BACKGROUND REPORT for the Peoria-Smith Station Area Plan

Transcription

1 BACKGROUND REPORT for the Peoria-Smith Station Area Plan Peoria-Smith station I-225 Corridor City of Aurora October, 2009

2 Acknowledgements Mayor Mayor Ed Tauer City of Aurora Planning Department Robert Watkins, Director John Fernandez, Comprehensive Planning Manager Loretta Daniel, Principal Planner Huiliang Liu, Principal Planner Ed Armold, Principal Planner Public Works Dick Havercamp, Manager of Traffic Services Rick Hunter, Project Engineer Chris Carnahan, Operations Manager Parks and Recreation Jay Pierce, Principal Planner Curt Bish, Principal Planner RTD FasTracks Team Larry Warner, I-225 LRT Corridor Project Manager Bill Sirois, Manager of Transit Oriented Development Michael Baker Corp. Dwight Schock, Vice President Pete Hankovsky, Consultant Deputy Project Manager Consultant Team Crandall Arambula PC, Prime Consultant George Crandall, Principal Don Arambula, Principal Erin Carter, Associate/Project Coordinator Julia Reed, Urban Designer ArLand Land Use Economics Arleen Taniwaki, Principal and Manager Navjoy Consulting, Traffic/Transportation Planning Navin Nageli, Principal Karl Packer, Associate Vice-President Hartwig & Associates, Infrastructure Analysis/Cost Estimates Danielle Smith, Civil Engineer

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4 Table of Contents Introduction Overview and Existing Conditions... 2 Public Involvement... 4 Vision and Objectives... 5 Fundamental Concept... 6 Build-Out Concept... 8 Land Use Land Use Public Space Circulation Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Automobile and Bus Circulation New and Enhanced Streets Street Categories Implementation Strategy Overview RTD Opening Day Projects RTD Phase 2 Projects Catalyst Projects Private Development Projects Design Standards Appendix Traffic Analysis...To Be Added Cost Estimates...To Be Added

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6 Table of Figures Figure 1. Existing Conditions Diagram... 3 Figure 2. Community Workshop Figure 3. Community Workshop Figure 4. TOD Character Diagram... 5 Figure 5. Fundamental Concept Diagram... 7 Figure 6. Development Table... 8 Figure 7. Build-Out Concept Diagram... 9 Figure 8. Station Areas - View North Figure 9. Station Areas - View South Figure 10. Land Use Diagram Figure 11. Park Blocks Photograph Figure 12. Public Spaces Table Figure 13. Public Spaces Diagram Figure 14. Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Diagram Figure 15. Proposed Smith Road Auto & Truck Routes Figure 16. Automobile and Bus Circulation Diagram Figure 17. New and Enhanced Streets Diagram Figure 18. Street Categories Diagram Figure 19. Proposed Nome Street Types Figure 20. Proposed Nome Park Block Street Section Figure 21. Proposed Nome Retail Street Section Figure 22. Proposed Nome Commercial/Office Street Section Figure 23. Existing 33rd Avenue Section Figure 24. Proposed 33rd Avenue Section Figure 25. Existing Moline Street Section Figure 26. Proposed Moline Street Section Figure 27. Proposed Neighborhood Street Section Figure 28. Proposed Neighborhood Park Street Section Figure 29. Build-Out Concept Diagram Figure 30. Proposed Opening Day Projects Diagram Figure 31. Proposed RTD Phase 2 Projects Diagram Figure 32. Catalyst Projects Diagram Figure 33. Private Development Projects Diagram Figure 34. Ground-Floor Retail and Commercial Examples Figure 35. Ground-Floor Uses Diagram Figure 36. Buildings Built to Property Line Photographs Figure 37. Required Build-To Lines Diagram Figure 38. Street Edge Activated by Use Figure 39. Street Edge Activated by Doorways and Windows Figure 40. Required Active Edges Diagram Figure 41. Above Grade Residential Parking Figure 42. Above Grade Office Parking Figure 43. Building Heights Diagram... 53

