HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-06 ApplicationApril 14, 2006
Mr. Charles E. Maddox, Jr.
Patton Harris Rust Associates
117 E. Piccadilly St., Ste. 200
Winchester, VA 22601
RE: REZONING #02 -06, SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY
Dear Chuck:
COUN f,&; DERICK
Department of Plann�i g nt
a j 651
FAX: 540/665-6395
This letter serves to confirm action taken by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors at their
meeting of April 12, 2006. The above referenced application was approved to rezone 1.2 acres from
RP (Residential Performance) District to HE (Higher Education) District with proffers. The subject
properties are located on the east side of Tulane Drive (route 797) and west side of Price Drive,
approximately 650' north of Millwood Pike (Route 50), and are identified with Property Identification
Numbers 64 -A -109 and a portion of 64 -A -1 10, in the Shawnee Magisterial District.
The proffer that was approved as a part of this rezoning application is unique to this property and is
binding regardless of ownership. Enclosed is a copy of the adopted proffer statement for your
records.
Please do not hesitate to contact this office if you have any questions regarding the approval of this
rezoning application.
Sincerely,
Michael T. Ruddy
Deputy Planning Director
MTR/bad
Attachment
cc: Gene Fisher, Shawnee Magisterial District Supervisor
June Wilmot, Shawnee Magisterial District Commissioner
Robert A. Morris, Shawnee Magisterial District Commissioner
Jane Anderson, Real Estate
Shenandoah University, Business Office, 1460 University Dr., Winchester, VA 22601
107 North Kent Street, Suite 202 Winchester, Virginia 22601 -5000
Planning Commission:
Board of Supervisors:
REZONING APPLICATION #02 -06
SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY
Staff Report for the Board of Supervisors
Prepared: April 5, 2006
Staff Contact: Michael T. Ruddy. Deputy Planning Director
This report is prepared by the Frederick County Planning Staff to provide information to the
Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors to assist them in making a decision on this
application. It may also be useful to others interested in this zoning matter. Unresolved issues
concerning this application are noted by staff where relevant throughout this staff report.
Reviewed
March 15, 2006
April 12, 2006
Action
Recommended Approval
Pending
PROPOSAL: To rezone 1.2 acres from RP (Residential Performance) District to HE (Higher
Education) District with proffers.
LOCATION: The properties are located on the east side of Tulane Drive (Route 797) and west side of
Price Drive, approximately 650' north of Millwood Pike (Route 50).
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Shawnee
PROPERTY ID NUMBERS: 64 -A -109 and a portion of 64-A-110
PROPERTY ZONING: RP (Residential Performance) District, HE (1- ligher Education) District, and
B2 (Business General) District
PRESENT USE: University Stadium and Residential
ADJOINING PROPERTY ZONING PRESENT USE:
North: RP (Residential Performance)
South: RP (Residential Performance)
East: RP (Residential Performance)
West: B2 (Business General)
PROPOSED USES: University Facilities
Use:
Use:
Use:
Use:
Residential
Residential
Residential
Hotel University Facilities
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
April 5, 2006
Page 2
REVIEW EVALUATIONS:
Virginia Dept. of Transportation: The documentation within the application to rezone this property
appears to have little significant impact on Route 797. This route is the VDOT roadway which has been
considered as the access to the property referenced. It is recommended the applicant proffer that all
access to this property be through Tulane Drive. No access will be allowed along the frontage of Price
Drive. Before development, this office will require a complete set of construction plans detailing
entrance designs, drainage features, and traffic flow data from the I.T.E Trip Generation Manual,
Seventh Edition for review. VDOT reserves the right to comment on all right -of -way needs, including
right -of -way dedications, and off -site roadway improvements and drainage. Any work performed on
the State's right -of -way must be covered under a land use permit. This permit is issued by this office
and requires an inspection fee and surety bond coverage.
Fire Marshal: Water supplies for firefighting shall meet the requirements of Frederick County Code
Section 90 -4. Plan approval recommended.
Millwood Station: No comments.
Department of inspections: No comment required at this time.
Public Works Department: We have no comment at this time.
Frederick Winchester Service Authority: No comment.
Sanitation Authority: No comment.
Frederick- Winchester Health Department: The Health Department has no objection to the request as
stated so long as no private drainfields or private /public wells are negatively impacted.
Department of Parks Recreation: No comment.
