HomeMy WebLinkAbout5549 ORDINANCE NO. 5549
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUBURN,
WASHINGTON, RELATING TO PLANNING AND AMENDING THE CITY OF
AUBURN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BY ADOPTING A SUBAREA PLAN
ENTITLED THE AUBURN DOWNTOWN PLAN PURSUANT TO THE
PROVISIONS OF R.C.W. CHAPTERS 36.70A AND 35A.63 OF THE LAWS OF
THE STATE OF WASHINGTON; DESIGNATING THIS PLAN AS GUIDELINES
FOR EXERCISING THE CITY'S AUTHORITY UNDER THE WASHINGTON
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (SEPA); AND DIRECTING THAT
THIS ORDINANCE AND THE SUBAREA PLAN HEREBY ADOPTED BE
FILED WITH THE AUBURN CITY CLERK AND BE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC
INSPECTION.
WHEREAS, the City of Auburn on April 17, 1995 adopted
Comprehensive Plan amendments by Resolution No. 2635 to comply with the
Washington State Growth Management Act; and
WHEREAS, the City of Auburn on September 5, 1995 reaffirmed that
action by Ordinance No. 4788; and
WHEREAS, the Auburn Comprehensive Plan has been amended
several times since that time; and
WHEREAS, like many downtowns across the nation, downtown Auburn
has over time experienced physical and economic decline; and
WHEREAS, to address the decline in the Auburn downtown and in
anticipation of downtown public investment projects including street
improvements, a new commuter rail/transit station and a parking garage, the
City of Auburn in 1997 undertook a process to prepare a downtown plan; and
WHEREAS, this planning effort was intended to develop and adopt a
new downtown plan for Auburn to supersede the 1987 Auburn Downtown Plan
and the 1990 Auburn Downtown Design Master Plan; and
Ordinance No. 5549
May 21, 2001
Page 1
WHEREAS, a Downtown Task Force comprised of citizens representing
a wide range of interests was formed in 1997 to prepare a downtown vision and
plan for Auburn, with the assistance of City staff and consultants and
completed its work in 2000; and
WHEREAS, the Auburn Downtown Plan was prepared as an integrated
plan/EIS document as provided for in State Law; and
WHEREAS, on December 7, 2000 the integrated Auburn Downtown
Plan/Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) was formally issued with a
60-day SEPA comment period that concluded February 5, 2001; and
WHEREAS, comment letters received during the SEPA comment period
were responded to in the Final EIS issued April 19, 2001 with a 21-day appeal
period concluding May 10, 2001 with no appeals having been filed; and
WHEREAS, the environmental impacts of the Auburn Downtown Plan
were considered in accordance with procedures of the State Environmental
Policy Act; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Auburn Downtown Plan/Draft EIS was
received by the Washington State Office of Community Development on
December 7, 2000 for the purposes of the State agency 60-day review process
required under RCW 36.70A.106 with that process now having been
completed; and
WHEREAS, after proper notice published in the City's official newspaper
at least ten (10) days prior to the date of hearing, the Auburn Planning
Commission on February 6, 2001 held a public hearing on the Downtown Plan
and environmental impacts of the proposal; and
Ordinance No. 5549
May 21,2001
Page 2
WHEREAS, at the public hearing, the Auburn City Planning Commission
heard public testimony and took evidence and exhibits into consideration on the
Auburn Downtown Plan; and
WHEREAS, thereafter on February 13, 2001 the Auburn City Planning
Commission recommended to the City Council that the Auburn Downtown Plan
be approved with revisions; and
WHEREAS, the City of Auburn Planning and Community Development
Committee of the Auburn City Council discussed the Auburn Downtown Plan at
its March 12, 2001 and March 26, 2001 meetings, the Auburn City Council held
a study session on the Auburn Downtown Plan on April 18, 2001, and the City
of Auburn Public Works Committee of the Auburn City Council discussed the
Auburn Downtown Plan on April 23, 2001; and
WHEREAS, after proper notice published in the City's official newspaper
at least ten (10) days prior to the date of hearing, the Auburn City Council held
a public hearing on the Auburn Downtown Plan on May 7, 2001; and
WHEREAS, the Auburn City Council further considered, revised and
then voted on the Auburn Downtown Plan and directed staff to prepare an
Ordinance approving the Auburn Downtown Plan; and,
WHEREAS, adoption of the Auburn Downtown Plan will serve as a
subarea plan amendment to the City of Auburn Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, the GMA identifies the initial adoption of a subarea plan as
a comprehensive plan amendment that may be considered more frequently
than once per year by the governing body of a city (RCW 36.70A.130 (2)(a)(i));
and
Ordinance No. 5549
May 21,2001
Page 3
WHEREAS, the Auburn Downtown Plan has been developed with
considerable public participation opportunities including, but not limited to, a
visioning process that included a design charrette, a task force comprised of a
wide representation of interests, a public open house, informational
presentations to various civic and business groups and Planning Commission
and City Council public hearings; and
WHEREAS, the Auburn Downtown Plan will serve the public interest by
promoting downtown redevelopment while also mitigating impacts; and
WHEREAS, the Auburn Downtown Plan is consistent with the regional
land use and transportation vision expressed in Vision 2020 and with the King
County Countywide Planning Policies by encouraging mixed-use, pedestrian
friendly, high quality development in proximity to transit stations;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUBURN,
WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Adoption. The Auburn Downtown Plan is comprised of the
following documents: (1) "Auburn Downtown Plan/Draft EIS" dated December
7, 2000, (2) "Auburn Downtown Plan/Draft EIS Appendices" dated December 7,
2000, (3)"Auburn Downtown Plan/Final EIS" dated April 2001 and (4)
"Approved Plan Revisions" dated May 21, 2001 all of which are marked as
"Exhibit A" with the original ordinance and on file with the Auburn City Clerk and
are hereby adopted and approved by this reference as if fully set forth herein as
a subarea plan amendment to the City of Auburn Comprehensive Plan. It is
herewith directed that all of the documents listed which comprise the Auburn
Downtown Plan be available at the City Clerk's Office for public inspection. It is
further directed that Planning Department staff incorporate the Approved Plan
Revisions dated May 21, 2001 into the appropriate documents numbered (1),
Ordinance No. 5549
May 21, 2001
Page 4
(2) and (3) above and that documents incorporating such revisions be made
available at the City Clerk's office for public inspection.