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8 Introduction

9 Overview and Existing Conditions The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan is part of an ambitious transit-oriented development (TOD) planning process undertaken by the City of Aurora, Colorado, in partnership with the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The Smith-Peoria Station will be located near the Peoria Street and I-70 junction, a vehicular gateway to the City of Aurora and the Fitzsimons Medical Complex the City of Aurora s primary employment center. This location makes the Smith-Peoria station area regionally accessible and highly visible. The Smith-Peoria Station provides regional access to both the Interstate 225 (I-225) light rail and the East Corridor commuter rail. The I-225 light rail corridor will provide service south, through the City of Aurora, to the Southeast light rail corridor. The East Corridor commuter rail will provide east-west service to the Denver International Airport and downtown Denver. The Smith-Peoria Station will also provide park-n-ride facilities and bus transfers. Plan Purpose The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan provides transit-oriented development that is integrated with the regionally accessible commuter and light rail station and bus transfer and park-nride facilities. The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan serves as a tool to proactively plan for development rather than reactively respond to development pressures. This Plan is not intended to mandate redevelopment for property owners who do not wish to redevelop. Rather it provides a framework for future development, should existing property owners choose to redevelop, sell or relocate. Concurrent Planning The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan was developed concurrently with the following: Smith-Peoria Station Environmental Evaluation (EE) RTD s analysis of alternative trackway alignments, transit platforms, and park-n-ride and bus facilities. The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan reflects RTD s preferred EE options Strategic Parking Plan and Program Study The City of Aurora s projected commuter parking demand associated with the addition of light rail transit. The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan satisfies the projected demand for 930 parking spaces the high-end 2015 projection identified in the study as well as the projected parking demand established in the I-225 Environmental Evaluation Fitzsimons Area Wide Multi-Modal Transportation Study City of Aurora study of the transportation needs in the Fitzsimons area associated with new development and the cumulative impacts of development along the entire I-225 transportation corridor. The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan informs the land use and circulation recommendations in this study Existing Conditions Existing Land Use Existing land uses within 1/2-mile of the Smith-Peoria Station are primarily industrial uses, including warehousing and manufacturing facilities, a concrete batch plant and the City of Aurora water treatment plant. There are also correctional and detention facilities including the Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS) and the Denver County Jail. Other uses along Peoria Street include a family health facility, a church, a fire station and various retail and commercial uses. The Smith-Peoria Station is located within one mile of Stapleton, the largest new urbanist project in the United States, which includes residential, commercial and office development in a suburban context. In the Smith-Peoria station area, there are 22 properties with high potential for transit-supportive redevelopment. These properties, identified on the Existing Conditions Diagram, are either vacant or under utilized and are located in the proximity of the planned light rail and commuter rail station. Existing Transportation The primary north-south vehicular route in the study area is Peoria Street and the primary east-west routes are, I-70, Smith Road, Baranmor Parkway and Fitzsimons Parkway. The Union Pacific (UP) freight rail alignment runs east-west through the study area. Vehicles traveling on Peoria Street are frequently delayed by freight trains crossing this at-grade intersection. Delays are likely to increase with the addition of the East Corridor commuter rail. Sand Creek Regional Greenway Trail, a 14-mile pedestrian and bicycle multiuse trail, connects to the High Line Canal, Tollgate Creek and the Platte River Greenway in Commerce City. Smith Road provides continuous eastwest automobile and truck access from Highway E-470 to Colorado Boulevard. The planned Smith-Peoria Station will impact Smith Road between Moline and Peoria streets. A proposed realignment of Smith Road is described in the circulation section of this document. Planned Projects The study area includes the following planned projects: Park-n-Ride and Bus Transfer RTD has identified vacant parcels (5) and (6) as potential locations for park-nride and bus transfer facilities Aurora Housing Authority Mixed-income multi-family housing planned on a 5-acre site INS Expansion of current detention facility to accommodate 1200 additional beds Baranmor Ditch Reconfiguration of stormwater drainage-way to feed into to Sand Creek 2 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

10 QUARI ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. MOLINE ST. LIMA ST. 1/2 Mile Radius INTERSTATE 70 E. 40TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Planned Light Rail Platform E. 39TH AVE. E. 37TH AVE. Planned Commuter Rail Platform Vehicle Delays E. 38TH AVE. EXISTING Denver County Jail LEGEND UP Freight Rail Alignment Automotive Services Warehouse Warehouse Vacant 5 Vacant 6 Vacant 7 Warehouse Light Rail Platform Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment Warehouse Warehouse Warehouse Oakland Business Park Layton Trucking Company Commercial Businesses Convenience Restaurants Cement Batch Plant Multiple Ownerships Warehouses City of Aurora Water City of Aurora Vacant Automotive Testing 22 U-Store Self-Storage E. 33RD AVE OAKLAND ST. 20 E. 30THAVE. 21 SAND CREEK REGIONAL TRAIL Stapleton INS S A N D C R E E K EXISTING Planned Baranmor Ditch Planned Aurora Housing Authority E. 31ST AVE. E. 3OTH AVE. Planned INS Expansion Sand Creek Regional Greenway Trail E. 33RD AVE. BARANMOR PKWY. Morris Heights Neighborhood FITZSIMONS PKWY. Figure 1: Existing Conditions Diagram (2006 Aerial Photograph) Introduction 3

11 Public Involvement The Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan was created in response to the public s vision for future growth and is based on information gathered through an extensive community involvement process that included several stakeholder meetings and three community workshops. Community Workshops Three community workshops for the Smith-Peoria Station were held at North Middle School, Montview Boulevard, Aurora, CO. Community Workshop 1 April 3, 2008 Participants provided input that was incorporated into the Plan s objectives, described on the following page. Community Workshop 2 July 23, 2008 Participants provided comments on land use and circulation alternatives and selected their preferred alternative. Figure 2. Community Workshop #1 Station Discussion Group Community Workshop 3 November 5, 2008 Participants provided comments on the refined preferred land use and circulation alternative. During each workshop, community input was documented using individual response sheet questionnaires. A summary record of public input received was produced for each of the three workshops. Prior to each public workshop, additional stakeholder meetings were conducted with property owners, residents, City staff, and RTD staff. Figure 3. Community Workshop #2 Station Discussion Group 4 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

12 Vision and Objectives Station Area Vision Each of the nine stations on the I-225 light rail corridor are envisioned to have unique characteristics that complement the other stations to define the overall character of the corridor. Smith-Peoria Station Area Vision TOD Character Employment center Transportation Functions Commuter rail, light rail and bus transfer station Park-n-ride facility Quebec St Havana St. East Light Rail Corridor Peoria St. Montview Blvd. Colfax Ave. Peoria St. Smith-Peoria Chambers Rd. Montview Fitzsimons-Colfax 13th Avenue Primary Land Uses Employment with some housing Plan Objectives Objectives for the Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan were derived from public input gathered during Community Workshop 1. The Plan s objectives are to: Improve multi-modal connectivity and access to/from the station Locate the station platform west of Peoria Street Address auto traffic impacts on adjacent streets Respect and protect existing neighborhoods Provide a mix of uses to serve the neighborhood Create a safe pedestrian environment at the station The station area vision and plan objectives were used to guide the planning process and evaluate design alternatives throughout the project. Leetsdale Dr. Legend Light Rail Station Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment Employment Center Residential Neighborhood Employment and Residential Downtown 6th Ave. Alameda Ave. Mississippi Ave. I-225 Light Rail Corridor Jewell Ave. Iliff Ave. Yale Ave. Nine Mile Abilene Florida Iliff Metro Center Figure 4. TOD Character Diagram Introduction 5

