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A-1. Key Financial Strategy: Review Work Plan for Downtown Focus Study Y A 4 • CITY Of ClIANIIASSEN q S Chanhassen is a Community for Life-Providing for Today and Planning for Tomorrow H A � MEMORANDUM TO: Todd Gerhardt, City Manager FROM: Kate Aanenson,AICP DATE: May 22, 2017 `(-) SUBJ: Downtown Plan BACKGROUND As the city's commercial business continues to expand outside of the city's core the council has discussed the impact to the downtown area. The zoning in the downtown district is central business. This district allows the most intense development and mix of uses. Redevelopment has been occurring in the downtown. The purpose of this study is provide a guide and framework for future development. In 2002, the Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. (HKGi) created a planning document called "Chanhassen Vision 2002". This document creates some guiding principles for the downtown. These principals were used to evaluate developments. Actions for the plan that have been implemented include: • New Carver County Library • City Center Park and Veteran's Monument • Southwest Transit Park and Ride ANALYSIS Staff contacted HKGi to update the downtown vision plan. The update would include: • Review Demographic and Economic Trends • Build-Out Analysis by Real Estate Type PH 952.227.1100• www.ci.chanhassen.mn.Us • FX 952.227.1110 7700 MARKET BOULEVARD • PO BOX 147 • CHANHASSEN • MINNESOTA 55317 Downtown Plan Memo to Todd Gerhardt May 22, 2017 Page 2 of 2 The proposed time line for to the study is 3-4 months with an estimated cost of$45,000. Attached is the proposal for the study from HKGi as well as the original "Chanhassen Vision 2002" Bryan Harjes from HKGi will in attendance to discuss the elements of the study and answer and questions the City Council may have. ATTACHMENTS 1. Downtown Chanhassen Market Scan 2. Draft Work Plan—Downtown Chanhassen Vision Plan Update—dated 4/2/17 3. Chanhassen Vision 2002 g:\plan\2017 planning cases\downtown plan\cc memo 5-22-17.docx DOWNTOWN CHANHASSEN MARKET SCAN The following outlines tasks associated with a scan of local market conditions and projections, to support the creation of preliminary and preferred planning concepts for the new "Vision" for Downtown Chanhassen, for the next 15 years. The market scan will review existing demographic and economic conditions in Downtown Chanhassen and the surrounding local market area and will outline a build-out analysis, identifying the various marketable development components for the Downtown district over the next 15 years. Review of Demographic and Economic Trends The market scan will identify the existing demographic trends in Chanhassen and the surrounding market area (in terms of population growth, household growth and change, and employment), drawing from information gathered from the City of Chanhassen, Metropolitan Council, nearby municipalities, and other data sources. The scan will identify how the population and household compositions of different age groups in the local area have changed over the last ten years, and how they may continue to change over the next 15 years. It will document trends in household income, educational attainment, and other demographic information. The market scan will discuss how the anticipated demographic trends in the Chanhassen area align with, or differ from, anticipated trends in the Twin Cities region, and the west metro area, with regard to population, households, and other related metrics. The market scan will document existing market conditions in Downtown Chanhassen and in other key districts in Chanhassen and the surrounding local market area (including the Highway 5 corridor, Highway 212 corridor, etc.) in terms of residential, retail, and office land uses. It will document existing conditions with regard to various densities and multi-family product types, and will outline the current performance of Downtown and competing districts with regard to retail and office space. Data from ESRI, CoStar, and local real estate brokers, along with discussions with local real estate owners/operators, will inform this review of existing market conditions. The market scan will identify projects currently planned, or under construction, in the local market area in terms of retail, residential, and office development (including, but not limited to, the potential Avienda development in southern Chanhassen). Build-Out Analysis by Real Estate Type for Downtown Chanhassen Drawing from the existing conditions analyses and projections of demographic growth and change in the Chanhassen area over