Section 2. Comprehensive Plan Amended. This subarea plan
amendment as approved herein modifies the Comprehensive Plan adopted on
August 18, 1986 by Resolution 1703, as amended on April 17, 1995 by
Resolution No. 2635 to comply with the Washington State Growth Management
Act, and as reaffirmed by Ordinance No. 4788 adopted on September 5, 1995.
Section 3. Substantive Authority under SEPA. The Auburn Downtown
Plan is herewith designated as a basis for the exercise of substantive authority
under the Washington State Environmental Policy Act by the City's responsible
environmental official in accordance with R.C.W. 43.21 C.060.
Section 4. Constitutionality or Invaliditv. If any section, subsection,
sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance or the subarea plan
adopted herein, is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any Court
of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and
independent provision, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions thereof.
Section 5. Implementation. The Mayor is hereby authorized to
implement such administrative procedures as may be necessary to carry out
the directions of this legislation.
Section 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in
force five days from and after its passage, approval, and publication as
provided by law.
Ordinance No. 5549
May 21,2001
Page 5
INTRODUCED: z,~a~f 21, 2001
PASSED: lvlay 21, 2001
APPROVED: z,~,a~z 2:]., 2001
CHARLES A. BOOTH
MAYOR
ATTEST:
Daskam~~''
City Clerk
Michael J. Reynolds,
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 5549
May 21,2001
Page 6
APPROVED PLAN
REVISIONS
May 21, 2001
Ordinance 5549
Exhibit A (4)
Planning Commission Recommended
Amendments/Revisions Approved by City Council
Bold/Underline = Recommended New Language
?9#ikethi:96qh = Recommended Deleted Language
1 Amendment 1 (Pape 32)
Figure 2 is incorrect, should be replaced with an "Existing Zoning" map.
2 Amendment 2 (Pape 34)
Add to Section 1.3.2, Existing Assets
"Just off Main Street, near the core of Downtown, are a number of other assets
that will play a key role in Auburn's future....The Transit Center and A Street SW
are recent major assets to the core area of downtown. A Street SW, the SR18/C
Street Interchange and the 3rd Street Grade Separation project will improve
access to downtown and alleviate traffic congestion that results from increased
rail activity. Finally, Qwest has a central office facility (where calls are
switched) located in downtown Auburn at Second Street SW and Division
Street Certain types of businesses including Class A Office Space,
particularly benefit from access to high speed communications
infrastructure frequently associated with these facilities. Generally, closer
proximity to a central office facility often means higher quality
telecommunication services."
3 Amendment 3 (Page 59)
Add the following text to the end of "C. Improve Key Streets"
"Finally, there are also key streets related to transit The development of
the commuter rail station and the rail station's transit center will
necessitate shifting some transit service onto different streets through
rhe --? commuter rail station include 2nd Street SW 15 Street NW and
Streets NW/SW."
4 Amendment 4 (Pape 68)
Add to Policy 4-1
"Policy 4-1 Coordinate utilities with development
Coordinate water service, sanitary sewer and storm water facilities, electrical and
fiber optic facilities with increasing development Downtown. Pursue
opportunities to develop technologically advanced high speed
communication infrastructure that supports or could attract desired
businesses to Downtown Auburn."
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
5. Amendment 5 (Pape 75)
Add a new Policy 8-3 as follows:
"Policy 8-3 Public Transit
Street and streetscape standards for the Downtown shall take into
consideration public transit routes and infrastructure needs of public
transit providers."
6. Amendment 6 (Pape 101)
Add the following text to Figure 16 - Proposed Zoning
"NOTE: This map reflects possible zoning changes to implement certain
Downtown Plan concepts The zoning boundaries that may be adopted are
still subject to the public hearing process and may differ from the
boundaries proposed and depicted in this Figure."
7. Amendment 7 (Pape 102)
Under "M. Regulatory Revisions, add a new Policy 22-3 as follows,
"Policy 22-3 Respond to business trends
Regulatory revisions shall creatively respond to business industry trends
that enable desirable downtown businesses to be competitive and/or
encourage new businesses to locate downtown. This includes, for
example, allowing automobile fuel facilities as an accessory use to large
grocery stores Where appropriate development regulations shall
incorporate design and/or performance standards to ensure consistency of
such uses with the principles of this Plan In instances where design
and/or performance standards cannot ensure consistency with this Plan's
principles, the regulatory revision shall not be made."
