East Acreages
Transcription
East Acreages
East Acreages AREA STRUCTURE PLAN Town of Chestermere Draft August 7, 2014 Acknowledgements Town of Chestermere Mayor and Council John Popoff Director of Planning and Development Heather Kauer Senior Planner Jillian Geen Intern Planner Consultant Team Grant Hallam Co-project Manager Jonathan Schmidt Community Planner Troy McNeill Senior Municipal Engineer Michael von Hausen Co-project Manager Calum Srigley Urban Designer Al Endall Architect East Acreages ii East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Table of Contents Executive Summary...................................................................................................................... 2 PART 1: THE VISION 1.0 Community Building Blocks............................................................................................. 10 1.1 Vision........................................................................................................................ 12 1.2 Guidance: Principles that direct the Vision........................................................... 14 2.0 Site Context....................................................................................................................... 16 2.1 Plan Location........................................................................................................... 16 2.2 Ownership................................................................................................................ 16 2.3 Existing Land Uses.................................................................................................. 16 2.4 Existing Land Use.................................................................................................... 18 2.5 Adjacent Land Uses................................................................................................ 18 2.6 Adjacent Area Structure Plans............................................................................... 20 2.7 Topography.............................................................................................................. 22 2.8 Existing Lot Sizes..................................................................................................... 24 2.9 Existing Densities within Town............................................................................... 25 3.0 Policy Context.................................................................................................................... 26 3.1 Enabling Legislation................................................................................................ 26 3.2 Land Use Framework.............................................................................................. 26 3.3 Calgary Regional Partnership / Calgary Metropolitan Plan................................. 27 3.4 Town of Chestermere Municipal Development Plan............................................. 28 3.5 Rocky View County / Chestermere Annexation Agreement.................................. 29 4.0 Design Criteria.................................................................................................................. 30 5.0 Public Engagement........................................................................................................... 32 5.1 Overview................................................................................................................... 32 5.2 Development Timing and Interest.......................................................................... 35 5.3 Summary................................................................................................................. 36 iii Table of Contents PART 2: THE PLAN 6.0 Land Use........................................................................................................................... 40 6.1 Land Use.................................................................................................................. 40 6.2 Development Statistics........................................................................................... 51 6.3 Land Use Policies.................................................................................................... 54 6.4 Residential Policies................................................................................................. 56 6.5 Commercial Policies................................................................................................ 58 6.6 Environmental Policies........................................................................................... 60 6.7 Parks & Open Space Policies................................................................................. 63 6.8 Institutional and Community Policies.................................................................... 66 7.0Transportation................................................................................................................... 68 7.1 Overview................................................................................................................... 68 7.2 Pathways & Trails..................................................................................................... 73 7.3 Public Transportation.............................................................................................. 73 7.4 Transportation Policies.............................................................................................74 8.0Servicing............................................................................................................................ 76 8.1 Overview................................................................................................................... 76 8.2 Water Servicing....................................................................................................... 76 8.3 Sanitary Servicing................................................................................................... 76 8.4 Storm Water Servicing............................................................................................ 78 8.5 Servicing Policies.................................................................................................... 80 9.0Implementation................................................................................................................. 88 9.1 Overview................................................................................................................... 88 9.2 Amendment............................................................................................................. 88 9.3 Amendments to Land Use Bylaw........................................................................... 88 9.4 Interpretation........................................................................................................... 89 9.5 Implementation Policies......................................................................................... 90 East Acreages iv East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Table of Figures Figure 1.1: Future Vision of East Acreages................................................................................ 13 Figure 2.1: Site Context.............................................................................................................. 17 Figure 2.2: Existing Land Use Designations (Zoning)............................................................... 19 Figure 2.3: Policy Influences...................................................................................................... 21 Figure 2.4: Topography............................................................................................................... 23 Figure 5.1: Development Timing and Interest of Landowners................................................. 35 Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept.................................................................................................... 41 Figure 6.2: Character Areas....................................................................................................... 48 Figure 6.3: Infill Development Example..................................................................................... 50 Figure 6.4: Environmental Features.......................................................................................... 61 Figure 6.5: Parks and Trails........................................................................................................ 65 Figure 7.1: Transportation Concept............................................................................................ 69 Figure 7.2: Range Road 281 Cross-section - Interim Development Option............................. 71 Figure 7.3: Range Road 281 Cross-section - Interim Future 4-Lane Concept......................... 71 Figure 8.1: Servicing Concept.................................................................................................... 77 v East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Executive Summary Executive Summary Purpose The purpose of the East Acreages Area Structure Plan (ASP) is to develop a land use plan for the future development or redevelopment of the East Acreages Plan Area. The Plan complies with the Town’s Municipal Development Plan and incorporates innovative and sustainable urban design and planning principles. Context 28 29 27 26 25 30 22 23 24 19 8 9 5 4 Town 14 of Chestermere 13 CNR 18 12 TWP. RD. 241a7 11 3 RGE. RD. 280 16 TWP. RD. 243 6 2 1 35 36 31 25 30 791 17 21 RAINBOW ROAD 20 CONRICH ROAD HIGHWAY 1 The East Acreages is a 138 hectare (342 acres) area located on the eastern border of the Town of Chestermere, which was annexed into the Town in 2009. There are 65 individual properties within the Plan area, with the majority of properties being between 2 – 6 acres in size. During a preliminary consultation in 2012 over 85% of landowners in the East Acreages were in favour of the Town completing an Area Structure Plan, with costs for the ASP being repaid to the Town through the development process. HWY TWP. RD. 240 32 34 33 27Structure Plan 26 28 East Acreages Area RGE. RD. 281 RGE. RD. 282 29 RGE. RD. 283 Rocky View East Acreages Area Structure Plan East Acreages 2 MAP 4 PLANNING AREAS East Acreages Area Structure Plan MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN CHESTERMERE Process and Public Engagement On November 6, 2013 an intensive public engagement workshop took place involving over 40 residents and landowners from the East Acreages. The design team then took the feedback from that workshop and spent two days developing land use designs and concepts. These preliminary designs were then presented to the residents and landowners on November 8, 2013 reflecting feedback that focused desires for incremental development, mixture of single-detached and moderate multi-unit residential development, pathways, open space, an elementary school and neighbourhood commercial. “ We want to see good traffic flow, no cul-desacs, good neighbours that work together, mature trees and preservation of land values. “ The Town initiated the East Acreages Area Structure Plan in the spring of 2013 with background studies completed that summer. The purpose of these studies was to determine the design criteria and development constraints of the land. The background studies included: historical resources overview and clearance, biophysical assessment, Phase I environmental site assessment, geotechnical investigation, transportation review, and infrastructure review. These studies formed the base data which was used to inform the land use concept and vision for the area. ~Comment from table group at 2013 public engagement The Area Structure Plan is based on the feedback received during the public engagement, the preliminary design concepts and subsequent feedback received from landowners and Town staff and administration. 3 Vision for East Acreages The vision for the East Acreages is a community inspired by its rural roots and natural landscape that will develop incrementally over time. The East Acreages will exhibit choice and diversity of quality housing, respect for adjacent neighbourhoods and municipalities, promote active transportation, and provide educational and neighbourhood retail services. Land Use Concept The land use concept emphasizes the ability of the area to develop incrementally over time in a compatible and sustainable manner. Residential land uses have been strategically located with a variety of housing choices from single-detached lots to row house and townhouse-style developments. Two wetlands will be the centrepieces of the community, providing both recreational opportunities and storm water management. Overall densities will meet the Municipal Development Plan range of 5-7 units per acre. Commercial land use will be limited to neighbourhood commercial at the intersection of Range Road 281 and Township Road 241A. A school site and open space area will be located off of Township Road 241A, providing for a public elementary school and possibly a separate elementary school on a joint-use site. East Acreages 4 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Land Use Concept MERGANSER DR E HIGHWAY 1 / TCH 1 R-S R-M E LAKEVIEW RD R-S R-S R-M E P L R-S C RANGE RD 281 LAK P-S I C R-M R-S LAKE ERE ESTATES TWP RD 241A LEGEND MERGANSER DR E 0 R-S 50 100 200 ROAD NAMES MUNICIPAL BOUNDARY PLAN AREA 300 400 500m R-S RESIDENTIAL SINGLE / SEMI-DETACHED (PROPOSED NEW LAND USE DISTRICT) R-M RESIDENTIAL - MULTI-UNIT (PROPOSED FOR R-4 LAND USE DISTRICT) C COMMERCIAL - LOCAL (PROPOSED FOR L-C LAND USE DISTRICT) P-S PUBLIC SERVICES (PARKS) (PROPOSED P-S LAND USE DISTRICT) I INSTITUTIONAL (PROPOSED P-S LAND USE DISTRICT) WETLANDS (PROPOSED P-S LAND USE DISTRICT) Land Use Concept: The Land Use Concept balances compact development with open space and natural feature conservation. See Section 6.0 Land Use for details. 