13 Fundamental Concept The Smith-Peoria Station Area supports the planned light rail and commuter rail stations by providing bus transfer and park-n-ride facilities in a transit-oriented office district that includes supporting retail, commercial and housing uses. The Fundamental Concept Diagram illustrates the key concepts of the Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan. These concepts, listed below, respond to the community s vision and objectives. Primary Station Access Street 30th Avenue and Nome Street serve as the primary pedestrian, bicycle and auto route through the station area, connecting the existing Morris Heights neighborhood to the Smith-Peoria Station and the transitsupportive commercial development on Nome Street Truck Route Smith Road, Moline Street and 33rd Avenue serve as the primary truck route through the station area. This route bypasses Nome Street allowing trucks to move efficiently through the station area, reducing conflicts with pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic Transit Supportive Retail Retail uses proposed along Nome Street north of Station Avenue generate activity near the commuter and light rail platforms and provide goods and services for area residents, employees, and transit riders Transit-Supportive Office Mediumand high-density office development located Office development located adjacent to commuter and light rail stations supports higher levels of potential ridership by encouraging employees to commute by transit. Regional Greenway Extension A series of public green spaces between the existing Sand Creek Regional Greenway and Station Avenue extend the open space into the station area. The greenway extension serves as an organizing amenity for adjacent office and housing development Station Parking and Bus Transfers Planned RTD park-n-ride and bus transfer facilities will encourage transit ridership by providing convenient commuter parking and bus connections to local and regional destinations. These facilities have been located to provide direct access to the station while maximizing transit-oriented development potential adjacent to the station. 6 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

14 MOLINE ST. Interstate 70 Primary Station Access Street Truck Route To Union Station To Stapleton Transit Supportive Retail Planned Commuter Rail Alignment Planned Light Rail and Commuter Rail Station RTD STATION AVE. Planned Light Rail Alignment Grade Separated Rail Crossing Station Parking and Bus Transfers To Denver Intl. Airport Transit Supportive Office Regional Greenway Extension 33RD AVE. Sand Creek Greenway 30th Avenue 30TH AVE.. Existing Morris Heights Neighborhood To Montview Light Rail Station Figure 5. Fundamental Concept Diagram Introduction 7

15 Build-Out Concept The build-out concept illustrates a realistic vision of the desired form and density of the station area once all identified parcels are fully developed. The Build-Out Concept Diagram is an essential tool for identifying and creating policy and regulatory updates that define permitted density, parking requirements, and building heights in the station area. Within a gross area of acres, 68.8 acres of development and redevelopment are proposed. The remaining 32.6 acres include new streets, sidewalks, RTD trackway and the RTD bus transfer area. No transit-oriented redevelopment is anticipated for existing parcels which are indicated in light gray on the build-out diagram. As these parcels redevelop over time, transit-supportive infill is encouraged. The build-out diagram identifies areas A, B and C. Each of these development areas include public and private projects that are likely to redevelop within a similar time frame. The development table below indicates each area s development potential. A potential 1,000 space surface parkn-ride lot has been identified north of the Union Pacific (UP) rail line within the City and County of Denver. This lot is identified for future expansion purposes only and would require the review and approval of the City and County of Denver and the property owner(s). Development Area A: Gross Area 22.9 (indicated by blue outline on the Build-Out Concept Diagram) Land Use Site Area (Acres) Retail 5.3 Station Plaza ,700 SF (ground fl oor) RTD Structured Parking 3.5 1,200 SP 302,400 SF RTD Surface Parking SP 487,100 SF Stormwater Detention 1.7 Development Area 18.7 Acres*** Net Density (Dwelling Units per Acre) Dwelling Units (DU) or Parking Spaces (SP) Total Area by Use (Square Feet) Development Area B: Gross Area 31.8 (indicated by red outline on the Build-Out Concept Diagram) Site Area Net Density Land Use Total Area by Use (Acres) (Dwelling Units per Acre) Dwelling Units (DU) (Square Feet) Office ,680,000 SF Commercial * 36,000 SF (ground fl oor) Public Space 2.2 Development Area 21.2 Acres*** Development Area C: Gross Area 46.7 (indicated by black outline on the Build-Out Concept Diagram) Land Use Site Area Net Density (Acres) (Dwelling Units per Acre) Dwelling Units (DU) Total Area by Use (Square Feet) Office ,000 SF Housing ,700 ** 1,829,330 SF Public Space 3.9 Development Area 28.9 Acres*** 68.8 Acres*** TOTAL DEVELOPMENT AREA Figure 6. Smith-Peoria Station Development Table (by area) * The acreage of ground-fl oor commercial uses that are located within offi ce blocks has been included in the offi ce site area. ** Housing estimates assume a 1,000 SF dwelling unit size. *** Acreage excludes streets, sidewalks, RTD trackway and the RTD bus transfer area. 8 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

