PZ - ACHD Staff Report
1 Compass Charter School
Development Services Department
Project/File: Compass Charter School/ MER18-0062/ H-208-0046-AZ
This is a comprehensive plan amendment, and an annexation and rezone application
to allow for the development of a charter school.
Lead Agency: City of Meridian
Site address: Black Cat Road north of Franklin Road
Staff Approval: June 15, 2018
Applicant: Paul Bierlein
Bouma, USA
445 Pettis, STE 201
Ada, MI 49301
Representative: Same as Above
Staff Contact: Mindy Wallace, AICP
Phone: 387-6178
E-mail: mwallace@achdidaho.org
A. Findings of Fact
Description of Application: The applicant is requesting approval of a comprehensive plan future
land use map amendment to change the land use designation of 25 acres from Medium-High Density
Residential to Mixed Use Employment and for annexation and rezoning of 21 acres of Rural Urban
Transitional to Mixed Use Employment to allow for the development of a K-12 charter school.
1. Description of Adjacent Surrounding Area:
Direction Land Use Zoning
North Rural urban transitional RUT
South Rural urban transitional RUT
East Rural urban transitional RUT
West Rural urban transitional RUT
2. Transit: Transit services are not available to serve this site.
3. New Center Lane Miles: The proposed development includes 0.12 centerline miles of new
public road.
4. Impact Fees: There will be an impact fee that is assessed and due prior to issuance of any
building permits. The assessed impact fee will be based on the impact fee ordinance that is in
effect at that time.
5. Capital Improvements Plan (CIP)/ Integrated Five Year Work Plan (IFYWP):
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• Black Cat Road is listed in the CIP to be widened to 5-lanes from Franklin Road to Cherry
Lane between 2021 and 2025.
B. Traffic Findings for Consideration
1. Trip Generation: This development is estimated to generate 433 vehicle trips per day in the AM
peak hour; and 67 vehicle trips per hour in the PM peak hour, and 1,500 vehicle trip per day,
based on the traffic impact study.
2. Traffic Impact Study
Thompson Engineers prepared a traffic impact study (TIS) for the proposed Compass Charter
School. The traffic impact study can be found as attachment 3. ACHD has reviewed the
submitted traffic impact study for consistency with ACHD policies and practices, and may have
additional requirements beyond what is noted in the summary. ACHD Staff comments on the
submitted traffic impact study can be found below under staff comments.
Staff Comments/Recommendations: Staff comments are provided by District Traffic Services
and Development Review staff.
The TIS notes that approximately 60% of the students will be bussed to the school with other
students arriving and departing via parent pick up. The bus and parent pick up loading areas are
separated and students can exit and enter vehicles from the passenger side in both locations.
Due to the nature of the school, children aren’t anticipated to walk to the school and walking to
school is discouraged in the TIS due to the lack of pedestrian facilities and bike lanes on Black
Cat Road in the vicinity of the site. Based on the information provided the in the TIS, the
installation of school zone signage and flashing beacons is not recommend at this time.
The TIS notes that turn lane warrants are not met for dedicated right or center left turn lane on
Black Cat Road at the new east/west collector roadway intersection. As such, turn lanes are not
required as part of this application.
The TIS notes that buses will need to enter and exit the site from Franklin Road and that in the
afternoon buses coming from the south and west would need to travel pas the driveway and make
a U-turn to access the site and recommends that the buses make U-turns in the Ten Mile
Christian Church parking lot located east of the site.
The Compass Charter School will need to direct bus drivers on how to access the site using the
right-in/right-driveway on Franklin Road without making U-turns on Franklin Road. Private
property should not be used by the buses to make U-turns.
The Compass Charter School shall be responsible for all costs associated with the design,
hardware, and construction of any pedestrian facilities needed to accommodate future pedestrian
needs of the school. This includes flashing beacons, crosswalk striping and signage, and HAWK
signals or RRFBs.
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3. Condition of Area Roadways
Traffic Count is based on Vehicles per hour (VPH)
* Acceptable level of service for a five-lane principal arterial is “E” (1,780 VPH).
* Acceptable level of service for a seven-lane principal arterial is “E” (2,720 VPH).
* Acceptable level of service for a two-lane minor arterial is “E” (575 VPH).
4. Average Daily Traffic Count (VDT)
Average daily traffic counts are based on ACHD’s most current traffic counts.
• The average daily traffic count for Franklin Road west of Umbria Hills was 10,891 on
12/13/17.
• The average daily traffic count for Black Cat Road north of Franklin Road was 5,753 on
12/6/17.
C. Findings for Consideration
1. Franklin Road
a. Existing Conditions: Franklin Road is improved with 5-travel lanes, vertical curb, gutter, and
sidewalk abutting the site. There is 135-feet of right-of-way for Franklin Road (46-feet from
centerline).
b. Policy:
Arterial Roadway Policy: District Policy 7205.2.1 states that the developer is responsible for
improving all street frontages adjacent to the site regardless of whether or not access is taken
to all of the adjacent streets.
Master Street Map and Typology Policy: District Policy 7205.5 states that the design of
improvements for arterials shall be in accordance with District standards, including the Master
Street Map and Livable Streets Design Guide. The developer or engineer should contact the
District before starting any design.
Street Section and Right-of-Way Width Policy: District Policies 7205.2.1 & 7205.5.2 state
that the standard 5-lane street section shall be 72-feet (back-of-curb to back-of-curb) within
96-feet of right-of-way. This width typically accommodates two travel lanes in each direction, a
continuous center left-turn lane, and bike lanes on a minor arterial and a safety shoulder on a
principal arterial.
