of park space with long ange options for transit connections along the railroad. On April 7, 2011, he Commission provided positive feedback during its review of the najority of the Planning document. Facts Plan Adoption and Community Plan Amendment Case Summary This is a request for review and recommendation to City Council to adopt the Economic Advancement Zone Plan as an implementation element and further refine the US 33 Corridor Area Plan in Chapter 3 of the 2007 Dublin Community Plan. The EAZ Plan will provide more detailed and specific planning and policy direction for southern portions of the Area Plan which will be implemented through zoning administration, capital programming and other defined mechanisms. Case Background City Council has directed the expedited completion of a plan and zoning requirements for the Economic Advancement Zone as part of the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor designated for the administrative approval for "quick -to- build projects. The EAZ Plan is an implementation document intended to consider future infrastructure and design needs to market and brand the area, appropriately plan capital needs, and foster increased development activity. The EAZ Plan is the first in a three step process to prepare the area for development. The next step, Zoning Code modifications, will be proposed to match the intent of the EAZ Plan. Finally, a City- sponsored area rezoning will be completed with the Code adoption to ensure all properties are zoned for development. Council has required all steps be completed for adoption by July 2011. Details Plan Adoption and Community Plan Amendment Process Code Section 153.232(B) (9) provides "other powers and duties" to the Planning and Zoning Commission, which includes amendments to the Community Plan. The Commission is to review amendments to the Plan as necessary and provide a recommendation of action to Council. The Commission should review the modifications, provide input, and vote on the changes. The proposed plan and Community Plan amendment will be forwarded to City Council for final action. The following discussion describes the final sections not previously reviewed, and a summary for ease of review. !I Update City of Dublin I Planning and Zoning Commission Case 11- 010ADM I Community Plan Amendment— Economic Advancement Zone Plan Thursday, Apnl21, 2011 I Page 4 of 4 Details Plan Adoption and Community Plan Amendment Establishing a Landscape Language pp. 83 -86 Paying Attention to Detail pp. 87 -92 Implementing the Vision pp. 93 -97 rr The section provides a general overview of the landscape character of the EAZ and its role in establishing a unique and well- defined image. Plans focus on the use of a naturalized landscape appearance to contrast the contemporary architecture desired for the area. provided of basic site planning elements. The plan includes an overview of the key design elements that contribute to creating a more natural appearance, balanced with a lower - maintenance landscape design, defined spaces around buildings and key programmed areas with more formal landscaping. A description is The section addresses the EAZ's image as seen from the public rights -of- way and open spaces. Gateway designs create clear entry points and a sense of separation from the surrounding area. Identification signs and wayfinding elements, architecture, and landscaping are all used to set the tone for the EAZ. The Plan includes an overview of streetscape elements which enhances the character and identity that sets the EZA apart from other areas of Dublin. The Plan identifies potential locations and encourages both public and private art throughout the EAZ. Proposed streetscape elements serve as architectural components to complement development and contrast with the natural landscape character. The EAZ Plan includes preferred design options which range from typical bench and trash receptacles to anticipated needs such as bus shelters and information boards. The streetscape furniture includes options for solar lighting to complement the environmentally conscious landscape and encourage green architectural methods. The implementation section of the EAZ Plan serves as the most important policy element of the document by outlining key directives that are necessary to carry out its planning direction. The chapter addresses actions which must occur to ensure the EAZ's success. Key action areas include cooperation with property owners, enhanced marketing, a focus o sustainabil and job creation. Plan Adoption and Community Plan Amendment Recommendation As a further refinement to the 2007 Dublin Community Plan, the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan addresses many important planning issues and sets priorities for implementation. Once adopted, the Plan will become the framework by which to update zoning regulations, zone properties for development, program capital improvements, and work with property owners to promote and market the area for development. Planning requests a positive recommendation to City Council to adopt the EAZ Plan as a n amendment to the 2007 Dublin Community Plan. Approval PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION RECORD OF ACTION CITY OF DUBLIN.. rand u.eend APRIL 7, 2011 unv xwve PkmYy SBA SkerRin OObf 1 61236 n.Ohia AAI1Y36 Pbane /1DD: 6141j6 Pox: 61 bJ =47 Web Sft �.dublin.Oh.W CreagngaLegacy The Planning and Zoning Commission took the followir� 7. COIC Economic Advancement Zone tfie 11- 010ADM Proposal: An area plan d Request Applicant: Planning Cc Contact Info MOTION: To table VOTE: 7-0. RESULT: Co N Amendment hararlq elements Rf$hi the south, Avery east, and approval of a Community Plan Sections 153.232 and 153.234. 0 Emerald Parkway, Dublin, Amendment as requested by Planning. This proposed Carson Combs, ADO, ASLA Senior Planner Community'Wn Amendment was tabled. STAFF CERTIFICATION 7. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment Chris Amorose Groomes introduced this request for review of an amendment to adopt the Economic Advancement Zone Plan, an area plan as part of the Community Plan to define the future character within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33 and Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Carson Combs, who presented this request for review suggested that since the first iteration of the Plan was 90 pages, they should review it section by section. He said the purpose of the review was to give a recommendation to City Council on the Plan's adoption. He said the Commission would focus on the general policy direction of the Plan and the mapping elements to make sure that they are headed in the right direction. He explained that there would be continual editing in terms of the content of the Plan and the text as they move forward. Mr. Combs said Planning would like to continue to refine the language until it goes to City Council. He said they were looking at an expedited timeframe, established by City Council. He said it would be reviewed tonight and then carried over to the April 21 st meeting to finish the last few sections. He said very quickly after that, they will start into the second phase which will be taking another look at the COIC Code, and updating it to match the Plan, and then the rezoning will follow right afterwards. He said some of the draft minutes from City Council were provided in the packets to provide some of their tentative discussion at their last meeting. He explained that he would provide highlights from each section they were reviewing, and afterwards, the Commissioners could provide their comments. Overview and Purpose (Pages 1 through 6) Mr. Combs explained that this section was an orientation section for people outside of Dublin to give an idea of Dublin as context to the region. He said it also talks briefly about the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor (COIC) in a large picture and how the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) is a key component of that. He said, it discusses the Entrepreneurial Center and the idea of the City trying to speed or compress the development timeline in that particular area to try to meet the needs of research firms. He said this section also outlines many of the commitments the City has already made in this area. He said some of the biggest things were the property acquisition and completion of a new water tank at Darree Fields and so the City is continually putting efforts into making sure that the area is getting ready for development. Mr. Combs said the purpose of the Plan is going to be to give development expectation for people looking to acquire or develop property or as a business, looking for sites within the area. He said we want to be able to say exactly what the City is looking for and what the expected development character should be. He said the Plan will also be used to go back and look at the Codes and make sure that the match up and are in line, so that we actually can get what we need out of the administrative zoning process. DUBLIN PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION CITY OF DUBLIN- MEETING MINUTES Land Use and Long Range Planning APRIL 7, 2011 5800 Shier -Rings Road Dublin, Ohio 43016 -1236 Phone /IDD: 614410.4600 Fox: 614 -410 -4747 Web Site www dublin.oh.us 7. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment Chris Amorose Groomes introduced this request for review of an amendment to adopt the Economic Advancement Zone Plan, an area plan as part of the Community Plan to define the future character within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33 and Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Carson Combs, who presented this request for review suggested that since the first iteration of the Plan was 90 pages, they should review it section by section. He said the purpose of the review was to give a recommendation to City Council on the Plan's adoption. He said the Commission would focus on the general policy direction of the Plan and the mapping elements to make sure that they are headed in the right direction. He explained that there would be continual editing in terms of the content of the Plan and the text as they move forward. Mr. Combs said Planning would like to continue to refine the language until it goes to City Council. He said they were looking at an expedited timeframe, established by City Council. He said it would be reviewed tonight and then carried over to the April 21 st meeting to finish the last few sections. He said very quickly after that, they will start into the second phase which will be taking another look at the COIC Code, and updating it to match the Plan, and then the rezoning will follow right afterwards. He said some of the draft minutes from City Council were provided in the packets to provide some of their tentative discussion at their last meeting. He explained that he would provide highlights from each section they were reviewing, and afterwards, the Commissioners could provide their comments. Overview and Purpose (Pages 1 through 6) Mr. Combs explained that this section was an orientation section for people outside of Dublin to give an idea of Dublin as context to the region. He said it also talks briefly about the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor (COIC) in a large picture and how the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) is a key component of that. He said, it discusses the Entrepreneurial Center and the idea of the City trying to speed or compress the development timeline in that particular area to try to meet the needs of research firms. He said this section also outlines many of the commitments the City has already made in this area. He said some of the biggest things were the property acquisition and completion of a new water tank at Darree Fields and so the City is continually putting efforts into making sure that the area is getting ready for development. Mr. Combs said the purpose of the Plan is going to be to give development expectation for people looking to acquire or develop property or as a business, looking for sites within the area. He said we want to be able to say exactly what the City is looking for and what the expected development character should be. He said the Plan will also be used to go back and look at the Codes and make sure that the match up and are in line, so that we actually can get what we need out of the administrative zoning process. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 7, 2011 -Minutes Page 2 of 7 DRAFT Mr. Combs said they are looking at the Plan for how we are going to extend infrastructure and how we prioritize those with development. He said using the Plan to update the Codes and to make sure that we are going to rezone the properties in accordance with that plan will be done. He said once the planning process is done, they are looking at this to being a marketing piece to help facilitate development of the area as well. Mr. Combs invited Commissioners' comments or questions on this section. Amy Kramb said after reading this, she thought it was a great business plan. She said if the intent was to have something that could be given to people thinking about coming here and they can learn all about what Dublin is doing, the intent has been met. She said she did not have any comments about this section. She said the target audience had been hit with the first few sections. Planning Process (Pages 7 - 10) Mr. Combs explained that this section was a brief overview of how Planning arrived at the Plan. He said Planning was taking the Community Plan as a starting point. He said a significant amount of work was done as part of the Area Planning process and Planning met specifically with the residents of Ballantrae and others within that area. He said Planning found that they already knew what the key issues were with regards to residential needs, and that was translated to the public process carried through for this. He said Planning began by engaging the property owners of some of the key parcels that they thought would be affected by some of the road improvements. He said one of the things that were very different with this project was that throughout the process, Planning had a project page on the web where everything was posted so that the public had full access to the project as it carried through, and now with the public review and adoption process. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Analyzing the EAZ (Pages 11 -14) Mr. Combs summarized that that this section was a brief inventory analysis of the area. He said the section covered four basic components, looking at an overview of the general access and the location of the EAZ, a brief overview of the basic features in the area and the services, and discussion of the idea of identity and needing to create something very different for the area that would make the EAZ very marketable and identifiable, regionally. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Outlining Opportunities (Pages 15 -18) Mr. Combs explained that this section took the US 33 Area Plan and some of the major goals outlined there and applied that to the Plan as a base point. The goals were creating a cohesive employment center, maximizing the highly visible areas and land uses, making sure that the housing choices are broadened, looking at streetscapes and pedestrian environment, making sure natural features are kept as a framework, and making sure that high quality, but flexible design standards that can accommodate the administrative process are kept. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Providing Land Use Direction (Pages 19 -27) Mr. Combs said the first section dealt with the land use scenarios that were tested and taken to the public to get some feedback. He said when they had the issues and identification phase, the three concepts were taken back to receive specific feedback based on the roadway networks and what they did to the land use patterns, access and visibility. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 7, 2011 -Minutes Page 3 of 7 DRAFT Mr. Combs said that in terms of the uses, Planning was looking at a tiered approach to development, so the areas shown in the maroon color that have direct frontage onto US 33, are more of Dublin's primary office type of architecture, higher building heights, and things that will look more prominent and create the visibility. He said moving farther west, there are lower building heights and a combination of office and different components with a little smaller scale, and a little less prominent. Mr. Combs said given the secondary nature of those sites quality architecture that would highlight that area and make it marketable was still important. He said farther to the west, Planning is looking at more of the manufacturing and assembly uses where we will get a lot of the larger footprint uses, they are going to have more of the overall industrial appearance with perhaps some beefed up office components. Mr. Combs said the Plan also looks at the ability for creating some 'mixed -use tech area' which would be a combination of office and residential uses in dark purple. He said by doing that, it gets more housetops around the park area, so people can take advantage of that at all times of day, and as well, it gives the additional ability to incorporate live -work as well as standalone office as needed. He said they are also looking at a component of that along SR 161 to augment and build off of some support services. Mr. Combs said the architecture could have a variety of mix of both stand -alone residential live -work and office. He said also, looking at a broad mix of diverse things that could go in to provide different types of housing units, so you have choices no matter what type of employee you are, but then you have housing units in the area and you can actually walk and bike to your job. Mr. Combs said to address some of the neighborhood issues, they are also looking at a range of building heights that would be appropriate. He said they looked at the comments received at the last meeting and tried to refine that a little. He said in general, in areas south of Shier -Rings Road, looking at two -story construction and then transitioning that moving towards US 33, getting into three or four stories, and then along the freeway, four plus stories is the maximum height that would be permitted. He said it allows a lot of flexibility. He said they have tried to provide the ranges that would match some of the potential high bay construction that they would see out in the assembly areas as well, as they think that would effectively transition away from Shier Oaks and Ballantrae. Mr. Combs invited Commissioners' comments or questions on this section. Richard Taylor said he appreciated the increased sensitivity to the residential area. John Hardt asked if the intent was specifically to regulate height purely based on the number of stories. Mr. Combs explained that they were looking as they write the Code to probably translate that to a 14 -foot module with some ability to waiver from that. He said they would like to be able to tie that plan to the Code, so as they are looking at it administratively, they can say, 'Okay, this is appropriate or this clearly, is not, and if it is not, you actually need to shrink the building down to an appropriate size for the adjacent uses, or find a different site.' Mr. Hardt encouraged Mr. Combs to think carefully about that because some of these types of buildings have requirements for floor -to -floor heights that are atypical. He said looking at it from the perspective of designing these buildings; he would just argue that 15 feet might me a more appropriate module, given the uses they are discussing. Mr. Combs said okay. Mr. Zimmerman asked if on the Shier -Rings Road area they were still maintaining a two -lane road system. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 7, 2011 -Minutes Page 4 of 7 DRAFT Mr. Combs said he would get to that in more detail, but the portion around Shier Oaks from Cosgray Road to Eiterman Road, they were looking to downplay that and keep it more or less in its current form. He said however, the part to the east, as that big reliever like Emerald Parkway, would be two lanes in each direction. Facilitating Access and Circulation (Pages 28 - 36) Mr. Combs gave a brief overview of this section and invited the Commissioners' comments and questions. Mr. Hardt apologized for being off - topic, and referred to the arrow pointing northwest on the US 33 Interchange graphic. He pointed out that every vehicle that made that movement towards Marysville, Honda, and Scotts eventually made the opposite movement. He asked that Engineering to please pay attention to the other direction too. Mr. McDaniel agreed that was a challenge and had the same comment. He said the engineers will say that US 33 can be widened coming eastbound, but you only get people to the problem faster. He said there are four to five phases contemplated for the whole interchange improvement for which the whole cost will probably be in the range of $50M to $60M dollars. He said the first phase would be a flyover ramp to westbound and by doing that; it actually starts to create better movement. He said actually, the widening of the eastbound is the last phase. Mr. Hardt said that was exactly why he brought it up. He said people who believe that it would only get people to the problem do not drive it. Mr. McDaniel said they would agree to disagree on that as far as phasing construction went. He said he agreed with Mr. Hardt. Mr. Hardt said as soon as you get to the 1 -270 ramp, traffic lets up and everybody gets on his or her way. He said the bottleneck was on US 33. Incorporating Transit Options (Pages 37 -44) Mr. Combs presented a summary of this section on transit. He said simultaneously, with the Bridge Street Corridor project and the general framework plan for that, Planning identified the idea for a transit corridor, so those were things that had to be worked through in detail to figure out how to link the two pieces and how with the types of development in this area to accomplish a phased approach. He said this section briefly covers COTA's role and regional light rail and how the City fits into those ideas. Mr. Combs said in terms of passenger rail, State and regionally, it looks at the Ohio Hub concept and the 3C Line concept and how Dublin would fit into that as one of the secondary links between Columbus and to the Chicago -Fort Wayne areas, up to Detroit. He said the freight rail implications for the CSX line in Dublin are also discussed in this section. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Establishing the Groundwork (Pages 49 - 52) Mr. Combs highlighted the Water and Sewer Map based on the existing and future road networks they were looking for in the area. He explained that this section provided a brief overview of services and provides mapping for the planned extensions water and sewer services to the area. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 7, 2011 -Minutes Page 5 of 7 DRAFT Emphasizing the Cutting -Edge (Pages 49 -52) Mr. Combs said this section focuses on all of the City's broadband and Wi -Fi. He said this was an area they Planning was looking to promote the DubLink system, so having broadband to access through Dub Link throughout the entire area would be something to extend along the roadway system. He said this section also discusses the Dublin Entrepreneurial Center (DEC) as being cutting edge and how we are promoting business growth and new business ideas, developing companies within Dublin. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Establishing Green Connection (Pages 53 - 56) Mr. Combs said in this section, the focus is building off existing area parks, linking them through Dublin's stream corridors, making sure all residential areas can link into that system, and make sure that when natural features cannot be used, the roadways help to make sure that people can traverse through a greenway corridor. He said the Plan clearly identifies major park amenities and open spaces in the area, based on the South Fork Indian Run and the Cosgray Ditch, looking at maintaining those as natural features, perhaps looking at stream augmentation. Mr. Combs said the primary things that Planning was looking for in addition to making sure long term, consistent with the Community Plan, that we are getting greenway links along the railroad that can go from Kyleville to the Columbus corridor. He said looking at getting area utilities into easements and downplay of the residential areas along Shier Oaks that can actually create a greenway, pedestrian corridor into Darree Fields. He said based on the road design for Eiterman Road, some greenway setbacks along the road should be included so that there can be a north -south linkage so the whole area is well - connected. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Emphasizing Bikeways (Pages 57 - 59) Mr. Combs said this section looks at this area as a special area to incorporate bike lanes on major routes, multi -use paths for recreational access, and in neighborhood streets, looking at the signed routes. He said the Plan incorporates a comprehensive look at how to overlay all of those aspects. He said mapping was done by the Dublin Bicycle Advisory Task Force and incorporated into the Plan. [There were no Commission comments or questions regarding this section.] Architectural Guide (Pages 60 -82) Mr. Combs explained that architectural identity began by getting into the pattern book component of the Plan. He said that the basic character Planning was looking for was more of a contemporary style in this area, with a focus on glass, metal, and decorative or architectural panels, looking to have a variety of building forms and shapes, consistent with technology and innovation forms that create movements such as angles, geometric shapes, curvilinear forms, and things that can provide a different variety of ideas of movement in terms of the architecture. He said the details of architecture are divided in the Plan into four general building types termed as benchmark buildings. He said also included are special design considerations for large buildings and specifics on individual architectural components that they feel important to the design aspects of the buildings. Mr. Combs said the next portion looked at the special considerations for those large buildings. He presented a list of recommendations for part of the Commission review to take into account when reviewing very large footprint. He said they should make sure that there are enough of these to create a building that matches the overall character and provides some visual quality. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 7, 2011 -Minutes Page 6 of 7 DRAFT Mr. Combs said that the architectural components portion looks at specific architectural components that while not required, are things that Planning would like the architects in their design to take into consideration as things that they can easily incorporate that would add to the quality of the buildings. He said the first component was building form, the overall structure components, focusing on entrances, color and texture, roof top mechanicals, roof shape, shadow and sunscreen, window applications or fenestration, how glass is applied, and the use of metal panels. Mr. Combs explained that those components would be used in conjunction with the Code, to look at architecture to make sure they are meeting the overall intent of the Plan. Mr. Combs said depending upon the specific district, further away from US 33, more towards the manufacturing idea of the Plan, the idea was that there would be standards that are more lenient. Mr. Combs said that he would present the remaining sections of the Plan at the next meeting. Ms. Amorose Groomes said it was evident that Planning had been busy. She said it was a very good looking document. She said the Commissioners looked forward to seeing some of the technical data that is forthcoming. Mr. Taylor said he thought it was tremendous. He pointed out that on the cover of his Plan, it said Entrepreneurial again. Mr. Combs said that would be corrected next time it is seen by the Commission. Mr. Zimmerman complimented Mr. Combs's great presentation Ms. Kramb noted typographical errors. She referred to Chapter 16, first page, where it said it was intended for the developer. She said she thought it might insult the developers because it was an architecture lesson that tells you what windows and entrances, and the purpose of all those things, which if she were an architect, she would be insulted reading it, thinking you had to tell her what those were for. She said she did not know who the intended audience was for that. However, she said it gave a lot of good information. She reiterated that it was definitely a good business plan for someone wanting to come there because they would fully understand what it was they were doing and if what they wanted to do would fit. Mr. Hardt said it was a great document and he appreciated all the work and the putting this presentation together. He said regarding the architectural issues, he thought the language was fantastic in terms of outlining what the intent was and what the goals are, and the imagery is 'right on the money' and these are fantastic examples. He said going forward he thought the challenge is how to draft the next version of stuff to make sure this is what you get. He said prescribing certain architectural features is not going to do it because none of these buildings have anything in common from an architectural feature standpoint. He said it was really more about the quality. He wished them good luck with that because he had not seen anyone pull it off yet. Ms. Amorose Groomes invited public input in regards to this application. [There was none.] Ms. Amorose Groomes asked if the Commission could do anything else to make moving forward with this simpler. Mr. Combs said that they will return to the Commission with the remaining sections. He encouraged additional comments to be sent to them. He explained that they were continually revising this and making technical edits. He said if the Commission gets through the next section, Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission April 7, 2011 -Minutes Page 7 of 7 DRAFT they will remain on schedule. He said at the next meeting, the Commission should be looking at the first portion of the Code and the last portion of the Plan. Ms. Amorose Groomes confirmed that a motion was needed to table this Code Amendment. Motion and Vote Mr. Taylor made a motion to table this Community Plan Amendment as requested by Planning. Mr. Zimmerman seconded the motion. The vote was as follows: Mr. Fishman, yes; Ms. Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Budde, yes; Ms. Kramb, yes; Mr. Hardt, yes; Mr. Zimmerman, yes; and Mr. Taylor, yes. (Tabled 7 -0.) RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council M March 14, 2011 Mayor Lecklider called the nday, March 14, 2011 Re ar Meeting of Dublin City Council to order at 7:30 p . at the Du/oring, ding. PLEDGE OF ALLE CE Ms. Chinnici -Zuer er led the Pledge ROLL CAL Present re Mayor Lecklider, Vice M Ms. innici- Zuerchi Mr. G er, Mr. Keenan and Mr. R ' er. SA members present were Md. Grigsby, Mr. Smith, Mr. M4aniel, Interim Chief von ckartsberg, Mr. Hahn, Ms. randall, Mr. Eannan, Mr. H ding, Mr. Langworthy, Mr. Hammersmith, Ms. Giige , r. Combs, Mr. Richardso , r. Sweder, Ms. Martin, ar}rf Mr. Whittington. APPROVAL OF NUTES Mr. Gerber m ed approval of the minutes the meeting of February 1 , 2011. Ms. Chinni . uercher seconded the mo' n. Vote on motion: Ms. Chinnici -Zue er, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; r. Gerber, yes; 78Chr itnici yor Salay, yes; Mayor Le ' er, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Boring, yes. er moved approval o e minutes of the meeting ebruary 28, 2011. - Zuercher se ded the motion. Vote on the motion: Ms hinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. enan, yes; Mr. Gerber, ye Vice Mayor Salay, ye eyor Lecklider, yes; Mr. finer, abstain; Mrs. Boring, • Dublin usiness Appreciation Day Mayor Lec er stated that Dublin woul bserve Bu/behaf i ' n Day on Thursda ' o , March 17, 2011. In recog n thereof, hation. Ms. Gilger F d the proclamation on beh of Dublin's busithat the ation w ll be presented t a Dublin business uncil. CITIZEN COMMENTS There were no commen from citiz ens on items not . LEGISLATION / POSTPONEDITABLED ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR HEARING SECOND READINGIPUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCES Ordinance 47 -09 Rezoning Approximately 4.18 Acres, Located on the Northeast Corner of the Intersection of Shier Rings Road and Eiterman Road, from R, Rural District to HDP, High Density POD District within the Future Central Ohio Innovation Center. (Case 08 -107Z) Ms. Grigsby stated that the staff recommendation of approval, which was included in Council's packets, was based upon the review and approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission in 2009. However, Planning staff recognized that this site was currently part of the overall COIC area.and will be rezoned in the coming months as part of a City- sponsored rezoning. The issue was further reviewed late last week. It was determined that if the rezoning were approved tonight, a risk would exist from this point until the City - sponsored rezoning is brought forward — namely, that the developer could act upon the high density zoning in place and available to the developer. Therefore, staff considered the options available in regard to the rezoning. 1. The first option is to delay any action on the rezoning until July, when the City- sponsored rezoning is brought forward. 2. The second option is to recommend denial of the rezoning. 3. The third option is to recommend a low- density POD zoning designation for the property versus a high- density POD designation, and refer the legislation back to the Planning and Zoning Commission. 11.010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS __...._..__._ _W.in _ _ Meetinn Dublin City Council March 14, 2011 Page 2 Staff has discussed these options with the attorneys representing the property owners to learn if the applicant would accept a low- density POD zoning designation. If that is the case. Council could approve the rezoning at this time. However, without the applicant's willingness to accept the low- density designation, the application would need to be referred back to the Commission. The attorneys and the property owner have responded that they do not wish to accept the low- density POD zoning designation. Therefore, the legislation cannot be adopted tonight and must go back to the Commission for their review and approval of the low- density POD designation. Staff is prepared to discuss tonight the reasons this small parcel is important to the overall development of the COIC. Mr. Combs will also provide an update on the Economic Advancement Zone planning process, and how it relates to this parcel. Mr. Combs presented an overview. This site is located at the northeast comer of Shier Rings and Eiterman Road. The larger area that is currently in the planning process Is the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ), the boundaries of which are generally Avery Road on the east, Houchard Road on the west, Shier Rings Road on the south and SR 161 to the north. When the City originally began planning for the interchange area with the innovation center concept, it was with a general idea of a more suburban campus layout. Subsequent planning with some potential anchors for the area drove the road development planning. Simultaneously, the City was involved in a Community Plan update process, and the Future Land Use Map was adopted with the category of high- density office research and development for most of the EAZ area. There was some general area planning underway at the time, but staff was essentially looking at the road network that was being driven by the anchor tenant. Given that, staff also had to consider modifying the Code to implement an administrative process. Both that Code and some additional planning work that was done at the Interchange at the time were focused on the concept of a much higher density or more urban type of development Since that time, with the recent economic changes and with the City's refocus on the Bridge Street Corridor that will have a much higher density, part of the overall planning process involves taking another look at not only the interchange area but the remainder of the 1,100 acres. The focus is to determine how, within the context of the larger SR 161 corridor, the City actually wants to plan infrastructure, including water and sewer, but also the roadway system, and how that would impact land use patterns in the future. Their recent work with consultants has redirected their previous focus on the COIC at the interchange area as the larger employment corridor. They have shifted the focus to an innovation corridor, Including all of the 1 -270 and US 33 frontage. Within the EAZ on the west end of the corridor, staff has conducted planning work around the interchange and has implemented the