the next 15 years, the market scan will provide projections of supportable retail, office, and residential development for Downtown over the next 15 years. The market scan will identify the general ranges of supportable square footage (or number of units) in Downtown and will provide information concerning the likely format of new development (in terms of likely tenants, forms of development, etc.). The market scan will not provide a detailed development program as part of this process, but will provide guidance Downtown Chanhassen Market Scan concerning the overall scale and type of development likely to proceed in the Downtown Chanhassen study area over the next 15 years. Drawing from these projections, the market scan will provide inputs for a set of potential development scenarios for different areas within Downtown Chanhassen, that will guide the planning team as it works with the community to shape the recommended "Vision" for Chanhassen's downtown area. Note: The Market Scan Memorandum (anticipated length - 15 to 20 pages) will summarize the findings of the market scan and the key takeaways, in terms of development and build-out recommendations. The memorandum will include a series of tables and maps to convey the various information gathered as part of the exercise. However, this deliverable does not constitute the typical magnitude and scale of documentation associated with a full "Market Study". Downtown Chanhassen Market Scan Draft Work Plan - Downtown Chanhassen Vision Plan Update - 4/2/2017 Key: Bold tasks to be completed by HKGi. Task 1 - Examine Existing Conditions 1-1. Assemble background data and base mapping 1-2. Prepare existing conditions diagram/graphics—buildings; pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle circulation; parking;access points;etc. 1-3. Prepare a summary of existing regulatory guidance—uses, setbacks, parking requirements, access, etc. 1-4. Prepare a summary of existing policy guidance 1-5. Prepare a summary of proposed and pending developments 1-6. Meetings with City Staff to coordinate Task 1 work activities Task 2 - Understand and Discuss Future Potential and Update Vision 2-1. Prepare market scan (see attached description) 2-2. Prepare PowerPoint presentation summarizing market information 2-3. City Council Workshop 2-4. Facilitate Meeting of Key Downtown Property Owners and Tenants 2-5. Meetings with City Staff to coordinate Task 2 work activities Task 3 - Prepare Draft Vision Concept Alternatives 3-1. Prepare draft vision concept alternatives—two concepts (diagrammatic land use— commercial, residential, mixed-use,etc.) 3-2. Prepare alternative development concepts -two concepts(narrative and urban design diagrams—parking and building locations; pedestrian, bike and vehicle circulation; parking; and access) 3-3. Assess infrastructure capacities to accommodate development concepts—identify any needed improvements 3-4. City Council Workshop 3-5. Meetings with City Staff during Task 3 to coordinate work activities Task 4 - Converge on a Preferred Downtown Vision Plan 4-1. Prepare preferred downtown vision concept plan —1 Draft Work Plan v4-2—Downtown Chanhassen Vision Plan Update 4-2. Outline key implementation strategies in collaboration with City Staff—short, mid and long- term 4-3. Prepare plan narrative 4-4. City Council Review 4-5. Meetings with City Staff during Task 4 to coordinate work activities Task 5 - Prepare Final Downtown Vision Plan 5-1. Prepare refinements to Downtown Vision Plan 5-2. Meetings with City Staff during Task 5 to coordinate work activities Draft Work Plan v4-2—Downtown Chanhassen Vision Plan Update . I : aChanhassen Vision 2002 Summary Report Focus on the Downtown September 1994 A Letter from the Mayor and City Council ay Ff Dear Chanhassen Residents: p .-)i. '!�4)1 'Focus on the Downtown'represents the culmination of i • ' ' ':40. Vision 2002,a commmunity-based planning process for { �,��,.� /a�� downtown Chanhassen that commenced nearly one year •.../- ai'ir 'liP ago.As participants in this bold undertaking,we were pleased to witness the dedicated citizen participation in meetings,discussions and committee work.The direct result -,••••••i••,,,,,, •„,;,- a .igilari‘likrgl! of this public process is a suggested plan for the downtown, -1 shown on pages 4-5,which proposes locations for future r i- public facilities,including a post office,library,senior I •..