16 A ST. B ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. LIMA ST. E. 39TH AVE. E. 37TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Potential Potential 1,000 Space Park-n-Ride Possible Overpass/Underpass MOLINE ST. Area A LEGEND Light Rail Platform E. 33RD AVE. OAKLAND ST. INS Area B BARANMOR PKWY. 1/2 Mile Radius Area C RTD Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment RTD Park-n-Ride E. 30THAVE. QUARI ST. E. 31ST AVE. E. 3OTH AVE. Retail Mixed Use Office (Retail/Com./Office/Housing) Mixed-Use Housing (Retail/Com./Housing/Office) RTD Structured Parking Surface Parking Station Plaza Stormwater Detention Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Existing Building Existing Parcel S A N D C R E E K Build-Out Summary Development Area: 67.7 Acres Retail...51,700 SF Commercial...36,000 SF Office...2,200,000 SF Housing...1,700 Dwelling Units RTD Park-n-Ride...1,980 Spaces Proposed Public Space Acres Note: Build-out Summary totals have been rounded FITZSIMONS PKWY. Figure 7. Build-Out Concept Diagram Introduction 9

17 The build-out illustratives demonstrate the land uses, transportation improvements and conceptual massing that may be achieved through implementation of the Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan. LEGEND: RTD Light Rail Station RTD Park-n-Ride Light Rail Alignment Retail Mixed-Use Office (Office/Commercial) Mixed-Use Housing (Retail/Commercial/Housing/Office) RTD Structured Parking Surface Parking Private Greenspace Proposed Public Space Enhanced Public Space Existing Public Space Existing Building Existing Parcel BARANMOR PKWY. 30TH AVE. Figure 8. Smith-Peoria Station Area View North 10 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

18 30TH AVE. BARANMOR PKWY. MOLINE ST. 33RD. Figure 9. Smith-Peoria Station Area View South Introduction 11

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20 Land Use

21 Land Use The proposed land use concept provides transit-supportive office and housing uses that capitalize on the area s regional accessibility and support the planned commuter and light rail station. The recommended land uses are consistent with the Plan s fundamental concept, the community s objectives, and planned projects. The mixed-use designation on the Land Use Diagram indicates that a vertical mix of uses is permitted. Private parking should be located on all residential and office sites. Where surface lots are not indicated on the diagram, above- or below grade parking should be provided. Mixed-Use Office Proposed office uses near the Smith- Peoria Station will support commuter rail and light rail by providing a base of users who ride transit for commuting purposes. The office uses are located: Adjacent to desirable amenities, including two proposed public spaces Along transportation corridors that provide good drive-by visibility and regional access Peoria Street and Smith Road On parcels sized to accommodate Class A office building footprints On parcels sized to accommodate adequate on-site parking that meets accepted real estate market requirements Mixed-Use Housing The proposed housing uses will provide a base of residents near the Smith-Peoria Station who will support transit-ridership by using commuter and light rail transit as an alternative to driving. The housing uses will establish a desirable neighborhood that: Provides mixed-income and market rate housing options, including rental and owned units Provides a mix of housing types including condominiums, apartments and townhouses Is located adjacent to desirable residential amenities, including proposed parks, the existing Sand Creek Regional Greenway Trail, and the planned commuter rail and light rail stations Incudes concealed on-site parking that meets accepted real estate market requirements Incompatible uses exist in areas where mixed-use housing is proposed. These uses include the Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS) detention facility, a concrete batch plant and a City of Aurora water treatment plant. While these uses may redevelop in the long term, the following strategies should be taken to lessen the shortterm impacts: Provide landscape screening Establish building setbacks Orient buildings away from undesirable uses Retail Retail uses in the station area are proposed along an extension of Nome Street, southwest of the Smith-Peoria Station. Retail uses will generate activity near the commuter and light rail station and provide goods and services for area residents, employees and transit riders. Retail in this location will benefit from the drive-by visibility and regional accessibility created by the realignment of Smith Road to Nome Street. Retail uses should be limited to businesses that engage in the sale of merchandise or that are restaurants. These uses will activate the station by providing up to 18 hours of daily activity and eyes on the station The Implementation Strategy in this document provides further detail on the recommended ground-floor retail uses and proposes locations for groundfloor commercial uses as well. RTD Structured Parking An RTD park-n-ride structure for commuter rail and light rail transit patrons will be built south of Smith Road and west of Peoria Street. The parking structure will provide up to 1,200 spaces on three levels accommodating some of RTD s projected need for 1,900 parking spaces by RTD Surface Parking An RTD surface park-n-ride lot is planned for commuter rail and light rail transit patrons. The lot location is planned for the area south of Smith Road, on the east side of the Nome Street extension. The surface parking lots can provide up to 780 spaces accommodating RTD s projected need for 1,900 parking spaces by A potential surface park-n-ride lot has been identified north of the Union Pacific (UP) rail line within the City and County of Denver. While not part of the Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan, a park-n-ride in this location could serve transit riders commuting from areas north of the UP and help commuters avoid the delays caused by freight rail trains crossing Peoria Street. This lot is identified for future expansion purposes only and would require the review and approval of the City and County of Denver and the property owner(s). Stormwater Detention Stormwater detention basins are a planned element of RTD s park-n-ride facilities. These areas are intended to function as flood control facilities, collecting stormwater runoff from surrounding development and parking lots. These detention areas should be designed as attractive, vegetated areas. A planned detention basin is located between Moline and Nome streets. Public spaces are described in detail on the following page. 14 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

