3B Public Hearing 2011 1121 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Landscaping/Fencing The amount and variation of landscaping being proposed by the applicant is a major asset of the project. Open space is approximately 0.65 acres, or 22.7% of the overall site. The preliminary landscape plan shows a variety of tree species, selected for various roles within the site as street trees, accent trees, visual buffer, etc. The tree palette is accompanied by a range of shrubs and groundcover. All landscaping is described as "conforming to the basic principles of natural systems "; however, staff notes that final landscape plans submitted in the future must also conform to the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) as embodied in the San Leandro Zoning Code Article 19. This will ensure that the final landscape plans include water budget analysis, hydrozoning of plant types and low -flow water usage, as well as certain elements of the Bay- Friendly Landscape protocol such as the use of recycled materials and plants with reduced pruning needs. As stated previously, the proposed site fencing is a high -grade masonry wall along the Washington Avenue frontage and decorative wood fencing along the south, east and north perimeter of the site. The masonry wall's stone veneer pilasters and wood -like finish will add a Craftsman -style architectural element to the main entry and street frontage. The proposed trash enclosures continue this architectural style with stone veneer and trellis elements to blend in with the proposed Craftsman building architecture. Staff has included a standard condition of approval requiring coordination with the Environmental Services Department and the local waste hauler for placement of appropriate trash and recycling containers. The number of four trash enclosures proposed exceeds the minimum required of three for the site. Staff supports approval of the Planned Development for the construction of the 66 -unit apartment development, subject to the recommended Conditions of Approval as this project provides: • Superior urban design in comparison with the typical development under the base Residential Multi- Family district; • Adequate provisions for utilities, services, and emergency vehicle access; • Site plan elements provide harmonious and orderly development that is compatible with its surroundings; • Buildings have adequate articulation, with appropriate window placement, use of detailing and changes in building planes to provide visual interest. The exterior materials, finishes, detailing, and colors are compatible with and /or superior to those of surrounding structures. Visually incompatible elements are fully screened from public view; • Landscaping complements the architectural design, with an appropriate balance of trees, shrubs and living ground covers, and provides adequate screening and shading of parking lots and driveways; • Detail features such as fences, walls, and lighting (with implementation of recommended Conditions of Approval Planning Commission Staff Report October 20, 2010 PLN2009 -00006 - 2450 Washington Apartments Page 8 of 11