• housing and activity center.The ideas outlined in this news- 1 e tla+•••*” letter were collected through public planning exercises A new city plan focuses on downtownE which defined a vision statement,crafted guiding principles Chanhassen,located near the city's for growth,recognized and prioritized elements critical to eastern border,as the commercial and Before Europeen settlement,Chanhassen's natural landscape was shaped by civic hears of the community. the city's center and then formulated design concepts to open grasslands and sugarbush woodlands. direct planning decisions for the downtown.Together these tools help us get started on the work needed to accomplish our vision. Following the distribution of this newsletter,we'll be canvasing residents for their opinions on these ideas.We look forward to hearing your comments. Mayor Don Chmiel and the City Council -ti - Importance of ather t • A city can be compared to a house.Some homes merely `- I, contain a series of rooms that bear little relationship to one ,.- .' - ti another.This house primarily serves only the most basic - N,-a s. I { l shelter needs.Other houses take into account the complexity - 1 of family life through the arrangement of bedrooms,kitchen, _- .- ' family room and work areas.Together these spaces shape ,�w: - r> ..ti • b opportunities for family interaction. -1c,s .,,; F=''',+-,. • , -., <� 5 Many suburban communities choose to structure their city e....- on the first model.Organized as a loose aggregate of prop- Downtown along West 78th Street,ca.1940. erty owners,this plan discourages community life.On the other hand,growing numbers of forward-looking communi- ties are seeking to create a focus and civic identity for their residents.They begin by establishing a center for civic • activity through a downtown or other shared meeting places. --� Chanhassen fits the model of the city with a focus.It is - blessed with an historic center which dates back to the mid- 19th century.It already has its"family room"where commu- 1 j nity members can congregate,shop or recreate. c s : fit Chanhassen's well-defined downtown also serves the com- , munity by establishing a local identity.This identity helps to - , r^ ,t`. ,li. foster civic pride as well as etch the signature of this uniquev crossroads in the memories of visitors.This ability to capture - :�/' the imagination of both residents and guests is the reason why so many communities today are striving to create a center for civic activity.Luckily,in Chanhassen the first - "'' A: atitz settlers have laid the important cornerstones for succeeding A view along West"hith Street today, generations to build upon. Vision 2002 Process >/ \ OGIrwse-g... /ss\ //` NOVEMmFs_ - - NOY > C/ N- —' SEPTEMBER-, t Oii-T4013E12 > ,. 0 �s , 0 es1 0 e , civ„ i • { ,n �`,.„ CO .I IAA INVtsrl&NT. Rar.4evE- exrt_oa.t AND aVar-ItA-r-e- VISIor-1 SVRVE'{ UVI5 -P 2002 Gob-lc-errs ,+ ttG.SOUt CCS isieu� NevusLf.1TC r_ powNYOWN �r •vow a,'we , ,bT •vac.m.. •..rw'“.Y.I. .xsx++.Mlow.e ■ 1,10 -I1rn...s a s,w..c a..vps...4 n1N A iWflrM RI'r51[h1. •Mµic a,. .w'1PIa ":1,1-7"';`,":•:,- oo,C pr Q# pplN lc ON LtS P1002- SH ytslal N+T ��r• .;rin�,7'' P;7;• r c MWK:•:,-PLrH,> -5 `� OPlul •uTCP-21,IT1r TJNcI 5 re K COAIG.in. The plan for Chanhassenk downtown grew out of a community-based planning process. 2 . Building on the City's Tradition History of Downtown Public Process for Building a Downtown Y Today,downtown Chanhassen is a compact commercial hub In 1858,when Chanhassen was first organized,citizens held a �'Sn�tra Eltt+that rg _- �-61t:Watet in an expanding suburban community.But when it was first public meeting to set a course for their new town.In 1993, �• bong/✓, settled around 1850,mature hardwood forests dominated the citizens were asked to lend insight and knowledge to guide the :..r -- ,i4.-,..-' area.The Dakota tribes called the region Chanhasen,refer- creation of a plan that would reflect the community's needs and --4._. ring to the sweet juice of its numerous maple trees.These desires for its downtown.In a series of public meetings,more_ ( "Big Woods"were especially attractive to the early German than 100 residents participated in a process that defined a and New England settlers.In 1858 the Chanhassen precinct vision and a set of guiding principles for the downtown.An ad "� adopted the Dakota name in a public meeting at the school- hoc committee met frequently over the course of eight months u1ANnnssr:s house.At the same time,officers were elected and structures to further shape this vision and to craft a plan that closely fit -•.