22 A ST. B ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. LIMA ST. E. 39TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Potential E. 37TH AVE. Possible Overpass/Underpass MOLINE ST. STATION AVE. LEGEND Concrete Batch Plant City of Aurora Water Treatment Light Rail Platform Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment UP Freight Rail Alignment E. 33RD AVE. OAKLAND ST. Planned INS Detention Facility Existing INS E. 30THAVE. BARANMOR PKWY. Aurora Housing Authority QUARI ST. 1/2 Mile Radius E. 31ST AVE. E. 3OTH AVE. RTD RTD Park-n-Ride Mixed Use Office (Retail/Com./Office/Housing) Mixed-Use Housing (Retail/Com./Housing/Office) Retail RTD Structured Parking RTD Surface Parking S A N D C R E E K Stormwater Detention Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Existing Building Existing Parcel FITZSIMONS PKWY. Figure 10. Land Use Diagram Land Use 15

23 Public Space Public spaces in the Smith-Peoria Station area provide locations for passive recreation and serve as visual amenities for nearby office and housing development. The Public Spaces Diagram on the following page identifies key locations for proposed public spaces including: Station Plaza An attractive passthrough area for transit patrons that includes trees, planting beds, and benches Moline Park A green amenity with opportunities for informal, passive recreation that will attract highdensity office uses Pedestrian Greenway A pedestrian and bicycle pass-through that provides shared green space for adjacent housing Nome Greenway A linear organizing feature for the station area that serves as an off-street pedestrian and bicycle connection between the existing Morris Heights neighborhood, the proposed Nome retail uses, the Smith-Peoria Station, and Station Park Station Park A public space located south of the proposed park-n-ride facilities, Station Park will serve as a window to the station platform for office uses to the south Baranmor Park An informal, neighborhood park that will serve as an amenity for adjacent high-density housing uses The proposed and enhanced public spaces will: Serve as focal points for new development Support high-density office development and viable market-rate housing Be publicly accessible at all hours Figure 11. Pedestrian Greenway, Portland, Oregon The Public Spaces Table below indicates a total of 7.2 acres of proposed public space within the Smith-Peoria station area. Public Spaces Location Proposed Area (Acres) Station Plaza 1.1 Moline Park Pedestrian Greenway Nome Greenway Station Park Baranmor Park TOTAL PROPOSED PUBLIC SPACE Acres Figure 12. Public Spaces Table 16 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

24 A ST. B B ST. ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. LIMA ST. E. 39TH AVE. E. 37TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Potential Station Plaza (1.1 Acres) SMITH RD. MOLINE ST. Moline Park (1.0 Acres) Pedestrian Greenway (1.0 Acres) STATION AVE. E. 33RD AVE. OAKLAND ST. INS Station Park (1.2 Acres) Baranmor Park (1.1 Acres) BARANMOR PKWY. BARANMOR PKWY. 1/2 Mile Radius Nome Park Blocks (1.8 Acres) E. 30TH AVE. QUARI ST. E. 31ST AVE. E. 3OTH AVE. LEGEND Light Rail Platform Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment RTD RTD Park-n-Ride S A N D C R E E K Redevelopment Parcel Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Floor Commercial Existing Building Existing Parcel FITZSIMONS PKWY. Figure 13. Public Spaces Diagram Land Use 17

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26 Circulation

27 Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation The pedestrian and bicycle circulation system provides safe, direct, convenient and attractive pedestrian and bicycle connections between the Smith-Peoria Station, the existing Morris Heights neighborhood and the Sand Creek Regional Trail, and other key regional destinations. The Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Diagram incorporates the existing and planned bicycle routes identified by the Northwest Aurora Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. In order to provide a regional station access system, pedestrian and bicycle routes are identified for the entire station area. Routes within the City and County of Denver would require the review and approval from the local agencies prior to implementation. Pedestrian Circulation Recommended on- and off-street pedestrian routes in the Smith-Peoria station area promote transit use by providing walkable connections between the existing Morris Heights neighborhood, the planned Smith- Peoria Station and proposed office and housing development. Pedestrian routes within the station area should comply with City of Aurora Urban Street Standards and include the following elements: Wide sidewalks Street trees Special paving Special lighting Bicycle Circulation The recommended bicycle network in the Smith-Peoria station area will serve as an amenity for development and contribute to a significant reduction in vehicle miles traveled by providing an alternate mode of transportation within the station area. This network is a combination of on- and off-street bicycle routes that provide connections between existing and proposed neighborhoods and key destinations, including the Stapleton development, Park Lane Elementary School, proposed public space amenities and the Fitzsimons Medical Complex (Aurora s primary employment center). This network At a minimum, bicycle routes should comply with City of Aurora Urban Street Standards and may include the following design elements: Bicycle route signs Adequate space for cyclists within bike lanes or on off-street bikeways Cyclist-activated, motion-detecting crossing signals and special surfaces such as painted lanes, striping and bike box treatments at major intersections Storage lockers and covered racks conveniently located at the station Protected Bike Paths Protected bike paths provide comfortable dedicated routes separated from vehicular traffic by a raised curb and planting zone for riders of all ages and abilities. The designated bike route should also be differentiated from the sidewalk through use of striping, signage and paving materials. A protected bike path is recommended on the west side of Nome Street and the south side of 30th Avenue west of Peoria Street. The protected bike path provides access to the Smith- Peoria Station from the existing Morris Heights neighborhood and from proposed housing development south of 33rd Avenue. Bicycle Lanes On-street bicycle lanes dedicated lanes located within the roadway provide commuter bicyclists with on-street routes to key destinations and connections to off-street bicycle systems. The following north-south streets should include bicycle lanes: Peoria Street Moline Street Nome Street north of 37th Avenue The following east-west streets should include bicycle lanes: E. 40th Avenue (west of Peoria Street) Smith Road (west of Nome Street) E. 33rd Avenue Baranmor Parkway E. 30th Avenue (east of Peoria Street) Multi-Use Paths The existing Sand Creek multi-use path, located along the south bank of Sand Creek, serves as an off-street route for walkers, joggers, and recreational and commuter bicyclists. This route includes a combined pedestrian and bicycle path that connects east to the High Line Canal and Tollgate Creek trails and west to the Platte River Greenway trail in Commerce City. Multi-Use Underpass A multi-use underpass is proposed to connect pedestrians and bicyclists from the Nome Street extension to the existing Nome Street north of 37th Avenue. This underpass will provide a safe, convenient alternative to the Peoria Street route, which has over 30,000 vehicle trips per day and regular delays at the Peoria Street/ Union Pacific rail intersection. 20 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