Entrepreneurial Center as one of the key components to Initiate that. With the inclusion of Bridge Street Corridor, the focus is now on a significant shift in density and proposed development patterns. Although the anticipation was originally for a much higher density in the EAZ, given the level of intensity on Bridge Street, there is a need to balance the City s economic portfolio and the ability to promote all types of future development. Therefore, staff is re-evaluating the land use character and whether there is a need to consider a more suburban pattern that can accommodate all types of users in the corridor. In addition, an Administrative Code has also been implemented to enable a quicker approval process to facilitate start of construction. Currently, the full rezoning process for planned districts can take 12 or more months. The intent is to reduce that to one or two months. There are three major components of the EAZ project: • First, to adopt a plan for that area that recognizes all of the contextual changes that have occurred over the past two years. • With that plan, review the Administrative Code that is in place to see how it should be modified to make sure that the Code matches the intent of the planning document. • Conduct an area rezoning of all the properties within that area. The area in question has a variety of zoning categories, a significant portion of which remains zoned as Rural for agricultural uses. When the plan and Code are 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council _ h' eewn March 14, 2011 Page 3 implemented, that entire area will be designated under the new zoning classification, which will provide a consistent zoning for the entire 1,100 acres. To date, staff has met with the property owners in a series of public open houses and spoken with residents of the area residential neighborhoods. Throughout this process, staff has maintained a project page on the web, to keep everyone apprised of the most recent changes in the draft of the plan. The intent is to have this project completed by July. Last month, staff provided Council a memo outlining the process. In terms of the larger plan, staff is looking at the overall development character and architectural standards that will give this area of the City a very unique character that is evocative of innovation and technology. With the landscape character, they are also trying to make sure that the architecture fits Into the larger context of the area, primarily focusing on the links approach of Ballantrae, the naturalized wetlands of Red Trabue and the Metro Park— blending the idea of man through architecture and nature through the natural environmental into a larger development area. In terms of the land use plan, staff is looking at a more tiered approach than existed previously. The areas along the interchange are where they envision the higher profile office and research uses. Within the area moving west toward the residential areas, they envision a more flex type of development — a combination of office, laboratory, research and other support functions. Further west along SR 161 there will be a focus on the clean manufacturing and assembly uses, a comprehensive type of development that can accommodate many types of companies. The tiered approach will enable the higher profile buildings also to be built in the lower categories. To the south, the residential areas will be consistent with the Community Plan. Along Hyland -Croy Road, the mixed residential will help augment the employment center, which will enable people who live there to walk or bike into the EAZ. In the areas designated in the peach color, they are looking at a combination of potential office and residential uses. Support services would be located around the interchange, the area of highest traffic levels, which would support both the traffic and the employees enteringlexiting the EAZ. Typically, suburban development involves the traditional outparcel and small neighborhood strip retail. In addition to those, staff will also try to ensure that the typical vehicular- oriented uses can be appropriately included. They are trying to encourage a more mixed -use type of development in this area, and throughout the EAZ, to provide the ability to integrate some retail into the first floors. He noted that as part of the public process, a couple of significant changes have been proposed to the Thoroughfare Plan. 1. Realigning Shier Rings, directing It north up to Industrial Parkway, creating a roadway similar to Emerald Parkway, that would mirror US 33. This would facilitate the efficient movement of employees from the center of the EAZ to both Interchanges. This would serve through traffic and minimize impacts on the neighborhoods. 2. Identifying a new entrance to Dames Fields, as development occurs in the area. This will downplay the impact on the residential neighborhoods, create a more formal entrance to the park, and integrate some of the new residential and office components into the entry points. 3. Considering a new roadway network that would parallel SR 161, east to west, which will provide the greatest level of connectivity within the employment center. In regard to the specific site involved in this application — at the northeast comer of Shier Rings and Eiterman, the site is slightly more than four acres. There are significant limitations on the site in terms of setbacks and a stream corridor protection zone. The site is 50 percent developable. The future land use map calls for the site as well as the larger area to be High Density Office Research and Development, which is intended for a high intensity development, multiple stories, packing structure and integrated commercial uses. Those were uses that were considered at the time the City was looking at a more urban fabric for the area. The high - density POD zoning 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIL Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council March 14, 2011 Page 4 district that is requested tonight mirrors the classification within the Community Plan, which provides for larger uses that would have support services. Initially, the delay on this development request was to provide the City with time for the planning process that was looking at significant changes for a more suburban development pattern in this area as a balance to the plans for Bridge Street Corridor. Different road networks and potential alignments were being considered, which would likely have significant impact on this site. There were also concerns about the potential for retail in a high density POD. Looking at the larger EAZ, initially it was believed that this request might be workable, but there has been a change in the economic climate. This is a quite removed site on two-lane roads. Dublin has sites close by that are zoned for retail that have not been able to build, even though they have zoning and permits in place. Regarding this site, the property owner has indicated that they want to be able to market the property. However, the City does not have a mechanism to address retail. Recent discussions have not resulted in an agreement with the property owner. Although the application matches the designation in the Future Land Use Map, it does not address the intent of the District or the general intent of the Area Plan. General planning principles require consideration of the compatibility issues with the adjacent neighborhood and the lack of supporting infrastructure (currently two-lane roads) for potential retail use. He indicated that staff therefore recommends disapproval of this rezoning request, and allowing the City to proceed with its current planning process. An additional option for Council is to consider a low density POD zoning for this site, which would allow all of the general Office, Research and Development uses that are expected in this area, but would limit the retail capability of the site. Mrs. Boring asked if Council could table this ordinance again, as it has been tabled previously. Mr. Smith responded that Council could do so. Mrs. Boring asked if Council disapproves this request, would there be additional fees for a revised rezoning request? Mr. Smith responded that if Council disapproves this zoning request, the first issue is whether or not the applicant can file a rezoning earlier than one year. However, the rezoning could be part of the City's rezoning of the entire area, so there would be no additional fees involved for this applicant. stated that the suggestion is that they consider low density POD for this property. However, the site is currently 50 percent developable. With a low density POD, the required setbacks would be twice as much, and there would basically be nothing left to develop. A low density POD also has to be a minimum of ten acres; this site is four acres. He has been personally supportive of staffs planning work on this area, and he was also supportive of the original COIC. A couple of the projects in Dublin that have been very well received — Cardinal Health and Dublin Methodist Hospital — were the result of the regular discussions of a group that included the Planning staff, Service Director, Fire Chief, Police Chief and Engineering. That process is now institutionalized in the COIC Code and will be in the new Code that Planning staff is generating. Successful development districts around the nation have stressed the need for certainty of process, standards, and timely action. Without those elements, the City cannot be competitive with other areas. Those three elements are in the COIC. The standards in the COIC code are as high as or higher than any of the City's PUDs or districts. Developers need to be certain of the rules. This particular applicant has been extremely patient. They initially discussed this property with Planning staff in 2006. At that time, staff indicated that, although the Community Plan identifies the area as Residential, they believed the land use would be changing. Subsequently, the COIC Code was approved, and their understanding was that the City would rezone that entire area. However, in 2008, the only land rezoned was that which the City owned, not the entire area. His client's position was that this application was in compliance with the Plan, he was willing to accept all the City's standards and 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council March 14, 2011 Page 5 comply with the Cade, and so he would go forward with his application in order that they could proceed with marketing the property. Initial inquiries had determined that, once it was zoned, business brokers were willing to list the property. They were unwilling to work on property with undetermined uses and a yearlong rezoning process. That was three years ago. His client does understand that there will now be a revision to the Code. He personally believes that revision should be judged against the Code currently in place, which he considers to be an excellent Code with excellent standards and an excellent process. Hopefully, the major portion of that Code will be retained in the new Code. The Planning Commission has approved their rezoning request, which totally complies with the Community Plan and the applicant Is agreeable to all the standards. An issue has been raised that some of the uses may change, and his client has indicated that as a condition of this rezoning, they will agree not to file for any building permit or development plan until the end of June. Planning staff has indicated that the City will have its new plan in place by that time. They understand that this property will be part of the area rezoning the City will be proposing. His client has waited five years to proceed. Mayor Lecklider stated that all of Council understands the applicant's frustration. He asked staff if the intent of the new Economic Advancement Zone is that applications would be considered and approved within a three -month period of time. Mr. Combs responded that the administrative process of the COIC regulations would be retained. Mr. Hale noted that the COIC code indicates 60 days. Typically, during that time, the applicant receives an indication of whether his application is favorable, but it actually takes longer than that to work through the details to be able to file for a building permit. Mayor Lecklider requested that staff address Mr. Hale's comments regarding the relatively severe setbacks of a low density POD. Mr. Combs