NOTE: Part of this amendment is superseded by the PCD Committee's amendment to the last
sentence of this policy. See Council Committee/Council revision #1 also attached to this
Ordinance as part of Exhibit "A".
8. Amendment 8 (Page 144)
Add text as follows to the discussion of Class A office space:
"Class A Office Development
The Downtown Market Analysis identified demand for Class A office space in
downtown. Like the hotel, sites on the west side of Auburn Way near the
intersection with Cross Street are appropriate and easy to access. Many other
sites within the downtown core would also be viable Class A Office development
sites. Class A office development typically has technological
communication needs The presence of the Qwest central office in this
area could be used to help market and attract Class A Office development."
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
9 Amendment 9 (Page 162)
Add, to the end of the discussion on "Ongoing Review", the following:
"Ongoing Review
Because conditions change, the plan and implementation strategy will benefit
from establishment of a formal on-going review process.... Such a review is
best carried out under the umbrella organization - indeed, it is a task inherent in
its coordinating role.
To ensure that the Plan stays current and relevant City staff will, on an
annual basis report to the Planning Commission on progress made toward
implementing the Downtown Plan Appropriate stakeholders should be
invited to the meeting when the annual report is given for their input and to
determine if amendments to the Downtown Plan might be warranted."
10 Amendment 10 (Page 168)
Add to the discussion under "Downtown Image Program" as follows:
"This element will propose a multi-pronged Public Relations program which will
be used to recruit investment and improve the image of downtown as a place to
visit, shop, live and work. A consultant would prepare the program for the city,
Chamber and ADA to implement.
An image program should use a variety of media to convey information on
downtown to interested parties This might include brochures, websites,
press releases, presentation materials for speaking engagements, and city
and downtown gateways Incentives to developers or property owners to
make building improvements or create new, high quality developments
should be clearly described."
Benefits
• Creates positive investment climate...
etc.
Steps Required
1. Determine roles...
2. Determine funding...
3. Hire consultant to design program
4. Identifv development incentives created or encouraged by the Downtown
Plan Select media to relay this information to potential developers and
property owners.
5. Implement
11 Amendment 11 (Page 170)
Add reference to public transit infrastructure needs in the "Downtown Street Design Standards"
discussion as follows:
"Downtown Street Design Standards
Approved City Council Revisions 3
May 21, 2001
Downtown street design standards should be revised to ensure that future street
improvements, both publicly and privately funded will implement the Downtown Plan and
Urban Design Vision.
Element of street design standards include:
• Sidewalk corridors, including furnishings
• Curbs/curb ramps
• Driveways
• Driveway apron design
• Street corner specifications
Public transit infrastructure needs
• Other street development standards
12 Amendment 12 (Pape 172)
In the introduction section of the Downtown Street Lighting Program, add a new sentence at the
end of the third paragraph:
"...and is 12 to 14 feet in height. Maintenance requirements of lighting
should be evaluated before selection."
In the "Coordination" section, add a new sentence at the end of the paragraph:
"...and in all parking lots. Maintenance needs and staff support should be
coordinated with the Public Works Maintenance and Operations staff
during program design and installation."
13. Amendment 13 (Page 173)
Add the following to the Downtown Tree Planting discussion,
"DOWNTOWN TREE PLANTING PROGRAM
Street trees are another key element which will improve the overall character of
downtown Auburn. A repeating vertical element that helps to define the street,
trees also increase property values while adding to the attractiveness of
businesses and adding to the overall cohesiveness of the downtown
streetscapes.
A comprehensive tree planting program should include extensive planning
and preparation to minimize long term costs and maintenance and to
maximize benefit to the downtown Specific attention should be given to
selecting low-maintenance species; identifying situations where -ground
covers, vines or shrubs are more appropriate than trees; and using design
and construction techniques that provide a healthy environment for root
growth, thus reducing the chance for damage to surrounding hard
surfaces."
Coordination
A street tree program should be implemented in coordination with the street
lighting program, street design standards and streetscape improvements. A
Approved City Council Revisions 4
May 21, 2001
street tree program would be implemented over time in coordination with public
and private development.
Steps Required
1. Research issues of cost and maintenance associated with a street tree
program.
2 Identifv potential locations for trees and/or other vegetation
4 3. Prepare street tree plan
2- 4. Planning Commission review and recommendations
3- 5. City Council review and adoption
4. 6. Implement in phases over time"
14 Amendment 14 (Page 181)
Revise language in the first paragraph on "A Street NW and SW " as follows,
"A STREET NW AND SW
A Street SW/NW is planned to be improved as a minor arterial in the City of
Auburn Transportation Plan, with a new extension between 3`d NW and 14th NW,
thus linking downtown with the northern retail area of the City. Extension of A
Street NW will rovide a much-needed continuous north/south route
through downtown and relieve some traffic pressures on C Street NW,
Auburn Avenue and Auburn Way North. From Main Street to 3rd Street NW
the existing A Street NW will be upgraded. The street is narrow in this
older neighborhood location and design and reconstruction work should
be sensitive to the adjacent properties.
