Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutPEC100009Planning and Environmental Commisson ACTION FOR Department of Community Development W umr VA I 75 South Frontage Road, Vail, Colorado 81657 te1:970.479.2139 tax: 970.479.2452 COMUN"MAWMEW web: www.vailgay.com Project Name: LRMP Amendments Transit Impr PEC Number: PEC100009 Project Description: Participants: LIONSHEAD TRANSIT CENTER AND CONCERT HALL PLAZA BUS STOP REDEVELOPMENT: AMENDMENTS TO LIONSHEAD REDEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN OWNER VAIL COLORADO MUNICIPAL BLDG 03/02/2010 75 S FRONTAGE RD VAIL CO 81657 APPLICANT TOM BRAUN 03/02/2010 BRAUN ASSOCIATES 225 MAIN ST, SUITE G2 EDWARDS CO 81632 Project Address: 75 S FRONTAGE RD W VAIL Location: LIONSHEAD Legal Description: Lot: Block: Subdivision: R.O.W. Parcel Number: 2101 -064- 0000 -3 Comments: See conditions BOARD /STAFF ACTION Motion By: Kurz Action: APPROVED Second By: Cartin Vote: 6 -0-0 Date of Approval: 04 /12/2010 Conditions: Cond: 8 (PLAN): No changes to these plans may be made without the written consent of Town of Vail staff and /or the appropriate review committee(s). Planner: Warren Campbell PEC Fee Paid: $0.00 Molt 0 /) 'to No p + , . , p 0 ^0-AJ J �A t nGo� ?o rae C /AA e3 � y J tid , b � )e MEMORANDUM u 0te , -, �-0 TO: Vail Town Council FROM: Community Development Department DATE: May 4, 2010 SUBJECT: Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010, a resolution to amend Chapter 4, Recommendations — Overall Study Area and Chapter 5, Detailed Plan Recommendations, Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, pursuant to Section 2.8, Adoption and Amendment of the Master Plan, Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, to amend the recommendations for transportation improvements in Lionshead (generally located at the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop) and setting forth details in regard thereto. PURPOSE The purpose of this agenda item is to review and vote on Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010, is a resolution to amend Chapter 4, Recommendations — Overall Study Area and Chapter 5, Detailed Plan Recommendations, Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, pursuant to Section 2.8, Adoption and Amendment of the Master Plan, Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, to amend the recommendations for transportation improvements in Lionshead (generally located at the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop). On April 12, 2010, the Planning and Environmental Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval of the proposed amendments by a unanimous vote. II. DESCRIPTION OF THE REQUEST The applicant, Town of Vail, represented by Braun Associates is proposing to incorporate site specific recommendations for transit improvements at the Lionshead parking structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop into the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan through the deletion and addition of text and figures. The catalyst for the proposed amendments is the result of several decisions which were made with regard to the development of the North Day Lot solely with skier drop -off and employee housing. In 2008 and 2009 the Town participated in an exercise exploring the ability and costs of locating a fully functioning transit center on the North Day Lot in conjunction with Vail Resorts employee housing project. After an extensive process it was determined that the Town's finances were better focused on other opportunities with regard to transit improvements in Lionshead. The proposed text revisions include amendments to Chapters 4 and 5 of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan and are provided in Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 (Attachment A). Furthermore, multiple figures were amended to illustrate the proposed changes that are included in the text. Again you will see a portion of the deleted figure in the right hand column and the proposed revised figure in its place. The applicant's representative will be providing a power point presentation which will go through the proposed language and figure amendments. III. BACKGROUND Throughout 2009 and the early months of 2010 the Town of Vail Public Works Department has been working with a consultant team to identify the function and cost of various transit options in the vicinity of the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop. This team has been interacting with the public and Town Council in developing the options which the property owner, Town of Vail, wishes to pursue. The proposed text amendments are a result of this process. To affect the conceptual ideas generated through this process amendments are necessary tot eh Master Plan prior to the design of the actual solutions. IV. APPLICABLE PLANNING DOCUMENTS This section of the memorandum contains portion of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master which are pertinent to the application and proposed to be amended. Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan (in part) Chapter 2, Introduction 2.1 Purpose of the Master Plan "This master plan was initiated by the Town of Vail to encourage redevelopment and new development initiatives in the Lionshead study area. Both public and private interests have recognized that Lionshead today lacks the economic vitality of Vail and fails to offer a world class resort experience. Lionshead's economic potential has been inhibited by a number of recurrent themes: • Lack of growth in accommodation units ( "hot beds'); • Poor retail quality; • Deterioration of existing buildings; • Uninteresting and disconnected pedestrian environment; • Mediocre architectural character, and the • Absence of incentives for redevelopment. This master is a comprehensive guide for property owners proposing to undertake development or redevelopment of their properties and the municipal officials responsible for planning 2 public improvements. The plan outlines the Town's objectives and goals for the enhancement of Lionshead and proposes recommendation, incentives, and requirements for redevelopment and new development. " 2.2 Definition of a Master Plan In the development of the Lionshead Master Plan, the following definition has been used as the basis for this work: A master plan is a guide, a flexible framework for future action. It articulates a community's fundamental land use policies, principles, and goals in a broad and general way. It plans for the future physical development or redevelopment of an area of the community, including its functional and circulation systems and its public facilities. The land use policies in a master plan are generally implemented through zoning ordinances. Existing zoning and land use codes may be modified and new provisions enacted in order to conform to the master plan and carry out the plan's objectives. A master plan does not convey approval for particular development proposals or concepts, nor can it be implemented in a short time frame. After adoption of the Lionshead Master Plan, every development proposal will have to go through the applicable development review and approval process, with its attendant public notices and public hearings. A proposal's adherence to the policies contained in the adopted master plan will be one of the factors analyzed by staff, the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC), the Design Review Board (DRB), and the Town Council (as applicable) in determining whether to approve or disapprove the specific proposal. 2.3 Policy Objectives The Town Council adopted six policy objectives on November 4, 1996 to outline the important issues to be addressed in the master plan and to provide a policy framework for the master planning process. 2.3.1 Renewal and Redevelopment Lionshead can and should be renewed and redeveloped to become a warmer, more vibrant environment for guests and residents. Lionshead needs an appealing and coherent identity, a sense of place, a personality, a p.wrpose, and an improved aesthetic character. 2.3.2 Vitality and Amenities We must seize the opportunity to enhance guest experience and community interaction through expanded and additional activities and amenities such as performing arts venues, conference facilities, ice rinks, streetscape, parks and other recreational improvements. 2.3.3 Stronger Economic Base Through Increased Live Beds In order to enhance the vitality and viability of Vail, renewal and redevelopment in Lionshead must promote improved occupancy rates and the creation of additional bed base ( "live beds" or "warm beds') through new lodging products. 2.3.4 Improved Access and Circulation The flow of pedestrian, vehicular, bicycle and mass transit traffic must be improved within and through Lionshead. 2.3.5 Improved Infrastructure The infrastructure of Lionshead (streets, walkways, transportation systems, parking, utilities, loading and delivery systems, snow removal and storage capacity) and its public and private services must be upgraded to support redevelopment and revitalization efforts and to meet the service expectations of our guests and residents. V. CRITERIA AND FINDINGS Staff believes the proposed Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan amendments, are consistent with the Town's goals, policies and objectives for the reasons listed under each criteria below. 1. Conditions have changed: As discussed previously in this memorandum the catalyst for the proposed amendments is the result of not incorporating any transit functions on the North Day Lot with the exception of skier drop -off. The North Day Lot was identified as the recommended location for a full service transit center in Lionshead which would offer the same services found at the Vail Village Transit Center. For a variety of reasons a transit center was not pursued on the North Day Lot. The Town of Vail has recognized a need to make improvements to the transit system in an effort to better the customer experience in visiting Vail. Those improvements have been identified as occurring best at the Lionshead parking structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop. Improvements being explored by the Town include skier drop -off on the western end of the parking structure on the lowest deck, Eco bus stops and a shelter along the north side of the parking structure, and improvements to the current bus stops on the eastern edge of Lionshead Village and Concert Hall Plaza. 4 2. The plan is in error: VI. VII While the current Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan is not in error the decisions made with regard tot eh employee housing development on the North Day Lot has necessitated a need to reexamine the Lionshead Village area to determine the most feasible location for transit improvements within Lionshead as the need is still present. Staff believes the specific recommendations are vital to addressing the need for transit improvements in Lionshead. The proposal will succeed in offer a better experience to our customers. 3. The addition of the transit improvement amendments is in concert with the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan: The proposed amendments are implementing a significant element contained within the initially adopted Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. The decisions made with regard to the North Day Lot did not eliminate the functions proposed for the site. Staff believes the proposed amendments will provide clear and specific guidance for the addressing of transit needs in Lionshead. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL The Town Council shall approve, approve with modifications, or deny Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010. STAFF RECOMMENDATION The Planning and Environmental Commission recommends that the Vail Town Council approve Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010. Should the Town Council choose to approve this amendment request, the Community Development Department recommends the Council makes the following motion: "The Vail Town Council approves the amendments to the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan to incorporate recommendations for transportation improvements in Lionshead (generally located at the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop) and setting forth details in regard thereto. " Should the Town Council choose to approve this amendment request, the Community Development Department recommends the Council makes the following findings: "(1) That conditions have changed since the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan was adopted; and (2) That the incorporation of the proposed transit amendments into the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan are in concert with the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. " 5 VIII. ATTACHMENTS A. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 RESOLUTION NO. 13 Series of 2010 RESOLUTION NO. 13, SERIES OF 2010, A RESOLUTION TO AMEND CHAPTER 4, RECOMMENDATIONS - OVERALL STUDY AREA AND CHAPTER 5, DETAILED PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS, LIONSHEAD REDEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN, PUSUANT TO SECTION 2.8, ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF THE MASTER PLAN, LIONSHEAD REDEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN, TO AMEND THE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS IN LIONSHEAD (GENERALLY LOCATED AT THE LIONSHEAD PARKING STRUCTURE AND THE CONCERT HALL PLAZA BUS STOP) , AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN REGARD THERETO. WHEREAS, on December 15, 1998, the Vail Town Council adopted the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan; and WHEREAS, on April 6, 1999, the Vail Town Council adopted Ordinance 3, Series of 1999, which amended the Zoning Regulations and created Lionshead Mixed Use 1 and Lionshead Mixed Use 2 Districts; and WHEREAS, Section 2.8 of Master Plan outlines a procedure for amending the Master Plan; and WHEREAS, the Town of Vail Planning and Environmental Commission has held a public hearing on the proposed amendment on April 12, 2010, and has forwarded a recommendation of approval, of the amendment to the Town Council by a vote of 6 -0 -0; and WHEREAS, the purpose of this amendment is to provide detailed recommendations to improve transit functions and service in Lionshead and provide skier drop -off in close proximity to the portal; and WHEREAS, the Town Council finds that the proposed amendment improves and enhances the effectiveness of the Master Plan without negatively affecting the goals, objectives, and policies prescribed by the Master Plan. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO: The Town Council of the Town of Vail hereby amends the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan as follows: The amendments to the text of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan are indicated in bold italics(additions), and (deletions). Attachment A Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 1 (in part) CHAPTER 4 Recommendations — Overall Study Area This section of the master plan addresses issues that affect Lionshead as a whole. These issues — and recommendations to address them - should be considered in all planning and policy decisions as Lionshead redevelops. 4.1.5 West Lionshead - Residential/ Mixed -Use Hub West Lionshead includes the Vail Associates Service Yard, Holy Cross site, Vail Professional Building site, Cascade Crossings site, Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site and the Eagle River Water and Sanitation site. This area of Lionshead is generally under utilized and from an aesthetic standpoint is not in keeping with what the Town would like to see Lionshead become as it redevelops in the coming years. The Town of Vail does place a high value on maintaining the office and retail areas in West Lionshead and any redevelopment should reasonably increase the square footage of existing office and have "no net loss" of retail square footage in West Lionshead. With their recent acquisition of additional properties in this area, Vail Resorts has the opportunity to bring lift service to this part of Lionshead. Lift service brings with it great potential for the re- development of this area and in doing so expand all of Lionshead to the west with improved pedestrian connections, new retail and office activity and other improvements. While lift access will certainly energize this area during the winter months, attention should be given to creating a year - round attraction within this area of Lionshead (see detailed plan recommendations in Chapter 5) The master plan recommends that this hub become a residential/ mixed use area with an emphasis on meeting the needs of both the local community and our guests. Appropriate uses could include high density residential development, lodging, community and visitor based office and retail space, employee housing and parking, bus or transit functions and a ski lift connection to Vail Mountain. The catalyst for this mixed use hub is ski lift access to Vail Mountain. Consideration should be given to integrating employee housing into the redevelopment of West Lionshead in accordance with the Town's employee housing policies and regulations. To the extent possible development patterns in this area should reflect north -south orientation of buildings, visual penetrations to the mountain, and a pedestrian oriented environment. The degree of north -south building orientation may be difficult given the relatively narrow east -west orientation of this area. In addition, the introduction of ski lift access in this location creates a catalyst for are a structured public parking facility. All service and delivery demands created by development in this area shall be accommodated on -site. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 2 The site will continue to accommodate the existing and potentially expanded functions of the Vail sanitation plant. The mountain service yard could be reduced in size, as some functions can be moved to less central locations. It may also be possible to relocate the entire mountain service yard to a new location in the West Lionshead area which would allow for greater flexibility in the redevelopment of this site. However as the area develops it is critical that new uses be connected to the primary pedestrian corridors and that they be served by the Town of Vail in -town transit system. 4.3 Connections to the Natural Environment One of the outstanding characteristics of Vail Village is its spectacular visual connection to Vail Mountain, particularly the protected view corridors up Bridge Street from the village parking structure and toward the Gore Range from East Meadow Drive. Over the years the village has also strengthened its physical connections to the natural environment by improving Gye creek side parks and trails and by integrating landscape into the built environment at every opportunity. Lionshead has no similarly strong connection to the natural environment even though it is situated even closer to the base of the mountain. To remedy this critical deficiency, the following recommendations are made: 4.5 Public Transportation An efficient transit system is critical to the character and environmental quality of any pedestrian oriented resort. leak identified by the master plan Fegarding transit inGh It is also assumed that as growth and redevelopment continues in the Lionshead area an expansion of existing transit facilities will be necessary. In 2009 the Town of Vail completed the Lionshead Transit Station project. While this study address a number of transit, transit related functions (skier drop -off, loading, hotel shuttles, charter buses, etc.), and other related master plan goals (inviting portals, pedestrian experience, etc.), the focus of this effort was to define a solution for establishing a central transit station within the Lionshead area. A "model" for a central station would be the transportation center in Vail Village. By way of comparison, transit operations in Lionshead are dispersed throughout the area and lacking the efficiency's of the Vail Village center. Transit station facilities necessary to accommIodate in -town shuttles, local buses and ECO buses were assessed base% on both near term and long term needs. It was determined that over the near term between 9 and 11 bus bays will be needed and that in the long term up to 12 to 14 bus bays could be necessary (Lionshead Transit Study, LSC 2009). Given the existing "built condition" of Lionshead there are no perfect solutions for a transit station from either the standpoint of location or cost. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 3 For these reasons a phased approach for transit station improvements is appropriate. 4.5.1 Connection to West Lionshead West Lionshead consists of the Vail Associates Service Yard, Holy Cross site, Vail Professional Building site, Cascade Crossings site, Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site and the Eagle River Water and Sanitation site. Because it is an area of potentially significant growth, it is important that it be fully integrated into the Town of Vail transit system. The West Lionshead properties are at the outside edge of the acceptable walking distance to the ski yard (1200 feet). With a mixed use development in the area which integrates a ski portal, retail space, office space and residential development, transit service to this area and interconnections to other portals will be critical to develop in the future. In addition, the update of the Vail Transportation Master Plan and the 2009 Lionshead Transit Study shall provide direction on the ultimate location of a Lionshead Transit Facility along with needed interconnections between ski portals, regional transit stops, and other transportation modes. The addition of a ski lift in this area would make this area more viable to redevelopment as it would be within the acceptable walking distance of a lift (1,200 feet). 4.5.2 Maximum Efficiency and Utilization The following recommendations are made to enhance the efficiency and functionality of the Lionshead transit connections in anticipation of future redevelopment in the area: 4.5.2.1 Regional Transit Stop Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 4 Alternative locations considered for a regional transit station include the North Day Lot, the West Lionshead area and the Lionshead Parking Structure. Of these alternatives the preferred location is the Lionshead Parking Structure. The Structure is well -sited from a locational standpoint, allows for convenient connections with shuttles, local and in -town bus routes, and may allow for the phased development of a transit station that can respond to Lionshead's transit needs over time. Affordable housing (in lieu of a transit center) was deemed to be the preferred use for the North Day lot and the west Lionshead area was considered too remote from the rest of Lionshead to be a suitable location for a centralized transit center. Notwithstanding the above, facilities for skier drop -off, private shuttle vans, regional buses (ECO), charter buses and the Vail In -Town bus, as defined by the West Lionshead Transit Study (LSC, 2009), should be included in the design of the ski lift and parking facility at West Lionshead. 4.5.2.2 Concert Hall Plaza Stop The elimination of the Concert Hall stop would free up space needed to implement a meaningful redevelopment of Concert Hall Plaza and create a better western portal to the Lionshead core (as more thoroughly described in section 5.10.2). However, the transit and loading /short-term parking provided in this location provide an important service to this part of Lionshead. Any redevelopment of the Concert Hall Plaza or Montaneros will need to address these transit and other related functions. 4.5.2.3 The North Day Lot The North Day lot presents a location for two important community -based uses — a transit center and affordable housing. It has been determined that this site is most suited for housing and transit related functions on this site should be limited to skier drop -off and potentially short-term parking /loading functions. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 5 4.5.2.4 Transit Station at Lionshead Parking Structure /Frontage Road The "Lionshead Transit Center and Related Transportation Enhancement Improvements Design Study" completed in 2009 by the 4240 Architecture Design Team concluded that the Lionshead Parking Structure presents the most viable location for a centralized transit station in Lionshead. In order to address the near -term transit needs an initial phase is recommended that includes a transit stop along the Frontage Road immediately north of the structure. This solution has minimal impacts on the parking structure, can be implemented at a relatively low cost and will meet Lionshead's anticipated transit needs for the near term future. As a long term solution, the Transit Center should be integrated within the Lionshead Parking Structure site; either within a new redevelopment, as contemplated in the 2006 Lionshead Parking Structure Redevelopment Plan, or on top of a future reconstruction of a Lionshead Parking Structure. Transit requirements should be met as outlined within the 2009 Lionshead Transit Study. Figum 4 -6- PoroWiai turning movements at iauerrection o_f East Lionshead Circle and South Frontage Road Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 . . -. :• The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. — I C=== or 3n Fires v 4-6- PoUw�ai -caning 7wvvmrnU or wsrrsecrioA of Ewr boashead Cm and Sowh Fronwge.ReAad Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 7 d DEDICATEDWESTBOU,N LEFr TURN LA.N-E Figures 4 -6a and 4 -6b below are new images to be added �1i �APY -_ • _ at 1 iM st M � �� �... L '• { pt.�� a � �, ,y�' 'tea. t .� r `+►s *,60, L • 3 �""'�,,.� -." s. ..�, *�.. i,..i. �} �: +,. �, � �•.�: "7- a -ti i � �.: �.--. 3^f..`'} 4'"4.�s' ,, -�.:�.' "J!`° ..�' Figure 4-6a - Lionshead Transit Center on top deck of Parking Structure Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 8 y , , l *. Il k i 7 D Xii Sty " fly P^'! i] URk :;.(,,. �� } � � �"''^ is -�..r - ►-,. '`" �^'b i..� \:t- � +._. - x v � ..1 "..,.� �� +� � ��„� t � J- +"'* �•► Figure 4 -6b - Frontage road eeo stop 4.5.3.3 East Lionshead Circle and South Frontage Road Intersection The intersection of the South Frontage Road and East Lionshead Circle is a severe problem for Lionshead transit service. The first problem with this intersection is the steep approach gradient, making it difficult in severe weather for the bus to turn onto the South Frontage Road. The second issue, often exacerbated by the first, is the left turn movement across traffic onto the frontage road. There is no easy solution to this problem. Reduction of vehicular traffic on East Lionshead Circle would decrease competition for openings in the frontage road traffic, but this is only a partial solution. Other mitigating measures could include the following: Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 9 e. Removal of Transit from the Frontage Road The frontage road section between East and West Lionshead Circle is the only portion of the Town of Vail in -town transit route on the frontage road. Frontage road traffic and the difficulty in making left turns cause frequent delays in transit service. The route could be modified in several ways: • Create a parallel transit lane on the south side of the South Frontage Road (see figure 4 -8). Although physically feasible, this alternative would require the acquisition of land from adjacent lodging properties currently used for parking, an action these property owners would likely resist. A dedicated transit lane would also exacerbate conflicts at intersections and lodging driveways. • Create a new underground transit corridor between the North Day Lot and East Lionshead Circle. This option should be pursued with the cooperation of property owners when and if the properties in this area redevelop. • Term Terminating the in -town shuttle bus route at the East Lionshead drop -off (see figure 4 -7)— if d °n° , his aGti °n may neGessitat° iRGreaSinn the frequency of SeFV a as t ha— West vail FG Hte? Se Winn I ienshead was suggested as an alternative to consider in the original Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. This idea was re- visited during the 2009 Lionshead Transit Station project. Due to strong public input to maintain in -town shuttle service to the western side of Lionshead this idea was not pursued. In the future it may be desirable to have the ability (for operational purposes) for buses to turn around on East Lionshead Circle at the east entry to Lionshead. The re- design of the east entry to Lionshead should not preclude the possibility of this turning movement being accommodated at some point in the future. 