Frederick County Public Schools: Based on the information provided that states no residential units
will be part of the rezoning, there will be no impact to the school population upon build -out.
Winchester Regional Airport: This property appears to be just on the outside edge of the Airport
Support Area and the traffic pattern of the Winchester Airport. Due to the close proximity of this
property to the flight pattern at Winchester Regional Airport, building occupants are likely to
experience aircraft noise and fly -over nuisance from aircraft entering into or departing the flight pattern.
As the airport continues to expand services and operations, noise associated with such expansion will
likely increase. Property owners may be aware of the airport's existence, but should be forewarned
about this potential problem. We advise the owner to take measures for noise attenuation during
construction of their classroom facilities. This would help reduce any noise distraction during classes.
Winchester Regional Airport if a vital line in the National Air Transportation System used by private
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
April 5, 2006
Page 3
citizens, commercial air carriers, businesses and industries throughout the region to transport people and
goods around the world. During the last eighteen months, there has been a dramatic increase in jet
transient traffic at Winchester. In addition, we now have a medevac helicopter conducting operations
throughout the day and night. The Winchester Regional Airport has a direct and principal economic
impact on our community and is continually working towards expanding operations. To be successful
in our ventures, we need citizen support, which causes us concern regarding the potential for complaints
about aircraft noise.
Frederick County Attorney: Please see attached letter dated June 28, 2005 from Robert T. Mitchell,
Jr., Esquire.
Historic Resources Advisory Board: Upon review of the proposed rezoning, it appears that the
proposal does not significantly impact historic resources and it is not necessary to schedule a formal
review of the rezoning application by the HRAB. According to the Rural Landmark Survey, there are
no significant historic structures located on the properties nor are there any possible historic districts in
the vicinity. It was also noted that the National Park Service Study of Civil War Sites in the
Shenandoah Valley does not identify any core battlefields that his proposed rezoning would directly
impact. The properties are within the study area of the First and Second Battles of Winchester;
however, this area has already lost its integrity.
Planning Zoning:
1) Site History
The original Frederick County zoning map (U.S.G.S. Winchester Quadrangle) identifies the
subject parcels as being zoned R -2 (Residential Limited). Site of the original farmhouse on the
Lages land, the acreage that is now the College Park Subdivision, the property has been zoned
RP (Residential Performance) since the consolidation of the existing R2 zoning classification
with the RI, R3, and R6 zoning districts to create the RP (Residential General) District on
September 28, 1983. The original College Park Subdivision was created around the parcels for
which this current rezoning is being requested in 1970. The Pembridge Heights Subdivision
further developed this area, including the residential lots located along Price Drive. At the time
of the development of this section of Pembridge Heights, Shenandoah University further
secured the use of Price Drive as an access to the College by enabling the conversion of an
existing 60' right of-way that benefited the University, to a right -of -way dedicated to the State.
existing Price Drive. The dedication ()Phis right- of-waty provided access to the residential lots
and clearly to Shenandoah University. Correspondence from this era indicates that notification
to that end was placed on the deed of dedication and therefore to subsequent homeowners
regarding the potential future use of Price Drive as an access to Shenandoah University.
The remaining portion of parcel 64 -A -110 that is not subject to this rezoning request which was
acquired by Shenandoah University, contains both B2 (Business General) and HE (Higher
Education) District zoned land, and has developed according to Master Development Plan
MDP #01 -91 which was revised in August of 1999 to enable a football stadium and fieldhouse
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
April 5, 2006
Page 4
facility on the east side of Interstate 81. Parcel 64 -A -109, totaling 0.6 acres, and the 0.6 acre
portion of Parcel 64 -A -110 are subject to this 1.2 acre rezoning request from RP (Residential
Performance) District to HE (Higher Education) District.
2) Comprehensive Police Plan
The Frederick County Comprehensive Policy Plan is an official public document that serves as
the community's guide for making decisions regarding development, preservation, public
facilities and other key components of community life. The primary goal of this plan is to
protect and improve the living environment within Frederick County. It is in essence a
composition of policies used to plan for the future physical development of Frederick County.
