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City of Meridian | Department Report I. Project Overview
HEARING
DATE:
9/5/2024
TO: Planning & Zoning Commission
FROM: Linda Ritter, Associate Planner
208-884-5533
lritter@meridiancity.org
APPLICANT: Nicolette Womack, Kimley-Horn
SUBJECT: H-2024-0019
Centrepoint Apartments - ALT, CUP,
MDA
LOCATION: Project is located at 3030 N. Cajun Lane
and 3100 N. Centrepoint Way, near the
southwest corner of N. Eagle Road and
E. Ustick Road, in the NE 1/4 of the NE
1/4 of Section 5, Township 3N, Range
1E.
I. PROJECT OVERVIEW
A. Summary
Modifications to the existing Development Agreement (DA) H-2022-0035 and Conditional Use
Permit (CUP) H-2022-0072 to facilitate the construction of a 279-unit multifamily affordable
apartment project. This proposal strictly pertains to the residential component of the approved
development plan. The applicant is also requesting alternative compliance to the open space and
parking lot landscaping.
B. Issues/Waivers
The applicant is requesting alternative compliance for the following:
• Reduction in qualified open space as the applicant is deficient by 8,940 square feet.
• Removal of the parking lot islands under the covered parking internal to the parking lots.
The applicant is requesting the following modification to the Development Agreement and CUP:
• Modify the CUP to increase the building height to forty-five (45) feet instead of three (3)
stories.
• Increase the number of units from two hundred fifteen (215) to two hundred seventy-nine
(279), an increase of sixty-four (64) additional units.
C. Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of the proposed development.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT REPORT
City of Meridian | Department Report I. Project Overview
D. Decision
Select: Pending.
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
II. COMMUNITY METRICS
Table 1: Land Use
Description Details Map Ref.
Existing Land Use(s) Vacant -
Proposed Land Use(s) Multi-family -
Existing/Proposed Zoning C-G VII.A.2
Future Land Use Designation Mixed-Use Regional VII.A.3
Table 2: Process Facts
Description Details
Preapplication Meeting date Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Neighborhood Meeting 4/22/2024; 6 attendees
Site posting date 8/23/2024
Table 3: Community Metrics
Agency / Element Description / Issue Reference
Ada County Highway District III.H
• Comments Received Yes -
• Commission Action Required No -
• Access E. Ustick Road/ Centerpointe Way -
• Traffic Level of Service E. Ustick Road - Better than “E”/ Centrepointe Way – N/A -
ITD Comments Received (Yes/No, Staff Report or Other III.I
Meridian Fire Distance to Station:1.4 miles; Response Time: 3 minutes 0
Meridian Police Distance to Station: 5 miles; Response Time: 4:30 minutes
Meridian Public Works Wastewater Distance to Mainline: (Input Distance); Impacts or
Concerns: (yes/no)
III.B
Meridian Public Works Water Distance to Mainline: (Input Distance); Impacts or
Concerns: (yes/no)
III.B
School District(s) West Ada School District III.G
• Capacity of Schools River Valley Elementary - 600; Lewis and Clark Middle
School - 1,000; Centennial High School - 1,900
-
• Number of Students Enrolled River Valley Elementary - 457; Lewis and Clark Middle
School - 901; Centennial High School - 1,793
-
See City/Agency Comments and Conditions Section and public record for all department/agency
comments received.
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
Figure 1: One-Mile Radius Existing Condition Metrics
.
Figure 2: ACHD Summary Metrics
Click here, hit “Delete” or “Backspace”, then paste Excel data here. May either be “Copy as Picture”,
“As shown when printed”, or normal “Copy” and then “Paste” here with “Source formatting”.
Notes: See Error! Reference source not found.. Error! Reference source not found.. Existing Level of Service
E. Ustick Road
Existing Lanes 5 Planned Lanes 0
Programmed IFYP NA Programmed CIP NA ACHD ( Primary roadway impact )
Notable ACHD Comments ✓
City of Meridian | Department Report II. Community Metrics
Figure 3: Service Impact Summary
Ready
Marginal
Caution
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
III. STAFF ANALYSIS
Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code (UDC)
A. General Overview
The subject site is designated Mixed-Use Regional (MU-R) on the future land use map and is part
of a much larger area of MU-R along the Eagle Road corridor that includes The Village,
Regency at River Valley apartments, as well as multiple other commercial users and a large
undeveloped area. Specifically, within the MU-R area in this southwest corner of Eagle and
Ustick, there is the Jackson Square development and commercial buildings to the south and on
the hard corner to the northeast. The Comprehensive Plan discusses that projects should not
contemplate uses across arterials even if they share the same future land use designation as it is
not anticipated for users or residents to readily walk or bike across these transportation facilities.
However, Staff finds it prudent to analyze all projects in this area with at least the four corners of
development around the Ustick and Eagle intersection because, in reality, the transportation
impacts and expected users will come from and go beyond just the southwest corner of this
intersection.
To the north are a number of big box stores (Kohl’s, Dick’s, and Hobby Lobby) and the new
Brickyard vertically integrated development; to the north east is Lowe’s and various other
commercial and restaurant buildings; to the east is Trader Joe’s, multiple restaurants, and the
Verraso townhomes; and to the southeast are traditional garden style apartments, restaurant
users, and the Village. In terms of the ratio of commercial to residential within this area, there is
currently a healthy mix of commercial and residential uses within walking distance of each other.
Staff finds the addition of the proposed multi-family development limited to the number of units in
the existing development agreement near the existing and proposed commercial development
would offer residential to support the mix of commercial uses in this area. Therefore, Staff
believes the proposed project as currently approved through the existing CUP is generally
consistent with the MU-R designation because the subject MU-R area currently consists of a
number of retail, restaurant, office, and residential uses available to the region and the addition
of these units should not over saturate this area with residential.
Table 4: Project Overview
Description Details
History H-2018-0121 (Villasport CUP, MDA); H-2022-0035 (MDA, DA Inst.
#2022-079000); A-2023-0064 (CZC, DES)
Phasing Plan 1
Residential Units 279 Multi-family units
Open Space 2.60 acres (113,266 s.f.) required / 2.40 acres (104,345 s.f.) of qualified
open space proposed
Amenities A total of 8 amenities has been proposed - See amenity exhibit in Section
VII below.
Physical Features None
Acreage N/A
Lots 1
Density 27.9 units per acre
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
Figure 4: Mixed Use Analysis by Land Use Area
>> Mixed Use Analysis for Staff Report Charts <<
Designation Area: Mixed use Regional Date Retrieved: 2024 4 26
Non-residential
Residential
0.0%50.0%100.0%
Address Type Split
R-15
C-C
C-G
Land Use Area by Zoning
Districts
0.0%50.0%100.0%
Zoning Variety
0.0%50.0%100.0%
Address-Zoning Mix
Acres Annexed
100%
Mixed Use Area
119
303
Residential Addresses
119 303
216
All Addresses
Single-family
Multi -family
Address Use Types
Commercial
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
B. History and Process
The subject application encompasses one (1) parcel located south of E. Ustick Road. The parcel
was part of a Development Agreement Modification and Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
application in 2019 that removed the subject parcel from an existing Development Agreement
(DA) for the purpose of entering into a new DA with a new conceptual plan and building
elevations (H-2018-0121, DA Inst. # 2019-060877) and a request for a new athletic club and spa
(indoor recreation facility), Villasport. The CUP approval for the indoor recreation facility has
since expired and the property was sold. The current CUP and DA (H-2022-0035 DA Inst# 2022-
079000) was approved to construct a mixed-use development consisting of commercial space and
a 215-unit multi-family development in lieu of an athletic club/spa and commercial building. The
proposed CUP and DA modification proposes a deed restricted affordable multi-family
development with 279 units.