responded that, as currently written, the Code primarily addresses larger sites, a minimum of 10 acres, and requires larger setbacks. However, in this case, that would not be an issue when the site is rezoned into that district. This is already an established lot, and would only need to meet the site development requirements for that lot. Given the small nature of the site, the Code provides an alternative for the staff to consider an administrative departure, due to the fact that increasing the setbacks to the required amount would create a practical difficulty, making the site essentially undevelopable. This would address the concerns regarding rezoning to that district. Staffs purpose for suggesting rezoning to that district is that it specifically addresses retail uses. A high density POD provides the opportunity for any type of retail use indicated in the presentation. A low density POD restricts the retail use to integrated retail, which could be located on the first floor of a larger use, such as an office. In consideration of the market conditions and the potential impact of high - density retail on the neighborhoods to the south, a low density POD would seem to be a good compromise. Vice Mayor Salay stated that Mr. Hale indicates that his client's major issue Is the need to market their property with the high - density designation that will not work for Dublin. Rather than risk Council's denial of their application, why wouldn't his client prefer to accept what staff has offered and use that to market the property accordingly? His client would have as much clarity on the type of uses permitted as is possible. She does not understand what the issue is, unless it is that the applicant wants a high density, which as staff has indicated, is not consistent with the overall City's goals. Mr. Hale stated that the new Code has not yet been written, so any comments are somewhat speculative. His understanding of the Code is that, except for commercial, the uses are quite similar in terms of the base of the land uses. For the high density POD and low density POD, the primary difference is that the high density POD allows a lot coverage of 80 percent, while a low density POD allows only 50 percent coverage. This site Is on the comer, has setbacks, has a creek and has side yard 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council March 14, 2011 Page 6 setbacks next to the church. Therefore, there would be 60 percent maximum lot coverage on this site. It is not possible to reach the upper limits of the high density POD. The applicant has also provided written assurance to the City that the buildings would be next to the street, and that upfront parking would be limited to the side and behind. Under the Code, the Planning Commission has the right under certain Circumstances to review development applications if the requirements are not met. With the low- density POD requirements, this site would have nothing left to develop, unless staff exercises a process for divergence. Mr. Reiner stated that, in fairness, Mr. Combs was alluding to the small size of this parcel and the likelihood that it would warrant what essentially would be a variance. Therefore, he does not understand the applicant's reluctance to accept a low- density designation, which should occur in approximately 90 days, given the risk of denial of approval by Council. Mr. Hale responded that it would more likely require four to five months. Vice Mayor Salay asked for confirmation that this land is owned by a group of individuals for investment purposes. Joe Smiley, 8084 Winterhill Court, Westerville. Ohio responded that is correct. Unfortunately, they are being perceived negatively and have been asked why they are pushing for this rezoning. They have been waiting for over five years and have done all that the City has asked them to do. However, not one timetable provided to them by the City has been met. Their request to speak with previous City Manager Terry Foegler was denied. They have met with Mr. Langworthy, Mr. Smith and Mr. Combs. They have worked with staff on letters, which staff indicated were acceptable and which would enable their case to be scheduled for a Council hearing. The letters accomplished nothing. Council has now asked the reason for their reluctance to be rezoned low density. The low density zoning setback requirements for this four -acre lot would be 150 feet from a primary road. When they initiated this process, the setback from the stream was to be 50 feet; it is now 100 feet. Every day that they wait, their development potential erodes. This greatly encumbers an interested developer. They purchased this property because it was in Dublin, and they fully understood Dublin's high development standards. In regard to the concern about retail, the market dictates what needs to develop in this location. Their research indicates that the neighborhood residents do not want to travel a long distance to pick up small items. There is a concern about traffic in Dublin, yet this generates more traffic. When the COIC was initially discussed, they were part of that discussion, were supportive of the plan, and understood the direction it was going. He and his partners in this proposal represent 150 years of development experience. Last week, they were under the impression that the entire application was now satisfactory. On Thursday, they received a letter from staff indicating that they would recommend approval to Council. On Friday aftemoon, they received a phone call from staff indicating that they would recommend approval only if the applicant would accept a low density zoning designation. They understand that staffs Intent is to have the area rezoning completed in July. However, the intent was also that the COIC would be in place in 2008 and that did not occur until 2009. They will work with the City going forward, but with each extension of the timetable, more of their development potential erodes. They are now back to the position they were In five years ago of not knowing what they will have until it is presented to Council. They have attended several meetings on the new EAZ. Last week, they asked what the uses would be, but were told the uses were not yet known. They asked what the Code requirements were, but were told they have not been written. They asked if this was the last opportunity for public comment on the EAZ; they were told that it was. How can they comment on something that they cannot review? They do know what the COIC high - density POD requirements are and what low- density POD requirements are. If necessary, they will agree to another tabling of their application, but it has now been five years and he Is at a loss of what to do. 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS _M inutes of __._. Meeting Dublin City Council March 14, 2011 Page 7 Mayor Lecklider asked if they would be willing to forego any retail on this site except for that which would be integrated within a larger development, which was portrayed in the presentation. Mr. Smiley responded that he would take that proposal back to the other partners for review. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that Council must have a formal commitment that staff Will meet the timelines that have been updated twice for completing this process. She agrees with the Mayor that this case has not been managed well and should never have taken this length of time. The COIC was completed years ago, and there has been ample time to have completed this partidular area. Ms. Grigsby responded that Is staff's intent. In the past, there was not an established timeframe. The only variable in the current timeframe is associated with the Planning Commission's review, depending on whether it requires one or more reviews. Aside from that, the EAZ process is on schedule to meet the identified timeframe. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that the Planning Commission should schedule a special meeting if needed to complete this. She asks Council's support for that request. Mrs. Boring stated that her concern is with the quality of the Code being presented to the Commission. The timeframe assumes that what is presented to the Commission is of high quality and ready to adopt. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that she is making that assumption. Is there a consultant assisting staff with writing the Code for this area? Mr. Combs responded that there are consultants assisting with graphics and with analysis of the retail and industrial components. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that Council would assume that the City Manager would ensure the required quality level is present. There has been sufficient time to draft a quality Code for the Commission's review. Mr. Gerber agreed that the process for this case has been quite lengthy. He concurs with Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher's recommendation that to ensure the process is completed within the prescribed timeframe, the Commission should schedule a special meeting, if necessary. He would support tabling this application to enable that process to be completed. Mr. Hale stated that if the current Code, which was approved unanimously by the Commission and Council is the template for this Code, he is strongly supportive. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that Council has not reviewed the Code and does not know whether or not the same template was used. Mr. Smiley added that, throughout this process, they have spoken with members of the Ballantrae community. Other than one couple, they have not heard any concerns expressed. They will be happy to meet with any residents who have concerns. He noted that when they previously went before PZC, the rezoning of all the parcels was not an option. However, if Council would prefer to table their request again, with the assurance this would be accomplished within the defined timeframe, they are in agreement. Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher moved to table the ordinance. Mr. Gerber seconded the motion. Vote on the motion Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes. M60DU TION /FIRST RE PIING — ORDINANCES Ordinance 12-11 Authorizing the City ager to Enter into an Agr ment for thf — 3.824 Acres, More o ess, Fee Simple Interest om the Muirfiel 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan The Planning and Zoning Commission took no action on the following at this meeting: 2. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan Informal Discussion 11- 010ADM Area Planning & Implementation Proposal: An area plan defining the future character of planning elements for areas within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33 and Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Request: Update and informal discussion regarding the status of the planning process and developing elements of the EAZ plan. Applicant: Marsha I. Grigsby, City Manager, 5200 Emerald Parkway, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Planning Contact: Carson Combs, AICP, ASLA, Senior Planner. Contact Information: (614) 410 -4669, ccombs @dublin.oh.us. RESULT: Planning presented an overview of the status of the planning process, anticipated content, and timeline of the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan. The presentation introduced preliminary character studies and updated the Commission on major elements of the plan including land use, thoroughfare, greenways and open space, bikeways, and future transit options. Commission concerns included increased connectivity outside the planning area and sensitivity to Darree Fields when reviewing transit options. The Commission complimented Planning on efforts made to develop the plan. STAFF CERTIFICATION Carson Combs, AICP, ASLA Senior Planner 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan PLANNING AND ZONING COMM RECORD OF DISCUSSION CITY OF DUBLIN. to ,,, J. ..d MARCH 3, 2011 Lore Avg. Mmr*, 5WO ShIet -Rinq, Rood Dublin. Ohio 430161236 Phone / i0D: 616410.4600 Fox: 61441 PO47 Web Site:W AvbIIe.oh.us Creating a Legacy The Planning and Zoning Commission took no action on the following at this meeting: 2. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan Informal Discussion 11- 010ADM Area Planning & Implementation Proposal: An area plan defining the future character of planning elements for areas within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33 and Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Request: Update and informal discussion regarding the status of the planning process and developing elements of the EAZ plan. Applicant: Marsha I. Grigsby, City Manager, 5200 Emerald Parkway, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Planning Contact: Carson Combs, AICP, ASLA, Senior Planner. Contact Information: (614) 410 -4669, ccombs @dublin.oh.us. RESULT: Planning presented an overview of the status of the planning process, anticipated content, and timeline of the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan. The presentation introduced preliminary character studies and updated the Commission on major elements of the plan including land use, thoroughfare, greenways and open space, bikeways, and future transit options. Commission concerns included increased connectivity outside the planning area and sensitivity to Darree Fields when reviewing transit options. The Commission complimented Planning on efforts made to develop the plan. STAFF CERTIFICATION Carson Combs, AICP, ASLA Senior Planner 11- 010ADM Community Plan Amendment COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan DUBLIN PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION CITY OF DUBLIN. MEETING MINUTES m.e U- nd "°^"^. MARCH 3, 2011 406 M Oabin, Ohfo UJ161 Ph —IMD: 61 u16 W Pox: 61b41 47 WBUSXB: wrm.' a,WI .OM1.v 2. COIC Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ) Plan Informal Discussion 11- 010ADM Area Planning & Implementation Ms. Amorose Groomes introduced this informal discussion regarding an Economic Advancement Zone Plan defining the future character of planning elements within the general area of Shier Rings Road to the south, Post Road to the north, US 33 and Avery Road to the east, and Houchard Road to the west. Carson Combs explained that previously, the Commission discussed the Sher -Rings area of the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor and now, they were looking at the western end. He said when the Commission first heard about the COIC and reviewed the Code associated with it, the focus was on the particular area that included the particle therapy development. He said since that time, they were starting to promote the whole I -270 and US 33 Corridor as a larger marketing piece based on the analyses and input received from consultants who have research these types of developments around the country. He said they had looked at different areas and how they might break out based on the type of the development that we might see, the types of codes that would be applied, how Dublin can market individual portions of the City to address business needs, whether it is a larger type of office development with frontage onto I -270, or somethm; that needs to be quickly built based on research funding. Mr. Combs said previous work focused on the interchange area which has also been called the `Dublin Innovation Park.' He said a large component of that was the establishment of the successful Dublin Entrepreneurial Center which has received awards from the Economic Development Council over the past two years. He said looking at the overall structure, they were really looking at the piece of the puzzle where a business can actually come in quickly get approval and begin construction. He explained they were not looking to change the review structure, but to base the plan and regulations on the idea of quick to build. He said given this objective and the economic change, it was decided to take another look at the 1,150 acres. Mr. Combs said some of the work has been done on the interchange, Liggett Road has been realigned, some of Industrial Parkway has been realigned, and some of the upgrades of Post Road have been done. He said City Council has dedicated funding and time in infrastructure improvements such as 2M gallon water tank at Dance Fields. He said the purpose of the upgrade of that tank was to complete the water system there and to also allow the Post Road tank to be removed along SR 161 because of the prime use of that land for future development. Mr. Combs explained the Commission would see multiple components of this project over the next few months. He said the first is to review and adopt a plan for the 1,150 acres. He said Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission March 3, 2011 —Minutes Page 2 of 5 when the Community Plan was done, they really looked at a very macro level and now, they are trying to look at that in more detail in terms of the road network and all the infrastructure pieces to figure out how we actually want to program and set priorities for future development. He said in addition, the Code will need to be updated to reflect the changes to the plan. He said when that is done then they will look to rezone properties in that area. Mr. Combs said beyond that, staff will be working in a lot of other areas in terms of promoting the area. He said they are also looking at a consolidated web portal that will put all the development information in one place, to market the established plan with a quick process. Mr. Combs said in terms of the rezoning component the Commission will review at a future meeting, they ensure once the Plan and Code is in place the properties are ready to develop and that will require the appropriate zoning. Mr. Combs said to date the work on the EAZ Plan included major public meetings that were held at the end of last year. He said they have been working individually with key landowners that will be impacted by some of the road layouts. He said in the near future, they are looking to hold another round of meetings as they are getting close to the final plan. He explained project pages on the City's homepage have been established for the EAZ and the Tech Flex Code projects so the public can follow their progress at any time. Mr. Combs said the process will have a tiered approach. He said the final draft of this Plan will be seen in April by the Commission. He presented a timeline for the Plan and modifying the Code and following up with the area rezoning for all the properties in that area. Mr. Combs said the direction for the Plan received from the public input included more contemporary architectural design and he gave the Dublin Methodist Hospital as an example of a more naturalized and low impact landscape design. He said also given the proximity of the Metro Parks, the links grass design in Ballantrae, and Dublin's naturalized greenways as a method to balance that `man versus nature' approach to the area. He said when looking at the big picture, this is an area where we are looking for a more suburban approach contrasted with Bridge Street where they were looking for very high density urban -type of development. Mr. Combs said other character elements the Commission will be seeing include building materials, gateways, streetscape elements, way finding, and public art. He said the architecture and materials portion of the plan will be integrated into a pattern book with examples. Mr. Combs said along US 33 with high visibility, the expectation is to have higher profile, larger primarily office focus buildings that would incorporate research and development. He said farther west, along the residential areas and some existing development in the township, they were looking at more of the office flex approach, smaller spaces of smaller scale, but flexible to accommodate a wide variety of changeable uses so that they can actually hit the large corporate uses, but then also accommodate the small to mid -size start-ups and growing businesses. He said farther west, towards the rail line, transitioning the area into what would be more of the larger, clean manufacturing and assembly type uses. Mr. Combs explained they were really trying to accommodate the full scale of uses. Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission March 3, 2011 —Minutes Page 3 of 5 Mr. Combs said they also are looking at key areas around the interchanges where we might have some research support, retail or other support uses to accommodate all of the employees coming to this area He said in key areas also integrating similar to what the Community Plan called for, integrating housing types in key areas so that people can live and walk or bike to, and providing additional rooftops around the park areas as an amenity. Mr. Combs said they were looking at the general scale. He said at this time, the Plan would be linked to the Code so that as an administrative approval process, there is the ability to use elements of the plan to gauge whether a proposal are appropriate. He presented a chart showing a tier of building heights allowed based on location and context. Mr. Combs said another major component of the plan is its development impact on the Thoroughfare Plan. He said a key element that came from the public review was realigning Shier Rings Road and turning it north so a street layout similar to Emerald Parkway would be create with a bypass for US 33. He said you could go from Emerald Parkway to the north to Marysville. He said providing good access at both interchanges and understanding how the residential areas might be better protected in the long term were key components. Mr. Combs said in general, they were looking for a hierarchy of roads. He explained the level of road shown in red was more like that of Emerald Parkway, and in green, more like Eiterman Road section in Ballantrae with the taller grasses in the median and one lane in each direction. He said the white, is internal to the development with two lanes with parking on street to create a pedestrian oriented environment. Mr. Combs said regarding greenway and open space they are looking at linking up the City's major amenities at Darree Fields, Red Trabue, and the Golf Club of Dublin and making sure that we have good pedestrian and greenway connections in between all of those components, and also looking at the larger scale, ensuring the network established stretch into the larger network that could take you from the EAZ, through Red Trabue and Coffman Park, to Historic Dublin and beyond, and then also up to the Metro Park and back around, so we have regional connectivity throughout Dublin. Mr. Combs said one of the key elements they are trying to implement in this area of the City is making it a test case for the work that the Bicycle Task Force is recommending. He said they are proposing with the Plan in addition to the road construction, a hierarchy of commuter and recreational bike path systems. He said the lines in red along the major thoroughfares would include on- street bike lanes in each direction, looking at multi -uses paths providing cross or parallel connectivity in key areas so there is an overlapping system of both commuter and recreational access throughout the entire area. Mr. Combs said regarding future transit, they are looking at the work at Bridge Street, visioning out 50 plus years, what we actually want to accommodate or lay the groundwork for potential integration. He said some of the proposed COTA routes were shown in the dashed red lines on the map. He said we are working with them to potentially create some additional routes or short term circulation through the EAZ. He said as we look long —term, intensify densities and more traffic occurs, there is an opportunity to establish a rapid transit spine for buses that would have a Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission March 3, 2011 —Minutes Page 4 of 5 priority and linkage between the EAZ to Bridge Street. Mr. Combs said even longer term, depending on the larger region, keeping open the option for light rail or commuter station in this area so we can phase a transit options to extend farther west and hook up to what might happen in Columbus. Mr. Combs said this plan focuses on keeping our options open, making sure they coordinate with the Bridge Street Plan and lay the larger groundwork for options that can happen in the future. He said they were looking at completing a final draft of this plan by the end of March, and having it back to the Commission at the beginning of April to review in detail. Ms. Amorose Groomes said these things were exciting to think about and that it will be very interesting to see what happens in the future. Ms. Amorose Groomes invited public comments regarding this informal discussion. [There was none.] Mr. Combs suggested that Commissioners make comments or bring up issues to be addressed by