[Comprehensive Policy Plan. p. 1 -11
Land Use
The subject properties included with this rezoning request are located within the boundaries of
the Route 50 East Corridor Land Use Plan. The properties are located wholly within the Urban
Development Area (U DA) and Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA). The Route 50 East
Corridor Land Use Plan recognizes the existing land uses of the parcels in this area and does not
identify any desired future land use. However, the Eastern Frederick County Long Range Land
Use Plan Map recognizes the institutional land uses associated with Shenandoah University in
the vicinity of the properties. Such a land use designation could be applied to the subject parcels
with the appropriate recognition of the character of the adjoining residential subdivision. The
intent of the HE (Higher Education) District is to permit institutions of higher education in
appropriate areas.
Transportalion
The Comprehensive Plan does not presently identify any new road improvement projects in the
immediate vicinity of this rezoning request. The street serving the existing and developing
university facilities, Tulane Drive, was recently upgraded in accord with VDOT specifications
to accommodate the development proposed with the Shenandoah University Master
Development Plan. The intersection of Tulane Drive, Route 797. and Route 50 is of a standard
that can accommodate the traffic anticipated from the currently master planned Shenandoah
University project, the College Park Subdivision, and the properties included with this rezoning
request. Price Drive the existing residential subdivision street on which the properties have
frontage, is of residential character and additional traffic of a non- residential nature should be
discouraged. Shenandoah's previous efforts to secure Price Drive as an access are recognized.
3) Site Suitabilitv/Environment
The site does not contain any environmental or historical features. More specifically, there are
no identified areas of steep slopes floodplain, or wetlands that should be addressed through this
rezoning application or would constrain the development of the properties under the HE (Higher
Education) zoning district classification. Parcel 64 -A -110 does contain a stormwater
management facility that was created in conjunction with the Tulane Drive Road improvement
project.
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
April 5, 2006
Page 5
4) Potential Impacts
A. Transportation
In a letter dated May 2, 2005. the Virginia Department of Transportation recommended that the
applicant proffer that all access to this property be through Tulane Drive. They further stated
that no access will be allowed along the frontage of Price Drive. Staff would concur based upon
the rationale that Tulane Drive was recently improved to a standard that would accommodate
the anticipated traffic from the developing areas of Shenandoah University. Price Drive is a
residential street that serves the existing residential uses, the character of which should be
preserved with this rezoning application. The applicant should be prepared to address this issue
and the Proffer Statement provides the applicant the opportunity to do so.
No additional measurable transportation impacts are anticipated from the development of this
1.2 acre site on Tulane Drive, Route 797, and the intersection of Tulane Drive and Route 50.
Staff would concur with the application's statement that the requested rezoning will expand the
area available for the development of planned facilities and ancillary uses, but will not result in
a discernable increase in traffic above what has already been planned and approved. It should be
ensured that the access for any traffic generated by the development of this acreage is via Tulane
Drive.
13. Sewer and Water
Public water and sewer service is provided to the site by the City of Winchester. Wastewater
generated by the development of this site will be conveyed to the Opequon Waste Water
Treatment Facility. The ongoing development of University facilities has ensured that sufficient
water and sewer infrastructure has been provided to accommodate any additional development
that may occur on this site.
C. Community Facilities and Impacts
The Frederick County Development Impact Model has not been applied to 1-113 (Higher
Education) District rezoning requests in recognition of the unique impacts and benefits that
institutions of higher education provide to the community.
The impacts of the development of facilities within the HE (Higher Education) District on the
surrounding community should be carefully evaluated. In particular, when the land for which
the rezoning request is being sought is part ofa residential community and the surrounding land
uses are residential. In recognition of the need to ensure that areas of HE (Higher Education)
District are appropriately integrated with the surrounding community, the HE (Higher
Education) District section of the Zoning Ordinance enables the Planning Commission to
require distance buffers and landscaping and /or full screening on lots which abut residential
land uses. The size of the buffers and nature of the screening shall be based upon the amount of
separation and screening needed.
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
April 5, 2006
Page 6
Staff has previously encouraged the applicant to be proactive with regards to any landscaping
and screening that could be applied to this property to ensure that the long terns use of the
property is appropriately integrated with the adjacent residential uses. It would be preferable for
the applicant to propose an approach to addressing this issue which ensures that whatever the
ultimate use of the acreage, the surrounding properties are not negatively impacted. It is
important to remember that buildings, signs, and structures within the HE (Higher Education)
District may be erected up to 45 feet in height, structures may be located up to 35 feet from any
street, and parking areas may be located within five feet of any property line. With the approval
of the Master Development Plan for the Football Stadium and Fieldhouse, the University
provided a landscape buffer that was twenty feet in width and consisted of a double row of
evergreen trees adjacent to the residential properties. The properties that are subject to this
rezoning request provide a gateway to the University grounds. The opportunity exists for the
applicant to address this issue in a manner that is aesthetically pleasing, both as a gateway to the
University Stadium complex and to the adjacent neighbors and ensures that any future impacts
from the development of this acreage are mitigated. Staff continues to encourage the applicant
to propose an approach that could be incorporated into the proffer statement in some form.