C. Site Development and Use Analysis
The submitted conceptual site plan (Exhibit VII.D) depicts five (5) multi-family buildings with
internal access. The multi-family is split into three (3) 4-story buildings on the larger area of the
site east of Centrepoint Way, one (1) 4-story building west of Centrepoint Way and one (1) 4-
story building on the east side of Cajun Lane. The submitted landscape plan shows a 25-foot
landscape buffer along the west and southern perimeter of the property.
According to the specific use standards for multi-family development (UDC 11-4-3-27), common
open space may not be counted towards the required minimum when it is adjacent to arterials
unless approved through the CUP process. Therefore, the proposed open space shown may not
all be qualified open space if Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council do not approve
it in its current location. This is concerning because if the Commission does not approve it, the
proposed site plan and open space will be further diminished from complying with the minimum
open space standards and revisions would likely be needed.
The previously approved CUP and MDA:
• Maximum of two hundred fifty-one (215) units
• Limited building height limited to three (3) stories
• Met the intent of the open space requirements
• Provided the following qualifying amenities: a clubhouse with a business lounge, plaza
areas, a swimming pool, a fitness facility, an outdoor kitchen, a dog run, a micro-path
system, sports courts, and a bicycle repair room. All of the proposed amenities except the
proposed dog run are located within the central open space area or part of the three (3)
central buildings.
The proposed amendment to the CUP and MDA:
• Two hundred seventy-nine (279) units
• Requesting four (4) stories and an increase in building height to 45 feet.
• Does not meet the open space requirement (deficient by 8,940 sf). The applicant is asking
for alternative compliance for qualified open space requirement stating the site is
irregular, has a unique targeted demographic of an affordable housing community, has
significant indoor and outdoor passive and active amenities and excellent connectivity to
public parks within walking distance. Although the project is located less than one-mile
from the Charles F. McDevitt Youth Sports Complex, Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park
and Champion Park; the residents would have to cross either Ustick Road, a residential
arterial or Eagle Road, a State highway to access them.
• Proposing the following qualifying amenities: a clubhouse with a fitness facility;
children’s play structure; dog park with a waste station; shaded picnic area with BBQ
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
grills, tables, benches and landscaping; shaded plaza/courtyard with activity lawn; a
micro-path system, sports courts and a bicycle repair area. The sports courts and dog
park are located near N. Cajun Lane.
Based on the analysis, staff feels the applicant is proposing too many units for development to be
compliant with the Comprehensive Plan and UDC requirements. Staff feels if the proposal loses
the parallel parking stalls along the north property line and relocate the open space away from
Ustick Road, an arterial, it would be a nice addition to the community.
1. Existing Structures/Site Improvements (UDC 11-1):
There are no existing structures on the site. The applicant will need to submit a Certificate of
Zoning Compliance (CZC) and Design Review (DES) application for review and approval
prior to building submittal.
2. Proposed Use Analysis (UDC 11-2):
Staff finds the proposed use of multi-family to be generally consistent with the MU-R
designation because the subject MU-R area currently consists of several retail, restaurant,
office, and residential uses available to the region and the addition of these units would not
over-saturate this area with residential. City Council approved the existing modification to
the current development agreement (MDA DA Inst. #2022-079000) in July 2022 (H-2022-
0035) with a reduction in units from what was originally submitted. The applicant is
proposing and additional sixty-four (64) units above the approved 215 units.
The main points of discussion through the MDA process were regarding traffic, parking, and
the proposed building heights. City Council required each “area” of the project to be self-
parked so that residents would not have to cross any drive aisle or Centrepoint Way to get to
their assigned parking space. Although buildings A, B1 and B2 within the proposed
development are not self-parked within their respective areas of the site, as shown in the
table below, the proposal meets the parking requirement as outlined in UDC 11-3C.
The applicant is requesting a modification to the existing DA to increase the number of units
and increase the building height from three (3) stories to forty-five (45) feet in height instead
of stories. Staff feels in order to maintain cohesiveness with the surrounding area, the
building height should remain as shown on the proposed concept plan below.
3. Dimensional Standards (UDC 11-2):
The proposed development is required to comply with the dimensional standards listed in
UDC Table 11-2B-3 for the C-G zoning district and those within the specific use standards
for Multi-family Development discussed above (UDC 11-4-3-27).
The submitted plans show compliance with all dimensional and specific use standards,
including but not limited to, building height, setbacks, accesses, and required parking spaces.
4. Specific Use Standards (UDC 11-4-3):
The applicant shall meet the requirements for Multi-Family (UDC 11-4-3-27). See
section V.
D. Design Standards Analysis
1. Existing structure and Site Design Standards (Comp Plan 3.07.01A, UDC 11-3A-19):
There are no existing structures on the site. The Comprehensive Plan require all new
development to create a site design compatible with surrounding uses through buffering,
screening, transitional densities, and other best site design practices. The proposed multi-
family residential development provides an appropriate transition between the
retail/commercial/employment uses to the north and west and the single-family residences to
the south and west. There will be a twenty-five (25) foot buffers between this project and the
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
surrounding developments to the west and south. The sidewalk improvements to Ustick Road,
Centrepoint Way and N. Cajun Lane provide much needed access improvements for the
single-family residences to walk to the retail and commercial developments in the vicinity to
the east. The buildings are set back over 100 feet from the boundaries with single family
residential property, providing an even greater buffer between the proposed multi-family use
and the single-family residences. UDC requires the applicant to submit a Certificate of
Zoning Compliance (CZC) and Design Review (DR) applications for review and approval
prior to building submittal.
2. Qualified Open Space & Amenities (Comp Plan 2.02.00, Comp Plan 2.02.01B, UDC 11-3G):
Per UDC 11-3G-3, qualified open space is defined as active or passive open spaces. Any
open space that is active or passive in its intended use, and accessible by all residents of the
development, including, but not limited to: Open grassy area of at least five thousand (5,000)
square feet in area; Community garden(s); natural waterways, open ditches, and laterals,
protective buffers a minimum of ten (10) feet in width dedicated for active access along these
natural open spaces count toward meeting the open space minimum requirements; plaza with
a minimum dimension of twenty (20) feet in all directions and including hardscape, seating,
lighting in conformance with the standards set forth in section 11-3A-11 and landscaping in
conformance with the requirements set forth in Article 11-3B, Landscaping Requirements; or
linear open space area that is at least twenty (20) feet and up to fifty (50) feet in width, has an
access at each end, and is improved and landscaped as set forth in Article 11-3B,
Landscaping Requirements.
