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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSTAFF REPORT Variance 2365 Big Thompson Ave Retaining Wall 2024-06-04 Community Development Memo To: Chair Jeff Moreau Estes Park Board of Adjustment Through: Steve Careccia, Community Development Director From: Paul Hornbeck, Senior Planner Date: June 4, 2024 Application: Variances from Estes Park Development Code Section 7.2 regarding retaining wall height and alteration of natural grade. 2365 Big Thompson Avenue Todd & Rebecca Wright, Owners Chris & Kendall Combs, 2 Combs Enterprises, Inc., Applicants Jody Newton, Masterworks, LLC, Applicant’s Representative Recommendation: Staff recommends the Board of Adjustment approve the variance requests, subject to the findings described in the report. Land Use: 2022 Estes Forward Comprehensive Plan Designation: (Future Land Use): Mixed-Use Centers and Corridors Zoning District: Existing - Accommodations/Highway Corridor (EV A) (Larimer County); Proposed – Accommodations (Estes Park) Site Area: 3.2 Acres ☒ PUBLIC HEARING ☐ ORDINANCE ☐ LAND USE ☐ CONTRACT/AGREEMENT ☐ RESOLUTION ☒ OTHER QUASI-JUDICIAL ☒ YES ☐ NO Objective: Hold a public hearing to consider two variance requests from the Estes Park Development Code (EPDC) related to proposed construction of a new hotel at 2365 Big Thompson Avenue. Background: The existing accommodations use on the subject parcel, Olympus Lodge, is proposed to be demolished and replaced with a new hotel on the site. The property is located in 11 2 unincorporated Larimer County and the applicant has submitted a petition to annex the property into the Town of Estes Park, a Development Plan for the proposed hotel, and the subject variance requests. Both the Annexation and Development Plan remain under review, and no formal action is scheduled at this time. Location and Context: The 3.2-acre property is located at 2365 Big Thompson Avenue, adjacent to the intersection with Mall Road (see Vicinity Map). The site is located on a hillside with average slopes of 14%. The subject property is zoned Accommodations/Highway Corridor (EV A) in Larimer County. The zoning requested with the pending annexation application is Accommodations. Adjacent properties are a mix of different zoning and land uses as outlined in the Zoning and Land Use Summary Table below. Vicinity Map 22 3 Zoning and Land Use Summary Table Comprehensive Plan (2022) Zone Uses Subject Site Mixed-Use Centers and Corridors Accommodations/Highway Corridor (EV A) (Larimer County) Accommodations North Mixed-Use Centers and Corridors Accommodations/Highway Corridor (EV A) (Larimer County) Residential Neighborhood Village Residential (EV R) (Larimer County) Residential South Mixed-Use Centers and Corridors Outlying Commercial (EV CO) (Larimer County) Residential & Entertainment East Mountains and Foothills Rural Estate (EV RE) (Larimer County) Undeveloped West Mixed-Use Centers and Corridors Outlying Commercial (EV CO) (Larimer County) CDOT Facility Neighborhood Village Residential (EV R) (Larimer County) Residential/ Undeveloped Future Land Use Map Neighborhood Village Mixed-Use Centers and Corridors Mountains and Foothills 33 4 Variance Description The applicant seeks to construct a 115-room hotel that will require significant grading given the topography of the site. The proposed grading will require retaining wall heights and changes in the natural grade that are both in excess of the maximums allowed by EPDC. Given the applicant’s intent for the property to be annexed into the Town of Estes Park, they are requesting prospective variances for the proposed hotel development. The applicant has requested a variance from EPDC § 7.2.B.6 to allow retaining wall heights up to 23 feet in lieu of the maximum of 6 feet. Rather than allowing retaining walls in excess of 6 feet in height, the EPDC requires a system of terraced walls, each limited to a maximum of 6 feet in height with a landscaped terrace with a minimum horizontal width of 5 feet between walls. The applicant investigated using such a terraced system (Attachment # 3) that would comply with the EPDC requirements but found it not feasible given the slope and size of the property. Also requested is a variance from EPDC § 7.2.B.2 to allow the original, natural grade to be lowered by up to 25 feet rather than the maximum of 10 feet. To create a flat building site the grade is proposed to be lowered significantly in the northwest portion of the site. Proposed Site Plan Refer to Attachment # 3 for full size 44 5 Proposed Grading Plan Refer to Attachment # 3 for full size 55 6 Tiered Retaining Wall Investigation Refer to Attachment # 4 for full size Project Analysis Review Criteria: The Board of Adjustment (BOA) is the decision-making body for variance requests. In accordance with EPDC Section 3.6.C, Variances, Standards for Review, applications for variances shall demonstrate compliance with the applicable standards and criteria contained therein. The Standards with staff findings for each are as follows: 66 7 1. Special circumstances or conditions exist (e.g., exceptional topographic conditions, narrowness, shallowness or the shape of the property) that are not common to other areas or buildings similarly situated. Practical difficulty may result from strict compliance with this Code's standards, provided that the requested variance will not have the effect of nullifying or impairing the intent and purposes of either the specific standards, this Code or the Comprehensive Plan. Staff Finding: There are special circumstances or conditions unique to this lot, particularly the steep topography (average grade of 14%). In determining "practical difficulty," the BOA shall consider the following factors: a. Whether there can be any beneficial use of the property without the variance; Staff Finding: There is beneficial use of the property without the variance as the existing use could continue or redevelopment could utilize multiple smaller buildings which require less grading and retaining walls. The statement of intent indicates smaller cottage type development