Right-of-Way Dedication: District Policy 7205.2 states that The District will provide
compensation for additional right-of-way dedicated beyond the existing right-of-way along
arterials listed as impact fee eligible in the adopted Capital Improvements Plan using available
impact fee revenue in the Impact Fee Service Area.
No compensation will be provided for right-of-way on an arterial that is not listed as impact fee
eligible in the Capital Improvements Plan.
The District may acquire additional right-of-way beyond the site-related needs to preserve a
corridor for future capacity improvements, as provided in Section 7300.
Roadway Frontage Functional
Classification
PM Peak
Hour
Traffic Count
PM Peak
Hour Level
of Service
Franklin Road 105-feet Principal
Arterial 821 Better than
“E”
Black Cat Road 120-feet Minor Arterial 386 Better than
“E”
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Sidewalk Policy: District Policy 7205.5.7 requires a concrete sidewalk at least 5-feet wide to
be constructed on both sides of all arterial streets. A parkway strip at least 6-feet wide
between the back-of-curb and street edge of the sidewalk is required to provide increased
safety and protection of pedestrians. Consult the District’s planter width policy if trees are to
be placed within the parkway strip. Sidewalks constructed next to the back-of-curb shall be a
minimum of 7-feet wide.
Detached sidewalks are encouraged and should be parallel to the adjacent roadway.
Meandering sidewalks are discouraged.
A permanent right-of-way easement shall be provided if public sidewalks are placed outside of
the dedicated right-of-way. The easement shall encompass the entire area between the right-
of-way line and 2-feet behind the back edge of the sidewalk. Sidewalks shall either be located
wholly within the public right-of-way or wholly within an easement.
Minor Improvements Policy: District Policy 7203.3 states that minor improvements to
existing streets adjacent to a proposed development may be required. These improvements
are to correct deficiencies or replace deteriorated facilities. Included are sidewalk construction
or replacement; curb and gutter construction or replacement; replacement of unused
driveways with curb, gutter and sidewalk; installation or reconstruction of pedestrian ramps;
pavement repairs; signs; traffic control devices; and other similar items.
ACHD Master Street Map: ACHD Policy Section 3111.1 requires the Master Street Map
(MSM) guide the right-of-way acquisition, arterial street requirements, and specific roadway
features required through development. This segment of Franklin Road is designated in the
MSM as a Planned Commercial Arterial with 5-lanes and on-street bike lanes, a 72-foot street
section within 96-feet of right-of-way.
c. Applicant Proposal: The applicant hasn’t proposed any improvements to Franklin Road
abutting the site.
d. Staff Comments/Recommendations: Franklin Road is fully improved with 5-travel lanes,
vertical curb, gutter, and sidewalk abutting the site. Therefore, no additional right-of-way
dedication or street improvements should be required as part of this application.
Consistent with ACHD’s Minor Improvement policy, the applicant should be required to
replace any broken or deteriorated curb, gutter, or sidewalk on Franklin Road abutting the site.
2. Black Cat Road
a. Existing Conditions: Black Cat Road is improved with 2-travel lanes and no curb, gutter or
sidewalk abutting the site. There is 50-feet of right-of-way for Black Cat Road (25-feet from
centerline).
b. Policy:
Arterial Roadway Policy: District Policy 7205.2.1 states that the developer is responsible for
improving all street frontages adjacent to the site regardless of whether or not access is taken
to all of the adjacent streets.
Master Street Map and Typology Policy: District Policy 7205.5 states that the design of
improvements for arterials shall be in accordance with District standards, including the Master
Street Map and Livable Streets Design Guide. The developer or engineer should contact the
District before starting any design.
Street Section and Right-of-Way Width Policy: District Policies 7205.2.1 & 7205.5.2 state
that the standard 5-lane street section shall be 72-feet (back-of-curb to back-of-curb) within
96-feet of right-of-way. This width typically accommodates two travel lanes in each direction, a
continuous center left-turn lane, and bike lanes on a minor arterial and a safety shoulder on a
principal arterial.
5 Compass Charter School
Right-of-Way Dedication: District Policy 7205.2 states that The District will provide
compensation for additional right-of-way dedicated beyond the existing right-of-way along
arterials listed as impact fee eligible in the adopted Capital Improvements Plan using available
impact fee revenue in the Impact Fee Service Area.
No compensation will be provided for right-of-way on an arterial that is not listed as impact fee
eligible in the Capital Improvements Plan.
The District may acquire additional right-of-way beyond the site-related needs to preserve a
corridor for future capacity improvements, as provided in Section 7300.
Sidewalk Policy: District Policy 7205.5.7 requires a concrete sidewalk at least 5-feet wide to
be constructed on both sides of all arterial streets. A parkway strip at least 6-feet wide
between the back-of-curb and street edge of the sidewalk is required to provide increased
safety and protection of pedestrians. Consult the District’s planter width policy if trees are to
be placed within the parkway strip. Sidewalks constructed next to the back-of-curb shall be a
minimum of 7-feet wide.
Detached sidewalks are encouraged and should be parallel to the adjacent roadway.
Meandering sidewalks are discouraged.
A permanent right-of-way easement shall be provided if public sidewalks are placed outside of
the dedicated right-of-way. The easement shall encompass the entire area between the right-
of-way line and 2-feet behind the back edge of the sidewalk. Sidewalks shall either be located
wholly within the public right-of-way or wholly within an easement.
Frontage Improvements Policy: District Policy 7205.2.1 states that the developer shall
widen the pavement to a minimum of 17-feet from centerline plus a 3-foot wide gravel
shoulder adjacent to the entire site. Curb, gutter and additional pavement widening may be
required (See Section 7205.5.5).