4.5.3.4 East Lionshead Circle Skier Drop Off Lionshead is lacking sufficient, well - located skier drop off facilities. For many years residents and guests have been using the East Lionshead Circle area at the pedestrian entry to Lionshead to drop off and pick up skiers. This "illegal" activity is cause for much of the congestion, confusion and pedestrian conflicts in this area. Efforts should be made to provide alternative locations for convenient and accessible skier drop off. Possibilities include the North Day Lot and the Lionshead parking Structure. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 10 "IN TOWN" TRANSIT ROUTE POTENTIAL TER.�ATTON OF ROUTE AT EAST LIONS14EAD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL C� +s �� ��� � ��� .. .. ♦ 1. � L L ' �„ ,� . fir �� j- •.:...._...",.�..,. �®.... � ..r.°..__.`" ".� _..._,........�.,... --..�. '� �.'.�� "�`-�, .-,.. � � �` �';"M►a. w `� '' • �. is }y,: = *+s='y �.- '1M°Y. r''� *' "' y `. � ° '- .'- Ys � �"'^ ► `" S-"4r f-n.. 1.s � ..,, ,w ,� },� 4 ` Y}.' ^+ y -. �+ t -� 1. �. = +.�'�...! Figure 4 -7 - Trans t Route T'ermireat on at Fast Liowheud Pedestrian P rral Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 11 The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. "IN TOWN" MUNSIT ROUTE POTENTIAL TERMD;ATT4N OF ROUTE AT FA ST L.IONSHEAD PEDESTRIAN PORT . i 4i VA M r s+ A `, i.""- •.,,,, �' it %' � � �' Ftwe 4-7 - i ii Rowe T'enni]Rt'Juun tai &s LtoiLf}iead Pee desrHan Portal Note: The feasibility of terminating the In Town Transit route at the East Lionshead Portal was dis- cussed during the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study. It was determined at that time that the In Town mute should continue to sen°ice the Marriott and Concert Hall Plaza stops. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 12 WEST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE t �•. L ' t ! j 4` ' VI M WESTWIND V & TTAGE POINT EAST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE Figure 4-.4 - Potential Transit Point Parallel to South Fronrage Road The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 13 . . ........... -W r .. VANTAGE POINT L EAST LIONSUFLAD CIRCLE L WESTIMND Figure 4-i9 - Potential Transit Point Parallel io South Frontage Road Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 14 4.6.3 Modification to East Lionshead Circle The overriding goal for East Lionshead Circle is to de- emphasize vehicular traffic and create a quality, safe, and vibrant pedestrian corridor. Specific recommendations are as follows: 4.6.3.1 Eastern Connection to South Frontage Road A prerequisite for improving safety in the pedestrian crossing between the Lionshead parking structure and the eastern entrance to the Lionshead retail core is a significant reduction in the volume of vehicular traffic (except for transit, emergency vehicles, and adjacent residents). It was initially thought that the most effective means to accomplish this would be to connect East Lionshead Circle back to the frontage road on the east end of the parking structure. However, there are several serious problems. c. Transit Conflicts Connection of the street to the frontage road could introduce a new point of conflict between cars and buses at the driveway down to the Library and Dobson Arena, especially if a vehicular drop -off point is introduced at the west end of Dobson. As an element of the 2009 Lionshead Transit Station Project the feasibility of creating an eastern connection of East Lionshead Circle to the Frontage Road was evaluated. The conclusion of this evaluation was that the existing gradient and land ownership patterns rendered this idea to be infeasible. The idea of an east connection could be reconsidered if ownership patterns changed or in conjunction with the redevelopment of Vail International. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 15 LIONSQUARE T ODGE NORTH PROPERTY MONTANEROS LIONSHEAD PLACE WEST Z IONSH,EAD CIRCLE ot SECONDARY PEI ALK - MAItRIC}TT ' i 3 e s PR01ARY PEDESTRIAN WALK PEDESTRIAN CROSSING REDEVELOPED CONCERT HALL PLAZA Fgwr 4-10. Intenwrion of laoxshead Place and WEST Llmshwd Circle The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 16 WNSHEAD PLACE !— VYTST L OAIShMAV CIRCLE L— 1 R MARY FEDESTRIA'Y wALK PEDESTRIAN CROSSL*iG REDEVFLOP 3 CONCTRT BALL PLAZA Figure eh 1&- Atemear an ref bo"hevd Place said Weir L &mhorxd C imle Note: Potential redevelopment of the Concert Hall Plaza contemplates the removal of transit transit stop /short-tern drop off and loading facilities and the use of Town -owned land to implement this redevel- opment. The feasibility of removing these facilities adjacent to the Concert Hall Plaza location was evalu- ated during the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study and it was determined that these facilities should remain in place. Any redevelopment of Concert hall Plaza will need to address these transit and loading uses. LIONS U,JARE, LODGE NORTH PROPERTY Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 17 4.6.7 4.6.6 Simba Run Underpass Currently the Town of Vail has only two north /south access points between the North Frontage Road and South Frontage Road between Main Vail and West Vail. It has been contemplated that an additional north /south connection be established west of Cascade Crossing. The need for this underpass will be accelerated as a result of the Town's redevelopment plans for Timber Ridge, West Vail and West Lionshead. The redevelopment of the West Lionshead area should be done in a manner that encourages this new connection to be established in the future. It is recommended that the proposed amendments to the Vail Transportation Master Plan provide direction on when public improvements on the Frontage Road need to occur and how they are paid for between public and private funds. The current boundaries of the Lionshead Urban Renewal Authority should be amended to include the location of the Simba Run underpass. 4.7.3.1 West End of Lionshead Parking Structure The idea of a non - structured central loading facility at the west end of the Lionshead parking structure was presented in the original version of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. This idea was further evaluated as an element of the 2009 Lionshead Transit Station Project. Due primarily to the grade of East Lionshead Circle ( +8 %) as well as the visual impact of Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 18 this use and conflicts with parking structure snow removal areas, this idea was deemed to be infeasible. The goal of removing loading from the east entry to Lionshead in oMet to improve safety and the overall pedestrian experience remains. Loading for businesses in the eastern end of Lionshead can be accommodated from the public loading spaces located within the Arrabelle project. 4.7.3.3 Vail Associates Core Site As the single largest service traffic generator in Lionshead, the Vail Associates core site redevelopment (Arrabelle) will provide for its own service and delivery needs. Vail Associates during the master p PFGGeSS iRdiGated that E)Re add In addition, the project will provide a minimum of three loading spaces and up to six loading spaces available for public use. These spaces will provide loading facilities for properties in Lionshead that do not have on -site loading capabilities. 4.8 Parking Parking is a critical component in a mixed -use resort environment such as Lionshead, and any efforts to enhance this component should adhere to the following goals and guidelines: e. Parking requirements should not constitute an unnecessary disincentive to redevelopment. A thorough review of the current parking pay -in -lieu code and parking ratio requirements is recommended. Given the above discussions it is important that parking requirements accurately meet the true parking demand of new development and redevelopment. For example, a stated goal of the masterplan master plan is to encourage, facilitate, and provide incentives for the expansion of ground level retail in Lionshead. While this expanded retail will likely represent some level of incremental increase to public parking demand in Lionshead, this demand needs to be accurately understood so the parking pay -in -lieu fee does not make the retail expansion economically unfeasible. 4.9.4.6 North Day Lot The North Day lot is considered to be the preferred location for a significant housing project in Lionshead to replace the Sunbird affordable housing project and provide housing for new employee generation. The North nay Let may alcn need to anrommedate a transit renter on the ground level of the development cite Additionally, it may be necessary to develop a higher revenue - generating product on a portion of the Vail Associates service yard, Holy Cross, Vail Professional Building, and Cascade Crossing sites in order to defray the cost of road and infrastructure improvements. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 19 In planning the site, the following issues need to be considered. While it is important that buildings here be visually consistent with the overall character of Lionshead, the desire to maximize the housing potential may make appropriate the following deviations from standard development parameters: (in part) CHAPTER 5 Detailed Plan Recommendations This section of the Lionshead Master plan examines individual parcels and groups of parcels within the Lionshead study area, excluding the residential properties on the south side of Gore Creek. The intent of this chapter — and the Master plan as a whole - is to identify important functional relationships and visual objectives within the district and to propose a framework for the long -term redevelopment of Lionshead. The document does not intend to limit or eliminate ideas relating to specific parcels, any proposals consistent with this framework should be considered even if they are not anticipated in this document. The parcels addressed here are organized generally from east to west, starting with the civic hub on the eastern end of the parking structure. 5.3 Lionshead Tourist Information Center The Lionshead Tourist Information Center is currently located just west of the entry to the Lionshead parking structure and is accessed directly off the frontage road. If the entrance to the Lionshead parking structure is relocated as shown in figure 5 -1 this existing facility will need to be relocated. Potential locations for the center include the Future Vail Civic Center and the parking structure. , and Wes i O 5.5 East Lionshead Bus Drop -off Area This area is an essential pedestrian connection between the Lionshead parking structure and the Lionshead retail mail. The master plan recommends the removal of service and delivery activities, skier drop -off, and shuttle vans from this area in order to make pedestrian crossing safer. Other improvements include: 5.5.2 Transit Stop Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 20 The transit arrival and drop -off points should be re- designed to provide improved transit functions and a better pedestrian experience. While pedestrian and bus conflicts will always exist given the need for people to move between the parking garage and the east Lionshead portal, significant improvements can be made to landscaping, sight - lines, pavement surfaces, grades and the aesthetic quality of this area. 5.5.3 Potential Building Infill Site G��, v , Sxl o� ­­Y .­G he retail -betteF definitio.- of the r-nrr . At one time the Master Plan con lated when the skier drop -off and r ^ U� service and delivery functions remo d from the transit drop -off area, �f` the transit stop may be red ed in size, 'elding a site suitable for infill development. This prope functions as ro right -of -way, owned by the Town of Vail. While elopment of this area ould potentially create a strong gateway into a retail core and better de ' ition of the pedestrian corridor that co ects it to the parking structure, i would also eliminate the opportuni or a softer landscaped entry into Lion ead. Development within this ea would also preclude future transit uses or these reasons the pote ial "build to lines" at Vail 21 and Lionshead C ter have been redu d in scope to not encroach into Town -owned property. Refer to Map S r a depiction of these build -to lines. 5.6 West Face of the Parking Structure This area had previo"Iy been contemplated as being used for loading and delivery. However as previously mentioned this is not feasible. This area should be preserved for snow storage and access into the Lionshead Parking Structure. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 21 VAIL PUBLIC LMXARY TE"I7AI. I3E4�'E.I.C?:NT ON SOUM FACE OF SMUCTLRE .. K7- jf LICYNSWADPARKW - �,,, ,�. STRUC at � `"` �« S,A i.w- iw. �... � �^sa,.: a°1►r. "�� a 'Ye^• #�,;° +r..�"!w"w �.'ti.� ti �..J- .,...:. WYMMAI_MVIC CF'NTFR COMP( �-- COIr VECTtON HET'W'EEN DOBSON ICE ARENA { AND POTENTIAL CMC C1NM COMPONENT L VAIL I TERNA -17 3I• U '* EAST LJONSITAD FEDE&MIAN PORTAL rixurr S - - r ail Cary Ct .*r snd Est Ids The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 22 VA,TL. PUBLIC LIBRARY IOZENTi Vii, DEVELOPKEN'I' 0N SOLTi`H FACT: OF S MU CTURI i� yS +.rt, t - . � „ �4er ,_►-' -„ *, car` j J -. .. 4=- t1.�r. �aN+� ;. y i �. a � s � � �'• ti t' � � �� Ik k Y ` J R L r � . 2t CONMECTIO+I BETWEEN DOR ICE ARENA A-xm P"TFI 1 I AL CIVIC cEN TIER "ENT VAIL 2nT-R-WATI0N. EXIST 11ONKM PMESTRL" PORTAJ. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 23 ENHANCED PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO Ej(LjM tET.A ZL SPACE PWrsr 7AN PLC %TTTI vruncuLAx cRossi ; FOR LOCAL TRA TIC A.NlDTRANstT ONLY LANDMAAMFOC:AL POR1C x- WANDEMMLL RETAI1 rRAN&T 5CCU" LOCATED OF PR24ARY PEDESTRIAN FLOW PATTERN RETAIL DENTROPMEN'T ON FACE OF PAIRKYNG -MCTURE F Burr c_g -Ezt bomiead Pedeirriar Awwas The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 24 ENi kNCED PEMSTRIAN ACCESS TO TRAFFIC CONTROL STATION L WF,ST IN ; WEST OUT SKIER DROP OFF PED I°R1AN ENTRT COR&MR Figure w -6 -Ewr L c miead I edayrrian f nrtai Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 25 t— RFT kIL :)EvaopmEw ON FACE of P ARKP iG E I"4TC'T' m s s R L �_ a R R � sj r* , .g 1 >to�ta�rs>� tcar•�t�: � I REMV L M:p ) PAI�ICt U G1G 'I'AL EXPA &ON Fi 5 -7 d.sapahed Arcade Vail P. L#Uouse Lodge- bo prie and Redeve neped Parkr`xg Deck The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. LIONS II AU A ACADE RETAIL EXP'&4SION .. "L Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 26 LIONSHEAD ARCADE RETAIL EXPANSION t 77 Al m m o I TM401TRE tOTI aF r 1p 1• li RF-DEVEI" PA"d x UP-CPL WAL EIVAN ON Ft S-7- llawAead Almade- Vad It. L#bowe Lodge Linde sang' SeJeveloped Parlaxg Deck Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 27 + t LIONSHEAD ARCADE RETAIL EXPANSION t 77 Al m m o I TM401TRE tOTI aF r 1p 1• li RF-DEVEI" PA"d x UP-CPL WAL EIVAN ON Ft S-7- llawAead Almade- Vad It. L#bowe Lodge Linde sang' SeJeveloped Parlaxg Deck Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 27 EAST-WEST ORIENTED I)Ey EWPM 3+I1` ON � ETTST R Ci PAIMING DE N RLTH- SQI37H O ENTED DD ELOPMENT SI A2rTNNG ACCESS DRIVE LIONSNEAD AkCAD. I VAIL 21 —� F*wr -14- Adams RekftMP"eM 0 AWMkY a L w� Md1d rg Sit, The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 28 f. t 1 k F�pvw Radime&rmem OppwTuatry a Low B'didmg Site Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 29 LIt7� SHEAD ARC ADE LIONS FAD CEN�"i' R VAIL AS$oa ATF.a CORE SM— LANYMA:RK RETAtI. CONCERT HALL PLAD, law s ' ` , so - .3 - AL w '.. k fix} J r ar re i ar art arr s � � r s Wa 3Y LL '#• t � -j '12+"�- . .. ,,� •- �y VAL 21 1 TM-'01 T';): 7 l` n('.P FWure j4 - iionihead Rik-W 0 rr :Area The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 30 U0KSfffit%D AR0,DF p M L10KSHEJkD CENTER Opp. VAIL 21 VAIL ASSOCIATES CORE SITE LAI+0MARK,RETA1L CONCERT HALL I F PLAZA 77� A� fi L4� Lo �- I FF1 My I Jalnrip FWww 54 - Liawhead RdaO Cwr Ama Resolution No- 13, Series of 201 31 SLCONDARY P Ofr.ST N CORRIDORS SKI YARD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL f r PEDESTRIAN WANKS / gy low fi' �� •. 4 : EAST LIONS MAD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL — LI,') SHEA -D PARSING STRULTURE S. WI ST 1.10 14FAD PET)ESTATA N POR7,AL Fib -9 •F_aw —West ardNanh-Sarah Liawhead Co" Pedimtrian Corr jars The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. t Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 32 I PRIMARY PM SIRIAN CORRIDORS y i r: ta- ;i, • v v NOR I it{}2MMAD C" S j`1U rte. I 60 yi �r3. alb m n. } _ A it M® F1 5--9 - biseRWext 4v-d or-h- h Lwuheaf Co" e dcklri" r Omdors S KI 7YA SE L��3�1 E 10 E 7.hf9 PORTAL PSDESTRLkN WALKS r` Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 33 ?EMSTRIAN At.:ES5 V 7-- f t .`il we 5 -11 -Ww Lioukmi Ma11 dewuw 4awwfiom The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. WEST UONSMkD PEVHSMAN PORT'Ai. s� A . FIRE LANs: LIONS"FAD RFTAIL MALL. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 3 4 LIONS RE TAM AM WU PigWe 5 -11 - meat R$h*Oi MdH Pin COARWhOW y y _s i 4 i Note: Establishing the West Lionshead Pedestrian Portal was predicated on the removal of transit, drop -off and loading facilities. During the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study and it was determined that these facilities should remain in place. A pedestrian portal in this location is still desired, but will need to be done in conjunction with maintaining transit, drop -off and loading uses. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 35 r 1` EDESTRLkN,'HIL -Y ACCESS PEDESTRIAWBICYCLE ACCESS + Waft hgw 5- 1.' -Wea LiomheadMall ?eJrs(ri= Coanrawmv The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. WESTLx)N4SHWX PEDESMAN'PORTAL Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 ;6 " 1,ICNSHEADfXTALMAM FIRE LANE hgw 5- 1.' -Wea LiomheadMall ?eJrs(ri= Coanrawmv The image above is to be deleted and replaced with the image below. WESTLx)N4SHWX PEDESMAN'PORTAL Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 ;6 " 1,ICNSHEADfXTALMAM FtDESTRI,kWBICYC� ACOpSS LIONSMAD LETAK. ?ytAt..L Fl&n&e 3 -14 -Weat Liorxshe ad.Afa11 Podgwidn CaaWaWns rte. Note: Establishing the West Lionshead Pedestrian Portal was predicated on the removal of transit, drop-off and loading facilities. During the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study and it was determined that these facilities should remain in place. A pedestrian portal in this location is still desired, but will need to be done in conjunction with maintaining transit, drop -off and loading uses. 1 Rorth Day Lo gFeURd fleor. ideally the uses te be Gonsidered fer the site should inGlude skie 7 �1 � J v j 3 fr.d Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 3 7 Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 38 At the time the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan was adopted the North Day Lot was identified as a potential location for a central transit facility. During subsequent study of the site in 2008 and 2009 it was determined that the Town would not pursue locating a transit center on this site. In lieu of a transit center the North Day Lot has been programmed to provide affordable housing along with a skier drop -off parking lot. Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 3 9 NORTH LIONSHRAD "DESTIKW PORTAL PEYESTPUANCOiMMUR —TR.A,14SPCRTAIION Cta'3'TER ARRIVAL f ACUTY L0CkI.JRFGIjCNAL!;HUTrLkS ;,MALRMIONAL TRANSIT UND CILkRMK BUSE5 XWbVtL(*WYRk-NUVA VEU LAMWARX TOMNHOMM i 7_ ' 71 - 4 -E TNG PEDESTRIA N BRMGE L TRANSIT VEJVCIAAR CIRCULAn L ACUM 10 8LL0W-.STRUCrURt SERVICE A,NI) DELIVERY FACMnY ST CRTTERM SKIER DROP-OFF AREA LANMCAPE SCREENNG IDWARDS WESII1'L0 COT DOWNWUS Fqur,r 5. 13 -,Prqpored.Vonh r4y Lo: Tranni Cotter The image above and below are to be deleted and not replaced. M M as W ' A Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 40 POTENnAt { OM ER IA: SPACE BUL:T ADOVE NORTH DAY LCC T"J"NI81)Jt> k3't WCE'IKZMk FORTH DAY LOT TRANSPORT ,T ON CF-NT" -� AUWW AL NORTH- M COMPONFNT OF R FUENTIA PI:L3 LAI.WMAIX TO"Ht3,MB POITN COMMON LOBBY IPACV OF REMVELOVED LAVDIMA.R L 1 OW --Ff4' MFS COMPOVE. T ilk REMWELkw $ LAhDN,LARK `l`O'P HOMES L F'(.i"omAL Lvi.#E- :AC DwPOFF ANT GR. TRA,vS€Tt0'c RETAIL (ORE WESTUONSKEADCRCI,k ° i'IOW, T)e peft um! couzzemw 0=powc describod in fts Est will PhPac 5.10.2 Concert Hall Plaza /Montaneros Concert Hall Plaza was intended to be the western portal into the Lionshead pedestrian core, but pedestrians can't see where it leads and don't use it. When this property is redeveloped, a priority will be to create a connection as direct as possible between the western terminus of the pedestrian core and the intersection of West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place. The concept illustrated in figure 5 -11 would require cooperation with the Town of Vail to Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 41 Aiv. –, .5-iu- ,•fJxr ,-h r f Pn rem fi r" 0* A vs 4 fans• 1 - Y"ruum;rrar A t.'MW SSW remove the existing bus drop -off, as well as Montaneros and the Landmark Townhomes. (The scenario in figure 5 -11 would require a small property acquisition from the Landmark in the northeast corner of the redeveloped structure.) The redeveloped structure could accommodate a vertical residential component as well. This is the most feasible solution for a strong pedestrian connection, but the best solution would entail a cooperative redevelopment effort with the Montaneros. The Town of Vail should make all reasonable efforts to encourage and facilitate this redevelopment. However, the need to maintain a bus stop and some level of short -term parking and loading /delivery functions on Town -owned land adjacent to Concert Hall Plaza will be an important consideration in the re- development of these properties. INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 4th day of May, 2010. Richard D. Cleveland, Mayor, Town of Vail ATTEST: Lorelei Donaldson, Town Clerk Resolution No. 13, Series of 2010 42 x Ir ii - le i S .� ry �t 1 i zi �0 ks •x ;L i zi �0 C 0 v U) v 0 rz U Z X r+ r+ CD 0 cn r O 0 O cn CD 3 CD Q 3 CD cn r CQ O w cn Q CD cn 0 Q O CD r+ I CD CD O - O 0 O CD 3 CD 3 r+ V x O CD O r Q. CD CD O CD r+ O O . cn O CD C7 r+ O CD 0 r-t- M CD O -t, O Q v vi If" o-A" • r-4- � r�- O O O O O O O') CYI W N --� C 0 v U) v 0 rz U Z X r+ r+ CD 0 cn r O 0 O cn CD 3 CD Q 3 CD cn r CQ O w cn Q CD cn 0 Q O CD r+ I CD CD O - O 0 O CD 3 CD 3 r+ V x O CD O r Q. CD CD O CD r+ O O . cn O CD C7 r+ O CD 0 r-t- M CD O -t, O Q v vi If" o-A" • O co 0. C W n � W O U O O a.. ■ J FA as �= m c0 O N r O U) O o Q v J N }, cz L m A (B (a X C- Q C 0 C6 Q - 2 cz W W E O +} E Q a) o > O Q E �` 666fff .` •-� 1 L � O I I ° ` L C� / { U) _ t i U C O U J FA as �= m c0 O N r O U) O o Q v J N }, cz L m A (B (a X C- Q C 0 C6 Q - 2 cz W W E O +} E Q a) o > O Q E �` 666fff .` •-� 1 L � O I I ° ` L C� / { U) _ !� 3 -� o CD 0 O � r+ � tp � � o iv ° ( <. Cn 3 co CD CD -z CD CD �� CD O n� rn� c Q CD -� Cf) CD Q Q o r C. CD o Cl) o CD n _. C C7 a CD cn O '"' C — < � CD � � (' CD G' Q O CD Er -n -� _+; QO -� ° Qo CD rn tQ � In CD C7 cn CD n W " � o -0 CD -O 0, (D g� o rn=. m �. -n CD cn 2) — m CD U ) C� CL �y Z'I CD p U) m c -� I � O n N CD CD '0 CD v Q°� r fir n� U) CD _ ■ ,�- Qp v � n < CD p C(D r-t- CD N CD 1 rn 2) o o �.. O� C7 n CL o C1 _ O •-4- D -� C7 CD CD — cD n N CD cn Q CD CD Q Q CD (n n -n cD � _� � CD 0 r CD � . Q aqn zz n CD 0 9 cn (D .. zT Z3 v 70 O rn n O D 1 ■ t N • • t C V U O p Ci3 s- n �- O 4-a E 0. O W z J 4-- 0 • 1 vi U) U O QL C� � G J O U) a- ^ W E O O a-0 C� a) O v C: a) 0 • a-j O O a --j O O O O cn O cm 2 J N O O O 0- E D w U) m O a U) O z:: V 2 J O E O w O 4 � O C6 cn O 4 -_+ O U O C� U _0 O O Q W U c� ca u cn N U O CDL _0 N 0 cm O 2 J N N O a O O U) O :j in 0 cu U) U) ca ca a� U) 0 J r 0 cn U) v 0 =z JJ `V • --% � 1 ,� m (D Q CD r--F- O O C, O O :7 CD o ca C: r i CD _. CD cD r - O F m o CD 0- 0- C - 1 0 o r 0 < 0 . M c - (n - u} CD O 3 =�= 0 CD O c Cn (n o• �D O cn N CD CD cn JON ■ t s7 • • O —h O -� C n N M to O � CL L � (a N . v 0 0 ca. O E09 v L v N Q 2t 0 LO L L L v v A." Q 0 1 U) U) c O o � v v E E E E O O U v v � (� a_ v 2t 0 LO L L v v -i- CL A." Q r� r� N Im Zr 0 0 FD DO cn 0 I z KA .... . . W. ... 7 %, ) T T- T T 4- •e-*, ter" 7 k !` O W N W CW GJ N N N N w N :pk -0 CD CD 0 0 rnrn � 0 0 w o m e -� cD�� � � � a n CD V� Z n O' — n 0 _ — cn cn cn O to to —� �. CD n 0'� O N o o — CO 0 O 0 0 v v 0 CD CD 0 '� CD c co 00� o��� o cD cno o � � cno � o c - �v0-0 3 DD 3 �o r. � CD (D 0 =r cl c�= o 2) p (D o CD , (n Q X� O rItL C 00 0 0) CD CD -' — o E rIlL = _ CD CD 0 Q h eq�; 2) CO � CD v i C CD C CD • • 3 CD 3 CD �- :D O 0 • U) s m O CD t Nr N N O c� O cu co U) cu Cl- T � minis O -0-j > C N 0 C N ®R N U D L O CCS s S0 0 • U) s m O CD t Nr N N O c� O cu co U) cu Cl- T � minis O -0-j > C N 0 C N ®R N v 0 (D U) VJ 0 z C/) zc�um D v < cn� - - C)� T.(D — 0 o .-� -� O O o m v Z z Z3 O v c v cn Q m m O m �a o n CD = O U) v r < � m o � o (D v = cn (n m m Z �C-r m 0' Z m O (n Q ( 77 O m r o Q o'C� Cnr m �- cn m CD r - v G) O 00 cn 0- O CT CD CD U) ^^� swu (n m MMI O 0 Iw L& O }' (t3 C t� • 1 • • • • z J O Q co CC�S O O N E E O N O I CQ Q O U O 0 U O CL O Q tT5 M: O E O Q .E O Ca L- 0 U O Q C6 O cn (6 d' S P z 0 ca C/) cz - C3 ca CD c 0 Cll _ O . O N � N � >1 O CL v cn c += U _ N Q �, O cn 0) N O L 2 N � - i O O7 W cn >, � U .0 F— 4--- 0 O O O O U O 0 U O CL O Q tT5 M: O E O Q .E O Ca L- 0 U O Q C6 O cn (6 d' S P z 0 ca C/) cz - C3 ca CD c 0 4A- t J (D -P CD O cn W (D o � o 3 O cn O m s� cn Q l< v t • • 1 • t' • 1 TT V . —*+ C . - -1 O . . r U) ;:;: cn (D Q z CD O cn r+ CL) (D C (D (.0 Q . O � — `�- r - CD C (D C (n O O � O _ CD cn r+ O � (D _ O c r v o c� c � �< �. v o , �- o� v o CC) �� O — ° Q cn (D cn (D Q n _. ° O Q O * v M F -a (D Q C)7 ° v (D o (D 0- v 00 (D v CD Q C)- CD ° v (D rn O c° CD °' m Z3 cn Q Z3 (D O ::3 cn — o —�i - r- O - — `� n ° ° cn O cn ,� (n (D CD c° rn cn m =� r cn o M (D o� :3 m o D � O m m c� v r o 3 Q v cn °- z cn ° 0 zT � �m n cn �� (D Q O O ° (D v cn rz 0 �p CD c (D Z co U) n O I (D (D (D �- D o ( CD 4A- t J (D -P CD O cn W (D o � o 3 O cn O m s� cn Q l< v t • • 1 • t' • 1 O 4-j L - 0 C: 0 r v / O 0. O L 1 ■ Cll L ' -Fa V J O O .. Cll E E O � O LL ^ L W I •d W f 1 V d' N 0 C6 CO U) ca a� U) cz 0 c C6 O O U O O � O � Cll j cn Cll . U N O O C6 _0 L- Q •> O O cz M ° O E ^, O O O }, L C� _0 j Co � U EL Cll Ca Ca = O 70 Q «3 V d' N 0 C6 CO U) ca a� U) cz 0 r 0 CD v sv U) U) v 0 ;z c� O CD N 3 CQ O O Z3 cn CD n O Z3 O Fn cn c� cn 0 Q CD r+ CD Q O cn FD �o 0 Z3 Q 0 kio cn g CD rn Q L cn CD cn 3 O cn 0- O 0 cc Q r+ e+ cn CD cn CD Z v O .-+ 0 v � 0 L r+ l< O O r+ CD �(D :3 cn O Q m O �_ C7 CD �_ =r FD O cn O = -- O 3 0 0 O 3 3 CD Q N w CD Z O v 0 t / -p iv CD O 3 3 v 0 0 CD iU C!) l< CD v 1 1 r • 3 CD 3 CD � O to C3� • • W U) 0 CL 0 s WE ■ Qo -+ Q 70 O Q -0 N U O_ U) O .N O J '� O O U -�W- 0 i N O� zi t6 O X L •� }, T O _X Q • C6 Q (n �. -.--0 U) +� U O N O M m (n Q (LS O C6 to N O O (a O J 70 O M O C6 CD to � N Q .� N a- to L O O p CM o p _� U ' O o m > _rZ E o o C/) }' _ O �, O L m (n N j C/) O cn O Q to CCS 7 0 U) _0 U R3 _� O p • O L O 0) p Q J cn 0 U) C6 U) a) U U) Ca 0 Ca U lq N 0 ca cn ca L ca a� 0 0 CD OL) CD_ Cf) ,--I- U) 0 1 i7 s�l� 0 2" I r lit IL 1 4 L m a m 0 C) w ry: Jt 7­ 0 cn ;w cn _0 CQ cn 0 CD � -n 0 to CD X 0 2) CL 7C3 r--#- (D cn r__#_ (D I _u A ,- Vl R ,A 0 3 3 i� 0 wi Vn I • • • m 3 CD 3 (D �. O LO to R� N t6 • • r. 0 n � W O Q LL rr VJ c L V/ o U) L a t v C a) Jc c E . o C6 0_ a a) V) r L Q � N ui r� x r Y Y ' °a 'b a 1_ f ® ` ( } ky .a 8jj A j4 p• t •y am � R i R p C0 f- o 7C3 o p y J O _ 0 �.j i j 4 �J 0 r--1- Q lV Q 0- c0 0 CD r 0 zT v Q v cn cn 0 o c� rh (n' `V m Q � `V lV o 3 0 D cn v c c0 M v 0- Xv, c� 0 0 mm� `V c0 L 0 cn r+ NO 0 0 v � o cn 0 o � 0 r o 0 I D o z 0 M m / V A W W i� r 0 CD sv CL n 0 c� CL a N c� CD X 2) CL 0� t J �mm \V cn (D sv 0 0 3 3 CD v 0 cn I O ro v cn Q rn is r 1 1 Z3 U) � cn r� l m V (D cn m -I " 0 3 U 0 v o o cr �(D �.cn rnQ a) 0 cQ (p ( cn < n o (D o c r 0 3 r (D 0 0 0 �- :3 v Q � C� v � rn rn cn v cn o o o CAD Q (D o � o c o �. 0 0 Z ( zT 0 (D m o o rZ3 _ r `✓ 0 z _0 zr C 0 0 c o c 0 0 0 r--1- Q lV Q 0- c0 0 CD r 0 zT v Q v cn cn 0 o c� rh (n' `V m Q � `V lV o 3 0 D cn v c c0 M v 0- Xv, c� 0 0 mm� `V c0 L 0 cn r+ NO 0 0 v � o cn 0 o � 0 r o 0 I D o z 0 M m / V A W W i� r 0 CD sv CL n 0 c� CL a N c� CD X 2) CL 0� t J �mm \V cn (D sv 0 0 3 3 CD v 0 cn I O ro v cn Q rn is r 1 1 LO fn O }' c6 N VJ 0 0. 0 0 aS r_ 0 O Q ---p U LL > 0 0 �L � U o � O � J N � C G � M M LO .1 'A i € A } a f 1 9 S � I le N C O -4 - (10 CO U) cz ^ m r W r U) L O g A„B t f ta �% ViR �O s S � I le N C O -4 - (10 CO U) cz ^ m r W r U) L O 0 1 U) CD w U) 0 0 I • 0 U) n zT (D Z O U O r-+ r 0 Q) Q v c0 (D n (D U) a (D 77 (D' O • m 0 U) 0 c l e a O O CD (D D 0 v O U) O 0 Z3 0 m o 0 (D _0 CD Q Q (D C/) cf) (D c �' cn 0 cD (D C) o� � o � 0' r (C) O C: :3 0 v (n cn _0 w = O Q w C)- ' (D c CT 0 � 0 � � O �' D (Q (Q Z37 �' m ZT � U Fn v o' cD l< D v �' = 0 (D Q (D C� -h O n 1 (D • r 0 D ZY Q ,+V n c0 cn n' (D' I ,L O 0- U) O (D cn w .P 2) r U) 2) CL n -' 0 CD _x N' .1% v 0 - a 0 h t J r+ m -p i cn (D m v Z3 m 0 3 3 v 0 0 c� sv cn K lk • • 1 t 1 1 • • / 1 o W U) O C L O L Q. t , U) O N C) }' O L- 75 . O (>') . Q� CCS — L O > Q N O U 7 L m u) _0 M O •— }, o U c L O N N Q cQ cn O .V O O .