is not financially feasible. b. Whether the variance is substantial; Staff Finding: From a numerical perspective the variances are substantial (23’ retaining wall rather than the 6’ maximum and change in natural grade of 25’ rather than the maximum of 10’). From a visual perspective, the variances are less substantial given the location of the retaining walls and largest grade change being largely screened from Big Thompson Avenue by the hotel building and being downhill of the homes to the north. c. Whether the essential character of the neighborhood would be substantially altered or whether adjoining properties would suffer a substantial detriment as a result of the variance; Staff Finding: The character of the neighborhood will change with the proposed development as a single, large structure three stories in height is proposed compared to numerous smaller buildings currently on the site. However, the variances proposed will not necessarily substantially alter the essential character of the neighborhood. The majority of cut into the existing grade will occur on the northwest corner of the property, which will be screened from view by the hotel building as seen from Big Thompson Avenue. A retaining wall up to 10 feet in height is proposed in front of the hotel building and will be visible. However, it is in the same vicinity as an existing short retaining wall on the site that has a steep manmade slope above it that together create approximately 10 feet in grade change (Image # 1). There may be some visual impact to the character of the neighborhood. To mitigate this, staff recommends that all retaining walls visible from adjoining properties or from private or public roadways, be faced with wood, 77 8 stone or other earth-colored materials that blend with the surrounding natural landscape. Image #1 Existing Retaining Wall and Manmade Slope Adjoining properties will not suffer a substantial detriment as a result of the variance. The two residential properties located to the north are likely to be most impacted by the variances (Image # 2). However, the visual impact of the retaining wall from those properties is not likely to be any more detrimental than terraced retaining walls built in accordance with EPDC requirements. One consideration is the potential safety hazard of someone falling from the top of the retaining wall. Staff recommends a condition of approval to require an architecturally enhanced fence or railing be constructed at the top of the wall to mitigate this concern. The variance to the existing natural grade means the building will be situated lower than without the variance, making for less visual impact. This will better preserve views for the properties to the north, but it will make the roof more visible than it otherwise would be from the adjacent properties. As such, staff recommends a condition of approval to require that all rooftop equipment be fully screened. 88 9 Image #2 View of Existing Lodge Buildings from the north d. Whether the variance would adversely affect the delivery of public services such as water and sewer. Staff Finding: The variances will not impact delivery of public services. e. Whether the Applicant purchased the property with knowledge of the requirement; Staff Finding: The applicant is in the process of purchasing the property. f. Whether the Applicant's predicament can be mitigated through some method other than a variance. Staff Finding: To construct a hotel of the desired size, there does not appear to be any other method for mitigation. 2. No variance shall be granted if the submitted conditions or circumstances affecting the Applicant's property are of so general or recurrent a nature as to make reasonably practicable the formulation of a general regulation for such conditions or situations. 99 10 Staff Finding: While topography is an issue for many areas of Town, the average slope on this lot makes it unique. 3. No variance shall be granted reducing the size of lots contained in an existing or proposed subdivision if it will result in an increase in the number of lots beyond the number otherwise permitted for the total subdivision, pursuant to the applicable zone district regulations. Staff Finding: Not applicable. 4. If authorized, a variance shall represent the least deviation from the regulations that will afford relief. Staff Finding: The requested variances appear to represent the least deviation from the regulations that will afford relief. 5. Under no circumstances shall the BOA grant a variance to allow a use not permitted or a use expressly or by implication prohibited under the terms of this Code for the zoning district containing the property for which the variance is sought. Staff Finding: Not applicable. 6. In granting such variances, the BOA may require such conditions as will, in its independent judgment, secure substantially the objectives of the standard so varied or modified. Staff Finding: Staff’s recommended conditions are listed below. Review Agency Comments The application was referred to all applicable review agencies for comment. Public Works is not opposed to the variance requests. However, they do recommend architectural enhancements to the retaining walls given the additional wall expanses that will be visible to the public. Public Notice Staff provided public notice of the application in accordance with EPDC noticing requirements. As of the time of writing this report, Staff has received no inquiries regarding the variance request. ● Written notice mailed to adjacent property owners on May 17, 2024. ● Legal notice published in the Estes Park Trail-Gazette on May 17, 2024. ● Application posted on the Town's "Current Applications" website. Advantages 1010 11 These variances would further the applicant’s intent to move forward with plans to construct a 115-room hotel on the property, subject to action on the Annexation and Development Plan. There is a need for accommodations units in Town and the Town will benefit from increased tax revenue. Disadvantages Disadvantages of the variances are the potential safety hazard of large retaining walls as well as the visual impact. Action Recommended Staff recommends approval of the proposed variances described in this staff report subject to the following conditions: 1. An architecturally enhanced fence or railing shall be provided on top of all retaining walls where determined necessary for public safety, subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission; 2. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be fully screened from the view of surrounding properties and private or public roadways. Screening methods shall be consistent with the style, materials, and colors of the primary building. Such screening details shall be depicted on the Development Plan and subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission; and 3. All retaining walls visible from adjoining properties or from private or public roadways shall be faced with wood, stone, or other earth-colored materials that blend with the surrounding natural landscape and provide an architecturally enhanced design. Such materials and design shall be depicted on the Development Plan and subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission. Finance/Resource Impact N/A Level of Public Interest Little to no interest received by staff. Sample Motions I move to approve the variance requests to allow the original, natural grade to be lowered by up to 25 feet rather than the maximum of 10 feet and to allow retaining wall heights up to 23 feet rather than the maximum of 6 feet, with findings as outlined in the staff report and subject to the following conditions: 1111 12 1. An architecturally enhanced fence or railing shall be provided on top of all retaining walls where determined necessary for public safety, subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission; 2. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be fully screened from the view of surrounding properties and private or public roadways. Screening methods shall be consistent with the style, materials, and colors of the primary building. Such screening details shall be depicted on the Development Plan and subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission; and 3. All retaining walls visible from adjoining properties or from private or public roadways shall be faced with wood, stone, or other earth-colored materials that blend with the surrounding natural landscape and provide an architecturally enhanced design. Such materials and design shall be depicted on the Development Plan and subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission. I move to deny the requested variance with the following findings [state reason/findings]. I move that the Board of Adjustment continue the variance to the next regularly scheduled meeting, finding that [state reasons for continuance]. Attachments 1. Application 2. Statement of Intent 3. Development Plan 4. Tiered Wall Investigation 1212 Street Address of Lot: Lot: Lot Size Proposed Land Use Town Well Town Well Existing Sanitary Sewer Service UTSD Septic Proposed Sanitary Sewer Service UTSD Septic Existing Gas Service None Are there wetlands on the site?Yes No Variance Desired: Name of Primary Contact Person Owner Applicant Consultant/Engineer Digital copies of plats/plans in PDF format emailed to planning@estes.org Site Access (if not on public street) Legal Description: Existing Land Use Community Development Department Phone: (970) 577-3721  planning@estes.org  www.estes.org/CommunityDevelopment Site Information Attachments Statement of Intent (must comply with standards set forth in Section 3.6.C of the EPDC) Purchase of Develoment Plan sign ($10) Proposed Water Service Parcel ID # : Subdivision: Zoning Other (Specify) Other (Specify) EPSD EPSD Xcel ESTES PARK APPLICATION Submittal Date: BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Block:Tract: Record Owner(s): General Information Existing Water Service Primary Contact Information Variance Town of Estes Park  P.O. Box 1200  170 MacGregor Avenue  Estes Park, CO 80517 Application fee: Pre-Construction $1095, Post-Construction $1115 1 copy of the site plan (see EPDC Appendix B.VII.5) Revised 2024-02-06 ks UTSD 1313 Cell Phone Record Owner(s) Mailing Address Phone Contact Information Phone Cell Phone Consultant/Engineer Phone Cell Phone Email Email Mailing Address Email Applicant Revised 2024-02-06 ks 1414 ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► PLEASE PRINT: PLEASE PRINT: Date Date I understand that I am required to obtain a "Development Proposal" sign from the Community Development Department ($10) and that this sign must be posted on my property where it is clearly visible from the road. I understand that the corners of my property and the proposed building/structure corners must be field staked. I understand that the sign must be posted and the staking completed no later than ten (10) business days prior to the Estes Park Board of Adjustment hearing. I understand that if the Board of Adjustment approves my request, "Failure of an applicant to apply for a building permit and commence construction or action with regard to the variance approval within one (1) year of receiving approval of the variance may automatically render the decision of the BOA null and void." (Estes Park Development Code Section 3.6.D) I understand that a resubmittal fee may be charged if my application is incomplete. The Community Development Department will notify the applicant in writing of the date on which the application is determined to be complete. I grant permission for Town of Estes Park Employees and Members of the Board of Adjustment with proper identification access to my property during the review of this application. I acknowledge that I have received the Estes Park Board of Adjustment Variance Application Schedule and that failure to meet the deadlines shown on said schedule shall result in my application or the approval of my application becoming null and void. I understand that full fees will be charged for the resubmittal of an application that has become null and void. I understand that this variance request may be delayed in processing by a month or