ACHD Master Street Map: ACHD Policy Section 3111.1 requires the Master Street Map
(MSM) guide the right-of-way acquisition, arterial street requirements, and specific roadway
features required through development. This segment of Black Cat Road is designated in the
MSM as a Residential Arterial with 5-lanes and on-street bike lanes, a 72-foot street section
within 98-feet of right-of-way.
c. Applicant Proposal: The applicant has proposed to dedicate right-of-way to total 48-feet
from the center line of Black Cat Road abutting the site and to construct a 5-foot wide
detached concrete sidewalk located 40-feet from the centerline of Black Cat Road abutting the
site.
d. Staff Comments/Recommendations: The applicant’s proposal to dedicate right-of-way to
total 48-feet from the centerline of Black Cat Road and to construct a 5-foot wide detached
concrete sidewalk should be approved, as proposed. The sidewalk should be located a
minimum of 41-feet from the centerline of Black Cat Road abutting the site.
Consistent with ACHD’s Frontage Improvement policy, the applicant should be required to
widen the pavement on Black Cat Road to a minimum width of 17-feet from centerline plus a
3-foot wide gravel shoulder adjacent to the entire site.
3. East/West Collector
a. Existing Conditions: There are no collector roadways abutting or internal to the site.
b. Policy:
Collector Street Policy: District policy 7206.2.1 states that the developer is responsible for
improving all collector frontages adjacent to the site or internal to the development as required
below, regardless of whether access is taken to all of the adjacent streets.
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Master Street Map and Typologies Policy: District policy 7206.5 states that if the collector
street is designated with a typology on the Master Street Map, that typology shall be
considered for the required street improvements. If there is no typology listed in the Master
Street Map, then standard street sections shall serve as the default.
Street Section and Right-of-Way Policy: District policy 7206.5.2 states that the standard
right-of-way width for collector streets shall typically be 50 to 70-feet, depending on the
location and width of the sidewalk and the location and use of the roadway. The right-of-way
width may be reduced, with District approval, if the sidewalk is located within an easement; in
which case the District will require a minimum right-of-way width that extends 2-feet behind
the back-of-curb on each side.
The standard street section shall be 46-feet (back-of-curb to back-of-curb). This width typically
accommodates a single travel lane in each direction, a continuous center left-turn lane, and
bike lanes.
Sidewalk Policy: District policy 7206.5.6 requires a concrete sidewalks at least 5-feet wide to
be constructed on both sides of all collector streets. A parkway strip at least 6-feet wide
between the back-of-curb and street edge of the sidewalk is required to provide increased
safety and protection of pedestrians. Consult the District’s planter width policy if trees are to
be placed within the parkway strip. Sidewalks constructed next to the back-of-curb shall be a
minimum of 7-feet wide.
Detached sidewalks are encouraged and should be parallel to the adjacent roadway.
Meandering sidewalks are discouraged.
A permanent right-of-way easement shall be provided if public sidewalks are placed outside of
the dedicated right-of-way. The easement shall encompass the entire area between the right-
of-way line and 2-feet behind the back edge of the sidewalk. Sidewalks shall either be located
wholly within the public right-of-way or wholly within an easement.
Half Street Policy: District Policy 7206.2.2 required improvements shall consist of pavement
widening to one-half the required width, including curb, gutter and concrete sidewalk
(minimum 5-feet), plus 12-feet of additional pavement widening beyond the centerline
established for the street to provide an adequate roadway surface, with the pavement
crowned at the ultimate centerline. A 3-foot wide gravel shoulder and a borrow ditch sized to
accommodate the roadway storm runoff shall be constructed on the unimproved side.
ACHD Master Street Map: ACHD Policy Section 3111.1 requires the Master Street Map
(MSM) guide the right-of-way acquisition, collector street requirements, and specific roadway
features required through development. A new collector roadway was identified on the MSM
with the street typology of Town Center Collector. The new collector roadway should intersect
Black Cat Road at the half mile between Franklin Road and Pine Avenue. The Town Center
Collector typology as depicted in the Livable Street Design Guide recommends a 2-lane
roadway with bike lanes, a 36-foot street section within 54-feet of right-of-way.
7 Compass Charter School
c. Applicant Proposal: The applicant has proposed to construct the new east/west collector
onto Black Cat Road located at the site’s north property line approximatley1,100-feet north of
Franklin Road. The applicant has proposed to construct the new collector with 3 travel lanes
transitioning to 2 travel lanes with curb, gutter, and a 7-foot wide attached concrete sidewalk
on the south side of the roadway and a gravel shoulder and barrow ditch on the north side of
the roadway. The applicant has proposed to construct curb and gutter on a small portion of
the north side of the roadway where they own both sides of the road. The applicant has
proposed to terminate the new collector in an offset temporary turnaround at the site’s east
property line.
d. Staff Comments/Recommendations: The proposed location of the new east/west collector
is consistent with the MSM and should be approved, as proposed.
The applicant’s proposal is generally consistent with District policy and should be approved,
as proposed. The 3 lane section of the collector should be constructed as ½ of a 46-foot
collector street section with 23-feet of pavement, plus 12 additional feet of pavement (to total
35-feet of pavement) with vertical curb, gutter, and a 7-foot wide attached concrete sidewalk
on the south side of the roadway, with a 3-foot wide gravel shoulder and borrow ditch sized to
accommodate the roadway storm runoff shall be constructed on the north side of the roadway.
The right-of-way should extend from the 2-feet behind the back of the sidewalk to encompass
the borrow ditch.