� O U > '� T 4_ J O U) al Ca c O c }. �- j C: N O S m O Q > to C6 0 c: E U a) (� 4— > Li N p >� O O c O O 0- Ca > N = s= c 0 I � O N O U V .O U O C) N 70 O Cj) • — :3 ca �— c�6 p : O -r 0 � -- - � U ) W � O J M .� U •> - Co i -' O N N - N 0 O ( n � M Q N 2 N Q Cm U LU O O Ca CB 0) V E CM � -r- = cm � cm cn a) c0 a) - Ca a� 0 a) W cn O a) -0 N O -0 LIO T cm a) �� L — Cn CCS L CU . W o 1 N -r 0 cn cn c� - TD ca a� _o N w cn r =- 0 CL 00 cn v o D CD c cn O a t J (D C3� I cD v 0 3 3 v O cn Pei 0 r • t r • .r 3 r+ O cn CD Q� 0 0 < o _ rn �- m �. m c .-+ (D O :3 =-�. n ,� �' cn < ��CD�' Z3 I- 0 Z3 Z 3 � cn ( o �ca Co Co 0 0 CD (n CD cn -+, U) �. n cn cn w Q w -0 � ZT CD CD X O cn ,--r CD CD �— (D o �. O �' ,{ CD Q c0 ((n zT < c CD CD �. Q CD O CD 3 -� 0 (n O < . z �c0�0 �, Q CD . v 0 (DD n -- .3 z3 CAD 0 C<D N w cn r =- 0 CL 00 cn v o D CD c cn O a t J (D C3� I cD v 0 3 3 v O cn Pei 0 r • t r • .r O }' a. -0 W z CL J Q 0 4-+ U) m L Cn m Cis 70 0 Q� Q E 0 E Q 0 cn Cv � m Cis . 0 C) U - ) W n W N z c� E;, a V 1 0' N "It - z= c O c� CJ) Ca F- 70 M Q� U) _O J CU F , O . . 5 --1 . . Q . Cn CD 0 a) (D —I (D (D _ > W r+ :37 I O C O �• (n < O (D r n n (D :3 (D (D (D O O c° 0 0- � Q. `c o m o 3 O D 0 0 Z3 cn �° (n :3 0 rn'v M=r ( - � O O (D (n cD (D (D (D = ° C)- ---h Z -, (D�' � 0 � cn • � C r+ ( n CQ CD � Q. � o cn cn � � Q° Z v o -1 0 rn(D cn 0 (Dv cD °v Q (�°� r r-i- ,�. 0 0 O- Sy Sv - O Q (D -0 �° ° r+�o ° o� r-f = :T c n r+ --� Q �p Q- ° CAD (D � D , -I -� ( ° -. ,_-� _ . (n - — 7D Z) � - � O o `< (D O U) O CD O C) (D < O r+ (D —+' (D Q CD (D N 0 �Sy �� CD �+ -� � -0 0 cn r♦ O �: CD r cn cn O � � (D r+ O -+, :3 (o =3 0 (Q `G (n (DD CAD (C) O — C ' � -'.' D CD (D < (n — . m 0- — (n cn Cl) c) cn O (D O r+ Z) 7 _ '{ CD (D O Q I-+. E � (D . m r+ 7 CD -a C/) (D Q n < C) r-- (D I r+ w 0- - 0 s� (D 0 3 3 i1* o� pe • • • I • 3 (D Q. 3 CD � O CD cn LO 0 a. N N CCf N O Q O L Q G 2 J CD m O � A V + i Q L� O L O A M � W /4! W Cl) a O J c� W M U ,f C O Ca CO U) C� L W C U) O 7 ¢' O � X Itt CD cn I to ........... __ Vii: V CD • • . (D � --! cn m t M �- co Q a / 1.. W CO V m 7 ` J O v 3 o 7 ¢' O � X Itt CD cn I to ........... __ Vii: V CD • • t t M LO O • • • • • • O cz E E 0 cn cz D CA 0 Q) n in 0- CZ CZ ui 0 1 4 - N Z� Inc 0 4 Cl) > ca o _ 0 i7 C q C/) � H y 1 0 1 4 - N Z� Inc 0 4 Cl) > ca o _ 0 i7 C q C/) v r 0 U) v v CU) v 0 I z I ra C,77 07 CD w C O CD tQ cn n CD L 4E CD cn i CD Q RA v n O 3 3 CL O t • • r 1 1 O T c- c- OL) C<D CQ Cn cn n =7 c �- O - O Q CD CD Q <- CD CT O < CD C: o- l< cn (n 3 CD N O CD Q O O O O 1 ZY m cn �- O r-4- Q m m cn T. � (p Z3 m cn 0 c O �- O o ZY � r c� o cn CD Q � CD CD C,77 07 CD w C O CD tQ cn n CD L 4E CD cn i CD Q RA v n O 3 3 CL O t • • r 1 1 O 4-a C6 -0 N • • • 1 VJ 0 CU E E 0 C6 CU 5 C J 4L q j .. ... oil - jj � 1 Nt N Jhl 0 - b.- ca CJ) U) L 7 0 m Q) C V) 0 iD z O v 0 l J v cD i CD v c�D 0 3 3 O cn ■ • 1 • i l 1 o 0 O 0 D c — c cn cn — — :- c� v ° ° c i 3 0 0 _+% cD cn CD c0 CD ZY 0 � cn :3 °zT B �� Q: O �•Q 7 z M Z3 7 C) CD- O – 3 CD CD O , -I T. ( < zT O cD � C7 CD — O v �' 0 �-o _� l< �+ 0 r— (D CD :3 c0 O O O n �- Z]7 O 00 CD Q (f) --s cn CT CD CD N cn (D CD O OL) �-. O Z U) Cfl cn W CD v — cn 3 Q. CD CD 0 CD 0 Q. 0 O CD z ;z O CD z zT O m Q o l< 0 [" m iD z O v 0 l J v cD i CD v c�D 0 3 3 O cn ■ • 1 • i l 1 4 r*A 14 0 CL U) 4-0 E cn 0 CD. 0 Q. 2 a. O E E 0 Of tlS 00 P z i 14 l 1 * , V , It IN Nt s p c_ 0 -0.— ( CO U) CB c O cn O N 0 O CD rl 2) lw CD O P99, o Cn I O C Sv CD Q n O 3 3 O r 2 1 • 1 • 0< �. Q_ Z37 0 Q O 3 < CD �'' (D rn _0 a � � n cD O Q < CD — O O O —' CD ,-+ <• — Z7 *, (D O O CAD -0 :3 r'° Q C CD � --h CD (D C) CD N CD n Q. c zr r O p — (D (n z 3 O (n c Q CD -. p �. 3 Q- (D - Zj (D CD ,-+ p Q (D v (n (D - 0 CD CD _ CD 3 0 '-t • C/) � U) O � 7 Cn CD o < _ �_ O n p -+, Z2. (D �-t- C/) O iv ,-+ (D � CD CD Q 3 CD Z3 Q =3 Q. CD CD m �- (n Q — (D (n CD O O O CD r+ (D - p O O a' CD z3 (D O � r+ < CD c n O O Q. O Cp CD r-+• O N O = O zr C7 p C7 O D CD (D D r cn = cn O rn O N T ,_+ (D 0 �. O Q (n • O �. CD -1 v r"` f n cn O N 0 O CD rl 2) lw CD O P99, o Cn I O C Sv CD Q n O 3 3 O r 2 1 • 1 • Q I co E C: 0 J Cn C 0 0 E E O U N C6 n a) a) Q A e c ULIOF C1 N sp O cu CJ) ca H cu CD C cn O J cu i� =Qr r a W V a t � a 0 z a z • C� 0 tiV 4- U) 4- 0 0 -�p Z 0 ca C/) Q) C Cf) C 0 1 65 e cAnMe✓ij Wece, re5C✓► At 4e PwAr n j 6n) w ee oJ -ted P l -� l LHMP Amendments Corrections to Section 5.5.3 The following highlights refinements made to the LHMP amendments reflected in Resolution #13 provided in the Town Council Packet. These modifications are found on page 21 of the Resolution. They were made following PEC review and were overlooked when putting together the final resolution. Language deleted is indicated with stfikethfough and new language is in bold. 5.5.3 Potential Building Infill Site At one time the Master Plan contemplated that when the skier drop -off and service and delivery functions are removed from the transit drop off afe east entry to Lionshead area that the transit stop may be reduced in size yielding a site suitable for infill development. This infill development would be associated with Vail 21 and /or Lionshead Center re- developments on property that functions as road right -of -way and is owned by the Town of Vail. e dDevelopment of this area would potentially create a strong gateway into the retail core and better definition of the pedestrian corridor that connects it to the parking structure. would also eliminate the eppoFtimity for- a softer- !andseaped en Lions . Development within area also pfeeludee tfansit uses. For- the e reasons the potenti� -to lines" at Vail 21 ana T ' L. .l C en t er- L, bee r i seop t no t o aeh into T., =.... owne prope R r t M S for a depiction _ of these build t li During the 2009 Lionshead Transit Study there was discussion regarding the idea of the entry into Lionshead being a "softer" more landscaped environment similar in concept to Slifer Square. In addition, there is a need to maintain transit functions in this area. For these reasons, coupled with the limited space available in this area the "build to" lines depicted on Map S may not be feasible. Any necessary refinements to "build to" lines should be considered during subsequent detailed design of the east entry into Lionshead. 03/01/2010 05:07 970- 926 -7576 BRAUN ASSOCIATES PAGE 02 Planning and Environmental Commission .. General Information: An amendrr;ent of the zoning regulations or change In zone district boundaries may be Initi- ated by the Town Council, by the Planning and Environmental Commission, by petition of any resident or owner In the Town, or by the Administrator. Required criteria and findings for such petition are stated In Section 12 -3 -7C, Vail Town Code. Relevant sections of the Vail Town Code can be found on the Town's webslte at www.vailgov.com, The proposed project may also require other permits or applications and /or review by the Design Review Board and /or Town Council. Fee: $1300 Description of the Request: .0%.'i -LWLI W d r ­7 �,1 � J vt ".d 1 �- . r L mo w. �W'�•. � � ,.� -�o "t'v :�.(,10� ' V 1 : �'� �yl w�.a.X. .� 10 w�'� '� .` 1 Physical Address: ELI A Parcel Number: N I A (Contact Eagle Co. Assessor at 970 - 328 -8640 for parcel no.) 4 9 lz ,= A n Mailing Address: 15 S_ ,i.�..�e� �„,�� ) {ke M (0 4sl lQ S? Owner's Signature: Phone: 91 0 k{'1 LL IS S Primary Contact / Owner Representative: --7a ow%. j u N 76 r" N A " u c ; , Mailing Address. 2-LS' J1km— 2�., ( �C C,,Ja e k y, co Ss l 4 3 --- l II Phone: q 1 y °t 2-1 1 5 15 E- Mail: I r'Avoj AS o, . toot Fax: dtLLa '15 7Co For Office Use Only: Cash CC: Visa / MC Last 4 CC # Fee Paid: Meeting Date: Planner: Auth # Check # Received From: PEC No.: Project No: - 00 52 Zoning: Land Use: Location or the Proposal: Lot: ` Block:.... Subdivision: 10 —OQO l 01- Jars -10 Amen L t4 wl P Application for Review by the JVIC7t'; n : � G'Go �'���r� WT +00v t,l r tA r -- Z - . Coln f Vt: �' MEMORANDUM V TO: Planning and Environmental Commission FROM: Community Development Department DATE: April 12, 2010 SUBJECT: A request for a recommendation to the Vail Town Council for an amendment to the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, pursuant to Section 2.8, Adoption and Amendment of the Master Plan, Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan, to amend the recommendations for transportation improvements in Lionshead (generally located at the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop) and setting forth details in regard thereto. (PEC100009) Applicant: Town of Vail, represented by Braun Associates Planner: Warren Campbell SUMMARY The applicant, Town of Vail, represented by Braun Associates is requesting a final recommendation to the Vail Town Council, for amendments to the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan that incorporate site specific recommendations for transit improvements at the Lionshead parking structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop. Staff recommends that the Commission forwards a recommendation of approval to the Town Council for the proposed amendments based on criteria and findings stated in Section VI of this memorandum. II. DESCRIPTION OF THE REQUEST The applicant, Town of Vail, represented by Braun Associates is proposing to incorporate site specific recommendations for transit improvements at the Lionshead parking structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop into the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan through the deletion and addition of text and figures. ► Fhe catalyst for the proposed amendments is the result of several decisions Y P P G :.1-, xe)6ge (hS which were made with regard to the development of the North Day Lot solely with ' 1 skier drop -off and employee housing. In 2008 and 2009 the Town participated in �If v W an exercise exploring the ability and costs of locating a fully functioning transit center on the North Day Lot in conjunction with Vail Resorts employee housing project. After an extensive process it was determined that the Town's finances were better focused on other opportunities with regard to transit improvements in Lionshead. The proposed text revisions include amendments to Chapters 4 and 5 of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan and are provided in Attachment A. Attachment A utilized a track changes function to identify the language which is proposed to be deleted in the right hand column of the page and the proposed text is shown in color. The difference in color is identifying for staff and our representative the changes made after multiple proof reading exercises. All colored text is the proposed language. Furthermore multiple figures were amended to illustrate the proposed changes that are included in the text. Again you will see a portion of the deleted figure in the right hand column and the proposed revised figure in its place. The applicant's representative will be providing a power point presentation which will go through the proposed language and figure amendments. III. BACKGROUND Throughout 2009 and the early months of 2010 the Town of Vail Public Works Department has been working with a consultant team to identify the function and cost of various transit options in the vicinity of the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop. This team has been interacting with the public and Town Council in developing the options which the property owner, Town of Vail, wishes to pursue. The proposed text amendments are a result of this process. To affect the conceptual ideas generated through this process amendments are necessary tot eh Master Plan prior to the design of the actual solutions. IV. ROLES OF THE REVIEWING BOARDS Plan Amendments Planning and Environmental Commission: The Planning and Environmental Commission shall review the proposal and make a recommendation to the Town Council on the consistency of the proposed amendment with applicable review criteria and the policies, goals and objectives outlined in the applicable master plan documents. Design Review Board The Design Review Board has no review authority on Plan amendments. Town Council The Town Council is responsible for final approval /denial of a Plan amendment. The Town Council shall review the proposal based on the consistency of the proposed amendment with applicable review criteria and the policies, goals and objectives outlined in the applicable master plan documents. V. APPLICABLE PLANNING DOCUMENTS Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan The relevant portions of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan are provided in Attachment A. VI. CRITERIA AND FINDINGS Staff believes the proposed Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan amendments, are consistent with the Town's goals, policies and objectives for the reasons listed under each criteria below. 1. Conditions have changed: As discussed previously in this memorandum the catalyst for the proposed amendments is the result of not incorporating any transit functions on the North Day Lot with the exception of skier drop -off. The North Day Lot was identified as the recommended location for a full service transit center in Lionshead which would offer the same services found at the Vail Village Transit Center. For a variety of reasons a transit center was not pursued on the North Day Lot. The Town of Vail has recognized a need to make improvements to the transit system in an effort to better the customer experience in visiting Vail. Those improvements have been identified as occurring best at the Lionshead parking structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop. Improvements being explored by the Town include skier drop -off on the western end of the parking structure on the lowest deck, Eco bus stops and a shelter along the north side of the parking structure, and improvemtns to the current bus stops on the eastern edge of Lionshead Village and Concert Hall Plaza. 2. The plan is in error: While the current Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan is not in error the decisions made with regard tot eh employee housing development ont he North Day Lot has necessitated a need to reexamine the Lionshead Village area to determine the most feasible location for transit improvements within Lionshead as the need is still present. Staff believes the specific recommendations are vital to addressing the need for transit improvements in Lionshead. The proposal will succeed in offer a better experience to our customers. 