- were established to guide the town's future. Chanhassen. The original Chanhassen plat map dated 1898 shows settlement near St. Chanhassen's gradual development as a small trade and The needs and issues considered most important for downtown Hubert's Church. railroad center in a rural township resulted in a limited but Chanhassen's future included: significant collection of now-historic buildings.Turn-of-the- •a balance between the pedestrian and the automobile century houses,old St.Hubert's Church and cemetery,and environment; the Village Hall signal the city's eastern entry and define the •continued opportunities for development of new businesses architectural and cultural roots of the community.These in downtown; buildings are critical markers of the city's history.Together •the need to keep important public facilities downtown; they preserve the attractive fabric of a traditional main street •the recognition that downtown contains historic features while providing lessons for the expansion of downtown. which are important to the community; •the need to plan with some degree of flexibility for Downtown grew slowly through the 1960s.A modest wave changes in the future; of construction around 1970 resulted in new apartment •the strong desire to keep and enhance downtown as the Significant events which buildings,St.Hubert's School and the Chanhassen Dinner center of community life in Chanhassen. shaped downtown during the Theater,all located adjacent to the historic center.Most Also noted were strengths of the existing downtown including: city's early years include: notable about these buildings was the change in scale,form •public buildings located at the center; .1865,dedication of first and siting that formerly characterized the streets of down- 'unique features such as the Chanhassen Dinner Theater; church,St.Hubert's town.Although the sidewalk was not abandoned,these new *nearby residential areas and recreational opportunities; •1880s,current developments stressed the importance of parking for retail •a compact downtown. Klingelhuetz Building developments and diminished the pedestrian experience in Focus group participants felt that downtown could be im- built as carpentry shop or the downtown.Today,the intersection of Great Plains proved by addressing some key issues including: hotel Boulevard and West 78th Street marks the boundary between •a lack of identity from Highway 5; •1885-6,railroad the historic core or traditional downtown and the modem •an incomplete pedestrian network and an emphasis on the constructed through town entertainment,business,retail and civic center of the city. automobile; •1893,Village Hall *the need for night-time activities in downtown; constructed Changes in Chanhassen's downtown continued through the •the lack of senior housing; •1896,village incorporated 1970s with the establishment of the tax increment financing *the need for expanding some public facilities to serve the 8.- (previously platted as St. district(a funding tool used by cities to pay for public growing community. Hubertus in 1887 by the improvements using taxes generated by the new develop- Franciscan Brotherhood) ment).This district spurred development of larger-scale A community survey conducted over the next several weeks •Shift of the depot from commercial projects and brought aesthetic improvements to will provide a critical check for the plan's fit to Chanhassen the north side of the the expanding downtown streets.Today downtown reaches and determine whether or not the plan moves forward to tracks to the south of the from the historic center to Powers Boulevard nearly one mile adoption by the community. newly expanded railroad to the west. •1930s,Pauly's Bar and Lounge constructed as a general store •1968,Chanhassen Dinner Theater opens \ • •1978,Tax Increment •, Financing District created - " •1978,new city hall dedicated , •1980,Business Park ` created • •1989,downtown - ' '-'- ' - infrastructure improved ��'`-i"�ma '..,•^� •� •1989,Old Village Hall "� `., i. -. relocated ,-.N t- •1990,new Chanhassen `r 4' qc,`` ..s.".1 Bank built ,-,14- • •, •1992,Market Square '` Shopping Center opened ` r, •1993.Target opened �. " ► •1994,Byerly's opened '------„„:„.......,'',,..--,---:,,,-;%;413:r j :� T^.,, i ., `tom ,. •• if - 1..: . Today,downtown Chanhassen is a compact commercial hub in an expanding suburban community. Foundations for a Plan • Guiding Principles for Downtown . ` `ti i a�.�a+.�+� Parka and Pedestrian"Pockets' t �� w ttdeA The community's vision for Chanhassen is based on the fol- I O n u ` s, lowing guiding principles.Decision makers can check the fit ` o'a '6'1::° Q a'n! a'+ ;.t /. of new plans by using these rules to evaluate development "112.11114:: [t 0'bh'o / r;'' ;l,` �t... proposals. - •;[ ...:1== I Ij .rq- '� '3 " l�,� r=t ` ,U n l,// Build community. a } �« 'iti. Chanhassen's downtown is the focus of the community's r 13 � �e a ;op :'o culture.Constructing a downtown provides opportunities // � p' to build a commitment to Chanhassen"the place,"to J----'. /� - ;;� z:,, freinforce the traditions of community and to strengthen the / ,n aapoPties between its citizens. - 0 I�— r, e N o r t h� Create a city commons. 