As the roadway continues east and transitions to a 2 lane roadway, it should be constructed
as ½ of a 36-foot wide collector roadway with 18-feet of pavement, plus 12 additional feet of
pavement (to total 30-feet of pavement) with vertical curb, gutter, and a 7-foot wide attached
concrete sidewalk on the south side of the roadway, with a 3-foot wide gravel shoulder and
borrow ditch sized to accommodate the roadway storm runoff shall be constructed on the
north side of the roadway. The right-of-way should extend from the 2-feet behind the back of
the sidewalk to encompass the borrow ditch.
New Town
Center Collector
8 Compass Charter School
Where the applicant controls both sides of the roadway, the east/west collector should be
constructed as a complete 36-foot street section with vertical curb, and gutter on both sides of
the roadway, with a 7-foot wide attached sidewalk on the south side of the road. The sidewalk
will be constructed on the north side of the roadway when the school moves forward with the
second phase of their project.
See Finding for Consideration 4 below for comments on the temporary turnaround.
4. Stub Streets
a. Existing Conditions: There are no stub streets to or from the site.
b. Policy:
Stub Street Policy: District policy 7206.2.4 states that stub streets will be required to provide
circulation or to provide access to adjoining properties. Stub streets will conform with the
requirements described in Section 7206.2.5.4, except a temporary cul-de-sac will not be
required if the stub street has a length no greater than 150-feet. A sign shall be installed at
the terminus of the stub street stating that, “THIS IS A DESIGNATED COLLECTOR
ROADWAY. THIS STREET WILL BE EXTENDED AND WIDENDED IN THE FUTURE.”
In addition, stub streets must meet the following conditions:
• A stub street shall be designed to slope towards the nearest street intersection within the
proposed development and drain surface water towards that intersection; unless an
alternative storm drain system is approved by the District.
• The District may require appropriate covenants guaranteeing that the stub street will
remain free of obstructions.
Temporary Dead End Streets Policy: District policy 7206.2.4 requires that the design and
construction for cul-de-sac streets shall apply to temporary dead end streets. The temporary
cul-de-sac shall be paved and shall be the dimensional requirements of a standard cul-de-sac.
The developer shall grant a temporary turnaround easement to the District for those portions
of the cul-de-sac which extend beyond the dedicated street right-of-way. In the instance
where a temporary easement extends onto a buildable lot, the entire lot shall be encumbered
by the easement and identified on the plat as a non-buildable lot until the street is extended.
c. Applicant Proposal: The applicant has proposed to construct 1 stub street to the east, the
new east/west collector, located approximately 1,100-feet north of Franklin Road. The
applicant has proposed to terminate the stub street in an offset temporary turnaround.
d. Staff Comments/Recommendations: The applicant’s proposal meets District policy and
should be approved, as proposed. The right-of-way for the stub street should extend to the
east property line. The applicant should be required to install a sign at the terminus of the
stub street stating that, “THIS IS A DESIGNATED COLLECTOR ROADWAY. THIS STREET
WILL BE EXTENDED AND WIDENDED IN THE FUTURE.”
The temporary turnaround should be paved and constructed to meet the same dimensional
requirements of a standard cul-de-sac. The applicant should grant a temporary turnaround
easement to the District for those portions of the cul-de-sac which extend beyond the
dedicated street right-of-way. In the instance where a temporary easement extends onto a
buildable lot, the entire lot shall be encumbered by the easement and identified as a non-
buildable lot until the street is extended.
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5. Driveways
5.1 Franklin Road
a. Existing Conditions: There is one driveway onto Franklin Road from the site.
b. Policy
Access Points Policy: District Policy 7205.4.1 states that all access points associated with
development applications shall be determined in accordance with the policies in this section
and Section 7202. Access points shall be reviewed only for a development application that is
being considered by the lead land use agency. Approved access points may be relocated
and/or restricted in the future if the land use intensifies, changes, or the property redevelops.
Access Policy: District policy 7205.4.7 states that direct access to principal arterials is
typically prohibited. If a property has frontage on more than one street, access shall be taken
from the street having the lesser functional classification. If it is necessary to take access to
the higher classified street due to a lack of frontage, the minimum allowable spacing shall be
based on Table 1b under District policy 7205.4.7, unless a waiver for the access point has
been approved by the District Commission. Driveways, when approved on a principal arterial
shall operate as a right-in/right-out only, and the District will require the construction of a
raised median to restrict the left turning movements.
Driveway Location Policy: District policy 7205.4.7 requires driveways located on principal
arterial roadways to be located a minimum of 355-feet from the nearest intersection for a right-
in/right-out only driveway. Full-access driveways are not allowed on principal arterial
roadways.
Successive Driveways: District policy 7205.4.7 Table 1b, requires driveways located on
principal arterial roadways with a speed limit of 50 MPH to align or offset a minimum of 520-
feet from any existing or proposed driveway.
Driveway Width Policy: District policy 7205.4.8 restricts high-volume driveways (100 VTD or
more) to a maximum width of 36-feet and low-volume driveways (less than 100 VTD) to a
maximum width of 30-feet. Curb return type driveways with 30-foot radii will be required for
high-volume driveways with 100 VTD or more. Curb return type driveways with 15-foot radii
will be required for low-volume driveways with less than 100 VTD.
Driveway Paving Policy: Graveled driveways abutting public streets create maintenance
problems due to gravel being tracked onto the roadway. In accordance with District policy,
7205.4.8, the applicant should be required to pave the driveway its full width and at least 30-
feet into the site beyond the edge of pavement of the roadway and install pavement tapers in
accordance with Table 2 under District Policy 7205.4.8.
Temporary Access Policy: District Policy 7202.4.2 identifies a temporary access as that
which “is permitted for use until appropriate alternative access becomes available”.
Temporary access may be granted through a development agreement or similar method, and
the developer shall be responsible for providing a financial guarantee for the future closure of
the driveway.