5) Proffer Statement Dated April 26, 2005 and revised February 15, 2006
The Proffer Statement contains one proffer that seeks to address the site development as it
relates to transportation access. This proffer states that site access shall be limited to Tulane
Drive, the internal campus road network, and the two existing entrance points on Price Drive.
This proposed proffer does not appear to limit site access in any fashion and would enable the
development of the subject properties to occur with primary access being via Price Drive.
A more desirable approach may be to limit access to the 1.2 acre site to the University's internal
street system via the extension of the recently improved Tulane Drive, thus minimizing any
potential impacts to Price Drive and the existing residential land uses. Accommodations in the
Proffer Statement may be appropriate to enable the existing residential structure to continue to
utilize Price Drive. However, any new development and /or redevelopment of the site under the
HE (Higher Education) designation should utilize an internal access point on Tulane Drive
extended.
STAFF CONCLUSIONS FOR 03/15/06 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING:
The Shenandoah University rezoning application is generally consistent with the goals ofthe Frederick
County Comprehensive Plan. Elements ofthe rezoning application have been identified that should be
carefully evaluated to ensure that they fully address specific components of the Comprehensive Plan
and the intent of the HE (Higher Education) District. The Planning Commission should ensure that the
impacts associated with this rezoning request have been fully addressed by the applicant. Particular
attention should be paid to ensuring that the potential development of the HE (Higher Education) land
uses are appropriately integrated with the surrounding residential community.
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
April 5, 2006
Page 7
Confirmation of the issues identified in the staff report, and any issues raised by the Planning
Commission, should be addressed prior to the decision of the Planning Commission.
PLANNING COMMISSION SUMMARY ACTION OF THE 03 /15/06 MEETING:
Commission members discussed the protection of the adjoining residential area and their desire for any
potential use of the property to appropriately blend in with the residential neighborhood.
Commissioners encouraged the applicant to close or restrict the access to Price Drive and to have all the
traffic from future users of this site to use Tulane Drive. They were also concerned that some uses
permitted with HE Zoning would not be appropriate, such as a multi -story dormitory.
The applicants expressed their opinion that the size of the property limited the intensity of its use and
since the use had not yet been determined, they wanted to maintain as much flexibility as possible.
They assured the Commission of Shenandoah University's intent to be a good neighbor, to provide
additional screening if necessary, and to utilize the site with a compatible use.
Two adjoining property owners on Price Drive spoke to the Commission about the type of use that
might go on the property and how it would affect their property values. One of the property owners
complained of a vacant lot on Price Drive that was an eyesore because it contained mounds of dirt; he
also thought the existing structure should be investigated for potential historical significance because it
may have been used during the Civil War. The other property owner was opposed to allowing access of
this site to Price Drive; in addition, he said the landscape screening along his property line promised by
Shenandoah University for a previous project was not completed.
It was noted that the use of this property would come back to the Planning Commission in the form of a
master development plan revision. It was also noted that ordinance requirements call for landscaping
between residential and HE uses, with specific amounts and type at the discretion of the Commission.
Commissioners unanimously recommended approval of the rezoning with the proffer submitted
by the applicant and with a caveat that expressed the Commission's desire to sec access to Price
Drive restricted.
(Commissioner Ours and Light abstained from voting; Commissioners Unger and Watt were absent
from the meeting.)
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REZONING APPLICATION FORM
FREDERICK COUNTY, VIRGINIA
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The following information shall be provided by the applicant:
All parcel identification numbers, deed book and page numbers may be obtained from the Office of
the Commissioner of Revenue, Real Estate Division, 107 North Kent Street, Winchester.