1' A public open space for celebrating community life should Outdoor rooms created along West 76th Street torm spaces for meeting be the highlight of the downtown,creating a center of neighbors or local festivals. activity and a focus for the downtown. 1. Connect to the neighborhoods. :,1,s1° Surrounding downtown neighborhoods should be linked, ,,.`jot �.. Pedestrian Ways �J♦• a � . Sidewalk to Building Connections strengthening the relationship between the downtown and ,jj ode o°a the communityit serves. 11 t$'$ gl $io i at Define the edestrian network. nngnuue {7 It" v; Some areas within the downtown should be dedicated (- .-"W 'p"t'---' il __i , 1 •• '4, solely to pedestrian use.They should be clearly defined, r2,11:. r. iiirtiostii:--4-sair- < - p,safe and rovide convenient access to a varier of destina- n�--- ' �'tions.Larger outdoor rooms should be linked to thet7 *'� !►1 I;=O oy pedestrian network,allowing for planned community ^ n airwtI r a gatherings,informal activities or quiet retreat from the [/ /, �� V 1 `t 1� �.p more active uses of the downtown. 1 V r� U ,a In• Nort Mark the downtown. (1I 40 The downtown's entry points and edges should be defined, �' staking them distinct and identifiable.The distinguishing 'Me pedestrian network links neighborhoods to each other and to down- features of the larger Chanhassen landscape should be town,as well as connecting parking lots with buildings. reflected throughout the downtown. Draw from the environment. To build or enhance its character,the downtown should take its cues from its surroundings,recognizing that a r a•e a I e District Edge Ne distinct identity can be created by maintaining strong 1 . "°.t -pr-' ' awl New Development connections to the existing historic and natural environ- !%t L.. ". p r �, a mens. • ..ac n Pobtiel p f i:l II ;/ Mix uses in new development. _Public ' — e-'ti2P� taxa .1 ' 11 Pabbc. .a• Uses within the downtown should be mixed,encouraging `•� is r--`Y"I4 + - people to visit at different times and for a variety of /�"... a ••• . —'f, i � '}'�R '�4 �_�/fit+ purposes. 1 IP■ '.. fS' if,-......, — Park once,shop twice. 0 1.,4, .. - ‘. '' ,.o"comr.erew y gbbo need Users of the downtown should be able to walk comfortably I ., - tata _- .. 1 between destinations,thereby enlivening the public space j4 Wheels] 0 ��` '� �"u go0" N o r t� and reducing automobile traffic. i 1� 1 i II Anticipate the future. Mixed uses in downtown serve residents with a variety of needs The downtown should keep pace with technological and interests. change and readily adapt to the opportunities of the future. • L. ..\*_.! . : Downtown Gnay/IMme P E_-/ o e. ''J o Dnc •• 0 n ons o f16:i�e \ /'r.. ,, aou ❑O n t: • L. r —� �o..i a t....lint .��c• ,a,� �i.6i'` ,� . vp od 1.,,f5/re1•".a Q \ w h'al B++a�ar 1 p` li 4 6 1 eaea "p" rot a°0 Nor l; , Taking cues from the natural environment.each entrance to downtown is marked by different plant materials. 4 Building Blocks for the Downtown The plan illustrated below is a hypothetical scheme Commercial Development developed from a set of concepts which defines downtown Downtown will always be the focal point for commercial Chanhassen's future.An example of one of many concepts activity in Chanhassen.However,space for large new that could be applied to downtown,this plan blends historical commercial development is limited.Opportunities exist for and contemporary elements while drawing meaning from the smaller retail and office development which will foster natural environment.A summary of this section can be found downtown's mixed-use nature and maintain the scale and on page 6. character of surrounding buildings.As larger projects are proposed,a balance must be created between the expansion of City Commons downtown and residents'desire for a compact,walkable Marking the center of downtown Chanhassen is the city commercial core. commons,a group of public spaces and buildings which includes an expanded city hall,library,senior center and a Pedestrian Ways public open space.It lies at the confluence of the major paths Pedestrian ways,developed to connect all areas of the through the downtown and has a strong presence on West downtown,will create a balance with the automobile and 78th Street.A public green extends through the entire site, enliven the entire