Cross Access Easements/Shared Access Policy: District Policy 7202.4.1 states that cross
access utilizes a single vehicular connection that serves two or more adjoining lots or parcels
so that the driver does not need to re-enter the public street system.
c. Applicant’s Proposal: The applicant has proposed to close the existing driveway onto
Franklin Road and to construct 1 new 25-foot wide right-in/right-out only driveway onto
Franklin Road located approximately 480-feet east of Black Cat. The driveway is proposed to
provide access to the bus loop and to the parent drop off/pick up loop.
d. Staff Comments/Recommendations: The applicant's proposal does not meet District
Access Management, Driveway Location, or Successive Driveway policies, as the site has
10 Compass Charter School
frontage on 2 lesser classified roadway, is located within the influence area of the Franklin
Road/Black Cat Road intersection, and the proposed driveway offsets an existing driveway to
the east by only 140-feet however, staff recommends a modification of policy to allow the
driveway to be located as proposed.
Staff’s recommendation is due to the fact that the driveway will be used to separate buses
from a majority of the parent drop off and pick-ups, the driveway is restricted to be right-
in/right-out only, the school will operate during off peak hours with K-5th grade in session from
9:00 am to 3:00 pm and 6th-12th grade in session from 7:40 am to 2:35 pm, and the applicant
has proposed to provide cross access between the site and adjacent parcel allowing for other
driveways onto Franklin Road to be closed in the future as the parcels develop.
The applicant should be required to construct the driveway as a curb return driveway with a
30-foot radii and to a maximum width of 36-feet. There is already a raised median on
Franklin Road to restrict driveways west of the site to right-in/right-out only. The applicant
should be required to extend the existing median 75-feet east beyond the driveway to restrict
the driveway to right-in/right-out only.
5.2 East/West Collector
a. Existing Conditions: There is no collector roadway within or adjacent to the site.
b. Policy:
Access Policy: District Policy 7205.4.1 states that all access points associated with
development applications shall be determined in accordance with the policies in this section
and Section 7202. Access points shall be reviewed only for a development application that is
being considered by the lead land use agency. Approved access points may be relocated
and/or restricted in the future if the land use intensifies, changes, or the property redevelops.
District Policy 7206.1 states that the primary function of a collector is to intercept traffic from
the local street system and carry that traffic to the nearest arterial. A secondary function is to
service adjacent property. Access will be limited or controlled. Collectors may also be
designated at bicycle and bus routes.
Driveway Location Policy (Stop Controlled Intersection): District policy 7206.4.4 requires
driveways located on collector roadways near a STOP controlled intersection to be located
outside of the area of influence; OR a minimum of 150-feet from the intersection, whichever is
greater. Dimensions shall be measured from the centerline of the intersection to the centerline
of the driveway.
Successive Driveways: District policy 7206.4.5 Table 1, requires driveways located on
collector roadways with a speed limit of 25 MPH and daily traffic volumes greater than 100
VTD to align or offset a minimum of 245-feet from any existing or proposed driveway.
Driveway Width Policy: District policy 7206.4.6 restricts high-volume driveways (100 VTD or
more) to a maximum width of 36-feet and low-volume driveways (less than 100 VTD) to a
maximum width of 30-feet. Curb return type driveways with 30-foot radii will be required for
high-volume driveways with 100 VTD or more. Curb return type driveways with 15-foot radii
will be required for low-volume driveways with less than 100 VTD.
Driveway Paving Policy: Graveled driveways abutting public streets create maintenance
problems due to gravel being tracked onto the roadway. In accordance with District policy,
7206.4.6, the applicant should be required to pave the driveway its full width and at least 30-
feet into the site beyond the edge of pavement of the roadway and install pavement tapers in
accordance with Table 2 under District Policy 7206.4.6.
c. Applicant’s Proposal: The applicant has proposed to construct four full access driveways
onto the east/west collector roadway. The driveways are proposed to be located as proposed:
11 Compass Charter School
• Driveway 1 is proposed to be 35-feet wide and located approximately 185-feet east of
Black Cat Road.
• Driveway 2 is proposed to be 32-feet wide and located approximately 265-feet east of
Black Cat Road.
• Driveway 3 is proposed to be 32-feet wide and located approximately 370-feet east of
Black Cat Road.
• Driveway 4 is proposed to be 45-feet wide and located approximately 650-feet east of
Black Cat Road.
d. Staff Comments/Recommendations: The applicant's proposed location for the 1st driveway
meets District policy and should be approved, as proposed.
The 2nd and 3rd driveways are proposed to offset by 105-feet and do not meet ACHD’s
Successive Driveway policy, which requires driveways on collector roadways to align or offset
by 245-feet. These two driveways are proposed to provide the primary access to the school
with the 2nd driveway proposed to be an enter/exit driveway and the 3rd driveway as exit only
for the parent drop off/pick up loop.
Staff recommends a modification of policy to allow the 2nd and 3rd driveways to be located as
proposed with the 2nd driveway signed as an “ENTER ONLY” driveway and 3rd driveway
signed as an “EXIT ONLY” driveway.
Staff has concerns with the safety and function of the 2nd driveway and the parking lot
circulation as parents use it to access the parent drop off/pick up loop for the school. The
driveway is proposed to provide access to a parking, not just the parent pick up loop. The
configuration of the parking lot drive aisles do not provide a direct route to the parent pick up
loop requiring parents to mix with parking traffic and to make to make decision on how to best
access the parent loop, with having to make tight turns with short throat lengths within the
parking lot. This may lead to stacking on the new east/west collector roadway, as parents and
those parking work to navigate the parking lot. Staff recommends that the applicant work with
the City of Meridian to reconfigure the parking lot and drive aisles into 1 driveway for the
parent drop off/pick up loop or to make access to the parent drop off/pick up loop easier to
access and less confusing.