The proposed project will include 104,345 square feet of qualified open space which is 8,940
square feet less than required. The applicant is asking for alternative compliance for
qualified open space requirement stating the site is irregular, has a unique targeted
demographic of an affordable housing community, has significant indoor and outdoor
passive and active amenities and excellent connectivity to public parks within walking
distance. The project also includes an extensive network of pedestrian oriented pathways
including an outer loop around the entire project with internal connections to the various
amenities for the project allowing for free movement of pedestrians throughout the site.
The Comprehensive Plan goal is for developments to plan for safe, attractive, and well-
maintained neighborhoods that have ample open space, and generous amenities that provide
varied lifestyle choices. The Comprehensive Plan's goal emphasizes the importance of safe,
attractive, and well-maintained neighborhoods with ample open space and amenities.
Reducing these elements, regardless of the parcel’s shape or target demographic, contradicts
the Plan’s standards. Furthermore, the applicant is increasing the density of the site beyond
what was previously approved, understanding they are also reducing open space. Adequate
open space and amenities are fundamental to maintaining the vibrancy and functionality of a
neighborhood. Adhering to the Comprehensive Plan ensures that developments contribute
positively to the community and uphold the quality of life for its residents.
It's important to recognize that proximity to parks and sports complexes doesn't fully address
the need for accessible and usable open space within a neighborhood. Even though the
project is less than a mile from Charles F. McDevitt Youth Sports Complex, Julius M. Kleiner
Memorial Park, and Champion Park, residents would still face the challenge of crossing
major arterial roads to reach these amenities. Pedestrian and bicycle crossing of these major
roadways adversely affect signal performance and signal timing, and is one of the stated
reasons for mixed use area analysis to not include areas bisected by major roadways. This
can be a significant barrier, particularly for families with young children, elderly residents,
or those without convenient transportation options.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
For the development to truly align with the Comprehensive Plan’s goals, it should include
sufficient open space and amenities within the project itself. This ensures that all residents
have easy, safe access to recreational areas without the need to navigate busy roads, thereby
enhancing the overall quality of life and community cohesion.
3. Landscaping (UDC 11-3B):
i. Landscape buffers along streets
The applicant is required to construct street buffers along Ustick Road, an arterial street,
and along Centrepoint Way, a local street. In addition, per UDC 11-3B-8, at least 5 feet
of landscaping is required along the perimeter of vehicle use areas (i.e. drive aisles) and
landscaping is also required along the base of the multi-family building elevations facing
any public street.
The applicant is proposing a reduction of the 35’ wide landscape buffer along Ustick
Road – up to a 50% reduction (17.5’), as allowed with the implementation of Water
Conserving Design principles (UDC 11-3B-5.O). Staff has no objection to the applicant’s
request to provide a water conserving design for the street buffer along Ustick Road.
ii. Parking lot landscaping
Per UDC 11-3B-8, the applicant shall provide perimeter and internal parking lot
landscaping to soften and mitigate the visual and heat island effect of a large expanse of
asphalt in parking lots, and to improve the safety and comfort of pedestrians. A five-foot
wide minimum landscape buffer adjacent to parking, loading, or other paved vehicular
use areas.
The applicant is proposing Alternative Compliance under UDC 11-3B-7.C.1.c to remove
the parking lot islands beneath the covered parking areas within the development.
Instead, the applicant plans to install solar carports, which will serve as a green
infrastructure amenity by providing an alternative power source for the development and
its residents. The solar carports will also fulfill the requirement for covered parking and
help reduce the heat impact of the surface parking lot.
According to the applicant, the removal of parking islands under the solar carports will
enhance solar panel efficiency by improving daylight capture and reducing maintenance
tasks such as clearing leaf debris and replacing plants or trees. Additionally, the solar
carports are expected to offset utility costs for residents. The applicant also notes that
despite the removal of these islands, the overall landscape buffer percentage will not
decrease, as the buffer areas along the east side of Centrepoint Way exceed the city's
code requirements. All uncovered parking areas will continue to comply with the
requirements for parking lot islands.
iii. Landscape buffers to adjoining uses
Per UDC 11-3B-9, a landscape buffer is required in the C-N, C-C, C-G, L-O, M-E, H-E,
and I-L districts on any parcel sharing a contiguous lot line with a residential land use.
The landscape buffer is required in the I-H district on any property sharing a contiguous
lot line with a nonindustrial use.
The single-family residential neighborhood to the south is screened with a twenty-five
(25) foot landscape buffer. The single-family residential neighborhood to the west is
likewise screened with a twenty-five (25) foot landscape buffer and further will be
screened by an eight (8) foot masonry wall.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
Staff finds the proposed landscape buffer adjacent to the residential neighborhoods meets
the requirements of the UDC and requires a detail of the masonry wall to be submitted
for review with the CZC application.
iv. Tree preservation
N/A – There are no existing trees on the property.
v. Storm integration
Per UDC 11-3B-11, the applicant shall meet the intent to improve water quality and
provide a natural, effective form of flood and water pollution control through the
integration of vegetated, well designed stormwater filtration swales and other green
stormwater facilities into required landscape areas, where topography and hydrologic
features allow if part of the development.
Development will be required to meet UDC 11-3B-11 for stormwater integration.
vi. Pathway landscaping
Landscaping for pathways shall meet the requirements outlined in UDC 11-3B-12.
Staff finds the landscape plan shows the applicant meets the requirements of UDC 11-3B-
12 for pathway landscaping.
4. Parking (UDC 11-3C):
Off-street parking for multi-family developments is required to be provided per the table in
UDC 11-3C-6 based on the number of bedrooms per unit. The Applicant is proposing 279
units consisting of 139 1-bedroom units, 105 2-bedroom units and 35 3-bedroom units. In
addition, one (1) guest space for every 10 units is required.
i. Residential parking analysis
Based on the total number of units proposed and their bedroom count distribution, a
minimum of 552 parking spaces, with a minimum of 279 of these spaces to be covered in
a garage or by a carport. In addition to meeting the minimum off-street parking amount,
the current Development Agreement City Council was not comfortable with the parking
area west of Centrepoint Way and expressed a desire for all buildings to be self-parked
within their respective areas of the site. The previous applicant provided documentation
showing the buildings to be self-parked within their respective areas of the site.
Although the buildings within the proposed development are not self-parked within their
respective areas of the site, as shown in the table below, the proposal meets the parking
requirement as outlined in UDC 11-3C.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
ii. Bicycle parking analysis
A minimum of one (1) bicycle parking space is required for every twenty-five (25)
vehicle parking spaces per UDC 11-3C-6G.
Based on the five hundred seventy-eight (552) vehicle parking spaces, a minimum of
twenty-two (22) bicycle parking spaces is required. The location of the bicycle racks has
been depicted on the site and landscape plans.
Staff finds the applicant meets the requirement for bicycle parking. An example of the
bicycle rack will be required to be submitted with the CZC for review and approval.