5 Implementation The East Acreages ASP will be implemented incrementally over time based on the availability of municipal servicing. The land use policies reflect both the long-term full build-out of the area as well as short-term development policies. Policies emphasize creating a sustainable community with high-quality development standards. East Acreages 6 East Acreages Area Structure Plan 7 East Acreages 8 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Part 1: The Vision 9 1.0Community Building Blocks The East Acreages will be a unique community within Chestermere that reflects its rural roots and conserves its rolling topography and natural wetland features. BACKGROUND STORY: Foundation to the Future The East Acreages have a tradition of small to large acreages and farms. Wetlands have risen and fallen over the years as features in the community. A rolling landscape spotted with trees and buildings still reflects that prized rural quality and character. These are elements that define it and are foundation blocks to move forward, recognizing that introducing new more compact development will erode some of these qualities. The community made a decision in 2009 to be annexed within the Town of Chestermere boundaries to improve services and become part of a more urban community in the longer term. The Town of Chestermere in liaison with the local community owners then determined through a public consultation process in 2012 that the overwhelming majority of land owners want to proceed with an Area Structure Plan process to determine the future land uses and associated infrastructure needs for these lands. In 2013, a consulting team was chosen to proceed with developing the East Acreages Area Structure Plan. This document is the result of that process. East Acreages 10 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan There are a number of challenges and opportunities that come with such an undertaking that need to be addressed: 1. Foremost in many residents minds is how can they develop their own property over time or sell it to a developer with some assurances that development is possible and that infrastructure (potable water and sanitary sewer) can be provided to service the property? 2. Alternatively, while waiting for urban servicing, what innovative ways can land owners use to include more housing units on their property while adhering to acceptable servicing standards and regulations? 3. For those land owners who want to remain on their property, how can they further develop their property with more housing? 4. How can we maintain the desirable rural character, to the extent possible, while development occurs? 5. How do some owners who live on proposed park land or school land obtain compensation for their land? 6. Finally, how is all the proposed development coordinated so existing and new residents enjoy the benefits of more improved services, a complete trail network and a future elementary school? These and other challenging questions and opportunities are addressed throughout this ASP and have been discussed with the community. Every effort has been made to answer these questions and set firm policy directions for future development. 11 VISION 1 .1 Vision Inspired by its rural roots and natural landscape features, the Chestermere East Acreages will become a more compact community where: 1. Diversity and choice of quality housing are available; The East Acreages will create a compact community with improved urban services but strives to retain the wide open space feel and rural qualities. 2. Existing residents within and adjoining the planning area are integrated and/or respected as part of new development; 3. Residents and visitors can choose walking and cycling as a means of mobility in the community; 4. A future school(s) is provided within the community as needed; 5. Local neighbourhood services are eventually provided for daily needs; and 6. The health, well-being and culture of the community and the environment are respected and realized within the greater context of the Town of Chestermere. East Acreages 12 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Figure 1.1: Future Vision of East Acreages from Charrette Figure 1.1 provides a vision for a community that follows the desires of the land owners in terms of redevelopment where some choose to redevelop while others (existing houses shown shaded in black) may choose to remain in their current state. Note: This sketch does not in any way commit the existing land owners to remain or redevelop. It is simply used to reflect one vision at one point in time. 13 1 .2 Guidance: Principles that direct the Vision Integrate Flexibility and Innovation: Promote a variety of housing types, flexibility of phasing and growth that can respond to market demand and the provision of water and sanitary sewer services Retain Existing Rural Landscape Character and Features: Retain significant trees, views and landscape features such as the designated wetlands. Integrate Flexibility & Adaptability for Aging in Place: Provide strategies that enhance well-being and social interaction in the built environment and allow for the possibility of affordable living in the same neighbourhood throughout one’s lifetime. Minimize Impacts of Redevelopment: Respect the adjoining uses and landscapes in sensitive redevelopment that contributes green space and amenities while providing appropriate built form. Improve Mobility: Encourage a variety of transportation networks such as greenways, trails, pathways, bike routes, and, in the longer term - transit to the adjoining areas. Provide Safe and Social Public Places and Spaces: Encourage the development of linked public places and spaces for gathering and interaction between the various uses. East Acreages 14 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Combine Stormwater Drainage: Provide a stormwater drainage system that combines with the existing wetlands on the property that enhances wildlife habitat and nature education while managing on site water in a responsible manner. Natural Path for Water: Embrace a natural path for water by using the buildings, landscape, and natural habitat to emulate nature’s water cycle, optimizing wastewater reuse, minimizing potable water use, and enhancing overall aesthetic and educational appeal. Conserve Energy and Reduce Waste: Use innovative building and site planning methods to conserve energy and reduce waste. Encourage Environmental Stewardship: Promote continued environmental responsibility and lifestyles including tree stewardship, waste reduction and energy conservation. Plan for Community Infrastructure and Servicing: Ensure that public and private investment in public infrastructure is well planned to gain maximum value and efficiency, especially for roads, servicing, and providing a future school site in the planning area. 15 2.0Site Context 2.1 Plan Location The East Acreages is located adjacent to the Town’s eastern boundary with Rocky View County and is immediately south of Highway 1 (TransCanada Hwy) (see Figure 2.1). The Plan area is approximately 138.4 hectares (342 acres) in area with a total of 65 individually titled parcels. Rocky View County is located to the immediate east and south of the site. The Plan area was part of the lands annexed from Rocky View County in 2009. 2.2 Ownership The Plan area consists of 65 individual legal lots ranging in size from 0.8 ha (2 acres) to 16 ha (40 acres) (see Figure 2.2). A small number of landowners retain ownership of more than one parcel of land; however it is still a relatively large number of landowners. For the most part landowners live on their own property. A small number of numbered companies own land within the Plan area, which may suggest some future development interests. According to the East Acreages ASP Consultation Summary Report (Appendix B), the majority of residents have owned land or been a resident for greater than 10 years, with a handful of residents for greater than 30 years. 2.3 Existing Land Uses The majority of the Plan area is used for country residential purposes. Acreage lots ranging in size from two to 40 acres, usually with one or more accessory buildings, are the dominant land form in the Plan area. There are no obvious commercial or industrial uses in the Plan area, although home businesses may be present. Natural features will be explained in detail in Section 4.3. A few large wetlands are located in the middle of the Plan area and along the eastern border. At the present time there are a number of vacant parcels of land. The largest parcels of open space within the Plan area have been recently cropped, where possible, around the wetlands. East Acreages 16 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 29 Site Context 28 27 26 25 30 22 23 24 19 8 9 5 4 Town 14 of Chestermere 13 CNR 18 12 TWP. RD. 241a7 11 3 RGE. RD. 280 16 TWP. RD. 243 6 2 1 35 36 31 25 30 791 17 21 RAINBOW ROAD 20 CONRICH ROAD HIGHWAY 1 HWY TWP. RD. 240 32 34 33 27 26 East Acreages Area Structure Plan RGE. RD. 281 28 Legend RGE. RD. 282 29 RGE. RD. 283 Rocky View East Acreages Structure Plan TownArea Boundary Figure 2.1 MAP 4 PLANNING AREAS CHESTERMERE MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 17 2.4 Existing Land Use All lots in the Plan area are currently designated (zoned) Large Lot Rural Residential (LLR) and Rural Residential (RR) (See Figure 1.2). Adjacent lands to the south are either within Rocky View County or zoned UT - Urban Transition within the Town. Lands to the west are zoned R-1E – Residential Estate, while lands to the southwest are zoned R-1EM – Residential Estate Modified and R-1 – Residential Single Detached. To the north lands are zoned UT and LLR. To the northeast some lands are zoned BP LI – Business Park / Light Industrial. size. West of the Plan Area are the Estates of Chestermere, a large lot residential area with frontages approximately 30 m (98 ft.). Further west are Chestermere’s lake front lots, which back onto Lake Chestermere. The lake front lots are generally long and narrow, with frontages from 15m (50 ft.) to 25m (82 ft.). 2.5 Adjacent Land Uses East of the Plan Area are a number of other acreages, agricultural land, a wetland and secondary provincial Highway 791. To the southeast is Chestermere High School. Immediately north of the Plan Area is Highway 1 (TransCanada Highway). The highway is a four lane divided highway, with two lanes each way and at-grade intersections. It is likely in the future the at-grade intersections will be removed and replaced with above grade interchanges. An existing service road is located directly south of Highway 1, which parallels the highway. The Town’s MDP has designated the area for a combination of business park, residential and commercial land uses. Township Road (Twp Rd) 241A bounds the Plan Area immediately to the south and acreages approximately 2-3 acres in size are located across Twp Rd 241A. These acreages are accessed from three cul-de-sacs. Also south of Twp Rd 241A and east of Lake Ere Estates is a large parcel of agriculture land used for cropland. Southwest of the Plan Area is Kinniburgh North, a recently developed large estate lot residential community with lot frontages ranging in size from approximately 15 m (50 ft.) to 22 m (72 ft.) or 1/10th acre to a ¼ acre in East Acreages 18 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Existing Land Use Designations (Zoning) Figure 2.2 19 2.6 Adjacent Area Structure Plans There are numerous Area Structure Plans and other proposed developments within the Town of Chestermere that will influence the development of the East Acreages (see Figure 2.3). South of the Plan Area are two ASPs, Southeast and a future ASP area. Construction of the Southeast community is already underway and contains the Kinniburgh neighbourhood. Further to the south and west is the Edgewater Crossing ASP which outlines plans for a residential community complemented with a mix of commercial and public uses, including a proposed school site. The development of these other areas within the Town will directly impact the market viability of any future development within the East Acreages as well as the cost of providing municipal servicing to the East Acreages. East Acreages 20 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 28 29 27 26 25 30 27 26 25 30 23 24 19 Policy Influences HIGHWAY 1 29 28 20 21 HIGHWAY 1 RAINBOW ROAD AREA THE ESTATES OF WESTMERE 22 1A AY HW HIG CALGARY 9 8 HIGHWAY 1A CITY OF CALGARY 9 8 5 4 ST. GABRIEL THE ARCHANGEL SCHOOL REC. CENTRE CHESTERMERE LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL 3 CNR Edgewater Crossing ASP AL CNR Edgewater Crossing ASP R CN ID CA (in progress) 2 L W ID 35 future ASP CA NA L 6 CHESTERMERE HIGH SCHOOL NA 7 R CN 1 6 36 31 36 31 26 25 East Acreages ASP: Policy Influences East Acreages ASP boundary REGIONAL RETAIL/ TOWN CENTRE Legend MIXED USE AND VILLAGE CENTRE 29 28 BUSINESS PARK/ EMPLOYMENT RGE RD 283 GENERAL URBAN (PREDOMINANTLY RESIDENTIAL) Elements from Municipal Development Plan Map OPEN SPACE/ RECREATION/ REGIONAL TRAIL TRANSITION LAND(PREDOMINANTLY USE GENERAL URBAN RESIDENTIAL) DRAINAGE CONSTRAINT REGIONAL RETAIL/ TOWNAREA CENTRE GATEWAY FEATURE MIXED USEENTRY AND VILLAGE CENTRE BUSINESS PARK/ EMPLOYMENT 27 Area 26 Structure Plan Policy Area Other