The applicant's proposed location for the 4th driveway meets District policy and should be
approved, as proposed. This driveway will be restricted to a width of 36-feet.
All 4 of the driveways should be constructed as curb return type driveways and to a maximum
width of 36-feet.
6. Tree Planters
Tree Planter Policy: Tree Planter Policy: The District’s Tree Planter Policy prohibits all trees in
planters less than 8-feet in width without the installation of root barriers. Class II trees may be
allowed in planters with a minimum width of 8-feet, and Class I and Class III trees may be allowed
in planters with a minimum width of 10-feet.
7. Landscaping
Landscaping Policy: A license agreement is required for all landscaping proposed within ACHD
right-of-way or easement areas. Trees shall be located no closer than 10-feet from all public
storm drain facilities. Landscaping should be designed to eliminate site obstructions in the vision
triangle at intersections. District Policy 5104.3.1 requires a 40-foot vision triangle and a 3-foot
height restriction on all landscaping located at an uncontrolled intersection and a 50-foot offset
from stop signs. Landscape plans are required with the submittal of civil plans and must meet all
District requirements prior to signature of the final plat and/or approval of the civil plans.
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8. Other Access
Franklin Road and Black Cat Road are classified as arterial roadways. Other than the access
specifically approved with this application, direct lot access is prohibited to these roadways.
D. Site Specific Conditions of Approval
1. The Compass Charter School shall be responsible for all costs associated with the design,
hardware, and construction of any pedestrian facilities needed to accommodate future pedestrian
needs of the school. This includes flashing beacons, crosswalk striping and signage, and HAWK
signals or RRFBs.
2. Replace any broken or deteriorated curb, gutter, or sidewalk on Franklin Road abutting the site.
3. Dedicate right-of-way to total 48-feet from the center line of Black Cat Road abutting the site, as
proposed.
4. Construct a 5-foot wide detached concrete sidewalk on Black Cat Road located a minimum of 41-
feet from the centerline of Black Cat Road abutting the site.
5. Widen the pavement on Black Cat Road to a minimum width of 17-feet from centerline plus a 3-
foot wide gravel shoulder adjacent to the entire site.
6. Construct the new east/west collector onto Black Cat Road located at the site’s north property
line, as proposed.
7. Construct the 3 lane section of the collector as ½ of a 46-foot collector street section with 23-feet
of pavement, plus 12 additional feet of pavement (to total 35-feet of pavement) with vertical curb,
gutter, and a 7-foot wide attached concrete sidewalk on the south side of the roadway, with a 3-
foot wide gravel shoulder and borrow ditch sized to accommodate the roadway storm runoff shall
be constructed on the north side of the roadway. The right-of-way should extend from the 2-feet
behind the back of the sidewalk and encompass the borrow ditch.
8. As the collector roadway continues east and transitions to a 2 lane roadway, construct it as ½ of a
36-foot wide collector roadway with 18-feet of pavement, plus 12 additional feet of pavement (to
total 30-feet of pavement) with vertical curb, gutter, and a 7-foot wide attached concrete sidewalk
on the south side of the roadway, with a 3-foot wide gravel shoulder and borrow ditch sized to
accommodate the roadway storm runoff shall be constructed on the north side of the roadway.
The right-of-way should extend from the 2-feet behind the back of the sidewalk to encompass the
borrow ditch.
9. Construct the collector roadway as a complete 36-foot street section with vertical curb, and gutter
on both sides of the roadway, with a 7-foot wide attached sidewalk on the south side of the road
where the applicant controls both sides of the roadway.
10. Construct 1 stub street to the east, the new east/west collector1,100-feet north of Franklin Road.
Extend the right-of-way for the stub street to the east property line. Install a sign at the terminus of
the stub street stating that, “THIS IS A DESIGNATED COLLECTOR ROADWAY. THIS STREET
WILL BE EXTENDED AND WIDENDED IN THE FUTURE.”
11. Construct an offset temporary turnaround at the terminus of the stub street, as proposed. The
temporary turnaround shall be paved and constructed to meet the same dimensional
requirements of a standard cul-de-sac.
12. Grant a temporary turnaround easement to the District for those portions of the temporary cul-de-
sac which extend beyond the dedicated street right-of-way. In the instance where a temporary
easement extends onto a buildable lot, the entire lot shall be encumbered by the easement and
identified as a non-buildable lot until the street is extended.
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13. Close the existing driveway onto Franklin Road with vertical curb, gutter, and sidewalk to match
the improvements on either side.
14. Construct one right-in/right-out only driveway onto Franklin Road located approximately 480-feet
east of Black Cat, as proposed. Construct the driveway as a curb return driveway with a 30-foot
radii and to a maximum width of 36-feet.
15. Extend the existing median on Franklin Road 75-feet east beyond the driveway to restrict the
driveway to right-in/right-out only. Install a RIGHT OUT ONLY sign on site at the driveway exit
onto Franklin Road.
16. Construct four driveways onto the east/west collector roadway, located as proposed:
• Driveway 1 located 185-feet east of Black Cat Road.
• Driveway 2 located 265-feet east of Black Cat Road. Sign this driveway as “ENTER
ONLY”.
• Driveway 3 located 370-feet east of Black Cat Road. Sign this driveway as “EXIT ONLY”.
• Driveway 4 located 650-feet east of Black Cat Road.
17. All 4 of the driveways should be constructed as curb return type driveways and to a maximum
width of 36-feet.
18. Other than access specifically approved with this application, direct lot access to Franklin Road
and Black Cat Road is prohibited.