downtown.Careful placement will allow connecting downtown with the city park at the north side of people to come to the downtown,park their cars and move city hall and the neighborhoods that surround the downtown. between destinations safely and comfortably on foot.The By joining these facilities,the city commons becomes the pedestrian network does not stop at the edges of the centerpiece for social,recreational and civic activity,as well center—it reaches beyond downtown to connect with the as a landmark for the community.Today city hall,the library neighborhoods of Chanhassen.Pedestrian space also includes and the senior center are all operating at capacity.Expansion the space between the street and the front door of buildings, of these facilities as an integrated unit will lower construction where pedestrians will not have to compete with cars to reach costs since many spaces can be shared.But planning in their destinations. common will also ensure the civic complex's prominence in the community's future. Senior Housing Opportunities exist for introducing multifamily housing into Entries the downtown and connecting neighborhoods to the city's The access points into downtown are marked by a series of center.Centrally located senior housing especially is critical "entry rooms"along Hwy.5.These gateways draw on the since it provides older residents with convenient access to character of the environment for their distinctiveness.For continuing adult education,the public library,shopping, example,the entry at Powers Boulevard plays off stands of recreation and entertainment within easy walking distance of native oaks;the Market Boulevard entry is signaled by home. aw Pt6 wetlands that circle the intersection;and sugar maples mark ' ^ the downtown's east entry at Dakota Avenue and Hwy.101. 1 a• f Q ,ice 7, The entries join Hwy.5 and the downtown,but more e.4r 1— dl 1 important,they make a strong connection to the landscape �`��a4�1 t (1 ti:.11.t, of larger Chanhassen. ,�.� !\Senior Honsin ci t;v0y„ , \ _ `r .; k tvrO' Ann, .,e .di j 0 t� , t(" 'N,, ,:., I ---0 t I 6 1 III -J r• ♦4 �, I I� \ i ••• +'! ,r r •-4.!. t 4`�1I 100 � D r 7��j�1� :�] f� • y � 6, s _, �, Q « � 1J y, ¢ ^^ ,'Q°e°!l send = Ii .i�' >r .ems. ,t, j' r in 1, I� ` 'city f • 1ti4^II jaTikt }u ,^x Mr.,tt�7�l City Commode• i IL c U,f N,' ' , City HalULIbrary/Seniore(:enter ,„ i� � � . .•• Pne HSI BC•J � Yy�t'�� r .. :t`:rte •r• 4 _-I 9�{ Commercial jta!" Qt�r_i�y - u :. ,.„.,1 ,11r4.1-_,. ..,,,,,t TJi.•-.'. 7-Toppi?;p� ,rF c?-E-� '�_ • r ..--•'J',* „. r `�. e,o,D, T 't.i'� i ; 83 i F8, t,.,".. rvi,,U1 . po-2--,,,,,..--.. ... ..,:t , . - I,Dc csi-.. 4,6:.:.- 1 Iola ��` � ' ti 1',, V ._ W Iy c t^ Street, -5---w,i --= Commerrctal a s� t""�^ ',1', j. �� f �'. u ^ ==" _ :n —Post Ottice S , n 1 ., i. ia:i,I ' (F--t 1 '-'3'.. � �\ , „yesaeA—Re.sb I ' Commerc a.a 1 s ilk t`tS4271 West Entry �Ht. e ,, .__..,> , , o-a ra a�pc- :.-.6 ',lis- — Marne '�''t ,40M', r' 't � .ld^-. € j�`, \ t 6 i co iF, , Entertain ment . F 9 Mfaad w - - C d ' _(includteghusY Fecli )fy` ePestisal Poods� \\ tity'j ( — J.Ls---,--------T. -.......47:::".'...------------"I I �. \ • ....wt „.:,,,,4., '*'`C. ,-. .., -••..., -1 .� _1 ✓J'' ' -,.„,__ ____________z___ Center Enlry '"'�� r I11:-'S'1��/('5--�7 _�Wdla Ildllowv 1.177):: \ Conceptual plan for the downtown incorporating lessons learned from the guiding pnnciples. ''' " ril I ti Post Office Entertainment The Basic Shapes of The Chanhassen post office has outgrown its current The dinner theater is the cornerstone of a proposed Downtown: quarters,and there is little potential for expansion on the entertainment center which will mix uses to include theaters, Design Concepts site.Because it serves a substantial portion of the restaurants,stores,recreational facilities,hotels and related community,it requires an accessible location.If located in uses.These offerings will be concentrated,allowing visitors •Form a compact center by creating downtown,the post office will serve to support,and be to park once in a common parking area and shop twice as a series of rooms throughout the ' supported by,retail,government and other downtown they move to the various destinations on foot.Its emphasis on downtown. activities. nighttime activities will extend the downtown's daytime •Complete pedestrian connections that lead to and through the vitality into the evening hours. downtown. Activity Center *Create a distinct downtown Focus groups frequently pointed to the need for a commu- Transit district through architectural forms oily gathering and activity place in.or near,downtown.A The railroad corridor has the