more if the information provided is incomplete, inaccurate, or submitted after the deadline date. Names: Record Owner Applicant Signatures: Record Owner Applicant I understand that acceptance of this application by the Town of Estes Park for filing and receipt of the application fee by the Town does not necessarily mean that the application is complete under the applicable requirements of the EPDC. In submitting the application materials and signing this application agreement, I acknowledge and agree that the application is subject to the applicable processing and public hearing requirements set forth in the Estes Park Development Code (EPDC). I acknowledge that I have obtained or have access to the EPDC, and that, prior to filing this application, I have had the opportunity to consult the relevant provisions governing the processing of and decision on the application. As Applicant, I hereby certify that the information and exhibits herewith submitted are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and that in filing the application I am acting with the knowledge and consent of the owners of the property. As Owner, I certify the information and exhibits herewith submitted are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and I am the record owner of the property. OWNER & APPLICANT CERTIFICATION Revised 2024-02-06 ks 1515 1 | P a g e STATEMENT OF INTENT FOR SPRING HILL SUITES HOTEL VARIANCE REQUEST Located at 2365 Big Thompson Avenue Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado Applicant: Masterworks, LLC 220 South Wilcox # 249 Castle Rock, CO 80108 Developer: Chris & Kendall Combs 2 Combs Enterprises, Inc. 6562 E. County Line Road Rogersville, Missouri 65742 May 24, 2024 1616 2 | P a g e VARIANCE REQUEST APPLICATION FOR THE SPRING HILL SUITES HOTEL A PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT OF THE OLYMPUS LODGE GENERAL INTRODUCTION On behalf of 2 Combs Enterprises, Inc., Masterworks, LLC submits a Variance Request for the SpringHill Suites Hotel (SHS Hotel), to be processed and entitled concurrently with an Annexation, Rezoning, and Development Plan Application requests. The Developer proposes to redevelop the existing Olympus Lodge, which is located at 2365 Big Thompson Avenue in Estes Park, Colorado, and redevelop the parcel as a new Marriott corporate brand hotel. The subject development site consists of approximately 3.17 acres and had previously been legally described as the Mizer Minor Residential Subdivision, Tract A (Assessor’s Parcel Number 25- 2911-0701) and Tract C (Assessor’s Parcel Number 25-2911-0703). Tracts A and C have been re- plated as a single parcel under the Larimer County Amended Plat approval process. The Amended Plat was finalized in June of 2023 and has since been recorded with Larimer County Clerk and Recorder, Reception Number 202336614, and associated Deed, Reception Number 20230037383. The Mizer Subdivision is currently located within Larimer County jurisdiction and is zoned Larimer County ‘Accommodation’. The Developer’s intent is to pursue annexation within the Town of Estes Park jurisdiction and rezone the development parcel to Estes Park Valley Accommodations. The subject development parcel is situated adjacent to the Town of Estes Park municipal boundary on the western boundary and satisfies the State of Colorado’s Annexation 1/6th contiguity requirement. The request for annexation is premised on the desire to seek municipal water service. The hotel is anticipated to employ approximately 45 individuals with an average annual salary of $35,000 to $45,000. The gross annual sales projections for Year One are estimated to be $3,661,840 and should rise to $4,287,589 by the end of year five. Sales tax generated by the new hotel development shall positively offset the request for municipal utility services. In addition, annexation will allow for the extension and connection to the local fire district and sanitary sewer mainline connections, which shall benefit the Estes Park surrounding community. The SpringHill Suites Hotel site plan facilitates the building massing to be centrally located on a terraced elevation to preserve the views of the adjacent residential parcels. The hotel shall consist of a 3-story free standing structure consisting of 115 guest rooms and 5 employee dormitory rooms for employees. The proposed building footprint shall encompass 30,910 square feet on the main floor with a total building area (all floors) of 81,240 square feet. The Town of Estes Park’s maximum building height of 30’ is satisfied based on the average grade at finish floor elevation at foundation minus the height of the rooftop parapets intended to screen mechanical units. 1717 3 | P a g e Vehicular access to the facility is envisioned to be accommodated by a newly created shared access drive that straddles the easternmost property lines and is aligned with Big Thompson Avenue and Mall Road. A Traffic Report is included as part of this application, which addresses the capacity, geometry, and control requirements associated with the proposed SpringHill Suites Hotel. The study encompasses the Big Thompson Avenue intersection with Mall Road and Belleview Drive. A CDOT access permits is anticipated with the development of this site and will be coordinated by the Developer with CDOT staff. Surface parking is designed to be contained internally within the site and provides for a total of 122 surface patron parking spaces, which consist of 1 space per rentable room (115 spaces), 1 space per 3 employees (4 spaces), plus 3 additional spaces. Therefore, the Town of Estes Park Parking Standards have been satisfied and are exceeded by 3 spaces. The proposed development concept incorporates superior quality architecture, landscaping and site design standards that complement the adjacent and surrounding land uses that comprise the Town’s municipal boundary. The proposed hotel site plan and architectural exterior design elements are specifically designed to satisfy the Town of Estes Park Development Plan standards including height limitations, building massing, preferred exterior materials