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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 Comprehensive Plan *C;c:)MPf:;Zr-=HF-P4SlVF- PLAN / CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS 1998 • { Forward and Table of Contents COMMUNITY BACKGROUND AND HISTORY The City of Oak Park Heights is located in Washington County, Minnesota, on the banks of the lower St. Croix Scenic Riverway, which is a part of the state border between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Situated between the Cities of Stillwater and Bayport and 20 miles east of the Minneapolis -St. Paul Metropolitan Area, the City's population has doubled in the last 15 years to over 4,000. The City is surrounded by the City of Stillwater to the north, the City of Bayport to the southeast, Baytown Township to the south and Lake Elmo to the west. The area was first platted in the late 1800s. Oak Park Heights was incorporated as a village in 1938 and became a city by State Statute in 1972. The City has been designated as a freestanding urban growth area (for expansion of water and sewer) by the Metropolitan Council, the regional planning agency in the area. As a component of the St. Croix Valley, Oak Park Heights offers an attractive quality of life with excellent educational, recreational, health care, and cultural facilities. Oak Park Heights is a very diversified community, being home to a large commercial /retail area with many national businesses and local enterprises, including the St. Croix Mall, a Northern States Power Company plant, the Sunnyside Marina, and the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility. Housing in Oak Park Heights is both attractive and diverse and includes starter homes, bluff line river view homes, and riverfront condominiums, with the number of single family and multiple family units divided almost equally. The City currently has over 80 acres of designated park space comprised of four municipal park facilities. The parks consist of skating /hockey rinks and warming houses, softball /baseball fields, picnic shelters, tennis courts, and general playground equipment. The City has been awarded the "Tree City USA" award for the past 21 years. The City operates under a "Plan A, Council- Administrator" form of government, consisting of a Mayor and a four member Council. The Mayor and Council are elected at large on a non - partisan basis, the Mayor for a four -year term and the Council for four -year staggered terms. The Council is responsible for adopting policies affecting City affairs, approving the annual budget, enacting ordinances and resolutions, and providing policy direction for City departments and activities. The City Council currently serves as the Economic Development Authority. The City has a Planning Commission and a Parks Advisory Commission. 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I � TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Introduction................................................................... ............................... 1 Credits.......................................................................... ............................... 3 CommunityViews ......................................................... ............................... 7 PersonalInterviews ............................................ ............................... 7 CommunityAttitudes .......................................... ............................... 9 Regional Planning / Cooperation ....................... ............................... 10 Environment....................................................... ............................... 10 LandUse ............................................................ ............................... 10 Transportation.................................................... ............................... 15 Community Facilities .......................................... ............................... 16 Administration..................................................... ............................... 18 Planning Process ........................................................... ............................... 21 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS .. �. j -.. � ,,. Introduction f �; • I; � ; _�. �_ ;, a ; ' �6' I; INTRODUCTION The tremendous growth and development within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area is especially evident in the St. Croix River Valley communities that include Oak Park Heights. The appeal of Oak Park Heights has been its small town atmosphere, affordable housing prices, and its availability of developable land adjacent to Trunk Highway 36. The once small town is being transformed into a small City within a strong commercial base, impressive public facilities, and quiet attractive neighborhoods. Projections would suggest that this trend will continue. The annexation of significant land area and development of the Stillwater Area High School in 1991 has prompted interest by residential and commercial developers. Current projections indicate that the existing vacant areas within the City limits will be developed shortly after the year 2000. Development interests will likely encourage the City to expand its corporate boundaries to accommodate additional growth. As such, the City of Oak Park Heights faces critical issues of directing this growth so that it will have a positive result in the type of community that is desired. This objective cannot, however, happen without forethought and planning. The Oak Park Heights Mayor, City Council, Planning Commission and staff have recognized the need for a Comprehensive Plan Update. In the past, Oak Park Heights officials have relied on an outdated Comprehensive Plan, done in 1980, and amendments approved for areas annexed since that time. The point has been reached where the plans need to be completely updated to address the continuing development pressures and changes to the transportation network of the community. To insure that these matters are addressed and to include citizens, community leaders and development interests in the process, an update of the Comprehensive Plan has been authorized. To successfully achieve a Comprehensive Plan which is responsive and will be used in decision - making, it must be founded upon sound technical data. This information has been pursued and will be documented in the Comprehensive Plan Inventory. Just as critical are the objectives and concerns of the community. These matters set the directives which the plan is to achieve and the character of the community which is to be realized. As an initial means of shaping the Comprehensive Plan to accomplish the type and character of the community which is desired, a series of individual interviews with community leaders and residents were held. A wide cross - section of the area residents was chosen representing institutional directors, business owners, property owners, developers, City staff and elected and appointed City officials. It is felt that the representation of these people will provide the insight and initial direction for the process. The community involvement will continue throughout the comprehensive planning process with public hearings at the end of each stage. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 1 INTRODUCTION • This report provides a summary of the issues and directives which community officials and residents have identified. As such, it will be utilized in conjunction with the technical data complied in the Comprehensive Plan Inventory to formulate the policies as well as physical layout of the community. Throughout the interview process, it was realized that there is agreement on most of the issues but also differences in the philosophy and details of the approaches to be taken. An additional purpose of this report is therefore to highlight these matters so that they can be addressed as part of the planning process. The presentation of information in this report is provided in three sections. The first identifies the individuals participating in the individual interviews. The second section is titled Community Views. This section summarizes the comments and direction raised by the participants. The third section includes a diagram of the planning process and sets the direction for the focus of the Comprehensive Plan Update. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 2 F k Credits {� _._ �� � ; CREDITS The identification of community perspectives, on both positive and negative aspects of the City of Oak Park Heights, is a critical foundation for directing the Comprehensive Plan Update, as well as providing insight and direction for focusing community growth. While the professional planner can contribute to the evolution of the community, it is the community itself which must set goals and prioritize its needs and objectives. In this regard, the Oak Park Heights officials and community representatives have taken time to meet on an individual basis with representatives of Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. A joint meeting between the City Council and Baytown Township Board was held on 5 February 1996 to discuss the issues of growth and annexation. A meeting of the City Council, with a Mayor and Council members was held on 18 December 1996 to also discuss growth issues. Additionally, a goal setting /strategic planning session was held with Council members, community representatives and staff on 17 April 1998. These efforts have provided extremely valuable local insight into the community which is a critical function in the Comprehensive Plan Update. The individuals participating in this process are: Mayor and City Council - 1996 Barbara, O'Neal, Mayor Dean Kern, Council Member Janet Robert, Council Member Dave Schaaf, Council Member Mark Swenson, Council Member Mayor and City Council - 1997/1998 David Schaaf, Mayor David Beaudet, Council Member Janet Robert, Council Member Mark Swenson, Council Member Jerry Turnquist, Council Member Mayor and City Council - 1999 David Schaaf, Mayor David Beaudet, Council Member Lynae Byrne, Council Member Mark Swenson, Council Member Jerry Turnquist, Council Member OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 3 CREDITS Planning Commission - 199811999 Charles Hedlund, Chair Mike Dahlquist, Commission Member Kirk Schultz, Commission Member George Vogt, Commission Member Ann Wasescha, Commission Member Parks Commission - 1996 Mike Dahlquist, Chair Mark Johnson, Commission Member Paul Plaster, Commission Member Mike Runk, Commission Member Bill Tait, Commission Member Janet Robert, Council Representative Parks Commission - 1997 Mike Dahlquist, Chair Lynae Byrne, Commission Member Paul Plaster, Commission Member Mike Runk, Commission Member Liz Weaver, Commission Member Janet Robert, Council Representative Parks Commission - 1998 Lynae Byrne, Chair Daria Berger, Commission Member Kevin Furlong, Commission Member Margie Schwartzbauer, Commission Member Liz Weaver, Commission Member Community Representatives Brad Henning, St. Croix Mall Dan Parker, Independent School District #834 Erik Schon, Minnesota Department of Corrections Michael Thomas, NSP Don Wisniewski, NSP OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 4 CREDITS Developers /Property Owners Bob Brackey Rick Packer, Arcon Development Inc. Oak Park Heights Staff Thomas Melena, City Administrator (1998) Joe Anderlik, City Engineer, Bonestroo and Associates Roger Benson, Utilities Superintendent (Retired) Jim Butler, Building Official Kris Danielson, Community Development Director Judy Holst, Finance Director Jay Johnson, Public Works Director Mike Robertson, City Administrator (1996 -1997) Charlie Schwartz, Bayport Fire Chief Lindy Swanson, Police Chief Mark Vierling, City Attorney, Eckberg, Lammers, Briggs, Wolff & Vierling It has been through the input and assistance of the aforementioned individuals that this study and report were made possible. Their courtesy, cooperation and contribution is greatly valued and appreciated. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 5 CREDITS 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 6 Community Views -�: �. _.;: � ;, COMMUNITY VIEWS As a means to establish the direction of the Oak Park Heights Comprehensive Plan Update, City officials, residents and community representatives have undertaken a thorough assessment of issues and objectives. As noted in the Introduction section of this report, this evaluation was accomplished through individual and group interviews. This chapter summarizes the results of these efforts. PERSONAL INTERVIEWS So as to define the issues and objectives for the Comprehensive Plan Update, individual interviews and group meetings were conducted with community leaders and residents. A wide cross - section of people representing many facets of the community were chosen for their insight and perspectives. The focus of the discussions was on the existing, developing portions of the community and on the areas to the south in Baytown Township, which is the future growth area for Oak Park Heights. Those participating were asked to identify which community concerns were most important as well as what action or direction the City should be taking, especially as it relates to land use. To a significant degree, the interviews revealed that there is an overall consensus among City officials and community representatives on both issues as well as objectives. Simultaneously, there are, however, some uncertainties on the part of some individuals and some differences of opinion on approach and philosophy. This is not an unusual occurrence and in fact is seen as a positive in that it may help insure a more detailed consideration and discussion of the plan and its components. In this regard, it must be recognized that differences need to be resolved and that a consensus be reached on the course to be taken and the plan which is to be implemented. Before proceeding further with a discussion of issues and objectives, additional background explanation and qualification is required. In the paragraphs which follow, the comments which were made by community leaders have been generalized so as not to credit any one person with a particular statement or position. Whenever differences of opinion were encountered on a specific subject, it has been expressed as a majority or minority opinion. Note should also be made that the focus of the interviews and hence the discussion in this section of the Tactics report, is positive although negative comments were received. This negative theme and characterization of the community should not be interpreted as the prevailing opinion of the City. To the contrary, the community leadership and staff view Oak Park Heights as offering a unique and quality living environment. The objective in identifying Oak Park Heights' problems is to insure that these matters are properly addressed and resolved so that the benefits offered are maintained and increased. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 7 COMMUNITY VIEWS The identification of each and every issue raised as part of the interviews with community representatives is not attempted by this report. Such would be beyond the scope and purpose of this effort. The issues which are raised are a broad categorization of topics receiving attention. Identifying and dealing with this more basic framework of concerns will facilitate the organization of responses which, in the long run, will comprehensively address all concerns, including the sub - issues which have not been specifically cited. Also to be noted is that the following discussion is not a priority listing of objectives or issues. In the Tactics section, only a comprehensive statement of topics raised by community leaders is attempted. Finally, it needs to be stated that the summary of individual interviews avoids opinions and positions of the planner. Within the Policy Plan and Development Framework sections, planning recommendations and alternatives will be offered for consideration. In order to provide a meaningful presentation of the interview discussions, the topics which were raised have been organized into a listing of broad issues and subsequently divided into sub - topics. The outline of the issues summary which follows: Community Attitude Regional Planning / Cooperation Environment Land Use Developable Land - Existing City Planning Study Area / Annexation Residential Development Single Family Multiple Family Affordable / Life Cycle Housing Commercial Development Existing Commercial Central Business District Highway Commercial Industrial Development Transportation St. Croix River Crossing / Highway 36 System Improvements / Issues Community Facilities City Facilities Utilities Police / Fire OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 8 COMMUNITY VIEWS Schools Parks/Trails Administration Financial Staff Regulations / Design Guidelines COMMUNITY ATTITUDE An overriding theme that was expressed by the residents of Oak Park Heights during this issue gathering process was their positive attitude about the community and the long term prospects for continued growth and improvement of the City. Residents cited the quality of life in the St. Croix River Valley, the existing and expanding commercial opportunities, established and comfortable neighborhoods, and the excellent school system that contribute to making Oak Park Heights an attractive place to live. Those interviewed thought that Oak Park Heights must continue to grow and expand its boundaries, though concerns were expressed that the growth must be well planned and controlled so as not to place a significant burden on the community and its residents. Business owners indicated that Oak Park Heights provides a very positive environment for continued commercial growth and there is a large potential for business park/light industrial growth in the St. Croix Valley. Overall, those interviewed felt that the level of services, including streets, utilities, police, fire and other facilities were of higher quality and among the best of any community in the area. There were few negative comments made by residents and most dealt with issues related to the St. Croix River Crossing and its potential long term impact on the community. City officials were concerned about the Allen S. King Plant and assuring that the City continued to receive a fair share of the tax revenue to offset the impact on the community. Some residents were concerned that the high level of growth occurring in Oak Park Heights and the surrounding region would be detrimental to the small town quality of life in the St. Croix River Valley. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 9 COMMUNITY VIEWS REGIONAL PLANNING / COOPERATION Oak Park Heights functions as one of the primary communities along with Stillwater and Bayport in this freestanding growth center on the east edge of the Minneapolis /St. Paul Metropolitan Area. The City has cooperated with its neighboring governmental entities in studying the provision of services. Cooperative studies, which have included Bayport and Baytown Township, have been conducted in recent years to determine if jurisdictions should be consolidated or if additional governmental facilities and service provision should be shared by communities. Although the cooperative studies have not resulted in a consolidation, discussions continue among jurisdictions to explore means in which to share functions and services to improve quality at a lesser cost to the taxpayer. Due to disagreements over annexation, the working relationship between Oak Park Heights and Baytown Township is not favorable. Residents and City officials felt that efforts should be made to improve the relationship and continue to work on issues related to annexation and cooperation on issues that affect these two communities. ENVIRONMENT The City of Oak Park Heights is situated in an area of varying topography and environmental factors influenced by its proximity to the St. Croix River. While the older areas of the community developed on the bluffs adjacent to the river, recent development is focused on the broad, flat plains moving westerly from the main channel. Areas within these plains are highlighted by steep topography and wetlands. Staff and residents agree that an important factor influencing future land use and subdivision design will be topography, well head location, and storm water facility design. Although the wetlands and other natural features will influence land use and transportation systems, residents thought that they would be used as community amenities of providing open space and possible locations for green ways and paths. LAND USE Developable Land - Existing City The 1980 Comprehensive Plan and its subsequent amendments have effectively planned the land use for parcels within the existing City limits. The primary areas of focus for development in recent years has been the residential development east of Osgood Avenue on 58th Street and the area annexed with the Stillwater Area High School, east of State Highway 5. The push for continuing residential and commercial development will continue OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 10 COMMUNITY VIEWS to occur in that area between Oakgreen Avenue and Kern Center which is the only segment of the community with significant vacant land parcels remaining in the City. Based upon current growth patterns, it is expected that the vacant land supply could be depleted, for residential, commercial and light industrial /business uses shortly after the year 2000. Residents and City officials have supported the growth of the community and welcome the new businesses, services and jobs that accompany this development. Residents are increasingly concerned about the level of quality of the new development and want to assure that the transitions between neighborhoods and commercial areas are carefully planned to reduce adverse impacts. The City has been challenged to look at zoning transitions, design guidelines, traffic and providing adequate screening through landscaping and fences as well as providing protection against glare, odor and noise. Planning Study Area / Annexation In recognition of the need for additional developable land, the City officials have identified potential future growth areas, within Baytown Township and the City of Lake Elmo. The Township and Lake Elmo have in the past and currently are not favorable to allowing the City to expand its borders, even if a majority of the property owners in an area request the annexation. An area of approximately 113 acres was annexed to Oak Park Heights from Baytown Township by the Minnesota Municipal Board. The area, south of Highway 36, east of Manning Avenue and west of State Highway 5 adds a developing light business park and highway commercial to the City. Those interviewed felt it was appropriate for the City to annex this parcel and areas to the south in Lake Elmo in that its development related well to what is currently occurring in Oak Park Heights and the additional land is necessary for the City's growth. Residents and City officials also commented on the need for Oak Park Heights to grow south, especially in that area adjacent to the Oak Park Heights Correctional Facility, including the Department of Natural Resources property. At the time of development of the correctional facility, the City planned for significant growth to the south and sanitary sewer facilities were installed accordingly. Some of these same areas have also been identified in Bayport's Comprehensive Plan for future annexation. City officials will work with their counterparts in Bayport to provide an appropriate transition between the two cities. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 11 COMMUNITY VIEWS Residential Development Sinale Familv Residents of Oak Park Heights take pride in their neighborhoods and City officials make the point that there is a great deal of diversity in housing styles, ages and price ranges. A majority of the housing was built in the 1970s and 1980s, most of which is of a medium range value and affordable to a larger number of homebuyers. At the end of the 1998 building season, less than 10 fully sewered, subdivided lots were available for single family development, all of which were in Autumn Ridge, a housing development with home values between $200,000 and $300,000. The remaining undeveloped land for residential use is controlled by the Valley Senior Services Alliance (VSSA). Concept plans for the project identify 590 units of senior housing for varying levels of ability and care. Developers are concerned that the lack of single family lots drives potential homebuyers to other cities in the region where lots are available. The demand for single family lots is extremely strong in the St. Croix Valley in general and is expected to remain as long as factors such as the strong economy and low interest rates remain. Oak Park Heights officials want to see Oak Park Heights grow and provide single family opportunities for new families and facilitate the move up from existing neighborhoods in the City. City officials • indicate that working with existing land owners to provide additional sewered lots and plan for annexation of additional land for development is a high priority. Multir)le Familv Oak Park Heights residents recognize the need for a diversity of housing styles and types of which multiple family plays an important part. Residents, as well as law enforcement officials, suggested that multiple family uses be spaced throughout the community as opposed to large concentrations of one type of residential use or another. Law enforcement was especially concerned about concentrating all of the same type of housing in large areas and stressed the need to integrate low, medium and high density units throughout the community. Developers are concerned that at the end of 1998, less than five lots available for townhomes and only one lot available for multiple family in Oak Park Heights. Including vacant land planned for multiple family use, there is less than six acres available in the community for further multiple family and townhome development. City officials have identified this issue and will address it as part of land use planning in the existing City and for future annexation areas. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 12 COMMUNITY VIEWS Affordable / Life Cvcle Housina For years, the community has prided itself on providing affordable housing for people of all age groups and socio economic levels. City officials are interested in preserving the levels of affordable housing while expanding the numbers of housing units in the higher price values. By providing housing of all types and price ranges, the City can remain an attractive place for people as they proceed through their life cycle. Information from the Metropolitan Council in 1996 indicated that 90 percent of the owner occupied and 55 percent of the rental housing was affordable according to regional benchmarks. The City adopted a Livable Communities Action Plan in 1996 that indicated that the City was not going to actively promote the addition of large numbers of affordable owner occupied or rental units, but proceed on a case -by -case basis as projects were presented. The City officials were more interested in the continued development of mid to higher value homes and living units to provide more opportunity for people of all income ranges to move or continue to reside in the community. Opportunities to provide elderly housing was also an important issue for City officials and residents in that a significant need for independent living or assisted living units has been identified for the St. Croix Valley area in general. Commercial Development Those interviewed discussed the need to preserve and enhance the existing commercial uses in the community while planning for the orderly development of new commercial areas along Highway 36, west of Oakgreen Avenue. Existina Commercial In terms of existing commercial areas, the prime area the City must concentrate is the St. Croix Mall and along Osgood Avenue. Most agreed that the City should examine opportunities to enhance the St. Croix Mall area and make it more visible from Highway 36. Others discussed the need to possibly redefine the uses of the St. Croix Mall to emphasize less its role as a retail center to more offices, or a recreational and entertainment focus. The intersection of Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue is also seen as an area that should be redeveloped to take advantage of the viability and accessibility for retail and service uses. The City is currently working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation on plans for a major design of the frontage road system at this intersection that would further enhance access and address long term traffic design issues. City officials also indicated that there is a significant need for office space in the Oak Park Heights and Stillwater area. One of the areas discussed for the development of office OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 13 COMMUNITY VIEWS • space is portions of the St. Croix Mall or the areas surrounding the mall. If redevelopment creates significant demand for additional parking, the suggestion was made that the St. Croix Mall parking lots could be potentially ramped. Central Business District City officials are developing plans for a town center concept in that area west of Oakgreen Avenue and south of Highway 36. A commitment to this concept has been made in that the City has added a Central Business District to its zoning classifications and has rezoned that area south of Highway 36, west of Oakgreen Avenue, east of Norell Avenue, and north of 58th Street to that district. With potential redevelopment and possibly a redefinition of uses surrounding the St. Croix Mall, the City is looking to concentrate new retail, service and entertainment uses in the CBD area. The preliminary layout of the area emphasizes a downtown feel with good traffic access and pedestrian scale. The City is also considering the possibility of allowing residential development, both mixed with commercial structures and as a freestanding use. Hiahwav Commercial Residents and officials have been actively involved in the approval processes for the continued development of the commercial areas along Highway 36. The City is interested 0 in a high level of quality in this new development area while residents of surrounding neighborhoods are interested in reasonable transition of land uses and compatibility with their residential areas. City officials are working on defining certain commercial zoning districts to provide better land use transitions, and design guidelines are to be adopted to better control development so that it provides a closer fit to the image preferred for Oak Park Heights. Most officials and residents of the community see the area along Highway 36 as the primary commercial areas of the community and with potential annexation, see areas to the south more in terms of residential and industrial land uses. Business /Industrial Development Other than the Allen S. King Plant and a small surrounding area, the City of Oak Park Heights, for most of its status as a City, did not have a large industrial land use base or emphasize development of additional business parks and industrial areas. Community leaders and City staff recognize the need to diversify its land use as well as tax base and are now supportive of planning for additional business parks and industrial areas. Annexation of the Kern Center, a partially developed office and business park west of Highway 5, has enabled the City to add to its business and industrial base. City officials recognize that the Kern Center, now that it will be served with municipal water and sewer OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 14 COMMUNITY VIEWS service, will not provide a supply of land for business and industrial land use much past the year 2000. With potential annexation of areas to the south into Baytown Township, the City will plan for additional business and industrial land for development. The City also recognizes a mixed land use area on Stagecoach Trail, which is positioned between the two state prisons as an area suited for redevelopment to commercial and light industrial uses. The City staff will work with property owners and adjacent neighborhoods to provide a reasonable transition of land use from residential to business and light industrial. TRANSPORTATION St. Croix River Crossing / Highway 36 As of early 1999, the status of the St. Croix River Bridge and the construction of Highway 36 improvements was more definite as a result of recommendations of the St. Croix River Advisory Group and their consultant Richard Braun. The preferred location of the bridge crossing is south of the existing Stillwater lift bridge but north of the bridge crossing location agreed to by the Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Transportation. A final decision that is endorsed by the local jurisdictions, environmental groups, National Park Service, and the two Departments of Transportation is expected in 1999. The proposed bridge is not located in Oak Park Heights as previously had been planned, but will be sited in Stillwater. The area cleared of homes by MnDOT would likely be used for the intersection improvements of Highway 36 and 95. The intersection of Highway 36 and Osgood could become grade separated as part of the current MnDOT plans. City officials will continue to work closely with MnDOT on timelines for the bridge construction and Highway 36 intersection improvements. System Improvements / Issues The City of Oak Park Heights is well served with transportation routes providing access to the region including Highway 36, Highway 5, and Highway 95. Discussions with City staff/ consultants stress the need to closely work with representatives of Washington County and MnDOT on issues related to new roadway construction, reconstruction, roadway turn backs and maintenance responsibility issues. Of particular importance to the City is the increasing levels of traffic on Highway 36 and the related impacts of highways on Oak Park Heights such as noise, air quality, and intersection congestion. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 15 COMMUNITY VIEWS City residents and officials stress the need for the County to improve Osgood Avenue and take over jurisdiction of Oakgreen Avenue to provide for the reconstruction and widening of this roadway. The City is working with the County in emphasizing these projects as part of their transportation department's Capital Improvement Program. Additionally, the City will proceed with the extension of 58th Street from Norell to Oakgreen in that City officials recognize that the roadway is necessary for projected development in the area. The Oakgreen Avenue improvements are especially important with the construction of 58th Street in that this section of roadway provides the necessary linkage to Highway 36. The further extension of 58th Street east to connect with 57th Street, near the City Hall facility, is also seen as a priority to provide through access for public safety vehicles and neighborhood convenience. COMMUNITY FACILITIES City Facilities Residents and City officials in Oak Park Heights are very satisfied with the City Hall, Public Works and Police facility at 14168 57th Street North. Investments made in this building during the Summer of 1998 have made the facility more efficient, has provided more office space, and created a better working environment for City employees. City officials indicated that this complex will now adequately serve a growing community. The City has considered in the past the addition of a fire substation. City officials had mixed feelings on the need and timing of such a facility and it is considered a long term issue dependent upon the ultimate growth of the City. The possible consolidation of facilities, such as public works facilities and staffing has been considered by the City and other surrounding jurisdictions, especially the City of Bayport. City officials are supportive of a continuing dialogue with Bayport, Stillwater and Lake Elmo in finding ways of more efficiently providing facilities and services for their constituents. Utilities City staff and consultants have commented on the need for an additional well in the next three to five years. A Water System Plan, completed by the City's Engineer, indicated that the well is required to provide additional pumping capacity for the City as well as providing a back up if one of the other well fails or is in need of repairs. The City is currently beginning the process of researching possible areas for another well site. According to the City Engineer, there are few issues with the existing sanitary sewer system and its four OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 16 COMMUNITY VIEWS lift stations. The City anticipated and planned for the expansion of the City boundaries to the west, including the recent addition of the Kern Center. Additionally, City staff pointed out that the City has planned for expansion to the south, into Baytown Township, with the establishment of sewer mains sized to accommodate significant new growth in this area. An analysis of storm water issues and a plan will also be necessary as the City plans for growth to the south of its existing boundaries. Police / Fire City staff felt that both the police and fire departments with current staffing and equipment was adequate to meet the City's immediate needs. Future growth to the south will create the need for additional police staff and equipment. The need for a fire substation has also been raised, but the best location is an issue that has not been resolved. The City of Bayport Fire Department, which contracts to the City of Oak Park Heights for service, can adequately serve the existing City, including the developing areas on the west end. A question has been raised if an additional facility would be necessary as both Cities grow, especially past their current southerly boundaries. City officials have indicated that ongoing dialogue with their counterparts in Bayport and possibly Stillwater is necessary on the fire substation issue. Schools Residents and school representatives indicated the importance of planning school facilities to accommodate growth of the community. With construction of the Stillwater Area High School and another elementary school in Stillwater, School District 834 representatives feel that adequate facilities are in place for the near future. As growth continues in Oak Park Heights and in the district overall, the school population will need to be closely monitored and projections updated and reviewed often to track the school age population. Parks and Trails Overall, the comments regarding the current park system were very favorable. A majority of those people interviewed thought that the current park system was adequate and were supportive of the City's current Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan and the recent efforts to implement that plan. With anticipated start of the VSSA project in 1999, the park planned on that westerly side of the City will be constructed at the same time. As such, the City will complete its overall park system for the existing City. Numerous ideas were given by residents and City efforts regarding the park system. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 17 COMMUNITY VIEWS • These include: 1. Utilization of the NSP landfill site south of Highway 36 has been suggested for an amphitheater site, formal gardens, and as an area for development of soccer, baseball and softball fields. 2. Continuation of the DNR property along Osgood Avenue, south of the current City limits for a combination of park land and open space. 3. Utilize the area purchased as part of the St. Croix Bridge crossing project in Oak Park Heights as long term park land or open space. Those interviewed were supportive of the City's recent efforts in constructing trails in accordance with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan. Most felt that the completion of the system was a high priority for the City. Connections to future areas of the City and the NSP site, Valley View Park, and potential parks or open space in the DNR property was of particular importance to City officials and residents. ADMINISTRATION Financial City officials were extremely positive of the financial condition of the City of Oak Park Heights and do not foresee any major issues ahead. Some expressed caution related to the costs of future development, especially related to significant roadway, utility and storm water system extensions and the potential costs versus revenues of serving single family neighborhoods. City staff feels that the City should continue its strict policies related to transferring most of the costs of new development to the developers of property. Staff After slight changes and additions to the employee roster for the City of Oak Park Heights, the level of administrative staffing is adequate. The City has emphasized utilizing consultants for legal, engineering, planning, forestry, and financial assistance. City officials have indicated that this type of staffing is cost efficient and appropriate for a City the size of Oak Park Heights. Officials indicated that staffing will need to increase as the City correspondingly increases in land area and population. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 18 COMMUNITY VIEWS Regulations / Design Guidelines The City of Oak Park Heights has been actively updating its Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations to address the development pressures, especially commercial, on the undeveloped areas of the City. Few changes are anticipated to the Zoning Ordinance or Subdivision Regulations so that it will comply with the finished Comprehensive Plan. A priority for 1998, set by residents and City officials, was the completion of design guidelines for commercial and industrial development. Recent commercial development applications have pressured the City to re- examine what the "image" or "look" of the commercial areas should be and the quality of development that will be allowed. The regulations were completed in 1998. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 19 COMMUNITY VIEWS s s OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 20 r �� � � •1 ■ ■ ■• � ■�• 111 ■ ■■ JII1111■ � � , �� \1■ ■Ili i � � • 11 ■1 ■Ili II ■11111■ ,� � _ � ��1 �� � •� � II ■II ■11 ■ ■Ilr. j �� � ` ' � �'�. � I ■/1111■ I ■111. �, -■ � � uunm uu■■ • �nml- -. 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Complementing the "Tactics" stage of the process will be the technical inventory of the community. These two sections will provide decision - makers with a basis from which problems and issues can be identified, objectives discussed and corrective actions implemented. A diagram that indicates the entire planning process for this Comprehensive Plan is found on the next Page. It should be noted that the Tactics study is only an initial forum for community input into the planning process. As draft material is prepared, meetings will be held with the Planning Commission, which will be the primary group to hold public hearings and discussion on the plan. The Mayor, City Council, Township officials, staff, general citizenry and business interests will also be provided ample opportunity for review and discussion. While such involvement will be demanding, it is essential for completion of a Comprehensive Plan Update which is truly reflective of Oak Park Height's goals and objectives. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 21 PLANNING PROCESS s OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TACTICS 22 L � COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROCESS M VISIONING / PLANNING TACTICS PL. :ANNIN`G INVENTORY Social Physical - Economic - Financial Profile POLICY PLAN Inventory Issues Goals & Analysis Summary Policies PROGRAMS - PLANS PROJECTS T 23 ti p: � y, __ COMPREHENSIVE PLAN • t CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS 4° Planning Tactics Inventory Policy Plan Development Framework Implementation 1998 NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED CONSULTANTS INC. • • TABLE OF CONTENTS Paae Introduction................................................................... ............................... 1 SocialProfile ................................................................. ............................... 3 Physical Profile Natural Environment .......................................... ............................... 17 LandUse ............................................................ ............................... 35 Transportation.................................................... ............................... 61 CommunityFacilities .......................................... ............................... 79 EconomicProfile ........................................................... ............................... 93 LIST OF TABLES PopulationGrowth ......................................................... ............................... 6 HouseholdGrowth ......................................................... ............................... 7 1990 Household Types .................................................. ............................... 8 1990 Median Age ........................................................... ............................... 9 1990 Population According to Age Group ...................... ............................... 10 1990 Education Levels ................................................... ............................... 11 1990 Occupations .......................................................... ............................... 12 TravelTime to Work ....................................................... ............................... 14 1990 Median Family Income .......................................... ............................... 15 1990 Per Capita Income ................................................. ............................... 15 1990 Low Income Population .......................................... ............................... 16 1998 Total Land Use Breakdown ................................... ............................... 41 1998 Developed Land Use Breakdown .......................... ............................... 42 1998 Undeveloped Land Use Breakdown ...................... ............................... 42 1990 Housing Units by Year Structure Built .................... ............................... 49 1990 Housing Units by Type of Unit ............................... ............................... 50 1990 Median Value of Owner Occupied Housing Units ... ............................... 51 1998 Zoning District Breakdown ...................................... ............................... 52 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY I TABLE OF CONTENTS List of Tables - Continued Page Summary of Zoning District Classification and Requirements ........................ 59 School District Enrollment ................................................ ............................... 82 Building Permit Summary ................................................. ............................... 95 Population, Household & Employment Trends and Projections ...................... 96 Population Projections by Metropolitan Council and City Engineer ................ 97 Land Demand in Acres (Slow Growth) ............................. ............................... 98 Land Necessary for Slow Growth Development .............. ............................... 98 Land Demand in Acres (Strong Growth) .......................... ............................... 98 Land Necessary for Strong Growth Development ............ ............................... 99 LIST OF MAPS Area Steep Slopes ....................................................... ............................... 21 Soils for Urban Development ........................................... ............................... 23 ProtectedWaters ............................................................. ............................... 27 Vegetation........................................................................ ............................... 29 Floodplain........................................................................ ............................... 31 ExistingLand Use ............................................................ ............................... 39 PhysicalBarriers .............................................................. ............................... 47 ExistingZoning ................................................................ ............................... 55ai� Functional Classification System ...................................... ............................... 65 RoadwayJurisdiction ....................................................... ............................... 67 TrafficVolumes ................................................................. ............................... 69 Street Reconstruction Areas ............................................. ............................... 73 AreaBus Routes ............................................................... ............................... 77 Community Facilities ......................................................... ............................... 85 RecreationalTrail Plan ...................................................... ............................... 87 ExistingWater System ...................................................... ............................... 89 Existing Sewer System ...................................................... ............................... 91 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY i __ • d � y Introduction I ,.. : INTRODUCTION The City of Oak Park Heights has recognized a need to update its current Comprehensive Plan as a means of addressing and accommodating the community's future growth and development. The purpose of the Oak Park Heights Inventory is to identify the type, amount, and pattern of growth that has taken place within the City. To this end, a thorough inventory of existing conditions has been conducted. This Inventory encompasses four general categories of information: Social Profile, Physical Profile (including natural environment, existing land use, transportation and community facilities), and Economic Profile. The sources of this data have been gathered from a wide range of agencies, printed documents, and interviews. All of the maps and tables have been provided with a source. Additional information regarding the source of any of the Inventory data can be obtained by contacting the City. Together, these categories that make up the Oak Park Heights Inventory provide an informational base which will be used to identify issues and set up a hierarchy of planning policies. These policies will help the community address a broad base of land use and development issues. With the help of a solid information and policy base, decision - makers can evaluate and guide proposals in the short term to benefit the residents of Oak Park Heights and the surrounding area, while fulfilling the City's long term goals and objectives. • M OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 1 • • • Social Profile I Id SOCIAL PROFILE SUMMARY ■ Oak Park Heights has experienced its most rapid population growth from 1960- 1980 as it grew from 332 persons in 1960 to 2,591 in 1980. This growth is typically higher than growth rates experienced in surrounding communities during the same period. ■ The percentage growth rate in Oak Park Heights has slowed since 1980. This trend is reflective of the limited amount of land available for residential development. ■ The average household size in Oak Park Heights has decreased since 1970. This trend reflects a combination of younger married couples waiting longer to have children and having fewer children. This trend also reflects a growing number of two person households, where the children have grown and left home. ■ As part of the consideration of the St. Croix Bridge, 78 dwelling units within the bridge improvement area have been or will be removed or relocated. A large number of these homes were of a lower value that could not be relocated within Oak Park Heights. ■ The population of Oak Park Heights is aging. Oak Park Heights' median age is among the highest in the region. The labor force age group (age 19 -64) is by far the largest representing 60 percent of the population, followed by the school age group (age 0 -19) which represents approximately 26 percent of the total population. ■ Education levels among Oak Park Heights' population are slightly lower than the County. However, the vast majority of Oak Park Heights residents (86.2 percent) have attained a high school diploma while 16.7 percent have obtained a college bachelors degree or higher. ■ Oak Park Heights' labor force is fairly evenly divided between four occupational categories. The most common occupation (35 percent) is technical, sales and administrative support. ■ Almost 40 percent of Oak Park Heights' labor force travels less than 10 minutes to work, indicating a large segment of the population is employed within Oak Park Heights /Stillwater /Bayport area. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 3 I SOCIAL PROFILE ■ The median income in Oak Park Heights is below the median family income for communities in the area. Oak Park Heights' per capita income is among the lowest of these same communities. These income levels are likely reflective of the number of either young families or retirement age persons living in Oak Park Heights. ■ The percentages of people living in Oak Park Heights for which low income status has been determined is higher than surrounding communities and Washington County as a whole. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 4 i SOCIAL PROFILE POPULATION GROWTH The statistics depicted in the following table illustrate the trends in population growth within Oak Park Heights, surrounding communities and Washington County. Each of the communities, with the exception of Bayport, have demonstrated an increase in population since 1960. The growth experienced by these communities can be attributed to a number of factors including, but not limited to, the following: ■ Expanding regional growth of the Twin Cities Metropolitan area has resulted in increases in population growth in Oak Park Heights, surrounding communities and Washington County. ■ The close proximity of Oak Park Heights to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area allows individuals to live in Oak Park Heights and surrounding communities, while maintaining convenient access to metropolitan employment and social activities. ■ Oak Park Heights and surrounding communities benefit from the availability of both Metropolitan Council Transit Operations and St. Croix Valley Transit bus service. These services provide major connecting routes within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Population growth in Oak Park Heights was rapid during the 1960s and 1970s, increasing 272.9 percent from 1960 to 1970 and 109.3 percent from 1970 to 1980. However, during the 1980s, the population of Oak Park Heights slowed to just 34.5 percent from 1980 to 1990. During the first six years of the 1990s, growth has again increased to an annual rate of 48 persons per year. Oak Park Heights' 1995 population was estimated to be 3,776 individuals. This estimate is reflective of the residential development experienced during the 1980s which has continued into the early 1990s. Adjacent communities and Washington County as a whole have and continue to experience population expansion through the 1990s, however, some cities such as Woodbury and Oakdale have seen very rapid population increases, and are continuing to grow. The development of the Valley Senior Services Alliance (VSSA) project will also impact the population growth in 1999 and for the next few years following. Representatives of VSSA predict an overall population in the development of approximately 700 to 800 persons. Most of the residents will be over 55 years of age. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 5 SOCIAL PROFILE • Population Growth 1960 - 1995 Oak Park Stillwater Bayport Washington Lake Woodbury Oakdale White Heights County Elmo Bear Lake 1960 332 8310 3205 52432 550 3014 4297 12849 1970 1238 10191 I 2987 I 82948 3542 + 6184 7818 23313 1980 I 2591 I 12290 I 2932 I 113571 I 5296 I 10297 12123 I 24400 1990 I 3486 I 13882 I 3200 I 145896 I 5903 I 20075 I 18374 I 24704 1995 I 3776 I 15649 I 3181 I 175441 I 6148 31258 I 23935 I 25804 Average Annual Population Growth Time Oak Park Stillwater Bayport Washington Lake Woodbury Oakdale White Frame Heights County Elmo Bear Lake 1960 -1970 90.6 188.1 21.8 3051.6 299.2 317.0 352.0 1046.4 1970 -1980 I 135.3 209.9 I -5.5 3062.3 175.0 411.3 430.0 108.7 1980 -1990 I 89.5 I 159.2 I 26.8 I 3232.5 57.5 I 948.9 620.0 I 30.4 1990 -1995 I 58.0 I 353.4 I -3.8 I 5909.0 42.2 I 2236.6 1092.2 I 110.0 Percentage Growth Time Oak Park Stillwater Bayport Washington Lake Woodbury Oakdale White Frame Heights County Elmo Bear Lake 1960 -1970 272.9 22.6 -6.8 58.2 544.0 105.1 81.9 81.4 1970 -1980 109.3 20.6 -1.8 36.9 49.5 66.5 I 55.0 4.7 1980 -1990 34.5 12.9 9.1 28.5 10.9 92.2 I 51.0 1.2 Effective (compounded) Growth Rates Time Oak Park Stillwater Bayport Washington Lake Woodbury Oakdale White Frame Heights County Elmo Bear Lake 1960 -1970 14.06 2.06 -0.83 4.69 20.47 7.45 6.16 6.13 1970 -1980 7.66 1.89 + -0.19 3.19 4.10 5.23 4.48 0.45 1980 -1990 3.01 I 1.22 I 0.87 2.53 1.09 6.90 4.24 0.12 1990 -1995 1.34 I 2.01 I -.10 3.12 .68 7.65 4.43 0.87 Source: U.S. Census, 1960, 1970, 1980 & 1990; Metropolitan Council; Minnesota State Planning - Demographers Office; Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 6 L SOCIAL PROFILE HOUSEHOLD GROWTH Household growth in Oak Park Heights is illustrated in the table below. The number of households in Oak Park Heights increased dramatically during the 1970s by almost 156 percent. The 1990 average household size in Oak Park Heights was 2.63 in 1990, down from the 1980 number of 2.71. The Metropolitan Council projections suggest that these trends are continuing. The lower household size is reflective of a combination of young married couples who are waiting longer to have children and have fewer children and also an increasing number of parents whose children have grown and left home. Household Growth 1970 -1990 Population Households Household size 1970 1238 372 3.33 1980 2591 955 2.71 1990 3486 1322 2.63 1997 4,069 1,568 2.59 Source: U.S. Census 1970, 1980 & 1990 Metropolitan Council The 1990 Census provides a demographic profile of the households in Oak Park Heights, illustrated in the table on the following page. As the following table indicates, of the 1,322 households in 1990, 870 or 65.2 percent were families, comprised mostly of married couples. Approximately 35 percent of the total households consist of families with children. The Census data indicated that in 1990, 34.8 percent of all households were non - family households. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 7 SOCIAL PROFILE 1990 Household Types I Total # Percent HH w/ Percent Families Percent I of HH Total HH Children Total HH w/o Child Total HH I Family- 684 51.3 338 25.3 346 25.9 Married Couple I I Family- Male 35 2.6 15 1.1 20 1.5 Householder I I Family- Female I 151 I 11.3 112 8.3 39 2.9 Householder Total Families I 870 I 65.2 465 34.9 I 405 I 30.4 Non - Family I 464 I 34.8 Households __ I I TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS I 1,322 I I I Source: U.S. Census, 1990 HOUSING REMOVAL As part of the consideration of the construction of the St. Croix Bridge, 78 dwelling units within the bridge improvement area have been or will be removed or relocated. Based upon an average household size of 2.60, a total of 202 persons will be relocated. A large number of these homes are of a lower value than average for Oak Park Heights and the region but provide much needed housing for elderly and lower income people. In 1990, housing units in Oak Park Heights had an owner specified median market value of $86,700. The average market value of housing units to be removed by the bridge project is $56,000. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 8 SOCIAL PROFILE AGE CHARACTERISTICS The 1990 Census provides age characteristic information regarding Oak Park Heights residents. This information is detailed in the table below and on the following page. The table below illustrates the median age of Oak Park Heights' residents and surrounding communities. The median age in Oak Park Heights is among the highest in the area. 1990 Median Age Oak Park Heights 33.3 Stillwater 33.2 Baytown Township 34.1 Bayport 35.2 Lake Elmo 32.8 Woodbury 31.7 Oakdale 29. White Bear Lake 31.6 Washington County 31.5 Source: U.S. Census, 1990 The table on the next page separates Oak Park Heights' population by age group. The labor force age group (ages 20 to 64) represents the City's largest age group accounting for 60.4 percent of the population. The next largest age group is the school age group (ages zero to 17) representing 26.3 percent of the population. The retired age group (ages 64 and over) accounts for the final 13.3 percent of the City's population. The labor force age is consistent with the Washington County population age group characteristics which show 60.7 percent of the population within the labor force age group. Oak Park Heights has a higher percentage of its population within the retirement age group as 13.3 are over 65, while just 6.5 percent of the County population is within the retirement age group. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 9 SOCIAL PROFILE I 1990 Population According to Age Group Age Group I Oak Park Percent Washington Percent Heights I County I School Age 0-4 I 210 6.0% 12,174 I 8.3% 5 -9 206 5.9% 13,121 9.0% 10 -14 I 242 7.0% 12,211 8.4% 15 -19 I 256 7.4% 10,409 I 7.1% Sub -Total I 914 26.3% 47,915 I 32.8% Labor Force I 20 -24 I 243 7.0% I 8,085 5.5% 25 -34 697 20.1% 27,053 18.5% 35-44 I 480 13.8% 26,273 18.0% 45 -54 I 420 I 12.1% 17,313 11.9% I 55 -64 I 253 I 7.3% I 9,777 6.7% Sub -Total I 2,093 I 60.4% I 88,501 60.7% Retired 65+ I 461 13.3% 9,480 6.5% TOTAL I 3,486 100.0% 145,896 100.0% Source U.S. Census, 1990 The predominance of individuals in the labor force age group is typical of communities located proximate to the Twin Cities, due to an increasing flow of young families to rural areas. However, significant population of persons 65 and older has raised the City's median age, indicating that Oak Park Heights is a desirable retirement community. This image will only be enhanced with the opening of the VSSA project. Oak Park Heights' age demographics is a major factor in planning for the future of the community in regard to demand for services such as parks and trails, entertainment, schools, and services for the elderly. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 10 L r SOCIAL PROFILE EDUCATION The table below illustrates the education levels for Oak Park Heights residents age 18 and over. As indicated, approximately 86.2 percent of Oak Park Heights' population has attained a high school diploma or higher and 16.7 percent have attained a college bachelors degree or higher. For comparison purposes, 90.1 percent of Washington County's population age 25 and over have attained a high school degree and 26.3 percent have attained a bachelors degree or higher. 1990 Education Levels Age 18 and Over Level Attained Oak Park Percent Washington Percent Heights County > 9th Grade 103 4.5% 3,095 3.4% 9th to 12th 216 9.3% 5,852 6.5% (no diploma) High School 921 39.9% 29,961 33.3% Graduate Some College 547 23.7% 19,009 21.1% (no degree) Associate Degree 136 5.9% 8,408 9.4% Bachelors Degree 315 13.6% 16,866 18.8% Graduate 73 3.1% 6,705 7.5% Degree Total over 25 2,311 100.0% 89,896 100.0% % High School grad — 86.2% — 90.1% or higher % Bachelors -- 16.7% — 26.3% Degree /Higher Source: U.S. Census, 1990 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 11 SOCIAL PROFILE OCCUPATION AND TRAVEL TIME TO WORK Information from the 1990 Census regarding employment demographics for Oak Park Heights is depicted in the table below and on the next page. Oak Park Heights' labor force is fairly evenly divided among the categories illustrated by the table. The most common occupation category within Oak Park Heights' labor force, is technical, sales, and administration support occupations (35.0 percent) followed by service occupations (26.9 percent) and managerial and professional specialty occupations (22.6 percent). The remaining 15.5 percent of the labor force consists of operators, fabricators, and laborers. For comparison, the labor force for all of Washington County consists of the following: managerial and professional occupations, 29.8 percent; technical, sales, and administrative support occupations, 35.1 percent; service occupations, 23.2 percent; operators, fabricators and laborers, 20.0 percent. 1990 Occupations Oak Percent TOTAL Washington Percent TOTAL Park County Heights I Managerial and 22.6% 29.8% Professional Executive, 164 10.5 10,608 8.8 Administration and Managerial Professional 189 I 12.1 I 12,189 10.0 Technical, Sales and 35.0% 35.1% Administrative Support Technical 71 I 4.6 I 3,541 3.2 Sales Occupation 183 I 11.8 I I 9,093 l 10.3 Administrative Support I 289 18.6 I 14,168 15.2 I Service I I 26.9% I I 23.2% Private Household 9 .6 I I 195 0.4 Protective Service 64 I 4.1 I 1,033 0.9 Other 158 I 10.1 I 7,665 11.5 I OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 12 L SOCIAL PROFILE 1990 Occupations Farm, Forest, Fishing 15 1.0 767 4.3 Precision Product, Craft 173 11.1 8,162 15.4 and Repair Operators, 15.5% 11.9% Fabricators and Laborers Machine Operators, 153 9.8 4,348 5.7 assemblers, inspectors Handlers, equipment 35 2.2 2,198 2.7 cleaners, helpers, laborers Transportation and 54 3.5 2,685 3.5 material Moving Occupations Total 1,557 — I 100.00 l 76,652 l — 100.00 Source: U.S. Census, 1990. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 13 SOCIAL PROFILE Census data regarding travel to work time, as shown in the table below, indicates that almost 40 percent of Oak Park Heights' labor force travels less than 10 minutes to work, indicating that a large segment of the population is employed within the Oak Park Heights /Stillwater/ Bayport area. Conversely, just 22.5 percent of the labor force travels over 30 minutes to work. Travel Time to Work Time Traveled Number Percent Less than 5 minutes 143 9.4% 5 to 9 minutes 434 28.5% 10 to 14 minutes I 233 15.3% 15 to 19 minutes 143 9.4% 20 to 29 minutes 227 14.9% 30 to 39 minutes I 208 13.7% 40 to 59 minutes I 108 I 7.1% 60+ minutes 13 I .8% Worked at Home I 14 I .9% Total I 1,523 100.0% Source: U.S. Census, 1990 INCOME The 1990 Census data regarding median family income and per capita income for Oak Park Heights and several surrounding communities is illustrated in the tables on the following page. In 1990, the median family income in Oak Park Heights was below the median of a range of median family incomes for other communities in the area. Oak Park Heights' 1990 per capita income was one of the lowest of a small range of per capita income figures for nearby communities, including the Washington County per capita income average. These figures for Oak Park Heights are likely a result of the high number of retirement age persons many of whom are living on fixed incomes, the number may also be attributed to a high number of young families beginning to have children while establishing career and financial foundations. This trend is supported by the household and age demographics of Oak Park Heights of discussed previously. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 14 i SOCIAL PROFILE 1990 Median Family Income Oak Park Heights $37,895 Stillwater 45,543 Bayport 43,750 Baytown Township 52,619 Lake Elmo 51,076 Oakdale 44,844 Woodbury 55,696 Washington County 48,098 Source: U.S. Census, 1990 1990 Per Capita Income Oak Park Heights $15,210 Stillwater 16,021 Bayport 17,832 Baytown Township 17,179 Lake Elmo 20,603 Oakdale 16,207 Woodbury 21,569 Washington County 17,435 Source: U.S. Census, 1990. The numbers /percentages of individuals and families for which low income status had been determined in the region is illustrated in the following table. The average poverty threshold for unrelated individuals in 1989 was $6,310 while the average poverty threshold for a family of four persons in 1989 was $12,674. These people may require public assistance to meet their housing needs. As such, they are an important consideration in future planning. As the following table illustrates, the percentage of low income individuals in Oak Park Heights are higher than those of the surrounding communities. Of note, the percentage of low income individuals and families in Oak Park Heights is significantly higher than the Washington County percentages. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 15 SOCIAL PROFILE 1990 Low Income Population Individuals I Percent Families Percent Oak Park Heights 244 7.9% 49 5.6% Stillwater 765 5.7% 195 5.3% Bayport 118 7.0% 33 7.0% Baytown Township 17 1.8% 5 1.9% Lake Elmo 298 5.1% 71 4.4% Oakdale 1,059 I 5.8% 244 4.8% Woodbury 500 I 2.5% 111 2.0% Washington County 6,212 I 4.3% 1,921 3.9% Source: U.S. Census, 1990. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 16 � ti Physical Profile • • • T44 Physical Profile Natural Environment � {�; PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment SUMMARY ■ The topography within Oak Park Heights may be characterized as gently rolling in the western area of the City and increasing in slope to a significant ridge at the bluffline of the St. Croix River Valley. ■ The majority of the soils found within the City of Oak Park Heights are generally suitable for urban development with some moderate limitations. There are two areas of slopes unsuitable for urban development: along the bluffline of the river valley and in the area of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility and Valley View Park. ■ Oak Park Heights contains many wetlands, most of which are located in the western areas of the City. These wetlands serve an important function as ponding areas for excess storm water runoff. In addition, these areas are also valuable for flood water retention, ground water recharge, nutrient assimilation, wildlife habitat and aesthetics. ■ The majority of Oak Park Heights is minimally affected by flooding of the St. Croix River's waters due to the steep bluffline that transverses the central area of the City. A small area on the extreme eastern portion of the City adjacent to the St. Croix River Valley has been designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being within the 100 year floodplain. ■ The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has identified significant pollution sites within Oak Park Heights. Two of these sites are NSP fly ash disposal sites, one of which has been cleaned up. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 17 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment TOPOGRAPHY The terrain in Oak Park Heights can be characterized as gently rolling in the west and increasing in slopes until a ridge of severe slope at the edge of the St. Croix River Valley. The least significant topographic changes occur in the mostly undeveloped western portions of the City. The most severe topography changes extend from the eastern portion of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds north to the Highway 36 /Highway 95 interchange. This topography change is best described as a ridge separating the City's higher elevations from the lower elevations of the river valley. The map on a following page identifies areas of steep slope which may serve to influence or restrict development within the City. SOILS The soils found in a particular area often determine the type and extent of urban development that can occur in the area. Factors such as soil strength, drainage and frost characteristics may serve to limit the amount and type or urban development that can be accommodated on the land. The United States Department of Agriculture completed a detailed survey of soils within Washington County, including the area of Oak Park Heights, in 1977. While it should be recognized that any large scale mapping of soils results in an extremely generalized graphic statement, the information does serve to illustrate the relationship between soils and the areas available for development. Generally, the soils within Oak Park Heights belong to one of three soil associations. These categories are as follows: Santiago - Kingsley. This soil association is characterized by undulating to steep slopes, are well drained with a moderately coarse texture. Soils within this association are characterized as being good to fair for supporting urban development. Antigo - Chetek - Mahtomedi. Soils in this association are generally formed in outward areas with slopes ranging from nearly level to steep. These soils are typically well to excessively drained with a medium to coarse texture. These soils are generally well suited for supporting urban development. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 18 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment Antigo- Comstock. These soils are generally level to moderately sloping and are formed predominantly in underlying sandy outwash plains and glacial lake plains. The main limitation of this series for urban development is susceptibility to frost heaving and a high water table in low lying areas. A more detailed description of the soils found within Oak Park Heights, in terms of suitability for urban development, is provided on the map which follows. Generally, the soils along the river bluffs and on the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds on the southern area of the City are poor for urban development purposes. Of greater importance, the Department of Agriculture has classified the majority of the soils in the western annexation area as moderate for urban development purposes. The limitations of these soils are related mostly to the slopes of the soil types found in this area. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 19 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 20 � = � / - �:,;.�I J� •���'1�■�i - � � ���� ��I� Ili I�� IIIL�, . 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Y fi 1■ . 1 � �' � ���urlur� :v��j :Irrwln•■ '•PI I .�, �• � , k n �-� w. � � r' G � �s'�1! � � � : � ;��r1 � ��, • lurnr■ >�rllrr� ,u�� �. � . ■ ..�,,, . `�1 y �. � - ... 11r V �; ! ��?� ryi� ` `�� _• p•� noon ■rllls�!■ : i�ljwi • � ��■ 11� 4t ■■ t � ` ` . � ■■ " ..,N , . a Il �. � � \1�.,.°''� ; �s �a�,� �G�� � ��e�' � — � � e '' ' j �� �� ♦ ��/ „�r i � _�w�� � E� ■ /Irf /�3A� 1 ►�� � _N�UrW11 �, -. , ` �� PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment WETLANDS The City of Oak Park Heights contains wetlands which are generally widespread throughout the community as shown on the following Protected Waters and Wetlands Map. Many of these wetlands are large and represent potential physical barriers to development and street connections. The majority of these wetlands are located in the western areas of the City, which is largely undeveloped. The largest of the wetlands in Oak Park Heights is located in the southeastern portion of the City. This wetland is located almost entirely within the boundaries of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility and Valley View Park. These wetlands serve an important function as ponding areas for excess storm water runoff. In addition, these areas are also valuable for flood water retention, ground water recharge, nutrient assimilation, wildlife habitat and aesthetics. In 1991, the Wetlands Conservation Act was passed requiring the preservation of all wetland areas unless federal and state approvals are granted. The filling of designated wetlands requires that the wetland be mitigated at a 2:1 ratio, that is, for every acre of wetland removed, two acres would need to be replaced. VEGETATION The existing natural vegetation masses within Oak Park Heights are identified on the following map. The largest areas of vegetative cover are located in the undeveloped portion in the western areas of the City and around the large wetland area which extends from the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility grounds through Valley View Park. FLOODPLAIN A small area on the extreme eastern portion of the City adjacent to the St. Croix River Valley has been designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as being within the 100 year floodplain. Due to the bluffs leading up from the St. Croix River Valley, the remainder of the City is not affected by flooding during high water periods of the St. Croix River. Those areas within the 100 year floodplain are identified on the Floodplain Map, which follows. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 25 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 26 Ago �� �� ® `� ■■�i� '''�� � ■ � ��ei nn■ =_ � " � ♦ ��� /�/�•� --dam ��I� �: ■■ �' a ■nm ■n■, 9 ` ` � % � _ i` ! 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X11 11� �`■ ■�;= lu�■C JII R� 1 loll NMI 00,110 1 11111 , �, ► `► ��� ■ nunu� 1111■11: I _i SIMON MEMO • ./� __ _= 111111111► t �I■ ., 1 _._ _- a ■n ` -� .._ - - J�.. .ice .,■ _ i , ,/•�� b "b ■ ,+ ° i♦ � .. ■■� ■ R ;::�unnl� ■■■111 rrrr■�11�/� ��� ■ ■� �■ _, .- ���� � r • �� � � f,;� �� � � � 1 � pr ° ■� :I i■■ {IIII►glllllllll� � '� � l ui _ i ' O ` .■ . ►�rl•ui�• noon nor s,,�E. �■ ■ .■ I II _■ ! 1 � :�_ : ��� �� �► ► Q�111 ►`Q� � V�► wlnu u1MSi:.■� llmi n, �` \It, � ME MINIM a' �� ■ !,• r. �: r•nn1■ ■■ a p �'■� e � ► t �` ■ Ilunnn�� ��a� 1 I� UI• n1 � � __�__ � �I -, - -- � � i�� , �■ 111 _�_ � __ _ ±�__ __'_ N`; ':: , �.u, ® • ` • �I i� -_ CI= _� CC - iii ■ � ��`�__� ( � . � 111 _ __ _= __ __� �% �• 'I 1 1 1 1• PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment POLLUTION Pollution has generally not been a problem in Oak Park Heights in the past. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency was contacted to verify any present and past pollution problems which may have been noted. In addition to minor chemical leaks or spills, typically gasoline or oil associated with businesses, several significant potential pollution sites were identified. Two of these sites are Northern States Power fly ash disposal sites. NSP uses these sites to dispose of an ash byproduct created at the Allen S. King power generating facility located adjacent to the river. One of these sites, located on Stagecoach Trail, has been cleaned up. The other site is the primary ash facility which is south of Highway 36 and east of Osgood Avenue. Portions of the site are being capped by NSP and can be utilized for limited land uses including park facilities. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 33 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Natural Environment OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 34 ■ Physical Profile .:_ Land Use • PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use SUMMARY ■ Development patterns for the City of Oak Park Heights have been influenced by the City's proximity to the St. Croix River on the City's eastern border, Stillwater to the north, and Bayport to the south. ■ Residential development patterns are expected to continue to extend to the west within Oak Park Heights, especially with the construction of the Stillwater Area High School and the south into Baytown Township. ■ Significant residential development will occur in the community as a result of the Valley Senior Services Alliance project south of 58th Street to Norell Avenue. ■ With the continuing growth of surrounding residential areas, and the increased demand for new commercial facilities outside of Stillwater's fully developed downtown and existing commercial areas in Oak Park Heights, there will continue to be a surge in commercial development along Highway 36. ■ Residential land use, which is made up of predominantly single family homes, occupies 15 percent of the total land area within the City, and approximately 18 percent of the City's total development property. The primary concentration of single family dwellings is in the central and eastern portion of the community. ■ Over 70 percent of Oak Park Heights' housing stock was constructed prior to 1980. ■ Of the total housing units within the City, 52.3 percent are single family residential and 29.7 percent are high density residential. ■ The City contains a limited amount of development classified as medium density. ■ High density uses are primarily located near Highway 36, with the majority located in the northeast corner of City. ■ Existing commercial development presently accounts for 9 percent of the City's total land use and 12 percent of the developed land in the City. Most of the commercial operations are located on Highway 36. ■ Industrial /business warehousing land uses in Oak Park Heights make up 12 percent of the total land area in the City and 15 percent of the total developed land. The majority of the industrial property is made up of the NSP Power Plant located on the St. Croix River, and fly ash disposal sites on Highway 36. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 35 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use ■ Of the vacant land within the City, 42 percent is designated for low density residential uses, 24 percent designated for commercial uses, and 27 percent designated for industrial uses. ■ Governmental facilities encompass about 238 acres or 12 percent of the City's total land area. Governmental facilities include the Stillwater Sewage Treatment Plant, the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility, City Hall, and the water tower site at Norell Avenue and 58th Street North. ■ City Parks encompass 51.2 acres or 2 percent of the City's total land area and 3 percent of the developed property. ■ Urban growth is expected to continue within Oak Park Heights and ultimately push the limits of the City, which may raise the issue of annexation. ■ Undeveloped land totals 306.7 acres or 16 percent of the total land area in Oak Park Heights. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 36 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use BACKGROUND The development patterns of land use in the City of Oak Park Heights clearly exhibit the influence of both man -made and natural environmental factors. One readily visible influence is the St. Croix River which, being a navigable body of water, has lead to the development of river dependent uses such as the NSP Power Plant and the Sunny Side Marina. The second major influence relates to the historical existence of the City of Stillwater, located north of Oak Park Heights. Since the early 1800's when Stillwater was first settled, its growth pattern has extended to the west and the south. Accordingly, residential development existing in the northern and east - central portions of Oak Park Heights represents a continuation of the Stillwater growth pattern established decades ago. Residential development patterns will continue to extend to the west within Oak Park Heights, especially because of the construction of the Stillwater Area High School on the western border of the City and to the south with potential annexation of portions of Baytown Township. The third major influence on land use patterns in Oak Park Heights is Highway 36. With the continuing growth of surrounding residential areas, and the increased demand for new commercial facilities outside of Stillwater's fully developed downtown and existing commercial areas in Oak Park Heights, there will continue to be a demand for commercial development along the highway. The following map graphically illustrates the distribution and extent of the variety of land use types in Oak Park Heights. The specific breakdown by acreage of land use types are shown in the tables which follow the Land Use Map. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 37 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 38 � -` � ,� �al� I1 ►�� f� � �� anal■ mules � %,, \I 11111 _ �� �� ���■ � �� unni■ ��' \ � �' j '�� _ _ ='_ m ° °u►„ � :v ::mss ��9 , �� .: ilia INDIO ISO _.: %//' — rte. , -- , • , Mw •i„ v IS MON . �� ' �- I ■■1 going ■■ifcof.fn.n...�, •' i - _ ■� : ■_ � i i ii�iii■ :f SE ' iiiuiinl i� piNp11111111- �� ,' � �` . ►Irflffl � IIIf11.• \fff� ■ p = / � � �1101/Or 1 - i \i i�� �� � - ■�11 \II rVII� ■I�ui� i\ D� � ��n■o / /Unffnu � � -uuAm■�n■A� ■7 OWN 1- 1 Egg M CI � , �� �� � b i � ■ R / ,� � - -_ == =,111 n = lti:, __ FM " PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use Oak Park Heights is approximately 1,956.2 acres in size. The predominant uses of land within the City include: public right -of -way, which includes the State Highway 36 improvement project and the St. Croix River Crossing project; governmental facilities which include the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility; vacant land; single family residential development. Also a large portion of the City is taken up by the NSP Power Plant. Further details and an explanation of each land use category will occur following the tables below. 1998 Total Land Use Breakdown Categories Acreage Percent of Total Low Density Residential 232.2 12% Medium Density Residential 21.3 1% High Density Residential 33.3 2% Commercial 188.3 9% Industrial/Business Warehousing 230.0 12% Parks 51.2 2% Governmental Facilities 238.7 12% School / Church / Cemetery 116.5 6% Wetlands 93.0 5% Vacant / Undeveloped 306.7 16% Public Right -of -Way 445.0 23% Totals 1,956.2 100% Source: Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 41 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use 1998 Developed Land Use Breakdown Categories Acreage Percent of Total Low Density Residential 232.2 15% Medium Density Residential 21.3 1% High Density Residential 33.3 2% Commercial 188.3 12% Industrial /Business Warehousing 230.0 15% Parks 51.2 3% Governmental Facilities 238.7 15% School / Church / Cemetery 116.5 8% Public Right -of -way 445.0 29% Totals 1,556.5 100% Source: Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. 1998 Undeveloped Land Use Breakdown Categories Acreage Percent of Total Low Density Residential 130.1 42% Medium /High Density Residential 5.8 2% Commercial 74.6 24% Ind ustrialBusiness- Warehousing 81.2 27% Parks 15.0 5% Totals 306.7 100% Source: Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 42 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use RESIDENTIAL As shown in the previous table, residential land use occupies 15 percent of the total land area in the City. Single family dwellings are scattered throughout the City. The City's original single family homes are located in the eastern portion of the City. Recent single family development however, has occurred in the western and central portions of the City. New development is expected to continue in western areas of the City and eventually to the south. In 1998, the City contained 130.1 acres of land available for residential development, although most is committed to the VSSA project. Medium density residential development is located primarily in three locations. First, the development east of Osgood Avenue on 56th and 57th Street; second, at the intersection 58th Street and Peabody Avenue; and third, south of Highway 36, west of Oakgreen Ave. High density residential development are primarily located in four locations. First, in the northeast corner of the City on the St. Croix River their is a large area of high density residential apartments. Second, there are two high density developments south of Highway 36 and West of Osgood Avenue, and finally, there are two locations north of Highway 36 on both sides of Osgood Avenue, and east of Osgood Avenue on Paris Street North. In 1998, the City contained 5.8 acres of vacant land available for construction of medium /high density residential buildings. In some of the City's residential areas, physical barriers such as wetlands, major traffic corridors (Highway 36) and the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility, have isolated neighborhoods from one another, and incomplete street networks complicate traffic movement between neighborhoods and business hubs. COMMERCIAL Existing commercial development presently accounts for 9 percent of the City's total land use. Virtually all of the existing retail and service facilities are clustered along State Highway 36. While there is a small scattering of vacant commercial property, the majority of available land for commercial development is located north of the Stillwater Area High School along 58th Street, State Highway 5 and 36. Vacant land available for commercial development in 1998 was 74.6 acres. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 43 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use INDUSTRIAL /BUSINESS WAREHOUSE Industrial /business warehouse land uses in Oak Park Heights total 230.0 acres or 12 percent of the total land area in the City and 15 percent of the City's total developed land. Virtually all of this acreage is attributed to the NSP Power Plant located on the St. Croix River. Three smaller industrial areas or business warehousing /highway business areas are located east of Osgood Avenue (NSP A.S. King Ash Disposal Facility), on County Road 21 near the southern border of the City, and the Kern Center west of State Highways 5 and 36. These industrial areas are relatively isolated from residential areas, and do not present any conflicting land uses. In 1998, there was 81.2 acres of vacant land available for industrial development. Most of this available land is located west of Highway 5 in the Kern Center. GOVERNMENTAL FACILITIES A significant amount of land within Oak Park Heights is devoted to governmental facilities which encompass 238.7 acres or 12 percent of the City's total land area and 15 percent of the City's developed land. Governmental facilities include the Stillwater Sewage Treatment Plant, the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility, City Hall, and the water tower site at Norell Avenue and 58th Street North. PARKS The City parks are separately classified in the Land Use Table. These areas encompass 51.2 acres or 2 percent of the City's total land area. The park areas will be discussed in detail in the Community Facilities section of this document. VACANT /UNDEVELOPED The vacant/undeveloped land identified on the Existing Land Use Map and the Land Use Table includes that which has not been developed, permanent open space, or that which has been subdivided for development, but remains vacant. It totals 306.7 acres or 16 percent of the total land area in Oak Park Heights. The immediacy of the prospects for development on these parcels varies considerably and are closely tied to the current climate in the housing market, commercial development interest, and other variables. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 44 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use Of all of the vacant land within the City, the majority (44 percent) is available for residential development or has been planned for such as the VSSA project. Vacant commercial land is primarily located along Highway 36 and constitutes 24 percent of all vacant land. Vacant industrial /business warehouse land is located in two locations west of Oakgreen, east of Norell Avenue and north of 58th Street, and in Kern Center, and makes up 27 percent of all vacant land. PHYSICAL BARRIERS Natural features such as lakes, rivers and wetlands as well as human constructed features such as streets and railroads often act to contain land use and restrict access. In dividing and distinguishing subareas within a community, such barriers become a vital consideration for logical planning. Physical barriers within Oak Park Heights include the St. Croix River, State Highway 36 and 95, wetlands, and railroad. The impact of physical barriers may be seen to have both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, barriers serve to define cohesive areas and to lend structure to the arrangement of land uses, often separating uses which would otherwise generate conflict. On the negative side, barriers may artificially constrain development, and in separating developed areas, produce problems of access and circulation between related land uses. The physical barriers within Oak Park Heights are not viewed as being severe in terms of any one area, but rather are spread out as smaller obstacles throughout the City. Minor physical barriers such as these can be overcome with proper planning and land use patterns should be encouraged to take advantage of the positive aspects outlined above. HISTORICAL SITES Three historic sites have been identified in Oak Park Heights. Although none of the sites have been included on the National Register, all three have been identified as being eligible for listing. They are as follows: Moritz Bergstein House and Shoddy Mill Six buildings on two sites are directly associated with the Bergstein properties including the house, town barn, two outbuildings, the shoddy mill /warehouse, and fieldstone storage building. The site is located at Stagecoach Trail North and Upper 59th Street North. These properties are to be removed by MnDOT as part of the acquisition for the St. Croix River Bridge. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 45 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use Club Tara Built in 1932, the building is a relatively unaltered example of 20th Century roadside architecture. The structure, still in use today as a restaurant and bar, is located along 60th Street North, east of Osgood Avenue North. Stillwater Overlook The overlook is a relatively unaltered example of a scenic wayside designed to provide a view of Lake St. Croix. It was designed and built in 1938 as part of the federal public works programs of the 1930s and 1940s. The overlook is located along Lookout Trail North. EXISTING AND ANTICIPATED DEVELOPMENT As discussed herein, existing development has been concentrated primarily in central and eastern portions of the City. Developing commercial and residential areas of the City have been occurring to the west toward the western border. This growth is expected to continue and ultimately push toward the limits of the City, and likely result in consideration of annexation to the west and south into Baytown Township and Lake Elmo. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 46 • -_ iii - ■11 �� � �- C�111 �= iii�C�i ��� B�� ���� If NNW limmil �:�► �I �� ��I I. III I► ���� � I�� ■1■° mini ''� I a� M E ' C �♦ ■i mp1 u■■■ ■�' .. . ■ "' � _... � -_ _ . ■illy �� ��.��:� ,� • '► ! - - �= 11111 111 \' �. .,I■ -- = \ \,�.� it l ;�=I ■� �I� x1111 oil .. 1 Eggs q; '' aw�■ �.�,qll ►� ♦ p� mnw nn �, IIm. a� ■ 1 pnn ■1 � r I / � / ■ ■ ■ lit � �u..■� : IN OOP ■l G! `� � , �� � • . - .�■■� :� _ __ _= __ __ = Ili °�!� �� ���_ _, q � , • • t � 111 = -- - -- ' 'I ' - -• - -- ° -- SIS _M ' .� • �_ ___ __ __ = it -:� r h: PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use AGE AND CONDITION OF STRUCTURES Generally speaking, Oak Park Heights' housing stock appears to be in good condition. There are areas within the City where homes do exhibit signs of deterioration, but they are fairly negligible and limited to the oldest portions of the community. Further, the purchase of homes for the St. Croix River Bridge by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, has caused the elimination of some of the homes that are most in need of repair. Additional minor problems have been noted with regard to site appearance and outdoor storage for scattered residential lots in the City, although most lots comply with the City's zoning regulations. The table below indicates that 70.6 percent of Oak Park Heights' housing stock was constructed prior to 1980. These homes are typically found in the northeastern and eastern portion of the City. The remaining 29.4 percent has been constructed since 1980 and are primarily located in the southwestern portion of the City. 1990 Housing Units by Year Structure Built Year Built Number Percent 1939 or earlier 130 9.5 1940-1949 38 2.8 1950-1959 80 5.9 1960-1969 197 14.5 1970-1979 517 37.9 1980-1984 159 11.7 1985-1988 215 15.8 1989 - March 1990 26 1.9 Total 1362 100.00 *Source: U. S. Census of Population, 1990 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 49 d PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use HOUSING TYPE As the following table indicates, 52.3 percent of housing units within the City are low density; either single family (46.1 percent) or two family (6.2 percent) units. High density units account for 29.7 percent of the available housing stock. To a lesser extent, medium density housing types are shown by the U.S. Census as encompassing 12.7 percent of the total housing stock. The available housing types of single family, duplexes and apartments does, however, provide the opportunity for a diverse community which includes both traditional and non- traditional lifestyles. As the City continues to grow, providing a variety of housing types, sizes, and values will be increasingly important. 1990 Housing Units by Type of Unit Type Number Percent Single Family (Detached) 622 46.1 Single Family (Attached) 84 6.2 Low Density (2 units) 70 5.2 Medium Density (3 -9 units) 171 12.7 High Density (10+ units) 401 29.7 Mobile Home /Other 2 .1 Total 1,350 100.00 Source: U.S. Census of Population, 1990 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 50 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use s MEDIAN HOUSING VALUE Land and structure value significantly influences the way in which individuals use land. It is useful in determining whether a proposed location is feasible for a particular use in terms of land cost and community interest. The following table shows the housing values of single family homes within Oak Park Heights. The majority (65 percent) of homes are valued between $60,000 and $99,999. While this indicates that the City has a relatively healthy apportionment of affordable homes geared toward low and moderate incomes, it also provides a relatively narrow range of single family housing values in the community. People seeking lower priced housing within Oak Park Heights also have the additional alternative of multiple family rental housing. 1990 Median Value of Owner Occupied Housing Units Value Number Percent $0-$39,999 11 1.7 $40,000 - $59,999 63 9.9 $60,000 - $74,999 126 19.7 $75,000 - $99,999 289 45.3 $100,000 - $124,999 86 13.5 $125,000 - $149,999 33 5.2 $150,000 - $174,999 30 4.7 Total 638 100.00 Source: U.S. Census of Population, 1990 40 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 51 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use LAND USE CONTROLS Land uses within Oak Park Heights are presently governed by the City Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances. Applications for development and associated concept plans are reviewed by City Staff and consultants. Formal plans are then submitted to the City staff, Planning Commission, and City Council for review and approval. The zoning and subdivision regulations underwent a comprehensive update in 1996. The last update of the City's overall Comprehensive Plan has not been since 1980, thus the Land Use Plan was not reflective of the community's current goals. The City has approved Comprehensive Plan amendments for properties, especially west of Oakgreen Avenue that have been annexed in the 1980s and 1990s. The Zoning Map has been updated so that it is reflective of established zoning districts and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The table below shows the breakdown of existing zoning districts based on their classification and size. The Zoning Map illustrates the current arrangement of zoning districts in Oak Park Heights, showing only zoning districts currently established within the City. 1998 Zoning District Breakdown Zoning District Classification Acreage Percent Percent of Total District of Total City Acreage 0 Open Space Conservation 597 41% 30% R -1 Single Family Residential 163 11% 8% R -1A Single Family Residential 0 0 0 R -1 B Single Family Residential 0 0 0 R -1 C Single Family Residential 0 0 0 R -2 Low & Medium Density Residential 177 12% 9% R -3 I Multiple Family Residential 45 3% 2% R -B Residential Business Transitional 20 2% 1% B -1 Neighborhood Business J 0 0 0 B -2 I General Business 40 3% 2% B -3 I Highway Business and Warehousing 113 8% 5% CBD I Central Business District 80 5% 4% OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 52 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use 1998 Zoning District Breakdown B -W BusinessMa rehousing 0 0 0 1 Industrial 182 14% 9% PUD Planned Unit Development 24 2% 1 % Totals 1,441 100% 72% Right -of -way and wetlands are not included within the total acreage. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 53 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 54 IL r ♦ / MEN ■ IF - .Is�� . , ,, �.. • � • � : • ■■rin it �1 ■ .- � "� V` ���I�'i��� : ��� iurrii �� � �•� nr■uu nur L•m /������i► �� i� 1 �1:� WN oil MINE IL I LLS 1 1 o il �. ■ r.: OEM In IN win NJ oil ONCE- r�1 ■r ■■ ■■ ■ w ■� 1� WW ' , ' ' • � ■ O cIC iii �� PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use The following paragraphs summarize the major elements of the Zoning Ordinance. "O ", Open Space Conservation District: The purpose of the O District is to provide a district which will allow suitable areas of the City to be retained and utilized for new low density residential, non -local jurisdiction public uses, open space, agricultural uses and provide a "holding" zone for newly annexed lands to ensure that development will be staged to maintain reasonable economy in public expenditures for public utilities and service. "R-1", Single Family Residential: The R -1 District is designed to provide for low density single family detached residential dwelling units and directly related, complementary uses. "R -1A, Single Family Residential: The purpose of the R -1 A District is to provide for low density single family detached residential dwelling units and directly related, complementary uses. R -1B, Single Family Residential: The purpose of the R-113 District is to provide for low density single family detached residential dwelling units and directly related, complementary uses. R -1C, Single Family Residential: The purpose of the R -1 C District is to provide for large lot, low density single family detached residential dwelling units and directly related, complementary uses in areas of the City containing highly unique natural features and amenities. "R -2 Low & Medium Density Residential: The purpose of the R -2 District is to provide for low to moderate density residential dwellings and directly related, complementary uses. "R -3 ", Multiple Family Residential: The R -3 District is intended to provide for medium to high density housing in multiple family structures and directly related, complementary uses. "R -B ", Residential - Business Transitional District: The purpose of this district is to provide for high density residential use and for the transition in land use from residential to low intensity business allowing for the intermixing of such uses. "B-1", Neighborhood Business: The purpose of the B -1 District is to provide for the establishment of local centers for convenient, limited office, retail or service outlets which deal directly with the customer for whom the goods or services are furnished. These centers are to provide services and goods only for the surrounding neighborhoods and are OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 57 I PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use not intended to draw customers from the entire community. Currently, the City does not contain any property zoned B -1. "B -2 ", General Business: The purpose of the B -2 District is to provide for high intensity, retail or service outlets which deal directly with the customer for whom the goods or services are furnished. The uses allowed in this district are to provide goods and services on a community market scale and located in areas which are well served by collector or arterial street facilities. "B -3 Highway Business and Warehousing District: The purpose of the B -3, Highway Business and Warehousing District is to provide for the establishment of retail and wholesale sales, storage, warehousing, and limited manufacturing and production. "CBD " ' Central Business District: The purpose of the CBD District is to provide a district accommodating those retail sales, services, and office functions which are characteristic to a "downtown" area and to allow a downtown area to expand, develop and redevelop while maintaining the desired character. "B -W; Business/Warehousing: The purpose of the B -W, Business/Warehousing District is to provide for the establishment of wholesale and retail trade of large volume or bulk commercial items, storage and warehousing. The overall character of the B -W District is intended to be transitional in nature, thus industrial uses allowed within this district shall be limited to those which can compatibly exist adjacent to commercial and lower intensity activities. "I ", Industrial: It is the intent of the I District to provide for the establishment of warehousing and light industrial development. "PUD ", Planned Unit Development: The purpose of the PUD District is to provide for the integration and coordination of land parcels as well as the combination of varying types of residential, commercial and industrial uses. River Impact District: The River Impact District is established to provide necessary protection to lands which fall within the designated regional floodplain and Lower St. Croix National Scenic River way area as defined by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regulations. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 58 i PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use The table below summarizes all of the established zoning districts along with their minimum lot size, width, setback, building height, and percent coverage requirements, and is intended as a general reference source. Summary of Zoning District Classifications & Requirements Min. Lot Setbacks Principal Zoning Min. Lot Width Building District District Classification Size (interior) F S4 S -C R Height O Open Space 5 acres 200 feet 50 30 30 50 35 feet Conservation R -1 Single Family Residential 10,400 sf 80 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet R -1A Single Family Residential 12,500 sf 85 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet R -1 B Single Family Residential 15,000 sf 90 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet R -1 C Single Family Residential 20,000 sf 100 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet R -2 Low & Medium Density 10,400 sf 90 feet 30 10 30 30 35 feet Residential R -3 Multiple Family Res. 15,000 sf 100 feet 30 20 20 30 35 feet R -B Residential Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 30 10 10 30 35 feet Transitional B -1 Neighborhood Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 30 20 20 30 35 feet B -2 General Business 15,000 sf 100 feet 40 10 20 20 35 feet B -3 Highway Business and 15,000 100 feet 40 10 20 20 35 feet Warehousing CBD Central Business District No No minimum No minimum 35 feet minimum B -W Business/Warehousing 30,000 sf 100 feet 50 20 50 20 35 feet I Industrial 1 acre 100 feet 50 30 30 40 45 feet PUD Planned Unit — — — — Development River Impact District — — — — F = Front yard setback as measured from the property line S -1= Side yard setback on interior lots S -C = Side yard setback on corner lots R = Rear yard setback OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 59 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Land Use OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 60 IL -f x Physical Profile Transportation , f r PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation SUMMARY ■ Oak Park Heights' street system consists of a principal arterial roadway (State Highway 36), two minor arterial roadways (State Highway 95 and 5), three major collector roads (Northbrook Boulevard / Oakgreen Avenue, County Road 67 [Osgood Avenue], and County State Aid Highway 21 [Stagecoach Trail]), four minor collectors, (future 58th Street, Oldfield Avenue, 57th Street and O'Brien Avenue), and a series of local streets. ■ Traffic volume on Oak Park Heights' streets and highways is increasing along with population and development. Between 1990 and 1996, traffic levels grew 5 percent within Oak Park Heights and this trend is expected to continue. ■ Highway 36 is the primary arterial roadway that serves Oak Park Heights, and is the main transportation link to the Twin Cities. ■ The construction of the St. Croix River Bridge, which originally was projected to begin construction in 1997, has now been delayed until the new preferred location is agreed upon. Highway 36 reconstruction through Oak Park Heights with intersection improvements at Norell, Oakgreen, Osgood, and Highway 95 has also been delayed until a final decision on the bridge issue has been made. ■ Traffic patterns indicate that the City's most dominant circulation routes occur near the interchanges on Highway 36. State Highway 5 and 95 are the most heavily traveled roadways which provide higher speed vehicular routes to Highway 36. These roadways provide linkages between regional centers and are of major influence upon the community. ■ Oak Park Heights contains one railroad line, which is utilized by Union Pacific. This line serves the NSP Power Plant. North of Oak Park Heights, this line turns into the Minnesota Transportation Museum Line, and is utilized by the Minnesota Zephyr which offers short trip dining rides along the St. Croix River. ■ Oak Park Heights is served by both the Metropolitan Council Transit Operations (MCTO) and the St. Croix Valley Transit. ■ Oak Park Heights is served by a number of airport facilities. The Minneapolis /St. Paul International Airport serves as the region's major airport by providing residents with access to national and international markets. The Lake Elmo Airport, St. Paul Downtown Airport, and the Forest Lake Airport relieve the major airport by accommodating corporate and small aircraft as well as the recreational air transportation needs of area residents. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 61 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation ROAD AND HIGHWAY NETWORK While Oak Park Heights does contain a number of transportation modes, the primary emphasis this section will focus upon is the City's street and highway system. The significance of these existing and developing networks in terms of economic, social and recreational considerations makes them a central concern for comprehensive planning. Functional Classification The functional classification system for the City's streets and highways, developed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, is based on anticipated usage of between five to ten years in the future. The City of Oak Park Heights contains a principal arterial roadway, two minor arterial roadways, three major collector roadways, four minor collectors and a series of local streets. Principal Arterials. Principal arterials have the highest volume capacity. They function to connect metropolitan population centers with one another and connect major business concentrations, important transportation terminals, and large institutional facilities. These roadways are typically spaced 3 to 6 miles apart in developing areas, and 6 to 12 miles apart in commercial agricultural and general rural areas. These roadways are designed for high speed movement and for high vehicle volumes, including commercial traffic, and are intended to serve longer trips. The principal arterial roadway within the City of Oak Park Heights is State Highway 36. Minor Arterials. Minor arterials also place more emphasis on mobility than on providing land access. Minor arterials typically connect cities and other major activity centers to each other and to the principal arterials. They may also provide relief for congestion on parallel principal arterials. While there is more access to minor arterials than to principal arterials, the emphasis is still on mobility. The City of Oak Park Heights contains two minor arterial roadways, State Highway 95, and State Highway 5. Major Collectors. Major collectors are roadways which place emphasis on both mobility and land access. Major collectors typically connect neighborhoods within and between subregions. The City of Oak Park Heights contains three major collector roadways: Northbrook Boulevard /Oakgreen Avenue; County Road 67 (Osgood Avenue); and County State Aid Highway 21 (Stagecoach Trail). OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 62 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation s Minor Col lectors. Minor collectors provide service between major collector and minor arterial streets to provide critical connections to subregions to relieve local streets of heavy traffic, but also provide for limited direct lot access when necessary. Minor collector streets within the City include future 58th Street (which will eventually connect Highway 5 with Oakgreen Avenue), Oldfield Avenue, 57th Street and O'Brien Avenue. Local Roadways. All other roadways that do not fall into the functional classifications discussed above are local roadways. Local streets interconnect blocks within residential neighborhoods and land parcels within commercial and industrial developments. In the urban areas they occur every block, while in the rural area one -mile spacing is typical. Their primary function is to provide property access. Typically these are city or township roads. Jurisdiction The streets and highways within Oak Park Heights are classified as State, County, or local roadways. Northbrook Boulevard / Oakgreen Avenue is presently designated as a local collector street, however, Washington County is proposing to take it over as a County Roadway from County Road 14 in Baytown Township to County Road 12 in Stillwater. Additionally, State Highway 5, on the west side of Oak Park Heights, is to transfer from State jurisdiction to the County. Traffic Volumes The growth of population within the City of Oak Park Heights has been accompanied by increased traffic volumes carried by the streets and highways. The map on the following page shows a comparison of average traffic volumes for the years 1990 and 1996 with projected forecasts for traffic volumes in 2020. In almost every case, the average daily number of vehicles on the roads as counted in 1996, shows an increase over the previous counts in 1990 along Highway 36. However, there was a slight decrease in traffic volumes in the eastern portion of the City, in particular along Highway 95. This may be explained by the road construction that has taken place north of Stillwater which caused detours, and commuter patterns associated with Andersen Windows located in Bayport. The average growth rate in traffic volume within the entire Oak Park Heights street system was 5 percent over the six -year period, and given the recent development within the City of Oak Park Heights and adjoining cities /townships, increasing traffic volumes are expected to continue. The 2020 traffic volume forecasts for State Highway 36, 23 and 95, as shown on the traffic volume map, traffic is projected to increase on all of these OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 63 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation roadways. These increases will have an impact on the City of Oak Park Heights' roadway system. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 64 ■ ■ ■■p! 111 ■■■ J �� • 'off I'��� moo •�11�; It •��IUIII: :1 ■■ JI M ill 11111111 n■nm■ plus [oil � e -a � ` A �� I■I L 11 ■11- -. �� • � mill f SENSE MINIM �� � 1 I'1�, i � �- ��� �■ I'll 1Hi. �- ._ = ■�-: �■_ 1 ''� t��l li , III • ■ 1111 ■11 t. 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'7�I � -_ := nnn Illr �- �� �' ■ ' -- '�■ I� ice' ' � \ \ "Fill!': _ ��, `'� r �f�� �� �„ `����■■■nnt/ : .i� . n Ipl���l1-1111►= /� ��i �`w�� 1 ►.� /// + i t � � _ == ___ _= - s, -� `�� F 1 11 1 , • — _ __ � 1S %i ii �i •� � L • , • _= _� °� __ __ _= __ — off =_ <:1__ i gm 1 - 777 1 7 1 - � — ; --- �— r STILLWATER _ / 49,000/14 ._ _ 19,9.00/19, 00 / -/ ,700 J 041100/44 r— — , 2,8 500/12 600/ / /- 1,800/49 ©6,400/6, -/ 12,500/-/-/ O /-/29,000/-/ - _ 25,0 00 /2"- 000 / -/ _ _ - 21,500/21,0 -/ G 20,000/26,500/- / O - - _— 7,000/10, 000/=/ b 9,000/ -L 7,000/6,800/ -- i 1- �. 9P ,YaE J /-/-/22,5009' - / -/22, 500 = 8; 008,700/23,800 / -_/ 13 000 10,000/425,900 - W � F es ......,., ° I _ IX a _ BAYPOR CO FACILITY - -- RR EC110N.L r 3 o _ a 1 r . v — 1 — - — Q , O o — o -- - -- -- O U ' i C7 O - - - � Q BAYTOWN - - - - \ TO WNS KM - _ ° L -- - - -- - -- p - -- - - - - - _ - o ' I _ a I a o _ sorNSTREET PHYSICAL PROFILE LEGEND N Traffic Volumes Transportation ® ADT Traffic Volumes 1990/1996/2020 V City Limits Wetland /Ponding Areas TA N I C 0.2 0 0.2 0.4 Miles Source: MNDOT, Washington County City of Oak Park Heights Highway Department &Metropolitan Council PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation • IMPROVEMENT PLANS The Washington County Highway Department has designated improvements to certain stretches of roads within the City of Oak Park Heights, over the next three years. First, within the Washington County Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for 1995 -1999, the County is proposing the following roadway expansion projects: County Roads 21 and 28 from County Road 14; and County Road 24 from Highway 36 to Orleans Avenue. Secondly, improvements for Highway 36 and the St. Croix River Bridge were originally programmed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation to begin construction in 1997. As of early 1999, a recommendation on the St. Croix River Bridge and the construction of Highway 36 has been made by the St. Croix River Advisory Group and their consultant Richard Braun. The proposed bridge crossing is south of the existing Stillwater lift bridge but north of the bridge crossing that had been planned in Oak Park Heights. A decision on the bridge and its placement is expected in 1999. The Highway 36 improvements, incuding intersection reconstruction at Norell, Oakgreen, Osgood and Highway 95, have also been delayed until a decision on the bridge has been made. MnDOT has indicated it is reviewing plans to create a separated intersection at the intersection of Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue. The City will actively work with MnDOT on the bridge and intersection planning efforts. STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM As shown on the map on the following page, one area has been designated for major street improvements. The map indicates newly constructed streets, reconstructed streets, and resurfaced streets that have been completed. The area to be reconstructed, which is east of Osgood Avenue, has been programmed for 1999. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 71 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 72 ..� ■ r III — 11■ = i� __ . _ A ■ Q�k• IIIIII� �" ■ ■ ": NINON ■I ; 1� ��, �� \ \ \�U�i i . �■ 11ol ■ Ili# 11 ■mIIII ■•■� I ��� ��� I ►„� ► • ELI= iia1u11: ■m■ =m iles ,. 1111111211111 Moog ' � � �' ►� !cam ■' �innul nli■11■�.. -:'� � h V - • ■ � � i'� = �= 1111111111 /I tl' � — �J f ilm � • 1 '1!`� 'JI OE _ i�ii�■ Nil 'r 1 � �� ^ ��`'� �� "��'•� r !.• >•I ` / _! 1111111// �Y. �i � �; �i � ■ c . ,. �_ o . • �► a ■ ■� ■ >• 11111 plllllllll� ��. . AS ti . /� CRIB '� 11IIII� pID�: !11�►�=wi► 1�.1� 1: �,TI' �. Us 1 `�' `' ��� r ���' �- �V ►,1� �IBII ■ � ������ 111181 ■ID'�,.�,'IIIB ■1 \ . ■ � � . I� SIB■ i�� . • -1 -- � 1 �� a� \ \� ��1►���a -�+��■.. ! �l�l��, ' `� _ I _� = � °=r'_ "; �\ =`mil ' ��' '•� �� � �� ,� 1 � =_ =_ =° =_ '� �� fit\ �� -��- .. � - , Ire � • __ _ �I - - - -_ SEW �� `�f I.� " I �' ' , • — 111111 1 � -_ � �_ -- • , , ♦ � iii __ __' —_ �! ii ii ��■ ■I �� ` • • � DIY �� == =_ �� ' a .� l • � _� _ _ ��= X1\1= : = C 1 r� i� SIS PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation RAIL FACILITIES Oak Park Heights contains one railroad line, which is utilized by Union Pacific. This line serves the NSP Power Plant. North of Oak Park Heights, this line turns into the Minnesota Transportation Museum Line, and is utilized by the Minnesota Zephyr which offers short trip dining rides along the St. Croix River. The City of Oak Park Heights contains one rail -water intermodal facility and the Allen S. King Plant. Intermodal facilities function as a transfer point between road to ports or rail terminals. This facility is used to transfer bulk commodities to the waterway system (St. Croix River). The federal ISTEA legislation passed in 1991 encourages a strong national "intermodal" transportation system, especially any needed improvements to transfer point between such modes. The Minnesota Department of Transportation, Office of Railroads and Waterways, evaluates the performance of each light density rail line, and renders a judgement on its viability status. The Minnesota Transportation Museum line is ranked as "viable, with local traffic." AIRPORTS Oak Park Heights lies proximate to a number of airport facilities. Minneapolis /St. Paul International Airport serves as the region's major airport by providing residents with access to national and international markets. Three smaller airports and runways are located throughout the region. The St. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field) is a major corporate flight facility in the east metro area. The Lake Elmo Airport is owned and operated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), and the Forest Lake Airport is a private airport. These three facilities relieve the major airport by accommodating corporate and small aircraft as well as the recreational air transportation needs of area residents. BUS SERVICE Oak Park Heights is served by both the Metropolitan Council Transit Operations (MCTO) and the St. Croix Valley Transit. As shown on the following map, the MCTO provides two lines through Oak Park Heights. The #80 bus provides service to Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, Bayport, St. Croix Mall, State of Minnesota Correctional Facility, and Andersen Windows. The Express Route 294 provides service from St. Paul, Oakdale and Lake Elmo. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 75 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Transportation The St. Croix Valley Transit consists of one bus that follows a route in and around Oak Park Heights. The bus is privately operated, under contract with the Metropolitan Council. It operates from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and functions as a local circulator connecting activity centers in Stillwater, Bayport and Oak Park Heights. 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I �x Physical Profile ? o Community Facilities PHYSICAL PROFILE - Community Facilities SUMMARY ■ The City of Oak Park Heights provides police protection to the community through its own Police Department. The current size and staffing of the Oak Park Heights Police Department is adequate to provide police protection to the community. ■ Oak Park Heights is provided fire protection through contract with the City of Bayport Volunteer Fire Department. ■ The City is governed by a five member City Council including a Mayor. ■ Day - to-day operation of the City is the responsibility of a full -time City Administrator and a Finance Director. These positions are appointed by the City Council. ■ Ambulance service for the Oak Park Heights community is provided through Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater. ■ The City of Oak Park Heights City Hall facility is located in the central area of the City, south of Highway 36 and east of Oakgreen Avenue. This building houses the City Council Chambers, City Administration, Police Department, and Public Works. ■ The Public Works facility is used exclusively for the storage of materials and equipment used for their activities. This facility is currently adequate to meet public works' needs. ■ The City of Oak Park Heights is entirely within Independent School District 834. The Stillwater Area High School is located within the City of Oak Park Heights. Oak Park Elementary School is located in the City of Stillwater, directly adjacent to Oak Park Heights. ■ The City of Oak Park Heights currently has four public parks of varying size, location and services. A community park has been planned within the VSSA project to the west of Oakgreen Avenue that is intended to serve neighborhoods that develop in this area. This park would also be a recreation opportunity for other residents of the City as well, given its accessible location, and potential connection to other areas of the City via a planned system of trails. ■ The City's existing water system draws water from two wells, which have a peak production capacity of 2.4 million gallons per day (MGD). The existing water distribution system consists of two elevated storage facilities which provide total storage of 750,000 gallons. The City's 1996 Water System Plan, completed by the OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 79 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Community Facilities City Engineer, recommended the construction of a new production well by the year 2020. ■ Public sanitary sewer service is provided throughout most of the community, although not to all areas of the mostly undeveloped west portion of the City. Based upon sewer capacity and demand projections completed as part of the Annexation Area Plan, the City has adequate sewer capacity to service the remaining undeveloped areas of the City. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 80 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Community Facilities POLICE PROTECTION The City of Oak Park Heights provides police protection to the community through its own Police Department. The Police Department is headquartered in the City Hall building, located at 14168 57th Street North. The current size and staffing of the Oak Park Heights Police Department is adequate to provide police protection to the community. FIRE PROTECTION Oak Park Heights is provided fire protection through contract with the City of Bayport Fire Department. The Bayport Fire Department is an all volunteer department that is located at 301 Second Avenue North, Bayport. AMBULANCE SERVICE Ambulance service for the Oak Park Heights community is provided through Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater. The ambulance has two full time crews, each with two paramedics for around the clock response. A third ambulance crew is available on call. PUBLIC WORKS The City of Oak Park Heights has its own Public Works Department, employing three full - time individuals. The responsibilities of the Public Works Department are primarily maintenance and repair of the City's streets and facilities. In addition, street maintenance and snow removal from City streets is handled partly by a private contractor. Public Works offices and equipment is located at the City Hall site. ADMINISTRATION The operation of the City is governed by a five member City Council, which includes the Mayor, elected to staggered four year terms. Day -to -day operations of the City are the responsibility of a full -time City Administrator. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 81 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Community Facilities PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES The City of Oak Park Heights City Hall facility is located in the central area of the City, south of Highway 36 and east of Oakgreen Avenue, as identified on the Community Facilities Map. This building houses the City Council Chambers, City Administration, and Police Department. Located at the City Hall site is the Public Works Department facility. The building is used exclusively by the Public Works Department for the storage of materials and equipment. This building is currently adequate to meet the needs of the Department. However, an expansion to the facility may be necessary in the future to accommodate a larger Public Works Department that would be demanded of a more developed City. SCHOOLS The City of Oak Park Heights is entirely within Independent School District 834. The current and projected enrollments for the Stillwater Area School District are illustrated in the table below: School District Enrollment Oak Park Stillwater Area District Total Elementary High School 1995 -1996 679 — 8,784 1996 -1997 717 2,001 8,940 1997 -1998 (estimate) 715 2,074 9,127 1998 -1999 (estimate) 739 2,175 9,482 1999 -2000 (estimate) 753 2,262 9,730 Source: Stillwater Area School District 834 The Stillwater Area High School is located within the City of Oak Park Heights. The high school facility includes outdoor athletic fields and a significant amount of open space on its site in west Oak Park Heights. Oak Park Elementary, which is located in Stillwater, also has a recreation area on its site located in northeast Oak Park Heights. This area includes sand areas and playground equipment for use by younger children. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 82 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Community Facilities PARKS AND TRAILS The City of Oak Park Heights currently has four public parks of varying size, location and services. The existing parks, shown on the map that follows, were inventoried as part of the Oak Park Heights Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan completed in June of 1995. A brief description of each park is included below for reference. Valley View Park is the largest park within the City and is intended to serve as a passive community park for hikers, picnics and nature. The 65 acre park includes picnic facilities with public restroom facilities, tables and grills, playground equipment, horseshoe pits and internal hiking trails. It is viewed by the City as a very unique and positive amenity in the community given its dense vegetation, varying topography, wetland areas, historic farm site and an array of existing and potential uses. Brekke Park is a high quality, intensively used City park intended as a active recreation area for field games and children's play ground for toddler age and older children. This park serves as a neighborhood park for residents in the south central portion of the City, primarily between Osgood and Oakgreen Avenues. The 10 acre park has facilities for picnics including public bathrooms and grills, baseball /softball fields, basketball courts, a hockey rink and warming house during the winter as well as playground equipment. Swagger Park is also an active neighborhood recreation area, although it is significantly smaller than Brekke Park at 1.4 acres in size. The location of the park is in a fairly central area of the City. Facilities at Swagger Park include baseball /softball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts playground equipment and a picnic shelter. A portion of the park is within a Northern States Power easement. This easement may provide an opportunity to provide a recreation trail that would ultimately connect the new High School site with Valley View Park. Cover park is the oldest and smallest park in the City and provides an active area for surrounding neighborhoods that are otherwise segregated from the north and west portions of the community. The one acre park facilities include picnic tables, basketball courts and playground equipment. In the Winter, a skating /hockey rink is installed with an adjacent warming house. Cover Park will ultimately lie in close proximity to the realigned intersection of Highway 36/95 following completion of the Highway 36 bridge project although it will not be directly impacted. A community park has been planned within the area to the west of Oakgreen Avenue within the VSSA project that is intended to serve the neighborhoods that develop in this area. This park would also be a recreation opportunity for other residents of the City as well, given its accessible location, and potential connection to other areas of the City via OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 83 PHYSICAL PROFILE - Community Facilities a planned system of trails. The proposed site is to be accessed by trails along 58th street when completed. Services available at the park are to be kept to primarily passive uses with the emphasis on the trail system. WATER SERVICE As shown on the following map, property within Oak Park Heights is served by a municipal water system. The existing system draws water from two wells, which have a peak production capacity of 2.4 million gallons per day (MGD). The water is treated and fluoride added. The water distribution system consists of two elevated storage facilities which provide total storage of 750,000 gallons. The City's 1996 Water System Plan completed by the City Engineer recommended the construction of a new production well by the year 2020. This proposed well would be financed by connection charges and trunk area charges. The study also recommended that the City explore potential interconnections with adjacent communities. The water plan is shown on one of the following maps. SANITARY SEWER SERVICE As shown on one of the following maps, public sanitary sewer service is provided throughout most of the community. Sanitary sewer service has not yet been extended to all areas of the mostly undeveloped west portion of the City, which was added through annexation in 1991. Based upon sewer capacity and demand projections completed as part of the Annexation Area Plan, the City has adequate sewer capacity to service the remaining undeveloped areas of the City. Of note, the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission operates a treatment facility adjacent to the St. Croix River north of the Northern States Power facility in Oak Park Heights on Highway 95. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 84 ,—, ��� � ■■ III �� � • _ ._ III. !_ ■ _. ■. .Je rs Moo! ENE IVA 11111 ■ _ O �►�� �� a s? muin n ■■■'WOU ■ ■ ■■ ■!Sol �i ■ :l — �oil �m_I !ieYb� _ — �, . ■ i �• �_� �=! - �■ - mi �■ > _i.. ..ice I �'�I� i _ • NNn■■ ■■ �nit� . Ile Illllllllrt\ .� _. ISO FAM f.-� � � ►� � /� i � �' : ���r1•u►� t, IIU11t tnn�: •u r, ��I�. i► � � ,i �. � 0 �7♦ ,. 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Its li ,. INNER MR Main NIKKO&— monism 2 WE Mau ENKA S IN MISS I L ISR" MEN RON I � � a \x1 Economic Pro |e ?- a - - � ECONOMIC PROFILE SUMMARY ■ Future growth in Oak Park Heights will be influenced by the City's ability to provide public service, the availability of land and regional /national trends such as growth patterns, mortgage rates and fuel prices. ■ Building permit data suggests that residential growth during the 1990s has been fairly constant at a rate of approximately 30 new single family homes a year. ■ The growth rate experienced during the late 1990s is expected to continue into the next century. As such, population projections based upon this growth rate were developed. Oak Park Heights can anticipate a year 2020 population of between 6,600 and 7,500 individuals and total number of households between 2,675 and 3,025 ■ Based upon building permit data and household growth projections, the City can expect to absorb between 1,170 and 1,564 acres (including an overage calculation) of undeveloped land for new residential and commercial /industrial development by the year 2020. ■ The City contains a significant amount of developed industrial land due to the acreage utilized by the NSP facilities, and the Kern Center annexation. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 93 I ECONOMIC PROFILE BACKGROUND AND METHODOLOGY The nature of Oak Park Heights' future with respect to residential, commercial and industrial development potentials depends a great extent on the population growth which takes place in the coming years. As such, the confidence with which future market situations may be assessed is closely related to the quality of projections utilized. Future growth in Oak Park Heights will be influenced by local, regional and national economic and social trends. Regional trends which impact growth include the growth rate and patterns of the Twin Cities Metropolitan areas. National trends affecting growth in Oak Park Heights include mortgage rates, and fuel prices which influence residential development and commuter populations. Oak Park Heights population has increased each of the last three decades and most recently at a rapid rate during the 1980s and 1990s. Through planning and capital improvements, Oak Park Heights is positioning itself for additional future growth. The City's current growth pattern and proximity to the Twin Cities, along with other regional development patterns, suggests that Oak Park Heights will continue to offer an attractive residential environment. Through proper planning, the City can manage and stage improvements in a fiscally responsible manner, insuring financial solvency and environmental quality concurrently. The role of population projections in this planning is central. As such, the provision of accurate projections is a primary focus of this report as is support of municipal service policy development. The population projections developed for Oak Park Heights involved an analysis of local an regional trends and policies and the application of economic and demographic principals. An emphasis was placed upon the detailed demographic profile of Oak Park Heights' population developed in the Social Profile of this report. Local Growth Local growth in Oak Park Heights is limited primarily by the dwindling supply of developable land within the City. Therefore, annexation will become an issue in future years and the developable land availability is further reduced. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 94 i ECONOMIC PROFILE Between 1989 and 1997, the City issued a total of 313 building permits which resulted in 268 new single family, homes and 33 multiple family dwelling units. As illustrated in the table below, development in Oak Park Heights remained fairly constant during this period. The building permit data does suggest a possible increase in residential development as the 1995, 1996 and 1997 building permits for single family residential homes was up over the past few years. Future residential growth in Oak Park Heights is anticipated to maintain at a rate similar to those two years. Building Permit Summary Single Multiple Commercial Industrial Total Housing Family Family 1989 19 — 1 1 21 19 1990 37 — — 1 38 37 1991 20 6 1 — 27 26 1992 26 — 1 — 27 26 1993 23 — — — 23 23 1994 21 7 — — 28 28 1995 39 6 1 — 46 45 1996 51 14 — — 65 65 1997 32 00 6 00 38 32 Total 268 33 10 2 313 301 1989 -1997 29.7 3.7 1.1 .2 34.7 33.4 Average Source: City of Oak Park Heights Building Permit Data Projections The projections below are based upon the building permit data shown in the Building Permit Summary Table above, data from the Social Profile of the Inventory, and development proposals that are being considered in Oak Park Heights. These projections reflect current development trends and current land use policies in the City. In the event of any significant changes in City policy or development influences, the projections will need to be revised to reflect the changing situation. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 95 ECONOMIC PROFILE The table below projects Oak Park Heights' future household and population growth through the year 2020. In projecting this growth, the number of residential units added to the City's existing housing stock from 1990 -1995 is converted to households by applying the City's residential occupancy rate of 86 percent (U.S. Census, 1990). The resulting household figure is converted to a population estimate by multiplying it by the median household size for the years 2000, 2010, and 2020. The population projections have also been adjusted to include the impact of the Valley Senior Services Alliance project and other projects anticipated for Oak Park Heights. The VSSA project is expected to push the overall population to over 5,000 by the year 2000. In order to anticipate a potentially stronger future growth rate, both slow growth and strong growth scenarios have been calculated. The slow growth scenario does not include the two highest building permit numbers in order to eliminate any temporary fluctuations in the development trends. The strong growth scenario conversely, includes these numbers in anticipation of a trend towards an increasing growth rate. Growth in Oak Park Heights will also be based upon the following factors: ■ The impact of the VSSA project and other residential developments anticipated. ■ The City's ability to provide utilities and service to all new development. ■ Adequate land will be available to satisfy the need, market variety, and variable residential environments. ■ The provision of a diverse housing supply to satisfy a range of family and lifestyle needs. Population, Household and Population Trends and Projections 1980 1990 Oct. 2000 2000 2010 2010 2020 2020 1997 (slow) (strong) (slow) (strong) (slow) (strong) House- 955 1,322 1,568 1,850 1,950 2,200 2,400 2,675 3,025 holds H.H. 2.71 2.63 2.59 2.55 2.55 2.50 2.50 2.47 2.47 Size Popula- 2,591 3,486 4,069 4,700 5,000 5,500 6,000 6,600 7,500 tion Employ 2,140 2,220 2,465`" — 3,100 — 4,150 — 4,500 ment Source: U.S. Census, 1980, 1990, Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc., Metropolitan Council ( "" 1995 employment estimate) s OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 96 ECONOMIC PROFILE As tabulated above, Oak Park Heights' population is anticipated to continue to increase through the year 2020 under both the strong and slow growth scenarios. The prison projection at the State Correctional Facility is expected to remain at a constant level between 406 and 460 inmates. Oak Park Heights has an increasing number of young families with children, thus the average household size is anticipated to decrease at a rate slower than previous trends indicate. As a comparison, the following table shows population projections done by the Metropolitan Council and by the City Engineer as part of the City's Water Supply Plan. Population Projections by Metropolitan Council and City Engineer 1995 2000 2010 2020 Population Estimate by 3,776 3,900 5,150 6,450 Metropolitan Council Population Estimate by 3,800 5,000 6,000 7,500 City Engineer Land Demand and Absorptions The growth trends and projections discussed previously provide a foundation for projecting land use demand for the next 25 years. This demand will represent the future growth of Oak Park Heights in terms of residential, commercial /industrial, and public land use. Growth projections for commercial /industrial land use is expected to increase at a much higher level than in the past due to existing land availability for commercial uses along and near Highway 36, and businesses that have inquired about developing within the City of Oak Park Heights. Again it must be noted that these projections may be influenced by trends beyond the City's control, such as regional growth trends and mortgage rates. In consideration of this, the projections contain an inherent degree of uncertainty. However, given the function of the Comprehensive Plan to establish a basic framework for accommodating future growth, the projections which follow provide the necessary structure, if given reasonable flexibility. Land absorption rates (the conversion of rural /vacant land to an urban use) were developed for residential and public uses and a determination was made on how these uses would impact the vacant/rural areas of the City. Again, to anticipate possible fluctuations in the future growth rate, both slow land demand and strong land demand scenarios have been calculated. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 97 ECONOMIC PROFILE Land Demand in Acres (Slow Growth) Based Upon Residential Residential Commercial Public Streets Park Total "Slow" Growth Single Multiple Industrial Scenario Family (1) Family (2) (3) 1995 -2000 38 17 45 8 16 8 132 2000 -2010 275 25 60 14 70 100 544 2010 -2020 135 30 60 14 40 20 299 (1) Based on one (1) lot per 12,500 to 20,000 square feet (2) Based on one (1) unit per 5,000 square feet (3) Based on one (1) lot per 5 acres Land Necessary (in acres) for "Slow" Growth Development 1995 -2000 132 2000 -2010 544 2010 -2020 299 1995 -2020 975 5 year "overage" 1,170 Sources: City of Oak Park Heights Permit Data, U.S. Census, 1990, Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. Land Demand in Acres (Strong Growth) Based Upon Residential Residential Commercial Public Streets Park Total "Strong" Growth Single Multiple Industrial Scenario Family(1) Family (2) (3) 1997 -2000 55 17 60 8 18 8 166 2000 -2010 330 34 108 18 94 138 722 2010 -2020 160 40 108 18 60 30 416 (1) Based on one (1) lot per 12,500 to 20,000 square feet (2) Based on one (1) unit per 5,000 square feet (3) Based on one (1) lot per 5 acres OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 98 L ECONOMIC PROFILE Land Necessary (in acres) for "Strong" Growth Development 1997 -2000 166 2000 -2010 722 2010 -2020 416 1995 -2020 1,304 5 year "overage" 1,564 Sources: City of Oak Park Heights Permit Data, U.S. Census, 1990, Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. While residential development is currently the most predominant urban land use within the community, the City is experiencing an increase in commercial /industrial development. This trend is anticipated to continue for the remainder of the decade and into the next century. Using the building permit data, the population and household projections developed earlier in this section, and the existing breakdown of housing unit type, the future absorption of residential and commercial /industrial land may be calculated. As with the population and household projections, both slow and strong demand projections were calculated. Under the slow growth scenario, it is projected that the City can anticipate a residential and commercial land absorption of between 975 and 1,170 acres by the year 2020. These projections include land necessary for public buildings /facilities, streets, and parks. This calculation is based upon the amount of land necessary to accommodate and provide services for the projected growth. The anticipated residential land demand with overage for the strong growth scenario is between 1,304 and 1,564 acres. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 99 ECONOMIC PROFILE OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE INVENTORY 100 L } OF n >� O AK PARK HEIGHTS N Y Pl Ta ctics Inventory P Pl Development Framework Im NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED CONSULTANTS INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction........................................................................ ............................... 1 CommunityGoals .............................................................. ............................... 3 Natural Environment Goals /Policies ................................. ............................... 7 Land Use Goals /Policies ................................................... ............................... 13 Transportation Goals /Policies ........................................... ............................... 23 Community Facilities Goals /Policies .................................. ............................... 29 Administrative Goals /Policies ............................................ ............................... 35 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN N f Introduction INTRODUCTION The value of a Comprehensive Plan for Oak Park Heights is only partially found in the plans, maps and data. Although such information is a critical element of any plan, the changing nature of that information can give a community only a snapshot of its needs or direction. A more Comprehensive view of the community and its direction can be found in a document which describes the goals of the community, that is, a plan which answers the question "What do we want to be like as a community ?" Without this direction, the plans and programs which are presented in this plan are visionless attempts to improve the community. A lack of clearly defined goals and policies may result in City investments that are incorrectly placed. In addition, the City's policy makers may have difficulty defending their choices to their constituents when the connection between project and ultimate objective is not clear. The Policy Plan of a Comprehensive Plan provides that critical linkage. The Policy Plan does not provide information on the timeliness and priorities for needed community improvements. Instead, it provides a series of criteria which can be used to direct general actions undertaken by public and private groups in response to community needs. Furthermore, the policies are not absolute directives for City staff, Planning Commission or City Council members. Instead, they are guides to assist in decision - making and in goal achievement. Moreover, the policies should be considered and utilized collectively. In some cases, a single policy may define and outline a course of action. More frequently, however, a group of policies will be applied to a given situation. The flexibility and adaptability of the Policy Plan is particularly useful when unanticipated development decisions emerge. It complements the maps, ordinances and City Codes which are more static documents. In some instances, policies may not address a new situation in the community. In this case, the Policy Plan should be updated or modified. This will give the Comprehensive Plan an up -to -date quality which will withstand the test of time. The Policy Plan that follows is an updated and expanded version of what is found in the Comprehensive Plan. In the sections which follow, the terms "goals" and "policies" are used. These terms are defined as follows: GOALS are relatively broad generalities about the future of the community with the ultimate result being the kinds of living, working, and recreational environments that are desired. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 1 I INTRODUCTION POLICIES are definite courses of action which lead to goal achievement. They serve as guides to help make present and future decisions consistent with the stated goals. i OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 2 i _0 0 0 Alm# ' E � E E � � � \ . � > y . � � � COMMUNITY GOALS The goals of the City of Oak Park Heights are summarized below. These goals are designed to address and influence the quality of life through the physical environment. The goal statements have guided the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan and influence how the City will position itself in actions and spending priorities. The goals are not listed in a priority ranking; all are regarded as equally important statements for the City's direction. • Encourage continued but orderly and diverse growth in Oak Park Heights. In order to maintain a strong economic and social base for Oak Park Heights, growth is viewed as positive. A need exists to provide a wide range of residential and commercial and industrial opportunities in the community and promote diversity in the types of development. This growth and diversification, however, should be accomplished in an orderly, organized and coordinated fashion. • Establish and maintain a desirable community image within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Oak Park Heights' reputation within the region is that of a growing community with moderate value housing and an expanding commercial sector. There is concern that existing conditions in some older portions of the community may not reflect the high quality image desired. Image enhancement activities such as higher quality developments, stronger development requirements, code enforcement, and public improvements should be explored to maintain and further strengthen the image of the community. • Provide a diversity of land use opportunities within the City to ensure a wide range of employment and consumer options, as well as housing choices. The City consists of a blend of residential, commercial and industrial land use. Single family is currently the predominant land use growth sector. Retail and employment industries are also seen as a growing sector as the City and Metropolitan Area continue to expand and mature. The City must ensure adequate area is provided to support the growing residential and economic sectors through continuing development and redevelopment activities. • Provide for continued and orderly growth of commercial development opportunities along State Highway 36. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 3 COMMUNITY GOALS The area along Highway 36 provides the City a retail base and helps give a sense of identity. Large areas of vacant land provide numerous development opportunities including creation of a Central Business District as a town center on the south side of Highway 36. The City shall guide development in a cohesive pattern to ensure compatibility and functional relationships among land uses. • Improve substandard and distressed areas. Some older areas of Oak Park Heights contain substandard and distressed sites and buildings. Some of the structures in these areas do not comply with existing zoning or building codes. Code enforcement and City redevelopment efforts are needed to upgrade and eliminate the other substandard areas and to promote high quality renewal consistent with the character of the community. • Protect Oak Park Heights' natural resources. The St. Croix River, as well as the wetlands and significant tree massings scattered throughout the community, provide natural amenities and add significant aesthetic recreational and economic value to the community. The City should continue to take measures to preserve and protect these resources. Providing access to and preservation of the views of the river and wetlands are necessary to make these unique and valuable assets available to all residents of the community. • Maintain and improve a safe, viable, orderly, productive and enhanced environment for all residents of the community. The community should provide for planned and orderly land use and a functional transportation system to serve and connect, but not disrupt, residential areas of the community. Moreover, the community should provide and properly maintain those resources, community facilities, and services essential for the protection of the health, safety and general welfare of individuals (schools, parks and trails) and necessary for the community (water, sewer, streets, city administration, police, and fire protection). • Plan for coordinated, orderly growth and development of extra - territorial areas. Growth patterns in Oak Park Heights will include infill development, redevelopment, and potential outward growth beyond its current boundaries. As part of its land use planning process, the City must anticipate and plan for utility, public service and street extensions. The City is aware that residential and commercial growth will OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 4 L COMMUNITY GOALS soon consume the remaining land area within the community. This goal suggests active cooperation with surrounding cities and townships as well as Washington County to assure that the City and rural areas will not have land use conflict. Long range joint land use and annexation planning would be in the interest of the City and its neighboring communities. Orderly annexation agreements would provide for orderly growth and development, establish joint planning and regulation of land use, and avoid costly annexation confrontations for the City and neighboring jurisdictions. • Ensure that the Comprehensive Plan promotes a responsible fiscal balance (revenue versus service costs) on an ongoing basis. The Policy Plan of the Comprehensive Plan is intended to outline the community's desires and set forth guidelines for how these desires are to be achieved. These issues must be continually assessed in terms of value compared to costs incurred by the City for implementation. Indicators of value include, but are not limited to, potential revenue, image and enhancement, and the common good of the Oak Park Heights community. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 5 COMMUNITY GOALS OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 6 L � ! General Goals and Policies Natural Environment NATURAL ENVIRONMENT GOALS/ POLICIES The natural environment is of major importance to Oak Park Heights and the surrounding area. The proper utilization and preservation of natural resources as valuable community amenities, or conversely, as natural barriers which present development concerns, becomes the focus for which guidance by the following goals and policies are prescribed. GOALS A. Ensure that community development is compatible with features of the natural environment and is accommodated without destroying environmental features and natural amenities. B. Encourage creative subdivision design to insure the protection and enhancement of those portions of the community containing irregular physical features such as rivers, wetlands, vegetation and poor soils. Utilize special planning, design and construction techniques where necessary to accommodate development and to overcome both immediate and long term environmental obstacles. C. Provide protection for wooded areas, natural wildlife habitats, floodplains, storm drainage areas, and wetlands to insure against loss of a significant community amenities. D. Protect ground water and soils from contamination and pollution resulting from urban or agricultural uses and correct problems where necessary. E. Recognize limiting soil features and significant shapes with respect to urban development stability. F. Preserve and protect the quality of Oak Park Heights natural vegetation against disease and unnecessary destruction. G. Require screening and landscape plantings in association with all new projects or improvements to existing property which complements the architectural character of built features, blends the structural and natural environments, and which protects adjacent properties from adverse effects of proposed development. H. Ensure that land uses adjacent to industrial activities and Highway 36 are compatible with anticipated noise levels. 1. New and existing residential, commercial and industrial development must have equal access to sunlight for solar energy systems. Solar access must be provided or maintained for existing development to the extent possible. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 7 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT GOALS/ POLICIES POLICIES General 1. All activities in naturally or environmentally sensitive areas shall conform to local and state regulations. 2. Regulations shall be formulated and /or updated, and enforced in a fair and consistent manner to ensure the proper protection of identified natural resources within the municipal boundary and the surrounding jurisdiction area. 3. New development and the expansion of existing activities shall be restricted and regulated where environmental damage may result. 4. Where appropriate, environmentally sensitive areas shall be acquired or publicly controlled. River/Wetland Development 1. Major unique water features (rivers, wetlands, and reservoirs) having functional and aesthetic value should be preserved and protected as perpetual community assets through purchase, dedication, protective or scenic easements, and /or the clustering of development to avoid encroachment and destruction of such features. 2. Integrate new development to the natural characteristics of the land to enhance the development through the preservation of attractive natural amenities (i.e., rivers, wetlands, wooded areas, slopes, etc.). 3. When public improvements such as roadways, utilities and parks impact wetlands, the impact should be minimized and /or mitigated by offsetting wetland replacements. 4. The public value of wetlands, ponds and rivers should be determined based upon their function. Consideration of water quality, shoreland protection, ground water recharge, flood and storm water retention, public recreation and education are some of the function values. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 8 L NATURAL ENVIRONMENT GOALS/ POLICIES Soils /Slopes 1. In areas of soils that have limitations for development, soil testing shall be performed to identify the soil correction measures necessary to insure safe and quality construction. 2. Drain the around building foundations and streets will be required in soil areas characterized by moisture retention, high water tables, or perched water tables. 3. Erosion control plans shall be required for all site grading to prevent erosion, dust, and soil sedimentation. 4. Restrict or prohibit development on slopes exceeding 12 percent. In instances where development on steep slopes is permitted, grading and erosion control plans must be provided which prevent erosion, dust, and soil sedimentation. Vegetation 1. To the extent possible, existing stands of mature trees shall be preserved and protected from future development. 2. Programs designed to protect trees which are susceptible to disease shall be promoted. 3. The location, type and condition of existing vegetation shall be indicated in all development requests, and preservation of existing trees shall be accomplished, wherever feasible. 4. New developments within the City shall be required to plant new trees, particularly in areas where existing vegetation is removed. 5. Tree planting programs and plans shall be formulated and an implementation effort pursued. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 9 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT GOALS/ POLICIES Storm Water Management/Floodplain/Wetland 1. Encourage the preservation, restriction and enhancement of shoreland and wetland environments in their natural state. Where desirable and practical, promote development which complements these features and which is in conformance with federal, state, and local regulations. 2. Ensure property management of storm water runoff in all areas of the community so that pre - development surface drainage flow rates are not exceeded after development and do not jeopardize the watershed district. 3. Natural drainage patterns shall be preserved wherever feasible. 4. Development on or alteration of natural drainage system components shall be prohibited where possible so that storm water can be adequately managed without construction of storm sewers. 5. Establish a storm water drainage policy that utilizes natural ponding areas and provides City procedures for the acquisition or dedication of natural areas. 6. Require all new development to manage all on -site storm water generation to insure that no negative impact will occur with regard to downstream flooding or water quality. 7. Require grading and drainage plans as part of any new subdivision, commercial development, or industrial development. These plans must illustrate proposed drainage patterns, plans for on -site storm water retention, and erosion control. 8. Where feasible for park and recreational use, require dedication of environmentally sensitive areas. Air and Noise Pollution 1. State and federal pollution regulations shall be incorporated into local policy when appropriate. 2. In areas of potential noise or air pollution, mitigating design approaches shall be utilized to reduce possible problems. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 10 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT GOALS/ POLICIES 3. Programs shall be initiated, promoted, and supported which are aimed at reducing air and noise pollution. Recycling /Solid Waste 1. Recycling programs which conserve natural resources shall be continued and promoted. 2. Oak Park Heights shall encourage waste reduction /separation practices to improve solid waste management. 3. Residential and commercial generators of solid waste shall be encouraged to act voluntarily to evaluate their use of energy and raw materials and to reduce consumption where technically and economically feasible. Solar Access 1. Provide solar access to as many parcels of land as practical in the community so that solar energy systems can be used to supplement or replace conventional energy sources. 2. Maintain solar access for existing development to the extent possible. 3. Adopt policies and regulations that provide for a minimum degree of solar access protection by establishing the amount of solar access to be protected, permissible levels of shading by structures and vegetation, and the methods to be used to ensure solar access to the extent possible. 4. Establish land use regulations for the protection of solar access to roof tops and south walls of buildings in all new low density residential developments, and to roof tops for other residential uses, as well as commercial, industrial and institutional uses. 5. Consider both Winter and Summer solar energy system use in developing land use regulations for protecting solar access. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 11 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT GOALS/ POLICIES OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 12 L __ i w '4 ` General Goals and Policies Land Use LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES GOALS Land use goals create a vehicle by which the community can determine, organize and define the character and intensity of building activity in Oak Park Heights. The goals will affect both the existing and desired patterns of development. In coordination with Oak Park Heights land use goals, polices which are established will reflect comprehensive, but gradual improvements. The policies will guide proposed land use changes through the incremental stages planned for the community. A. Develop a cohesive land use pattern which ensures compatibility and functional relationships among activities. B. Provide a diversification of land uses, including commercial and industrial development as well as a variety of residential patterns. C. Balance land use allocations and associated tax base with economic market demands. Ensure that available land is developed with proper consideration for such demands. D. Prevent over - intensification of land use development, in other words, development which is not accompanied by a sufficient level of supportive services and facilities (utilities, parking, access, etc.). E. Provide safe, healthy, attractive and high quality life cycle residential environments which offer a broad and balanced choice of low, medium and non - concentrated high density housing types. F. Ensure that religious facilities, schools, and other institutional uses are compatible and complementary to neighboring uses. G. Encourage a diversity of housing styles and uses, with a wide variety of price ranges to provide for homeowners of varying ages, household sizes, and economic level. H. Maintain and where necessary, strengthen and enhance the character of individual neighborhoods. I. Provide sufficient housing in terms of cost, size, type, and style to meet the needs of all segments of the population, notably groups with specialized housing needs, such as empty nesters or senior citizens. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 13 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES J. Encourage a creative approach to the use of land and related residential development. K. Promote convenient, attractive, quality and accessible commercial development within Oak Park Heights. L. Promote attractive and functional commercial and industrial property as a means of improving community image. M. Maintain and improve the commercial, retail service focal points for the community. N. Maintain a sound industrial base for the City. O. Promote attractive, high quality residential housing as a means of improving community image. P. Promote the infill of development in the existing industrially zoned areas of the City. Q. Establish new industrial development opportunities in appropriate areas and which demonstrate high quality and innovative design. R. Promote business ark development in p p appropriate locations. Said business parks shall encourage light industrial uses, offices and commercial uses in an integrated design. S. Plan for and encourage development on a City -wide and project basis, which facilitates energy resource conservation, yet maintains compatibility and relationships of uses. T. Actively promote the economic growth and development of the community as a partner and in cooperation with the private sector. U. Promote the continued development of high quality, high value industries that enhance the City's economy through an improved tax base and expanded employment base within Oak Park Heights. V. Promote redevelopment efforts to acquire and redevelop substandard and /or non- conforming buildings and properties in conformance with the established district plans. 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 14 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES W. The preservation, protection and continued use of areas, buildings, structures and other objects that have historic, aesthetic or community values is a benefit to the City of Oak Park Heights. POLICIES General 1. Relate land use development to transportation needs, desired development and community goals. 2. Ensure that intensification of land use activity and development is accompanied by sufficient corresponding increases in related supportive and service facilities such as parks, off - street parking, fire and police protection, etc. 3. Consider the removal of land from the tax rolls only when it can be clearly demonstrated that such removal is in the public interest. 4. Property values shall be protected through the harmonious relationship of land uses, streets and natural features and the maintenance of properties. 5. Public and institutional land uses and other non -tax paying uses shall be selectively located or discouraged from being located in areas highly suitable for commercial and other income producing properties, unless they serve to attract and enhance development potential. 6. Accomplish transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses in an orderly fashion which does not create a negative (economic, social or physical) impact on adjoining developments. 7. Protect residential neighborhoods from penetration by through traffic on local streets. Where through traffic problems are identified, correct such problems as opportunities arise, especially through the improvement of the state aid street system. 8. The attractiveness of the community shall be enhanced through a continuing program of civic beautification; tree planting; maintenance of property, buildings, and streets; stepped up code enforcement; and other measures which will promote an aesthetically pleasing environment. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 15 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES . 9. Whenever possible, the impact of physical barriers is to be reduced to increase relationships between segregated areas and reinforce continuity and a sense of community. 10. Combine and integrate varying types of land use when compatible and complementary and when increased efficiency and land utilization can be achieved using tools such as planned unit development. 11. Renewal, replacement and redevelopment of substandard and incompatible development is to be accomplished through public action and private means. 12. High intensity commercial and service centers are to be supported by high density and medium density housing in close proximity. 13. Discourage "leap frog" urban development in Oak Park Heights by requiring all new development to be contiguous to existing City services and development. 14. Discourage new development of any kind which does not have direct property access onto a paved roadway and onto roadways which are not capable of accommodating the associated traffic increases due to factors such as construction, alignment, orientation, surfacing, width, site lines, state of repair or joint jurisdiction. 15. When new or expected development meets or exceeds agreed thresholds, initiate impact studies or cost analysis for public service improvements such as utility extensions or upgrading, fire and police protection, waste water treatment allocations, roadway network connections /improvements, recreation system elements, and schools. 16. Safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and structures that reflect elements of the City's cultural, political, economic, visual or architectural history; evaluate and establish historic districts. 17. Promote the preservation and continued use of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare of the people of Oak Park Heights. 18. Foster community identity and civic pride by protecting historical area, structures or accomplishments of the past. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 16 L � LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES Land Use Compatibility 1. Once established, geographic land use designations and related zoning classifications shall be changed only when it can be demonstrated that such modifications are in the best interest of the community on a long range perspective and such changes will maintain land use compatibility and pre- determined goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan. 2. Transitions between distinctly differing types of land uses shall be accomplished in an orderly fashion which does not create a negative (economic, social or physical) impact on adjoining properties. 3. Incompatible land uses shall be properly regulated and related so that conflicts are minimized through the use of physical barriers, distances, landscaping, and /or proper physical orientation of lots and buildings. 4. Whenever possible, the impact of physical barriers shall be reduced to increase relationships between segregated areas and reinforce continuity and a sense of community. 5. Renewal, replacement and redevelopment of substandard and grossly incompatible development shall be accomplished through public action and private means. 6. Combine and integrate varying types of land use when compatible and complementary and when increased efficiency and land utilization can be achieved. 7. Allow institutional facilities within zoning districts and neighborhoods in which they minimize their impact on the surrounding uses. 8. Require institutional facilities to identify the positive and negative impacts and provide compatibility with adjacent uses. Residential - General 1. Ensure that all new housing, including rental housing and housing for persons of low and moderate income, adheres to the highest possible standards of planning, design and construction. 2. Residential neighborhoods shall be protected from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible higher use or density types by adequate buffering and separation from other residential as well as non - residential use categories. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 17 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES 3. Housing which positively contributes to the community's tax base shall be pursued. Developments which will not contribute to a progressive revenue /service cost ratio shall be avoided. 4. Avoid high concentrations of multiple family dwellings and apartments in the City. Locate such housing within appropriately designated zoning districts and in proximity to areas which offer a wide range of existing supportive services, commercial and recreational facilities. 5. Provide high density development with reasonable, but not necessarily direct, access to major thoroughfares. 6. Preserve and maintain the low density character of existing residential neighborhoods. 7. Maintain a balance in the types and quantities of housing units available throughout the City, emphasizing larger single family units /lots, low to medium density multiple family and senior housing developments to balance with existing residential development. 8. Maintain a high quality, life cycle residential environment throughout the City which emphasizes physically coordinated neighborhoods which incorporate all types, sizes and styles of dwellings. 9. Protect residential development from adverse environmental impacts, including noise, air, and visual pollution. New residential development shall be discouraged in areas where noise and /or air pollution exceed accepted standards and the negative impacts are not correctable by construction, site planning or other techniques. 10. Protect low density residential neighborhoods from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible higher use or density types and by adequate buffering and separation from other residential as well as non - residential use categories. 11. Prohibit commercial development within designated residential areas (neighborhood commercial uses should be viewed as unnecessary when the proximity of the neighborhoods to other commercial areas is adequate). 12. Provide sufficient housing options to meet the needs of all segments of the population, including the handicapped through life cycle housing. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 18 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES 13. Encourage and promote adequate living space and fully utilized housing through the provision of a range of choices among housing types and options. 14. Within residential areas, outside storage is to be minimized and in those instances when it is acceptable, it shall be conducted in an orderly; confined and limited fashion. 15. Accessory buildings within urban areas shall be of a compatible design and size to maintain a residential neighborhood character. Such buildings shall be limited to residential use related activities. 16. Residential neighborhoods shall be adequately and appropriately landscaped according to community requirements as may be amended. 17. Provide for periodic review, update and enforcement of zoning and subdivision standards to ensure high standards of planning and design. Residential - Development Policies 1. Existing, undeveloped, single family residential land shall be developed in a manner responsive to determined market needs and compatible with surrounding development. 2. Encourage design and planning innovations in housing units and land development. 3. Encourage innovation in subdivision design and housing development through the use of devices such as the cluster and planned unit development concepts. 4. Recognize the development of patio homes, townhouses, quadraminiums and condominiums to supplement existing conventional single family homes, and apartments, giving due consideration to local market demands. 5. Housing styles and development techniques which conserve land and increase efficiency are to be encouraged, provided desired densities can be maintained. 6. The City should provide housing opportunities which attract persons of all ages and income levels and which allows them the ability to maintain residence within Oak Park Heights throughout the various stages of their lives. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 19 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES 7. Rental housing standards applicable to existing and new units are to be upgraded to require adequate sound proofing, increased energy conservation and provisions for social and recreational facilities. 8. High density housing is not to be utilized specifically as a buffer or viewed as being capable of absorbing negative impacts. 9. Develop a mix of housing types in a manner consistent with the City's Land Use Plan. Commercial 1. Promote the Highway 36 corridor and its corresponding intersections with Osgood Avenue, Oak Green Avenue, Norell Avenue and State Highway 5 as the primary focus for commercial development and operations. 2. Promote the development of a Town Center /Central Business District at the southwest intersection of Highway 36 and Oakgreen Avenue. 3. Develop commercial and service centers as cohesive, highly interrelated units with adequate off - street parking. 4. Ensure that services and commercial uses are adequately and appropriately landscaped according to community requirements as may be amended. 5. Ensure that all service and commercial uses are adequately screened or buffered from any adjacent residential development. 6. Strongly discourage spot or uncoordinated commercial development and encourage a unified and pre - planned development pattern. 7. Commercial and service areas should provide safe and convenient pedestrian movement, including access for handicapped persons. 8. When possible or when opportunities arise, provide for major street access to service and commercial districts at the periphery of the districts. 9. Encourage and participate in private efforts to achieve commercial development. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 20 LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES 10. Discourage the intrusion of commercial land uses in residential district. When shown to be necessary, commercial uses are to be located only at the intersection of collector or arterial roadways. 11. Enforce ordinances /design guidelines to eliminate the visual pollution created by signs and "franchise" architecture. 12. Signing of commercial service properties shall facilitate identification and business promotion and shall be in strict conformance with City ordinances. "Advertising" type signing shall be totally prohibited. 13. Allow the development of additional neighborhood convenience centers only when there is clear and demonstratable evidence indicating a need for the uses proposed for the center. This evidence shall include, among other related considerations, the delineation of the retail support area and its population, purchasing power of the retail support area by type of goods as well as the proportion which could be reasonably expected to be captured by the uses posed, location of competitive facilities, and anticipated dollar volume per square foot of retail floor area. Industrial 1. Existing industrial uses shall be retained and new industrial development shall be encouraged to locate in existing and proposed industrially zoned areas. 2. In determining future locations for industrial development, the City shall ensure that land use harmony is maintained, servicing capabilities (streets, utilities, etc.) are adequate and not over - extended, and long term development objectives and policies are achieved. 3. Existing industrial uses and new industrial development shall not cause pollutants or contaminants to be emitted into the surrounding environment (including air, soils, ground water, drainageways, sanitary sewer and storm sewer) in excess of state and federal regulations. 4. Industrial areas shall be adequately screened and appropriately landscaped and designed according to City standards. 5. Continue to maintain and expand the City's industrial and commercial tax base to assist in paying for needed services and in reducing tax impact on housing costs. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 21 I LAND USE GOALS /POLICIES 6. Identify industrial activities complementary to existing activities and promote and facilitate the development of such industries in Oak Park Heights. 7. Investigate fiscal incentives to attract new desired types of industries to Oak Park Heights. 8. Promote the type of industrial development which maximizes the return on City investments in public facilities and services. 9. Give due consideration to all potential impacts on services and facility demands (i.e., traffic generation, sewer and water demands, etc.) of any proposed industrial development. 10. Prohibit penetration of residential neighborhoods by traffic generated by industrial activity. 11. Signing within industrial areas shall facilitate ready business identification. Said signing shall be limited and comply with City Code. "Advertising" type signing shall be prohibited. 12. Encourage site upkeep and maintenance through code enforcement to promote a positive industrial and commercial image for Oak Park Heights. 13. Promote high quality development through the enforcement of the City's zoning performance standards. 14. Encourage industrial site designs that integrate the facility with natural features of the land and provide an aesthetically attractive appearance. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 22 i General Goals and Policies Transportation TRANSPORTATION GOALS /POLICIES Transportation is a system comprised of differing modes which respond to the access needs of the community. Full attention is required of all modes within the system to insure requirements a balanced operation as well as a system which effectively responds to the re q of all users. Factors affecting transportation are the placement and type of land uses and activities which generate service needs. Within the context of the above considerations, the following goals and policies are provided for transportation planning and development in the City. GOALS A. Develop a system of priorities for improving the various elements of the transportation system. B. Approach transportation in a comprehensive manner, giving attention to all modes and related facilities. C. Provide for safe and convenient movement of persons and vehicles by all traffic modes and routes. • D. Establish a street system and necessary traffic control devices for the efficient movement of people and goods. E. Establish a street system which is sensitive to neighborhoods and activity areas. F. Ensure that all public and private streets are constructed with the highest possible standards for safety and durability. G. Install traffic control devices as warranted to provide for the safety and well being of users and neighbors of street systems in Oak Park Heights. H. Provide sufficient off - street parking and loading facilities to meet the demands of all types of land uses. I. Ensure the provision of pedestrian and bicycle facilities which are consistent with the safe and convenient circulation needs of the pedestrian and the bicyclist. J. Develop a City trail system that minimizes potential conflicts between trail users and motor vehicles and ensures the safety of trail users. K. Support the development of mass transit systems and other such measures which will minimize the need for individual automobile travel. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 23 I TRANSPORTATION GOALS /POLICIES L. New development and redevelopment in Oak Park Heights will avoid conflicts with all airport, heliport, or seaplane surface water areas, and shall be within the guidelines of regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration, Minnesota Department of Transportation, and Metropolitan Council Aviation Chapter of the Regional Blueprint. POLICIES General 1. Treat all modes of transportation and related facilities as one system to be coordinated and related on a comprehensive basis. 2. Plan transportation facilities to function in a manner compatible with adjacent land use. In those instances where the function of a transportation facility has changed over time to become incompatible with adjacent land use, establish a program to eliminate this incompatibility. 3. Design transportation facilities to conserve natural resources and other existing man -made facilities and minimize the total need for ongoing public investment. 4. Prepare and annually update a Capital Improvement Program for transportation facilities. 5. Coordinate transportation planning and implementation with neighboring and affected jurisdictions. 6. Work with Washington County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to discuss the ways and means by which their long term transportation planning goals can be met to satisfy both regional and local needs. 7. Focus the transportation system on activity centers within the community and in neighboring communities. 8. Consider the mobility needs of all persons in the planning and development of the transportation system. 9. Provide for early and continuing citizen involvement in transportation planning and implementation projects. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 24 i TRANSPORTATION GOALS /POLICIES 10. Ensure that the highway system complements and facilitates local movements provided by local streets, bicycle trails and pedestrian facilities. Establish and maintain a line of communication with county and state highway officials in order to ensure that planned improvements are consistent with the goals and objectives of the community. 11. Land use controls are to promote combined and /or concentrated types of activities in the high intensity use districts to reduce dependency and requirements for travel and transportation, as well as to provide preferred modes of travel. 12. Prohibit new development of any kind which does not have direct property access onto a paved roadway and onto roadways which are not capable of accommodating the associated traffic increases due to factors such as construction, alignment, orientation, surfacing, width, site lines, state of repair, or joint jurisdiction. 13. Limit the height of all new or redeveloped structures so as not to conflict with air space utilization. Streets and Highways 1. Establish a functional classification system for the street system in Oak Park Heights using the classification system developed by MnDOT. FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF STREETS (Source: Minnesota Department of Transportation) Class Function Provide Access To Principal Arterial Service to major centers of activity, provides Principal arterials continuity to rural arterial system Minor arterials Minor Arterial Service of an intra - community nature, urban Principal arterials concentrations to rural collector roads Collector streets Land Collector Street Local collection and distribution between Land collector streets and arterials, land access Minor arterials to minor generators Local streets Local Streets Service to abutting land Land Higher order systems OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 25 TRANSPORTATION GOALS /POLICIES 2. Minor collectors shall be required in major subdivisions to channel traffic out of the subdivision onto the City's major collector or arterial street system. 3. Relate public signage to the overall system of street function and control. 4. Minimize and limit vehicular access onto all types of arterials ensuring adequate distance between intersections and utilization of appropriate traffic control methods and devices. 5. Eliminate and prevent any on- street parking which conflicts with moving traffic or creates hazards. 6. Relate and phase street improvement to area land development in order to avoid interrupted or inadequate access. 7. Require proper visibility, design and control of all intersections to promote safety. 8. Improve street safety through the appropriate use of street lighting and sign controls. 9. Develop a uniform system and policy regarding public signage which eliminates unnecessary signs and replaces outdated, inappropriate and confusing public signs. 10. Establish and enforce standards and controls for business and advertising signage and lighting in order to prevent driver distraction and potential hazards. 11. Where feasible and practical, establish pedestrian and bicycle trails in conjunction with street and highway improvements. 12. Through traffic is to border and not penetrate residential and service commercial areas. 13. Curb and gutter shall be provided on all urban streets. 14. In those areas where incomplete street facilities exist, action shall be taken to plan, design, and develop a street system which reflects the highest standards and relates land use to transportation needs and policies. Action shall be taken to reserve required rights -of -way to prevent additional costs and difficulties. 15. All traffic safety hazards within the community are to be identified and a program for corrective action is to be formulated and implemented. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 26 L TRANSPORTATION GOALS /POLICIES Parking 1. Minimize and reduce the demand and resulting space requirements for parking through the adequate provision of pedestrian and bicycle facilities and through land use development coordination, such as the concentration and /or consolidation of, for example, higher density housing with proximity to shopping, employment, recreational activities. 2. Ensure that any new development or expansion of existing development includes adequate off - street parking. 3. Develop parking facilities so as to conserve land, promote joint use and minimize conflicts with vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle traffic. 4. Periodically review parking requirements to ensure that required supply is reflective of actual demand. 5. Minimize parking lot access to public streets to the functional minimum. 6. Require and utilize landscaping techniques to eliminate large continuous expanses of pavement, and enhance the aesthetics of parking areas. 7. Provisions for handicapped parking in compliance with state law are to be made in all parking lots. Loading 1. Ensure that all new multiple family, commercial, and industrial developments provide adequate off - street loading facilities. 2. Wherever possible, segregate loading facilities from parking and driveway areas to minimize traffic conflicts. 3. Adequately screen and landscape loading facilities from adjacent properties and public rights -of -way. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 27 I TRANSPORTATION GOALS /POLICIES Pedestrian /Bicycle Trails 1. Promote the goals and policies of the City's Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan. Railroad 1. Improve the future level of safety at railroad /street intersections by installing and maintaining signals. 2. Encourage land and street access development which minimizes the impact of the railroad track and right -of -way as a physical barrier. Mass Transit 1. Cooperate with other governmental jurisdictions and the Metropolitan Council Transit Organization in efforts to create markets and promote transit service in the community. 2. Promote, where economically feasible, transit services and facilities to meet the basic transportation needs of persons (especially the elderly and handicapped) who cannot use automobile transportation. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 28 L a - m1 General Goals and Policies Community Facilities COMMUNITY FACILITIES GOALS /POLICIES. Community facilities include those lands, buildings, attendant services and systems which are provided on a public or semi - public basis in the interest of, or benefit to, the residents of the community. Their importance should not be under - estimated in that they are a necessity for sustaining life within the urban environment and are, therefore, a major determinant of the quality and safety of urban living. The following goals and policies are to serve as guides for the planning, implementation, and maintenance of community facilities. GOALS A. Ensure the provision and maintenance of facilities and services necessary to meet the needs and interests of the community. Location of community facilities should be as centralized as possible and maintain ease of access. B. Plan and provide public facilities and services in a coordinated and economic manner on a basis that is consistent with the nature of development within the community. C. Minimize costs and undue further investment for public utilities by encouraging full utilization of existing and available service system elements. D. Ensure adequate distribution and provide for safe, easy access to all facilities and services within the community. E. Coordinate facilities and services on a joint use basis between governmental units. F. Public systems such as storm drainage, water supply and sanitary sewer along with their private extensions should be designed in a comprehensive manner to utilize fully the natural environment conditions minimizing development cost. G. Provide for a logical land use system consistent with community goals and objectives which contributes positively to the overall energy conservation efforts in the Metropolitan area. H. Through a Capital Improvement Program, plan and budget for public service improvements, such as utility extensions or upgrading, fire and police protection, roadway network connections/ improvements, recreation system elements, and schools as dictated by new or anticipated development. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 29 COMMUNITY FACILITIES GOALS /POLICIES POLICIES Public Utilities 1. Prepare and annually update a Capital Improvement Program for all public utilities. 2. Anticipate and, to a limited extent, control demand for urban services to facilitate orderly, fiscally responsible extension of service systems. 3. Prohibit extension of service to properties outside the corporate limits without an agreement as to the annexation of that property. 4. Discourage the expansion of public sewer services into areas: a. Not contiguous to existing development/service areas. b. Areas not within the current limits of the service boundary. C. When a burden is placed upon the City to expand the urban service area prematurely. 5. Locate easements for utility systems according to uniform standards, providing for ease of access for maintenance and repair and minimal disruption of other activities or area. 6. Constantly monitor and maintain all utility systems to assure a safe and high quality standard of service on an ongoing basis. 7. Minimize the impact of required utility facilities and services upon surrounding land uses. 8. Encourage and promote underground installation of all new utility services and when economically feasible, the conversion of existing overhead systems to underground. 9. Cooperation and coordination between governmental units shall be promoted and encouraged in the provision of public utilities and services. 10. Runoff shall be managed to protect the ground water recharge areas. 11. Protect and preserve soil types associated with drainageways in order to channel flowage and control erosion. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 30 COMMUNITY FACILITIES GOALS /POLICIES 12. Preserve natural drainage to the extent possible in order to minimize storm sewer costs. 13. Utilize the Comprehensive Stormwater Drainage Plan that plans for intermediate ponding areas and provides municipal procedures for the acquisition or dedication of areas so designated. Governmental Buildings and Facilities 1. Promote and encourage cooperation and coordination between governmental units in the provision of public facilities and services. 2. Ensure the full utilization of investments in public facilities and services prior to making new public investments. 3. Locate public facilities and services so as to offer ease of access and minimal response time. 4. Develop, improve and maintain all public facilities according to the highest adopted standards of design and performance to serve as examples for private development. 5. Design and maintain all public buildings to be resistant to person and property crime opportunity while maximizing public and City usability. 6. Adequately screen, landscape and buffer public facilities in order to minimize their impact on surrounding uses and enhance the community and area in which they are located. 7. Public facilities shall be designed to enhance community identity and recognition. Parks and Open Space 1. Promote the completion of individual park plans to address the recreational issues, needs and opportunities within each of the City's parks. Formulate a plan for implementation of such facilities. 2. Classify and make appropriate improvements to the park and open space system. Utilize the following types of parks where possible: OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 31 COMMUNITY FACILITIES GOALS /POLICIES a. Community Parks: These parks would provide facilities for more intensive recreational activities, such as tennis courts, ballfields, swimming pools, and ice skating rinks. b. Neighborhood Parks: These parks could be much smaller in size than the community parks, and only provide limited recreational offerings for children such as tot lots with small climbing apparatus; or walking trails with park benches and picnic areas oriented towards adult -type recreation. C. Passive /Preservation Parks: These parks would be set in natural areas of the community where preservation of the natural environment would be the primary emphasis. Hiking trails, wildlife sanctuaries and picnic facilities would be among the primary uses of such a park facility, which in turn would benefit the natural wildlife of the area and natural enthusiasts. 3. Within each recreation system classification, gauge capital improvements made to individual facilities (e.g., neighborhood parks) on the basis of relative need for developed park facilities. 4. Program recreation open space improvements in accordance with a Capital Improvement Program, updated on an annual basis. 5. Pursue new recreation sites in association with new residential subdivisions which will serve a broad range of age groups and activities. 6. Design and maintain parks with proper lighting, landscaping, shelter design, etc., to ensure a high degree of public and property safety. 7. Ensure continual citizen participation in the planning, development and operation of recreational open space. 8. Ensure the provision of an appropriate balance between active, passive, and cultural recreational areas and activities, tailored to the needs of the total population throughout the community. 9. Provide recreational facilities and year round program of activities suited to the varied recreational needs of all age groups within the community. 10. Provide safe and convenient pedestrian and bicycle access to recreational facilities. 11. Acquire and reserve sufficient park and open space land to fulfill the needs of the present and projected future population of the community. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 32 COMMUNITY FACILITIES GOALS /POLICIES, 12. Ensure the provision of adequate parking to serve major park and recreational facilities. 13. Maintain cooperative agreements with the school district for provision of recreational open space areas, athletic programs, and services. 14. Park and open space facilities should be planned and developed in coordination with similar services of surrounding communities. Police and Fire Service 1. Promote the increased police protection of City residents as needed to prevent or eliminate physical, social and other problems and generally maintain peace and order in the community. 2. Study the need for a new fire station within the existing and potentially expanding fire service area. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 33 COMMUNITY FACILITIES GOALS /POLICIES OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 34 Policies General Goals and Administration ADMINISTRATIVE GOALS /POLICIES Implementation of the Comprehensive Plan will require specific administrative /operation actions on the part of the City in order to accomplish development and possible future redevelopment. Goals and policies are established for general administration, tax increment, property acquisition, relocation, land disposition, codes and ordinances, annexation and public participation. These are all established to provide a clear understanding of how development and redevelopment will be achieved in Oak Park Heights. The following text provides statements of the administration goals and policies. GOALS A. Ensure that all development that occurs in the City is in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan. However, amend the Comprehensive Plan and related ordinances as necessary to reflect changing community needs and priorities. B. Existing and established businesses within the City are to be recognized and their needs and interests are to be part of a comprehensive economic development effort. C. Preserve and promote local employment opportunities within the City of Oak Park Heights. D. Encourage redevelopment and /or restoration of deteriorated properties within the City. E. Increase Oak Park Heights' per capita tax capacity by diversifying the tax base. F. Capitalize on existing City and area assets and amenities as a means of enhancing the community's economic viability. G. Support economic development programs and projects which maintain and improve Oak Park Heights' environmental quality. H. The City may selectively use tax increment financing (TIF) as a tool to retain existing businesses and jobs and to assist in attracting new viable business and jobs to the community. I. In order to facilitate the desired type and form of development, Oak Park Heights may choose to acquire land and implement tax increment financing programs. The acquisition of land and the possible use of the tax increment process is intended to achieve the following goals: OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 35 ADMINISTRATIVE GOALS /POLICIES a. Elimination of substandard, hazardous, and obsolete buildings within designated community development project areas. b. Elimination of blight and negative environmental influences. C. Assembly of land into parcels which are functionally adaptable in shape and size to accommodate desired development which responds to needs and goals of the community. d. Assembly of land parcels which are required to implement traffic circulation and parking improvements required for the efficient functional operation of the area. POLICIES General 1. Periodically review the Comprehensive Plan on a formal basis to ensure that it is current and reflective of the community's interest and changing needs. 2. Ensure that the Comprehensive Plan including long term and interim policies promotes a responsible fiscal balance (revenue versus service costs) on an ongoing basis. 3. Monitor federal and state programs for the possibility of assisting the City with implementing the Comprehensive Plan and meeting the needs of the community. 4. Monitor legislative changes and new requirements in ordinance and City control responsibilities, notably in the area of environmental protection and development management authority. 5. Prepare and annually update a Capital Improvement Program for the management, programming and budgeting of capital needs. 6. Ensure that development proposals are adequately considered to determine all economic, physical, social and service demand implications and that sufficient time is provided for thorough analysis and decision - making. 7. Ensure that analysis and basis for decision - making on development proposals is thoroughly substantiated and documented. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 36 ADMINISTRATIVE GOALS /POLICIES 8. Utilize special assessments and /or special taxing districts in assigning costs for public improvements to benefitting parties. 9. Require land dedication, easements and other such requirements at time of subdivision and /or development to insure the physical capability for necessary public/semi- public utilities and improvements. 10. Maintain communication and promote continued coordination between City and neighboring and related governmental jurisdictions. 11. Continue to support a body or group which actively makes contacts with new development interests and follow up and assist where possible in attracting them to the community. 12. Annually review and analyze the City's financial position and debt service to ensure proper fiscal programming and management. Codes and Ordinances Zonina 1. The provisions of the Zoning Ordinance shall be periodically reviewed and updated to ensure a response to the changing needs of development and redevelopment areas. 2. Until area plans are established and adopted, zoning of the area will remain as currently established and updated on a parcel by parcel request basis. 3. A property owner may initiate and assume the costs of a rezoning consideration on the basis of zoning district classification changes. 4. Approval of rezoning within development and redevelopment areas shall be contingent upon the proposed district and allowable uses conforming to the Comprehensive Plan and applicable area plans. Subdivision 1. The provisions of the Subdivision Ordinance shall be annually reviewed and updated to ensure a response to the changing needs of development and redevelopment areas. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 37 ADMINISTRATIVE GOALS /POLICIES Development 1. Any development or expansion of buildings or facilities shall result in compliance with current Ordinance standards. 2. Compliance may, upon City Council approval, be phased over a limited time period pursuant to an established schedule. If phasing is to occur, a security deposit shall be posted by the developer /property owner to insure compliance with Ordinance standards. 3. The terms and conditions of major project/development approvals should require the completion of a contract agreement, performance bond, or a security deposit to be provided by the developer /property owner. Desian Guidelines /Performance Standards 1. Ordinances, including sign regulations, shall be updated and enforced to improve the quality and identity of the City. 2. Development proposals or major remodelings shall follow the established design guidelines. • 3. Oak Park Heights shall contribute to the realization of an improved image for the community through the programing of improvements to its public and institutional property and the public right -of -way in conformance to established design guidelines. 4. Design guideline regulations shall be monitored and updated to ensure a response to the changing needs of the project area and improved techniques and standards of design excellence. Public Participation 1. Establish a structure and process for the direct involvement and input of area residents, business persons and owners in the planning and implementation of development or redevelopment projects in the City. 2. Prior to public hearings, hold informal meetings with project area residents, business persons, and property owners on a neighborhood or sub -unit basis to inform them of area plans and recommendations. 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 38 ADMINISTRATIVE GOALS /POLICIES, 3. Utilize a City newsletter on a continuing basis to keep the general citizenry informed and updated on plans and accomplishments in Oak Park Heights. 4. Make use of public media, notably area newspapers, as a means to keep citizens informed of all development and /or redevelopment projects. Industrial /Commercial Promotion 1. The City should encourage leadership from the business community for economic development. 2. Release news stories to local newspapers and applicable real estate periodicals concerning Oak Park Heights planning and development objectives and successes. 3. Develop an accessible data base of Oak Park Heights development information for dissemination to prospective developers. 4. Work with businesses presently existing in the City on plans and programs for expansion and enhancement and schedule regular visits to insure business retention and growth in Oak Park Heights. 5. Identify and promote economic development which makes full use of recreational market opportunities which result from the area's natural amenities. 6. Identify and promote economic development which takes full advantage of market opportunities afforded by the major transportation corridors such as Highway 36 and 95. 7. The City guidelines for public investment should be supportive of environmental quality as well as economic development. Tax Increment Financing 1. Use of TIF will be limited to those projects which meet the following priorities: a. The project removes, prevents or reduces blight, thereby protecting property values. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 39 ADMINISTRATIVE GOALS /POLICIES b. The use of tax increment helps attract and retain stable companies which provide employment and tax base. C. The tax increment financing will be used to eliminate inconsistent land use designation and zoning. d. The public benefit of the improvements is clearly demonstrated. e. The project is not financially feasible without tax increment assistance. 2. TIF funding for necessary public improvements related to new or expanding business or industry, where the costs of those improvements are considered extraordinary, will be considered. 3. TIF funding will be used in accord with the most current laws and public policy. Annexation Policies 1. The City, in planning for future land use, transportation /community facilities or utility extensions, may include areas not within its municipal boundaries. This planning is done in anticipation of demand for services to accommodate future urban growth. 2. The City will continue to work with neighboring communities for sharing of necessary services and City jurisdiction issues. 3. The City shall plan its utility, service and street extensions to accommodate long term growth and expansion in the community. 4. The City will work to achieve cooperation in annexation requests by developing orderly annexation agreements with Baytown Township and in working with Lake Elmo. 5. The orderly annexation agreements will identify boundaries and target years for areas eligible for orderly annexation. o f OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE POLICY PLAN 40 L COMPREHENSIVE PLAN r CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS Planning Tactics Inventory Policy Plan Development Framework Implementation 1998 NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED CONSULTANTS INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS Pace Introduction......................................................... ............................... 1 ConceptPlan ...................................................... ............................... 3 Introduction.............................................. ............................... 3 Conceptual Elements ............................... ............................... 3 Concept and Staging Plan ....................... ............................... 9 LandUse Plan .................................................... ............................... 13 Introduction.............................................. ............................... 13 Basis of the Community Plan ................... ............................... 13 Projected Growth ..................................... ............................... 14 Annexation............................................... ............................... 15 Land Use Compatibility ............................ ............................... 17 Historic Preservation ................................ ............................... 18 Solar Access Protection ........................... ............................... 18 Residential............................................... ............................... 19 Housing.................................................... ............................... 19 Commercial................................................ ......................... 28 Industrial . . .. .. 31 Institutional............................................... ............................... 33 Park Land /Open Space ............................ ............................... 33 Transportation Plan ............................................. ............................... 37 Introduction............................................... ............................... 37 Functional Classification System .............. ............................... 37 St. Croix River Crossing ........................... ............................... 40 Street Reconstruction Program ................ ............................... 40 Roadway Improvements /Maintenance ..... ............................... 40 Pedestrian /Bicycle Facilities .................... ............................... 41 RailFacilities ............................................ ............................... 42 Airports /Aviation ....................................... ............................... 42 Public Transit Service .............................. ............................... 42 Community Facilities Plan ................................... ............................... 47 Introduction.............................................. ............................... 47 Public Utilities .......................................... ............................... 47 Sanitary Sewer .......................................... ............................... 48 StormSewer .............................................. ............................... 49 Government Facilities and Buildings ......... ............................... 49 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK i TABLE OF CONTENTS Page AdministrationPlan ............................................... ............................... 53 Introduction................................................. ............................... 53 Governing................................................... ............................... 53 Neighborhood Planning Districts ........................ ............................... 57 Introduction.............................................. ............................... 57 PlanningDistrict 1 .................................... ............................... 63 Planning District 2 .................................... ............................... 65 Planning District 3 .................................... ............................... 67 PlanningDistrict 4 ..................................... ............................... 69 PlanningDistrict 5 .................................... ............................... 73 PlanningDistrict 6 .................................... ............................... 79 PlanningDistrict 7 .................................... ............................... 83 Planning District 8 .................................... ............................... 87 Planning District 9 .................................... ............................... 89 Planning District 10 .................................. ............................... 93 Planning District 11 .................................. ............................... 95 PlanningDistrict 12 .................................. ............................... 97 Planning District 13 .................................. ............................... 99 Planning District 14 .................................. ............................... 101 Planning District 15 ................................... ............................... 103 Planning District 16 ................................... ............................... 105 Planning District 17 ................................... ............................... 107 Planning District 18 ................................... ............................... 109 Planning District 19 ................................... ............................... 111 LIST OF MAPS: ConceptPlan ...................................................... ............................... 11 Valley Senior Services Alliance Concept Plan ... ............................... 23 Proposed Land Use Plan .................................... ............................... 35 TransportationPlan ............................................. ............................... 45 Planning District Boundaries ............................... ............................... 59 PlanningDistrict 1 ................................................ ............................... 62 PlanningDistrict 2 ................................................ ............................... 64 PlanningDistrict 3 ................................................ ............................... 66 PlanningDistrict 4 ................................................ ............................... 68 Planning District 4 Frontage Road Plan ............... ............................... 70 • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK I TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Planning District 4 Frontage Road Plan ............... ............................... 71 PlanningDistrict 5 ................................................ ............................... 72 Planning District 5 Realignment of Frontage Road Plan .................... 75 Planning District 5 Highway 36 /Oakgreen ........... ............................... 76 PlanningDistrict 6 ................................................ ............................... 78 Planning District 6 57th Street Extension ............ ............................... 80 PlanningDistrict 7 ................................................ ............................... 82 Planning District 7 Frontage Road Plan ............... ............................... 84 PlanningDistrict 8 ................................................ ............................... 86 PlanningDistrict 9 ................................................ ............................... 88 PlanningDistrict 10 .............................................. ............................... 92 PlanningDistrict 11 .............................................. ............................... 94 PlanningDistrict 12 .............................................. ............................... 96 Planning District 13 .............................................. ............................... 98 Planning District 14 .............................................. ............................... 100 PlanningDistrict 15 .............................................. ............................... 102 Planning District 16 .............................................. ............................... 104 Planning District 17 .............................................. ............................... 106 Planning District 18 108 Planning District 19 .............................................. ............................... 110 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK Introduction f7.. INTRODUCTION The basic intent of the comprehensive planning process is to provide a well- founded and coordinated decision - making framework to guide both public and private development and community improvement and change. In this regard, this report represents the Development Framework for the City of Oak Park Heights. The plan is based upon community issues and desired end results which have been identified in determining community goals and policies. The Development Framework, in combination with the Policy Plan, assists City policy makers in daily decision - making. Since maps and plans in the Comprehensive Plan may be amended as time goes on, reliance on a land use map for future guidance may make for difficult decisions. However, the relative consistency of community goals and policies ties the land use activities together over the long term. The Development Framework is the basic, general plan for the community. It establishes the general parameters, issues, and overall goals which are to be achieved. It further defines and establishes direction for the basic elements which comprise and influence the community. Programming of development regulations and improvements is based upon the Development Framework. Once these elements of the comprehensive planning process have been completed, ordinances and programs should be revised so as to bring about the plans and desired results. The arrangement of this section includes overall concept plan for the City and categorical plans for natural environment, land use, transportation, community facilities, and administration. These sections are arranged in a format which provides guidelines for how specific policies may be applied. The final section presents more detailed recommendations for specific neighborhoods or planning districts. These neighborhood plans include the categorical elements in specific geographic settings. In sum, the Development Framework provides the foundation for guiding and managing change and improvements within the community. It determines directives and means for specific assignments and accomplishments. Additionally, it establishes the ground work and parameters for facilities planning. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 1 INTRODUCTION OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 2 � � \ " C oncept Pla n � CONCEPT PLAN • INTRODUCTION The basic elements of a Comprehensive Plan include: natural environment, land use, transportation, community facilities, and administration. These elements evolve from a concept. To ensure viability of the concept, it must be derived from the established goals of the community. The concept plan for the City of Oak Park Heights revolves around a number of separate yet interrelated elements: 1) the neighborhood is to serve as the basic foundation of the community; 2) the commercial areas serve as the focal point for the individual neighborhoods which together form the "community "; 3) the industrial areas support the tax base and provide employment opportunities; 4) land use transition is a method of insuring compatibility between land uses; 5) the growth and viability of the community depends upon the ability to annex additional area; and) environmental protection is key to the quality of life. These elements are graphically represented on the following page. These concepts provide a valuable reference point for the resulting physical development of Oak Park Heights. Additionally, these concepts must apply to all areas identified for future City growth and development. The basic elements of the City's concept plan are identified in this section. The concept plan will graphically indicate a land use direction and staging plan for the City to the year 2020 and beyond. Review and adoption of a conceptual plan for the area, developed with input by the residents of the City of Oak Park Heights and surrounding jurisdictions, will provide the basis from which the overall Comprehensive Plan for Oak Park Heights will be developed. CONCEPTUAL ELEMENTS The Neighborhood In order to enhance and reinforce the sense of community identity within the City, it is essential that a sense of continuity and focus is established. Since the character of Oak Park Heights is described as "small town ", individual neighborhoods should be maintained. Each neighborhood should relate well within itself as well as to adjoining neighborhoods and the entire community. Quality low density residential development within Oak Park Heights is expected and encouraged to be the predominant type of new residential land use. For Oak Park Heights, the first step is annexation of additional area for the creation of residential development within a desirable development format. Residential development formats range from strict grid -type platting to curvilinear and cul -de -sac street patterns. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 3 I CONCEPT PLAN • Design industrial areas Light industry and Utilize a positive transition of which allow for a variety of, business campus compatible land uses between lot sizes and building development commercial development arrangements and residential neighborhoods Heavy industrial uses / I Infill existing areas with new development _ .. Major transportation '+ _ a� facilities A ®` - Minor Arterial LL Medium density j residential Commercial Core .. `' Natural features can o provide excellent � - .. •� .. :x , buffers between varying land uses Transition to curvilinear street patterns to respect natural features _I /i Utilize large lot platting - LaKe " along natural features Z : �' �-- =- -_ - and integrate recreational facilities where appropriate Low density residential Provide pedestrian connection Establish recreational amenities in natural from residential and recreation areas which provide unique spaces for areas to the commercial core residents while preserving the environment OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 4 CONCEPT PLAN As stated within the Policy Plan, residential neighborhoods should be protected from penetration by through traffic on local streets. This attention to traffic is coupled with a fundamental consideration for natural and man -made barriers which tend to help delineate and organize neighborhoods. Finally, the overall neighborhood orientation is set in terms of amenities and services which function as a focus for neighborhood activity. Park land and open space are primary within this group, contributing substantially to the creation of a desirable residential environment within the community. In that the community's neighborhoods have developed as units, maintenance and enhancement of the desirability and attractiveness of these neighborhoods will be essential in the future. In this regard, the development of remaining open land and areas to be annexed should be done in a manner which respects the integrity of existing neighborhoods as new neighborhoods and other land use areas are created. Commercial Development The existing commercial center concept entails a core that includes the St. Croix Mall and highway- oriented retail goods and services along the frontage roads of State Highway 36. The retail and service elements of the commercial core have been allowed to spread along an east -west corridor that follows the State highway. Emphasis now is being placed on the creation of a Central Business District or town center to focus primarily the retail and entertainment elements for this area. Other existing commercial areas will be allowed to develop and evolve although the City will provide direction, through its development regulations. The development of a Central Business District and the continuation of infill of the highway commercial areas will provide the primary commercial areas for Oak Park Heights. The City commercial core concept entails a Central Business District and mainly highway - oriented retail goods and services surrounded by less intense and medium density residential development and finally radiating out to low density residential environments. Industrial Development The City of Oak Park Heights has recently annexed a partially developed business park/ light industrial area as a means of achieving a strong tax base for the community. As the City continues to grow both in population and area, planning for future business park and industrial development remains essential to expand the number of jobs and the commercial /industrial tax base for the community. Land near highways and rail access will provide for excellent industrial opportunities. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 5 CONCEPT PLAN The industrial concept entails typical industrial uses surrounded by less intense industry or a business campus radiating out to commercial uses and to medium /high density residential. The location and focus is to take advantage of the high traffic levels and visibility locations. Land Use Transition The intensity of land uses should decrease as one moves away from an activity center. This concept may be referenced specifically to future development along highways and certain County or collector roads, with their high traffic volumes and visibility. With this in mind, it is important that a land use transition take place between the higher intensity business uses and lower intensity residential uses. As a means of maintaining the integrity of the residential neighborhoods, providing a population base for business activity, and providing an alternative housing type, medium and high density residential development should surround business uses. Annexation The City of Oak Park Heights has almost completely exhausted its supply of vacant land appropriate for residential development. Additionally, the City projects that the available commercial and industrial land will be developed early in the next decade. The City has, for the last 20 years, considered growth south into Baytown Township and has programmed future utility extensions to accommodate that expansion. Additionally, an area west of State Highway 5 has been planned for detachment from Lake Elmo and annexation to Oak Park Heights. The City's policy has been to support an annexation request when supported by property owners or when required for public facilities and use. The City is interested in working with adjacent jurisdictions to plan for orderly transitions from rural to urban land use. Without the addition of portions of Baytown Township and Lake Elmo, the City will stay nearly as it is today in terms of population will not have the ability to expand its residential, commercial and industrial base. The investment that has already been made in utilities, roadways and community facilities to accommodate this growth will be lost. The Metropolitan Council, in its Regional Blueprint, has projected significant population growth for Oak Park Heights and has determined that portions of Baytown Township and Lake Elmo, south of Oak Park Heights, should become urbanized. In its Growth Management Strategy Map, the Metropolitan Council has labeled much of what remains as Baytown Township for Urban Reserve. The Metropolitan Council had designated the OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 6 � r CONCEPT PLAN Urban Reserve as a holding area for growth after the year 2020, but will consider an expansion of urban boundaries and the sewer service to support urban densities before 2020 if development is ready to occur. The area the City has programmed for future growth is in the Urban Reserve. A map showing the Growth Management Strategy is found on the following page. Environmental Protection A variety of benefits are associated with environmental protection in Oak Park Heights. Environmentally sensitive development will create a more aesthetic living and working environment, and minimize the need for future public investments for clean up or beautification. The purpose of the City's Zoning Ordinance and environmental regulations is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the community. Through land use planning, the City wishes to establish standards which will ensure that urban development will be compatible with the natural features of the land and that a high level of environmental quality will be maintained. • The environmental protection concepts which form the basis of this Comprehensive Plan are as follows: 1. Encourage quality, environmentally sensitive development throughout the City and growth areas. 2. To the maximum extent possible, screen outdoor storage and unsightly uses which are visible from public rights -of -way, or other properties. 3. Uphold standards in the commercial and industrial districts which require high quality development. 4. Stage development carefully to make effective use of existing public facilities infrastructure. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 7 CONCEPT PLAN 49 Urban Core Urban Area Illustrative 2 020 NWSA* Urban Reserve Rural Growth Centers Growth Management Strategy Permanent Agricultural area Policy Areas Permanent Rural Area 2000 MUSA Boundary (as of 1995) 2040 Urban Reserve Boundary O Municipal Boundary � County Boundary 4 Major Highways The official 2020 MUSS � � will be determined by local gove arE o--f and the Council Y ` • as Marc o :° the 1997-9g tL' � '�: � Ci#t'ft � Comprehensive Planning T - ",� g �# Tllkg. 