44 additiGR, A Street SW will be the front door to the Transit Center...
Improvements north of Main Street, the loop portion south of 3`d Street SW, and
pedestrian amenities have not yet been funded. The Portion of A Street from
Main Street to 14th Street NE is included on the 2001-2006 Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP) Funding and construction of this street will be
key to providing access to redeveloping parts of downtown.
Estimated Cost
A St SW - construction complete Main to 3rd Street SW
except for landscape and pedestrian amenities - $150.000."
A St NW, West Main to 10th Street NW - $4.2 million"
(NOTE: This amendment partially superseded by staff amendment #33 also attached to
this Ordinance as part of Exhibit 'W" )
15 Amendment 15 (Throughout Entire Document)
The Planning Commission authorized staff to make corrections to miscellaneous typographical
and related errors throughout the document.
Approved City Council Revisions 5
May 21, 2001
T - _ _ - _ --
Staff Recommended Amendments/Revisions
Approved by City Council
Unless otherwise noted, new text is bold/underlined; Deleted text is .
1. Amendment 1 (Pape 1)
In the "Executive Summary", add a new introductory paragraph and heading as follows:
"Executive Summary
Downtown is the physical and cultural heart of the Auburn community. Like many
American cities downtown Auburn began to decline in the 1960's and 70's. In the
1990's business owners, property owners and the City of Auburn began to take
action to turn around this decline with a series of physical improvements. This Plan
seeks to continue the revitalization of downtown Auburn through an increasingly
comprehensive approach.
Why was a new Downtown Plan Needed?
The Auburn Downtown Plan was initiated in response...
2. Amendment 2 (Page 4)
Under "What are the conclusions of the Downtown Plan?" replace text in the existing paragraph with the
following,
"The Downtown Plan
forecasts a bright and hopeful future for downtown Auburn if assets are capitalized
upon and challenges are addressed Some of the manor findings of the Plan are
summarized in the paragraphs below."
3. Amendment 3 (Page 33)
After the paragraph describing the P-1 zone, add a new paragraph describing the "I" (Institutional) zone
as follows:
"I The Institutional Use District is intended to provide an area for educational,
governmental, theological, recreational, cultural and other public and quasi-public
uses."
4. Amendment 4 (Pape 37)
Add the following to Figure 4,
• A barrier marking to A Street SE, south of Main Street
• A note and arrow to BNSF north/south line, stating
"BNSF expecting significant increases in train traffic"
5. Amendment 5 (Pape 42)
Modify paragraph 2 as follows,
"The freeway and arterial road system had supplanted the rail system as a means of
moving freight and people around the region. As population and vehicular traffic
increased in the latter part of the 20th century, so did freight train traffic. !RAwbUFR
+Increasing traffic of all kinds has contributed to
blocking problems around the railroad tracks, SR 18 and several at-grade crossings in
Downtown."
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
6. Amendment 6 (Pape 50)
Under "Historic Resources in Downtown Auburn", revise last paragraph as follows,
"This Plan groups historic buildings into three categories:
1. Historic Landmarks - These are buildings that are officially recognized and protected as
Auburn Landmarks. Buildings that receive Landmark status are eligible for several
financial benefit programs. They also must undergo design review for approval of
any proposed changes to the exterior of the building, to ensure that significant
historical features are retained. There are two designated landmarks..."
7. Amendment 7 (Pape 59)
In the second paragraph from the bottom, 2nd sentence and new 3rd sentence, revise to,
"...by train traffic. Previous studies have identified 3rd Street SW as the best location to
provide a grade separated street that will serve the greatest number of vehicles. This
project is under construction and scheduled for completion in 2002. Main Street..."
8. Amendment 8 (Pape 60)
Under F, "Improve Business and Development Image", the paragraph is truncated and should state,
"...The program will need to be created and successfully marketed by a coalition of the
City, Auburn Downtown Association and Chamber of Commerce to achieve the
desired quality of implementation."
9. Amendment 9 (Pape 61)
After the first paragraph under 1.4.2 Recommended Policies and Actions", add a new second paragraph
as follows,
"Illustrations of some of these concepts are shown on the following panes. Figure 9,
Summary of Recommended Actions, illustrates physical improvements that are
suggested for both public and private sector action. Figure 10 presents a Lona
Range Vision for downtown Auburn. Figure 10 depicts what Auburn might look like
in 20 years, if many of the recommended actions are accomplished. It is important
to note that this graphic doesn't imply specific development plans for any particular
property, but is conceptual in nature only."
10. Amendment 10 (Page 63)
In Figure 9, "Summary of Recommended Actions", make the following revisions,
¦ Remove the "Improve/Intensify Existing Use/Buildings" symbol from the Cavanaugh
Block and relocate it to the block across Main Street from City Hall (to the south).
11. Amendment 11 (Pape 67)
On the" Long Range Vision" Map, make the following revisions:
• List the Figure Number "Figure 10"
• Identify J.C. Penney building as a catalyst project
• Remove mid-block pedestrian crossing on A Street between Cavanaughs and Rainbow Cafe.