3. The addition of the transit improvement amendments is in concert with the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan: The proposed amendments are implementing a significant element contained within the initially adopted Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. The decisions made with regard to the North Day Lot did not eliminate the functions proposed for the site. Staff believes the proposed amendments will provide clear and specific guidance for the addressing of transit needs in Lionshead. VII. STAFF RECOMMENDATION The Community Development Department recommends that the Planning and Environmental Commission forward a recommendation of approval to the Vail Town Council based on the criteria and findings in Section VI of this memorandum. 3 Should the Planning and Environmental Commission choose to forward a recommendation of approval of this amendment request, the Community Development Department recommends the Commission makes the following motion: "The Planning and Environmental Commission forwards a recommendation of approval of amendments to the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan to incorporate recommendations for transportation improvements in Lionshead (generally located at the Lionshead Parking Structure and the Concert Hall Plaza bus stop) and setting forth details in regard thereto." Should the Planning and Environmental Commission choose to forward a recommendation of approval of this amendment request, the Community Development Department recommends the Planning and Environmental Commission makes the following findings: "(1) That conditions have changed since the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan was adopted; and (2) That the incorporation of the proposed transit amendments into the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan are in concert with the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. " VIII. ATTACHMENTS A. Proposed amendments to Chapters 4 and 5 of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan M CHAPTER 4: MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS - OVERALL STUDY AREA This section of the master plan addresses issues that affect Lionshead as a whole. These issues — and recommendations to address them - should be considered in all planning and policy decisions as Lionshead redevelops. 4.1 Underlying Physical Framework of Lionshead The Lionshead resort area (that portion of the study area north of Gore Creek) is a mixed -use urban environment with several discernible land -use sub -areas, or "hubs" (see Map N). Although the hubs overlap somewhat, there is no consistent and comprehensive pedestrian connection between them. The primary goal of the master plan is to create a visually interesting and functionally efficient pedestrian environment that connects the hubs to create a cohesive and memorable resort environment. 4.1.1 Lionshead Master Plan Concept Two primary pedestrian streets form the backbone of Lionshead's physical plan: an east - west corridor connecting Dobson Ice Arena with the west end of Lionshead and a north - south corridor connecting the proposed north day lot transportation center with the ski yard. The circulation system and new retail and lodging components will follow the underlying pattern set by these corridors (see Map T) and the entry portals associated with them. 4.1.2 East Lionshead - Civic Hub The civic hub of Lionshead is comprised of Dobson Ice Arena, the Vail public library, the Lionshead public parking structure, and the proposed Vail Civic Center site on the east end of the parking structure. Although this area also contains several lodging properties and may support office or retail development in the future, all planning and design decisions here should be respectful of and compatible with these civic components. 4.1.3 Resort Retail and Commercial Hub This area, also known as the Lionshead pedestrian core, is the heart of Lionshead and the epicenter of pedestrian and retail activity. A mixed -use environment, this area is comprised of retail shops, skier services, offices, residential units, and restaurants, but it has no coherent identity. More people access the mountain from here than from Vail village, yet the area experiences low retail sales and weak evening activity. Non - retail businesses in what should be a high volume retail environment further erode its retail potential. The priority for this area is to reinforce and enhance the identity of a premier destination resort. This requires higher quality retail activity, an active pedestrian environment, greater diversity of public spaces, and a focus on lodgings that reinforce activity. All planning and design decisions should further this goal. A priority need identified by the master plan is a high quality resort hotel in the Lionshead core to provide the dynamic infusion of people that will support a vibrant retail district. A corollary need is a more identifiable pedestrian portal into the Lionshead core from the 4 -1 west; the absence of a well - designed gateway from this side is a significant obstacle to the capture of the west Lionshead bed base by core area retailers. 4.1.4 Resort Lodging Hub This area of Lionshead is located just west of the Lionshead retail core and is comprised almost exclusively of high - density residential and lodging products. All future planning and design decisions in this area should work to reinforce the residential nature of the neighborhood and retain the sense of privacy desired by individual properties. New development in this area should aim for quieter pedestrian streets, well - defined pedestrian connections, more intensive landscaping and higher quality streetscape development. 4.1.5 West Lionshead - Residential/ Mixed -Use Hub West Lionshead includes the Vail Associates Service Yard, Holy Cross site, Vail Professional Building site, Cascade Crossings site, Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site and the Eagle River Water and Sanitation site. This area of Lionshead is generally under utilized and from an aesthetic standpoint is not in keeping with what the Town would like to see Lionshead become as it redevelops in the coming years. The Town of Vail does place a high value on maintaining the office and retail areas in West Lionshead and any redevelopment should reasonably increase the square footage of existing office and have "no net loss" of retail square footage in West Lionshead. With their recent acquisition of additional properties in this area, Vail Resorts has the opportunity to bring lift service to this part of Lionshead. Lift service brings with it great potential for the re- development of this area and in doing so expand all of Lionshead to the west with improved pedestrian connections, new retail and office activity and other improvements. While lift access will certainly energize this area during the winter months, attention should be given to creating a year -round attraction within this area of Lionshead (see detailed plan recommendations in Chapter 5) The master plan recommends that this hub become a residential/ mixed use area with an emphasis on meeting the needs of both the local community and our guests. Appropriate uses could include high density residential development, lodging, community and visitor based office and retail space, employee housing and parking, bus or transit functions and a ski lift connection to Vail Mountain. The catalyst for this mixed use hub is ski lift access to Vail Mountain. Consideration should be given to integrating employee housing into the redevelopment of West Lionshead in accordance with the Town's employee housing policies and regulations. To the extent possible development patterns in this area should reflect north -south orientation of buildings, visual penetrations to the mountain, and a pedestrian oriented environment. The degree of north -south building orientation may be difficult given the relatively narrow east -west orientation of this area. In addition, the introduction of ski lift access in this location creates a catalyst for an structured public parking facility. All service and delivery demands created by development in this area shall be accommodated on -site. 4 -2 The site will continue to accommodate the existing and potentially expanded functions of the Vail sanitation plant. The mountain service yard could be reduced in size, as some functions can be moved to less central locations. It may also be possible to relocate the entire mountain service yard to a new location in the West Lionshead area which would allow for greater flexibility in the redevelopment of this site. However as the area develops it is critical that new uses be connected to the primary pedestrian corridors and that they be served by the Town of Vail in -town transit system. 4.2 Connection to Vail Village The lack of connection between Lionshead and Vail Village was identified early in the master planning process. Although both West Meadow Drive and East Lionshead Circle connect the village to Lionshead, the pedestrian systems along this corridor are poor and the streetscape has no consistent visual character. The eastern entry to the Lionshead study area is at Middle Creek (at the Vail public library and Dobson Ice Arena), but the true entrance to the Lionshead retail core is at the western end of the Lionshead parking structure. Pedestrian connections should be sensitive to the residential uses on West Meadow Drive and East Lionshead Circle. It is also important that they be continuous from the intersection of Vail Road and East Meadow Drive in Vail to the west end of the parking structure in Lionshead. The Town of Vail Streetscape Master Plan recommendations for West Meadow Drive should be implemented in a way that is consistent in design and character with the entire Vail Village/ Lionshead connection. 4.3 Connections to the Natural Environment One of the outstanding characteristics of Vail Village is its spectacular visual connection to Vail Mountain, particularly the protected view corridors up Bridge Street from the village parking structure and toward the Gore Range from East Meadow Drive. Over the years the village has also strengthened its physical connections to the natural environment by improving creekside parks and trails and by integrating landscape into the built environment at every opportunity. Lionshead has no similarly strong connection to the natural environment even though it is situated even closer to the base of the mountain. To remedy this critical deficiency, the following recommendations are made: 4.3.1 Visual Connections As development and redevelopment occur in Lionshead, it will be vital to protect visual connections to the ski mountain. These visual relationships strengthen the identity of Lionshead as an alpine resort and provide a visual reference that helps Lionshead visitors to find their way through the core. Visual connections to the natural environment should be established utilizing the following techniques: 4.3.1.1 View Corridors Creating and establishing view corridors is an effective way to link the urban core of Lionshead visually to the natural environment of Gore Creek and the mountain. The master plan is recommending the creation of several dedicated public view corridors. In addition, all private development and redevelopment should endeavor to create visual connections from and through their properties. 4 -3 I View corridors do not have to be expansive to be effective. In many cases, a slender but well targeted view corridor can be just as effective as a broad view. Nor do visual connections have to be continuous; they can reoccur, providing intermittent views from different angles. 4.3.1.2 North -South Orientation of Buildings The predominant east -west orientation of buildings in Lionshead acts as a visual and physical barrier, interrupting the connection to the natural environment. It should be a priority in future development and redevelopment to orient vertical building masses along a north -south axis whenever possible. This will help to accomplish the following objectives: a. Sun Access During the winter months, the sun is low in the southern sky, providing the greatest solar exposure to the south faces of buildings and to streets and spaces open to the south. A north -south orientation of building masses will increase the amount of sun reaching the Lionshead pedestrian core and the buildings to the north. b. Views from New Buildings In double loaded buildings oriented on an east -west axis, units on the south side of the building get great views of the mountain, but units on the north side do not. Orienting the building mass on a north -south line creates angled southern views for both sides of the building, and units on both sides will get direct sun sometime during the day. c. Views from Existing Buildings Public input throughout the master planning process indicated that existing property owners in Lionshead are concerned that new development will block their private views to the mountain. By orienting new buildings on a north -south axis, the potential visual impact on existing buildings is reduced. d. Creation of Streets A strong view corridor in the Vail Village is Bridge Street. The orientation of the street toward the mountain provides a constant sense of direction and draws people to the destination at the top of the street. Likewise, the proposed north -south orientation of buildings in Lionshead will help to create streets oriented to the views, something that is almost completely lacking today. 4.3.2 Physical Connections Physical connections to the natural environment are essential to the experiential quality of a mountain resort. There are several ways to achieve a physical connection in addition to creating north -south oriented streets: 4-4 4.3.2.1 Landscape and Greenbelt Corridors Wherever possible the natural landscape of the Gore Creek corridor should be allowed to penetrate into the more urbanized portions of Lionshead (see Map O). This will open up access points to the Gore Creek corridor, enhance the quality of individual properties, and improve the image of Lionshead as an alpine resort. 