16 0 process. M� rk 9i;�#swvot� , Id &v 8 % 1 1 Oilt17c� = j October 10, 1996 ' ►s4 * LakW ] W l i Twp. AAA 1�sits Metropolitan Council t Geographic Information Systems � Labo ll�rd� � p 5 10 15 Miles • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 8 CONCEPT PLAN CONCEPT AND STAGING PLAN The Comprehensive Plan Update for the City of Oak Park Heights focuses not only on that part of the City within its existing boundaries, but also those areas to the south in Baytown Township and Lake Elmo that comprises the area the City plans to expand. Based upon the goals and policies identified in the preceding section and the basic concepts discussed in this section, a conceptual map has been developed for what is referred to as the Planning Study Area. The map also indicates a staging plan which identifies the potential timelines for annexation and growth of the City. The purpose of this diagram is to initiate a dialogue among City officials, the public, Baytown Township, and Lake Elmo so as to determine the ultimate development within the Planning Study Area. From that concept, the final land use, transportation and community facility plans may be developed. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 9 L CONCEPT PLAN OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 10 - 111 �� ■■ �' '�►�_ � _- 1■ - ■■ � _- ■� ��11� � 1 � � ■ � L 111111■ 111111 T . � JIIIt11i !II ■111. 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Alow 1 lii i1 Land Use Plan LAND USE PLAN INTRODUCTION Based upon the foundation established by the Policy Plan and the Concept Plan, this section provides the framework to guide and direct future community growth and improvement. The Land Use Plan is a narrative and graphic description that provides the background and rationale for land use designations as represented on the Land Use Map. The plan has an educational and decision - making function, helping to improve the general understanding of how physical development in the City should take place. Although the emphasis of this section is on land use development, other areas such as natural environment, transportation and community service and facility needs are also addressed. This Land Use Plan is divided into two sections. The first section describes the basis for Oak Park Heights' community plan, including the previous planning history and the population and land development projections that serve as the basis for the current plan. The Proposed Land Use Plan is included on the final page of this section. The final section describes general land use plan elements, including a discussion of the overall land use map, future directions for residential, commercial and industrial development, and specific plans and programs affecting individual planning districts within the City and the areas for potential annexation (Planning Study Area). BASIS OF THE COMMUNITY PLAN Oak Park Heights has taken a progressive planning attitude in regards to its Comprehensive Plan and the current planning process in order to direct land development in a manner that results in compatible land use patterns and efficient utilization of City services and utilities. The City's major planning objective is to establish and maintain attractive, high quality living and working environments for community residents. In providing for these environments, the City recognizes the necessity of providing utilities and services that are demanded with urban development. Through the comprehensive planning process, the City has the ability to direct and focus development in a pattern that maximizes the utilization of existing utilities and services. This type of land use management assists the community in regulating and budgeting for investment in future public utility and service needs. Due to Oak Park Heights' location within the St. Croix Valley and the excellent access the City receives from Highway 36, a prime opportunity is presented to people who desire a small town environment with job opportunities and within convenient commuting distance to other employment centers within the Minneapolis /St. Paul area. Oak Park Heights is experiencing a steady growth trend in population that will not only expect the necessary services, but will desire an attractive, well - planned community environment. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 13 LAND USE PLAN PROJECTED GROWTH The nature of Oak Park Heights' future, with respect to population growth, will depend on a number of factors. The ability of the City to provide adequate land within the municipal limits, to accommodate creation of affordable housing, to provide utility and roadway extensions, and the ability to continue the expansion of local job opportunities will impact the rate of growth. In order to properly plan for growth, the City must understand and evaluate the impact that new growth will have on the City socially, physically and economically. In projecting the year 2000/2010/2020 populations for Oak Park Heights, the future growth is assumed to follow existing development patterns with single family and townhomes constructed as the dominant new housing type. That rate of housing growth is reflective of the late 1980s and early 1990s characterized by economic expansion in the community. Although the level of single family unit growth is expected to continue at this level, the numbers of mid density units is also expected to grow, and multiple family unit growth will be steady. The growth has included the numbers of people and housing units to be added by the Valley Senior Services Alliance project proposed south of 58th Street and other projects expected within Oak Park Heights. The development of new housing is dependent upon the ability of the City to annex additional land from Lake Elmo and to the south within Baytown Township. The table below indicates the projected increase in population. POPULATION TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS 1980 1990 1997* 2000 2000 2010 2010 2020 2020 Slow Strong Slow Strong Slow Strong 2,591 3,486 4,069 4,700 5,000 5,500 6,000 6,600 7,500 SOURCE: U.S. Census 1980, 1990, State Demographer Estimate (1996), Northwest Associated Consultants, Inc. * State Demographer Estimate The prison population, at the State Correctional Facility, is expected to remain relatively stable. The current population in 1998 is 406 inmates. The Prison Warden indicates that there are plans to expand the population with some internal remodeling in the next five years. The maximum prison population after the remodeling is expected to be 460 persons. That inmate level is expected to continue well into the next century and could only be expanded with significant changes to the existing facility. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 14 ■ y LAND USE PLAN The somewhat conservative population estimates reflect the optimism for future growth in the community, but recognize the past trend of housing development. Commercial and industrial development is expected to accompany the level of housing development, again reflective of existing positive growth rates. Overall land demand in acres (strong growth calculations) is highlighted below. LAND DEMAND IN ACRES (STRONG GROWTH) Based Upon Residential Residential Comm./ Public Streets Park Total "Strong" Single Multiple Industrial Growth Family (1) Family (2) (3) Scenario 1997 -2000 55 17 60 8 18 8 166 12000 -2010 330 34 108 18 94 138 722 12010 -2020 160 40 108 18 60 30 416 At the absorption rates indicated above, the City will, in the very near future, need to annex additional land to accommodate its residential, commercial and industrial growth. There will be a significant need for additional residential land in all density levels, in that most remaining developable land for residential purposes is contained in the Valley Senior Services Alliance project. A City needs to have a reasonable supply of vacant, easily accessible property for all land use types in reserve to accommodate growth demands. The City's logical pattern of growth is to the west into Lake Elmo and south into Baytown Township. ANNEXATION With the current level of development, especially residential land uses, buildable, vacant land is in short supply within the corporate boundaries of Oak Park Heights. The City has begun the process and must continue an ongoing dialogue with representatives of Baytown Township, the City of Lake Elmo, and Bayport. In 1998, the Township and Lake Elmo moved forward with a plan to orderly annex all the Township into the City. That action has not been taken and would be resisted by the City of Oak Park Heights. City and Township representatives should begin a process as soon as possible to discuss the fate of Baytown Township and areas that should be annexed to each of the respective Cities. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 15 LAND USE PLAN Tools that should be utilized by the Cities and the Township are orderly annexation agreements. Orderly annexation is a process established in Minnesota Statutes that allows a township and municipality to negotiate the terms for annexation of designated land areas. The terms, which are finalized in a signed document and approved by the Minnesota Municipal Board, can be structured to regulate the timing of growth, provide for planning and land use regulations, and avoid costly and time consuming annexation battles between the Township and the City. Joint agreements will also allow the City to plan for roadway and utility extensions in its periphery areas. In planning for development of vacant areas, the City must address the need for orderly growth that is promoted through the logical extension of streets and utilities. Existing development, property ownership patterns, and physical barriers will greatly influence land use patterns, however, development must occur in a manner that capitalizes on in -place infrastructure and facilitate the financing of new capital improvements. Future growth will be evaluated on both its physical and financial impact on the City. Future growth must also be sensitive to the natural and environmental constraints of land. Local, state and federal regulations pertaining to floodplain, shoreland and wetland preservation will require the avoidance, mitigation and /or integration of the natural features into future subdivisions or site development. The Oak Park Heights' Land Use Plan proposes an orderly growth pattern. To implement this stated development objective, the City will discourage the premature annexation and subdivision of land. The following guidelines will be used in determining whether a proposed subdivision is considered premature for development: 1. The land is not within the Planning Study Area or is not a planned annexation area. 2. The subdivision is not contiguous to or near existing development and a logical extension of utilities cannot be completed at the time of the request. 3. Lack of adequate storm water drainage capacity or planning. 4. Lack of adequate municipal water supply. 5. Lack of adequate municipal sewage collection. 6. Development is inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan. 7. Lack of adequate roads or highways to serve the subdivision or development. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 16 LAND USE PLAN 8. Lack of adequate public support facilities (e.g., parks, recreation, police, and fire protection, etc.). 9. The subdivision design and land use intensity is not responsive to the natural environmental features of the land to be developed. Developers must provide evidence to demonstrate that subdivisions are not premature or will agree to assume the majority of costs for extending utilities, streets, and services to the property before development approvals will be given. The City will utilize existing methods of funding utility extensions, through assessing streets, sewer and water area charges on a per acre basis for all new development. LAND USE COMPATIBILITY Land use compatibility concerns exist, primarily in the older sections of the community, within lower Oak Park Heights and in the area near the St. Croix Mall. High density residential or commercial development adjacent to single family neighborhoods can intensify unwanted activity in the area and impose impacts on parking, traffic and noise that may be uncharacteristic of single family neighborhoods. To respond to these land use compatibility concerns, the Comprehensive Plan establishes a policy of screening, landscaping and buffering commercial establishments near or within residential areas to minimize the impact on surrounding uses and enhance the neighborhood and community. The City, through its Comprehensive Plan, may determine that certain businesses should be relocated out of a neighborhood, or a collection of homes no longer functions as a neighborhood and the area would be better suited for higher intensity uses. Such redevelopment efforts are costly and in most cases, may need to be accomplished with the assistance of the City or its Economic Development Authority. Additionally, the Comprehensive Plan calls for the proper transition between high and low density residential development. The City, through its plan and Zoning Ordinance, shall transition residential development so as not to create negative living environments. Concentration of one type of housing style or density can also create issues for the proper development of neighborhoods. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 17 LAND USE PLAN HISTORIC PRESERVATION The City has identified a handful of sites deemed historic within the Inventory section of this Comprehensive Plan. These sites, the Moritz Bergstein house and shoddy mill, Club Tara and the Stillwater Overlook have been recognized as historic in the community. The City will continue to work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) on preservation and maintenance of the overlook on Lookout Trail North. Club Tara is in use today as a restaurant and bar. The City will work with the property owners to ensure that the original log cabin look is preserved. The Bergstein house and mill is within the area that is being purchased by MnDOT for construction of the St. Croix River Bridge. With an expected change in location of the bridge, the City will work with MnDOT on possible preservation or moving of the structures. Due to the limited number of historic structures and sites, the City does not anticipate the need for a preservation ordinance or establishment of a commission to oversee historic resources. SOLAR ACCESS PROTECTION Ensuring that all properties have equal access to sunlight is a priority not only for potential solar energy systems, but for the protection of property and aesthetic values as well. Solar access protection is provided for by the uniform implementation of lot and building performance standards adopted as part of the Oak Park Heights Zoning Ordinance. Requirements such as maximum building height and yard setback standards are implemented for the purpose of creating separation between structures and allowing equal sunlight access such that a property is not in the shadow of an adjacent building. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 18 ■ LAND USE PLAN i RESIDENTIAL The Policy Plan promotes the development of a diversified housing stock which is affordable to a wide range of incomes. The plan also establishes guidelines to protect residential neighborhoods from encroachment or intrusion of incompatible, higher intensity uses through the use of buffers and appropriate land use transitions. Existing Pattern For the most part, Oak Park Heights has followed a traditional residential growth pattern with growth emanating outward from Highway 36. Of primary importance in maintaining a logical future growth pattern within the area planned for future growth (Planning Study Area) is the identification of future expansion areas where City services may be most adequately provided. To the extent possible, new development will occur in a contiguous outwardly radiating fashion that can be economically and efficiently serviced with municipal utilities. Such development should also be limited and phased to properly respond to the conditions of the local real estate market. HOUSING Livable Communities In 1996, the City adopted a Livable Communities Action Plan in conformance with the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act to address housing issues. The housing plan encourages the development and maintenance of affordable and life cycle housing in the City of Oak Park Heights. Additionally, the plan establishes housing goals and policies that are to be implemented by specific programs, initiatives, and actions. Those initiatives are directed specifically to provisions of additional affordable units (150 by the year 2010), housing demand and housing maintenance /rehabilitation. The issues of housing demand and maintenance are addressed below. A copy of the 1996 Livable Communities Action Plan is found as an Appendix to this plan. Housing Demand The population growth and land absorption for residential development experienced in recent years indicates a general demand in the community for more housing. As the business and industry sectors grow in Oak Park Heights and throughout the St. Croix Valley, there are more people in the housing market than there are units to rent or own. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 19 LAND USE PLAN Much of the existing housing stock in Oak Park Heights is assessed at less than the market value of the new houses being constructed, which makes this older housing more affordable. The ongoing demand for affordable housing needs to be balanced with single family units in higher price ranges. Construction of housing units at all levels of value, but especially higher value housing, will assist in meeting the housing demand. The City of Oak Park Heights has a role in development of a housing program for the community. The City's basic roles of providing adequate /appropriately zoned land and services is critical in providing a supply of lots for continued housing development. The City must also be supportive of the Washington County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and its housing programs and funding sources to bring about new construction, redevelopment, and rehabilitation where it will do the most good to improve existing neighborhoods. Redevelopment of blighted properties, creation of lots for affordable housing or working with local financial institutions on programs for first time homebuyers are continuing programs for the Washington County HRA with the City's support. Housing Maintenance /Rehabilitation Generally, Oak Park Heights' housing stock appears to be in good condition, but there are areas in the community, especially in the older areas in lower Oak Park Heights, where some homes show signs of deterioration. Additionally, problems have been noted with regard to unsightly appearance and outdoor storage on some residential lots in the City. To insure quality neighborhoods and to maintain property values, the City can take steps to improve residential areas exhibiting signs of neglect. The City should consider the formulation and enforcement of housing and ground maintenance regulations with specific attention to building conditions, outdoor storage, and accessory uses. Effective enforcement of these regulations is necessary and an ongoing responsibility of the City. Within the community, there appears to be continued support for rehabilitation programs for existing dwelling units. Rehabilitation programs have been available through the Washington County HRA. The City should continue to promote these programs, consider establishing a local revolving fund for rehabilitation loans emphasizing low interest loans to qualifying households, and to continue enforcement of existing codes and regulations related to home and site maintenance and upkeep. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 20 LAND USE PLAN Development Allowances The City has added residential single family lots at an average rate of approximately 30 per year. Multiple family units are added at a rate of approximately four per year. With the Valley Senior Services Alliance project consuming most of the remaining residential land in the community, it is important for the City to look to the Planning Study Area to meet the growing need. At the end of the 1998 building season, there were less than 10 fully serviced single family lots available. A City such as Oak Park Heights should maintain at least a two year supply of approximately 60 single family lots. Additionally, the lots should be varying sizes and price ranges to accommodate differing housing styles and values. Also at the end of the 1998 building season, the City had only one multiple family lot and no lots to accommodate townhomes and patio homes. A supply of mid and high density lots adequate to accommodate at least 20 to 30 units must also be maintained. The lot supply policy should be implemented by the City and could be included in orderly annexation agreements to act as a "trigger" for allowing additional property to be annexed and subdivided for residential development. Low Density Residential General Plan Low density residential development represents one of the largest percentage of land use within the existing municipal boundaries of Oak Park Heights. Residential housing in this category includes single family dwellings up to four dwelling units per acre. Depending upon the availability of additional land, single family development is expected to continue at a steady rate through the year 2020. There are few vacant property or undeveloped single family lots within the City, necessitating the annexation of additional property, especially in the areas south of the current City boundaries. The expected residential growth over the next 20 years will include the build out of the Valley Senior Services Project and areas in the Planning Study Area that are adjacent to the current City limits and can be serviced by the City's utility systems. The Land Use Plan Map illustrates the areas for continued low density residential growth. As indicated in the previous section, the City must continue it dialogue with representatives of Baytown Township and the Cities of Lake Elmo and Bayport for negotiating orderly annexation agreements and possible rearrangement of City boundaries. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 21 LAND USE PLAN The expansion of residential growth into existing and newly annexed areas will be done in an orderly staged manner that gives specific attention to market absorption, City financial capabilities, and utility availability. In this light, future residential subdivisions shall be required to provide sufficient financial securities to insure that the project proceeds according to plans on a timely manner without financial risk to the City. Additionally, the City must continue with its policies related to the issues of financing utility extensions and street construction to allow planned expansion without financial burden to the City or its taxpayers. The City may require residential development to be phased over time in consideration of the following: 1. The timely overall availability of lots in all price ranges and locations. 2. The monitoring of water and sewer availability, existing infrastructure capacity, and service capabilities of police, fire, street maintenance, etc. 3. The planning and budgeting by the City for infrastructure improvements necessary for growth. The City must limit financial exposure with regard to premature investments in utility infrastructure and be satisfied that debt requirements are manageable. Land Use Plan i The Proposed Land Use Plan Map, as presented at the end of this section, graphically illustrates the conceptual development patterns and growth of the community. The plan is not to be taken as an exact lot by lot summary of the proposed land uses, but rather as a conceptual guide for future land use decision - making. The community can be divided into three general areas for discussion of land use. The first is the area of the existing City. The second is the area west of the City boundaries in Lake Elmo, and the third includes those areas south of the City of Oak Park Heights in Baytown Township. Within the current City boundaries, the areas of infill for low density residential lots include primarily those areas south of 58th within the Valley Senior Services Alliance project. The low density development within this project will consist of 152 one level, attached two family units. A copy of the approved concept plan for the Valley Senior Services Alliance project is found on the following page. Most of the residents of this area are expected to be in their 50s or older and consist primarily of empty nesters and retirees. Additionally, within the Autumn Ridge development in the same area, there are less than 10 single family lots that will likely be built in 1999. Once the Valley Senior Services Alliance project is completed, there are no new areas or existing vacant lots in the City available for any type of low density residential development. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 22 o , - f - �1 ADDITION 1 ° > X Ca _I m / � fir Ell '�� / 1 �op p� - ° Do 000 � Z Cb � p 1 1 NORELL AVE -- `- - - \ �N i � I � • � ��� 8 0 0 / %d'° 0 � 1 \ ° o B �� � � _ _-P� I ISM ��•� 0 / ob c � • � ; r tl�l s • R fllo �o O 1 ' (3) � � I I oil yg � D — — Ile' 8 � $ >r m ° O Y 11 �O. �., r I Il �� 0 17rys7p1p�1A ( mry pp� ( ry a�x ry n �� DAF- I I RII ER rI1LL 2ND ADDIT I N �-- A _ L � 1 L ;- —I NOVAK AVENUE L'I N O r O N W 1 ,cRn, u.nr, ,Mr rws nw,. srccvlun°r. a+.c.on ohnson, Sheldon, sorensen k hafner ,•,• ca SITE PLAN PHASE I 1 ""'OCT (/12/99 aev�ala vAt rKrAKR n ,c m wxR Rr RRrcn slacRVUwR Axo J and SENIOR LIFE COMMUNITY MT 1 M A R V KUSTCKY M TICT LNO[R ,K LAYS V 1 iK su,c o- ARCHITECTS, Inc. O ` p VALLEY SENIOR SERVICES ALLIANCE MINNF 50=A ph. 61 - 9 7 suite -93 ' .,•, ' OAK PARK HEI6HT5, MINNE50TA oeo minnetonlca, mn. 55345 CAS R"TC K� "a ph. 812- 935 -8397 fax. 812- 995 -0878 LAND USE PLAN Within the area west of the existing City limits now in Lake Elmo, property owners petitioned for annexation to the City in 1997 when it was a part of Baytown Township. The Municipal Board divided the area such that Oak Park Heights received the Kern Center and Lake Elmo was provided the residential areas to the south and west. It is expected that the property owners will request detachment from Lake Elmo and annexation to Oak Park Heights. The owners prefer annexation to Oak Park Heights in that water and sanitary sewer service will be available adjacent to their property in 1999 from Kern Center in Oak Park Heights. Lake Elmo does not have the infrastructure available at this time to provide a cost effective extension of services. The City of Oak Park Heights has included the entire area originally included in the 1997 annexation in its Proposed Land Use Plan Map based upon the assumption a petition for annexation is forthcoming. This is one of the primary areas to be discussed in joint meetings of Lake Elmo and Oak Park Heights. The area property owners will likely ask the two Cities to begin discussions and resolve this issue in 1999. The Proposed Land Use Plan Map indicates a significant area south of the existing Oak Park Heights City boundaries in Baytown Township. The area, as it exists, consists of the DNR property, farms, and single family subdivisions. It is bordered by Northbrook Boulevard on the west, 40th Street on the south, and Stage Coach Trail on the east. The Proposed Land Use Plan Map indicates that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) property and the open land to the south would consist of park facilities (including the potential for a golf course), limited residential and open space. The areas that exist as single family subdivisions would remain and the allowance for further subdivision into large lot development has been planned for. Depending upon the availability of utilities and the cost of extensions, some areas in the southerly areas of this area could develop without City utilities. The City Council will need to establish a policy of where and when utilities would be extended in the southerly portion of the Planning Study Area. Additionally, an area south of the Valley Senior Services Alliance project and the River Hills neighborhood is programmed for annexation into the City. The area is planned for all large lot single family to transition between the City and existing lots in Baytown Township. Within the Planning Study Area, a variety of lots and home values are expected. In that the City has in the past emphasized development of relatively small lot sizes and moderate valued homes, the new areas for development are programmed for larger lot developments, especially in those areas that transition to existing lots in the Township. The Oak Park Heights Zoning Ordinance was amended in 1996 to include R -1 Districts with varying large lot sizes. The R -1 District has a 10,400 square foot minimum lot size; the R -1A, 12,500 square feet; R -1 B, 15,000 square feet; and R -1 C, 20,000 square feet. These zoning districts will be utilized as effective tools in providing a transition of lot sizes and in creation of neighborhoods in the new areas proposed for Oak Park Heights. i OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 25 LAND USE PLAN Medium /High Density Residential General Plan Medium density (five to nine units per acre) and high density (10+ units per acre) residential land uses are key elements to providing housing diversity and affordability in the community. Existing medium density consists of two and three family units, while high density consists of larger buildings with multiple units. With the economic growth in the City and within the St. Croix Valley, multiple family units will continue to play an important role in fulfilling the housing demand of the area. The Policy Plan encourages providing a variety of housing opportunities that are sensitive to income levels and lifestyles of all people who are interested in living in Oak Park Heights. Through the provision of a diverse housing stock, the City will retain and add population by providing housing alternatives that are attractive to singles, young working families, and the elderly. Medium density developments may provide an important function as a transitional land use between low density single family areas and commercial /industrial land use areas. Medium density development which includes two family dwellings, townhomes, and small apartment developments is a land use with property site development that can be placed adjacent to single family residential areas to produce a transitional sequence. The City of Oak Park Heights has developed significant townhome developments in the areas near Osgood Avenue and 58th Street North. A need for quality townhome or patio home developments for young professionals, empty nesters, and retirees looking to retain residence in the City continues that will be satisfied at least for elderly residents by the Valley Senior Service Alliance project. Future multiple family development within the existing City and in the study areas will emphasize a mixture of medium and high density development with two family and single family housing in a gradual mixed transition of uses. Additionally, higher density uses should also be considered as part of development of the Central Business District. A mixed use development combining residential and commercial within the Central Business District will allow for a higher concentration of residents to take advantage of services and shopping. The plan envisions separate mid density and multiple family dwellings as well as housing units incorporated on the upper levels of retail, service or office buildings. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 26 l ti LAND USE PLAN • Land Use Plan The City recognizes the need for multiple family housing options to ensure a diversified housing stock. The Proposed Land Use Map illustrates future locations for medium and high density residential land uses. Using the same three areas defined in the discussion of low density residential use, the following describes the implication of the Proposed Land Use Map as it relates to medium and high density land uses. Most of the existing medium and high density residential development is in the older portions of Oak Park Heights including developments along Osgood Avenue and the Sunnyside Condominiums. The Valley View Estates area is almost completely developed except for one eight -unit townhome project and one higher density apartment lot. The East Oaks development is currently developing with a limited number of lots available for attached single family units. The Valley Senior Services Alliance project, as planned in 1999, provides the following types of mid and high density residential options for seniors: Independent Living Apartments 96 units Alzheimer Assisted Living 36 units Assisted Living 126 units Independent Living Cooperative 90 units Skilled Nursing 84 units Quadraminiums 8 units The Valley Senior Service Alliance project will be completed in phases beginning in 1999 and continuing for what will likely be a five year time frame. This project is seen as a significant plus for Oak Park Heights and for providing necessary housing for seniors in the St. Croix Valley. Within that area currently in Lake Elmo, an area of medium density development is proposed to provide a transition from the business warehousing areas of Kern Center to the single family programmed to the west and south. This area, depending upon annexation, would likely provide the next area for mid density development other than the Valley Senior Services Alliance project. Within what is now Baytown Township, areas of mid and high density residential would be planned to provide a transition of land uses from the business warehouse /industrial to the areas planned for open space and residential use to the west. The mid density and high density development would need to be carefully planned and designed to be compatible with the existing residential development in that area. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 27 LAND USE PLAN • The Oak Park Heights Zoning Ordinance provides an R -2 District for single and two family, R -3 District for multiple family, and R -B District for limited commercial and residential. These zoning districts will provide the ability to properly transition and provide for a coordinated development of these areas. COMMERCIAL Commercial development in Oak Park Heights primarily consists in the St. Croix Mall and frontage road commercial development along Highway 36. There are proposals to redevelop portions of the St. Croix Mall. The City has recently zoned an area south of Highway 36 and west of Oakgreen for a Central Business District. There are significant areas throughout that area west of Osgood for commercial development. St. Croix Mall Competition from the larger regional retail centers and other areas of Stillwater and Oak Park Heights has impacted the focus of the St. Croix Mall. Although the mall will never function as an all encompassing retail and service center, it does serve as an important destination within the community. In the short term, the mall's use should be for entertainment, restaurants, service, retail, and office uses. The long term focus of the mall will likely be office, service and restaurant uses. The physical elements of the St. Croix Mall offer both obstacles and opportunities. The mall is located on an elevation higher than Highway 36 on the adjacent frontage road. Because of this elevation difference, the mall and its businesses are not highly visible. Additionally, current access to the mall is primary from Osgood on the Highway 36 frontage road. On the positive side, the mall is easily adaptable to a wide variety of uses and the parking lots are currently under - utilized. Recognizing the weaknesses and building on the St. Croix Mall's strengths, the following strategies are proposed to improve the current image and viability of the St. Croix Mall. ► Promote the introduction of new uses and utilization of space within the mall: 1. Redevelop under - utilized or construct new space to the mall to expand the focus and opportunities for growth. 2. Promote development of commercial uses that complement existing businesses but do not directly compete with regional retailers. This may require a change in focus from general retail to other business including but OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 28 LAND USE PLAN not limited to specialty retail, restaurants, entertainment, hotel, professional offices, or service oriented businesses. 3. Work to adopt the mall for long term reuse and redevelopment. The emphasis on the mall's redevelopment efforts shall be to provide the use of office, service and restaurant uses. ► Continue to maintain the St. Croix Mall as a community focal point. Encourage community events and promote service businesses that reach a number of people in the City. ► Work to improve the access to the mall: 1. Work with business owners to implement the plans to relocate the frontage roads along Highway 36 at the Osgood intersection. 2. Continue to develop and maintain sidewalks and other pedestrian access to the mall, especially across Osgood Avenue to the east and connections to the existing trail system to the west. Implementation of the City's Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan will provide the needed interconnections between the mall and all sections of the community. Central Business District In 1998, the City established a Central Business District (CBD) designation within the Oak Park Heights Zoning Ordinance. Additionally, an area of the City was zoned CBD, including those properties bounded on the north by Highway 36 on the south by 58th Street, on the west by Norell Avenue, and on the east by Oakgreen Avenue. The City is currently in the process of developing schematic site and design plans to guide development in this area. The purpose of creating a Central Business District is to provide a focal point for the community in terms of retail, service, and entertainment businesses as well as residential opportunities. It is the intent to concentrate much of the retail that would be locating in the area west of Osgood Avenue while providing a well planned vehicular and pedestrian design that would be beneficial to the community. The Central Business District would replace an existing auto salvage yard and pull together various commercial and residential properties into a coordinated design and plan. The City and its Economic Development Authority could be an active player in coordinating and directing of the planning for the area including development of a marketing strategy. It is expected that project planning and land assembly will begin in 1999. The Design OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 29 LAND USE PLAN Guidelines, approved in 1998, will assist in providing design provisions for developing a functional plan and design. Highway Commercial The City's traditional pattern of commercial development has been highway frontage and development along Highway 36. That pattern is expected to continue in the areas designated for commercial south of Hi 36 and west of Norell Avenue. The recent surge in commercial activity in Oak Park Heights has added strip center development and big box retailers to that area. The City has discussed planning controls on some of the commercial development to direct certain retailers and service industries to the Central Business District while better focusing the types of business in the commercial areas planned to the west. The City, in approving the Design Guidelines in 1998, and establishing the Planning Commission as the reviewing agency to provide recommendations to the City Council, has taken a significant step in establishing building and site standards for the community. To enhance the highway commercial areas and provide a more consumer friendly environment, the City would promote the following: 1. Elimination of code violations and non - conforming uses through redevelopment efforts. 2. Promote private rehabilitation and investment in the highway service corridors. 3. Encourage commercial development/redevelopment that offers joint shared access through the development of frontage roads between commercial sites to encourage business interchange and reduce traffic movements onto the highways. 4. Update and enforcement of sign regulations to eliminate unnecessary, unsightly, and non - conforming signage. 5. Maintain high standards for quality by addressing appearance and function by imposing the following: a. Conformance with the Design Guidelines of the City of Oak Park Heights. b. Commercial sites must be designed with adequate area to accommodate building construction, off - street parking, internal circulation, public transit, pedestrian access, and green space. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 30 � r LAND USE PLAN C. All buildings should be professionally designed and be of a form or image compatible with standards expected of high quality development in Oak Park Heights. d. Commercial parking, loading and outside storage should be fully screened from public rights -of -way and residential zones. e. Non -glare lighting and landscaping plans for all developments in Oak Park Heights should be approved by the City prior to issuance of a building permit. f. City ordinances for parking and signage should be strictly adhered to. g. On -site storm water management will be required. Planning Study Area Commercial Within the areas programmed for annexation into the City, there is one small area designated for strictly commercial use on Stagecoach Trail. This area would be directed toward highway commercial type uses. It may be likely that industrial or business warehouses may include areas of commercial but it is the intent of this Comprehensive Plan to focus retail and service businesses within the Central Business District, and highway commercial areas within the existing City. The emphasis of planning in the study area is for residential use and business warehousing and institutional uses. INDUSTRIAL /BUSINESS WAREHOUSE Oak Park Heights aggressively promotes the expansion and new development of industrial land use to expand the tax base, thus reducing the tax burden on residential properties and increasing the job opportunities. A diversified industrial base provides for a strong local economy. The City has made a commitment to marketing and promotion of industrial and business warehousing areas by creating a Community Development Department to coordinate its economic development efforts. The Land Use Plan anticipates that the new areas opened for business /warehousing and industrial in the Kern Center and Planning Study Area will accommodate the expansion needs for new industrial development potential in the St. Croix Valley. It will be necessary to continue the promotion of diversification of industry to avoid the cyclical effects of the national and regional economies. An emphasis on assistance to new, start -up industrial OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 31 i LAND USE PLAN is seen as a way of broadening the job market and avoiding cyclical problems from a few large employers. The City must also address ways in which to assist business owners in older industrial areas to continue investing in their property and provide appropriate facilities for new businesses and expansion opportunities. Code enforcement backed up with possible rehabilitation assistance from the City, proper screening through landscaping and fencing, and a City commitment to continued investment in the infrastructure of the areas are methods of ensuring these as viable and compatible industrial areas in the City. Existing Industrial /Business Warehouse Areas The primary existing industrial area in the City consists of Northern State Power's Allen S. King plant on the St. Croix River. A few scattered industrial /warehousing uses are also located in lower Oak Park Heights. It is the intent of the City that these scattered uses be eventually relocated to areas more appropriate for industrial use. An area along Stagecoach Trail, adjacent to Perro Creek, has been designated for redevelopment for limited industrial /business warehouse use. The existing single family homes would be eventually purchased and removed for redevelopment. In 1998, the City annexed Kern Center, a partially developed business park area at the intersection of Highway 36 and Highway 5. The plan is to extend City utilities to this area and continue to develop in a similar fashion to what exists. The Proposed Land Use Plan Map indicates that Kern Center would be designated as Highway Business/Warehouse and could be expanded along Highway 5 upon detachment of property from Lake Elmo and annexation to Oak Park Heights. Planning Study Area Industrial As indicated on the Land Use Plan Map, one area is proposed for industrial use in the area that is now Baytown Township but planned to be a part of Oak Park Heights. That area is directly west of Stagecoach Trail, has existing rail access, and is adjacent to an area of Bayport that is planned for eventual industrial uses. An additional industrial park will provide the City with industrial park development opportunities well into the 20th Century. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 32 i LAND USE PLAN INSTITUTIONAL This land use comprises the largest acreage of all categories with 18 percent of the City's land and consists of schools, churches, and governmental facilities. The Stillwater Area High School, State of Minnesota Correctional Facility, and Metropolitan Waste Control Commission's water treatment facility are the major institutional uses in this land use category. Other than for internal remodeling and additions, it is not expected that any of these institutional uses will require additional land adjacent or near their facilities. Within its Comprehensive Plan, the City of Oak Park Heights is interested in the continuation of these facilities as they contribute to the character and economic vitality of the community. The City does not support the creation of new large areas for institutional use within its Proposed Land Use Plan Map because of the greater need for residential growth area and the tax implications large governmental or religious facilities can have on a community. PARK LAND /OPEN SPACE The City prides itself on the large areas of the community devoted to developed park land and open space. Within the four developed parks, the City has approximately 80 acres of recreational and passive areas for the enjoyment of its citizens. Development of the Valley Senior Services Alliance project will create an additional area in the westerly portion of the community for walking trails, a picnic shelter, and a playground. To the north of the Valley View Park, Northern States Power is completing the fill and cap of its ash disposal facility in the westerly portion of the site. The City has plans in cooperation with Northern States Power to create an active recreational facility including ballfields, soccer fields, an amphitheater, and a formal garden. To the south of Brekke Park, in the Planning Study Area, the Proposed Land Use Plan Map continues a significant area for preservation of open space and park land as well as a possible golf course /housing development. In 1999, the City will actively be working with the Department of Natural Resources to release this property and allow for extension of the City. This area, as well as the open acres to the south of the Department of Natural Resources property, is seen as a significant growth area for the City, especially in terms of allowing for controlled, very low density single family development with possible open space and a golf course. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 33 LAND USE PLAN er OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 34 1 M M �'��♦ �� i �I,III j a�\ \11111 ���■ ' 1 :■■ ����� ■.,� •�/' ' ' =��� := '�7 �� III ■11111 .,, ■� j � i _ � �uuuw uu■n■ ■ �_ �� 1ii JIIIUIi .11.111: ,N LEE � a � �� 1,1111 �����■� � � � - — - ■ ■ ••19 � � � II ■ '�% � 111111 ■ ■1 ''� MEL _ - - .emeeel Zvi ��� �;:. �� ,111,1 ■ ■\ f ■1■ - s 1 �: _:::.. -•- . ►II,11fI �) _ °` � ���_�� ■� - . � �\ �l11„ = -, Q�, f111O�1r�ii.f► �►�� _ �� � ,,. 1,11■ ■I � _ ` � - � a i �� i �� .� � ■r!Iun,�1 \■I�� ■ /�IIA : ♦ ` ' � ��11111� .f1�► 111111111■ � 11 i.�lll r ` � 1iGii1 111111 I_: p111 ■I■ ■■ ■► � ��_ �U,11r1111� � .. - \ '� /111 ■' �� �1 / ■Now ruur� 1■un 1 , ► _ ORIN ag RE ■11111■ �� • - ` ,"■ _ !� � � ■11111■ iii __ = _�S�a, _ a 0 0 sz L y .. 4 3,E a- TRANSPORTATION PLAN INTRODUCTION The Transportation Plan is based upon a total transportation system and how it relates to and serves the land use patterns within the community. The transportation system encompasses several modes which include automobile, pedestrian, bicycle, rail and public transit. The transportation system serves to tie together, and in some cases separate, the various land use activities in the community. The Transportation Plan will present the basis for programming and planning the extension of the community transportation system into undeveloped areas of the City and surrounding areas. The effect of growth and expansion of the community on the existing roadway systems, especially those limited by existing rail, highway or river crossings, is also part of the Transportation Plan. Development of alternative or additional routes in developing areas will serve to lessen the impacts on the existing systems. FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM The functional classification system for the City's streets and highways is illustrated by the criteria developed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Additionally, the transportation section of the Inventory illustrates the functional classes for those roadways within the existing boundaries of Oak Park Heights and provided traffic counts and projections to the year 2020. The Transportation Plan Map, found on the final page of this section, indicates the proposed arterial, collector and local streets. The functional classification system is based on anticipated usage for five to ten years in the future. This classification of roadways for Oak Park Heights and the Planning Study Area will be used to determine the number of access points on major roadways and the design relationship of local roads to other township, county and state highways. Principal Arterials Principal arterials are major transportation arteries. They function to connect large population centers to cities in other portions of the state. These roadways are designed for high speed movement and for high vehicle volumes, including commercial traffic, and are intended to serve longer trips. The principal arterial roadway within the City of Oak Park Heights is Highway 36. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 37 TRANSPORTATION PLAN Improvements to Highway 36 have been planned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) as part of the construction of a St. Croix River Crossing. The most significant aspects of the Highway 36 improvement program were the intersection improvements at Oakgreen and Osgood Avenues, and the removal of the Beach Road overpass. MnDOT is currently considering a design for a separated intersection at Osgood and Highway 36. The City is working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to initiate the Oakgreen and Osgood intersection improvements before a final decision is made on a river crossing location. The fate of the Beach Road overpass is also dependent upon the river crossing location and a design for the Highway 36 and Highway 95 intersection. The City is interested in keeping an overpass at or near Beach Road to maintain access between north and south Oak Park Heights. Minor Arterials Minor arterials also place more emphasis on mobility than on providing land access. Minor arterials typically connect cities and other major activity centers to each other and to the principal arterials. They may also provide relief for congestion on parallel principal arterials. The City of Oak Park Heights contains two minor arterial roadways, Highway 95 and Highway 5. Both of these roadways provide significant access through Oak Park Heights and connections to the cities of the St. Croix Valley. Replacement of the bridge at the intersection of State Highways 5 and 36 was completed in 1997. MnDOT has indicated that there are no plans for widening or improvements to Highway 5 for the next 20 years. The intersection of Highways 95 and 36 would be reconstructed by MnDOT with construction of a St. Croix River Crossing. The area of homes cleared by MnDOT in Oak Park Heights for construction of the original St. Croix River Crossing location would likely be utilized for the Highways 95 and 36 intersection. The City has zoned the area as 0, Open Space as a holding zone until a decision on the river crossing and resulting intersection improvements is decided. Major Collectors Major collectors are roadways which place emphasis on both mobility and land access. Major collectors typically connect neighborhoods within and between subregions. Oak Park Heights contains three major collector roadways, Oakgreen Avenue /Northbrook Boulevard, Osgood Avenue and Stagecoach Trail. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 38 i TRANSPORTATION PLAN Oakgreen Avenue /Northbook Boulevard is scheduled to be reconstructed by Washington County starting in 2000 to include widening and major upgrades. At that time, the roadway will become a County State Aid Highway with maintenance responsibility by the County. The City has been working with the County Highway Department to schedule these improvements as soon as possible in that completion of 58th Street to Oakgreen Avenue will place significant traffic on Oakgreen before County improvements are scheduled. Washington County has also programmed widening and improvements to Osgood Avenue north of Highway 36 for 2001. A bike trail would be installed along Osgood on the south side of Highway 36 in 2001. Minor Collectors Minor collectors provide service between major collector and minor arterial streets to provide critical connections to subregions to relieve local streets of heavy traffic, but also provide for limited direct lot access when necessary. Minor collector streets within the City include 58th Street between Highway 5 and Osgood Avenue, Oldfield Avenue, 57th Street North from O'Brien Avenue to Osgood, Oldfield from 55th Street to 57th Street, and O'Brien from 53rd Street to 57th Street. The completion of 58th Street from Norell Avenue to Oakgreen is scheduled for 1999. Additionally, a one -way connection from 57th Street through the City Hall complex to Oakgreen Avenue is also to be completed in 1999. This improvement is seen as an important connection, especially for emergency vehicles and local traffic to the west of Oak Park Heights. Local Streets All other roadways that do not fall under the functional classifications discussed above are designated as local roadways. These streets are primarily designed to provide property access. The proposed Transportation Plan addresses only those extensions of local streets that are already planned for the existing network. As development occurs, placement of local streets will be determined by the existing and proposed collector and arterial streets in that particular area. In the past, the community developed without a definitive plan for through streets and allowed dead -end and cul -de -sac streets in those areas where it is not necessitated by features such as wetlands. Cul -de -sacs and dead -end streets should not be permitted as the development norm but only as a way to accommodate existing natural or physical features. Local street networks developed without dead -ends will serve to OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 39 TRANSPORTATION PLAN improve traffic circulation patterns, reduce the City's reliance on its collector and arterial streets and economize on the provision of local public services, including public transit. Future street extensions must integrate with the existing street networks and provide future access to undeveloped areas in the City and Planning Study Area. Local street construction will be developed in conjunction with the orderly extension of utilities and in accordance with the Subdivision Ordinance and City policies. ST. CROIX RIVER CROSSING Alternatives to the original St. Croix River Crossing were presented by Dick Braun and a 21 member advisory group in September of 1998. A final decision on a St. Croix River Crossing had not been made at the time of completion of this Transportation Plan but it is definite the location would not be the 2,900 foot bridge that originated in Oak Park Heights and was originally proposed by MnDOT. The other bridge crossing alternative is proposed for areas north of Oak Park Heights and south of the existing lift bridge in Stillwater. The City of Oak Park Heights has played a key role in the alternatives planned for the St. Croix River Crossing and will continue with planning for a bridge and related improvements to Highways 36 and 95. STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM Four areas of the community have been programmed for street reconstruction. A map of the reconstruction program is found in the transportation section of the Inventory. Areas in green on the map were completed in 1994 -1997 and included the widening of the streets and installation of new curb and gutter. Areas in red on the map include widening of streets and new curb and gutter including residential areas north of Highway 36 and in lower Oak Park Heights. This roadway reconstruction could take place in 1999 or in 2000, depending upon City Council direction. ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS /MAINTENANCE While the Transportation Plan addresses the City's roadway system in regard to functional adequacy, it must be realized that the success of the system goes no farther than the condition of the streets. Hence, active and preventative maintenance of the City's street system is considered to be of prime importance. The City's yearly update of a Capital Improvement Plan which addresses transportation facilities and maintenance, is seen as the key element in assuring a comprehensive program. is OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 40 TRANSPORTATION PLAN PEDESTRIAN /BICYCLE FACILITIES The City has placed an emphasis on development of trail systems as the community has growth to the west along Highway 36. The City is interested in creating a well planned and efficient system of bicycle, pedestrian and trailway improvements within the City through the implementation of its Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan. This plan provides for the interconnection of neighborhoods, parks, schools and commercial areas. Emphasis shall be placed on a trail system that connects east to west through Oak Park Heights, provides connections to development and recreational facilities in the Planning Study Area and provides interconnections to trail systems in adjacent communities and regional systems. The Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail System Plan, completed in 1995, is planned to be updated and included in an overall park and trail plan scheduled for completion in 1999. The updated plan shall be based upon the previous plan while emphasizing the following priorities: 1. Include trail routes within and interconnections to the areas planned for annexation. 2. Connections to and linking neighborhoods with the commercial and industrial/ business park areas of the City. 3. Trail routes along major streets that have the most direct access to primary pedestrian destinations. 4. Where trails will connect neighborhoods to schools. 5. Where trails will serve commuter destinations. 6. Where trails lead to parks, playfields, and other recreational facilities. 7. Where trails will link together separate portions of the Oak Park Heights' sidewalks and trail systems with each other. 8. Where trails provide access to transit routes and bus stops. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 41 TRANSPORTATION PLAN RAIL FACILITIES The City of Oak Park Heights is served by the Union Pacific Railroad which serves the Northern States Power Plant. North of Oak Park Heights, this line turns into the Minnesota Transportation Museum Line and is utilized by the Minnesota Zephyr, which offers short trip dining rides along the St. Croix River. Within the Planning Study Area, a large portion of the area is served by the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. This railroad line could be a valuable asset for development of industrial and business /warehouse uses in the area. AIRPORTS /AVIATION The Minneapolis /St. Paul International Airport serves as the region's major airport for passenger and cargo service. Two smaller airports serve Oak Park Heights. The Lake Elmo Airport and the Forest Lake Airport accommodate corporate and small aircraft as well as the recreational air needs of area residents. These critical air links for passenger and freight service are seen as important in the City's continuing economic development efforts. There are currently no airport, heliport or seaplane surface water areas established within the City of Oak Park Heights. Further, the City of Oak Park Heights does not fall within any of the aircraft noise or safety zones of the Minneapolis -St. Paul International Airport or the Lake Elmo Airport. As such, the guidelines of the Aviation Chapter of the Regional Blueprint do not apply to Oak Park Heights at this time. If areas of Baytown Township are annexed, the City may then be subject to noise and safety zones resulting from the proximity to the Lake Elmo Airport. The City would amend its plan and address at that time to provide the necessary aviation related protections. PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICE Public transit needs of the community are primarily served by the Metropolitan Council Transit Operations (MCTO) and St. Croix Valley Transit. The current level of service provides critical links between housing, commercial and service providers and jobs. The City will need to continue to be involved with the transit operators in the community to assure the transit needs of the City and region are met. As development occurs in the areas to be annexed, routes or demand -based service methods may need to be adjusted or added as necessary. Additionally, service to the City's industrial parks and potential OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 42 TRANSPORTATION PLAN expanded neighborhoods in the study area will need to be monitored. The public transit systems must be continually reviewed to assure safe, convenient and affordable service to all areas and to link with overall transportation network of the area. Transit systems are important for all residents but must also assure that service is available for those who may have no other alternative forms of transportation such as the elderly, students, disabled and low income individuals and families. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 43 TRANSPORTATION PLAN OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 44 I r ► __ 111 _ ■■_ c_ ■ ��' ;� ��' � �rll� ■_ i � 11111 ■It ■�11 •— ., .1 ,' ' , _rt•�■i 11 ■111 � ` ': �� - I� Ali �� : ■ J � m ■nm ■n■I � �� \ - � � I 1111 � 1 ■� �. � 1 L� \! �I ■�I ..1 � �.. � " �..� .l��_ °I,, -• till � _ 1u ■ ■u111u1u■N1■■11�� �-. -" ■:7 � - � �� ♦ ► 11n11 ■ ■�■ ILI 1 ♦ ;% /� i • � , _ _ ✓�' �:; ��� ■.1111p� a ■�I' CI■���� ■ 11111 1 1 1111111111 ■ �- �•� i-�• �� i �� i C��L1 ~ iV�� : � 111111■. ■/O■� 1111 /�„�- i►� 1�,� ���'�111�■ � 1 � ��� �� 1/ V . 111111■ �� � \ � �� 1111111\ O1 /� /� 11 1'� � ® .•.. �� ► tii _ ► � u�D,o� ♦ . 110 /.� ■ \ - �I _ , �� r A ' r � * 1l1l1l ll r ' � ♦•� �� �� 1 / 111111111\ � � _ 1111111111 ►fall ` � r11111 �� � gym■ n■ . , I =��_ � - � ..:111: = =: ••• =- - -• � -- ■111 = =_ 111 rr ► ■11111. ■■ ■ � _ � �- r �► �� 111 =___ =_ =_ _= �_- ' �•• +�� ■�� � ■y ��� ► , � �C' . � � � � ■ � : _ __ -_ __ •�� �� ��` '� � � - ��� � Iii ��° - -- - -•. . �;Vliu ME 20 Mal Mai IN I IM EM - K; y Community Facilities Plan { COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN INTRODUCTION Community facilities include those lands, buildings, or services and systems which are provided on a public or semi - public basis in the interest of or benefit to the residents of the community. Their importance should not be underestimated in that they are offered as a necessity for sustaining life within the environment and are therefore, a major contributor to the quality and safety of living in the City. In order to enhance the quality of life within Oak Park Heights, it is fundamental that adequate community facilities include parks, open space, administrative offices, and public utilities. Public utilities are an important factor in regulating development of particular areas of the City and the areas programmed for annexation. Requiring that utilities are present or easily extended prior to subdivision approval can prevent "leap frog" or premature development. Fair and equitable assessment policies for landowners and developers are also a necessary element of utility extension. Government buildings and facilities, such as parks, play a major role in providing necessary community amenities and in projecting a positive image for the City. These facilities reflect Oak Park Heights' concern and dedication to provide its residents with a quality living environment where recreational opportunities are abundant and a high standard of living is projected. A map showing the existing community facility locations is found in the Inventory section of this Comprehensive Plan. PUBLIC UTILITIES Water In 1998, the City's water system was studied by the City's Engineer, Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik and Associates, to determine the adequacy of the various components and to develop a plan for the near term and ultimate needs of the City. The report, entitled "Water Supply and Distribution Plan, Oak Park Heights, Minnesota ", anticipates a served population to grow to 7,500 people by the year 2020. Oak Park Heights currently pumps 550,000 gallons of water on an average day and 1.4 million gallons on peak days. The City obtains its raw water from two wells and two elevated storage facilities with a total storage capacity of 750,000 gallons. To accommodate growth, the water study proposes four new Jordan Aquifer wells, expansion of the existing water distribution system, one new OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 47 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN ground storage tank and booster station with a total capacity of 2.0 million gallons. Based upon the results and analysis of the water study, the City is to implement the following: 1. Initiate the feasibility study for Well 3. 2. Expedite acquisition of sites for wells, booster station, storage facilities and any easements. 3. Monitor water quality and consumer complaints to screen out problems with high iron and manganese concentrations and insure compliance with drinking water quality standards. 4. Annually review the Capital Improvement Program and water charge system to better serve community development needs. 5. Update the Water Supply and Distribution Plan every five to seven years. 6. Revise the City's existing lateral benefit, connection and area charge system in accordance with the improvements recommended in the Water Supply and Distribution Plan. 7. Continue preparing a well head protection plan in accordance with State requirements. Begin hydrogeologic reconnaissance to determine feasibility for well fields. The complete text of the Water Supply and Distribution Plan is found as an Appendix of the Comprehensive Plan. SANITARY SEWER As a part of this Comprehensive Plan, the City's Engineer - Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik Inc. - has developed a Sanitary Sewer Plan based upon the Proposed Land Use Plan map. The City has planned its sewer extensions in the past to serve the areas now in Lake Elmo and Baytown Township but programmed to be part of Oak Park Heights. The Sanitary Sewer Plan is found as an Appendix of the Comprehensive Plan. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 48 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN i STORM SEWER The existing City is currently served by a storm sewer drainage system. A storm water drainage plan, completed by the City's Engineer Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik and Associates, was approved in 1996 for the area west of Oakgreen Avenue. With continuing development in this area, the City is implementing the storm water plans for this area. The Planning Study Area currently has a system of ditches, ponds and wetland facilities to address storm water drainage. As the Planning Study Area is annexed, the City Engineer will work with the watershed districts and County on planning for adequate storm water systems. The City will utilize existing drainageways, ponds, and wetlands to the extent possible to minimize the cost and impact of storm water systems and the high cost of facilities in the ground. GOVERNMENT FACILITIES AND BUILDINGS Administration The City of Oak Park Heights has planned well in developing and utilizing the City Hall facility. The administrative offices, which includes the City Council chambers, the Public Works facility, and the Oak Park Heights Police Department, was remodeled in 1998 and will continue to serve the present and a much larger community for many years. There would be room at this site to accommodate a second fire station of the Bayport Fire Department which serves all of Oak Park Heights. Police and Fire Protection Police services are provided by the Oak Park Heights Police Department. Fire protection services are provided by the Bayport Fire Department, which consists of volunteer fire fighters. The departments are currently adequately staffed and equipped. As development occurs in the areas programmed for annexation, the City will need to monitor the needs of the police and fire departments and assure adequate staffing, equipment and facilities are provided. The City should continue to work with the Cities of Bayport and Stillwater and their Fire Departments to look at the needs for fire stations, especially to serve the westerly portions of Oak Park Heights and Stillwater. The City has, in the past, proposed the possibility of a fire station at the Oak Park Heights City Hall. That issue may be revisited as the area communities continue to grow. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 49 i COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN Park and Trail Facilities The City of Oak Park Heights maintains a park system which contains four public parks with a total of nearly 80 acres. The park planned as part of the Valley Senior Services Alliance project is to consist of approximately 24 acres and will be completed during 1999/2000. There are no existing park facilities within the areas programmed to be annexed, although the Department of Natural Resources property, directly south of Brekke Park, holds significant potential for expansion of park facilities and possible golf course development. Additionally, the City is working with Northern States Power to develop a portion of the ash disposal facility property into an area for ballfields and an amphitheater. The development, not programed until after the year 2000, would tie into Valley View Park and combine the active and passive facilities into one coordinated recreational area. The Parks Commission will develop a park system plan in 1999 to guide the future planning and developments of the park system in Oak Park Heights. The existing Comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Plan, completed in 1995, will be updated and incorporated into the park plan. As an additional project, the Commission is reviewing the park dedication requirements to insure that adequate dedication /cash is being derived during the subdivision process. Park Classification System The future park lands within the community should be planned under a park classification system. Using the identification system to program the level of development for each of the eventual parks, will assist the City in planning for and scheduling the funding for completion of the facilities. Also, planning for locations and types of park facilities will maximize the use of park dedication. Developers will be required to dedicate land where parks are identified and cash if the development does not directly impact proposed park land. A park classification system is intended to serve as a guide to planning, not as a blueprint. Sometimes more than one component may occur within the same site, particularly with regard to a specialized use within a larger park. Based upon national standards, a park system, at minimum, should be comprised of a core system of park lands with a total of approximately 10 acres of open space per 1,000 population. A listing and short description of park classifications is as follows: OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 50 � ti COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN Mini -Parks Use: Specialized facilities serving a limited population or specific group such as tot lots for small children Population Served: Toddlers through age nine Desirable Size: One acre or less Site Characteristics: Within neighborhoods, in close proximity to intensive residential developments Neiahborhood Plavaround Use: Designed to provide mainly passive activities with some active short-term activities Population Served: Ages 5 to 15, with informal recreation for groups of all ages Desirable Size: 1 to 5 acres Site Characteristics: Open space for spontaneous play, play areas for both pre- school and school age children, multiple -use paved areas, limited field games, small court games, ice rinks, within easy walking /biking distance Neiahborhood Parks Use: Area for designated active and passive recreation areas Population Served: Focus upon ages 5 through 39 with emphasis upon ages 5 through 18 Desirable Size: 5 to 10 acres Site Characteristics: Suited for multi -use development, easily accessible to neighborhood population, geographically centered with safe walking and bike access, may include school facilities Community Plavfields Use: A large recreation area with primarily athletic facilities designed to serve older children and adults Population Served: All persons with focus upon ages 20 to 39 Desirable Size: 10 to 25 acres Site Characteristics: Athletic complex including lighted court and field games, community center or indoor recreation facility, swimming pool, ice rink, capacity for special events, must include support elements such as restrooms, drinking water, parking, lighting, etc. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 51 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN Community Parks Use: Area of diverse environmental quality which may include areas suited to intense recreational facilities such as athletic complexes as well as passive type areas, depends largely upon the site location, suitability and community need Population Served: All ages, toddler to retiree, entire community for cities up to 25,000 Desirable Size: 20 to 35+ acres Site Characteristics: Provides for a combination of intensive and non - intensive development ranging from play equipment to trails, may include natural features, such as water bodies or forested land, must include support elements such as restrooms, drinking water, parking, lighting, etc. Natural /Conservancy Areas Use: Protection and management of the natural /cultural environment with recreational use as a secondary objective Desirable Size: Sufficient to protect the resource and accommodate desired recreational uses Site Characteristics: Variable, depending upon the resource being protected Linear Parks/Trails Use: Area developed for one or more varying modes of recreational travel, may include other activities such as sitting areas, exercise courses, play areas, landscaping, etc. Population Served: All of community Desirable Size: Sufficient width to provide for specified activities, maximum usage, and setbacks from streets or residential areas Site Characteristics: Built or natural corridors such as utility rights -of -way, bluff lines, vegetation patterns, and roads that link other components of the recreation system or community facilities such as parks, schools, and residential areas By recognizing the classification of each of the park facilities, the City can plan how the community and individual neighborhood park needs are being met. The classification will assist the City in planning for park improvements as well as the need for new park facilities. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 52 l r • Administration Plan ADMINISTRATION PLAN INTRODUCTION Administration and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and related supportive ordinances are an important aspect of the development of the plan. In essence, unless the plan and related development tools are constantly referenced and utilized in combination with long range community decision - making, the efforts spent in their development become wasted. Governing, community identity, public relations, zoning and subdivision regulations, and capital improvement planning are issues that must be addressed as a result of the comprehensive planning process. The issues listed below are seen as the most critical elements of an administration planning program and should receive priority in implementation. Annexation and jurisdictional issues will also be discussed as it relates to cooperation with the Cities of Lake Elmo and Bayport and with Baytown Township. GOVERNING The governing function of the City is to provide an efficient level of public service, assure that there is an adequate tax base and funding sources, and provide current and effective plans, programs, codes and ordinances. The City must provide a high level and quality of services while not placing an undue tax burden on property owners. Additionally, elected and appointed officials and staff must be able to communicate with citizens and facilitate the level of public participation and input to provide an effective system of government. Community Identity Community identity has been identified as a significant issue for the City of Oak Park Heights. Stillwater, being the larger community with its historic downtown, is seen as the only city in the area. In recent years, the City of Oak Park Heights has made a greater effort in promoting recognition and identification. Use of the City name and logos on water towers and other public structures has helped the City to be recognized as another jurisdiction. Construction of welcome signs at the primary entrances to the community is seen as a way of further promoting recognition. Continued use of the area newspapers, cable TV and the City newsletter are all ways to assist in promoting and identifying Oak Park Heights in the St. Croix Valley. Promotion of the City parks, and its developing lineal trail system that will provide access to other adjacent cities' trail systems and the regional trail system, is seen as a significant way of introducing people to Oak Park Heights. The City Community Development Department will continue to work on ways to promote the OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 53 ADMINISTRATION PLAN community, its residential neighborhoods, and its business and industrial sites through the use of brochures, videos, and personal contacts. Public Relations Oak Park Heights has an ongoing policy of providing effective public education regarding City activities. Such programs have numerous benefits, including greater public accountability and an increased awareness of City functions. Additionally, good communication with the other municipalities, area townships, the County and regional levels of government will be vital in this growing, diverse metropolitan area. To continue and improve the lines of communication between the City government and its citizens, Oak Park Heights should continue to use announcements, newspapers, and other forms of public media such as cable access. Such communications shall be especially important as the community prepares to expand and develop within the areas programmed for annexation. Public support on projects or expansion within annexation areas will only be possible if the public is informed of various area plans and an open forum of opinions and comments is coordinated. The City will also continue to develop and enhance its relationship with other jurisdictions in the area and region. The City will work with the Cities of Bayport, Stillwater, Lake Elmo and other jurisdictions to continue promoting joint provision of services and coordination of activities. The quality of life of the overall area can only be enhanced if all the governments and public /private organizations work together to promote and develop the metropolitan area. Zoning and Subdivision Regulations Obviously, a community's plans, programs, codes and ordinances are of value only if they are implemented and kept current. When such plans and ordinances become outdated, the City's ability to respond to community goals is hampered. To ensure that such plans are kept up to date, the City should regularly update its plans and codes as necessary. The City has consistently kept its zoning and subdivision regulations current with the changing face of the community. In 1995, the City completed a major update of its Zoning Ordinance and has amended the code since to add Planning Commission processes and a Central Business District. The City has also identified a need to separate out the institutional uses from the O, Open Space District and create an institutional zoning district for such uses as schools, churches and the prison. The Planning Commission has indicated that this district will be analyzed and reviewed for possible adoption in 1999. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 54 L r ADMINISTRATION PLAN The City will maintain undeveloped but planned properties within the O, Open Space until such time as a development proposal is received. The Comprehensive Plan Land Use Plan Map will be utilized to guide development and redevelopment of properties within the City. Potential zoning of properties will be identified in the Neighborhood Planning District section of this Comprehensive Plan Development Framework. The park dedication requirements of the Subdivision Ordinance have been identified as requiring an update so as to provide adequate land and cash for park development. The Planning Commission and Parks Commission have made the park dedication requirements update as a priority for 1999. Capital Improvement Planning The City of Oak Park Heights lacks an effective system of capital improvement planning that is scheduled or updated on a yearly basis. The Capital Improvement Plan is essentially a long range spending plan used to guide the community's expenditures according to need and the community's ability to pay. The program forces the City to look toward the future to anticipate its needs before it becomes evident. In order to fund such items, as physical improvement or extensions of roadway and utilities to the City, the Capital Improvements Plan can be used as as a planning tool that will be especially important as the City expands to the south and west. The City will develop a Capital Improvement Program in 1999 that will be attached as an Appendix to this Comprehensive Plan. Economic Development The economic health of the City has been strong in recent years and local industry is in a period of growth and expansion. Additional promotion of commercial and industrial development within the City is seen as as a way of creating jobs and increasing the tax base and financial resources of the community. Commercial and industrial uses typically provide as a higher return in property tax revenues and are proportionally less expensive for the City to service. Continued diversification of the industrial base is seen as as a way of lessening the dependence on as a few major employers and facilitates the attraction of similar or "spin off' industry. To expand the commercial and industrial tax base, thus reducing the tax burden on the householder or renter, a continuing, aggressive program of economic development is advocated for the community. This can in part be facilitated by the Comprehensive Plan is in providing appropriate locations for industrial development which is beneficial to the OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 55 ADMINISTRATION PLAN community and within the service capability. The Land Use Plan indicates new areas within the annexation areas for industrial and business /warehousing expansion. Additionally, the City has created a Community Development Department to assist in the marketing of Oak Park Heights through an aggressive economic development program. The City and its Economic Development Authority have the option of utilizing the following tools in promoting the City and providing assistance to projects that will meet the City's short and long term planning objectives: 1. Promotion and marketing of commercial, business warehouse and industrial sites. 2. Creation of a business resource center. 3. Use of tax increment financing. 4. Business relocation and expansion assistance. 5. Providing linkages with local financial institutions. 6. Direct and indirect grants through the creation of revolving grant funds. i OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 56 l r = Neighborhood x e Planning Districts NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS INTRODUCTION To facilitate detailed examination of development prospects for all areas of the community, Oak Park Heights has been divided into 19 neighborhood planning districts. The location of these planning districts is illustrated on the map following this introduction. The planning district boundaries were established by using the location of similar land uses and physical barriers. This section of the plan outlines planning - related issues for the individual planning districts. Planning District 1 consists of a small island within the City of Stillwater between Upper 63rd Street North and 65th Street North which includes a church, businesses and single family residential uses. Planning District 2 includes the bluff neighborhood south of 64th Street North and east of Panama Avenue North with single family and multiple family residential uses. Planning District 3 is the area east of Highway 95 that includes the Allen S. King generating plant, the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission's treatment facility, and the Sunnyside Marina and Condominiums. Planning District 4 is located north of Highway 36 on either side of Osgood Avenue consisting of mixed residential types, businesses, a cemetery and a church. Planning District 5 includes the St. Croix Mall and businesses west of Osgood Avenue, as well as the residential properties to Oakgreen Avenue. Planning District 6 is the predominantly single family neighborhood between Oakgreen and Osgood Avenues to the southerly border of Oak Park Heights. The City Hall facility is located in this planning district. Planning District 7 consists of the area south of Highway 36 and west of Osgood Avenue that includes a mix of residential housing densities, a church and business near the intersection of Osgood and Highway 36. Planning District 8 includes the Northern States Power ash facility and Valley View Park. Planning District 9, which is south of Highway 36 and west of Highway 95, includes the area known as lower Oak Park Heights. The area contains a mixture of residential uses and businesses. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 57 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS Planning District 10, east of Osgood Avenue, consists of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility. Planning District 11 is a developing area of the City which will consist of the Central Business District, the Valley Senior Services Alliance project, and the existing single family River Hills neighborhood. The area is south of Highway 36 and west of Oakgreen Avenue. Planning District 12, south of 58th Street and east of Highway 5, consists of the Stillwater Area High School and the Autumn Ridge neighborhood. Planning District 13 includes the developing commercial area west of Highway 5 and south of Highway 36. Planning District 14, south of Highway 36 and west of Highway 5, consists of the Kern Center, a developing business warehouse area. Planning District 15, west of Highway 5 and Kern Center, and currently within the City of Lake Elmo, is planned for a mixture of business and residential uses. Planning District 16, south of the existing City boundary and west of Oakgreen Avenue, is currently a part of Baytown Township and is planned for low density residential uses. Planning District 17, south of the existing City boundary between Northbrook Boulevard and Stagecoach Trail, is currently a part of Baytown Township and is planned for low density residential uses, park facilities, a golf course and open space and commercial uses. Planning District 18 is currently part of Baytown Township and is planned for low and mid density residential, business warehouse, commercial and industrial uses. Planning District 19 included the area south of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad between Northbrook Boulevard and Osgood Avenue and is currently part of Baytown Township. This area, planned for all low density estate residential uses, is a long term area for potential annexation and development. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 58 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 1 • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 61 • -- 65TH STREET w z W a 7 Y Z W a o z 1 � OAK PARK ELFMENTt4RY w z z LU 0 0 0 0 0 O PROPOSED LAND USE 0 Low Density Estate Residential i CBD District Boundary 0 Low Density Residential W Commercial Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional Wetland /Ponding Areas ® High Density Residential ' Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway BusinessM/arehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 50 0 50 100 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space • PLANNING DISTRICT 1 NAC City of Oak Park Heights 62 � i ti NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 1 District 1 is unique in that it is physically separated and land- locked from the rest of the City of Oak Park Heights by the City of Stillwater. Land use in this small neighborhood consists of single family homes, church property and limited business activity along Osgood Avenue. Contiguous development within Stillwater is compatible with land use in Oak Park Heights and consists of a variety of residential types, an elementary school, the Washington County Human Services offices and a cemetery. Primary access to this area is available from Osgood Avenue and 65th Street North. Primary recommendations for this planning district are to continue to maintain the neighborhood as it is and to support updates and remodeling to the businesses and residences to continue their viability. The current zoning classifications for the district are not proposed to change. To protect both communities, Oak Park Heights and Stillwater should work closely together to ensure compatibility of land use and performance and maintenance standards. • • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 63 I 64TH STREET \ W Z W � UPPER 63RD STREET a Q OAI� .RK N I ELEMENTARY a -� 63RD STREET NDr WASHINGTON COUNTY O / GOVERNMENT CENTER $ / PROPOSED LAND USE = Low Density Estate Residential = CBD ® District Boundary = Low Density Residential = Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential ® Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential Industrial N �J Quasi - Public Facilities ® Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space NA • _ - PLANNING DISTRICT 2 City of Oak Park Heights 64 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS i PLANNING DISTRICT 2 District 2 is a residential neighborhood situated on top of the river bluff and where early development was influenced by adjacent Stillwater. The neighborhood is defined on two sides by physical barriers in the form of Highway 36 and the river bluff to the east and an elementary school and the Washington County Government Center to the west. The primary land use in the neighborhood consists of older single family homes and a multiple family housing complex south of Upper 61 st Street North. There are no vacant parcels in the district and the current zoning classifications are appropriate for the existing land uses. The combination of Paris Avenue, Beach Road and Lookout Trail provide the neighborhood with fairly direct access to the remainder of the City's other neighborhoods. Preservation and maintenance of the historic overlook along Lookout Trail is seen as one of the priorities for this area. Additionally, the City will work with MnDOT to preserve the Beach Road overpass or a reasonable alternative location. Development of an off -road pedestrian access in conjunction with a new Beach Road bridge is also a priority for the City. Two issues should be addressed in regards to future planing for this district. The immediate concern should be the preservation of the present housing stock. The City should be actively involved with the Washington County Housing and Redevelopment Authority and with other agencies to ensure availability and access to programs to assist homeowners and landlords with maintenance and rehabilitation. Additionally, the City has programmed this area for a street reconstruction program. Continual investment in regards to streets, curb and gutter will also ensure the viability and investment in the neighborhood. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 65 I W" fil I1 \ \ PROPOSED LAND USE = Low Density Estate Residential = CBD District Boundary = Low Density Residential ~ Commercial -- Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional -- — High Density Residential 1 Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway BusinessNVarehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 300 0 300 600 Feet - Government Facilities � , Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space s • PLANNING DISTRICT 3 N A City of Oak Park Heights 66 i is NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 3 District 3 encompasses the river flats between the St. Croix River and the Union Pacific railway tracks. While the land use in this district is primarily devoted to the Northern States Power Allen S. King electrical generating plant, other substantial land uses include a yacht club, marina and condominiums. The balance of the development consists of public land uses including the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission's treatment facility. 'The land uses in the area as well as the corresponding zoning classifications for the area appropriate and do not need to be amended. There is no vacant property in the district. The City will continue to work with NSP to ensure that the Allen S. King Plant and the surrounding area are well maintained and that any potential pollution areas are addressed. Additionally, the City will work with NSP to examine potential reuse or development options for the Allen S. King Plant site if and when an end to the useful life of the plant is identified. The majority of the development within the district is included in the 100 year floodplain limits and is governed by the River Impact District requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. The City of Oak Park Heights has adopted the following State regulations by reference which affect all development in District 3: • 1. Standards and Criteria for the Lower St. Croix Natural Scenic Riverway in Minnesota. 2. State -Wide Standards and Criteria for Management of Floodplain Areas of Minnesota. 3. State -Wide Standards for Management of Shoreland Areas. 4. Wetland Conservation Act of 1991. 5. St. Croix River Regional Flood Analysis The primary access to the property is off of Highway 95. Depending upon the decision made regarding the St. Croix River Crossing and the related intersection changes to Highway 95 and Highway 36, the area could be affected with roadway improvements. It is not anticipated that the existing land uses would be impacted by roadway realignments or intersection construction. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has plans to install a boat access on the St. Croix between the treatment facility and the Northern States Power properties. Due to the change in plans for the river crossing, the DNR has also held on its plans. It is anticipated that the DNR will complete its boat access after the year 2000. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 67 I s OAK A K - - -- - ELE E TARY L- �. WASHINGTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER 7 \ O , a O K w 0 O N X I W, O O t ¢ STATE HIGHWAY 36 _ 1 - • l -- I I � ^ it i PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential i CBD District Boundary F Low Density Residential ® Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential ® Business /Residential Transitional — High Density Residential - Industrial Quasi - Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse N _ School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space —� • PLANNING DISTRICT 4 N N� City of Oak Park Heights 68 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 4 District 4 is located north of Highway 36 on either side of Osgood Avenue. Land use within the district consists of mixed residential, retail and other business, a cemetery and a church. Two single family properties with access to Osgood Avenue are located between the commercial and higher density properties. The west side of Osgood Avenue is subject to redevelopment which will likely include these single family homes. The Proposed Land Use Plan map indicates commercial uses to replace the existing single family uses. The row of single family houses along Highway 36 and to the south of the Washington County Government Center are programmed to remain as such on the Proposed Land Use Plan. Possible redevelopment of this property by Washington County is anticipated but not expected in the near future. If the County proposes to expand into this area, Comprehensive Plan and zoning amendments will be required. Redevelopment of the funeral home property east of Osgood Avenue is also anticipated. The Proposed Land Use Plan indicates reuse of this property for retail commercial or service business uses. The other commercial and residential uses are not expected to change and the zoning classifications for this area are appropriate. The primary access to this area is provided by Osgood Avenue and the frontage road of Highway 36. The City is working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to revise its frontage road plan at the Highway 36 /Osgood intersection. Preliminary plans indicate the location of the frontage roads in relation to Osgood Avenue being moved north of their current point. The plans may have the effect of providing the impetus for redevelopment in those areas adjacent to Osgood Avenue. A diagram showing the plans for the redesigned frontage road is found on the following page. Depending upon MnDOT's schedule for this roadway improvement, construction could likely start on this project in 2000. MnDOT has indicated that the plans for this intersection could change so that Highway 36 is a fully separated highway. The City will work with MnDOT in the development of these plans and to analyze the impact to the affected commercial areas. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 69 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS ; �� ' L - - - i iFl I HOUSE F — T' _ l J 2 +140 ! 2 +12 +1 - - 2+ 80 2+060 +0 "2t0.ZQ — __ —, 'Z+ 00 x. - - 1-4 I i/ - ,C r " . r I _ °, i - - ° - -- •off . -_, ,���_� I STORE } 01, -- - - --- L 1W .d I ` DEALERSHIP I 1 i 1 t J V i'40 ° /j I 1 ; ' GAS STATION a i' O i `� I +Y 1 l —t �I 1 -- -- — ------ ------ - - i - - - ---- - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - ----- - - -- - - -- - - -- - -- - - -- . - - - - - _. ___.: -_- -- -- - - -- - - -- - - -- - -= -- - _ - - -- - - - - - -- - -- - - - -- - - -- - - -- - - - -- - - -- - - -- - - - -- - -- - - -- - - -- - - -- - - -- - - - -- - - -- - Trunk =- F-tigF+wa�__36 - - -• -• - -' - --- - - -- - -- - -- -- - - -. -_- -- ___ _ - -- � - -_- -_ -: NORMWW QUADPAW Bonestroo WON Rosene Anaerllk d OAK PARK HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA FIGURE 2 Associates Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue Frontage Rood Alignments r a.. • a .<«»e. 551 �1103.d.9 3- 17-96 10.50:53 am OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 70 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS -- — - - -- i r , — — - — —_ i -14f° °i APARTMENT BLDG. i I �• 2 -- - - -- — - I 1 ALL ra F` j I V ' i ti I FUNERAL HOME \ipp�' 1 `�` ' .�\., , -� -`\ i i j flj I . I i .O ° \ - - �. b `_� rte` 1 i - ` • - �'f20o 1+22o 1+240 t +zed — I --- - -- -- - - --- --= k -.- •_ - bo MFF M — -- — ----- ----- trunk Hiqhway 36 - -- =� NORTHEAST QUADRANT 10 Bo Roseetroo esns Anderllk 6 OAK PARK HEIGHTS. MINNESOTA FIGURE T Aeeoctetee Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue Frontage Road Alignment 55141103.d.g 3 -17 -90 10,50:53 am OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 71 I _ '"'" ■�" iii i�ir ■ ■��1� ® � 11�����■ ����� � ■ 57TH STREET �■ � ;� �r ��� �� �� �������■ �r■� is ■ P ROPO SED Density = Low Density Estate Residential = CBD District Boundary Medium Density Residential Business/Residential Transitional High Density Residential Industrial Highway Quasi-Public Facilities Sch ool - s Park Facilities/Open Space 11 1 200 411 -- Governm • •- . • Estate • •- Space PLANNING DISTRICT 5 NA, C City of Oa Park Heights IL NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS i PLANNING DISTRICT 5 Planning District 5 consists of the St. Croix Mall, retail and service businesses, single family residential, open areas along the Northern States Power transmission line and Swager Park. The district is completely developed, although there are numerous opportunities for redevelopment and rehabilitation. The St. Croix Mall, traditionally the retail focus of the community, must redefine its emphasis to provide office space, services and entertainment uses. Currently, the City is working with the mall owners in planning for remodeling options and to determine the right mix of service, entertainment, and office space. The low density uses in the neighborhood are stable, with no changes in land use necessary. Along the Highway 36 frontage road, a number of single family homes have been converted to commercial use or are a combination of commercial and residential. This transitional use is seen as positive in that it provides a reasonable buffer to the single family neighborhood to the south. The single family properties along Oakgreen Avenue, north of 58th Street, are seen as an area for potential office building redevelopment. In that these properties are not part of a larger neighborhood and access directly off of . Oakgreen Avenue, they are not seen as long term viable residential uses. To the north of the 58th Street extension to City Hall, the area is recommended to be rezoned from 0, Open Space to R -B, Residential Business Transition. To the south, R -1, Single Family Residential is recommended. Swager Park provides an important neighborhood function with its limited area and equipment. The Parks Commission has plans to upgrade the facilities in the park over a period of years starting in 1999. The area behind the City Hall facility has been developed as part of the lineal park concept along the Northern States Power transmission line. This lineal park and the developed pedestrian and bicycle trail help tie the community and its recreational facilities together. The open area in the southeast quadrant of the intersection of Highway 36 and Oakgreen Avenue has been purchased by MnDOT and will become part of the improved intersection. As part of the Osgood /Highway 36 intersection improvements, the frontage road would be realigned nearer the St. Croix Mall. It is anticipated that no existing buildings would need to be removed although a portion of the parking lot would need to be reconfigured. The City and MnDOT plan to begin implementation of the frontage road and realignment in 1999. Redevelopment of the Osgood and Highway 36 intersection to a separated crossing could significantly affect the existing structures in the area. The City will work with MnDOT in determining the extent of the land to be acquired and impact to this commercial area as plans are developed. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 73 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS 0 A map of the proposed realignment is found on the following page. Additionally, MnDOT has plans to realign the Highway 36 /Oakgreen interchange. A graphic of that plan is found on a following page. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 74 L r NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS Trunk Highway 36 s 1 � ` -- i III ( . s -- 1 WALL .J I I i I STRIP MALL k- - " . - - - - - -- -- ° - -- - 1. i - ?�3.� -- l --- - - - - -- - _ m Q - - -- -- —� � OPTI 2/ ,, I -a___ _ _., t , L � 1 \ : EA14ER- IIF� f t, Q ' I f — BANK I o ce 1, { _ ? - _I 3t/lu0 _ 3 +Q -L_ Sa l — _ -- 3+ - • I — __ 3+020 5 9 Fi St et ° ri - - - *e.�► - �i : goo ' =- c_ % _ JJJ I I i I I 11 � I i I, , j � I • I i l � T QUADRAW Ronealroo oe.n• A FIGURE 3 Associates OAK PARK HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA ° a � eoclelea Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue Frontage Road Alignments 551+1103.d.9 3 -17 -9e 10:50:53 am 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 75 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS ------ ---------- - - - - -- - - - -- - -- --------------- ;�.- - -- - ------- yam__= --IIS Highway 36 - - - -- - - - - - -- - - - _ - ; = ='� - - /, x111 P —� w n _ - - - - L ,11 II a ,; /'/ ' I ter. • .�' R,, ,61,Ia } ! ! � :� ! — m t I'fh uj I i, r. '• 0 � II Z Oakgreen /Highway 36 Intersection c c'= > Not to Scale a� a� L M Source: Minnesota Department of Transportation O OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 76 Id NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 6 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 77 I 57T TREET PPER 56TH STREET �1 3 6 55TH STREET BREKKE PARK w m 54TH STREET • 53RD STREET PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential CBD District Boundary Low Density Residential Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities 7 Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities , Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space — Mnn � PLANNING DISTRICT 6 N � City of Oak Park Heights 78 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 6 Planning District 6 includes the largest neighborhood of single family homes in the City. Also, the City Hall and Brekke Park are included in this district. The single family area is completely developed and zoned R -1, Single Family Residential. No changes to the existing zoning classifications are anticipated. In the northwest corner of the district is the City Hall facility. Brekke Park, in the southeastern corner of the district, is a fully developed facility with active and passive recreational uses. The district contains one area for potential redevelopment. The property, along Oakgreen Avenue and south of 58th Street, could be further developed for single family residential or similar uses that are compatible with the existing single family neighborhood. Access to the district is from Oldfield Avenue, Oakgreen Avenue, and Osgood Avenue. The City plans to construct the 57th Street extension from Oakgreen Avenue to the City Hall facility in 1999. The road would be configured so as to provide only one -way traffic to the west, thus enabling access to the westerly side of Oak Park Heights for emergency vehicles and the existing single family neighborhood. A graphic of the extension is provided on a following page. Upon annexation of the DNR property to the south of this district, the City could potentially expand Brekke Park. The expanded area could allow additional area for ballfields and other active play areas. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 79 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS i 0 z D 57TH STREET EXTENSION PLAN N z W Q z 0 too 2W s Y CITY HALL S=As r feet r ----- - - - - -- SS SWA ER PROS A ON � 55 -3w 55_5 ss - -- -3 7TH ST EET; NOI�TH LL 1 I Q 56TH STREET NOF l m LOCATION PLAN OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 80 IL NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 7 • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 81 I � < STATE HIGHWAY 36 • 60TH STREET - _ W z LU I I a z O 58TH STREET LLI Q° 71 j a a ' C I ✓ --1 57TH STREET VALLEY VIEW PARK UPPER 56TH STREET / • I r I I 56TH STREET - REKKE PARK UPPER 55TH STREET VALLEY VIEW PARK ROAD PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential = CBD District Boundary Low Density Residential = Commercial -- Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space —� • PLANNING DISTRICT 7 N, A 4 City of Oak Park Heights 82 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 7 Planning District 7 includes a single family neighborhood, an area of mid and high density residential uses, commercial uses, and a church. Other than a commercial lot along the Highway 36 frontage road, twinhome lots in the East Oaks development and a multiple family lot along Osgood Avenue, the district is completely developed. The commercial lot, although impacted by an existing sewer line, could be developed with office or service related commercial use. The twinhome lots within the East Oaks development are projected to be completely developed by the 1999 building season. A development proposal for a multiple family senior apartment complex and townhomes is proposed and could be completed in 1999 for the area between Upper 56th Street and 58th Street on Osgood Avenue. The church is in the process of remodeling and seeks additional areas for parking. An adjacent lot to the south, but unbuildable due to the Northern States Power transmission line, may serve as an area for additional parking area. The current zoning of the district is appropriate for current and long term uses. The existing apartment complexes on 60th Street must be monitored by the City and should be rehabilitated or redeveloped as necessary. The City should encourage continued private investment to preserve these moderate rate apartments for Oak Park Heights' residents and provide attractive well maintained units. Access to the area is provided primarily by Osgood Avenue. The fourth segment of the Osgood Avenue /Highway 36 intersection is planned for 1999 and should not adversely impact existing land uses. A diagram showing the intersection and how it impacts the district is found on the following page. This area would also be significantly impacted if the plans for this intersection are changed to include a separation from Highway 36. Due to the predominantly residential nature of this district, maintaining access between the residential areas and Valley View Park is seen as a priority. Additionally, the conversion of the Northern States Power ash facility into park uses will provide greater access of the neighborhood to open space and recreational opportunities. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 83 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS - - ------------ - - - -------- - - - - -- - - - - - - - - -- - - - - -- -- _- -- — " -- -" - -- - - -- — - _ - - - --- -- -- - -- -- _--- - -- - --- iL - �•. I ``•�- ` - - -, -:. `�--- �= •4%A�,I�- I I� � 1 1 ; 1 • j U i j OFFICE BLGD. 'WALL i I �__ _ ---- I > 0 ' WALL �— � / -- _. ;t r j�I o 1 0! i J r — i L, J. I SERVICE i 1 ♦rALi! 1 STATION'' a+ o o streq SOUTHEAST QUADRANT � Boneetroo Roeene OAK PARK HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA FIGURE 4 I m Associates nder Highway 36 and Osgood Avenue Frontage Road Alignments gym.•.... a 55141103.d.g 3 -17 -9e lo-.So:53 wn OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 84 L ad NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 8 • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 85 I i • IL I " ATF: uir_uwev as _ 1 1M E O n-L R i �� � VALLEY VIEW PARK PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential CBD District Boundary Low Density Residential Commercial - - Wet ►and /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional -- High Density Residential Industrial Quasi- Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse N School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet Government Facilities � Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space —� • IA W7 PLANNING DISTRICT 8 NA .� C City of Oak Park Heights 86 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 8 Planning District 8 consists primarily of the Northern States Power ash disposal facility and Valley View Park. Additionally, a restaurant and tavern, which is considered a historic roadside inn, is located along the northeast corner of this district with access to the Highway 36 frontage road. No changes to the existing zoning classifications are planned. Northern States Power is currently (1998) in the process of capping off a portion of its ash disposal facility. As the land is filled and capped, it can be utilized for open space and recreational facilities. The City is currently working with Northern States Power to create plans for utilizing the Northern States Power site for ballfields, an amphitheater site, and formal gardens. Use of the Northern States Power site for recreational uses is seen as an ideal expansion of the park and open space facilities existing in Valley View Park to the south. The primary access to the site is from the Highway 36 frontage road, through the Valley View Park access and from the streets within the lower Oak Park Heights neighborhood. As part of the Highway 36 frontage road improvements related to the St. Croix River Bridge Crossing, MnDOT had planned to extend the Highway 36 frontage road to 59th Street • North. The City is working with MnDOT, as part of the revised bridge plans, to assure that this access is maintained. Additionally, the City is interested in keeping an overpass at or near Beach Road to maintain neighborhood access between north and south Oak Park Heights. A large portion of the planning district includes Perro Creek. The City will continue to protect this area within Valley View Park for its scenic beauty and its value as a natural resource and drainageway. Plans for Valley View Park include a bridge spanning Perro Creek to connect the lower Oak Park Heights neighborhood with the park. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 87 ■■ ; 111■■■ JI11111■ ■■ 11 ■1 ■Ili II ■11111■ ■t � �j� ���� ■� INE�l III ■11111 ■11 ■1� 1111111■ 111111■ 1111111111111 ■11� I '•� mill 1i II ■111. • 11111111 `° � - _ -• .;�;� 11111 11111■ E - 11111 .'MC •• _ ••- •. - 11 1 11 •11 -- NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 9 Planning District 9 consists of the area commonly referred to as lower Oak Park Heights. The land uses consist primarily of single family homes, small commercial and light industrial facilities and the open area created by the Minnesota Department of Transportation for construction of the St. Croix River Crossing. It is the intent of the Comprehensive Plan to preserve and protect the existing single family areas of this neighborhood in that it represents the historic beginnings of the community and provides needed moderate income housing for Oak Park Heights residents. The City will work with the Washington County HRA in assuring that programs are available for housing repair and rehabilitation. Additionally, the City has programmed street reconstruction activities for 1999 or 2000 for many of the streets within this district. The City will also continue to enforce its standards related to buildings and property to assure that the neighborhood remains a safe and attractive place to live. A continued investment by the City through its street reconstruction program serves to protect the viability of the neighborhood. Residents of the neighborhood will likely petition the City to rezone the residential areas from R -2, Low and Medium Density Residential to R -1, Single Family Residential. This is seen as a way of preserving the neighborhood as single family and preventing two family and townhome development. The Planning Commission is expected to study this issue in 1999. The area purchased by MnDOT for the St. Croix River Crossing is almost completely cleared of its homes and commercial businesses. The City has rezoned the property O, Open Space to further restrict the potential reuse of the area. Depending upon the bridge location and resulting Highway 36 and 95 intersection, this area will likely be used for roadway construction and the resulting right -of -way. The City may consider reuse of the site for residential uses if a significant portion of the site is not utilized for roadway purposes. The area on Stagecoach Trail between Perro Creek and the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility in Bayport is designated on the Proposed Land Use Plan map for business warehouse uses. An existing industrial /warehousing facility exists in this area as well as five single family homes. It is the intent of the City, through its Economic Development Authority, to eventually convert this area to all business /warehousing uses in that the existing single family homes are detached from the existing neighborhood and adversely impacted by existing land uses. The area is currently zoned I, Industrial and R- 2, Low and Medium Density Residential. The City will consider the Industrial zoning or a possible rezoning to B -W, Business Warehouse. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 89 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS The district is accessed by Highway 95, Stagecoach Trail and Beach Road. The primary transportation issues include the fate of the Beach Road overpass and construction of a Highway 36 frontage road connection to the district from Osgood Avenue. Both of these projects are contingent on the Highway 95 and Highway 36 intersection improvements. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 90 I NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 10 • • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 91 I • VALLEY VIEW PARK ALLEY VIEW PARK R 3TATE OF'I MINIESO I COREMCTIONS rd.Cft,a t . 10 / V e! o U U CO I i PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential CBD District Boundary = Low Density Residential Commercial wetland /Ponding Areas i Medium Density Residential :��, Business /Residential Transitional - -- High Density Residential Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway BusinessNVarehouse School Facilities =77 Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space s • PLANNING DISTRICT 10 N , f M, A77 City of Oak Park Heights 92 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS is PLANNING DISTRICT 10 Planning District 10 consists of the State of Minnesota Correctional Facility and the access road to Valley View Park. The Correctional Facility is expected to remain at an inmate population of 460 after remodeling within the prison has occurred. Major expansion of the facility is not expected at this time, but the City would work closely with the State in programming and planning for any changes in physical size of the structure or inmate population. The prison and Valley View Park is served by Osgood Avenue. No transportation issues are anticipated for this district. 1 0 1 0 OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 93 I I 7P 58TH STREET ET K i \ PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential = CBD District Boundary Low Density Residential = Commercial -- Wetland /Ponding Areas j Medium Density Residential ® Business /Residential Transitional - -- High Density Residential — Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse = School Facilities ® Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet - Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space PLANNING DISTRICT 11 NA(" City of Oak Park Heights 94 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 11 Planning District 11 consists of the area planned for the Central Business District, the Valley Senior Services Alliance project, and the existing River Hills single family neighborhood. This area is seen as the City's major development area in 1999 and 2000. A Central Business District Plan will be developed in 1999 and land acquisition and assembly will begin shortly after plan adoption. As indicated previously, the City will plan for this area to develop as a retail focus with entertainment, service business and housing. The Valley Senior Services Alliance project is a phased project projected over the five years beginning in 1999. A description of the project elements is found in the land use section of the Development Framework. The Valley Senior Services Alliance project has been carefully planned so as to provide adequate separation and screening from residents in the River Hills and Autumn Ridge neighborhoods. The district is well accessed by Highway 36, Norell Avenue, Oakgreen Avenue, and 58th Street. The extension of 58th Street between Norell and Oakgreen Avenues is projected for completion in 1999. The area remaining after installation of 58th Street south to the River Hills neighborhood is planned as park facilities /open space. The City will maintain this area as a lineal park and the location of the 58th Street trail connection to Oakgreen Avenue. The local street system through the first phase of the Valley Senior Service Alliance project is also projected for 1999. As a part of the Valley Senior Service Alliance project, development of a 24 acre park is planned. The park would emphasize passive recreational activities with a picnic shelter, tot lot, sliding hills and walking trails. The sidewalks and trails throughout the Valley Senior Services Alliance project would provide interconnections to the existing trail system along 58th Street and access to the Autumn Ridge and River Hills neighborhoods. Although roadway access had been planned to this area from Autumn Ridge and River Hills, the change in type of housing, resulting from the Valley Senior Services Alliance project dictates that pedestrian and trail access would be more appropriate. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 95 I • MENARDS _ KERN CENTS RAINBOW FOODS 58TH STREET Z _ Z F SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL C� PROPOSED LAND USE 0 Low Density Estate Residential = CBD ® District Boundary 0 Low Density Residential = Commercial -- Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential Industrial N Quasi - Public Facilities ® Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities ® Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet - Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space 1 • PLANNING DISTRICT 12 N � City of Oak Park Heights 96 • NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 12 Planning District 12 includes the Stillwater Area High School and the Autumn Ridge single family neighborhood. The area is almost completely developed except for an area on the east side of the high school property that consists of the school's Environmental Learning Center. The School District has indicated that there is a potential for separating approximately 10 acres of the property for development of low density housing. Roadways within the Valley Senior Services Alliance project has been planned to accommodate access into this area. The Proposed Land Use Plan map does not designate this area for residential use. A request by the School District to develop the property would necessitate an amendment to the district plan. There are no changes to the current zoning designations anticipated for this district. Protection of the Autumn Ridge and Valley Senior Service Alliance neighborhoods from adverse effects of the commercial development north of 58th Street will be a priority. The City will carefully plan for and review all development proposals to control access, land use and proposed screening. The area is accessed by Highway 5 and 58th Street. There are no transportation issues with the current roadway system in place. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 97 • K RN CENTER` _j J� L MENARDS P _ 58TH STR ET ? RAINBOW FOODS / PROPOSED LAND USE 0 Low Density Estate Residential CBD ® District Boundary Low Density Residential Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas L Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional - = High Density Residential Industrial N h Quasi - Public Facilities': Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200400 Feet - Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space OVA • PLANNING DISTRICT 13 N N� City of Oak Park Heights 98 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 13 Planning District 13 includes significant retail and service businesses oriented to Highways 5 and 36 and the frontage road system. The City anticipates continued development of this area with predominantly highway commercial related uses. The Planning Commission will review its commercial zoning districts in 1999 and determine if the uses included in the B -2, General Business District of the Zoning Ordinance are appropriate. The City may consider a refinement of its existing commercial zoning districts or creation of a new zoning district to implement its land use objectives. The commercial areas between the existing Oak Park Ponds development and Norell Avenue will need to be carefully planned to ensure an appropriate transition to the single and mid density neighborhoods to the south of 58th Street. The Comprehensive Plan amendment, approved in 1991, designated areas directly north of 58th Street as a multiple family /business transition area. Particular attention was given to the site design of Oak Park Ponds and the Menard's to ensure that primary orientation of the developments were directed away from 58th Street and that performance standards related to landscaping, screening and lighting were complied with to adequately protect the adjacent residential neighborhood. Future development between Oak Park Ponds and Norell Avenue will need • to be planned such that primary orientation of the access and development would be directed to the Highway 36 frontage road (60th Street) and Norell Avenue. Additionally, adequate screening, setbacks, landscaping and controls on traffic noise, light and other external factors would be required as part of any development approval. The primary access to this district is provided by 60th and 58th Streets. The arterial and collector system is in place to support the anticipated development. Local access roadways will be planned for and developed with construction of commercial properties. Access points and driveways in this area will be planned so as to direct most traffic movements away from existing and proposed residential neighborhoods. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 99 I • STATE HIGHWAY 2S a� / / J� 0 P O� C � �P � • y ; A �P � y PROPOSED LAND USE = Low Density Estate Residential = CBD District Boundary 0 Low Density Residential = Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential ' Industrial N Quasi - Public Facilities ] Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 200 0 200 400 Feet - Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space • �= PLANNING DISTRICT 14 N A. C City of Oak Park Heights 100 IL d NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS s PLANNING DISTRICT 14 Planning District 14 consists of the Kern Center, a partially developed business and warehousing park that was annexed from Baytown Township in 1998. The area currently has 12 sites available for potential businesses. The district is zoned B -3, Highway Business and Warehousing District. The district is provided access from 58th Street. The City will construct a roadway extension of Memorial Drive to 55th Street in 1999. As a means of facilitating pedestrian access, the City will extend its trail system from 58th Street, across Highway 5 and into the Kern Center. The City will extend sewer and water to the district in 1999. The City has adequate capacity in both its water and sanitary sewer systems. High level sanitary sewer users may be limited so as not to create any issues with sewer improvements. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 101 i -- aMft HIGHW KERN CENTER'� � % 5 _ 55T i STREET 15 cn PROPOSED LAND USE F Low Density Estate Residential ® CBD District Boundary Low Density Residential W Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas rte, Medium Density Residential ® Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential - Industrial N �j Quasi - Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 300 0 300 600 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space • PLANNING DISTRICT 15 NF City of Oak Park Heights 102 I NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 15 Planning District 15 is that area currently part of the City of Lake Elmo that is between Manning Avenue and Highway 5, north of 50th Street North. Property owners in that area had petitioned for annexation to the City of Oak Park Heights in 1997 but the Municipal Board separated this area from Kern Center. The City of Oak Park Heights is planning for this area in that it is anticipated that property owners that control most of the area in this district will request a detachment from Lake Elmo and attachment to Oak Park Heights. The area consists of single family homes, a church and agricultural area. The City Council has indicated that it will not initiate an annexation of this area and will not oppose any action brought forward by the affected property owners. The Proposed Land Use Plan map indicates that areas along Highway 36 and south along Highway 5 would be planned for an extension of the business warehousing uses similar to the Kern Center. Areas planned for high /medium density residential are programmed to provide separation of the business uses from the planned low density residential. The existing low density estate residential uses would remain as is with no increase in density. The areas planned for business would be zoned B -3, Highway Business and Warehouse, the medium density would be zoned R -2, Low and Medium Density Residential, and the low density a combination of R -1 A to R -1 C, Single Family Residential Districts. The R -1 Districts would be used to transition lot sizes and resulting densities to the very low density developments within Lake Elmo. Access to the district is from Manning Avenue, 55th Street North and 50th Street North. A system of local roadways would be planned for and constructed as development occurs. With minor upgrades to the existing sanitary sewer system, the district could be served with City utilities. The trail system would be planned to extend to Manning Avenue for eventual connection to the Gateway Trail. A park is not planned for this area, although the addition of a small neighborhood facility may be considered as part of the park planning process in 1999. Access for pedestrians from Kern Center via Memorial Drive would provide a tie to the existing City park and trail system. OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 103 i • 55TH STREET w a i� z II t � • f , PROPOSED LAND USE 0 Low Density Estate Residential CBD District Boundary = Low Density Residential Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas L� Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional — ® High Density Residential ' Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 100 0 100 200 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space 0-- - r PLANNING DISTRICT 16 N City of Oak Park Heights 104 IL d NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS PLANNING DISTRICT 16 Planning District 16 includes that undeveloped area south of the City boundary and west of Oakgreen Avenue, currently in Baytown Township. The area is planned for low density residential use. The City places a priority on annexation of this property in that it is surrounded on three sides by Oak Park Heights and the area would provide a logical extension of the Valley Senior Services Alliance project and existing single family neighborhoods. A combination of the R -1 A, R -1 B and R -1 C Zoning Districts would be utilized to provide a transition of lot sizes from the River Hills and Valley Senior Services Alliance neighborhoods to the very low density parcels in Baytown Township. The area is currently accessed only by Oakgreen Avenue. The Proposed Transportation Plan Map indicates local street connections between the Valley Senior Services Alliance project, through the district, with a connection to Oakgreen Avenue. The City currently has the capacity to serve the area with sewer and water. • • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 105 I i .►I11111 ♦ �� �'� 111U11� •uD�p 111 /� N KKE � \I ► ►.�.I► '■ � �� 111 �t ► ate 111ui1. �...� /� �� i11 ■i i1i �� .I�i111�. � \.I�� �IIUA .► ��� UI ■11� .� � ♦� I IUlium C � , ■ .GiGt.liiili. ► Ii ./111�t� ■■ t ►� t� I111111111� 1111111111�IIf! �� ii ■�ttt/�tt��t�ttt� - ��.11�1111 \�� 1 .11111■ �� ■ .11111 ■. �� ■ P , ' •. �� ® • P ROPOSED LAND USE De nsity " LOW Density Estate Residential = CBD [:3District Boundary M edium Density Business/Residential Transitional High De nsity Residential Industrial N Quasi-Public Facilities Highway BusinessNVarehouse Sch ool Facilities Park Facilities/Open Space .11 1 611 1200 Fee G overnme nt .�Open Spa PLANNING DISTRICT 17 N A. C City of Oa Park Heights 1 06 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 17 Planning District 17 includes the Department of Natural Resources property and areas to the south of the existing City boundaries to the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. Annexation of the DNR property and undeveloped properties to the south is seen as a priority for the City in that this area allows for additional recreational space, open area, and potentially a golf course with large lot single family development. The area adjacent to Northbrook Boulevard is seen as less of a priority but necessary to provide street connections to this roadway. A large portion of this area would remain as park facilities and as open space in that it is controlled by the Department of Natural Resources. The City has an interest in extending the park facilities of Brekke Park and to maintain portions of the Department of Natural Resources property as natural space with possible trails and passive recreational uses. Within the Department of Natural Resources property, and undeveloped property to the south, the City has planned an area for a golf course and estate residential uses. Adequate undeveloped area exists to allow for an 18 hole regulation golf course surrounded by large lot single family homes or townhomes. This land use would coordinate well with the existing single family development in the area which has been • designated as low density estate residential on the Proposed Land Use Plan map. This district is served by Northbrook Boulevard and Osgood Avenue. Sanitary sewer and water would be extended to the newly developing areas within the district but the City would consider allowing the existing septic systems to remain, provided they are environmentally sound. The City would not allow new development to be served by septic systems unless municipal service could not be reasonably extended. Within the Water Supply and Distribution Plan, the City has identified potential sites for a well and ground stage facilities in this district to serve the City's growth areas well into the 20th Century. Zoning with this district would utilize the R -1, R -1 A, R-113 and R -1 C Single Family Residential Districts for the low density residential areas and the 0, Open Space Conservation District for the park land and open areas. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 107 I Q) l-! L \1 ITT � o N C D m l i f C, �? PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential CBD ® District Boundary 0 Low Density Residential Commercial — Wetland /Ponding Areas 0 Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional – ® High Density Residential i Industrial N 0 Quasi - Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 500 0 500 1000 Feet Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks = �� and Open Space F • PLANNING DISTRICT 18 N A � (O` City of Oak Park Heights 108 i NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS • PLANNING DISTRICT 18 Planning District 18 consists of the area east of Osgood Avenue, south of the State of Minnesota Corrections Facility, and west of Stagecoach Trail. Annexation of this area is seen as important primarily for the addition of needed industrial and highway business/ warehouse land within the St. Croix Valley. The City of Bayport has also included this area in their Comprehensive Plan and area property owners have petitioned for annexation to Bayport. The two Cities should continue to work cooperatively on annexation and jurisdiction issues in this district. The area to the east of Osgood and north of 47th Street consists of a multi use area including business warehousing, existing single family, park land and commercial. The park facility is an existing grove of trees that would be used as a buffer between the commercial and residential uses. The business warehouse uses in this area would be planned as a business park with adequate separations and buffers to the existing and proposed residential areas. A large area of industrial use is planned south of 47th Street. This area is seen as an ideal site for industrial and warehousing because of the rail and roadway access as well • as the planned industrial uses to the east in Bayport. Existing single family and proposed mid density uses are programmed as transitional uses to the low density uses further west. The area is accessed by Osgood Avenue, Stagecoach Trail, and 47th Street. As in Planning District 17, sanitary sewer and water extensions would depend upon the availability and cost to serve this area. Allowing development on septic systems and wells would need to be determined by the City when the area is being planned for subdivision. Low density uses would be zoned R -1, R -1 A, R -1 B and R -1 C Single Family Residential Districts, and mid density uses as R -2, Low and Medium Density Residential. The commercial would be zoned B -2, Business Warehousing and industrial would be zoned B -W, Business Warehousing or B -3, Highway Business and Warehousing and I, Industrial, respectively. • OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 109 I n a:, 0 � J o 19 W es, . \�/ P r ^ o C G PROPOSED LAND USE Low Density Estate Residential ® CBD District Boundary Low Density Residential = Commercial Wetland /Ponding Areas Medium Density Residential Business /Residential Transitional High Density Residential - Industrial N Quasi- Public Facilities Highway Business/Warehouse School Facilities Park Facilities /Open Space 400 0 400 800 Feet ® Government Facilities Estate Residential /Golf Course /Parks and Open Space f PLANNING DISTRICT 19 NA City of Oak Park Heights 110 L r NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS 0 PLANNING DISTRICT 19 Planning District 19 consists of the area south of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad between Northbrook Boulevard and Osgood Avenue. The entire area is designated as low density estate residential. There are existing large lot single family developments in the area. The City would continue this type of land use with the possibility for utilities but portions of the area would likely continue or develop on septic systems and wells. The large lot developments would transition well to the rural areas to the south. The area would likely receive a zoning classification of R -1 C with minimum lot sizes over 20,000 square feet. The City has designated this area for potential annexation after 2015. It is a low priority area in terms of future growth areas for the City of Oak Park Heights. The area is accessed by Northbrook Boulevard and Osgood Avenue. As in Planning Districts 17 and 18, sanitary sewer and water extensions would depend on the availability and cost to serve this area. Allowing development on septic systems and wells would need to be determined by the City when the area is planned for development. 0 i OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 111 NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING DISTRICTS i OAK PARK HEIGHTS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK 112 L