• Show gateways at A Street SE/Railroad Crossing and Auburn Ave/3rd St. NE
12. Amendment 12 (Page 70)
In Policy 5-1, "Level of Service in Downtown", add text in paragraph to read as follows:
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
"The overall Level of Service in Downtown Auburn can be reduced to an average LOS of
"E," except along the corridors of Auburn Way, Auburn Avenue/A Street SE and C Street
NW, which must be maintained at the current City of Auburn LOS standard..."
13. Amendment 13 (Page 70)
In Policy 5-2, "Through traffic", revise paragraph 2 as follows,
"The City's standard Traffic Mitigation Program is satisfied by the analysis provided in this
Plan. The analysis demonstrates that development anticipated in the Plan can be safely
accommodated. Downtown's traditional clustering of businesses, excellent
pedestrian access and high volume of transit service will result in fewer auto trips.
Within downtown visitors or employees can park in one location and make multiple
stops on foot. _De_;NAW_;.AVA or-, also unique that it well have diFeGt aGGE-966, tA- the best tFaRGit
h P_FR the nemmuRity and- thAt many of the auto.---
MANIA tFiPS iRtG the
ese
are-
14. Amendment 14 (Pape 72)
In Policy 6-1, "Public Funding", delete # 3 from the list of projects (it is outside of study area), as
follows,
V3- A Street AI\A/ from 9 Gth Street NAN to 10 Street AI\AP'
Also, revise #18 to state,
"A Street NW - West Main Street to 3rd Street NW (this portion of the project
is within the Downtown Plan Study Area)"
15. Amendment 15 (Pape 73)
Under section E.1, "Downtown Circulation", revise the 2nd sentence to read:
"...street circulation pattern and the functional classifications are expected to remain as
they are in the 1997 Transportation Plan. Auburn Way is the
arterial iR Downtewn Aabum, and Auburn Avenue/A Street R-€, 4t'Sifee4S;? 2??tFeet
only principal arterial within the
Downtown Plan study area, although C Street SW and A Street SE transition from
minor to principal arterials at the southern edge of the study area. Other minor
arterials include Auburn Avenue 4th Street SE 3rd Street NW C Street NW Cross
Street, 3rd Street SE and Main Street. A Street NW/SW is a future minor arterial."
16. Amendment 16 (Pape 75)
Under Policy 8-1, "Pedestrian Access", revise the policy to state,
"Pedestrian access shall be a high priority in the development of street and streetscape
design standards in Downtown. High pedestrian activity locations in and around
downtown should be identified and evaluated. Engineerinq studies should be
conducted to determine appropriate measures for pedestrian improvements. T is
e, ...r
may at tome . fi ^ the free FneveFAeRt f h „
17. Amendment 17 (Page 98)
Revise the 15 sentence in the 3rd paragraph to state:
"A Comprehensive Drainage Plan for the entire city was being researched and prepared
during the same period as GGRGUFFently the Downtown Plan. The Drainage Plan...".
Also, after the 2nd sentence in the 3rd paragraph add a new sentence as follows,
Approved City Council Revisions 3
May 21, 2001
"...identifies three drainage sub-basins within the Downtown Plan study area. These
drainage areas are illustrated in Figure 15. In the westernmost...
18. Amendment 18 (Pagel 01)
In Figure 16, "Proposed Zoning"
• Delete the reference to "Expand C3 District/Rezone from M1/M2 to C3"
NOTE: This amendment responds to February 9, 2001 letter from Don Small and Sons.
19. Amendment 19 (Page 129 and 130)
In keeping with City Council year 2000 Comprehensive Plan map amendments revise Figure 17 and all of
the maps in Section 1.5 - "Downtown Plan Districts" as follows,
¦ To reflect that the West Main Residential District (north of West Main) excludes the Hugh
McNiven property and should include it as part of the "Industrial" district.
¦ The area north of West Main should be renamed to "West Main Residential-Office".
¦ The "West Main Residential" area south of West Main should identify properties fronting G
Street between 1St and 3rd streets SW as "Industrial".
Also, revise the paragraph on this page (129) as follows,
"The Downtown Plan study area is broken up into ten districts based upon land use
patterns and defining characteristics. Four residential districts (one of which is planned
for Residential-Office use), two industrial districts..."
Also, in Table D at the top of page 130, add for "Recommended Land Use" the following,
"Residential, Residential/Office"
20. Amendment 20 (Page 138)
In the continued paragraph at the top of the page, revise the last sentence as follows,
"If the building is designated as an Auburn Historic Landmark, it would qualify for
restoration under the more flexible Washington Historic Building Code, if adopted by
the City .
21. Amendment 21 (Pape 153)
Under the fourth paragraph under Future Land Use/Character,
"...The potential also exists to expand medical uses. The intersection of 3rd Street NW
and A Street NW should be improved as a downtown gateway. Comprehensive Plan
map and zoning map amendments for this area should be considered, especially
given the planned extension of A Street NW and the identification of A Street NW
and 3 Street NW as a gateway...."
22. Amendment 22 (Pape 155)
In the continued paragraph at the top of Page 155, delete a sentence as follows,
"...Properties on the north and south sides of the street are identified as the best locations
for both the hotel/conference center project and for the development of Class A office
Fn
project. ,-.1A/hile ress Street 06 ? ideptiffe to ho inanreaed ??n in the f i tyr f A .,ubU,n
? ?d ???-?-
TFaRspeFtat1en Plan the pFejeGt iC net „et f6lRded. It will be important to improve..."