19. Payment of impact fees is due prior to issuance of a building permit.
20. Comply with all Standard Conditions of Approval.
E. Standard Conditions of Approval
1. All proposed irrigation facilities shall be located outside of the ACHD right-of-way (including all
easements). Any existing irrigation facilities shall be relocated outside of the ACHD right-of-way
(including all easements).
2. Private Utilities including sewer or water systems are prohibited from being located within the
ACHD right-of-way.
3. In accordance with District policy, 7203.3, the applicant may be required to update any existing
non-compliant pedestrian improvements abutting the site to meet current Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. The applicant’s engineer should provide documentation of
ADA compliance to District Development Review staff for review.
4. Replace any existing damaged curb, gutter and sidewalk and any that may be damaged during
the construction of the proposed development. Contact Construction Services at 387-6280 (with
file number) for details.
5. A license agreement and compliance with the District’s Tree Planter policy is required for all
landscaping proposed within ACHD right-of-way or easement areas.
6. All utility relocation costs associated with improving street frontages abutting the site shall be
borne by the developer.
7. It is the responsibility of the applicant to verify all existing utilities within the right-of-way. The
applicant at no cost to ACHD shall repair existing utilities damaged by the applicant. The
applicant shall be required to call DIGLINE (1-811-342-1585) at least two full business days prior
to breaking ground within ACHD right-of-way. The applicant shall contact ACHD Traffic
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Operations 387-6190 in the event any ACHD conduits (spare or filled) are compromised during
any phase of construction.
8. Utility street cuts in pavement less than five years old are not allowed unless approved in writing
by the District. Contact the District’s Utility Coordinator at 387-6258 (with file numbers) for details.
9. All design and construction shall be in accordance with the ACHD Policy Manual, ISPWC
Standards and approved supplements, Construction Services procedures and all applicable
ACHD Standards unless specifically waived herein. An engineer registered in the State of Idaho
shall prepare and certify all improvement plans.
10. Construction, use and property development shall be in conformance with all applicable
requirements of ACHD prior to District approval for occupancy.
11. No change in the terms and conditions of this approval shall be valid unless they are in writing
and signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized representative and an authorized
representative of ACHD. The burden shall be upon the applicant to obtain written confirmation of
any change from ACHD.
12. If the site plan or use should change in the future, ACHD Planning Review will review the site plan
and may require additional improvements to the transportation system at that time. Any change in
the planned use of the property which is the subject of this application, shall require the applicant
to comply with ACHD Policy and Standard Conditions of Approval in place at that time unless a
waiver/variance of the requirements or other legal relief is granted by the ACHD Commission.
F. Conclusions of Law
1. The proposed site plan is approved, if all of the Site Specific and Standard Conditions of Approval
are satisfied.
2. ACHD requirements are intended to assure that the proposed use/development will not place an
undue burden on the existing vehicular transportation system within the vicinity impacted by the
proposed development.
G. Attachments
1. Vicinity Map
2. Site Plan
3. Traffic Impact Study
4. Utility Coordinating Council
5. Development Process Checklist
6. Request for Reconsideration Guidelines
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VICINITY MAP
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SITE PLAN
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Traffic Impact Study
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Ada County Utility Coordinating Council
Developer/Local Improvement District
Right of Way Improvements Guideline Request
Purpose: To develop the necessary avenue for proper notification to utilities of local highway
and road improvements, to help the utilities in budgeting and to clarify the already existing process.
1) Notification: Within five (5) working days upon notification of required right of way
improvements by Highway entities, developers shall provide written notification to the affected
utility owners and the Ada County Utility Coordinating Council (UCC). Notification shall include
but not be limited to, project limits, scope of roadway improvements/project, anticipated
construction dates, and any portions critical to the right of way improvements and coordination
of utilities.
2) Plan Review: The developer shall provide the highway entities and all utility owners with
preliminary project plans and schedule a plan review conference. Depending on the scale of
utility improvements, a plan review conference may not be necessary, as determined by the
utility owners. Conference notification shall also be sent to the UCC. During the review meeting
the developer shall notify utilities of the status of right of way/easement acquisition necessary
for their project. At the plan review conference each company shall have the right to appeal,
adjust and/or negotiate with the developer on its own behalf. Each utility shall provide the
developer with a letter of review indicating the costs and time required for relocation of its
facilities. Said letter of review is to be provided within thirty calendar days after the date of the
plan review conference.
3) Revisions: The developer is responsible to provide utilities with any revisions to preliminary
plans. Utilities may request an updated plan review meeting if revisions are made in the
preliminary plans which affect the utility relocation requirements. Utilities shall have thirty days
after receiving the revisions to review and comment thereon.
4) Final Notification: The developer will provide highway entities, utility owners and the UCC with
final notification of its intent to proceed with right of way improvements and include the
anticipated date work will commence. This notification shall indicate that the work to be
performed shall be pursuant to final approved plans by the highway entity. The developer shall
schedule a preconstruction meeting prior to right of way improvements. Utility relocation activity
shall be completed within the times established during the preconstruction meeting, unless
otherwise agreed upon.
Notification to the Ada County UCC can be sent to: 50 S. Cole Rd. Boise 83707, or Visit
iducc.com for e-mail notification information.
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Development Process Checklist
Items Completed to Date:
Submit a development application to a City or to Ada County
The City or the County will transmit the development application to ACHD
The ACHD Planning Review Section will receive the development application to review
The Planning Review Section will do one of the following:
Send a “No Review” letter to the applicant stating that there are no site specific conditions of approval at
this time.
Write a Staff Level report analyzing the impacts of the development on the transportation system and
evaluating the proposal for its conformance to District Policy.
Write a Commission Level report analyzing the impacts of the development on the transportation system
and evaluating the proposal for its conformance to District Policy.