1. Applicant:
Name: Patton Harris Rust Associates (PHR +A) Telephone: 540- 667 -2139
Address:
Location Map
Plat
Deed of property
Verification of taxes paid
117 E. Piccadilly Street, Suite 200
Winchester, Virginia 22601
2. Property Owner (if different than above)
Name: Shenandoah University
c/o Business Office
Address: 1460 University Drive
Winchester, Virginia 22601
Telephone: 540- 665 -4514
3. Contact person if other than above
Name: Charles E. Maddox, Jr., Telephone: 540- 667 -2139
4. Checklist: Check the following items that have been included with this application.
Agency Comments
Fees
Impact Analysis Statement
Proffer Statement
FEB 1 7 2006
1
Shenandoah University
6. A) Current Use of the Property:
B) Proposed Use of the Property:
7. Adjoining Property: See Attached
PARCEL ID NUMBER
254 -1 -2
64 -A -107
64- A -107A
64 -A -109
64A- 8 -3 -35
64A-12-3-111C
64A-12-3-111D
64A -12 -3 -210
64A -12 -3 -211
USE
University
Commercial Hotel
Commercial Hotel
Residential
Residential
Residential
Residential
Residential
Residential
RP
RP
RP
RP
RP
5. The Code of Virginia allows us to request full disclosure of ownership in relation to
rezoning applications.
Please list below all owners or parties in interest of the land to be rezoned:
University Stadium (HE), Residence (RP)
University Facilities (Academic /Cultural)
8. Location: The property is located at (give exact location based on nearest road and distance
from nearest intersection, using road names and route numbers).
The properties are located on the east and west sides of Tulane Drive (Route
797), approximately 650 feet north of Millwood Pike (US Route 50).
ZONING
HE1 (City of Winchester)
B2
B2
RP
2
12. Signature:
I (we), the undersigned, do hereby respectfully make application and petition the Frederick County
Board of Supervisors to amend the zoning ordinance and to change the zoning map of Frederick
County, Virginia. 1 (we) authorize Frederick County officials to enter the property for site
inspection purposes.
I (we) understand that the sign issued when this application is submitted must be placed at the front
property line at least seven days prior to the Planning Commission public hearing and the Board of
Supervisors' public hearing and maintained so as to be visible from the road right -of -way until the
hearing.
I (we) hereby certify that this application and its accompanying materials are true and accurate to
the best of my (our) knowledge.
Applicant(s)
Charl-: Maddox, Jr., P.E.,
Owner(s)
U �3 OLw c-nn
Shenandoah University
Date 02/17/06
Date 02/17/06
4
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Name
Address
64 -A -110
Shenandoah University Gene Fisher
1460 University Drive, Winchester, VA 22601
64 -A -111 C
Virginia A Bresnanan
101 Harvard Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64- A -111D
Ida M Price
102 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -204
Michael L Cynthia S Clarke
104 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -210
Robert C Jacqueline Gochenour, Jr.
111 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -211
Ona Carlton Margaret F Hovatter
105 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A- 8 -3 -35
Ruth T Sherwood
103 Princeton Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -205
Christopher Sandra P Miller
106 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -206
Harry F Joyce M Evans III
P.O. Box 1682, Winchester, VA 22604
64A -12 -3 -207
Eric D A Holly B McMurtry
110 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -208
William R Marie C Withers
112 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
64A -12 -3 -209
John L Pamela T Haines
114 Price Drive, Winchester, VA 22602
Adjoining Property Owners
Rezoning
Owners of property adjoining the land will be notified of the Plamung Commission and the Board
of Supervisors meetings. For the purpose of this application, adjoining property is any property
abutting the requested property on the side or rear or any property directly across a public
right -of -way, a private right -of -way, or a watercourse from the requested property. The
applicant is required to obtain the following information on each adjoining property including the
parcel identification number which may be obtained from the office of the Commissioner of
Revenue. The Commissioner of the Revenue is located on the 2n floor of the Frederick County
Administrative Building, 107 North Kent Street.
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CURRENTLY ZONED RP
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EXHIBIT SHOWING
TWO PROPERTIES'
CURRENTLY STANDING
IN THE. NAME, OF
SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY
SHAWNEE MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT
FREDERICK COUNTY, NRGNIA
SCALE: 1" =4-0' DATE: AUGUST 12, 2005
ONTG EERY
Sgbtccriisg Qroup, Inc.