23. Amendment 23 (Page 156)
In the first sentence under "Future Land Uses/Character", revise to read,
Approved City Council Revisions 4
May 21, 2001
"The residential neighborhoods are planned to remain in residential use, although the
West Main Residential District north of West Main Street is planned for residential-
office use. Design standards will help protect..."
24. Amendment 24 (Page 158)
Add to the end of the paragraph under "Future Use/Character", as follows
This could serve as a transition between the commercial and mixed use character of
the Downtown Core, and the industrial areas to the west and north. Comprehensive Plan
and/or zoning map amendments to implement these objectives might be appropriate
for this area. "
25. Amendment 25 (Page 163)
In section 1.6.2 "Implementation Actions", revise the first paragraph to state,
"The following section identifies all of the Plan implementation actions as a whole, by
priority, and with a detailed description of each action. Actions are described by category:
Policies,
Regulations, Programs; Transportation/Street Improvements; Public Facilities; and
Public and Private Catalyst Projects. This represents a range of opportunities... .
Also, in Table E, delete the following from the table since they are not discussed as implementation
strategies in this section:
26. Amendment 26 (Pape 166)
Revise the title of this implementation strategy to read:
"Sign Code Revisions/Downtown Information Signage Program"
Change "Estimated Cost" to:
"Estimated Cost
Code Revisions: Staff time, Planning and Public Works Departments
Signage Program: $50,000+
27. Amendment 27 (Page 167)
Under implementation strategy titled "Facade Improvement Program", revise the 3rd paragraph to state:
"The Cityt
business organizations and financial institutions work together to establish a
facade improvement program The financial institutions provide low-interest loans
for qualifying facade and maintenance improvements. The maximum loan amount..."
28. Amendment 28 (Page 170)
Under the implementation strategy entitled "Downtown Street Design Standards, revise "Steps Required"
to read,
1. Develop detailed downtown street standards, based on the guidance provided in this
Plan in Section 1.4.2, Section E "Street Improvements/Transportation Policies" +e
Approved City Council Revisions 5
May 21, 2001
29. Amendment 29 (Page 177)
In the implementation strategy entitled "Downtown Parking Strategy", insert a new sentence in the 3rd
paragraph as follows,
"Additionally, public private partnerships could be formed to develop parking structures.
Potential locations for shared parking structures have been identified in this plan.
Acquiring property, designing and constructing..."
On the same page under "Steps Required", add to end of #4
"4. Investigate funding sources, such as Local Improvement Districts (LIDs); etG- and
management approaches, such as a parking authority"
30. Amendment 30 (After Page 177)
As a new "Policies, Regulations, and Programs" implementation strategy, insert the following,
Category Historic Preservation
Policies, Regulations Preservation of historic buildings in downtown will help to maintain its
and Programs unique scale and character. To accomplish this, historic preservation
planning should include completion of a downtown building inventory and
Responsibility prioritization for landmarking or restoration; inclusion of historic data in the
City of Auburn permit tracking database; providing information to property owners about
financial incentives and technical assistance for restoring their properties;
and developing design standards that encourage restoration of original
Duration facades and that protect historic buildings and residential neighborhoods
Plan: 2 years from inappropriate renovations or construction. Coordinating these efforts
Implementation: On- with economic development programs will improve their efficacy.
going Preparation of a historic preservation plan would pull all the many efforts
together.
Estimated Cost
Staff time Benefits
Plan: $50,000 • Preserves history of Auburn
• Maintains unique character of downtown
• Improves condition of existing buildings and housing stock
Problems Solved
• Careful evaluation saves valuable historic buildings that might otherwise
be destroyed
• Poor maintenance or inappropriate building changes are corrected
Coordination
Coordination with economic development efforts is vital. The inventory
and evaluation, design standards, fagade improvement program and
permit tracking steps should be coordinated with the new wave of
downtown development.
Approved City Council Revisions 6 s?;
May 21, 2001 t ".
(continued)
Steps Required
1. Complete inventory of historic buildings. Identify priority properties to
become Auburn Historic Landmarks.
2. Provide inventory and technical assistance information to property
owners
3. Prepare design standards
4. Adopt state historic building code, and/or amend existing code to allow
increased flexibility for restoration of historic buildings
5. Input historic information into permit tracking system and SEPA
process
6. Prepare comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan
31. Amendment 31 (Pape 178)
Under the implementation strategy entitled "Auburn Way Street Improvements", add as a new bullet
under "Benefits/Problems Solved", the following,
• Will contribute to making Auburn Way "feel" like part of downtown
32. Amendment 32 (Page 180)
Revise the description of the "Cross Street Improvements" as follows.
"...as the best locations for a hotel/conference center and a Class A office project.
Resemrriended improvements te--SFG66 Street inGki a se)ested- aGGesG MaRagement
The City recently received Transportation Improvement Board funding for
improvements to Cross Street. The 3r Street/Cross Street project will extend from
Division Street to Auburn Way South. It adds capacity by widening the link from
the 3rd Street Grade Separation project to Auburn Way to five lanes and includes
signal modifications. Design consideration should be given to access
management and improving the pedestrian environment through pedestrian
friendly features such as pedestrian lighting and intersection pavement treatment."