Elements 25 HIGHWAY 791 Other Elements RGE RD 281 27 Elements from Municipal Development Plan Map 35 RGE RD 281 34 RGE RD 282 CORRIDOR RGE RD 282 28 RGE RD 283 CAN AL 33 HIGHWAY 791 WID CAN W ROCKY VIEW FUTURE EastINDUSTRIAL Acreages ASP: Policy Influences GROWTH WID RGE RD 284 RGE RD 284 32 Legend 29 CHESTERMERE HIGH SCHOOL Sierra Vista 1 ASP Southeast ASP ROCKY VIEW FUTURE GROWTH 34 33INDUSTRIAL CORRIDOR TWP RD 240 7 12 SOUTHEAST ASP 3 4 11 Southeast ASP SOUTHEAST ASP 2 18 12 LAKE ERE LAKE ERE TWP RD 240 CNR 11 East Acreages ASP RAINBOW FALLS 18 HW 12 HW 12 CNR 32 Bayfield ASP RAINBOW FALLS 5 TWP RD 243 14 East Acreages ASP 13 CHESTERMERE CHESTERMERE LAKE LAKESIDE LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL GREENS 19 MOUNTAIN VIEW PARK CONCEPTUAL SCHEME CHESTERMERE LAKESIDE LAKE PRAIRIE WATERS ANNIVERSARY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GREENS PARK Westmere ASP 1A Waterbridge HIGHWAY 1A ASP 16 13 14 FOUNDERS POINT RGE RD 280 ST. GABRIEL THE ARCHANGEL SCHOOL 24 23 RGE RD 280 REC.PEAKE JOHN CENTRE PARK MEMORIAL AY 17CITY OF ANNIVERSARY PARK WESTMERE Waterbridge MASP 16 HW CITY OF CALGARY RAINBOW THE ROAD PRAIRIE WATERSESTATES AREA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF 22 Westmere ASP 21 TWP RD 243 HIG 17 FOUNDERS POINT RAINBOW ROADRAINBOW ROAD CITY OF CALGARY 20 CONRICH ROAD CONRICH ROAD JOHN PEAKE MEMORIAL PARK 30 30 East Acreages ASP boundary Area Structure Plan Policy Area OPEN SPACE/ RECREATION/ REGIONAL TRAIL Figure 2.3 LAND USE TRANSITION DRAINAGE CONSTRAINT AREA GATEWAY ENTRY FEATURE 21 2.7 Topography The site topography is typical of rolling prairie, creating some internal views of lower wetland areas. The central higher area east of Range Road 281 provides some significant views west towards the City of Calgary and beyond to the Rocky Mountains. Figure 2.3 details the existing contours for the Plan area. The south central area of the Plan area, just west of Range Road 281 contains the lowest elevations and therefore, also the wetlands. The land rises to the west approximately 5-7 metres in height to the edge of East Lakeview Road. To the east of Range Road 281 the land rises approximately five metres to the north northeast before dropping down a few metres to the eastern border of the Plan area. It seems unlikely that the contours within the Plan area will pose any significant hardship on future developments; however the low areas containing wetlands should be carefully considered in future planning. East Acreages 22 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Topography Figure 2.4 23 2.8 Existing Lot Sizes There are a variety of lot sizes and types within the East Acreages. There are 65 total lots ranging in size from approximately 0.8 ha (2 acres) to 16 hectares (40 acres) (see Table 2.1). The vast majority of lots are less than 6 acres in area, covering over 52% of the Plan Area. EXISTING LOTS TYPE EXISTING LOTS BYBY SIZESIZE CATEGORY 0-3 acre lots 27% > 6 acre lots 41% 3-6 acre lots 32% Table 2.1: Sizes of Existing Lots Lot Size # of lots % of total lots % of total plan area 0.-1.2 ha (0-3 acres) 26 40.0% 15.1% 1.21 ha - 2.4 ha (3-6 acres) 31 47.7% 37.2% 2.41 ha - 4 ha (6-10 acres) 1 1.5% 2.0% 4.1 ha - 6 ha (10-15 acres) 2 3.1% 12.1% 6.1 ha - 8 ha (15-20 acres) 4 6.2% 16.5% >8 ha (20 acres) 1 1.5% 11.7% Total 65 100% East Acreages 24 East Acreages Area Structure Plan 94.5% (remaining 5.5% is public roads and other land uses) Area Structure Plan 2.9 Existing Densities within Town Table 2.2: Density Sample Areas Streetview The Town’s Municipal Development Plan (MDP) stipulates new residential areas will achieve a gross density between 5-7 units per acre (UPA). Should the Town’s MDP be amended to align with the density targets in the Calgary Metropolitan Plan, an East Acreages ASP amendment may be required. Aerial View Area & Density Community: East Lakeview Shores Gross UPA: 4.5 Avg. Lot Width: 50 ft. (15m) In order to fully understand the range of existing densities within Chestermere some preliminary analysis was conducted using aerial photography. Three sample areas within the Town were chosen. For each area the gross residential density was calculated to determine if it was above, below or within the Town’s goal for 5-7 UPA set out in the MDP. Community: West Creek Gross UPA: 5.4 Avg. Lot Width: 45 ft. (14m) Density calculations were made by adding up the total estimated number of dwelling units in an area and dividing by the total area to determine the gross number of units per acre. The three sample areas were 4.5, 5.4 and 15 UPA respectively (see Table 2.2). Community: Westmere Gross UPA: 15 Avg. Lot Width: 25 ft. (8m) Images source: Google Maps 25 3.0Policy Context 3.1 Enabling Legislation The East Acreages ASP has been prepared in accordance with Section 633 of the Municipal Government Act which enables municipalities to adopt Area Structure Plans to provide a framework for future subdivision and development of an area of land. Specifically, Section 633 of the Municipal Government Act (Revised Statutes of Alberta, 2000, Chapter M-26) specifically states: Draft South Saskatchewan Regional Plan 2014 - 2024 633 (1) For the purpose of providing a framework for subsequent subdivision and development of an area of land, a council may, by bylaw, adopt an ASP. (2) An ASP a) must describe i) the sequence of development proposed for the area, ii) the land uses proposed for the area, either generally or with respect to specific parts of the area, iii) the density of population proposed for the area either generally or with respect to specific parts of the area, and iv) the general location of major transportation routes and public utilities, and b) may contain any other matters the council considers necessary. 3.2 Land Use Framework East Acreages 26 East Acreages Area Structure Plan The Land Use Framework was released by the Province of Alberta in December 2008 and provides a framework for land use planning and growth management that considers economic, social and environmental goals. The Land Use Framework has resulted in the creation of the Land Use Secretariat and seven Regional Advisory Councils that are responsible for the development and implementation of seven Area Structure Plan separate Regional Plans. The seven Regional Advisory Councils oversee seven different regions based on major watersheds. The seven regions include: South Saskatchewan, Red Deer, North Saskatchewan, Upper Athabasca, Upper Peace, Lower Athabasca, and Lower Peace. Town of Chestermere is located within the South Saskatchewan Region. The South Saskatchewan Region ranges from the Rocky Mountains to the west, the Canada-U.S. border to the south, the AlbertaSaskatchewan border to the east and north to the tip of the Municipal District of Bighorn. Planning and consultation for the South Saskatchewan Region is underway and a draft plan has recently been released. A preliminary review of the draft South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP) indicates there will be no significant implications. Calgary Regional Partnership Calgary Metropolitan Plan June 2012 cover is in separate fold-out file Canmore Located just minutes from Banff National Park, the Town of Canmore has extensive recreational opportunities and strong growth potential in tourism and the health/wellness sector. Canmore is the permanent home of 12,300 citizens, with an additional 6,000 non-permanent residents. Future priorities include regional transit, developing pedestrian route systems, enhancing the downtown core and maintaining the fine balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship. Chestermere The Town of Chestermere is home to more than 14,600 residents just east of Calgary. This dynamic lakeside community is the fastest growing municipality in Alberta, with a population base that has more than doubled in the past eight years. With its youthful population, strong recreational focus and growing business sector, Chestermere has been the community of choice for many Alberta families and businesses. Cochrane 5 The Town of Cochrane is rich in western heritage, and its residents are highly educated, affluent and family-focused. Now home to more than 17,580 residents, Cochrane has experienced a 28 per cent population growth in five years. The town continues to grow its business and residential base with a commitment to sustainability and a proactive regional focus. Priorities include recreation and culture, community connectivity and economic development. High River 3.3 Calgary Regional Partnership / Calgary Metropolitan Plan High River has a population of 13,000 residents south of Calgary, and features an award-winning medical centre, a thriving film industry and numerous attractions that celebrate the area’s culture and western heritage. Priorities for the town include downtown revitalization, industrial development, flood management, creating safe, walkable communities, developing cultural and recreational facilities, expanding community events, transit and green initiatives. Irricana Irricana is a quiet residential community with a strong agricultural base. The town celebrated its centennial in 2011, and today includes several tourist attractions and recreational facilities that celebrate the area’s heritage. From its location northeast of Calgary, Irricana is focused on continued sustainable growth and prosperity, with an emphasis on developing and maintaining a wellbalanced community. Irricana is home to 1,160 citizens. 6 Chestermere is also a participating member of the Calgary Regional Partnership (CRP), which adopted the Calgary Metropolitan Plan (CMP) in 2009 and subsequently updated in 2012. The CMP provides a guide for sustainable development within the member municipalities of the CRP, which stretch from Banff in the west, to Nanton in the south, Strathmore to the east and Irricana in the northeast. The CMP sets forth land use planning policies for the member municipalities. 27 3.4 Town of Chestermere Municipal Development Plan A Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is the highest level plan within a municipality. The Town of Chestermere’s MDP was adopted in July 2009 and provides a framework for future growth, planning and development within the Town. “ Future residential neighbourhoods […] will incorporate a mix of low to medium density housing types such as single detached, duplex, and townhouse developments. .” MDP Section 3.1 East Acreages 28 East Acreages Area Structure Plan The MDP land use map designates the Plan Area for future development considered general urban (predominantly residential). The MDP further explains that “future residential neighbourhoods are the predominant land use throughout the Town […] and will incorporate a mix of low to medium density housing types such as single-detached, duplex, and townhouse developments. Opportunities for medium to high density housing types such as townhouses and low-rise apartments-style condos will be provided in select locations adjacent to community and regional open spaces and commercial services.” The most relevant MDP policies and how they have been addressed in the East Acreages ASP are outlined in Section 6.0: Land Use. Area Structure Plan 3.5 Rocky View County / Chestermere Annexation Agreement Annexation Board Order The latest Chestermere Annexation, also known as Board Order No. MGB 018/09 took effect on January 1, 2009 and included 2,691 ha (6,650 acres) of land to the west, south and east of the Town, including all of the Plan area for this ASP. Annexation Agreement The Annexation Agreement between Rocky View County (formerly MD of Rocky View No. 44) and the Town of Chestermere includes a commitment to the following: • Develop a joint Intermunicipal Development Plan; The Board Order containing the following provision applies to lands within the East Acreages Plan area: • Update the Town’s Municipal Development Plan, and “(2) Lands and improvements within the annexation area, other than farm property, will be assessed by the Town of Chestermere on a market value basis and will be taxed at the lowest applicable mill rate of either the Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 (now called Rocky View County) or the Town of Chestermere until the earlier of: (a) the occurrence of a triggering event [such as subdivision, rezoning application or local infrastructure improvement] and (b) December 31, 2023. Thereafter, the lands and improvements within the annexation area will be subject to taxation at the same rate as other land and improvements within the Town of Chestermere.” • An Area Structure Plan (ASP) for existing residential acreage areas. The Board Order, particularly the 2023 deadline, may play a significant role in when landowners develop their land or sell their land to a future developer. The relationship between the 2023 deadline and the timing of full infrastructure availability is significant. 