654 PRsperity Dr. (540) 4503236
Winchester, VA 22602
catrme6.com (540) 450 -3235 FAX
SHEET 1 OF 1
Planning Commission:
Board of Supervisors:
REZONING APPLICATION #02 -06
SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY
Staff Report for the Planning Commission
Prepared: March 1,2006
Staff Contact: Michael T. Ruddy, Deputy Planning Director
This report is prepared by the Frederick County Planning Staff to provide information to the
Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors to assist them in making a decision on this
application. It may also be useful to others interested in this zoning matter. Unresolved issues
concerning this application are noted by staff where relevant throughout this staff report.
Reviewed Action
March 15, 2006 Pending ,e,_
April 12, 2006 Pending
PROPOSAL: To rezone 1.2 acres from RP (Residential Performance) District to HE (Higher
Education) District with proffers.
LOCATION: The properties are located on the east side of Tulane Drive (Route 797) and west side of
Price Drive, approximately 650' north of Millwood Pike (Route 50).
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Shawnee
PROPERTY ID NUMBERS: 64 -A -109 and a portion of 64 -A -1 10
PROPERTY ZONING: RP (Residential Performance) District, HE (Higher Education) District, and
B2 (Business General) District
PRESENT USE: University Stadium and Residential
ADJOINING PROPERTY ZONING PRESENT USE:
North: RP (Residential Performance)
South: RP (Residential Performance)
East: RP (Residential Performance)
West: B2 (Business General)
PROPOSED USES: University Facilities
Use:
Use:
Use:
Use:
Residential
Residential
Residential
Hotel University Facilities
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
March 1, 2006
Page 2
REVIEW EVALUATIONS:
Virginia Dept. of Transportation: The documentation within the application to rezone this property
appears to have little significant impact on Route 797. This route is the VDOT roadway which has been
considered as the access to the property referenced. It is recommended the applicant proffer that all
access to this property be through Tulane Drive. No access will be allowed along the frontage of Price
Drive. Before development, this office will require a complete set of construction plans detailing
entrance designs, drainage features, and traffic flow data from the I.T.E Trip Generation Manual
Seventh Edition for review. VDOT reserves the right to comment on all right -of -way needs, including
right -of -way dedications, and off -site roadway improvements and drainage. Any work performed on
the State's right -of -way must be covered under a land use permit. This permit is issued by this office
and requires an inspection fee and surety bond coverage.
Fire Marshal: Water supplies for firefighting shall meet the requirements of Frederick County Code
Section 90 -4. Plan approval recommended.
Millwood Station: No comments.
Department of Inspections: No comment required at this time.
Public Works Department: We have no comment at this time.
Frederick Winchester Service Authority: No comment.
Sanitation Authority: No comment.
Frederick Winchester Health Department: The Health Department has no objection to the request as
stated so long as no private drainfields or private /public wells are negatively impacted.
Department of Parks Recreation: No comment.
Frederick County Public Schools: Based on the information provided that states no residential units
will be part of the rezoning, there will be no impact to the school population upon build -out.
Winchester Regional Airport: This property appears to be just on the outside edge of the Airport
Support Area and the traffic pattern of the Winchester Airport. Due to the close proximity of this
property to the flight pattern at Winchester Regional Airport, building occupants are likely to
experience aircraft noise and fly -over nuisance from aircraft entering into or departing the flight pattern.
As the airport continues to expand services and operations, noise associated with such expansion will
likely increase. Property owners may be aware of the airport's existence, but should be forewarned
about this potential problem. We advise the owner to take measures for noise attenuation during
construction of their classroom facilities. This would help reduce any noise distraction during classes.
Winchester Regional Airport if a vital line in the National Air Transportation System used by private
Rezoning #02 -06 Shenandoah University
March 1, 2006
Page 3
citizens, commercial air carriers; businesses and industries throughout the region to transport people and
goods around the world. During the last eighteen months. there has been a dramatic increase in jet
transient traffic at Winchester. In addition, we now have a medevac helicopter conducting operations
throughout the day and night. The Winchester Regional Airport has a direct and principal economic
impact on our community and is continually working towards expanding operations. To be successful
in our ventures, we need citizen support, which causes us concern regarding the potential for complaints
about aircraft noise.
Frederick County Attorney: Please see airached leper dated !June 28, 2005, from Robert T. Michell,
Jr., Esquire.