Under implementation strategy "Cross Street Improvements", revise the "Estimated Cost" as follows,
"Estimated Cost
$450,008 "Funded at $1.6 million"
33. Amendment 33 (Pape 181)
Amend the Planning Commission recommended amendments (see Amendment #14 on Planning
Commission list) to the "Estimated Cost" section of the "A Street NW and SW' Implementation Strategy
as follows (shaded area = proposed staff revisions to Planning Commission recommendation).
"Estimated Cost
A St. SW - construction complete Main to 3rd Street SW
Approved City Council Revisions 7
May 21, 2001
except for A St. SW and 2"d St. SW traffic signal
t+" - $150.000."
34. Amendment 34 (Pape 186)
Under the implementation strategy entitled "Downtown Gateways Project", add a new first sentence in the
discussion on "Coordination" as follows:
"Downtown gateway concepts should be more fully developed during preparation
of a citywide gateways program. The downtown gateways project would be..."
Then under "Steps Required", revise existing step 2 and add a new step 3 as follows,
1. City Council prioritizes and allocates budget
2. Prepare citywide dewntGWR gateway program
3. Prioritize downtown gateways and develop concepts for each
4. Design individual gateway projects
45. Pursue funding opportunities
35. Amendment 35 (Pape 189)
Under the implementation strategy entitled "Housing Near Transit Center", revise the second bullet under
"Benefits/Problem Solved", as follows,
Esti ate ;nyestme„+'^ Meets market demand for downtown housing"
36. Amendment 36 (Page 191)
Under the implementation strategy entitled "Hotel/Conference Center", "Steps Required", add a new step
2 and renumber others as follows:
1. Identify potential users and developers and their needs
2. Explore ways to involve existing property owners and aggregate parcels
.23. Prepare project package which illustrates site potential, identifies constraints and
local incentives
34. Circulate project package among potential investors"
37. Amendment 37 (Pape 196)
Under "Revitalize Block Across from City Hall" at the end of the introductory paragraph add a new
sentence as follows:
"The block across Main Street from City Hall should be upgraded either by fagade
improvements and... The proximity of this block to the Transit Center will make it a
highly desirable location for transit-oriented development Such an upgrade..."
Then, under "Steps Required" - Step 3 - delete "census and" as follows,
"3. Circulate project package among potential sensw6and investors"
38. Amendment 38 (Page 212)
Delete the first sentence under "Noise" as follows,
39. Amendment 39 (Pages 237 and 240)
On page 237 first paragraph, under "Existing Zoning Designations", add the "I" (Institutional) zone in the
listing of zones,
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
Also, on page 240, after the paragraph describing the P-1 zone, add a new paragraph describing the "I"
(Institutional) zone as follows:
"I The Institutional Use District is located at the Performing Arts Center/Auburn
High School. This zone is intended to provide an area for educational
governmental, theological recreational cultural and other public and quasi public
uses."
40. Amendment 40 (Pape 2581
In Table I, "City of Auburn Node Capacities of Downtown Intersections", do the following,
¦ Delete reference to A Street SW@ 5th Street NW (intersection doesn't exist)
¦ Delete reference to Auburn Way @ 5th Street NE (not a significant intersection)
41. Amendment 41 (Pape 262)
In the discussion of the "Downtown Plan" Alternative under Roadways/Traffic/Level of Service, add the
following to paragraph 3 (middle of paragraph),
"Essentially the "Downtown Plan" alternative provides for an overall LOS in the
Downtown area that can operate at an average LOS of "E" and still be acceptable.
Exceptions to the LOS of "E" are Auburn Way Auburn Avenue/A Street SE and C
Street NW, which must be maintained at the current LOS of "D In part, this-is-OR
fesege+tiee allowing a LOS of "E" recognizes that density is desirable and related
congestion is an acceptable impact to achieve a vibrant downtown."
APPENDICES
42. Amendment 42 (Appendix IV)
In the "Introduction" section, revise the 2nd paragraph as follows,
„
AppeRdix. The Downtown Plan document lists the buildings officially designated as
Auburn Landmarks and those that are considered Potential Landmarks. In
addition to the previous two categories this Appendix also lists Historically
Significant Buildings. These are buildings more than 50 years old that contribute
to the character of downtown but do not appear to have the architectural or social
significance of the previous categories
The information presented is a summary only, and more detailed evaluation of
many of these properties would be warranted if exterior changes or demolition is
proposed."
43. Amendment 43 (1st page of table):
In the left hand column, halfway down page, revise the heading of "Historic Properties of Interest" to
"Historically Significant Buildings" to be consistent with the Downtown Plan terminology.
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
Approved Amendments/Revisions Initiated by Council
Committees/City Council
Unless otherwise noted: New text is bold/unde rUned, • Deleted text is 646+sl e 94.
1 Amendment 1 (Page 102)
The Planning and Community Development Committee requested that a new policy (to
be added as Policy 22-3 on Page 102 under M. Regulatory Revisions") recommended
by the Planning Commission be revised. The PCD recommended deleting the last
sentence of the Planning Commission's recommended policy and replacing it with
language (shaded) to make it more easily understood.