potential to become a major hub and the shape of vegetation. center for recreation and related activities,located near the for all anticipated future transit services.The line could serve •Reinforce the sense of the street as western edge of downtown may answer this need.Not as a light rail route which would eventually connect the City a room by reflecting the setback of only would it create an anchor for the downtown,but an of Chanhassen with downtown Minneapolis.It could also existing buildings in new activity center at this location would complement the serve as the interchange for all local and regional transit development. limited recreation facilities being built at the new elemen- services,including park-and-ride lots,local circulator bus tary school.Facilities included in an activity center are service and pedestrian traffic.Therefore,a central location is _ CI _1 1, i LI still open for discussion because today's preferences may desirable—allowing users to park in a convenient downtown t---�-y -t- ''Z'''''''''..451" not meet community needs five years hence. location while shopping or doing business.Pedestrian 1— I L I (A';',"4 pathways,which connect the transit hub to other downtown Pocket Parks destinations,will be critical to the success of commercial, -Locate buildings close to the street, Situated at the junctions of pedestrian paths,all public retail and entertainment establishments designed to serve the with parking behind or beside the buildings and significant private developments are small needs of transit patrons. buildings. public rooms known as pocket parks.They provide a sired green respite from the street and an opportunity to recall Historic Area I a Ming the larger landscape and build on the environment of The city's most important historic buildings are located I --' Chanhassen.They may showcase sculpture or other adjacent to old St.Hubert's Church and the Village Hall.The I 1 artifacts that reflect the culture and heritage of the comu- Pony/Pauly/Pezymus buildings are currently owned by the I Parking L m --t nity.As informal gathering places,they serve as quiet Chanhassen Housing and Redevelopment Authority and are '`--') areas for meeting friends,having lunch or simply resting slated for demolition because they are structurally and •Create a strong relationship between destinations.Placed within a five-minute walk of functionally substandard.Following the removal of these between buildings,pedestrian one another,they set a rhythm of public spaces throughout buildings,there will be an opportunity for new development spaces and the street. the downtown. to frame the western edge of Heritage Square Park.New sum development in this historic area needs to be consistent in Pe&+truer \ design and scale with the buildings that already grace Heri- tage Square Park.Any redevelopment requires an historically as w ng sensitive design that can build on the community's culture and become part of the city's heritage. t , ' -Offer pedestrians safety and convenience by providing entries ' from both streets and parking areas. M Edry from Stud Building r'l V M Entry from ( , Peeking Ana. r �`� O 1i 1; + Y t, ' t„ r' ,�4�/. *Select building practices and /r i+ 4 } .� architectural elements to reinforce the r t'"` 4voll historic character of West 98lh Street. M ME aQ. •viiiW ' ni f - � 1:-ml- : J. ,S p St.Hubert's E �- 5 Q t -i\1 `{_ _ Commercial Church and School O �S \ �� IL, '-_ f 6)Irlrr) �� ��o Histork District X...!,,,,-* .,..471,..:,..i." i f �N�N`�`,, Multi-Family Housing,,.,e - East Entry �r-:;i.t. loo, „��; ,t'- y" �ixezz ^''°' mg*Theme„., c.----____11:-----:— .-- n) 6 g P ,?,' 11,--Alk-.4\ .:*_„. „n '.' .R'_ ..,,•O_br�_:. O `fin O- Jam'• N `-+? •. .fie+., Jt� v,- ;;Ir,-'4,O �u,f►Y wa 4 Q /\Bndge��,.� ' r.. rt 2 r�t l .0 °t' s '' !d ��'Ej,4 o❑ �i "41,,...r,.' r ) t„river,.., amerelal ` Syt"09c' 6 Focus on the Downtown The Vision - The vision for the Chanhassen downtown is for it to be the 'k I , , focus for commercial exchange,cultural expression,social \� i+i, interaction and community education;to enrich the lives 1141 .-'� `. , ' r r,, of residents while presenting an appealing and E I -� �l -4-is_., ,. recognizable image to the large and growing Upper ' ;`r _ $1 a ...; r: H� Midwest population it serves.It is a downtown which '. _ ..� ....%;;,40-64.