29 4.0Design The Town undertook a number of background studies for the East Acreages ASP to better understand the area’s potential for future development. A summary of each background study has been provided in Appendix A and includes: • • • • • • • Environmental Site Assessment Phase I, Biophysical Inventory, Transportation Review, Servicing Review, Historical Resource Overview, Market Analysis and Geotechnical Investigation. Criteria One of the main purposes of the background and technical studies was to obtain an understanding of the development criteria and recommendations for the conceptual ASP design. A thorough understanding of the major constraints, areas of concern, natural features, servicing opportunities and constraints, transportation considerations and market analysis is critical to creating a conceptual land use design that is grounded in the development realities of the area. Below is a summary of the development design criteria for the East Acreages based on current knowledge and results from the background studies. DENSITY 5-7 units per gross acre Source: Municipal Development Plan POPULATION EXPECTED 5,000 -7,000 residents Based on 5-7 units per acre and 3 persons per unit RESIDENTIAL FRONTAGE Minimum 45 ft (13.7m) on single detached lots East Acreages 30 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Source: Municipal Development Plan Area Structure Plan RESIDENTIAL MIX 55% - 65% single detached units Source: East Acreages Market Analysis Report recommendations 35% - 45% multi-unit dwelling units MUNICIPAL RESERVE (parks, schools & open space) 30 acres 10 (10% of developable area) % Source: Town’s Municipal Development Plan Provincial Municipal Government Act requirement SCHOOLS 13 - 15 acres 2 elementary schools (public & catholic) Source: Consultation with School Districts WETLAND PRESERVATION 43 acres Source: East Acreages Biophysical Report recommendations COMMERCIAL AREAS 5 acres Approx. 50,000 sq. ft. Source: East Acreages Market Analysis Report recommendations 31 5.0Public Engagement 5.1 Overview The public engagement for the East Acreages ASP began with an interactive community design workshop on November 6, 2013. The workshop was well attended with over 40 landowners and residents in attendance (although only 38 individuals signed the registration sheet). Workshop participants were divided into seven table groups, provided with a large base map, markers, paper, and were asked to answer three questions: 1. What do you want to save? (15 minute discussion) 2. What will make a great neighbourhood in Chestermere East Acreages? (15 minute discussion) 3. Where should the following land uses be located? (30 minute discussion) Each group was then asked to present their group’s findings and discussion. The following is a summary of the responses from each group. East Acreages 32 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan What do you want to save? • Low density character / acreage lifestyle • Quality of neighbours / neighbourhood • Low traffic volumes • Transportation access • Wetlands / water features / wildlife • Property values • Existing trees • Viewscapes (mountains / wetlands) • Special or sacred places • Access to the lake What will make a great neighbourhood in the East Acreages? • Quality development • Boulevard streets • Parks and walkways / bikeways • Seniors housing / age-in-place • Walkability • Health care • Shopping / retail • Higher density in appropriate locations built with quality design • Schools • Sports fields / recreation facilities • Community Centre • Access to the Highway 1 • Emergency services (fire, police, EMS) • Open Space • Diversity of housing types • Municipal services (water, sewer, roads, garbage, fire hydrants) • No busy chain fast food outlets • Sound barriers from Highway 1 33 Where should the following land uses be located? Low Density Residential • Along E. Lakeview Drive • Lake Ere Estates • NW area of site • Along Range Road 281 Medium Density Residential • SW area of site • SE area of site • Along Range Road 281 • West ¼ • Along Highway 1 Schools • Approx. 100m east of NE • NW corner of Rge Rd 281/ corner of Rge Rd 281/Twp Rd Twp Rd 241A junction 241A (x5 groups) • West side of Rge Rd 281 approx. 200m north of Twp Rd 241A Parks • SW corner of site • Around/adjacent to wetlands (x6) Neighbourhood Commercial • NW corner of the site • NE corner of the site • Junction of Twp Rd 241A and • Along Twp Rd 241A Rge Rd 281 • SW corner of the site East Acreages 34 East Acreages Area Structure Plan • Along Range Road 281 Area Structure Plan 5.2 Development Timing and Interest Landowners and workshop participants were asked to indicate their development interest (short-term, medium or long-term) on a map using coloured dots. The results was a strong consensus of landowners who indicated they wished to develop their properties in the short-term (0-5 years) as shown on Figure 5.1 . Only three landowners cited an interest in developing their property in the longterm (20+ years). Development Timing & Interest of Landowners Landowner Development Interest Short-term (0-5 years) - 85% Figure 5.1 Medium-term (5-15 years) - 6% Long-term (20+ years) - 9% Note: This figure in no way commits workshop participants/ landowners to a specific development timeframe but is simply an indication of potential development timing. 35 5.3 Summary The public workshop provided an excellent opportunity to obtain feedback and ideas from the community. Participants were quite engaged through the duration of the evening. One of the major benefits of the workshop was how fellow landowners and residents of the East Acreages worked together in table groups to answer the questions. This in itself is an important component of community building. As stated earlier the feedback provided both commonalities and differences from which to base the land use concept for the East Acreages. Questions 1 and 2 solicited many similar answers while Question 3 (Where should land uses be located?) had some noted differences between the groups and a few surprising similarities. One of the similarities was the location of a proposed school site(s). Five of the seven groups proposed the school site to be located just east of the Twp Rd 241A/Rge Rd 281 junction. On the other hand, the neighbourhood commercial area was proposed in many different locations within the ASP area, with a few groups commonly placing it also around the Twp Rd 241A/Rge 281 junction. East Acreages 36 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 37 East Acreages 38 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Part 2: The Plan 39 6.0Land Use 6.1 Land Use The Chestermere East Acreages will be a distinct and unique community within the Town of Chestermere. All new development in Chestermere to date has simply developed large “green fields” that have previously been used for agricultural pursuits. In this case, the Chestermere East Acreages is redeveloping 65 parcels that, in most cases, already have residences on the property. These parcels range in size from 2 to 40 acres. This kind of redevelopment is challenging because of the number of owners, the size and configurations of the properties, and the varying future plans and interests. Yet, if completed in a cohesive and respectful way, can combine to create for a more compact and betterserved community. The Land Use Concept for Chestermere East Acreages illustrated in Figure 6.1 provides for a variety of housing types that accommodate a variety of age groups and needs. Singledetached residential areas allow both single-detached homes and semi-detached homes. Multi-unit residential areas allow for town houses and row houses. The Commercial area located at the intersection of Range Road 281 and Township Road 241A allows for a variety of local retail and business uses that serve local needs as illustrated in Figure 6.2 and Figure 6.3. East Acreages 40 East Acreages Area Structure Plan One school site is located in the southeast part of the Plan Area along Township Road 241A with a central “Greenway” (trail system) bordering the northern edge of the site. This Greenway is deigned to connect the east wetland, across the west wetland, and through to Chestermere Lake. The comprehensive trail and pathway creates loops around the wetlands and connects the various residential enclaves within the Chestermere East Acreages. A proposed bikeway/pathway along the east side of Lakeview Road will connect Township Road 241A with Merganser Drive East. Area Structure Plan Land Use Concept MERGANSER DR E HIGHWAY 1 / TCH 1 R-S R-M E LAKEVIEW RD R-S R-S R-M E P L R-S C RANGE RD 281 LAK P-S I C R-M R-S LAKE ERE ESTATES TWP RD 241A LEGEND MERGANSER DR E 0 R-S 50 100 200 ROAD NAMES MUNICIPAL BOUNDARY PLAN AREA 300 400 500m R-S RESIDENTIAL SINGLE / SEMI-DETACHED (PROPOSED NEW LAND USE DISTRICT) R-M RESIDENTIAL - MULTI-UNIT (PROPOSED FOR R-4 LAND USE DISTRICT) C COMMERCIAL - LOCAL (PROPOSED FOR L-C LAND USE DISTRICT) P-S PUBLIC SERVICES (PARKS) (PROPOSED P-S LAND USE DISTRICT) I INSTITUTIONAL (PROPOSED P-S LAND USE DISTRICT) WETLANDS (PROPOSED P-S LAND USE DISTRICT) Figure 6.1 41 The nine Character Areas illustrated in Figure 6.5 are intended to further direct the form and character of the sub-areas in the Chestermere East Acreages ASP. These Character Areas in no way affect the basic land use designations. Some areas have common natural features, and location characteristics that define them. For example, the development surrounding the 2 major wetlands should have similar character that is sensitive to their location and form of development. The target density for the East Acreages is 5 to 7 units per gross acre in accordance with the Municipal Development Plan. Individual developments may exceed or be below this target density in certain instances. For example, in the singledetached residential densities may be lower, while in the multiple-unit residential densities will be higher with an overall average of 5 to 7 units per gross acre. Figure 6.5 and Figure 6.6 illustrates the incremental development of properties from on a sample 4 acre property that exhibits an initial density of 0.25 units/acre to an optimum target of 6 units/acre through 4 separate subdivisions. The extent and timing of development will be determined to a large extent by the availability of potable water and sanitary sewer supplies. East Acreages 42 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 6.1.1 Land Use Designations The land use designations detailed on Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept are explained below. Future land use designations proposed for amendments to the Town’s Land Use Bylaw should reflect these designations. Residential Single-Detached and Semi-Detached (R-S) The single-detached land use areas will have single-detached and semi-detached homes as permitted uses. This will allow the East Acreages to meet the minimum required density of 5-7 units per acre over time while not changing the singledetached character of the neighbourhood. This will require the creation of a new land use district in the Town’s Land Use Bylaw. Residential Multi-Unit (R-M) Land uses permitted in the R-M area will align with the Town’s existing Residential Multi-Unit R-4 land use district. Stacked townhouses and row houses are permitted with the provision that transitions to single-detached areas are sufficiently designed into the architectural character (see Town of Chestermere Design Guidelines). Local Commercial (C) The retail and office commercial uses permitted along with office and/or office uses on upper floors to a maximum 3 storeys. Separate town houses and row houses permitted in the commercial area and also apartments up to 3 storeys (see Town of Chestermere Design Guidelines). 43 Public Service (Parks) (PS) A central “Greenway” will form the backbone of the park and open space along with the proposed trails around the wetlands and through the community. A park will be dedicated adjoining the commercial area on the west side of Range Road 281 above Township Road 241A. In addition 2 parks have been indicated at the western edge of the site adjoining the pedestrian connection along Lakeview Road to Chestermere Lake. The other park is proposed at the end of the greenway adjacent to the western edge of the east wetland. Institutional (I) One school site is provided on site for a future school(s), the types and sizes to be determined at a later date. Approximately 6 ha (15 acres ) has been dedicated for the school site, which provides potential for a joint use site for both public elementary and Catholic elementary schools. East Acreages 44 East Acreages Area Structure Plan 6.1.2 Nine Character Areas The Land Use Concept is further divided into “Character Areas” that relate to the specific geographic location, natural amenities and adjoining uses (see Figure 6.3). Sample Image These Character Areas are meant to further inform the application of type and form of development. Character Area Description 1. Country Clusters: Single-detached designated area mixed with semi-detached units set in open space at compact densities. The areas may be served by linked grid system of roads for efficiency with a series of linked pathways and trails. 2. Meadow Clusters: Multiple-unit designated area that permits row houses and town houses well-integrated into the surrounding single-detached areas, providing more compact housing for a variety of age groups. 3. Parkland Estates East and West: Single-detached homes that border the east and west wetlands with required setbacks. 45 4. Country High Street Edges: Single-detached area bordering Range Road 281 that accommodates a potential road widening in the longer term to allow for increased use. This area still should have fronting houses that could be a result of subdivided adjacent properties. 5. Community Village: Mixed use commercial and residential area that provides local services and a meeting place for residents. A main street environment with small shops and local businesses will be complemented by residences above and multiple-unit residences adjoining the commercial uses. 6. Lakeview Corner: Multiple-unit corner populated area with town homes and row houses compatible in form and character with adjoining single-detached development. East Acreages 46 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 7. Lakeview Road Edge: Single-detached development area that is similar to the existing single detached character on the west side of the road. A bike pathway will be incorporated on the east side of the road as part of redevelopment. 