28 LIMA ST. MOLINE ST. QUARI ST. B ST. A ST. B ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. To Montbello Neighborhood INTERSTATE 70 1/2 Mile Radius E. 40TH AVE. E. 39TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Potential E. 38TH AVE. E. 37TH AVE. Possible Overpass/Underpass To Stapleton STATION AVE. E. 33RD AVE. E. 33RD AVE. BARANMOR PKWY. To East Morris Heights Neighborhood OAKLAND ST. INS West Morris Heights Neighborhood LEGEND Light Rail Platform E. 3OTH AVE. E. 31ST AVE. To Park Lane Elementary School Commuter Rail Platform RTD Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment RTD Park-n-Ride Pedestrian Circulation To Stapleton Sand Creek Open Space S A N D C R E E K Protected Bicycle Path Bicycle Lanes Multi-use Path Multi-use Underpass Redevelopment Parcel Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Stapleton FITZSIMONS PKWY. To Fitzsimons Medical Complex Existing Building Existing Parcel Figure 14. Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Diagram Circulation 21

29 Automobile, Truck and Bus Circulation The proposed auto, truck and bus circulation routes support transitoriented development by directing heavy traffic away from neighborhood streets and promote light rail and commuter rail ridership by providing access to the station s bus transfer and park-n-ride facilities. The Automobile and Bus Circulation Diagram identifies the primary auto and bus routes in the Smith-Peoria station area. Automobile and Truck Circulation The proposed automobile routes direct through-traffic to and from the Smith- Peoria Station to major auto corridors including Peoria Street, Smith Road and I-70. Local traffic is allowed to disperse on neighborhood streets. Due to the location of the planned light rail platforms and the tail-track that is necessary for train maneuvering at the end of the line, RTD will be removing Smith Road between Moline and Peoria streets. To ensure the integrity of transitoriented development in the station area, the following auto and truck routes are proposed: Proposed Auto Route Realign Smith Road to connect to Nome Street. The redirection of auto traffic from Smith Road to Nome Street to 33rd Avenue will provide the drive-by traffic that is essential for the success of retail and commercial development proposed along Nome Street Proposed Truck Route Moline Street and 33rd Avenue are proposed as a truck route in order to ensure that Nome Street can be designed as a narrow, pedestrian friendly street Currently, vehicles traveling on Peoria Street may be delayed at the at-grade UP freight train crossing located north of Smith Road. More frequent delays may occur with commuter trains passing through this intersection. To improve vehicle circulation and prevent train-related delays, an overpass or underpass is proposed on Peoria street over the UP freight rail and planned commuter rail lines. Bus Circulation The Smith-Peoria Station is intended to serve as a bus-to-rail transfer station. To service to Smith-Peoria station area and provide access to the station, new bus routes must be added and the existing route 121 must be re-routed as indicated on the diagram. The Smith-Peoria study area is currently served by route 121 and route PTHE. Proposed bus routes and existing route modifications include: Addition of bus service on E. 33rd Avenue and Nome Street to Smith Road, servicing the Smith-Peoria Station and Stapleton neighborhood Potential realignment of route 121 from Peoria Street to Baranmor Parkway and Smith Road in the event that an overpass or underpass is constructed on Peoria Street at the UP rail creating a grade separation from Smith Road Smith Road Removal Proposed Smith Road Realignment Proposed Truck Route MOLINE ST. Planned Light Rail Tail-Track Planned Light Rail Platforms Existing Smith Road Alignment Proposed Auto Route 33RD AVE. Figure 15. Proposed Smith Road Auto and Truck Routes 22 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

30 QUARI ST. A ST. B B ST. ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. MOLINE ST. LIMA ST. INTERSTATE 70 1/2 Mile Radius E. 40TH AVE. To Montbello Neighborhood 1/4 Mile Radius Potential 121 E. 39TH AVE. E. 38TH AVE. E. 37TH AVE. Possible Overpass/Underpass To Stapleton STATION AVE. To East Morris Heights Neighborhood E. 33RD AVE. PTHE BARANMOR PKWY. 121 PTHE E. 33RD AVE. OAKLAND ST. LEGEND Light Rail Platform Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment UP Freight Rail Alignment RTD RTD Park-n-Ride Auto Circulation Truck Route Bus Circulation (Existing) Bus Circulation (Potential Realignment) Bus Circulation (Proposed) Bus Routes INS S A N D C R E E K E. 31ST AVE. E. 30TH AVE. To Fitzsimons Medical Complex FITZSIMONS PKWY. West Morris Heights Neighborhood 121 To East Morris Heights Neighborhood Redevelopment Parcel Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Existing Building Existing Parcel Figure 16. Automobile and Bus Circulation Diagram Circulation 23