5. Building Elevations (Comp Plan, Architectural Standards Manual):
Administrative Design Review (DES) approval is required before building permit submittal
for multi-family residential dwellings. The Applicant did not submit for DES approval
concurrent with the subject CUP application so the submitted elevations will be fully
analyzed with that future application. Further, an application for a Certificate of Zoning
Compliance (CZC) will also be required to be submitted for this entire development before
the building permit submission.
Conceptual building elevations were submitted for the proposed multi-family buildings as
shown in Section VII.G. The applicant is requesting a design exception for the reduced
articulation of the building façade and the omission of the masonry along the base of the
building. This an administrative decision to be determined by the director. Final design will
be required to comply with the design standards in the Architectural Standards Manual
(ASM) and the recorded agreement unless otherwise waived by the Community Development
Director through a design exception request.
6. Fencing (UDC 11-3A-6, 11-3A-7):
All fencing constructed on the site is required to comply with the standards listed in UDC 11-
3A-7.
No fencing is shown on the submitted plans except for the eight (8) foot privacy wall along
the west boundary, as required by the Development Agreement. The applicant shall include
an exhibit of the privacy wall for staff review with the future Certificate of Zoning
Compliance (CZC) application. In addition, the applicant shall include any fencing proposed
for the noted dog park and sports court area along the existing shared north-south private
road N. Cajun Lane.
E. Transportation Analysis
The Ada County Highway District (ACHD) reviewed the submitted application and has
determined they support the applicant’s proposal to construct 5-foot wide detached concrete
sidewalk abutting the site meets District policy and should be approved, as proposed. However,
the sidewalk should be parallel to the roadway, as meandering sidewalks are discouraged under
ACHD policy. The detached sidewalk should be located a minimum of 41-feet from the
centerline of Ustick Road abutting the site.
ACHD also supports the applicant’s proposal to widen/reconstruct Centrepoint Way meets
District policy and should be approved as proposed with the exception of the 23-foot street
section which requires the construction of a 33-foot street section south of the driveways to the
site’s south property line. The lane configuration and striping at the intersection with Ustick
Road should be consistent with Centrepoint Way on the north side of Ustick Road across from the
site. The applicant will be responsible for the design and construction of any modifications to the
existing signal at the Centrepoint Way/Ustick Road intersection. The applicant should be
required to dedicate right-of-way to 2-feet behind back of sidewalk, or for detached sidewalk, the
applicant can reduce the right-of-way to 2-feet behind back of curb and provide a permanent a
permanent right-of-way easement that extends from the right-of- way line to 2-feet behind back
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
of sidewalk. Sidewalk shall be located wholly within right-of-way or wholly within an easement.
See diagram below.
1. Access (Comp Plan, UDC 11-3A-3, UDC 11-3H-4):
Per UDC 11-3A-3, the intent of these standards is to improve safety by combining
and/or limiting access points to collector and arterial streets and ensuring that
motorists can safely enter all streets unless waived by City Council.
Access for this development is from Centrepoint Way via Ustick Road and N. Cajun Lane via
Ustic Road. Both the shared drive aisle and public street are existing. The shared drive aisle
connects from N. Cajun Lane (a private street) to the south up to Ustick Road. This drive
aisle was required with the previous Villasport approvals and the Wadsworth site on the hard
corner for cross-access and interconnectivity to and from Ustick Road. In addition, the
Bienville Square plat depicts cross-access over Cajun Lane and out to Eagle Road furthering
the previous anticipation that some traffic would flow through this area. N. Centrepoint Way
is an existing local street that connects the Bienville Square Subdivision (Jackson Square)
and this site to Ustick Road via a public road and is signalized at the intersection of Ustick
Road and Centrepoint Way.
Ustick Road is improved with 5-travel lanes, vertical curb and gutter abutting the site. A five
(5) foot wide detached concrete sidewalk exists abutting the site on the west side of
Centrepoint Way and no sidewalk abutting the site on the east side of Centrepoint Way. There
is eighty-six (86) to one hundred twenty-two (122) feet of right-of-way for Ustick Road (fifty
(50) to eighty (80) feet from centerline).
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
2. Multiuse Pathways (UDC 11-3A-5):
Multiuse pathways shall be constructed in accord with the city's comprehensive plan, the
Meridian Pathways Master Plan, the Ada County Highway District Master Street Map and
Roadways to Bikeways Master Plan.
3. Pathways (Comp Plan, UDC 11-3A-8):
All pathways should be constructed in accord with the standards listed in UDC 11-3A-8.
The Applicant is proposing to construct the missing segment of sidewalk along Ustick Road
with a 5-foot wide detached sidewalk, consistent with the UDC requirements. Further, the
Applicant is proposing to continue the existing sidewalk along the east side of the shared
drive aisle and install a new sidewalk along its west side. The Applicant is proposing 5-foot
wide micro-paths throughout the development including within linear open space along the
western and southern boundaries.
4. Sidewalks (UDC 11-3A-17):
All sidewalks constructed as part of this proposal are required to comply with the standards
listed in UDC 11-3A-17.
Detached sidewalks are existing along both sides of N. Centrepoint Way and one segment of
the attached sidewalk is located along Ustick Road, west of Centrepoint Way; the remaining
Ustick Road frontage does not have any existing sidewalk. The applicant is proposing a 5-
foot wide detached sidewalk along Ustick Road and the shared drive aisle and is also
proposing 5-foot wide micro-pathways throughout the development.
As noted above, the Applicant is proposing to construct the missing segment of sidewalk
along Ustick Road with a 5-foot wide detached sidewalk, consistent with code requirements.
Further, the Applicant is proposing to continue the existing sidewalk along the east side of
the shared drive aisle and install a new sidewalk along its west side. The Applicant is
proposing 5-foot wide micro-paths throughout the development including within linear open
space along the south boundary. Staff supports the proposed sidewalk and micro-path
network.
In addition, Staff finds that safer pedestrian crossings can be installed consistent with UDC
11-3A-19B across many internal drive aisles that connect internal sidewalks to the perimeter
sidewalks. Specifically, per UDC 11-3A-19B.4, the crossings should be constructed with a
different material than the driving surface (i.e. brick, pavers, colored or stamped concrete,
etc.) and be located at any crossing from the main drive aisle connections to Centrepoint or
the shared drive aisle on the east side of the site.
5. Private Streets (UDC 11-3F-4):
There is an existing private street, N. Cajun Lane, that abuts the east side of the property.
Improvements to the private road are required as part of this development. No new private
streets are being proposed for this development.
F. Services Analysis
1. Waterways (Comp Plan, UDC 11-3A-6):
Per UDC 11-3A-6, requires limiting the tiling and piping of natural waterways, including, but
not limited to, ditches, canals, laterals, sloughs and drains where public safety is not a
concern as well as improve, protect and incorporate creek corridors (Five Mile, Eight Mile,
Nine Mile, Ten Mile, South Slough and Jackson and Evan Drains) as an amenity in all
City of Meridian | Department Report III. Staff Analysis
residential, commercial and industrial designs. When piping and fencing is proposed, the
standards outlined in UDC 11-3A-6B shall apply.