8. Lake Ere Estates: Existing single-detached estate residential subdivision that has potential for further subdivision while maintaining the rural and estate qualities of the area. Lake Ere Estates is the only area that has potable water servicing. 47 Character Areas Figure 6.2 East Acreages 48 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 6.1.3 Subdivision and Development Options The ability to develop the East Acreages in a step-by-step manner will be very important to the preservation of the area’s character and a logical development pattern. The following sequence of diagrams (noted collectively as Figure 6.3) illustrates step-by-step how an existing acreage lot could be developed over time. Five basic steps have been detailed on the illustration and have been described below. 1. The original 4 acre parcel; 2. Subdividing and adding 4 additional parcels along the road (Township Road 281); 3. Subdividing further and adding 8 additional parcels on the interior of the lot while still maintaining all the existing buildings; 4. Subdividing further by adding 9 additional parcels while maintaining one existing building; and 5. Finally, subdividing a further 3 lots to yield 24 lots on 4 acres or the targeted 6 units per gross acre, while also allowing vehicular access across the property to adjoining properties for their future expansion. It is recognized that not all developments will go through all five steps, some developments may naturally skip some of the shown steps. However the drawing is meant as an example of how sensitive incremental development may occur in the East Acreages. 49 Infill Development Example 1. Existing 4 acre lot 0.25 unit per acre 2. 1.25 units per acre 3. 3.25 units per acre 4. 5.5 units per acre 5. 6 units per acre Figure 6.3 East Acreages 50 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 6.2 Development Statistics The tables below are estimates of the potential build out capacity and land use distribution of the East Acreages Plan Area. Estimates are based on the Land Use Concept (Figure 6.1) and associated land use designations. Table 6.1 Description Area (acres) Area (hectares) % of Total Area Gross Land Area 341.35 138.14 100.00% Wetlands (ER) 56.39 22.82 16.52% Net Developable Area 284.96 115.32 83.48% ER = environmental reserve The land areas associated with the Land Use Concept (Figure 6.1) have been outlined below. Table 6.2: Land Use Concept Area Calculations Description Area (acres) Area (hectares) % of Developable Area Residential Single & Semi-detached (R-S) 140.88 57.02 49.44% Residential Multi-Unit (R-M) 84.54 34.21 29.67% Local Commercial 11.49 4.65 4.03% Parks & Open Space (MR) 18.75 7.59 6.58% Institutional / School (MR/SR) 13.99 5.66 4.91% Existing Roads 15.31 6.20 5.37% 284.96 115.32 100.00% Net Developable Area MR = Municipal Reserve | SR = School Reserve 51 MDP ”New General Urban residential areas should provide a density in the range of 5 to 7 units per gross acre.” MDP Policy 3.2 (4) MDP THE PLAN East Acreages has a residential density of 6.97 dwelling units per gross acre. (see Table 6.3 ) THE PLAN ”Minimum lot width for singlefamily houses in General Urban residential areas is 13.75 metres (45 feet.)” Single-detached lots will have a minimum frontage of 13.75 metres (45 feet). MDP Policy 3.2 (5) (see Table 6.3 ) East Acreages 52 East Acreages Area Structure Plan 6.2.1 Residential Development Statistics Based on the Land Use Concept (see Figure 6.1) the following density calculations can be used to estimate the total build out population of the East Acreages (see Table 5.3). As previously mentioned full build-out may take 20 to 30 years depending on the timing of full servicing infrastructure to the Plan Area. The residential development mix of total units is approximately 43% single, semi-detached and coach house units compared to approximately 57% multi dwelling units. In regards to the distribution of the residential land area: single/semi-detached lots account for 62.5% compared to 37.5% for multi-unit lots. The strategy is to achieve the density target of the Town’s MDP and the Calgary Regional Partnership, while still maintaining an overall single and semi-detached character of the East Acreages and its links to the surrounding countryside. Area Structure Plan Table 6.3: Residential Dwelling Unit Density Calculations Land Use Area (acres) Units per acre (UPA) Total Units 67% single-detached units @45 ft./unit 94.39 5.50 519 33% semi-detached units @30 ft./unit 46.49 8.25 384 n/a n/a 130 140.88 7.33 avg. UPA 1,032 50% rowhouses 42.27 15 634 50% townhouses 42.27 17 719 Total 84.54 16 avg UPA 1,353 Totals 225.42 10.58 avg. net UPA 2,385 Grand Totals for entire Plan Area 341.35 6.97 avg. gross UPA 2,385 Residential Single & Semi-detached (R-S) Coach houses (25% of single-detached lots) Total Residential Multi-Unit (R-M) 53 MDP 6.3 Land Use Policies ”New neighbourhoods will be designed to add to the vibrancy and small town recreational character of Chestermere.” MDP Section 3.2 MDP ”Neighbourhoods should have distinctive character with centrally located community services and recreational opportunities.” MDP Section 3.2 THE PLAN The Plan provides a greenway corridor and central commercial area complemented by a joint-use school site. East Acreages 54 East Acreages Area Structure Plan The following policies direct the future development of the Chestermere East Acreages Area. The multiple-unit residential and commercial areas shall also conform to the applicable sections in the Town of Chestermere Design Guidelines. These include sections 2.1 Site Plan Essentials and 2.2 Green Infrastructure and Building Features in addition to the specific sections applicable to multipleunit residential – section 3.1, and commercial development – section 3.2 within the Design Guidelines. The Chestermere East Acreages area presents an opportunity to develop a community that builds on the existing form and character of this unique area largely developed at rural large lot densities with some vacant parcels. At the same time, it is important that any development follow the Town of Chestermere’s overall standards, regulations and policies. Area Structure Plan Objective: to follow current planning, engineering, and other overarching governing standards, regulations and policies of the Town of Chestermere. Policy 6.3.1: All development in the Chestermere East Acreage area shall follow Municipal Development Plan (MDP) policies, unless otherwise stated, and these MDP policies shall supersede the Area Structure Plan policies where there is conflict. Policy 6.3.2: All development in the Chestermere East Acreage area shall meet the Town of Chestermere engineering standards and regulations unless otherwise accepted by the Town. Policy 6.3.3: All development shall conform to Policy 6.3.1 and 6.3.2 at the time of development. MDP ”An ASP will establish a detailed mix of land uses, community theme and identity, population projections, sustainable development initiatives, parks and open spaces, more detailed servicing, neighbourhood nodes...and phasing for future outline plans..” MDP Section 3.2 (2c) 55 MDP 6.4 Residential Policies ”To ensure that a range of housing types and price levels can be provided in new neighbourhoods the following housing forms will be allowed: large lot single-family housing; secondary suites; low-rise, street-oriented housing; and low-rise apartment-style condos with street-oriented design features.” MDP Section 3.2 THE PLAN There shall be a range of housing types within the Plan Area that will include single-detached houses, semi-detached houses, town houses, row houses and apartments up to a maximum of 3 storeys. Policy 6.4.3 East Acreages 56 East Acreages Area Structure Plan The Chestermere East Acreages area shall provide a wide variety of residential land uses in a neighbourhood that will accommodate a diverse population. The housing types will include single-detached, semidetached, town houses, row houses and apartments up to 3 stories. Secondary suites will be permitted in the single-detached areas. The form and character of the residential developments on the west and south edges of the site will be sensitive to the adjoining existing single-detached residential land uses. Multiple-unit residential design will be directed by the Chestermere Design Guidelines. Objective: to accommodate a diversity of more residential development options yet respect the form and character of the existing residences on site and adjoining residential developments. Policy 6.4.1: Residential development shall generally be located as illustrated on Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept. Policy 6.4.2: Residential development in the Chestermere East Acreage area shall meet a minimum overall residential density of 5 to 7 units per gross acre. Policy 6.4.3: There shall be a range of housing types within the Plan Area that will include single-detached houses, semi-detached houses, town houses, row houses and apartments up to a maximum of 3 storeys. Policy 6.4.4: Single-detached houses will be permitted to have a secondary suite. Area Structure Plan Policy 6.4.5: Residential development shall be groundoriented with accesses directly to the street or common area, excepting the upper floors of the apartments or mixed use commercial areas. Policy 6.4.6: Residential development adjoining existing single-detached residential development on the south and west of the site shall look similar in form and character. Policy 6.4.7: Residential development in the multipleunit areas shall meet a minimum density of 10 units per gross acre and shall not exceed 3 stories in height. Policy 6.4.8: Multi-unit dwellings shall comply with the Chestermere Design Guidelines regarding multiple-unit residential development. Objective: to encourage mixed-use residential design in the south commercial mixed use area. Policy 6.4.9: The south commercial area will have commercial service and retail uses on the ground floor and may have residential units and/or office space on the upper floors with a maximum height not to exceed 3 storeys. MDP ”Multi-family dwellings should be designed with careful attention to location, scale and appearance that enhances the broader context of the project.” MDP Section 3.2 (13) THE PLAN Multi-unit dwellings shall comply with the Chestermere Design Guidelines regarding multipleunit residential development Policy 6.4.8 57 MDP 6.5 Commercial Policies ”A continuous multi-use bicycle/pedestrian trail system should be provided to connect neighbourhoods to important community facilities, shopping areas, and employment opportunities.” MDP Policy 3.2 (9) THE PLAN The commercial area will be connected to the residential areas by pathways or trails to provide easy access for pedestrians and cyclists. Policy 6.5.3 The Chestermere East Acreages will have a neighbourhood commercial development on the southern edge of the property at the intersection of Township Road 241A and Range Road 281. These office and retail service uses will provide for the daily needs of the Plan Area while the greater needs of the community will be provided elsewhere in the Town. The intention is to provide a variety of smaller commercial uses in the Plan Area that can support local needs. Residential uses will also be permitted on the upper floors in the neighbourhood commercial area. The local commercial development will be supported by a convenient cyclist and pedestrian pathway and trail network. Home-based businesses will also be permitted in the Chestermere East Acreages area. The Chestermere Design Guidelines will further help ensure that the scale and character of the commercial area is compatible with the surrounding residential community. Objective: to provide commercial opportunities to service local needs. Policy 6.5.1: Commercial development shall generally be located as illustrated on Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept. Policy 6.5.2: Neighbourhood commercial services and retail development will be required at the south end of the Plan Area to service local needs while permitting residential and office uses on upper floors. East Acreages 58 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Objective: to encourage pedestrian and cyclist uses of the commercial area. Policy 6.5.3: Sidewalks with landscaping will be located in the commercial area with parking located to the rear or middle of the buildings. Policy 6.5.4: The commercial area will be connected to the residential areas by pathways or trails to provide easy access for pedestrians and cyclists. Policy 6.5.5: The commercial area will incorporate outdoor sitting areas and patios as part of extending uses like a café and bakery that invite residents and visitors to linger, mix and interact. Objective: to integrate the form and character of the commercial area into the residential character of the Chestermere East Acreages community. Policy 6.5.6: Commercial buildings shall help contribute to creating a distinctive community and shall be compatible with adjoining residential development. Policy 6.5.7 Commercial buildings and development shall meet the design guidelines as set out in the Chestermere Design Guidelines. Objective: to provide access in accordance with Town of Chestermere standards. Policy 6.5.8: All access points and access separation shall be in accordance with Town of Chestermere standards. 