31 New and Enhanced Streets New and enhanced streets, sidewalks and intersections help to create a comprehensive street grid that will provide convenient multi-modal access to proposed development in the Smith-Peoria station area, while strengthening and relieving pressure on the existing roadway network. The grid established by the new and enhanced streets generally follows existing property lines and establishes block sizes that foster urban-style redevelopment rather than suburban super-blocks. General Guidelines New streets should comply with the City of Aurora Urban Street Standards and should: Be dedicated public streets Meet ADA specifications The following recommendations will help to ensure high-quality streets in the Smith-Peoria study area. Sustainability Green street design principles, such as stormwater infiltration and permeable surface treatments, are encouraged for all street types. Street Design The design recommendations detailed on the following pages are informed by preliminary traffic analysis and are based on existing average daily trips (ADT) and projected ADT for the study area. Streets are designed to meet City standards and level-of-service needs. New and Enhanced Streets New and enhanced streets will: Ensure that the mobility of existing arterial streets is not degraded Minimize auto traffic impacts on existing neighborhoods Provide direct and convenient access to the future light rail and commuter rail station for all transportation modes Provide adequate right-of-way and traffic control devices for proposed bicycle routes as described in the City of Aurora s Bicycle Facility Design Guidelines New Pedestrian/Bike Underpass The proposed pedestrian and bike underpass will: Provide a safe and direct north-south station connection as an alternative to Peoria Street for transit riders commuting from the north on foot or by bike Provide direct access between the station and potential RTD park-nride lot in the City and County of Denver Enhanced Intersections Enhanced intersection treatments, including crosswalks, landscaping and curb extensions, are recommended at the following locations: Peoria Street and 30th Avenue Peoria Street and 33rd Avenue Proposed Traffic Signals New traffic signals may be warranted to improve safety and access at the following intersections: 33rd Avenue and Nome Street 30th Avenue and Nome Street Smith Road and Moline Street 24 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

32 A ST. B ST. LIMA ST. OAKLAND ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. E. 39TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Potential E. 37TH AVE. Possible Overpass/Underpass MOLINE ST. STATION AVE. E. 33RD AVE. BARANMOR PKWY. 1/2 Mile Radius INS LEGEND Light Rail Platform Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment RTD RTD Park-n-Ride New Street/Sidewalk New Pedestrian/Bike Underpass Enhanced Street/Sidewalk Enhanced Intersection New Traffic Signal Redevelopment Parcel Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Existing Building Existing Parcel E. 3OTH AVE. S A N D C R E E K QUARI ST. E. 31ST AVE. E. 3OTH AVE. FITZSIMONS PKWY. Figure 17. New and Enhanced Streets Diagram Circulation 25

33 Street Categories Street categories recommended in the Smith-Peoria study area accommodate the area s multi-modal circulation needs and meet City of Aurora Public Works level-of-service requirements. The recommended street categories are designed and located to support proposed new land uses. The Street Categories Diagram identifies all new and enhanced streets in the Smith-Peoria study area and categorizes them as follows: Signature Streets Neighborhood Streets Neighborhood Park Streets Truck Emphasis Street Detailed cross-sections illustrating the proposed street designs are located on the following pages. Signature Streets The signature streets: Establish the station area as a distinctive and memorable place Provide direct and convenient station access for all modes of transportation from adjacent neighborhood streets and major vehicle corridors Accommodate moderate vehicletraffic volumes while maintaining safety and function for all transportation modes Ensure essential drive-by visibility for ground-floor retail and commercial uses on 13th Avenue and Station Street Signature streets may include design elements such as: Special paving Benches, bicycle racks, and other street furniture Ornamental street lights Special landscaping The signature streets described on pages of this document are: 30th Avenue Nome Street 33rd Avenue Neighborhood Streets The majority of new streets in the 13th Avenue station area are Neighborhood Streets. These neighborhood streets generally accommodate low traffic volumes, provide on-street parking to complement the adjacent residential land uses and have sidewalk widths that support walking as a primary means of station area transportation. These streets can be places for informal public interaction and environmental enhancement. A detailed description and cross-section of a Neighborhood Street is provided on page 32 of this document. Neighborhood Park Streets Where neighborhood streets are adjacent to proposed public spaces special conditions apply. In these locations, neighborhood park streets are proposed. On these streets, parking is not recommended adjacent to the public space in order to: Provide sight lines from adjacent land uses to the public spaces Perceptually expand the public spaces to the surrounding buildings and link the streets to the public space A detailed description and cross-section of a Neighborhood Park Street is provided on page 32 of this document. Truck Emphasis Street To facilitate truck mobility in the station area without compromising the intimate character of Nome Street, a Truck Emphasis Street is proposed on Moline Street between Smith Road and 33rd Avenue. A detailed description and cross-section of Moline Street is provided on page 33 of this document. 26 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

34 A ST. B ST. LIMA ST. OAKLAND ST. C ST. D ST. E ST. E. 39TH AVE. 1/4 Mile Radius Potential E. 37TH AVE. Possible Overpass/Underpass MOLINE ST. STATION AVE. E. 33RD AVE. BARANMOR PKWY. 1/2 Mile Radius INS LEGEND Light Rail Platform Commuter Rail Platform Light Rail Alignment Commuter Rail Alignment RTD RTD Park-n-Ride Neighborhood Signature Street Neighborhood Street Neighborhood Park Street Truck Emphasis Street Redevelopment Parcel Planned Public Space Existing Public Space Existing Building Existing Parcel E. 3OTH AVE. S A N D C R E E K QUARI ST. E. 31ST AVE. E. 3OTH AVE. FITZSIMONS PKWY. Figure 18. Street Categories Diagram Circulation 27