combinations, lighting restrictions, handicap accessibility, landscape standards, open space coverage, and wildfire hazard requirements. Utility, Grading and Civil Construction Design Plans provide data to justify that the proposed hotel development complies with master grading and drainage design criteria set forth by the Town of Estes Park development standards. A Preliminary Drainage Report is provided for the Town of Estes Park’s review and approval. In addition, a Phase I Drainage Report and Geotechnical Soils Report will be included as part of the Development Plan application. Full Civil Construction Plans are included with this application. In accordance with the Town of Estes Park’s development utility service requirements, water and sanitary services will be provided by Estes Park Municipal Water and Upper Thompson Sanitation District. A will-serve letter is included from the Upper Thompson Sanitation District in support of the proposed development and services. The subject parcel contains no environmentally hazardous, sensitive, or natural resource areas. Any hazardous by-products generated at the SpringHill Suites Hotel facility shall be required to be contained, stored, and disposed of on a systematic basis by a licensed hazardous and or medical waste disposal and recycling collection business. An Environment Assessment Report is included as part of this application. Fire protection shall be provided by the Estes Valley Protection District. It has been exhibited that the goal of the design team is to provide adequate fire protection for the hotel and its patrons that is in conformance to the requirements of the Town of Estes Park, Estes Valley Protection District (EVFD), and the International Fire Code (IFC). The proposed new development includes 2 new fire hydrants, which will be connected to a looped system, eliminating the existing dead end service lines. Two vehicular access points and an internal accessible route have been designed in accordance with the EVFD requirements. The hotel shall include an internal sprinkler system that meets IFC specifications. 1818 4 | P a g e The proposed SpringHill Suites Hotel development shall have minimal impacts upon the Town of Estes Park’s community services. This proposal provides for adequate roadway and emergency services, and satisfactorily meets the design criteria set forth in the Accommodation zone classification. ESTES PARK LAND USE DEVELOPMENT CODE SECTION 3.6 – VARIANCES In accordance with Section 3.6, the applicant requests the BOA grant special consideration for the proposed development on the premise that the Code inflicts unnecessary hardship and practical difficulties upon the Developer under the following criteria: • Grading and Site Disturbance Standards – The Estes Park Development Code Section 7.2, specifies 10 feet as the Maximum Change in Natural Grade and a maximum of 6 feet Retaining Wall Height. The Development Plan exhibits the Developer’s “across the board” efforts to satisfy Chapter 7 General Development Standards, particularly relating to slope protection, public trails and open space, landscape buffers, exterior lighting, operational performance standards, off-street parking, and building design criteria including a maximum building height of 30’. Due to the subject parcel’s inherent existing grades and adjacent developed land uses, a variance for natural grade maximum changes up to 25’ (from 10’) and retaining wall height maximum height of 23’ (from 6’) is therefore requested. STANDARDS FOR REVIEW In accordance with Section 3.6, the applicant requests the BOA grant special variance consideration for the proposed development as demonstrated with the standards and criteria presented for Review Standards, 1 through 7 as stated below: 1. Special circumstances or conditions exist (e.g., exceptional topographic conditions, narrowness, shallowness or the shape of the property) that are not common to other areas or buildings similarly situated and practical difficulty may result from strict compliance with this Code's standards, provided that the requested variance will not have the effect of nullifying or impairing the intent and purposes of either the specific standards, this Code or the Comprehensive Plan. RESPONSE: In accordance with the Town of Estes Park’s request to Annex, Zone and Develop within the municipal boundaries, the Developer has agreed to proceed as requested. Based on the physical location of the parcel, the Town’s development requirements and challenging topographic conditions, the developer has made a concerted effort to satisfy Town Code standards as best possible. However, the strict compliance with the Code standards in totality makes it practically impossible to satisfy grade and retaining wall heights specifications. Special circumstances due to on-site existing grades are not intensified by the request for additional density. 1919 5 | P a g e 2. In determining "practical difficulty," the BOA shall consider the following factors: a) Whether there can be any beneficial use of the property without the variance, RESPONSE: The property currently contains an existing lodging facility, which assumes Accommodations to be the greatest and highest land use. The cost of development based on the site challenges makes a small-cottage lodges cost prohibitive. b) Whether the variance is substantial; RESPONSE: The variance request is comparable to existing hotel developments within the Estes Park Valley community. c) Whether the essential character of the neighborhood would be substantially altered or whether adjoining properties would suffer a substantial detriment as a result of the variance; RESPONSE: The subject parcel currently contains an accommodations facility and no changes to the surround character of the neighborhood would be substantially altered. Adjoining properties would not suffer a substantial detriment as a result of the variance requests. d) Whether the variance would adversely affect the delivery of public services such as water and sewer; RESPONSE: The variance requests will improve the delivery of public services, thus