The Milk Lateral has previously been piped and there is a thirty (30) foot irrigation easement
that goes through the property.
2. Pressurized Irrigation (UDC 11-3A-15):
The City of Meridian requires that pressurized irrigation systems be supplied by a year-round
source of water (UDC 11-3B-6). The applicant should be required to use any existing surface
or well water for the primary source. If a surface or well source is not available, a single-
point connection to the culinary water system shall be required. If a single-point connection
is utilized, the developer will be responsible for the payment of assessments for the common
areas prior to prior to receiving development plan approval.
3. Storm Drainage (UDC 11-3A-18):
An adequate storm drainage system is required in all developments by the City’s adopted
standards, specifications, and ordinances. Design and construction shall follow best
management practices as adopted by the City as outlined in UDC 11-3A-18. Storm drainage
will be proposed with a future Certificate of Zoning Compliance application and shall be
constructed to City and ACHD design criteria.
4. Utilities (Comp Plan, UDC 11-3A-21):
Ensure development is connected to City of Meridian water and sanitary sewer systems and
the extension to and through said developments are constructed in conformance with the City
of Meridian Water and Sewer System Master Plans in effect at the time of development. All
utilities are available to the site. Water main, fire hydrant and water service require a
twenty-foot (20) wide easement that extends ten (10) feet past the end of main, hydrant, or
water meter. No permanent structures, including trees are allowed inside the easement.
G. Development Agreement
The Applicant is requesting a modification to the existing Development Agreement [Inst. #2022-
079000 to include the following changes:
B. OWNER/DEVELOPER has submitted an applicationapplied for a Modification of the existing
Development Agreement (Instrument #2019-060877) for the purpose of updating the concept
and a plan and provisions to construct a mixed-use development consisting of commercial
space and aand a multi-family development in lieu of an athletic club/spa and commercial
building on 11.17 acres in the C-G zoning district. The Meridian City Council approved said
application with Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law as set forth in the attached Exhibit
“B”the Modification and the Addendum to Development Agreement was recorded as
Instrument #2022-079000 in Ada County Records.
C. CITY, and OWNER/DEVELOPER now desire to amend said Development Agreement and
Addendum to Development Agreement, which terms have been approved by the Meridian
City Council in accordance with UDC section 11-5B-4.
1. OWNER/DEVELOPER shall be bound by the terms of the Development Agreement recorded
as Instrument #2019-060877, except as specifically amended as follows:
a. Future development of this site shall be substantially consistent with the submitted concept
plan and color renderings included in Section VI of attached to this Second Addendum as
Exhibit A B and the provisions contained herein.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. City/Agency Comments & Conditions
b. Future development shall comply with the standards outline in the multi-family
development specific use standards, UDC 11-04-3-27, except for any requests for
Alternative Compliance approved by the City.
c. All future pedestrian crossings that traverse shared drive aisles within the development
shall be constructed with brick, pavers, stamped concrete, or colored concrete to clearly
delineate the driving surface from the pedestrian facilities, per UDC 11-3A-19B.4b.
d. The required landscape street buffers and multi-use pathway segment shall be constructed
and vegetated with the first phase of development along E. Ustick Road and N. Eagle Road;
the proposed 25-foot landscape buffer along the west and south boundaries shall be
constructed with the first phase of development.
e. Applicant shall work with ACHD to construct a safe pedestrian crossing from the multi -
family site area to the parking lot along the west boundary across N. Centrepoint Way.
f. With the future Conditional Use Permit for the multi-family development, the building
heights shall along the west boundary shall not be more than not exceed two stories 45-feet
in height and the three (3) buildings within the center of the project shall be no more than
three stories in height, consistent with the Applicant’s revised concept plan and
presentation to Council.
g. Applicant shall continue the masonry wall along the west property boundary consistent
with adjacent development and to help buffer the proposed project.
h. Staff and Applicant shall work with ACHD to mark Centrepoint Way as no-parking on both
sides, should ACHD allow it.
III. CITY/AGENCY COMMENTS & CONDITIONS
A. Meridian Planning Division
1. Development Agreement Modification:
Fifteen (15) days prior to the City Council hearing, the applicant shall provide the
revised concept plan for the elevations, landscaping plan and open space exhibit subject
to the new DA.
1.1 The modified DA shall be signed by the property owner and returned to the Planning
Division within six (6) months of the City Council approval of the Findings. The DA
shall, at minimum, incorporate the following provisions:
a. Future development of this site shall be generally consistent with the proposed site
plan, landscape plans and conceptual building elevations included in Section V-D
and V-G and the provisions contained herein.
b. Before the multi-family units are occupied, Owner and/or Developer shall record a
income-restricted housing tax credit regulatory agreement with the Ada County
Recorder’s Office to restrict the rental rates on the units for a minimum of forty (40)
years to ensure the units are affordable to individuals and families earning, averaged
within the entire project, no more than sixty percent (60%) of the area median income
and provide said agreement prior to issuance of any building permit for the proposed
City of Meridian | Department Report III. City/Agency Comments & Conditions
use. City shall be deemed to be a third-party beneficiary of said regulatory
agreement.
c. All future pedestrian crossings that traverse shared drive aisles within the development
shall be constructed with brick, pavers, stamped concrete, or colored concrete to clearly
delineate the driving surface from the pedestrian facilities, per UDC 11-3A-19B.4b.
d. The required landscape street buffers and multi-use pathway segment shall be
constructed and vegetated with the first phase of development along E. Ustick Road
and N. Eagle Road; the proposed 25-foot landscape buffer along the west and south
boundaries shall be constructed with the first phase of development.
e. Applicant shall work with ACHD to construct a safe pedestrian crossing from the
multi-family site area to the parking lot along the west boundary across N.
Centrepoint Way
f. The height of the buildings shall not exceed the height shown on the elevations in
Exhibit G or as modified by City Council.
2. Conditional Use Permit:
2.1 The Applicant shall comply with all specific use standards for the proposed use of
Multi-family Residential Development (UDC 11-4-3-27).
2.2 The Applicant shall obtain a Certificate of Zoning Compliance (CZC) and
Administrative Design Review (DES) approvals before submitting for any building
permit within this development.
2.3 At the time of Certificate of Zoning Compliance submittal, the Applicant shall submit a
recorded and legally binding document(s) that state the maintenance and ownership
responsibilities for the management of the development, including, but not limited to,
structures, parking, common areas, and other development features, per UDC 11-4-3-
27F standards.
2.4 Future development shall be consistent with the minimum dimensional standards listed
in UDC Table 11-2B-3-7 for the C-G zoning district.
2.5 Off-street parking is required to be provided by the standards listed in UDC Table 11-
3C-6 for multi-family dwellings based on the number of bedrooms per unit.
2.6 The Applicant shall work with Valley Regional Transit to ensure the transit stop shelter
being proposed is appropriate for that location and if they are willing to maintain the
area proposed.