—,-- Midwest incorporates and maintains elements of the past,such as gt. 4 " ` its historical and natural features,"small town" ` • l >� f . atmosphere and its entertainment focus,but is planned to 4:• A. '� '. �� !i;.:'''y _ - be adaptable to change—changes in technology,changes ,. ''t ,� ' in service deliveries,changes in retailing and r • 7(1 4s ,t, entertainment.It is a downtown designed for the future J" ; while satisfying the needs of today,one which maintains atiiiYwvi _' , strong sense of community focus and orientation,one which fosters convenience,one which maintains a pedestrian scale and emphasizes people movement while providing the full range of transit options.It is a �. t . downtown which encourages human interaction,one +`• •. , Principles for the City Commons which mixes uses(retail,cultural,entertainment,housing, .- ,.. i;.j City Center J 'Serve as the connection between education and recreation)to make prudent and efficient PaikS• J' • downtown and City Center Park. use of space,one which meets and is adaptable to • i• • ••7-71'. . : .', •Provide a main entry to address contemporary retailing standards and is financially �, • •r•. : •••` '' c•` West 78th Street. • r r .< n successful.It is a downtown which captures development iLt, l , , ;T l3: .. 9 ;fir. •Create a multiuse space for large opportunities but is sensitive to and draws meaning from .d t0.: N ; ,.fi r -- gatherings. >•.--' -- Existing .. _ •Extend the qualities and patterns the environment while recognizing the role that it is a �'.;�" y;i pryer i Building ,phase i t of the city commons landscape intended to serve within the larger community framework. o 2 , 2 i „• • • t I across surrounding streets to • r:: , � ,. i �•-'-••`E� xf; _ L—� adjacent sites. Funding1,- .( ll, ` r�•- c7 •Create a building to jointly With a few exceptions,public and/orprivate fundingis " ti accommodate expanded facilities p E 4i for the city hall,library and senior available to undertake the proposed changes to downtown io piiOsuo center. Chanhassen without an increase in properly taxes.Since ,;.. ',� •Create parking in several small —"'9= lots rather than a single large lot. the city council must first decide on project priorities, a g g however,it needs public input.A telephone survey in _ -,---.1...-"..."1...-'-'..r _. October of randomly selected residents will provide an • s:^:'I `'^*^'4:5,:i' • opportunity for the public to register its preferences. mart . A concept plan and principles for Chanhassen's city commons should address the practical.aesthetic and symbolic needs of the community. The Challenge Public acceptance of the concepts outlined in this The city faces a number of challenges in carrying out this Credits newsletter would result in the following: planning proposal: Vision 2002 Focus Group •Creation of a downtown focus for the entire *The plan is long-range,and its success depends on the Participants community; commitment of the citizens of Chanhassen to its goals. Vision 2002 Ad Hoc Committee •Use of the design concepts to shape the character and •Citizens will need to play a central role in the City Council appearance of future downtown development projects; implementation process in order to ensure continued Housing and Redevelopment •The continuation of efforts to locate and develop an public interest and support. Authority activity center west of downtown; *This concept-based plan requires periodic assessment and Planning Commission , *The continuation of efforts to develop senior housing reinterpretation.The city must provide regular public Seniors Commission close to downtown; forums for the discussion of the plan's principles to Design Center for American Urban *Creation of a city commons with a presence on West ensure that they result in a downtown which continues to Landscape 78th Street,which allows for the expansion of the enhance civic pride and unity. Landscape Research,Carole Zellie senior center,library and city hall facilities; Comments may be referred to *The creation of identity at the entries to downtown Todd Gerhardt,City of Chanhassen. which reflects the natural environment; 937-1900. *Balanced pedestrian and vehicular accessibility; •A downtown location for the expanded post office; *Preservation of elements which reflect Chanhassen's heritage. Prepared by This newsletter will be followed up with a telephone survey of randomly selected city residents to determine the degree of ©m public support for this concept plan.Please review this document in the event you are called.Whether or not you are sur- ®® veyed,please consider returning the attached comment card.Your insights will be most helpful to the city in carrying out publicly supported plans for downtown Chanhassen. Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. BULK MAIL City of Chanhassen us.Postage 690 Coulter Drive PAID P.O.Box 147 Chanhassen,MN Permit No.14 Chanhassen,MN 55317 rPostal Patron