Planning when this returns. He said also, emails or phone calls would be appreciated. John Hardt said there was an insane amount of work that had been done, and it was great. He said he appreciated everything the staff had done to put this together. He referred to the conceptual Bikeway Plan and said it seemed that they were creating this incredible network of bicycle and pedestrian routes inside this area with decent connectivity to the south to Ballantrae, but the connectivity to the other side of US 33 and the rest of the City seemed lacking. He said one connection was shown that did not go anywhere. He said there was connectivity that needs to occur north of Hyland Croy to all the existing residential areas, into the Red Trabue Nature Preserve, and to all the areas to the east. He said he was concerned about a network that shows bicyclists put on SR 161 with sharrows. He said sharrows are great, but that is an approach used to retrofit when there is no other choice. He said he expected to see them on High Street in the campus area where adding bike lanes or other bike routes is impossible. He said with a brand new road and every opportunity to add paths along it, asking people to navigate their way under or around the US 33 interchange out into the roadway with cars seems really inadequate. Mr. Combs agreed to look at it. He said the current lack of connectivity here is based on ODOT and the Federal Regulations. He said he understood from the engineers we are not allowed to provide pedestrian access through that area. He said based on the greenway, and where we predict having municipal land we are anticipating having some kind of crossing under or over the freeway, which is a challenge. He said they anticipated full bike path connectivity on Hyland Croy, but it is now shown on the map currently. He said all that information can be added. Steve Langworthy pointed out that some of this had to integrate with the work of the Bicycle Advisory Task Force, and there are other elements to connect outside of the rectangle. Mr. Hardt asked they make sure that the connections, especially on the northeast side of SR 33, are thought through and finished. Mr. Langworthy pointed out some of that will result in policy Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission March 3, 2011 —Minutes Page 5 of 5 decisions yet to be made by City Council and more information is needed before they can complete the picture. Warren Fishman said he thought access was incredibly important. He said there was no way to get to the hospital from this area by bicycle or as a pedestrian. He said sharrows are being recommended by the Bicycle Advisory Task Force, but they have no other choice. He said it was a budget issue too. He reiterated they really needed to look at this closely as far as walking and bicycle transportation within this district. He said a wonderful network of bike paths is worthless if you cannot get to them or out of the area Mr. Walter said he thought this was tremendous concept. He said the variety of overlays included told a story to developers of what this is going to look like, and he thought from the City's perspective, it shows a lot of foresight. He said he thought if they were steadfast about the commitments that are depicted here, 75 years from now this will be a tremendous asset with great buildings, and he thought the sooner it can begin the better. He said it was terrific. Mr. Taylor said in reference to architectural style he thought it was an opportunity to make a great pattern book. He said some wonderful photographs of some very progressive looking buildings were given as examples. He said this was an opportunity to push for really exciting architecture because the context is not Historic Dublin or a residential neighborhood, so there is a chance to have some spectacular buildings. Mr. Taylor said in the Plan, Darree Fields at one point is extended out to landscape, and then later on there is the note `Transit Hub' there. He said he assumed that meant his grandkids someday can ride bikes to the train station, take the train to Darree Fields, and then get there and find only a transit hub. He asked if those two things coexisted in the future. Mr. Combs said he hoped there would be coexistence. He said in terms of the rail line, when looking at the area they have control over in the Corridor, you are looking at the Darree Field frontage that could facilitate that kind of opportunity. He said they were looking long term, 50 plus years. He said the plan looks at phasing, so as things develop and transit options move west, there is at least an option down the road for the City to take a look and decide what makes sense to do the next phase. Mr. Taylor confirmed the Plan was not suggesting Darree Fields be replaced with a transit hub. Mr. Taylor referred to the Land Use Map and asked if there had been any public reaction to the two designated three -story multifamily areas next to single family. Mr. Combs said not at this point. He said the Community Plan and the proposed EAZ plan calls for mixed residential in those areas, but additional feedback will be given as this continues. Mr. Taylor said he thought the idea of three story buildings should be discussed with the adjacent residents. Mr. Combs said the idea of that category is that given a chunk of the land, you have the option to a mix of different product, so looking at making appropriate buffers and transitions is something they would want to review. Ms. Amorose Groomes acknowledged the amount of work completed and complimented staff. J. US 33 Corridor Area Existing Character The US 33 Corridor is an area defined by agricultural character that is on the verge of significant change. With rail access, several important highway interchanges and key interstate frontage, the area is highly accessible from I -270 and all points to the north and west. The corridor includes a broad range of commercial, industrial and technology related uses interspersed with housing developments, large lot residences and agricultural uses. Bordered to the north by US 42, Avery Road and US 33 to the east, Shier -Rings Road to the south and the CSX railroad to the west, the area remains largely undeveloped. The area includes significant woodlots and small watercourses, and the northern portions of the study area are located within the Darby watershed, posing additional environmental considerations as the area develops. Ensuring managed, high - quality growth along US 33 will be a significant challenge and goal into the future that can benefit the entire Central Ohio region. Darree Fields is home to a wide variety ofrecreaHonal amenities. 146 Chi` ofDublln, Ohio s007Dmbha Commun{typlan 1 k 1 q $ C yr 1 A, r r P 1 nn ` a ( ,firms. L��•, � kit uNloe c_ouNrr � -- - -- - - -- MADJSora L • xs r 16 SNAWNFY_ v HILL ROWEL I I I COLUMBUS i HnLIARD UPPER ARLINC VON NO Plamling Area — Cityof Dublin Boundary Land Use Planning Frey Boundary — County Boundary Map 3.13 US 33 Corridor Existing Conditions l G LSOp 3AG0 6.000 Feet Land Use Planning Challenges /Issues Facilitate the creation of a cohesive, integrated employment center Maintaining the City as an important employment center will be a key component to the long -term vitality of the City. The creation of a well - planned mix of office, research and support uses as a high - quality gateway to the City is very desirable and consistent with the City's established image. The area should include strong entry points to the corridor and should include hotels, retail and a broad range of uses that will support prospective companies. Companies must also have development options ranging from campus settings to more urban walkable locations that will meet the individual needs of business. The corridor should include a distinctive identity through the use of landscaping, architecture, signage and other design elements. Maximize highly visible areas and land uses appropriately: With significant visibility along US 33, at interchanges and from major arterials within Dublin, key frontage sites within the US 33 Corridor Area should include prominent uses and architecture that capture the image of the Central Ohio Innovation Center. In general, uses along US 33 should include higher densities with a critical mass that creates a prominent sense of place. In addition, uses with greater visual impacts should be integrated within the corridor in less prominent locations to ensure an overall mix of employment opportunities while achieving the desired visual character. Lower intensity uses should be provided to the north and west to conserve open spaces and natural features and to blend with its surroundings. Provide convenient housing choices and access to daily services As a major employment center based on research and technology, future development must integrate a range of unique housing options in close proximity to area employment. Places to live, as well as access to daily services should be strategically to provide convenience within the context of the corridor. Great accessibility to Major infrastructure upgrades will accompany growth in the corridor. 148 City of Dublin, Ohio 2oo7 Dublin Community Plan regional greenway networks should also be provided from all land uses to offer a full assortment of amenities within the area for prospective businesses, employees and residents. Incorporate attractive streetscapes and pedestrian environments As a large employment center, the US 33 Corridor Area must include an integrated system of pedestrian connections and spaces that can provide unique character. In appropriate places, architecture should be placed close to the street edge and configured to provide courtyards and spaces and to screen parking Other amenities such as water features, formal open spaces, landscape focal points, sculpture, courtyards, green malls or broad boulevards should also be encouraged where buildings do not relate to the public street. Future options for transit (bus and /or rail) should be considered to provide long-term convenience and flexibility. Pedestrian connections should be provided between employment, transit locations, service uses, open space systems and housing throughout the corridor. Preserve and enhance natural features and the environment The US 33 Corridor includes a significant amount of natural features such as woodlands, free rows and stream corridors that should be preserved and integrated as valuable amenities. Environmental quality should be emphasized, particularly for portions of the corridor within the protected Darby watershed. Akey element of future development should include the integration of regional greenway connectivity and a skeleton of open space upon which all development is integrated. Focus should be placed on the natural context of the area through creative site placement, quality landscape design and the maintenance of unobstructed views to natural amenities. The integration of LEED- certified buildings or environmentally friendly design techniques should be highly encouraged as part of a cutting edge technology employment center. Utilize high - quality, flexible design standards Future development of the corridor as a major technology and research employment center for the region will depend on the ability to establish standards that will achieve architectural and design quality in a manner that is flexible and responsive to the private market. Emphasis should be placed on establishing regulations that will allow technology companies to quicklyfollow business opportunities within the corridor. Planning Goals ...To enhance the area as a key employment and service center and as a prominent gateway to Dublin with high - quality development, strong gateway treatments and overall design features that exemplify the office and technology focus of the area. Recreational lands will Provide agreat amenityfor businesses within the area. Land Use 1b Design Recommendations 150 City ofDublin, Ohio 2007DUblin Community Plan US 33 Corridor Recommendations Q1 Maximization of open space and preservation ofwoodland within Darby watershed Q Future interchange improvements at Mitchell- Dewitt Road © Parkway design with variable median for additional landscape character 20040 of landscape setback along Houchard Extension Q5 20040 of buffer and greenway along rad road ® Optional location for future transit station and support services QQ Higher - density residential in walkable proximity