2.7 The Applicant shall comply with all ACHD conditions of approval.
2.8 The Applicant shall comply with all ITDs conditions of approval.
2.9 The Applicant shall dedicate twelve (12) feet of right-of-way on Eagle Road to
reconstruct the right turn lane to Seville Lane.
2.10 No recreational vehicles, snowmobiles, boats, or other personal recreation vehicles
shall be stored on the site unless provided for in a separate, designated and screened
area.
2.11 A total of eight (8) amenities shall be installed as proposed by the applicant.
2.12 Provide a pressurized irrigation system consistent with the standards as outlined in
UDC 11-3A-15, UDC 11-3B-6, and UDC 9-1-28.
City of Meridian | Department Report III. City/Agency Comments & Conditions
2.13 Upon completion of the landscape installation, a written Certificate of Completion shall
be submitted to the Planning Division verifying all landscape improvements are in
substantial compliance with the approved landscape plan as outlined in UDC 11-3B-14.
2.14 Fifteen (15) days prior to the City Council hearing, the applicant shall provide the
revised concept plan for the elevations, landscaping plan and open space exhibit to
show the removed parking stalls and open space revisions. Provide details for the
amenities.
2.15 The Conditional Use Permit approval shall become null and void unless otherwise
approved by the City if the applicant fails to 1) commence the use, satisfy the
requirements, acquire building permits and commence construction within two years as
outlined in UDC 11-5B-6F.1; or 2) obtain approval of a time extension as outlined in
UDC 11-5B-6F.4.
2.16 The Director has approved the Alternative Compliance Request to remove the
landscape island underneath the covered carports per UDC 11-3B-8.
2.17 The Director has approved the Alternative Compliance Request to reduce the open
space requirement by 8,940 square feet with the provisions that the applicant remove
the parking stalls parallel on the north property boundary and increase the street
landscape buffer to thirty-five (35) feet on the northwest property line adjacent to
Ustick Road.
B. Meridian Public Works
See public record (copy the link into a separate window)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
C. Meridian Fire Department
A full fire plan review shall be completed prior to construction of the project.
D. Meridian Park’s Department
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
E. Irrigation Districts
1. Nampa & Meridian Irrigation District
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=Meridia
nCity
F. Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
G. West Ada School District (WASD) or Other District/School
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
City of Meridian | Department Report IV. Findings
H. Ada County Highway District (ACHD)
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
I. Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
See public record (copy the link into a separate browser)
https://weblink.meridiancity.org/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=356286&dbid=0&repo=MeridianCit
y
IV. FINDINGS
A. Alternative Compliance (UDC 11-5B-5E)
In order to grant approval for an alternative compliance application, the Director shall determine
the following:
1. Strict adherence or application of the requirements are not feasible; or
As noted in Section III.D.3, the applicant is requesting alternative compliance due to a
deficiency in the required amount of qualified open space, as detailed in the previous section.
Staff finds that the applicant’s request to increase the site density beyond the previously
approved level has significantly reduced the amount of qualified open space. Adequate open
space and amenities are essential for maintaining the vibrancy and functionality of a
neighborhood. Adhering to the Comprehensive Plan is crucial to ensuring that developments
contribute positively to the community and uphold the quality of life for residents.
The applicant also requested alternative compliance for the removal of the parking lot
islands under the covered parking for internal parking. The applicant states that despite the
removal of these islands, the overall landscape buffer percentage will not decrease, as the
buffer areas along the east side of Centrepoint Way exceed the city's code requirements. All
uncovered parking areas will continue to comply with the requirements for parking lot
islands.
Staff finds the request feasible as the installation of solar carports, will serve as a green
infrastructure amenity by providing an alternative power source for the development and its
residents.
2. The alternative compliance provides an equal or superior means for meeting the
requirements; and
Based on the statement above for the qualified open space, staff finds the applicant did not
meet this requirement.
Based on the statement above for the removal of the landscape islands underneath the solar
carports, staff finds the applicant met this requirement.
3. The alternative means will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or impair the
intended uses and character of surrounding properties.
Staff finds that the proposed alternative means will not be materially detrimental to public
welfare or impair the intended uses and character of surrounding properties. However,
reducing the proposed density to the previously approved number of units would increase the
available open space, thereby contributing positively to the community and enhancing the
quality of life for residents within the development.
City of Meridian | Department Report IV. Findings
Staff finds the alternative compliance request for the removal of the landscape islands
underneath the solar carports will not be materially detrimental to public welfare or impair
the intended uses and character of surrounding properties.
B. Conditional Use (UDC 11-5B-6E)
The commission shall base its determination on the conditional use permit request upon the
following:
1. That the site is large enough to accommodate the proposed use and meet all the dimensional
and development regulations in the district in which the use is located.
Staff finds that as proposed, the design cannot meet the dimensional standards and
development regulations without the approval of several alternative compliance request.
However, staff feels if the proposal adheres to the conditions of the staff report it would be a
nice addition to the community.
2. That the proposed use will be harmonious with the Meridian comprehensive plan and in
accord with the requirements of this title.
Staff finds that if the site is built as recommended by staff and all conditions of approval are
met, staff finds the proposed site design and use of multi-family residential would be
harmonious with the comprehensive plan designation of Mixed-Use Regional and the
requirements of this title when included in the overall MU-R designated area.
3. That the design, construction, operation and maintenance will be compatible with other uses
in the general neighborhood and with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity
and that such use will not adversely change the essential character of the same area.
Staff finds that despite the proposed use being different from the residential uses to the west
and south, the site design, construction, and proposed operation and maintenance will be
compatible with other uses in the general neighborhood and should not adversely change the
essential character of the same area.
4. That the proposed use, if it complies with all conditions of the approval imposed, will not
adversely affect other property in the vicinity.
Staff finds the proposed use, if it complies with all conditions of approval for CUP H-2022-
0072 and MDA H-2022-0035, it will not adversely affect other property in the vicinity.
5. That the proposed use will be served adequately by essential public facilities and services
such as highways, streets, schools, parks, police and fire protection, drainage structures,
refuse disposal, water, and sewer.
Staff finds the proposed use will be served adequately by essential public facilities and
services because all services are readily available and both ACHD and ITD have reviewed
and approved the proposed layout and traffic generation with conditions.
6. That the proposed use will not create excessive additional costs for public facilities and
services and will not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community.
All public facilities and services are readily available for the subject site so staff finds that
the proposed use will not be detrimental to the economic welfare of the community or create
excessive additional costs for public facilities and services. Utilities have already been
approved for this development with the previous application.
7. That the proposed use will not involve activities or processes, materials, equipment and
conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property or the general
welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare or odors.
Staff finds that although traffic is sure to increase in the vicinity with the addition of more
residential units, the addition of the multifamily in this will not be detrimental to any persons,
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
property or the general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke,
fumes, glare or odors.
8. That the proposed use will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic or
historic feature considered to be of major importance.
Staff is unaware of any natural, scenic, or historic features within the development area,
therefore, staff finds the proposed use should not result in damage to any such features.
