Ordinance No. 20421 - Laserfiche WebLink

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opportunities can be enhanced through the consolidation of the site, including the provisions of improved access for pedestrians and bicycles. As a result, the East 13th Avenue vacation (Ordinance B) will be in the public interest. Detailed findings to support these conclusions are provided below. Referral comments from Public Works staff and utility providers confirm that the East 13 th Avenue vacation (Ordinance B) will not impact services as all utilities, including stormwater, wastewater, water, electric, and natural gas lines, are proposed to remain. The City's Public Works Transportation and Engineering staff and the Fire Marshal's office have confirmed that the vacation would not compromise transportation or emergency access. A public utility and pedestrian access easement will be retained to ensure that access within the vacated portion of the East 13 th Avenue is maintained, as well as all existing utilities. The transportation system will be further improved given that any future development of this site will be subject to current Eugene Code Standards for commercial zones. The land use code includes development standards which require sidewalks or other forms of pedestrian connections, bicycle parking and the provision of pedestrian amenities. Likewise, vehicular access will be addressed to ensure safe and efficient circulation. Any larger development, such as the arena, would also need to comply with Traffic Impact Analysis application requirements which identify traffic impacts related to a development and required mitigation. Elimination of the requested portion of East 13th Avenue right of way (Ordinance B) would provide increased flexibility to develop the site in a coordinated and integrated manner. By enabling consolidation of this site, future redevelopment plans can address the variety of development concerns (both potential impacts and benefits) in a holistic manner. Given the limited value of the portion of East 13 th Avenue, its benefit to the public would be minimal in comparison to the benefits resulting from a comprehensive development plan for the entire site. The ability to re-use this property in a consolidated manner also enhances its economic viability given the additional flexibility afforded with the vacation of the street. As such, the vacation can help facilitate increased economic opportunities associated with its redevelopment. Any development of this consolidated, commercially zoned parcel, even in the absence of a basketball arena would result in substantial employment opportunities both for the construction trade as well as increased employment opportunities with the University. These additional employment and economic opportunities will result in substantial benefit to the community. Conclusion Based on the available information, evidence and testimony received, the City finds East 13th Avenue right of way vacation (Ordinance B) as proposed by the University of Oregon, will be in the public interest. Exhibit C: Findings