35 Signature Streets: Nome Street (South of 33rd Avenue) At build-out, Nome Street will serve as the primary north-south connection through the station area. In response to the various land uses proposed along Nome Street, there are three street cross-sections proposed between 30th Avenue and Smith Road, as shown on the diagram to the right. SMITH RD Proposed Nome Retail Street. STATION AVE. The existing portion of Nome Street, located between 33rd and 30th avenues, should be improved as a park block street that supports automobile, bicycle and pedestrian circulation. The cross-section below illustrates the proposed improvements. At a minimum, Nome Street should include the following elements: One 14-ft. sidewalk with pedestrian through zones, curbs, and curb-side landscaped areas (east side of Nome Street) 7-ft. curb-side parallel parking lane (east side of Nome Street) Two 11-ft. travel lanes 7-ft. curb-side landscape zone (west side of Nome Street) 10-ft. protected bike path 5-ft. landscape buffer between bike and pedestrian zones 8-ft. sidewalk Proposed Nome Commercial/Office Street 33RD AVE. Proposed Nome Park Block Street Figure 19. Proposed Nome Street Types Parking is prohibited where adjacent to public spaces. Proposed Nome Street > Proposed B Street N Figure 20. Proposed Nome Park Block Street Cross-Section (South of 33rd Avenue) 28 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

36 Signature Streets: Nome Street Extension (33rd Avenue to Smith Road) The extension of Nome Street from 33rd Avenue to Smith Road will serve as a link in the Smith Road/Nome Street/30th Avenue roadway system and will provide continuous multi-modal circulation through the station area. There are two proposed street crosssections for the Nome Street extension between 33rd Avenue and Smith Road: Retail Street where adjacent to ground-floor retail uses between Smith Road and Station Avenue Commercial/Office Street where adjacent to ground-floor commercial or office uses between Station Avenue and 33rd Avenue Retail Street The proximity of Nome Street to the Smith-Peoria Station creates an opportunity for transit-supportive retail uses between Smith Road and Station Avenue. To support these retail uses, the following minimum elements are proposed within the 68 ft. right-of-way: Two 16-ft. sidewalks, including a 1.5-ft. building edge zone, 7-ft. furnishing zone, 6-ft. throughway and a 1.5-ft frontage zone Two 7-ft. curb-side parallel parking lanes Two 11-ft. travel lanes Commercial/Office Street A protected bike path is proposed on Nome Street where adjacent to ground-floor commercial or office uses. The following minimum elements are proposed within the 73-ft. right-of-way (described east to west): One 14-ft. sidewalk with pedestrian through zone, curb, and curb-side landscaped area One 7-ft. curb-side parallel parking lane Two 11-ft. travel lanes 7-ft. curb-side landscape zone 10-ft. protected bike path 5-ft. landscape buffer between bike and pedestrian zones 8-ft. sidewalk Retail Office Comm. Retail > Figure 21. Proposed Nome Retail Street Cross Section Office Comm. Figure 22. Proposed Nome Commercial/Office Street Cross-Section N > N Circulation 29

37 Signature Streets: 33rd Avenue 33rd Avenue will serve as an east-west connection between Peoria and Moline streets. It will support bus, truck, auto, bicycle and pedestrian circulation. To accommodate these modes of transportation, sidewalks have been widened and on-street parking lanes have been exchanged for on-street bike lanes. The 33rd Avenue cross-section to the right illustrate a view looking east from Peoria Street. The existing 35-ft. curb-to-curb dimension has been maintained. The proposed 67-ft. cross-section can be accommodated by expansion of the existing right-of-way or the creation of an easement. Design elements of the proposed 33rd Avenue Signature Street include: Two 16-ft. sidewalks, including a 1.5-ft. building edge zone, 7-ft. furnishing zone, 6-ft. throughway and a 1.5-ft frontage zone Two 7-ft. on-street bicycle lanes Two 10-ft 6-in. travel lanes 30 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

38 N> Figure 23. Existing 33rd Avenue Cross-Section N> Figure 24. Proposed 33rd Avenue Cross-Section Circulation 31

39 Truck Emphasis Street: Moline Street Moline Street will serve as a northsouth truck and bicycle connection between Smith Road and 33rd Avenue. To accommodate these modes, on-street parking lanes has been exchanged for on-street bike lanes and lane widths have been widened. The proposed 64-ft. cross-section can be accommodated by expansion of the existing right-of-way or the creation of an easement. Design elements include: Two 14-ft. sidewalks with pedestrian through zones, curbs, and curb-side landscaped areas Two 7-ft. on-street bicycle lanes Two 11-ft. travel lanes N> Figure 25. Existing Moline Street Cross-Section Edge Uses Vary Figure 26. Proposed Moline Street Cross-Section 32 Smith-Peoria Station Area Plan DRAFT

40 Neighborhood Streets The proposed neighborhood street cross-section includes a 62-ft. right-ofway, measured from building edge to building edge. Design elements include: Two 14-ft. sidewalks with pedestrian through zones, curbs, and curb-side landscaped areas Two 7-ft. curb-side parallel parking lanes Two 10-ft. travel lanes Figure 27. Proposed Neighborhood Street Cross-Section Neighborhood Park Streets Edge Uses Vary The proposed neighborhood park street cross-section includes a 55-ft. right-ofway, measured from building edge to back-of-sidewalk on the park side of the street. Design elements include: Two 14-ft. sidewalks with pedestrian through zones, curbs, and curb-side landscaped areas One 7-ft. curb-side parallel parking lane on the building side of the street Two 10-ft. travel lanes Note: The edge condition on the opposite side of the street from the public space varies (i.e. building, public space, parking lot) Figure 28. Proposed Neighborhood Park Street Cross-Section Circulation 33