V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
A. Multi-family Development (UDC 11-4-3-27) Specific Use Standards:
A. Purpose.
1. To implement the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan:
a. Plan for safe, attractive, and well-maintained neighborhoods that have ample open
space, and generous amenities that provide varied lifestyle choices.
Staff finds the applicant does not meet the open space requirements as per the project
goals. The proposed amenities are also insufficient compared to those previously
approved. Given that this is a low-income housing development, providing ample and
accessible amenities within the complex is crucial for the residents, as they may face
challenges in traveling to access similar facilities elsewhere.
b. Require the design and construction of pathways connections, easy pedestrian and
bicycle access to parks, safe routes to schools, and the incorporation of usable open
space with quality amenities as part of new multi-family residential and mixed-use
developments.
2. To create multi-family housing that is safe and convenient and that enhances the quality
of life of its residents.
a. To create quality buildings and designs for multi-family development that enhance
the visual character of the community.
Staff finds the request to exclude the masonry from the base of the building does meet
the City's architectural standards for multifamily developments, as building designs
must include masonry at the base. The applicant is requesting a design exception to
exclude the masonry along the base of the building.
b. To create building and site design in multi-family development that is sensitive to and
well-integrated with the surrounding neighborhood.
The applicant is requesting a design exception to exclude masonry along the base of
the building. According to the City's architectural standards for multifamily
developments, building designs must include masonry at the base. The request for this
design exception will undergo review during the administrative process, with the final
determination to be made by the Director.
c. To create open space areas that contribute to the aesthetics of the community, provide
an attractive setting for buildings, and provide safe, interesting outdoor spaces for
residents.
Staff finds the applicant does not meet the open space requirements as outlined in the
project goals. Staff recommends relocating all amenities to the inner portion of the
lot, specifically near buildings A, B1, and B2. This would create a safer outdoor
environment for residents, as opposed to placing the sports court and dog park
adjacent to N. Cajun Lane.
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
B. Site design.
1. Buildings shall provide a minimum setback of ten (10) feet unless a greater setback is
otherwise required by this title and/or title 10 of this Code. Building setbacks shall take
into account windows, entrances, porches, and patios, and how they impact adjacent
properties.
The Applicant is proposing a total of five (5) buildings within three (3) distinct areas for
the Centrepoint Apartments. The west area (west of Centrepoint Way) includes Building
D, four stories tall (41-foot building height to the roof's peak). The central area includes
the three buildings, Buildings A, B1 & B2, and are 41-feet tall to the roof’s peak. East of
the shared drive aisle that connects Cajun Lane to Ustick Road, one 4-story building is
shown.
Based on the submitted Site Plan, this requirement is met because none of the buildings
are proposed closer than approximately 25 feet from any property boundary.
2. All on-site service areas, outdoor storage areas, waste storage, disposal facilities, and
transformer and utility vaults shall be located in an area not visible from a public street,
or shall be fully screened from view from a public street.
The Applicant shall comply with this standard. However, there are existing transformer
and utility vaults along E. Ustick Road that were in place before this owner obtained the
property. Staff does not find it prudent or feasible to require these vaults to be relocated
as they are previously existing and the proposed landscaping will beautify these
structures along the street frontage for added screening.
3. A minimum of eighty (80) square feet of private, usable open space shall be provided for
each unit. This requirement can be satisfied through porches, patios, decks, and/or
enclosed yards. Landscaping, entryway, and other accessways shall not count toward this
requirement. In circumstances where strict adherence to such standards would create an
inconsistency with the purpose statements of this section, the Director may consider an
alternative design proposal through the alternative compliance provisions as outlined in
section 11-5B-5 of this title.
The Applicant shall adhere to this standard. This will be reviewed with the submittal of
the CZC and DES application as it is a condition of approval.
4. For this section, vehicular circulation areas, parking areas, and private usable open space
shall not be considered common open space.
Staff finds the applicant has met this requirement.
5. No recreational vehicles, snowmobiles, boats, or other personal recreation vehicles shall
be stored on the site unless provided for in a separate, designated and screened area.
The Applicant shall adhere to this standard as it is a condition of approval.
6. The parking shall meet the requirements outlined in chapter 3, "regulations applying to
all districts", of this title.
Staff finds the applicant has met this requirement. See the parking section in the general
analysis below.
7. Developments with twenty (20) units or more shall provide the following:
a. A property management office.
b. A maintenance storage area.
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
c. A central mailbox location, including provisions for parcel mail, that provides safe
pedestrian and/or vehicular access.
d. A directory and map of the development at an entrance or convenient location for
those entering the development.
The applicant is proposing more than 20 units (279 units) so the applicant is required to
provide the items above in compliance with this standard. These items shall be depicted
on the site plan with the submittal of the CZC application.
C. Common open space design requirements.
1. The total baseline land area of all qualified common open spaces shall equal or exceed ten
(10) percent of the gross land area for multi-family developments of five (5) acres or more.
The multi-family area is greater than 5 acres in size, approximately 10 acres.
Approximately 43,516 square feet equals a baseline of ten (10) percent of open space. The
applicant is required to provide 113,266 square feet of open space but is only providing
104,345 square feet. The applicant is requesting alternative compliance for the 8,940
square foot deficiency in qualified open space.
2. All common open spaces shall meet the following standards:
a. The development plan shall demonstrate that the open space has been integrated into
the development as a priority and not for land use after all other development elements
have been designed. Open space areas that have been given priority in the
development design have:
(1) Direct pedestrian access;
(2) High visibility;
(3) Comply with Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CTED)
standards; and
(4) Support a range of leisure and play activities and uses.
Staff finds that the applicant did not prioritize the integration of open space into the
development. It appears that open space was considered only after other development
elements were finalized, resulting in a deficiency in the required amount of open
space.
b. Open space shall be accessible and well-connected throughout the development. This
quality can be shown with open spaces that are centrally located within the
development, accessible by pathway and visually accessible along collector streets or
as a terminal view from a street.
c. The open space promotes the health and well-being of its residents. Open space shall
support active and passive uses for recreation, social gathering, and relaxation to serve
the development.
Staff finds that although the applicant has provided these items to serve the
development, the request to increase the site’s density beyond the previously approved
level has significantly reduced the amount of qualified open space. Adequate
qualified open space and amenities are essential for maintaining the vibrancy and
functionality of a neighborhood as well as upholding the quality of life for residents.
3. All multi-family projects over twenty (20) units shall provide at least one (1) common
grassy area integrated into the site design allowing for general activities by all ages. This
area may be included in the minimum required open space total. Projects that provide safe
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
access to adjacent public parks or parks under a common HOA, without crossing an
arterial roadway, are exempt from this standard.
a. Minimum size of the common grassy area shall be at least five thousand (5,000)
square feet in area. This area shall increase proportionately as the number of units
increase and shall be commensurate to the size of the multi-family development as
determined by the decision-making body. Where this area cannot be increased due
to site constraints, it may be included elsewhere in the development.
b. Alternative compliance is available for these standards if a project has a unique
targeted demographic; utilizes other place-making design elements in Old-Town or
mixed-use future land-use designations with collectively integrated and shared open
space areas.