Items to be completed by Applicant:
For ALL development applications, including those receiving a “No Review” letter:
• The applicant should submit one set of engineered plans directly to ACHD for review by the Development
Review Section for plan review and assessment of impact fees. (Note: if there are no site improvements
required by ACHD, then architectural plans may be submitted for purposes of impact fee assessment.)
• The applicant is required to get a permit from Construction Services (ACHD) for ANY work in the right-of-
way, including, but not limited to, driveway approaches, street improvements and utility cuts.
Pay Impact Fees prior to issuance of building permit. Impact fees cannot be paid prior to plan review approval.
DID YOU REMEMBER:
Construction (Non-Subdivisions)
Driveway or Property Approach(s)
• Submit a “Driveway Approach Request” form to ACHD Construction (for approval by Development Services & Traffic
Services). There is a one week turnaround for this approval.
Working in the ACHD Right-of-Way
• Four business days prior to starting work have a bonded contractor submit a “Temporary Highway Use Permit
Application” to ACHD Construction – Permits along with:
a) Traffic Control Plan
b) An Erosion & Sediment Control Narrative & Plat, done by a Certified Plan Designer, if trench is >50’ or you
are placing >600 sf of concrete or asphalt.
Construction (Subdivisions)
Sediment & Erosion Submittal
• At least one week prior to setting up a Pre-Construction Meeting an Erosion & Sediment Control Narrative & Plan,
done by a Certified Plan Designer, must be turned into ACHD Construction to be reviewed and approved by the ACHD
Stormwater Section.
Idaho Power Company
• Vic Steelman at Idaho Power must have his IPCO approved set of subdivision utility plans prior to Pre-Con being
scheduled.
Final Approval from Development Services is required prior to scheduling a Pre-Con.
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Request for Appeal of Staff Decision
1. Appeal of Staff Decision: The Commission shall hear and decide appeals by an applicant of
the final decision made by the Development Services Manager when it is alleged that the
Development Services Manager did not properly apply this section 7101.6, did not consider all
of the relevant facts presented, made an error of fact or law, abused discretion or acted
arbitrarily and capriciously in the interpretation or enforcement of the ACHD Policy Manual.
a. Filing Fee: The Commission may, from time to time, set reasonable fees to be charged
the applicant for the processing of appeals, to cover administrative costs.
b. Initiation: An appeal is initiated by the filing of a written notice of appeal with the
Secretary and Clerk of the District, which must be filed within ten (10) working days from
the date of the decision that is the subject of the appeal. The notice of appeal shall refer
to the decision being appealed, identify the appellant by name, address and telephone
number and state the grounds for the appeal. The grounds shall include a written
summary of the provisions of the policy relevant to the appeal and/or the facts and law
relied upon and shall include a written argument in support of the appeal. The
Commission shall not consider a notice of appeal that does not comply with the
provisions of this subsection.
c. Time to Reply: The Development Services Manager shall have ten (10) working days
from the date of the filing of the notice of appeal to reply to the notice of the appeal, and
may during such time meet with the appellant to discuss the matter, and may also
consider and/or modify the decision that is being appealed. A copy of the reply and any
modifications to the decision being appealed will be provided to the appellant prior to the
Commission hearing on the appeal.
d. Notice of Hearing: Unless otherwise agreed to by the appellant, the hearing of the
appeal will be noticed and scheduled on the Commission agenda at a regular meeting to
be held within thirty (30) days following the delivery to the appellant of the Development
Services Manager’s reply to the notice of appeal. A copy of the decision being appealed,
the notice of appeal and the reply shall be delivered to the Commission at least one (1)
week prior to the hearing.
e. Action by Commission: Following the hearing, the Commission shall either affirm or
reverse, in whole or part, or otherwise modify, amend or supplement the decision being
appealed, as such action is adequately supported by the law and evidence presented at
the hearing.
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Request for Reconsideration of Commission Action
1. Request for Reconsideration of Commission Action: A Commissioner, a member of ACHD
staff or any other person objecting to any final action taken by the Commission may request
reconsideration of that action, provided the request is not for a reconsideration of an action
previously requested to be reconsidered, an action whose provisions have been partly and
materially carried out, or an action that has created a contractual relationship with third parties.
a. Only a Commission member who voted with the prevailing side can move for
reconsideration, but the motion may be seconded by any Commissioner and is voted on
by all Commissioners present.
If a motion to reconsider is made and seconded it is subject to a motion to postpone to a
certain time.
b. The request must be in writing and delivered to the Secretary of the Highway District no
later than 11:00 a.m. 2 days prior to the Commission’s next scheduled regular meeting
following the meeting at which the action to be reconsidered was taken. Upon receipt of
the request, the Secretary shall cause the same to be placed on the agenda for that next
scheduled regular Commission meeting.
c. The request for reconsideration must be supported by written documentation setting
forth new facts and information not presented at the earlier meeting, or a changed
situation that has developed since the taking of the earlier vote, or information
establishing an error of fact or law in the earlier action. The request may also be
supported by oral testimony at the meeting.
d. If a motion to reconsider passes, the effect is the original matter is in the exact position it
occupied the moment before it was voted on originally. It will normally be returned to
ACHD staff for further review. The Commission may set the date of the meeting at
which the matter is to be returned. The Commission shall only take action on the
original matter at a meeting where the agenda notice so provides.
e. At the meeting where the original matter is again on the agenda for Commission action,
interested persons and ACHD staff may present such written and oral testimony as the
President of the Commission determines to be appropriate, and the Commission may
take any action the majority of the Commission deems advisable.
f. If a motion to reconsider passes, the applicant may be charged a reasonable fee, to
cover administrative costs, as established by the Commission.