HomeMy WebLinkAboutPZ - ALt Compliance 2.26.2025 DEVCOLIC
February 26,2025
City of Meridian
Planning Division
33 E. Broadway Ave.
Meridian, ID 83642
Subject: Rockwell Neighborhood- Request for Alternative Compliance to Section 11-3H-4D—
State Highway 16 Corridor Berm Requirement
Dear Nick Napoli,
I respectfully submit this request for alternative compliance to Section 11-3H-4D of the Meridian City
Code,which requires the construction of a berm or berm-wall combination along the State Highway 16
corridor to achieve a height of 10 feet above the highway's centerline.
At the southeastern boundary of our project,the highway elevation significantly increases as it transitions
into an overpass above the McMillan Road right-of-way(ROW). Due to this substantial grade change,
constructing a berm or wall that maintains a 10-foot height above the ROW in this area presents
considerable engineering challenges and is impractical. The extreme elevation difference would require
excessive structural and grading modifications that are not feasible within the constraints of the site.
As an alternative,we propose to construct a 6-foot-high berm with a 6-foot-high wall using the Rhino
Wall product, selected for its effective sound-deadening properties. To further enhance sound attenuation,
we have included an updated cross-section illustrating the proposed wall and berm design. Additionally,
we plan to plant trees and shrubs along the west side of the wall to provide further noise reduction and
aesthetic enhancement.
Beyond the perimeter treatments,we are also incorporating additional sound-attenuating construction
practices for homes adjacent to the highway. These measures include installing windows and doors with
reduced sound transmission features, as well as utilizing additional layers of sheathing and insulation on
the eastern side of the homes facing the highway.We respectfully request that these design features be
evaluated and approved at the building permit stage.
In addition to these alternative compliance measures,we are providing significantly more open space and
amenities than required by City Code, further enhancing the quality and livability of the development.
We appreciate your time and consideration of this request and look forward to working with you to
finalize a solution that meets the intent of the code while addressing the practical challenges of this site.
Please let us know if any additional information is needed to facilitate your review.
Sincerely,
Laren Bailey,MCRP
President
DevCo LLC
DEVCOLIC