Historic Resources Advisory Board: Upon review of the proposed rezoning, it appears that the
proposal does not significantly impact historic resources and it is not necessary to schedule a formal
review of the rezoning application by the HRAB. According to the Rural Landmark Survey, there are
no significant historic structures located on the properties nor are there any possible historic districts in
the vicinity. It was also noted that the National Park Service Study of Civil War Sites in the
Shenandoah Valley does not identify any core battlefields that his proposed rezoning would directly
impact. The properties are within the study area of the First and Second Battles of Winchester;
however, this area has already lost its integrity.
Planning Zoning:
1) Site History
The original Frederick County zoning map (U.S.G.S. Winchester Quadrangle) identifies the
subject parcels as being zoned R -2 (Residential Limited). Site of the original farmhouse on the
Lages land, the acreage that is now the College Park Subdivision, the property has been zoned
RP (Residential Performance) since the consolidation of the existing R2 zoning classification
with the RI, R3, and R6 zoning districts to create the RP (Residential General) District on
September 28, 1983. The original College Park Subdivision was created around the parcels for
which this current rezoning is being requested in 1970. The Pembridge Heights Subdivision
further developed this area, including the residential lots located along Price Drive.
The remaining portion of parcel 64-A-110 that is not subject to this rezoning request which was
acquired by Shenandoah University, contains both B2 (Business General) and I -IE (Higher
Education) District zoned land, and has developed according to Master Development Plan
MDP #01 -91 which was revised in August of 1999 to enable a football stadium and fieldhouse
facility on the east side of Interstate 81. Parcel 64 -A -109, totaling 0.6 acres, and the 0.6 acre
portion of Parcel 64-A-110 are subject to this 1.2 acre rezoning request from RP (Residential
Performance) District to HE (Higher Education) District.
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March 1, 2006
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2) Comprehensive Policy Plan
The Frederick County Comprehensive Policy Plan is an official public document that serves as
the community's guide for making decisions regarding development, preservation, public
facilities and other key components of community life. The primary goal of this plan is to
protect and improve the living environment within Frederick County. It is in essence a
composition of policies used to plan for the future physical development of Frederick County.
[Comprehensive Policy Plan, p.
Land Use
The subject properties included with this rezoning request are located within the boundaries of
the Route 50 East Corridor Land Use Plan. The properties are located wholly within the Urban
Development Area (UDA) and Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA). The Route 50 East
Corridor Land Use Plan recognizes the existing land uses of the parcels in this area and does not
identify any desired future land use. However, the Eastern Frederick County Long Range Land
Use Plan Map recognizes the institutional land uses associated with Shenandoah University in
the vicinity of the properties. Such a land use designation could be applied to the subject parcels
with the appropriate recognition of the character of the adjoining residential subdivision. The
intent of the 1 -1E (Higher Education) District is to permit institutions of higher education in
appropriate areas.
Transportation
The Comprehensive Plan does not presently identify any new road improvement projects in the
immediate vicinity of this rezoning request. The street serving the existing and developing
university facilities, Tulane Drive, was recently upgraded in accord with VDOT specifications
to accommodate the development proposed with the Shenandoah University Master
Development Plan. The intersection of Tulane Drive, Route 797, and Route 50 is ofa standard
that can accommodate the traffic anticipated from the currently master planned Shenandoah
University project, the College Park Subdivision, and the properties included with this rezoning
request. Price Drive, the existing residential subdivision street on which the properties have
frontage, is of residential character and additional traffic ofa non residential nature should be
discouraged.
3) Site Suitability /Environment
The site does not contain any environmental or historical features. More specifically, there are
no identified areas of steep slopes, Iloodplain, or wetlands that should be addressed through this
rezoning application or would constrain the development of the properties under the HE (Higher
Education) zoning district classification. Parcel 64 -A -110 does contain a stormwater
management facility that was created in conjunction with the Tulane Drive Road improvement
project.
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March 1, 2006
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4) Potential Impacts
A. Transportation
No additional measurable transportation impacts are anticipated from the development of this
1.2 acre site on Tulane Drive, Route 797, and the intersection of Tulane Drive and Route 50.
Staff would concur with the application's statement that the requested rezoning will expand the
area available for the development of planned facilities and ancillary uses, but will not result in
a discernable increase in traffic above what has already been planned and approved. It should be
ensured that the access for any traffic generated by the development of this acreage is via Tulane
Drive.