59 6.6 Environmental Policies Environmental management will be an important component in the Chestermere East Acreages development as existing natural features, tree stands, and wetlands will form a natural and rural character of the community. These environmental features will contribute to the stormwater management as well as the parks and recreation on the site. Objective: to conserve the natural integrity and character of the site area. Policy 6.6.1: The Class IV wetlands illustrated on Figure 6.4: Environmental Features may be used for stormwater management. Policy 6.6.2: All development shall comply with the Town’s Wetland Policy. Policy 6.6.3: Wetland setbacks shall be determined by the Town’s Wetland Policy. Policy 6.6.4: All proposed developments shall describe how the environmental features identified on Figure 6.4: Environmental Features will be addressed in the proposed development. This may be required at the Outline Plan, re-designation or subdivision stages of development. Policy 6.6.5: Environmental, biophysical and geotechnical assessments shall be completed as required by the Town at subsequent stages of development, for example Outline Plan, Development Permit and/or Subdivision stages. East Acreages 60 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Environmental Features LEGEND 0 50 100 200 300 400 500m WETLANDS CLASS IV CLASS III CLASS II Figure 6.4 61 MDP ”Stormwater management facilities including wet ponds, constructed wetlands or natural wetlands will be incorporated in the drainage system for stormwater storage and treatment purpocses.” MDP Policy 4.2 (4) THE PLAN The Class IV wetlands illustrated on Figure 6.4: Environmental Features may be used for stormwater management. Policy 6.6.1 Policy 6.6.6: The Town may consider opportunities for education or interpretive programs in association with the two large wetland areas on the site. Policy 6.6.7: The Town may consider the viability and environmental impact of a pedestrian pathway east-west across the largest wetland on the site as illustrated on Figure 7.1: Transportation Concept. This would provide a pedestrian connection from the west most area of the site to the commercial and school areas. East Acreages 62 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan 6.7 Parks & Open Space Policies The parks and recreation program in the Chestermere East Acreages area builds upon the natural features of the site. The east and west wetlands will become major features in a central trail and park system. The wetlands may be constructed to be part of the storm water system and also act as a natural sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. The parks will be interconnected by a trail and pathway system building on the Town’s Master Recreation Plan. The parks and recreation system will build on the natural elements and contribute to the diverse population demands in the community further through the existing joint use agreement with the local schools. The agreement with potential schools will help further the Plan Area’s outdoor and indoor recreation and education opportunities. Objective: to dedicate Municipal Reserve (MR) in accordance with Town policy to ensure provision of adequate parks, open space and school sites. Policy 6.7.1: Parks and open space shall generally be located as illustrated on Figure 6.5 Parks and Trails and Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept. Policy 6.7.2: All developments shall dedicate parks and open space as illustrated on Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept. If the required 10% municipal reserve is not met through the dedication of land the developer shall provide cash-inlieu of providing land in accordance with Town Policy and the Municipal Government Act. 63 MDP ”Major recreational parks (20+ acres) will be created at central locations within residential areas.” MDP Policy 3.6 (6) THE PLAN The East Acreages ASP dedicates over 30 hectares (75 acres) of land to wetlands, parks and open space. Policy 6.7.3: Where necessary the Town may need to purchase lands for parks and open space to ensure completion of the parks and open space network illustrated Figure 6.1. This shall be done in accordance with Town Policy governing municipal reserve and the Municipal Government Act. Policy 6.7.4: Municipal Reserve lands shall be available for public use in accordance with Town policies. Objective: to develop a parks and recreation network that provides recreation for a variety of ages and needs. Policy 6.7.5: A pathway and trail network shall be developed that creates pedestrian and cyclist connections between parks, open spaces, gathering areas, adjoining neighbourhoods and the regional trail system. Policy 6.7.6: The pathways and trail system shall be developed generally as illustrated on Figure 7.1: Transportation Concept to link the east and west wetlands, surrounding residential areas, schools and commercial areas. Policy 6.7.7: All trails will be in accordance with the Town of Chestermere standards. Policy 6.7.8: All school sites shall have sufficient pedestrian or pathway connections to encourage children to walk to school. East Acreages 64 East Acreages Area Structure Plan E CHESTERMERE DR Parks and Trails MERGANSER DR E RANGE RD 281 E LAKEVIEW RD HIGHWAY 1 / TCH 1 LAK E P L LAKE ERE ESTATES TWP RD 241A LEGEND MERGANSER DR E 0 50 100 200 300 400 500m PLAN AREA EXISTING LOCAL ROAD MUNICIPAL BOUNDARY WETLAND PROPOSED TRAILS/PATHWAYS PROPOSED ROUNDABOUT PROPOSED TRAIL / BIKEWAY FUTURE HWY1 ACCESS CLOSURE POTENTIAL OVERPASS ROAD NAMES PARKS PROPOSED SCHOOL SITE Figure 6.5 65 MDP ”The Town will continue to support a full range of elementary and secondary educational opportunities through cooperation with local school boards..” MDP Policy 5.1 (6) THE PLAN The East Acreages ASP dedicates 5.4 hectares (13.26 acres) of land for schools; providing enough land for two elementary schools, if designed as a joint use site. East Acreages 66 East Acreages Area Structure Plan 6.8 Institutional and Community Policies The future school(s) will be the institutional and community facilities in the East Acreages area. A positive relationship between the community and the future schools will bring the future potential of joint use of the school’s outdoor and indoor facilities to the community. Policy 6.8.1: Future school sites shall be located as illustrated on Figure 6.1: Land Use Concept. A minimum of 5.4 hectares (13.26 acres) shall be dedicated for a schools. Additional lands for schools beyond those identified in Figure 6.1 may be required. Policy 6.8.2: Developments shall be required to dedicate municipal reserve in accordance with Town Policy and the Municipal Government Act. Policy 6.8.3: Where necessary the Town may need to purchase land for schools as identified on Figure 6.1 to ensure timely development of any future school sites. This shall be done in accordance with Town Policy governing municipal reserve and the Municipal Government Act. Area Structure Plan Objective: to pursue collaborative opportunities with the public and catholic school districts Policy 6.8.4: The Town will encourage co-operative use of parks, open space and school sports fields between the Town and the school districts. Policy 6.8.5 The Town will encourage collaborative planning for schools between the Town and the school districts as per the Joint Use Agreement. Policy 6.8.6 The Town will encourage the creation of a joint-use school site to optimize the amount of land required for schools. 67 7.0 Transportation 7.1 Overview A comprehensive review of the regional and local transportation networks in the vicinity of the Plan Area was completed to provide the necessary background information for the Transportation Concept (see Figure 7.1). The design team used the results of the transportation review to create both the land use concept and the transportation concept. A summary of the transportation review can be found in Appendix A. The transportation concept is based on optimizing the use of existing roads and creating a modified grid design that will provide excellent connectivity for vehicles, pedestrians and other active modes of transportation (Figure 7.1). The most significant challenge for the road design were the two large wetlands, which do not allow for east-west connectivity of vehicles across the Plan Area. Given the lack of east-west connectivity effort has been made to provide a strong north-south road network. Major arterial and collector roads for the Plan Area include Merganser Drive East and Twp Rd 241A running east-west and E. Lakeview Rd and Range Rd 281 facilitating north-south movement. One of the main findings of the transportation review was the future closure of the Highway 1/Range Road 281 access. The impact of this closure could be lessened through the creation of a fly-over or underpass across Highway 1, which Alberta Transportation stated was a viable option when the closure is completed. East Acreages 68 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan E CHESTERMERE DR Transportation Concept MERGANSER DR E E LAKEVIEW RD HIGHWAY 1 / TCH 1 LAK RANGE RD 281 E P L LAKE ERE ESTATES TWP RD 241A LEGEND MERGANSER DR E 0 50 100 200 300 400 500m PLAN AREA PROPOSED ARTERIAL ROAD MUNICIPAL BOUNDARY PROPOSED COLLECTOR ROAD PROPOSED LOCAL ROADS EXISTING LOCAL ROAD PROPOSED TRAILS/PATHWAYS WETLAND PROPOSED TRAIL / BIKEWAY PROPOSED ROUNDABOUT ROAD NAMES FUTURE HWY1 ACCESS CLOSURE POTENTIAL OVERPASS Figure 7.1 69 7.1.1 Arterial Roads: Range Road 281 and Township Road 241A Range Road 281 will eventually become the major four lane arterial within the Plan Area facilitating north-south traffic. The potential creation of a fly-over or underpass of Highway 1 will facilitate a large portion of the traffic from East Acreages heading west to Calgary. The transportation review estimated that a majority of traffic (approx. 80%) out of the East Acreages will go north on Range Rd 281 before connecting to Highway 1 and heading west towards Calgary. Due to the proposed large volume of traffic along this road, it is recommended that a 30m right-of-way (R/W) be accommodated on Range Rd 281. Additional width for the R/W should be taken at the time of subdivision of new lots along the road. However, prior to full build-out and closure of the Highway 1 access, Rge Rd 281 will begin as a two lane road with a large boulevard that can be converted to the additional lanes in the future (see Figure 7.2 and Figure 7.3). When the additional lanes are required the roadway design will need to change, including the re-location of the existing trees and streetlights to the new boulevard area (Figure 7.3). Despite the changes in the streetscape design over time the urban design of Rge Rd 281 should promote street-oriented housing and encourage walkability and active modes of transportation. Although the road must accommodate a large number of vehicles the vehicle speed is not as important as the uninterrupted flow of vehicles. Roundabouts are recommended at the intersections of Twp Rd 241A, Merganser Dr E. and mid-way (400m) between Twp Rd 241A and Merganser Dr E.. In general, arterial roads (e.g. Rge Rd 281) should have 400 metre spacing between major intersections (i.e. intersections with other major East Acreages 70 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Figure 7.2 Figure 7.3 71 collectors or arterials). This will allow for proper development of signal progression. Spacing on arterial roads for unsignalized intersections is recommended at 200 metres for achieving back to back left turn slots. 100 metre spacing is recommended on arterials for right-in/right-out accesses. Township Road 241A is proposed as an arterial road to facilitate east-west movement, including future vehicle traffic to the proposed full interchange at Highway 1 and Highway 791 east of the Plan Area. This interchange will be the primary option for eastward vehicle movement on Highway 1 when the closure at Range Road 281/Hwy 1 is completed. A minimum number of intersections are proposed on Twp Rd 241A, thus facilitating the present vehicle movement pattern, which is largely uninterrupted flow. One significant proposed change along Twp Rd 241A is a roundabout at the intersection with Range Rd 281, which is presently a four-way stop. 7.1.2 Collector Roads: Merganser Drive East and East Lakeview Road Two existing roads, East Lakeview Drive and Merganser Drive East will serve as collector roads for the East Acreages. For collector roads, a minimum of 60m spacing between minor intersections is recommended. In addition, the roundabouts are recommended at major intersections, including: E. Lakeview Dr. / Twp Rd. 241A; Merganser Dr. E. / E. Lakeview Dr.; and Merganser Dr. E. / Rge Rd. 281 (see Figure 7.1). 7.1.3 Internal Roads Internal road design will minimize the use of cul-de-sacs in accordance with the policies of the Town’s Municipal Development Plan. As per Figure 6.1 a modified grid pattern will be required throughout the Plan Area. East Acreages 72 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Interim developments should be designed for future grid connectivity to ensure the overall grid pattern can be completed at full build-out. Where necessary, cul-de-sacs may be permitted as an interim measure. A minimum 60 metre spacing between intersections is recommended for internal local roads; however 100 to 150 metre spacing should be achieved at major intersections to facilitate development of left turn lanes. 