4.3.2.2 Skier Bridge The skier bridge is the primary existing connection between Lionshead and the south side of Gore Creek. It is too narrow and enclosed, and could be much more dramatic in design. The replacement of the skier bridge, as both a skier and a pedestrian connection, should be a priority. This is a major opportunity to replace a weak architectural element with a significant landmark. 4.3.2.3 Access to the South Side of Gore Creek In addition to the skier bridge, one additional footbridge connects the Lionshead core to the south side of Gore Creek. An opportunity exists to create a significant connection between the ski yard and the beautiful lowland area south of Gore Creek. Regarding this area, the following recommendations are made: a. Preservation of Natural Character Any recreational use in this area must be subordinate to the preservation of the natural environment and its inherent character. b. Creation of a Low - Impact Trail System A consolidated trail system to prevent further degradation of this area by social trails is needed. Asphalt paving or other, more urbanized paving systems are environmentally and visually inappropriate. Interpretive signage and educational opportunities should be considered as part of any recreational improvements. Trail systems should have provisions for seating and waste disposal. c. Connection to the Riparian Environment The extension of low - impact trails to the water's edge is encouraged, creating safe, designated areas for adults and children to get their feet wet and interact with the creek. The safety of users must be a primary concern in design. 4.4 Public View Corridors On May 20, 1997, recognizing the importance of visual connections, the Vail Town Council approved the use of the existing Town of Vail view corridor ordinance to designate the first protected public view corridors in Lionshead. In order to qualify for protection under the Town's ordinance, a view corridor must meet the following criteria: a. Is the view critical to the identity, civic pride, and sense of place of Lionshead? A nice view is not sufficient. b. Is the view seen from a widely used, publicly accessible viewpoint? Views from private property cannot be recognized or protected by this ordinance. 4 -5 c. Is the view threatened? Is there a possibility that development on nearby property would block the view? It is critical to note that the following recommended public view corridors will create a development constraint that will work with all other applicable development and regulatory guidelines and standards. The suggested location and outline of any view corridor is not intended to create a "build -to" line for a vertical architectural edge that would not be allowed under other applicable guidelines and standards. According to these criteria and following an intensive public input process, protection of the following public view corridors is recommended (see Map O): 4.4.1 Public View Corridors Protected under the Town of Vail View Corridor Ordinance It is proposed that two legally protected view corridors be established according to existing Town of Vail code: 4.4.1.1 View Corridor One This view corridor (see figure 4 -1) is seen from the west end of the Lionshead parking structure, standing at street level at the main pedestrian exit and looking southwest toward the gondola lift line. This view fulfills the following criteria: a. It fosters civic pride and is central to the identity of Lionshead b. It is taken from a commonly used, publicly accessible viewpoint. This area is the primary point of entry for pedestrian traffic from the parking structure and is also the primary Lionshead transit stop. c. It is potentially threatened by redevelopment in the foreground of the view. Figure 4 -1: Public View Corridor One 4 -6 4.4.1.2 View Corridor Two This view corridor (see figure 4 -2) is seen from the pedestrian plaza at the east end of the Lifthouse Lodge, looking south directly up the gondola lift line. This view fulfills the following criteria: a. It fosters civic pride and is central to the identity of Lionshead. b. It is taken from a commonly used, publicly accessible viewpoint. The mountain view from this point is currently very broad, crossing much of the Vail Associates core site. As part of the redevelopment of the Vail Associates core site this view corridor should become narrower and more focused on the new gondola terminal. Given the current lack of a defining architectural edge, the dimensions of this corridor should roughly correspond to the suggested view boundaries outlined in figure 4 -2. A c.. 9 4.4.2 Public View Corridors Where Redevelopment of the Viewpoint or the Foreground is Likely It is proposed that the following three views be established as critical design parameters, but not as benchmarked and surveyed corridors. The extent to which an applicant for redevelopment creates or maintains these views will be a consideration for approval or disapproval by the reviewing board. Prior to approval of a redevelopment application by the Town Council the new view corridor should be surveyed and formally adopted in accordance with existing Town code. 4 -7 Figure 4 -2: Public View Corridor Two 4.4.2.1 View Corridor Three Figure 4 -3: Public View Corridor Three 4.4.2.2 View Corridor Four 2 This view, seen from the southeast corner of the north day lot, looks south over the Vail Associates core site toward the ski slopes (see figure 4 -4). In designating this view, the intent is to ensure that future development on the Vail Associates core site retains an upper -level visual connection to the mountain and the gondola lift line. Protection of this view corridor ensures that visitors will be able to see the Gore Creek corridor and the mountain when they arrive at the new transit center, much as one sees Pepi's Face from the bottom of Bridge Street. 4.4.2.3 View Corridor Five The intent of this view (see figure 4 -5) is to provide both a visual and physical pedestrian connection through the Vail Associates core site to the ski yard. As seen from the main Lionshead plaza, this view will be framed by the architecture of the retail environment, not a panorama of the ski mountain. 4 - s This view is from the east end of the Lionshead parking structure looking south across the Lodge at Lionshead buildings toward the ski mountain (see figure 4 -3). This site has been identified for future development as a civic facility; when that happens, this view may become more important. 4 -9 Figure 4 -4: Public View Corridor Four Figure 4 -5: Public View Corridor Five 4.5 Public Transportation An efficient transit system is critical to the character and environmental quality of any pedestrian- oriented resort. It is also assumed that as growth and redevelopment continues in the Lionshead area an expansion of existing transit facilities will be necessary. In 2009 the Town of Vail completed the Lionshead Transit Station project. While this study address a number of transit, transit related functions (skier drop -off, loading, hotel shuttles, charter buses, etc.), and other related master plan goals (inviting portals, pedestrian experience, etc.) the focus of this effort was to define a solution for establishing a central transit station within the Lionshead area. A "model" for a central station would be the transportation center in Vail Village. By way of comparison, transit operations in Lionshead are dispersed throughout the area and lacking the efficiency's of the Vail Village center. Transit station facilities necessary to accommodate in -town shuttles, local buses and ECO buses were assessed base on both near term and longterm needs. It was determined that over the near Deleted: next seen to ten y ears tern between 9 and 11 bus bays will be needed and that in the Jong term up to 12 to 14 bus bays_ _ _ Deleted: next 20 y ears could be necessM (Lionshead Transit Study, LSC 2009). Given the existing "built condition" of Lionshead there are no perfect solutions for a transit station from either the standpoint of location or cost. For these reasons phased approach for_ - Deleted: it was decided to implement transit station improvements is appropriate. , Deleted: that will address Lionshead's near term transit needs. I Goals identified by the master plan regarding transit include: Insetted: that will address Lionshead's near term transit needs. I 4.5.1 Connection to West Lionshead West Lionshead consists of the Vail Associates Service Yard, Holy Cross site, Vail Professional Building site, Cascade Crossings site, Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site and the Eagle River Water and Sanitation site. Because it is an area of potentially significant growth, it is important that it be fully integrated into the Town of Vail transit system. The West Lionshead properties are at the outside edge of the acceptable walking distance to the ski yard (1200 feet). With a mixed use development in the area which integrates a ski portal, retail space, office space and residential development, transit service to this area and interconnections to other portals will be critical to develop in the future. In addition, the update of the Vail Transportation Master Plan and the 2009 Lionshead Transit Study shall provide direction on the ultimate location of a Lionshead Transit Facility along with needed interconnections between ski portals, regional transit stops, and other transportation modes. The addition of a ski lift in this area would make this area more viable to redevelopment as it would be within the acceptable walking distance of a lift (1,200 feet). 4.5.2 Maximum Efficiency and Utilization The following recommendations are made to enhance the efficiency and functionality of the Lionshead transit connections in anticipation of future redevelopment in the area: 4 -10 4.5.2.1 ftJona-1 Transit Stop_ - _ - Structure. Of these alternatives the preferred location is the Lionshead Parking Structure. The Structure is well -sited from a locational standpoint, allows for convenient connections with shuttles, local and in -town bus routes, and may allow for the phased development of a transit station that can respond to Lionshead's transit needs over time. Affordable housing (in lieu of a transit center) was deemed to be the preferred use for the North Day lot and the west Lionshead area was considered too remote from the rest of Lionshead to be a suitable location for a centralized transit center Notwithstanding the above, facilities for skier drop -off, private shuttle vans, �gional_buses (ECO)._charter buses and the Vail In -Town bus, as defined by the West Lionshead Transit Study (LSC, 2009). should be included in the design of the ski lift and narking facilitv at West Lionshead. ------------------------------ 4.5.2.2 oncert Hall Plaza Atq The eliminatitm of the Concert Hall stop would free up space needed to implement a meaningful redevelopment of Concert Hall Plaza and create a better western portal to the Lionshead core (as more thoroughly described in section 5.10.2) However, the transit and loading/short-term parking provided in this location provide an important service to this part of Lionshead. Any redevelopment of the Concert Hall Plaza or Montaneros will need to address these transit and other related functions. 4.5.2.3 The North Day Lot--_________ __ _____ - _ ------------------- A new Town of Vail transit stop at the proposed dispersed transportation center on the north day lot of uld replace _the_existing_stop_atConcert Hall Plaza. Likely to be on the west Vail transit routes, this stop will coordinate' with the regional bus stop and deliver west Vail transit riders to the newly created north Lionshead pedestrian portal. The North Day lot presents a location for two important! communi based - '+ uses — a transit center and affordable housing. It has been determined that this site is most suited for housing and transit related functions on this site should be limited to skier drop -off and potentially short-term parkin loading functions. 4.5.2.4 Transit Station at Lionshead Parking Structure/Frontage Road The Lionshead Transit Study completed in 2009 (See appendix X) concluded that the Lionshead Parking Structure presents the most viable location for a 4 -11 Deleted: Relocate the Deleted: It is recommended that the Lionshead regional transit stop, currently located at the Lionshead Place cul -de -sac, be relocated. Insetted:. Alternative locations considered for a regional transit station include the North Day Lot, the Deleted: w Inserted: west Lionshead area and the Lionshead Parking Structure. Deleted: In addition, visitors and employees coming to Lionshead by regional bus will arrive at a defined portal instead of the current "back door" on Lionshead Place. Formatted: Left Deleted: . Inserted:. Notwithstanding the above, facilities for skier drop -off, private shuttle vans Deleted: and Town of Vail in -town buses Formatted: Font: (Default) Times N ew Roman, 12 pt Formatted: Font color: Auto Deleted: to the proposed North Day Lot, the Lionshead parking structure, and West Lionshead. This will provide a Lionshead connection between the regional transit system and the Town of Vail transit system. In addition, visitors and employees coming to Lionshead by regional bus will arrive at a defined portal instead of the current "back door" on Lionshead Place. Finally, this will remove the large regional buses from West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place. It may be possible to locate elements of a regional transit stop in the West Lionshead area in conjunction with a new ski lift and parking facility. D e l eted: Elimin t Deleted: The existing bus stop at Concert Hall Plaza is underutilized Deleted: will Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" Deleted: Create a New Stop at Deleted: t Deleted: Transportation Center Deleted: will Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.75" Deleted: , albeit conflicting Formatted: Indent: Left: 2" Formatted: Indent: Left: 1 ", Hanging: 0.75" centralized transit station in Lionshead. In order to address the near -term transit needs an initial phase is recommended that includes a transit stop along the Frontage Road immediately north of the structure. This solution has minimal impacts on the parking structure, can be implemented at a relatively low cost and will meet Lionshead's anticipated transit needs for the near term future. As a long term solution, the Transit Center should be integrated within the Lionshead Parking Structure site, either within a new redevelopment, as contemplated in the 2006 Lionshead Parking Structure Redevelopment Plan, or on top of a future reconstruciton of a Lionshead Parking Structure. Transit requirements should be met as outlined within the 2009 Lionshead Transit Study_ ----------------------------------------------- .. wit �.. • • Ar r' VA INIP T V Figure 4-6a - Lionshead Transit Center on top deck of Parking Structure t Deleted: (2009 Deleted: ) - Inserted: )I . + S .1 ltr. 1 ' :,- t r- 4. Figure 4 -6a - Formatted: Font: Bold, Font color: Sea Green Formatted: Font: Bold, Font color: Sea Green 4 -12 Formatted: Indent: First line: 0.5° Svw 4 i, �� �"�� '', A•_ .:I_Yr . w►1"� tom'. r 1k.