allowing for water, sewer, and fire protection services accessible easement and vehicular routes that are accessible for servicing the surrounding land uses. e) Whether the Applicant purchased the property with knowledge of the requirement; RESPONSE: The applicant’s initial development intention was to pursue a Development Application through Larimer County, in which the proposed site plan adhered to density and grading code restrictions. The developer did not anticipate annexation to the Town and thus the Estes Park Code requirements. The applicant has made significant adjustments to the development plans across the board to satisfy Town Code requirements as best as possible, but it has become a hardship to satisfy grading and density standards without minimal variance requests. f) Whether the Applicant's predicament can be mitigated through some method other than a variance. RESPONSE: The applicant has exhausted design options where a variance would no longer be needed to satisfy maximum building height requirements. Special circumstances and conditions exist that are not common to other areas or buildings similarly situated and practical difficulty may result from strict compliance with this Code's standards. The requested variance will not have the effect of nullifying or impairing the intent and purposes of either the specific standards, this Code or the Comprehensive Plan. 2020 6 | P a g e 3. No variance shall be granted if the submitted conditions or circumstances affecting the Applicant's property are of so general or recurrent a nature as to make reasonably practicable the formulation of a general regulation for such conditions or situations. RESPONSE: The Town of Estes Park Code Standards were established and based on development circumstances pertaining to the Town’s center core, which does not have the topographic challenges as experienced with expansion of the Town’s Municipal District boundaries. The requested variances are not unique to the SpringHill Suites Hotel development and will not set a precedence if the requests are granted by the Board of Adjustments. 4. No variance shall be granted reducing the size of lots contained in an existing or proposed subdivision if it will result in an increase in the number of lots beyond the number otherwise permitted for the total subdivision, pursuant to the applicable zone district regulations. RESPONSE: The proposed variance requests will result in an increase in the number of lots beyond the number otherwise permitted for the total subdivision, pursuant to the applicable zone district regulations. 5. If authorized, a variance shall represent the least deviation from the regulations that will afford relief. RESPONSE: The requested variances represent the least deviation from the regulations that will afford relief. 6. Under no circumstances shall the BOA grant a variance to allow a use not permitted, or a use expressly or by implication prohibited under the terms of this Code for the zone district containing the property for which the variance is sought. RESPONSE: The SpringHill Suites Hotel is a permitted land use within the Accommodations Zone District. 7. In granting such variances, the BOA may require such conditions as will, in its independent judgment, secure substantially the objectives of the standard so varied or modified. RESPONSE: It is the Developers intent to secure substantially the objectives of the standard so varied or modified. 2121 7 | P a g e CONCLUSION 2 Combs Enterprises. Inc is committed to a development that upholds high quality and innovative site designs compatible with the surrounding business community. The proposed hotel facility is a permitted Accommodations Land Use within Larimer County as well as the Town of Estes Park Accommodation zoning classification. The Site Plan is consistent with the Town of Estes Park’s Development Standards. No development requirements and or code modifications have been proposed. This proposal supports contiguous and orderly growth, and presents no burdens on roadway infrastructure, town services or the environment. 2 Combs Enterprises, Inc. hereby requests that the Town of Estes Park approve the Variance Request, as well as the accompanying Annexation/Zoning, and Development Plan. The lodging land use is consistent with the Town of Estes Park Master Plan support and supports logical land use development. Thank you to the Board of Adjustments for your consideration! 2222 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X TRACT "B" MIZER MRD PARCEL NO.: 2529110702 OWNER(S): BRETT, QUINN/GLEN/JANICE LOT 33 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS PARCEL NO.: 2529105033 OWNER(S): PERRY, DIANE V PA R C E L N O . : 25 2 9 1 1 0 7 0 2 OW N E R ( S ) : A P C CR O C K E R R A N C H L L C LOT 37 AMND PLAT LOTS 35-41 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS SUB PARCEL NO.: 2529107902 OWNER(S): DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE OF COLORADO LOT 30A AMND PLAT OF LOTS 30, 31, & 32 & S1 2 OF LOT 26 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS AND A PORTION OF THE SW CORNER OF VISTA PARK PARCEL NO.: 2529113030 OWNER(S): CASS, LYMAN/HELEN LIVING TRUST PARCEL 2, EXHIBIT A, RECEPTION NO 20030130209 SEE SURVEYOR'S NOTE 12 %I*7+ 2 M P 6 2 N  A 9 E MA L L  R ' PR2P26E'%8IL'IN* N89°28'59"E 101.74' S34°55'18"E 105.43' S 2 2 ° 1 1 ' 1 8 " E 4 9 . 9 2 ' N71°17 ' 4 4 " E 266.05 ' N00°12'56"E 415.76' S89°30'31"W 60.09' S0 0 ° 1 3 ' 1 0 " W 11 6 . 3 2 ' S89°32'00"W 170.50' N01°13'15"W 16.05' S89°29'22"W 186.57' S00°33'46"E 66.12' S89°43'29"W 15.02' S00°38'44"E 144.76' +/- 81,240 SF (TOTAL ALL FLOORS) 8 11 11 4 13 9 9 7 15 11 10 11 11 5 . 4 8 ' 43.98' 19.6 5 ' 25' SETBACK 15' SETBACK 15' SETBACK 15' SETBACK 3 2 2 2 33 7 7 7 7 7 8 9 9 9 6 6 4 4 5 5 2 9 8 10 20' 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 7.5' 17 . 5 ' 26 ' 17 . 5 ' 18.14' 2 5 ' 1 7 . 5 ' 2 4 ' 1 7 . 5 ' 7' 1 7 . 5 ' 2 4 ' 9' 9' 9' 9' 9' 9' 9' 9'9' 9'9' 9' 37 . 4 9 ' 7' 15.07' 5 25' SETBACK 25' SETBACK 25' SETBACK 40' SETBACK 15' SETBACK 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 7 2 2 AMENITY AREA STAIRS W/ HANDRAIL EX. FENCE 20' U.E. 20' U.E. AMENITY AREA 22 . 