The submitted plans depict two (2) open common grassy areas 8,000 - 9,000 square
feet, above the required 5,000 square foot minimum. Although the Applicant is
providing amenities above code requirements within this development, the
development is deficient in the required amount of qualified open space.
The applicant is asking for alternative compliance for qualified open space
requirement stating the site is irregular, has a unique targeted demographic of an
affordable housing community, has significant indoor and outdoor passive and
active amenities and excellent connectivity to public parks within walking distance.
The project also includes an extensive network of pedestrian oriented pathways
including an outer loop around the entire project with internal connections to the
various amenities for the project allowing for free movement of pedestrians
throughout the site.
Staff finds that the applicant’s request to increase the site density beyond the
previously approved level has reduced the amount of qualified open space. Adequate
qualified open space and amenities are essential for maintaining the vibrancy and
functionality of a neighborhood. Adhering to the Comprehensive Plan is crucial to
ensuring that developments contribute positively to the community and uphold the
quality of life for residents.
4. In addition to the baseline open space requirement, a minimum area of outdoor common
open space shall be provided as follows:
a. One hundred fifty (150) square feet for each unit containing five hundred (500) or
fewer square feet of living area.
b. Two hundred fifty (250) square feet for each unit containing more than five hundred
(500) square feet and up to one thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet of living
area.
c. Three hundred fifty (350) square feet for each unit containing more than one
thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet of living area.
Per the property size and the unit counts and their sizes, the minimum open space
required to be provided is 113,266 square feet (approximately 2.60 acres).
According to the submitted open space exhibit and landscape plans, the project is
deficient by approximately 8,940 square feet of qualified open space. The applicant
is requesting alternative compliance stating the site has an additional 40,498 square
feet of non-qualifying landscape area, pathways, and buffer landscape area not
included in the qualifying calculation.
5. Common open space shall be not less than four hundred (400) square feet in area, and shall
have a minimum length and width dimension of twenty (20) feet.
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
Staff finds that the Applicant complies with this requirement.
6. In phased developments, common open space shall be provided in each phase of the
development consistent with the requirements for the size and number of dwelling units.
Staff is not aware of any phasing for the proposed project.
7. Unless otherwise approved through the conditional use process, common open space areas
shall not be adjacent to a collector or arterial streets unless separated from the street by a
berm or constructed barrier at least four (4) feet in height, with breaks in the berm or barrier
to allow for pedestrian access.
The applicant is proposing over 8,000 square feet of open grassy area adjacent to Ustick
Road which is an arterial. The applicant is required provide an updated landscape plan
fifteen day prior to the City Council public hearing showing how they meet this
requirement unless otherwise waived by Council through the CUP process.
D. Site development amenities.
1. All multifamily developments shall provide for quality of life, open space, and recreation
amenities to meet the particular needs of the residents as follows:
a. Quality of life.
(1) Clubhouse.
(2) Fitness facilities.
(3) Enclosed bike storage.
(4) Public art such as a statue.
(5) Dog park with a waste station.
(6) Commercial outdoor kitchen.
(7) Fitness course.
(8) Enclosed storage
b. Open space.
(1) Community garden.
(2) Ponds or water features.
(3) Plaza.
(4) Picnic area including tables, benches, landscaping, and a structure for shade.
c. Recreation.
(1) Pool.
(2) Walking trails.
(3) Children's play structures.
(4) Sports courts.
d. Multi-modal amenity standards.
(1) Bicycle repair station.
(2) Park and ride lot.
(3) Sheltered transit stop.
City of Meridian | Department Report V. Multi-Family Development Analysis
(4) Charging stations for electric vehicles.
2. The number of amenities shall depend on the size of the multifamily development as
follows:
a. For multifamily developments with less than twenty (20) units, two (2) amenities
shall be provided from two (2) separate categories.
b. For multifamily development between twenty (20) and seventy-five (75) units, three
(3) amenities shall be provided, with one (1) from each category.
c. For multifamily development with seventy-five (75) units or more, four (4) amenities
shall be provided, with at least one (1) from each category.
d. For multifamily developments with more than one hundred (100) units, the decision-
making body shall require additional amenities commensurate to the size of the
proposed development.
3. The decision-making body shall be authorized to consider other improvements in addition
to those provided under this subsection (D), provided that these improvements provide a
similar level of amenity.
For the 279 multi-family units proposed, a minimum of four (4) amenities, one from each
category, shall be provided to satisfy the specific use standards. The Planning and Zoning
Commission is authorized to require the applicant to provide more amenities through this
process if needed. Per the submitted plans and narrative, eight (8) qualifying amenities
are proposed with amenities from each category. The proposed amenities include a
clubhouse with community space and leasing office, indoor fitness facilities, large
common grassy areas ranging from 8,000-9,000 sf, shaded plaza/courtyard with activity
lawn, shaded picnic areas with barbecue grills, tables, landscaping, children’s play
structure, dog park with waste station, a micro-path system, sports courts, and a bicycle
repair station with tools and a pump. All of the proposed amenities except the proposed
dog park and sports court are located within the central open space area or part of the
three (3) central buildings (A, B1 and B2).
E. Landscaping requirements.
1. Development shall meet the minimum landscaping requirements by chapter 3,
"regulations applying to all districts", of this title.
The applicant is proposing a reduction in street buffer landscaping for Ustick Road and
Centrepoint Way by using water conserving design. UDC 11-3B-5.O allows a fifty (50%)
percent reduction to the landscape buffer.
2. All street-facing elevations shall have landscaping along their foundation. The foundation
landscaping shall meet the following minimum standards:
a. The landscaped area shall be at least three (3) feet wide.
b. For every three (3) linear feet of foundation, an evergreen shrub having a minimum
mature height of twenty-four (24) inches shall be planted.
c. Ground cover plants shall be planted in the remainder of the landscaped area.
Staff finds the applicant is has met this requirement.
F. Maintenance and ownership responsibilities. All multifamily developments shall record
legally binding documents that state the maintenance and ownership responsibilities for the
management of the development, including, but not limited to, structures, parking, commo n
areas, and other development features.
City of Meridian | Department Report VI. Action
The applicant shall comply with this requirement and provide said document at the time of
CZC submittal.
VI. ACTION
A. Staff:
Staff recommends approval of the requested Development Agreement Modification and
Conditional Use Permit per the conditions of approval included in Section III in accord
accordance with Findings in Section IV.
B. Commission:
Pending
C. City Council:
Action Pending.
VII. EXHIBITS
A. Project Area Maps
(link to Project Overview)
1. Aerial
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
2. Zoning Map
3. Future Land Use
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
4. Planned Development Map
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
B. Subject Site Photos
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
C. Service Accessibility Report
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
D. Proposed Site Plan (date: 8/29/2024)
H-2022-0072 Centrepoint Apartments CUP Approved Site Plan (date: 8/30/2022)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
E. Landscape Plan (date: 7/18/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
F. Qualified Open Space Exhibit (date: 8/29/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
G. Building Elevations (date: 5/6/2024)
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits
City of Meridian | Department Report VII. Exhibits