7.2 Pathways & Trails Pedestrian connectivity is a priority in the East Acreages land use and transportation concept. Pathways and trails provide a means for both transportation and recreation. Where possible, these two functions have been integrated. For example, proposed trails link across the large wetland providing a scenic route to access the commercial area and school site. The proposed trail network has strong east-west connectivity that is lacking in the vehicle network due to the presence of the large wetlands. 7.3 Public Transportation Although there is no current public transit system in Chestermere at this time, the planned residential density will support a system in the future. The Calgary Regional Partnership (CRP) is involved with regional transit studies and may be able to provide support in the future. Timeframes for implementation are not yet known. In order to ensure future transit compatibility the road network should be planned to accommodate buses both in terms of network continuity, and in terms of on-street bus stop infrastructure. Neighbourhoods should be planned to minimize walking distances to transit corridors, especially around senior and multiunit developments. From a regional transit perspective, planned transit hubs should have convenient pathway networks to the residential neighbourhoods, as well as bicycle and vehicle parking facilities nearby. On street facilities will be consistent with the Town’s Master Recreation Plan, providing adequate facilities for alternative modes of transportation. One future priority is maintaining or enhancing the relationship between East Acreages and Lake Chestermere through pathway and trail connections. 73 MDP 7.4 Transportation Policies ”New neighbourhoods shall provide a high degree of road and pedestrian connectivity to allow for shorter travel distances and greater dispersal of traffic.” MDP Policy 4.1 (8) THE PLAN The transportation concept is based on optimizing the use of existing roads and creating a modified grid design that will provide excellent connectivity for vehicles, pedestrians and other active modes of transportation ASP Section 7.1 The road network in Chestermere East Acreages area will build on the local grid network. Merganser Drive East, Lake View Road, Township Road 241A and Range Road 281 will continue to serve the community. Additional local and collector road in addition to Lake Place and Lake Ere Estates will serve the internal needs of the community. The transportation network within the Chestermere East Acreages area will encourage walking and cycling through a comprehensive pathway and trail system. They will connect the residents with local commercial uses and parks. The pathway and trail system will also be connected to the surrounding areas and local schools to further enhance alternative travel modes. Local streets with sidewalks will create a pedestrianscaled and safe local street network that will be designed to accommodate future public transit. Objective: to provide connectivity to the surrounding road network. Policy 7.4.1: The road network within the East Acreages shall generally be designed as illustrated on Figure 7.1: Transportation Concept. Policy 7.4.2: The East Acreages road network shall comply with the Town’s Transportation Master Plan. Policy 7.4.3 The road network within the Chestermere East Acreage area shall link the Plan Area with the surrounding road network. Objective: to develop public roadways that create a clear hierarchy of roads that is safe and efficient while creating a walkable community East Acreages 74 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Policy 7.4.4: The cross-sections of all new roadways within the Plan Area shall follow the Town of Chestermere road standards and alternative engineering standards as approved by the Town of Chestermere. Policy 7.4.5: Interim and full-build out cross-sections for Range Road 281 should generally be designed as illustrated in Figure 6.2 and Figure 6.3. MDP ”Local residential streets should be connected between neighbourhoods and developments to disperse traffic and promote walking. The use of cul-de-sacs should be minimized” MDP Policy 3.2 (8) Policy 7.4.6: The Town may require dedication of rightof-way at the time of subdivision to provide adequate future roadway. Policy 7.4.7: Roundabouts are recommended at major intersections as illustrated on Figure 6.1. Policy 7.4.8: Arterial roads should have 400m spacing between major intersections. Objective: to mitigate vehicular noise along Highway 1 and Range Road 281. Policy 7.4.9: The Town and/or future developments shall provide natural or human-made features to reduce noise from Highway 1. The use of natural features and landscaping are preferred methods for noise mitigation from Highway 1. Objective: to encourage walking in the East Chestermere area. Policy 7.4.10: All public roadways shall have sidewalks or trails on both sides of the street. Objective: to encourage alternative modes of transportation to access school sites. Policy 7.4.11: The school site shall be integrated into a continuous pedestrian and cyclist network of pathways and trails. THE PLAN The Plan connects all East Acreages neighbourhoods, promotes walking and proposes no new cul-de-sacs. MDP ”The Town will anticipate the provision of a future public bus transit system when demand and economic feasibility warrants a system” MDP Policy 4.1 (4) THE PLAN Local streets with sidewalks will create a pedestrian-scaled and safe local street network designed to accommodate future public transit. ASP Section 7.4 75 8.0Servicing 8.1 Overview The long-term vision for the East Acreages is full municipal water, sanitary and storm water servicing to accommodate a build-out population of greater than 4,000 residents. The Town’s Utilities Master Plan 2008 provides the overall framework for all servicing within the Town. This report or any subsequent updated Utilities Master Plan should be consulted for future servicing in the East Acreages. Presently, Lake Ere Estates is the only area within the East Acreages with any type of municipal servicing. This small community of 18 homes has municipal water servicing, but no sanitary servicing. The remaining lots are serviced by individual septic tanks or systems and water wells. 8.2 Water Servicing The Town’s Utilities Master Plan provides the overall guidance for future servicing of the municipal water system. Figure 8.1 summarizes future water servicing for the East Acreages based on the Utilities Master Plan and discussions with representatives from Chestermere Utilities Incorporated (CUI). 8.2.1 Interim Water Servicing Presently there is minimal capacity for the East Acreages to tie into existing municipal water system currently located directly to the west of the East Acreages. If additional capacity does exist for water servicing, some limited interim development of residential units on municipal water may be feasible. Similarly, some additional capacity may exist to service a limited number of additional lots within Lake Ere Estates. Further engineering investigations and Town policy will determine the feasibility. 8.3 Sanitary Servicing The Town’s Utilities Master Plan identifies significant infrastructure requirements to service the East Acreages with municipal sanitary services. This includes construction of one, and possibly two, lift stations and approximately 4 km of sanitary main. These large capital expenditures will make it difficult for developers with only small land holdings to afford to construct this infrastructure required to provide municipal sanitary servicing to their development. Thus, either developers with small land holdings must wait until services come closer or a developer(s) with larger land holdings can construct the infrastructure with the hopes of recovering a portion of the costs from later developers who connect to the system. East Acreages 76 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Servicing Concept HIGHWAY 1 / TCH 1 RANGE RD 281 E LAKEVIEW RD MERGANSER DR E LAK E P L LAKE ERE ESTATES TWP RD 241A LEGEND 0 50 100 200 300 400 500m EXISTING FUTURE / CONCEPTUAL ONLY* LEGAL LOT DESCRIPTION SANITARY MAIN FUTURE SANITARY MAIN LEGAL LOT LINES WATER MAIN FUTURE WATER SYSTEM UTILITIES RIGHT-OF-WAY STORM WATER MAIN FUTURE STORM WATER TRUNK MUNICIPAL BOUNDARY EXISTING LIFT STATION FUTURE LIFT STATION PLAN AREA PROPOSED RESERVOIR * SOURCE: CHESTERMERE MASTER UTILITIES PLAN Figure 8.1 77 MDP ”Stormwater ponds should be sized to serve as large an area as possible to reduce the number of facilities.” MDP Policy 4.2 (6) THE PLAN The large class IV wetlands will be used as the primary stormwater retention facilities for the East Acreages. ASP Section 8.3 East Acreages 78 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Based on information from the Utilities Master Plan and discussions with CUI, Figure 8.1 identifies the approximate alignment of future municipal sanitary servicing for the East Acreages. 8.3.1 Interim Sanitary Servicing There may be potential for limited interim sanitary servicing along the west side of the Plan Area pending further engineering investigations and development of Town policy regarding interim servicing. 8.4 Storm Water Servicing Consistent with the Town of Chestermere’s current stormwater policies and agreements, the East Acreages ASP assumes that the Shepard Regional Drainage Plan (SRDP) and the Use of Works Agreement with the Western Irrigation District will be the guiding documents for stormwater management in the Town. The ASP recognizes that stormwater management plans will also need to be consistent with the Town’s Master Storm Drainage Plan and that there is a possibility that the SRDP plan will be replaced, in part or in whole, by the Cooperative Stormwater Management Initiative. Stormwater policies in this document take all of these plans into consideration. Until an ultimate regional stormwater solution is agreed upon and built, the East Acreages will be required to retain virtually all storm water within the ASP boundary, meaning that storm water must be held and released at a regulated rate and volume in order to minimize any potential downstream impacts. Area Structure Plan The present storm water servicing plan for the East Acreages is for all storm water to be detained within the two large Class IV wetlands in the East Acreages. However, man-made stormwater systems would most likely be required to be built adjacent to the wetlands to meet Alberta Environment standards for water quality to accommodate post-development stormwater of a certain volume. Further, a number of small wetlands identified in the biophysical assessment may be used for local storm water detention if feasible. Both the CSMI and SRDP assume that the long-term stormwater system will include a piped system that will divert stormwater from this area southward either to the Shepard slough or to the WID canal “A.” All applications for an Outline Plan and/or subdivision should clearly specify how storm water and wetland retention will be handled post-development both in the short and longterm. Low Impact Development (LID) best practices for storm water will be encouraged and consistent with the Master Storm Water Drainage Plan. 79 8.5 Servicing Policies The servicing and infrastructure systems include water, sanitary sewer, shallow utilities and communications facilities, stormwater and solid waste. Existing potable water is provided to Lake Ere Estates within the Plan Area. The potable water and sanitary sewer will be connected to the Town of Chestermere systems in the long term. Interim solutions may be considered pending further investigation and development of Town policy pertaining to interim development. Stormwater management will be focused on using the two large Class IV wetlands for retention capacity. Electricity, gas, and telecommunications will be coordinated with the shallow utility companies. Objective: to provide servicing to Town of Chestermere standards Policy 8.5.1: Servicing shall be in accordance with Town of Chestermere engineering standards and requirements unless it can be demonstrated that alternative standards of servicing better meet the requirements. Policy 8.5.2: All developments shall be required to connect to municipal servicing when it becomes available. Policy 8.5.3: All developments shall be required to pay off-site levies as per the Town’s off-site levy bylaw. East Acreages 80 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Objective: to ensure adequate water and sanitary sewer standards are used in the Chestermere East Acreages area Policy 8.5.4: Prior to issuance of a development permit, Engineering Design and Construction drawings shall be provided for the development to the satisfaction of the Town of Chestermere and shall address all the requirements in the Town of Chestermere Engineering Standards. Policy 8.5.5: Any proposed alternatives to the Town of Chestermere servicing standards shall be supported by engineering analysis. 