1 9 ' 41 . 7 2 ' 8 7' 37.13' 40 . 5 8 ' 32' 95 . 9 8 ' 65.55' 20' 25' SETBACK 56.5' PROPERTY LINE (TYP) FIRE TRUCK TURN AROUND 4 STAIRS W/ HANDRAIL PROPERTY LINE (TYP) PROPERTY LINE (TYP) PROPERTY LINE (TYP) PROPERTY LINE (TYP) PROPERTY LINE (TYP) BIKE RACKS RE: ARCHITECTURE PLANS LIGHT POLE (TYP) LIGHTED BOLLARD (TYP) 7.5' 34' FL-FL 1 2 5' ATTACHED SIDEWALK 2 2 1 4 12 12 5' ATTACHED SIDEWALK 2 2 2 12 6 34' A.U.E. 34' A.U . E . DOUBLE YELLOW STRIPING R3 1 ' R3 9 . 5 ' R29.5' R5' R3.5' R 2 0 ' R25' R 2 8 ' R20 ' R 2 0 ' R59' R28 ' R4.5' R25' R20 ' R25' R4.5' R2 5 ' R83' R2 0 ' 34' A . U . E . 120' LE F T T U R N L A N E WHITE CHANNELIZING LANE STRIPING 216' LA N E T A P E R 12' 16' R25' R25' R1 5 ' R4.5' R4.5' R17' RIPRAP (TYP) 11 STAIRS W/ HANDRAIL 2 4 3' CROSS PAN S 13 13 13 13 13 (DOUBLE) (DOUBLE) (RIGHT) (RIGHT) (DOUBLE) NO PARKING SIGN (R8-3A) NO PARKING STRIPING 10' REGIONAL TRAIL (CDOT CLASS 6 ROAD BASE 1" = ' (HORIZONTAL) '' 30 60300 3 SI T E P L A N SP1 PL O T D A T E : 0 8 / 3 1 / 2 0 2 3 A T 1 0 : 4 1 A M FI L E P A T H : E : \ _ P R O J E C T S \ 2 2 0 1 7 8 - S P R I N G H I L L S U I T E S - E S T E S P A R K , C O \ 0 3 - D R A W I N G S \ 1 2 - C D S \ 2 2 0 1 7 8 - 1 2 _ S I T E P L A N PROJ NO: DATE : ENG : OF SHEET NUMBER DE S C R I P T I O N DA T E RE V . N O . THIS DESIGN AND THESE DRAWINGS ARE THE PROPERTY OF CAGE ENGINEERING, INC. NO PART OF THIS WORK MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM CAGE ENGINEERING, INC. 17 TH E R I C H A R D S O N D E S I G N P A R T N E R S H I P , L . L . C 23 6 5 B I G T H O M P S O N A V E ES T E S P A R K , C O 220178 IJL / DDK 2023.10.25 SP R I N G H I L L S U I T E S PRELIMINARY THIS DRAWING HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED BY GOVERNING AGENCIES AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE 'E9EL2PMEN7PLAN 6PRIN*+ILL68I7E6 APAR&EL2)LAN'6I78A7E'IN7+E:E672)7+EN2R7+EA672) 6E&7I2N72:N6+IPN2R7+RAN*E:E672)7+E6I;7+ PRIN&IPALMERI'IAN&28N7Y2)LARIMER67A7E2)&2L2RA'2 TO W N O F E S T E S P A R K C O M M E N T S 03 / X X / 2 0 2 4 1 # 6I7EPLANN27E6 1. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE FLOWLINE TO FLOWLINE OR BUILDING FOUNDATION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. 2. ALL DRIVES AND PARKING INTERNAL TO THE SITE ARE PRIVATE. 3. ALL FL RADII ARE 3' UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE. 1-800-922-1987 UTILITY NOTIFICATION CENTER OF COLORADO UNCC CALL BEFORE YOU DIG 811 OR U.E. = UTILITY EASEMENT 6I7EPLAN.EYN27E6 1 2 6" VERTICAL CURB & GUTTER (2' PAN) 5' SIDEWALK 7' ATTACHED SIDEWALK 2' VALLEY GUTTER ADA RAMP RETAINING WALL (DESIGNED BY OTHERS) ACCESSIBLE PARKING SIGN (R7-8) WITH "VAN ACCESSIBLE" PLAQUE (R7-8P) ON SIGN. SIGN POST IS 12 GAUGE GALVANIZED SQUARE TUBE INSIDE A 4" DIAMETER CONCRETE BOLLARD ENCASED IN PAINTED STEEL. ACCESSIBLE PARKING STRIPING 45° (4" YELLOW STRIPING AT 2' O.C.) ACCESSIBLE PARKING SYMBOL PER MUTCD FIGURE 3B.22 DUMPSTER ENCLOSURE AND MAINTENANCE STORAGE AREA (RE:ARCHITECTURE PLANS) 2' TRICKLE CHANNEL 6' CROSSPAN STOP SIGN (R1-1) 3 4 11 5 6 8 9 7 10 12 S LE*EN' PARKING COUNT HEAVY DUTY PAVEMENT (HOT MIX ASPHALT) LIGHT DUTY PAVEMENT (HOT MIX ASPHALT) HEAVY DUTY PAVEMENT (PORTLAND CEMENT CONCRETE) SIDEWALK CONCRETE CATCH CURB AND GUTTER SPILL CURB AND GUTTER LIGHT POLE LIGHTED BOLLARD HANDRAIL A.U.E. = ACCESS & UTILITY EASEMENT 2323 X X X X X X X X X X T T T T T T E E E E E E E E T G G G G X X X X X X X X X X TRACT "B" MIZER MRD PARCEL NO.: 2529110702 OWNER(S): BRETT, QUINN/GLEN/JANICE LOT 33 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS PARCEL NO.: 2529105033 OWNER(S): PERRY, DIANE V PA R C E L N O . : 25 2 9 1 1 0 7 0 2 OW N E R ( S ) : A P C CR O C K E R R A N C H L L C LOT 37 AMND PLAT LOTS 35-41 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS SUB PARCEL NO.: 2529107902 OWNER(S): DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE OF COLORADO LOT 30A AMND PLAT OF LOTS 30, 31, & 32 & S1 2 OF LOT 26 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS AND A PORTION OF THE SW CORNER OF VISTA PARK PARCEL NO.: 2529113030 OWNER(S): CASS, LYMAN/HELEN LIVING TRUST PARCEL 2, EXHIBIT A, RECEPTION NO 20030130209 SEE SURVEYOR'S NOTE 12 7450 7455 7460 7465 7470 7475 7 4 4 5 7470 7 4 7 0 747074757480 7485 74 9 0 3. 5 % 3. 2 % 4 . 4 % 2.2 % 6 . 2 % 4. 1 % 8. 2 % 3. 9 % 3. 7 % 5 . 1 % 8 . 4 % 5 : 1 10.5% 5.1% 6.3%8.8% 4. 5 % 14 . 3 % 9. 9 % 1 . 6 % 7)  7458.90 LP7458.92 LP7458.96 LP7459.05 LP 7458.10 LP 7469.13 LP 7465.96 LP 7454.71 LP 7468.48 LP 7469.79 LP 7458.17 LP 7459.82 HP 7459.78 HP 7459.74 HP 7459.70 HP 7497.26 HP 0.5% 2. 0 % 7. 4 % 1 0 . 0 % 2.2% 2.2% 2.0%2.1%2.0%2.1%2.0%2.1%2.0%2.0% 4. 0 % 7447.14 HP %I*7+ 2 M P 6 2 N  A 9 E MA L L  R ' PR2P26E'%8IL'IN* 7446.08 LP 6.4 % 10 . 3 % 8. 0 % 4. 2 % 1 2 . 4 % 1 5 . 1 % 7 . 2 % 1 . 5 % 4 . 3 % 7435 RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') SWALE SWALE SWALE RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT= 17') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=15') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT: 11') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=4') SWALE WINDOW WELLS UNDERGROUND DETENTION RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=25') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=15') VALLEY GUTTER WINDOW WELLS VALLEY GUTTER RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=19') 7465 74 7 0 7475 74 7 57475 7 4 9 5 7490 7495 7 4 8 5 RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=5') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=5') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=3') 3 : 1 4:1 8. 1 % 7. 