"Policy 22-3 Respond to Business Trends
Regulatory revisions shall creatively respond to business industry trends
that enable desirable downtown businesses to be competitive and/or
encourage new businesses to locate downtown. This includes, for
example allowing automobile fuel facilities as an accessory use to large
grocery stores Where appropriate development regulations shall
incorporate design and/or performance standards to ensure consistency of
such uses with the principles of this Plan
?o the 'e ,! The City shall not
approve code amendments that are inconsistent with the policies
and principles of this Plan."
2 Amendment 2 (Page 341
Add a new paragraph to the end of Section 1.3.2, "Existing Assets" recognizing
downtown's role in hosting community events,
"Finally another Downtown Auburn asset is its traditional site and
location for certain long standing community events and activities.
This includes, for instance, the Auburn Good OI' Days celebration
and the Veteran's Day Parade As such, Downtown Auburn is seen a
focal point for events that enhance and build on community and civic
spirit and pride, and serves to bring the community closer together."
3 Amendment 3 (Various Pages)
On various figures within the Downtown Plan document (such as Figure 9 and
Figure 10), the gateway on West Main Street will be relocated nearer to the
Interurban Trail and the gateway along East Main Street will be moved closer to
the Performing Arts Center.
Consistent with this recommendation, in the implementation strategy "Downtown
Gateways Project" on Page 186, revise the text to state,
Approved City Council Revisions
May 21, 2001
"...Gateway treatment is needed at the following locations:
East Main Street and €-StFeet the Performing Arts Center, Auburn Way
at 0 Street NE.... West Main Street at
the Interurban Trail, and the SR 18/C Street Interchange."
4. Amendment 4 (Page 100)
Revise Policy 21-3, "Improvements necessitating stormwater upgrades" to include a five
year sunset clause,
"Policy 21-3 Improvements necessitating stormwater upgrades
Improvements to properties within the Downtown Plan Study Area which
exceed 50% of the assessed value whether wholly exterior or a
combination of interior and exterior will not necessitate upgrading of the
storm drainage facilities to current city standards when there is no change
in the amount of impervious surface. The City will enact changes to its
regulations to implement this requirement, with the intent that such
changes sunset after a five year period unless the City Council elects
to extend it."
5. Amendment 5 (Page 72)
Revise Policy 6-2 "Traffic impact fees" to include a five year sunset clause.
"Policy 6-2 Traffic Impact Fees
If the City adopts a traffic impact fee system, consideration should be
given to waiving the fee within downtown, with the intent that the waiver
sunset after a five year period unless the City Council elects to
extend it. The waiver would be predicated upon all policies under Goals
5 and 6."
6. Amendment 6 (Page 66)
Delete the third sentence in the paragraph at the top of the page as follows,
"The urban design vision for downtown identified two to four stories as
appropriate for downtown with stepped back upper floors above three
stories. These heights would allow much greater building volume than
currently exists downtown. TheFefWe,
Further discussion with the Downtown Plan Task Force... ".
Also, on the same page, revise Policy 3-1 "Building height and density" to delete the
reference to a minimum building height requirement.
"Policy 3-1 Building Height and Density
To provide more options and to support downtown development, there
shall be no maximum building height requirement in the C-2 zone. Rather,
Approved City Council Revisions 2
May 21, 2001
the maximum building height shall be determined based on the applicant's
ability to satisfy performance and design standards that provide for an
appropriate sense of street level enclosure and sunlight penetration. Se
7. Amendment 7 (Page 115)
Revise Policy BD1.1, "Building Height" by deleting the reference to a minimum building
height,
"Buildings in the C-2 District may be constructed to a height equivalent to
the width of the abutting street right-of-way at the property line. Additional
building height may be allowed provided that the building steps back to
maintain a minimum 1:1 width to building height ratio. S ail 96 iR the
D*640e3+ e.hall be a miRiFR lm ^f tWO 6+^ri^6, ^r 24 feet ire heigh+, with a 6+r^^+
r
INK-It-h ta-building h8ightFatie R9t-gFeateFthan 2:1r: For the purposes of this
policy an alley shall not be considered a street."
8. Amendment 8 (Page 121)
Revise Policy BD2.1, "Building Height" by deleting the reference to a minimum building
height,
"Buildings in the C-2 District may be constructed to a height equivalent to
the width of the abutting street right-of-way at the property line. Additional
building height may be allowed provided that the building steps back to
maintain a minimum 1:1 width to building height ratio. Q61ildiRgG iR the G 2
^+ OR heigh+-t R' ???in+h a e.+re et.
gie.+ri^+ shall h^ a FROROFRa? f tWO °+V1^riG^7c+ OF 24 f^rG'C
..+.v a? ova shall u ? i ?n ?TT,?T-1'-TITr.1TITy T- ?JTI r. GC
WRIth tgbuilding height Fatie RG)t greateF than For the purposes of this
policy an alley shall not be considered a street."
9. Amendment 9 (Page 246)
Revise the 1St paragraph under the "Downtown Plan Alternative" heading by removing
a sentence referring to a minimum building height requirement as follows,
"...This includes maintaining a minimum 1:1 street width to building height
ratio to avoid a "Canyon" effect and to provide a sense of comfort for the
pedestrian by providing sunlight and views of the sky. PuFtheF, a t,:e 6ter}
na??r --buildiR9 height FegU+reFnent ism ^^ ed- Therefore, taller
buildings could result..."
Approved City Council Revisions 3
May 21, 2001