In a letter dated May 2, 2005, the Virginia Department of Transportation recommended that the
applicant proffer that all access to this property be through Tulane Drive. They further stated
that no access will be allowed along the frontage of Price Drive. Staff would concur based upon
the rationale that Tulane Drive was recently improved to a standard that would accommodate
the anticipated traffic from the developing areas of Shenandoah University. Price Drive is a
residential street that serves the existing residential uses, the character of which should be
preserved with this rezoning application. The applicant should be prepared to address this issue
and the Proffer Statement provides the applicant the opportunity to do so.
B. Sewer and Water
Public water and sewer service is provided to the site by the City of Winchester. Wastewater
generated by the development of this site will be conveyed to the Opequon Waste water
Treatment Facility. The ongoing development of University facilities has ensured that sufficient
water and sewer infrastructure has been provided to accommodate any additional development
that may occur on this site.
C. Community Facilities and Impacts
The Frederick County Development Impact Model has not been applied to HE (Higher
Education) District rezoning requests in recognition of the unique impacts and benefits that
institutions of higher education provide to the community.
The impacts of the development of facilities within the HE (Higher Education) District on the
surrounding community should be carefully evaluated. In particular, when the land for which
the rezoning request is being sought is part of a residential community and the surrounding land
uses are residential. In recognition of the need to ensure that areas of HE (Higher Education)
District are appropriately integrated with the surrounding community, the HE (Higher
Education) District section of the Zoning Ordinance enables the Planning Commission to
require distance buffers and landscaping and /or full screening on lots which abut residential
land uses. The size of the buffers and nature of the screening shall be based upon the amount of
separation and screening needed.
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March 1, 2006
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Staff has previously encouraged the applicant to be proactive with regards to any landscaping
and screening that could be applied to this property to ensure that the long term use of the
property is appropriately integrated with the adjacent residential uses. It would be preferable for
the applicant to propose an approach to addressing this issue which ensures that whatever the
ultimate use of the acreage, the surrounding properties are not negatively impacted. It is
important to remember that buildings, signs, and structures within the HE (Higher Education)
District may be erected up to 45 feet in height, structures may be located up to 35 feet from any
street, and parking areas may be located within live feet of any property line. With the approval
of the Master Development Plan for the Football Stadium and Fieldhouse, the University
provided a landscape buffer that was twenty feet in width and consisted of a double row of
evergreen trees adjacent to the residential properties. The properties that are subject to this
rezoning request provide a gateway to the University grounds. The opportunity exists for the
applicant to address this issue in a manner that is aesthetically pleasing, both as a gateway to the
University Stadium complex and to the adjacent neighbors and ensures that any future impacts
from the development of this acreage are mitigated. Staff continues to encourage the applicant
to propose an approach that could be incorporated into the proffer statement in some form.
5) Proffer Statement— Dated April 26, 2005 and revised February 15, 2006
The Proffer Statement contains one proffer that seeks to address the site development as it
relates to transportation access. This proffer states that site access shall be limited to Tulane
Drive, the internal campus road network, and the two existing entrance points on Price Drive.
This proposed proffer does not appear to limit site access in any fashion and would enable the
development of the subject properties to occur with primary access being via Price Drive.
A more desirable approach may be to limit access to the 1.2 acre site to the University's internal
street system via the extension of the recently improved Tulane Drive, thus minimizing any
potential impacts to Price Drive and the existing residential land uses. Accommodations in the
Proffer Statement may be appropriate to enable the existing residential structure to continue to
utilize Price Drive. However, any new development and /or redevelopment of the site under the
HE (Higher Education) designation should utilize an internal access point on Tulane Drive
extended.
STAFF CONCLUSIONS FOR 03 /15/06 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING:
The Shenandoah University rezoning application is generally consistent with the goals of the Frederick
County Comprehensive Plan. Elements ofthe rezoning application have been identified that should be
carefully evaluated to ensure that they fully address specific components of the Comprehensive Plan
and the intent ofthe HE (Higher Education) District. The Planning Commission should ensure that the
impacts associated with this rezoning request have been fully addressed by the applicant. Particular
attention should be paid to ensuring that the potential development ofthe HE (Higher Education) land
uses are appropriately integrated with the surrounding residential community.
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Confirmation of the issues identified in the staff report, and any issues raised by the Planning
Commission, should be addressed prior to the decision of the Planning Commission.
Following the requirement for a public hearing, a recommendation
by the Planning Commission to the Board of Supervisors concerning this rezoning
application would be appropriate. The applicant should be prepared to adequately
address all concerns raised by the Planning Commission.