81 STORM WATER POLICIES MDP ”The Town will expand its existing piped stormwater system while encouraging the use of low impact development (LID) and other sustainable practices.” MDP Policy 4.2 (3) THE PLAN All Storm Water Management Plans shall describe how low impact development (LID) strategies will be used in the development. Policy 8.5.10 Objective: to ensure storm water will be managed appropriately in the Plan Area Policy 8.5.6: All development shall comply with the Town’s currently adopted stormwater standards, plans, and agreements. Policy 8.5.7: Policy 8.5.7: The East Acreages ASP recognizes the Town has various options to address storm water at a regional scale, including the Shepard Regional Drainage Plan (SRDP) and the Collaborative Stormwater Management Initiative (CSMI). Currently the SRDP is the approved long-term regional stormwater solution, however all future developments will be required to assume that either of these plans might ultimately be implemented and plan accordingly. Policy 8.5.8: The two large Class IV wetlands identified on Figure 6.1 may be used as the primary storm water retention facilities in the East Acreages until such time as a regional stormwater system is implemented. At such time, retention or modification of the wetlands shall be consistent with the Town’s Wetland Policy and bylaw. Policy 8.5.9: All applications for an Outline Plan or Area Structure Plan shall create a Storm Water Management Plan in compliance with all applicable Town engineering standards and utility plans to the satisfaction of the Town. Policy 8.5.10: All Storm Water Management Plans shall describe how low impact development (LID) strategies will be used in the development East Acreages 82 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Policy 8.5.11: All developments shall describe how the proposed development will comply with Policy 8.5.8 pertaining to usage of the existing wetlands as the primary storm water retention facilities. Policy 8.5.12: Developments may be required to provide temporary/interim storm water retention facilities on-site prior the completion of major storm water retention facilities within the East Acreages (e.g. enhancement of the large wetlands to retain storm water). Objective: balance artificial storm water engineering with natural bio-engineering methods to reduce hard infrastructure costs and improve natural water features Policy 8.5.13: The natural storm water flow on site shall be maintained as much as possible through the use of storm water retention ponds and natural/enhanced wetlands where feasible. Policy 8.5.14: Where necessary, developments may be required to provide storm water service connections to major storm water retention facilities (i.e. enhanced wetlands) in the East Acreages. MDP ”The stormwater conveyance system will be designed to effectively reduce pollutants in urban stormwater in accordance with provincial regulations and best management practices.” MDP Policy 4.2 (3) THE PLAN Policy 8.5.8: The two large Class IV wetlands identified on Figure 6.1 may be used as the primary storm water retention facilities in the East Acreages. Policy 8.5.8 Objective: Improve site water quality and reduce storm water impacts Policy 8.5.15: An Erosion and Sedimentary Control Plan shall be required prior to any construction. 83 WATER SERVICING POLICIES Policy 8.5.16: All water servicing shall comply with the Town’s Master Utilities Plan and servicing agreements with the City of Calgary. Policy 8.5.17: The alignment and capacity of the municipal water distribution system shall be in accordance with the Town’s Utility Master Plan, Town standards and any future utility servicing studies and analysis undertaken and approved for the subject area. MDP ”Water conservation initiatives will be encouraged such as low-flow fixtures, use of grey water, and retained stormwater for onsite irrigation.” MDP Policy 6.1 (4) THE PLAN Water conservation techniques will be encouraged at every stage in the development process... Policies 8.5.19 East Acreages 84 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Policy 8.5.18: The water distribution system for the East Acreages shall be designed to adequately and efficiently serve the full build-out capacity of the area. Objective: reduce the demand for potable water Policy 8.9.19: Water conservation techniques will be encouraged at every stage in the development process which may include, but not be limited to: installation of low-flow fixtures, use of grey water, retained stormwater for on-site irrigation and installation of native plants and xeriscaping, INTERIM WATER SERVICING POLICIES Objective: provide safe and economical interim development opportunities within the ASP area prior to full municipal servicing becoming available to the area. Policy 8.9.20: Prior to the availability of full municipal water servicing to the East Acreages the Town may undertake studies and analysis to determine the capacity for interim water servicing. Area Structure Plan Policy 8.9.21 All costs associated with any interim water servicing options shall be the responsibility of the developer. The Town of Chestermere shall not be responsible for any costs incurred with providing interim servicing to a development. Policy 8.9.22: Prior to municipal servicing being available, single-lot subdivisions may be permitted to be serviced by individual water wells pending approval from provincial authorities and the Town. Policy 8.9.23: All new water wells shall require approval from Alberta Environment. Policy 8.9.24: Prior to approval for any new water well the developer shall be required to undertake a professional Groundwater Investigation to determine the impact/ feasibility of an additional water well on the local aquifer and to ensure sufficient water quality and quantity. 85 MDP SANITARY SEWER SERVICING POLICIES ”The Town shall continue to work with The City of Calgary to ensure the provision of safe, reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound water and wastewater systems.” MDP Policy 4.3 (3) THE PLAN All sanitary sewer and water servicing shall comply with the Town’s Master Utilities Plan and servicing agreements with the City of Calgary Policies 8.5.16 & 8.5.25 Policy 8.5.25: All sanitary sewer servicing shall comply with the Town’s Master Utilities Plan and servicing agreements with the City of Calgary. Policy 8.5.26: The alignment and capacity of the municipal sanitary sewer distribution system shall be in accordance with the Town’s Utility Master Plan, Town standards and any future utility servicing studies and analysis undertaken and approved for the subject area. Policy 8.5.27: The sanitary sewer distribution system for the East Acreages shall be designed to adequately and efficiently serve the full build-out capacity of the area. Policy 8.5.28: Developments may be required to oversize piping to ensure the future build-out capacity of the East Acreages can be adequately and efficiently serviced. INTERIM SANITARY SERVICING POLICIES Objective: provide safe and economical interim development opportunities within the ASP area prior to full municipal servicing becoming available to the area. Policy 8.9.29: Prior to the availability of full municipal sanitary sewer servicing to the East Acreages the Town may undertake studies and analysis to determine the capacity for interim sanitary servicing. East Acreages 86 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Policy 8.9.30 All costs associated with any interim sanitary servicing options shall be the responsibility of the developer. The Town of Chestermere shall not be responsible for any costs incurred with providing interim servicing to a development. Policy 8.9.31: Prior to municipal servicing being available, single-lot subdivisions may be permitted to be serviced by individual septic pump out tanks pending approval from provincial authorities and the Town. Policy 8.9.32: Septic pump out tanks shall be installed by a professional private septic installed in compliance with Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice and the Alberta Regulation 229/97 Private Sewage Disposal Systems Regulation. Policy 8.9.33: Existing septic field systems may be required to be removed in order to accommodate additional development on a lot and/or subdivision. SHALLOW UTILITIES POLICIES Objective: to ensure adequate capacity for shallow utilities and communication facilities in the Plan Area MDP ”Phasing of development shall be in accordance with logical extension of infrastructure and the Town’s capital budget.” MDP Policy 6.1 (4) Policy 8.9.34: All developments shall coordinate shallow utilities capacity and installation such as gas, electricity and telecommunications with the shallow utility companies. 87 9.0Implementation 9.1 Overview Outline plans, development permits and subdivision will be required to implement the intentions of the Area Structure Plan. In this way, the development regulations may be customized to address specific needs for the area including development of the mixed residential densities, forms and requirements associated with the wetland and other unique features. 9.2 Amendment This ASP will require amendment from time to time if any land use, density and associated policies require changes. Any amendment would require staff review, public review and circulation to Council for approval. 9.3 Amendments to Land Use Bylaw The East Acreages Land Use Concept and policies contained within this ASP will require updates to the Town’s Land Use Bylaw. A new land use district will likely to be required to implement the vision for the East Acreages as outlined in this document. For example, the vision for single detached designated areas is to allow both single-detached and semidetached homes as permitted uses in the same land use district. A new land use district will likely be required to allow this form of urban design. East Acreages 88 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Phasing The phasing for the development will be determined by market demand and infrastructure staging. The exact timing and full development completion are difficult to determine as conventional servicing and infrastructure will be largely determined by other areas south of the Chestermere East Acreages. The timing and development pattern is further complicated by 65 separate land owners. From the conventional servicing perspective, the development will probably proceed from the south side of the property following conventional Town of Chestermere servicing. The full development of the area could take 20 to 30 years. However, if alternatives to conventional servicing are developed and accepted by the Town of Chestermere, the pattern of development could be determined, at the least in the short and medium term, by the owners who pursue alternative means of servicing their property. The size of the phases and sequence could change based on market demand, ownership, consolidation by developers and other factors. 9.4 Interpretation The interpretation of the phasing and the associated implementation requirement will be interpreted by Town of Chestermere staff with Council having the final say in any disputes. 89 MDP 9.5 Implementation Policies ”An ASP will be required for all areas and will establish a detailed mix of land uses, community theme and identity, population projections, sustainable development initiatives, parks and open spaces, more detailed servicing, neighbouhood nodes at an approximately 180 to 220 acres” MDP Policy 3.2 (2c) MDP ”Outline Plans shall provide information necessary to support a Land Use Redesignation application and may include detailed site design, road networks and servicing plans.” MDP Policy 3.2 (2c) Objective: to ensure the East Acreages is developed in accordance with the vision of the ASP through a fair and equitable process. Policy 9.6.1 Until such time as Town Water and Sewer infrastructure is operational and available for servicing the East Acreages ASP area, limited land-use redesignation and subdivision may occur subject to ability to connect to existing Town water services and / or approvals for temporary systems subject to Alberta Environment approvals. Policy 9.6.2 Surveyed drawings accompanying subdivision applications shall depict full build-out of the property as well as proposed interim lot configuration. Policy 9.6.3 Interim subdivision plans must assume future road network as depicted in the ASP. Policy 9.6.5 At the time of land-use redesignation landowners shall be required to enter into an Endeavor to Assist in compensation of the total ASP preparation costs. Objective: to ensure the ASP is a living document that can adapt and change over time when necessary. Policy 9.6.6: Where necessary the Town may amend the Land Use Bylaw to fulfill the vision and land use concept for the East Acreages ASP. Policy 9.6.7: The Town may amend this Area Structure Plan from time to time in accordance with the Municipal Government Act. East Acreages 90 East Acreages Area Structure Plan Area Structure Plan Policy 9.6.8: The Town may review this Area Structure Plan after 5 years of its adoption to determine if the extent of any necessary changes. If necessary a review may be undertaken earlier than 5 years. Objective: to ensure the vision of the ASP is implemented through the Town’s Land Use Bylaw. Policy 9.6.9: The Town may wish to amend the Land Use Bylaw to create new land use districts for the R-S land use area to ensure fulfillment of the Plan’s vision. For example, a new land use district would be required to ensure the R-S area allows for both single-detached and semi-detached dwelling units as permitted uses. Objective: to ensure the vision of the ASP is implemented through the Town’s Land Use Bylaw. Policy 9.6.10: The Town may undertake further studies and reports for the Plan Area to confirm, verify or refine the policies and direction in this ASP. These may include, but not be limited to: storm water master plan, transportation master plan, and utilities master plan. Objective: to ensure costs of preparing the ASP are recovered through the development process Policy 9.6.11: The Town shall develop a policy to ensure recovery of costs to prepare the ASP be paid for by developers at specified stage(s) in the development process. 91