to town center © Town center area within core to provide service and housing proximity to employment base Q pedestrian /greenway corridors linking to town center area higher - density employment core along SR161 with support uses General Notes Intent ofPlan is not to displace residential properties in the area; however, if the area is redeveloped the Plan reflects the preferred scenario for any redevelopment 42 I New CoMfomia - ti .. P 2 i yo' - v U Mari nr. unvnrmrx a F � 5)' cln � z o z A " i =I c - - - - - - -- — - - N - - I U `+� UNION COUNTY r MpDI50N COUNTY - \ l - -` - -� - - =� ® Y/ ws eom �- Rilevllle ` - -- 3.13 No ;orridorPlan \ } - Itigh Deosiry O(fia /R&D svmrvixcsewo Low Density O fia /R&D s s - Mixed Residential tfgh Density - Mixed Use b Area plan concepts are general guides to indicate potential Town Center development options. Plans are schematic only, and the actual ® Mixed Use ! mieaflanduses, locations and configurations of buildings, Village Center parking areas and access points will 6e determined through the 0 2,000 4,000 Poet public review process- Properties retain all existing rights. General Correspondence A builder scape March 21, 2011 Colleen Gilger Economic Development Manager City of Dublin 5800 Shier Rings Road Dublin, OH 43016 RE: Dublin Annexation Dear Colleen, I wanted to reach out after reading the Spotlight Article about you in Business First. I wanted to be made aware of any plans for Dublin to Annex land along the Industrial Parkway corridor near US 33. I am curious about the proposal and how it would affect businesses in the area as Dublin continues to grow. I am not only a business owner along Industrial Parkway but I am also a Dublin resident. Thank you for your time and any information you can provide. Sincerely, a'z� V� I , Ronald E. Matthews 7500 Industrial Parkway Plain City, Ohio 43064 -9005 614.889.2533 voice 614.873.3633 fax www.builderscape.com General Correspondence City of Dublin - Land Use and Long Range Planning - Economic Advancement Zone Plan Page 2 of 6 Proposed EAZ Plan Planning and Zoning Commission will be reviewing final revisions to the EAZ lnnovationCod_e. . Following a recommendation from the Commission, the Code will be forwarded to City Council in May and June for a first reading and public hearing. Economic Advancement Zone Part 1 - View Economic Advancement Zone Part 2 - View 2 Comments„ Chris Brown Poste) on March 15, 2011 ' Diverting Shier Rings Rd, from its east/west axis is a terrible idea. You already took away one main east/west corridor when you terminated it for both a three day festival and for political reasons that I am aware of. Please don't make the same mistake again. Everyone that I know misses the old Post Road. It seems that we are making every effort to speed traffic on our north /south needs, but Pnot Pans Tweat This Share littp: / /dublin .oh.us /planning/eaz/plan.php 5/2/2011 General Correspondence City of Dublin - Land Use and Long Range Planning - Economic Advancement Zone Plan Page 3 of 6 keep eliminating east/west roads. So now that we have helped everyone that cuts through Dublin, Page last updated: May 02. 2011 how about leaving your residents the ability to drive within Dublin?! Jeffrey M Mirgon Posted on April 13, 2011 On every map of the EAZ, Fishel Drive is listed as "Fisher Drive ". This really needs to be corrected. .J Type the two words: ¢ 0 0 O '.Submit '. Contact and Information For more information about the Central Ohio Innovation Corridor and planning efforts within the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ), please contact Senior Planner Carson Combs at 614.410 4669 or G9R.m45@Qup6nsb.ps- To receive updates on the progress of this or other planning studies, submit your email address with the project title to amills($9uglinnll.s!s. Your Comments Topic: required Comments: required http: / /dublin .oh.us /planning/eaz/plan.php 5/2/2011 Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 COIC CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Ql : Are there alternative road alignments that would speed development while protecting neighborhood character? ZL)0 � 5N2�1Z - Zzl��S � -D� - G 5 zJ - R�- Izocr�� c Tv A&i Q2: Where could light rail be planned to connect the Bridge Street Corridor with the fi - T�►-mlz- �7 c� 15 Af'P2of c �z (L SuM A z5m ALL A Q3: What locations should be considered for bus routes and park- and - rides? UN Ram l5 Der �� PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: 5111{x- �II�US C itJ� A AtJY ��tc rliCi AT 'eA(6e4nP)-AJ i 5 v�2Y DAB � A46JzE� ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: 5 A 4 WIL, 1�i !GJN WA }+ivy (�, W I L,b 136 iob f bok)c t-wc/14 (srl S VAUX;;S 13'4 T NA--( Meeting L- Da te: Tuesday, lyovG , f m I7 " ^/ ) � e ^iion: Dublin ServicQ7J e� Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 move a, j� MII�11lZIruC� 1�D(5� S)f - v�S l\\i SSG ClS�S 'I Nf 445 �5 � ,�\1 i �v � MAW( kA'tYG A L-10iA-.DV &&F--t4 D AL�(af,o k)f - tom 5411W1CAC -, (ohs RP&t IS A rvve i- 91 t9c -5 bF 6 SF+ -c-6-t2 W�CmGt2A�E ,A A-ZOANI `12r,-St Pe7NZJAL , -r r 0 d5e s . M05 n�ttL2y Cr rr 6E Pr P� A PIZo PaSE O �,J t ('c E A I+fA\! g� o Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 COIC CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Ql: 4n- the-EAZ? 45 ti l S J us7 rl07 CDoD r C>cs lG lam(, A 6o- `co( 5E-r_ �GK l S N O71(11J S Q2: What should be the maximum height of development in different areas of the EAZ? - 510CIL , X00-/ 1�0 tiA( ,JCS 5R --6CJ (L7 AL0tit6 1�o -- rA- lf>;(L PJU(L�DJL �5 A-5 PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: T�A42)(66 5C—, -- WN e-(ZE " -1,61+ D�-wSk7Y` b) (Lo tk)6 5 FX( 57 / ('t D vr�l.l l - T(4e'� M om-/ Ne'�n7 (-o r � UJ 4.c-� Pi- I-4zyn6S NeA-C2,G3 / A A-7 CAl2.0 ( &WL Re-p a - 7"ffE Tau (Lb (k3 G ' s ,mom mocO rnoV-C- -7-a" Goo r - iEr - r . A - 7r - cr- Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 p (OZ,<) /�j Location: Dublin Service Center W 4 w( ;' LA426,9- i , ice/ egi F'r,/ _-_- MS ;�#� /� , Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 R4cf,-, As4H.A00 ('({ENt . l�Kr✓ &jam — 1 7 - rats y ins t 6+ c�E - -Zp C 2, � YYlo � 0/,j PNWb�� aF LNOV Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 W 46;c ,d eAU�� (,C)fa5 eC 006 A DE�5rco— 7� til "�H RUPAL, C } t CZPCri�L OF qR�A �f.FL►1PrPS -- - - r'+LS CAxJ 5VL�t- /� Wr c H AaO+ 7�,GZV2 � -- 14A-T , (5 L �c�s G Cc A 3refn p er) AiJ /k� So,J�� OF I` 5��u ►r�r A - :E5AI2o A - (2LH - 54j - LAW6 f LTG .) �E Hazy, 1 row ys, r c ov A,2 f, BFCom( /J G PAC c �,� t �� - r6 SprcR FQ. L6X)C3 R�P — Co � So. 8 Public Input Meeting COIL .:, CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR 11 -30 -2010 Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q1: What should architecture in a technology and research area look like? - L-OI,J tzt r } lU� t t l�l L 266 5�7r bAc1�5 "DU�LIi�l�7 I ( L'Cr5 OF �2EJScP� B>J�f�2S 1G�e-2 S I6tJA DF S tor�l� USA O - L'cz, Lt6 -? r tit G Q2: What would give the Economic Advancement Zone a unique identity? A�ST'9�f( --A i� -V5i OF SYL,cJAVv SCE ?fU,(Z' Wry EZ" Co,f -Seo c wI aAY, A&10 PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: �A K(DVtt+( Kj 6 IF P)A�L(s Wl ':�1 ES - 7& C6M.(T--7iE- (t-PV4 67 K�L H�L� APPS 2� To o� T MoO4 t M ry-1- �: USA PeVPL.�' Geowpfu'-/ Pp- ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: DlS7�G — DF�t��7�U -� jM'T) )S7FZ .AL / erc ofi GC-, FAOL = M 1Z2AC) t� ttGG— Lr wwof A cTU2 1 �C�� TAG H iev rJU S72t'�� LAjo 05'� P�oP&SAL S b ij Mw 6f rUTu2 R�S� ultnlCr� �� lib vet �t L60 Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 �1���- NOT A Location: Dublin Center 'e! rPma (-A tt"s,t.Lf, r`i ( Ova COIC CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q1: What types of alternative energy should be pursued further in the EAZ? Q2: Should environmentally friendly design be encouraged or re uire in he EAZ? �QUIK� AU, �z•��IJWF�fu� Uf�EtZI�6z PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: OR- VAVt b 5-t" g,.,3 G c v�z� - i(q4 "C /-s WI - M E5AUAj3Y(ZAE, M(U.1DNS Qf= ctj&� � � W (C.L e6 P2 �c z �Cz 64-Z, lo�2PAP N � P2o X��rnS ` p- - TaE; rA7, �jcJt GCLr�7�NC C�2at5 f:bj;� OINK SFK�Z �S�R7�S . c�► U5 Aiz j rnoPuDL(76fS �' 6v27tr! fly cc1�LC WCqU1,5 P II` - 64f Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 U6 Location: Dublin Service Center Nt1( i /\,b D2PA IuAF� s1 Jroe.. Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 Public Input Meeting C ®IC CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR 11 -30 -2010 Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q 1: Where should key open space connections be made? pFW 5PK_6 I AZT Dom- Wox jay of "1 Fly Zo,�� Tv �4 Gl Lt r 7� ! R e p X47 . 02: How should the EAZ be targeted as a comprehensive model for bike - pedestrian connectivity? ­_Rr, C, u5 5 Zoe ' wt L. ' 8e _r4 BIKf, VA Lv1U. t8� St p tS Cdr A S R4- Lc— ttl, cow "ey)S, ITS U A u SZtG 7v 't F4 X ) L.'NA7" V�54LY MM ca U_ T�� Tr- taj.,e:�G— PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: �o cvc2�. j��t n�t2�L�1 C� — _ PL�7� ( I✓ �'AZ"tf ./- tit�,c.�C ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Location: Dublin Service Center r CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q1: What components or "missing elements" should been the City's checklist to better promote the EAZ? A SZ 2 1DFvt�hrq C"t)MS M S16AL I S7VL -) M&e s LAY-C--"7 ! ( 56G-1vi,S tr(E A�S7t LTG CHRIS Mo(zE D/k`CA �0 5vt�ctz7 �T}(A7 �ttG— �90"q c,W6U. MAKE - rI - Io v(f Q2: What can the City do (or do better) to assist property owners in promoting the development of land? o� "Tf4E Cans m vP 1 - (y DFVUW z7 I M snrn4u-ec-z PN s 7 7 PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: Dael`T SAID L P wt ro 1,tnS of �- Mff-1 5ppG> S LcKC— $o NiAMy OF Po&,p . pj- ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Location: Dublin Service Center Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 C ®IC CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q 1: Are there alternative road alignments that would speed development while protecting neighborhood character? f S �. , �� — R - --r.S' �S 'f2�rJ t., v-� t t S ,� -Q,. -. �_s d ✓� ,_'� '� b-Z. c V ` a- 4� ' r Sv�f '7v f f- ! P � �-�n✓ - t'S � �va�' � ��- SJ os s5, v S �� s h S ro 0 of � S J 7. Q2: Where could light rail be planned to connect the Bridge Street Corridor with th EAZ� ? Q3: What locations should be considered for bus routes and park- and - rides? G I 0 S 2 +�--> n ?h -5 T �� l 16,1 46 444 1✓ a' r PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: - -33 f 1j ds� J Vim' �d •"� � Q I . `P17 � (� 1 fi C.cy J 1 "1 S "J `J � ... Lv� ✓(+ �, ly�cy /�. 0- Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Location: Dublin Service Center Public Input Meeting 11 -30 -2010 COIC CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Ql: What types of alternative energy should be pursued further in the EAZ? Q2: Should environmentally friendly design be encouraged or required in the EAZ? PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Location: Dublin Service Center Public Input Meeting COI C CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR 11 -30 -2010 Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q1: What should architecture in a technology and research area look like? Q2: What would give the Economic Advancement Zone a unique identity? v o �OrQ K�J P qP� PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Location: Dublin Service Center Public Input Meeting CO1C CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR 11 -30 -2010 Please provide any comments, suggestions and ideas you may have to help formulate plans for the Economic Advancement Zone (EAZ). Q1: Where should key open space connections be made? r 4, Q2: How should the EAZ be targeted as a comprehensive model for bike - pedestrian connectivity? l'J O PLEASE PROVIDE ANY COMMENTS /IDEAS ABOUT THE DRAFT GOALS: ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS: rfil , -e� d. Meeting Date: Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Location: Dublin Service Center 1 ,. j 4p rr 1' �d 1 r •V: r ill l { 4 ~ 1 Y: here would different building heights be a ppropriate? Economic Advancement Zone Coic L and Use and Regulatory CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR W here would you locate open 1paces and bikeways? Red�Trabue��y .d.� tiC IMP .: . fk 4 Darree Fields ` �"�- fir n ILL A'4 Economic Advancement Zone COIC Open Space and Bikeways CENTRAL OHIO INNOVATION CORRIDOR