6 % 7.1 % SWALE 74 6 0 7480.64 HP 7448.42 HP 1" = ' (HORIZONTAL) '' 30 60300 4 GR A D I N G P L A N GR1 PL O T D A T E : 0 9 / 1 1 / 2 0 2 3 A T 1 : 0 6 P M FI L E P A T H : E : \ _ P R O J E C T S \ 2 2 0 1 7 8 - S P R I N G H I L L S U I T E S - E S T E S P A R K , C O \ 0 3 - D R A W I N G S \ 1 2 - C D S \ 2 2 0 1 7 8 - 1 2 _ G R A D I N G P L A N PRELIMINARY THIS DRAWING HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED BY GOVERNING AGENCIES AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE PROJ NO: DATE : ENG : OF SHEET NUMBER DE S C R I P T I O N DA T E RE V . N O . THIS DESIGN AND THESE DRAWINGS ARE THE PROPERTY OF CAGE ENGINEERING, INC. NO PART OF THIS WORK MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM CAGE ENGINEERING, INC. 17 TH E R I C H A R D S O N D E S I G N P A R T N E R S H I P , L . L . C 23 6 5 B I G T H O M P S O N A V E ES T E S P A R K , C O 220178 IJL / DDK 2023.10.25 SP R I N G H I L L S U I T E S PRELIMINARY THIS DRAWING HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED BY GOVERNING AGENCIES AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE 'E9EL2PMEN7PLAN 6PRIN*+ILL68I7E6 APAR&EL2)LAN'6I78A7E'IN7+E:E672)7+EN2R7+EA672) 6E&7I2N72:N6+IPN2R7+RAN*E:E672)7+E6I;7+ PRIN&IPALMERI'IAN&28N7Y2)LARIMER67A7E2)&2L2RA'2 TO W N O F E S T E S P A R K C O M M E N T S 03 / X X / 2 0 2 4 1 LE*EN' SPOT ELEVATION 100 100 PROPOSED MINOR CONTOUR EXISTING MAJOR CONTOUR EXISTING MINOR CONTOUR PROPOSED MAJOR CONTOUR DRAINAGE FLOW ARROW 100.00 *RA'IN*A%%RE9IA7I2N6 HP HIGH POINT LP LOW POINT %EN&+MAR. SITE BENCHMARK NO. 1 WAS USED AS THE PRIMARY ELEVATION BENCHMARK AND HAS A NAVD88 ELEVATION OF 7455.95" WHICH WAS ESTABLISHED BY GPS RTK OBSERVATIONS. PROPOSED SWALE *RA'IN*PLANN27E6 1. ACCORDING TO FIRM PANEL 08069C1113F, DATED DECEMBER 19, 2006 NO 100 YEAR FLOOD PLAIN EXISTS ON SITE. 2. RETAINING WALL DESIGN BY OTHERS. NEEDS TO BE VERIFIED & DESIGNED BY A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER. 3. STAIRWAYS HAVING 4 OR MORE RISERS OR RISING MORE THAN 30", WHICHEVER IS LESS, SHALL BE EQUIPPED WITH AT LEAST 1 HANDRAIL; AND 1 STAIRRAIL SYSTEM ALONG EACH UNPROTECTED SIDE OR EDGE. 4. OFFSITE GRADING WILL REQUIRE A TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION EASEMENT. PROPOSED STORM SEWER SPILL CURB AND GUTTER 1-800-922-1987 UTILITY NOTIFICATION CENTER OF COLORADO UNCC CALL BEFORE YOU DIG 811 OR 24 X X X X X X X X X X T T T T T T E E E E E E E E T G G G G X X X X X X X X X X TRACT "B" MIZER MRD PARCEL NO.: 2529110702 OWNER(S): BRETT, QUINN/GLEN/JANICE LOT 33 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS PARCEL NO.: 2529105033 OWNER(S): PERRY, DIANE V PA R C E L N O . : 25 2 9 1 1 0 7 0 2 OW N E R ( S ) : A P C CR O C K E R R A N C H L L C LOT 37 AMND PLAT LOTS 35-41 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS SUB PARCEL NO.: 2529107902 OWNER(S): DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE OF COLORADO LOT 30A AMND PLAT OF LOTS 30, 31, & 32 & S1 2 OF LOT 26 OLYMPUS HEIGHTS AND A PORTION OF THE SW CORNER OF VISTA PARK PARCEL NO.: 2529113030 OWNER(S): CASS, LYMAN/HELEN LIVING TRUST PARCEL 2, EXHIBIT A, RECEPTION NO 20030130209 SEE SURVEYOR'S NOTE 12 3. 5 % 3. 2 % 4 . 4 % 2.2 % 6 . 2 % 4. 1 % 8. 2 % 3. 9 % 3. 7 % 5 . 1 % 8 . 4 % 5 : 1 10.5% 5.1% 6.3%8.8% 4. 5 % 14 . 3 % 9. 9 % 2 . 5 % TF=7460.14 7458.90 LP7458.92 LP7458.96 LP7459.05 LP 7458.10 LP 7469.13 LP 7465.96 LP 7454.71 LP 7468.48 LP 7469.79 LP 7458.17 LP 7459.82 HP 7459.78 HP 7459.74 HP 7459.70 HP 7497.26 HP 0.5% 7. 4 % 1 0 . 0 % 2.2% 2.2% 2.0%2.1%2.0%2.1%2.0%2.1%2.0%2.0% 4. 0 % 7447.14 HP BIG TH O M P S O N A V E MA L L R D PROPOSED BUILDING 7446.08 LP 6.4 % 10 . 3 % 8. 0 % 4. 2 % 1 2 . 4 % 1 5 . 1 % 7 . 2 % 1 . 5 % 4 . 3 % RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') SWALE SWALE SWALE RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT= 17') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=15') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT: 11') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=4') SWALE WINDOW WELLS UNDERGROUND DETENTION RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=25') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=15') VALLEY GUTTER WINDOW WELLS VALLEY GUTTER RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=19') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=5') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=5') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=10') RETAINING WALL (MAX HEIGHT=3') 3 : 1 4:1 8. 1 % 7. 6 % 7.1% SWALE 7480.64 HP 7448.42 HP 0+00 0+87 0+00 1+001+05 0+ 0 0 0+ 6 5 0 + 0 0 0 + 6 2 0 + 0 0 0 + 6 7 A B C D E POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALLS (6' HEIGHT & 6' SPACING) 2. 0 % POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALLS (6' HEIGHT & 6' SPACING) POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (6' HEIGHT & 6' SPACING) POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (6' HEIGHT & 6' SPACING) POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (6' HEIGHT & 6' SPACING) 7455 7460 7465 7470 7475 7480 7485 7490 7495 7455 7460 7465 7470 7475 7480 7485 7490 7495 0+00 0+87 6' 1' PROPOSED GRADE EXISTING GROUND 15' 15% 15% 1' 6' (TYP.) CURRENT RETAINING WALL POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (TYP) PROPOSED BUILDING 7465 7470 7475 7480 7485 7490 7495 7500 7505 7465 7470 7475 7480 7485 7490 7495 7500 7505 0+00 1+00 1+05 PROPOSED GRADE EXISTING GROUND 15% 15%CURRENT RETAINING WALL POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (TYP) 15% 6' (TYP.) 22' 1'6' 1' 6' 1' 6' 1' 7450 7455 7460 7465 7470 7475 7480 7485 7490 7450 7455 7460 7465 7470 7475 7480 7485 7490 0+00 0+65 PROPOSED BUILDING PROPOSED GRADE EXISTING GROUND CURRENT RETAINING WALL POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (TYP) 8' 1' 6' 1'15% 6' 7435 7440 7445 7450 7455 7460 7465 7470 7435 7440 7445 7450 7455 7460 7465 7470 0+00 0+62 PROPOSED BUILDING PROPOSED GRADE EXISTING GROUND CURRENT RETAINING WALL POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (TYP) 8' 1' 6' 1'6' 15% 7440 7445 7450 7455 7460 7465 7440 7445 7450 7455 7460 7465 0+00 0+67 8' 1' 1' 6' PROPOSED GRADE EXISTING GROUND CURRENT RETAINING WALL POTENTIAL TIERED RETAINING WALL (TYP) 15% 1" = ' (HORIZONTAL) '' 30 60300 SPRING HILL SUITES - ESTES PARK TIERED RETAINING WALL INVESTIGATION 2024.04.11 1 OF 1 SECTION A (SCALE: 1" = 10') SECTION B (SCALE: 1" = 10') SECTION C (SCALE: 1" = 10') SECTION D (SCALE: 1" = 10') SECTION E (SCALE: 1" = 10') LEGEND CURRENT RETAINING WALL POTENTIAL RETAINING WALL 2425