Hearings Official Decision - Laserfiche WebLink

identified along the Willamette River that would either retain the existing pathway or shift it further away from the riverbank, which would allow for a larger riparian area enhancement. Two additional pedestrian and bicycle bridge crossings are identified over the Millrace and the railroad tracks to better facilitate recreational, pedestrian-friendly redevelopment and accessibility of the site. The expanded riparian conservation areas along the riverbank, along with the concentration of development south of the railroad tracks, protects the natural vegetation along the river and enhances the area’s visual diversity. The applicant’s proposed Regulatory Plan (See Sheet L01), includes more stringent development regulations than are required by the Eugene Land Use Code to better facilitate open space and protection of view sheds. That Regulatory Plan also proposes maximum building coverage and height limits well below what is allowed in the S-RP zone for the area north of the railroad tracks, and limits the building heights south of the tracks to 85 feet where no height limit is otherwise imposed. These measures, along with the proposed 200-foot setback along the river, will significantly improve and preserve visual access both to and from the Willamette River. Several opponents assert that the Master Plan’s location of the recreational fields renders the Plan inconsistent with Environmental Design Element Policy E2, for many of the same reasons they argue the fields are incompatible under Policy D.2. However, as explained further above, the 200-foot setback between the river and any recreational fields will protect and retain the natural vegetation and natural water features “to the maximum extent practical.” The replacement and addition of recreational fields, as depicted on in the Master Plan, will not require the removal or disruption of any existing natural vegetation or natural water features. Moreover, as a use specifically allowed in the S-RP zone, their location is both contemplated and permissible. As stated above, at such time as the fields are proposed for development, design features proposed at that time will be reviewed for compliance with applicable development standards. For the reasons described above, and based on the elements of the requested Master Site Plan, the requested Master Plan satisfies the applicable Metro Plan policies. Riverfront Park Study The Riverfront Park Study is an adopted Metro Refinement Plan, specifically applicable to the S- RP zone, and includes the following applicable elements: A.Land Use Element 4. The following uses shall be permitted in the SD district for the Riverfront Park area: a) University programs and activities. b) Uses related to the activities, research, and programs of the University of Oregon, including light industrial, research and development, and office. c) A limited range of retail and non-retail uses permitted in the C-I, Neighborhood Commercial District (see Appendix B, Exhibit A). d) Other retail and non-retail uses that complement University activities. e) Multiple-family dwellings. Hearings Official Decision (CU 18-1; WG 18-2) 9