� I L r.. t- NSHEAD PAP.M() � -'`�' • � STRUCTURE /s....4 ►'t. �. y„y t� �► ♦: ti � � �� �►.. ti� � `y � 1` it's'`. Lti �'► 4 tl Figure 4 -6b - Frontage road eco stop 4.5.3 Addressing Existing Problems 4.5.3.1 Vehicle -Bus Conflicts Potential conflicts between vehicular traffic and transit buses should be addressed as streets are redesigned and engineered. Conflicts are most likely at intersections, transit stops, and any location where vehicular traffic could back up and block the bus lane. 4.5.3.2 Dobson Ice Arena Stop There are periodic conflicts between pedestrians and buses at the Dobson/ public library bus stops. This problem is particularly severe when events at Dobson ice arena bring large numbers of pedestrians into the bus drop -off area. Potential solutions include the reconfiguration of the Dobson drop -off area and the creation of a secondary bus stop at the western end of Dobson +L1 f T 4 -13 arena. A west Dobson transit stop would operate in conjunction with the potential development of a Town of Vail civic center on the existing bus/RV lot, as well the utilization of the west entry to the arena as the primary access for special events. (The latter would greatly reduce the pedestrian-bus conflicts occurring today in front of Dobson arena.) 4.5.33 East Lionshead Circle and South Frontage Road Intersection The intersection of the South Frontage Road and East Lionshead Circle is a severe problem for Lionshead transit service. The first problem with this intersection is the steep approach gradient, making it difficult in severe weather for the bus to turn onto the South Frontage Road. The second issue, often exacerbated by the first, is the left turn movement across traffic onto the frontage road. There is no easy solution to this problem. Reduction of vehicular traffic on East Lionshead Circle would decrease competition for openings in the frontage road traffic, but this is only a partial solution. Other mitigating measures could include the following: a. Gradient Reduction of the gradient at the intersection can be accomplished by lowering the entire intersection or by increasing the approach gradient of East Lionshead Circle. Either would create a level platform where buses can wait to make a left turn into traffic. b. Roundabout The construction of a roundabout at this intersection would slow traffic on the frontage road, ease the left turn movement from East Lionshead Circle, and reduce the stacking of westbound vehicles waiting to make a left turn onto East Lionshead Circle. However, the spatial requirements of a roundabout, as well as its proximity to the eastbound lane of I -70, will make this solution difficult. c. Signalization Traffic signals are extremely unpopular in Vail (there are none at present). However, a special use signal triggered only by approaching transit buses might be considered to facilitate their movements. d. Acceleration and Deceleration Lanes As shown in figure 4 -6, there is the opportunity to create westbound and eastbound acceleration and deceleration lanes. With a dedicated left turn lane and westbound acceleration lane, buses will have less competition for breaks in traffic and will only be required to cross the eastbound traffic lane. e. Removal of Transit from the Frontage Road The frontage road section between East and West Lionshead Circle is the only portion of the Town of Vail in -town transit route on the frontage road. Frontage road traffic and the difficulty in making left turns cause frequent delays in transit service. The route could be modified in several ways: 4 -14 Create a parallel transit lane on the south side of the South Frontage Road (see figure 4 -8). Although physically feasible, this alternative would require the acquisition of land from adjacent lodging properties currently used for parking, an action these property owners would likely resist. A dedicated transit lane would also exacerbate conflicts at intersections and lodging driveways. Create a new underground transit corridor between the North Day Lot and East Lionshead Circle. This option should be pursued with the cooperation of property owners when and if the properties in this area redevelop. Terminating, the in -town shuttle bus route at the East Lionshead drop -off_ - ------------------- - - - - -- - ------------------------------- (see figure 4 -7) was suggested as an alternative to consider in the original Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. This idea was re- visited during the 2009 Lionshead Transit Station project. Due to strong public input to maintain in -town shuttle service to the western side of Lionshead this idea was not pursued. In the future it may be desirable to have the ability (for operational purposes) for buses to turn around on East Lionshead Circle at the east entry to Lionshead. The re- design of the east entry to Lionshead should not preclude the possibility of this turning movement being accommodated at some point in the future. --------------------------------------------------- ------------------ ---- - - - - -- 4.53.4 East Lionshead Circle Skier Drop Off Lionshead is lacking sufficient, well - located skier drop off facilities. For many years residents and Quests have been using the East Lionshead Circle area at the pedestrian entry to Lionshead to drop off and pick up skiers. This "illegal" activity is cause for much of the congestion, confusion and pedestrian conflicts in this area. Efforts should be made to provide alternative locations for convenient and accessible skier drop off. Possibilities include the North Day Lot and the Lionshead Parking Structure. 4.5.4 Future Considerations The average life span of a Town of Vail transit bus is approximately twelve years. Given the evolving and changing nature of transit systems, new transit technologies and opportunities should be considered. Several future technology issues warrant consideration by the master plan: 4.5.4.1 Alternative Local Transit Systems One complaint with the existing Vail transit system is the noise and exhaust associated with diesel buses. As the existing bus fleet ages, alternative technologies such as electric people movers and light rail should be considered. 4.5.4.2 Regional Rail System In 1996, Union Pacific Railroad applied for abandonment of its Tennessee Pass rail corridor through Minturn west to Dotsero. The potential Deleted: e Deleted: If done, this action may necessitate increasing the frequency of service on the West Vail routes serving Lionshead.Q Deleted: - - - - -- Page Break------ - Inserted: ------ Page Break ------ Formatted: Heading 4 Deleted: Concert Hall Plazalt is recommended that the existing Concert Hall Plaza transit stop be eliminated.¶ Fotmatted: Indent: Left: 1.75 ", Tabs: 1.19 ", Left Formatted: Tabs: 1.19 ", Left 4 -15 abandonment of this line sparked many ideas about the future use of the corridor, including the concept of an Eagle Valley commuter rail connection between the Eagle Airport and Vail. If this commuter rail connection were to occur, it would be a regional, county-wide transit system, not a local connector. The extreme cost of such a rail connection would warrant the creation of a major transit stop in Vail, such as in the I -70 corridor and/ or above the interstate. Such a solution should be pursued in contrast to incorporating the rail connection into either the existing Vail Transportation Center or the proposed North Day Lot transportation center. The primary challenges for a Vail Valley commuter rail connection are the high cost, the difficult physical connection through Dowd Junction, and the availability of a conveniently located site for a stop in Vail. 4 -16 4 -17 "IN TOWN" TRANSIT ROUTE POTENTIAL TERMINATION OF Rbt AT FAST LIONSHEAD PMESTR1AN VVI LA- it �. 1�a'i ►' �r - � � � �, r p ti• _ �' � '.' ,;fit: • ; �� + � 'f ` -- . . -�; C�J y ✓` 4�.• s• VA. � rat• � ��� ` Figure 4 -7 - 7Yansa Route Teruunauun at East Lkwhead PedemlHax PoW Note: The feasibility of terminating the In Town Transit route at the East Lionshead Portal was dis- cussed during the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study. It was determined at that time that the In Town route should continue to service the Marriott and Concert Hall Plaza stops. 4 -18 �r 4, 1 1 14 ��j~ Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5 ", First line: 0.5" WEST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE LANDMARK WESTWIND VANTAGE POINT EAST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE Figure 4-8 . Potential Transit Point Parallel to South Frontage Road 4 +� v 4 -19 4.6 Vehicular and Pedestrian Circulation 4.6.1 Interstate Highway 70 I -70 is the primary vehicular circulation corridor for the Vail Valley and is critically important to the economic health of the Vail community. It does, however, create both a visual and physical division between the south and north sides of Vail, as well as consuming a significant amount of land. As Vail continues to grow over time it is strongly recommended that the ideas of potentially burying or bridging I -70 through the Town of Vail be studied and the potential benefits and impacts considered. Specifically, consideration should be given to securing the air -rights over 1 -70 so that future development and circulation scenarios are not precluded. 4.6.2 South Frontage Road Recommendations outlined below address potential re- alignment of portions of the frontage road, ingress and egress improvements, bicycle/ pedestrian improvements, and visual improvements. For a detailed discussion of capacity and the impacts of future development on the frontage road, see the traffic impact study contained in appendix A. Figure 4 -9 depicts potential redevelopment without the realignment of the Frontage Road while Figure 4 -9a depicts redevelopment with a partial realignment of the Frontage Road. 4.6.2.1 Potential Realignment The concept of realigning the South Frontage Road at the western end of the study area grew out of public discussions about land development and traffic flow in West Lionshead. Relative to traffic flow, realignment will remove the conflict that now exists between through -traffic and mountain service vehicles (snow -cats and snowmobiles) entering and exiting the Vail Associates service yard. Realignment will position the road to the north of most new development, thus reducing the potential for conflicting turning movements. Regarding future land use, the realignment of South Frontage Road will allow the west day lot and the service yard to be combined into a contiguous development parcel. This is an important consideration for the development conceptually depicted in figure 4 -9a, and it would be necessary if the service yard property is used for a secondary public parking facility or other uses. Any existing parking on the West Day Lot must be replaced within the Lionshead study area. Through the Transportation Master Plan update it is anticipated that a significant traffic control device will need to be installed in the West Lionshead area. Such a device may include a round about. Specific considerations regarding realignment are: a. Proposed Alignment The proposed realignment of the South Frontage Road is depicted in figure 4 -9a. Critical design issues include the width of the road and the radius of 4 -20 the curves. Both of these factors will be important in reducing the speed of vehicles entering the Lionshead area and the amount of land consumed by the two curved road sections. Cooperation between property owners, developers, the Town of Vail, and the Colorado Department of Transportation will be necessary to implement the realignment of the Frontage Road. b. West Lionshead Circle Connection It is proposed that West Lionshead Circle connect back to the frontage road at the west side of the Vail Spa. The alignment depicted in figure 4 -9a terminates perpendicular to the frontage road and does not require the acquisition of private property. A new parcel of developable land, suitable for offices or non -resort retail, would be created on the southeast corner of this intersection. c. Forest Road Connection Forest Road could be realigned to cross through the newly created development parcel, providing access to that site and connecting at right angles to the frontage road. Another alternative that should be considered is to connect Forest Road to West Lionshead Circle via the existing Frontage Road right -of -way. d. Transit and Emergency Vehicle Corridor A transit and emergency vehicle corridor should remain in the existing alignment of the frontage road. This connection is necessary to provide a through - transit route to the west end of Lionshead and also keeps in place the existing utility corridor. e. Feasibility of Realignment The ability to realign the frontage road will be heavily influenced by costs, CDOT (Colorado Department of Transportation), and the Federal highway administration. Future west Lionshead developments will require significant upgrades and widening of South Frontage Road, potentially including the widening or reconstruction of the bridge over Red Sandstone Creek. The cost of realigning the frontage road is in addition to the mandatory costs of improving the road. f. Future Frontage Road Re- alignment The opportunity may exist to re- locate the Frontage Road the full length of the West Lionshead planning area. The benefit of this alternative would be to eliminate the "Frontage Road barrier" between the Holy Cross site and the Vail Professional Building. While this alternative would require coordination with other surrounding land owners, it could warrant further study and evaluation in the future. �I - -- Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" 4 -21 4.6.2.2 Road Improvements to Handle Increased Traffic Volume The potential expansion of the Lionshead bed base and the corresponding increases in traffic volumes will necessitate traffic mitigation measures. Increased road width, acceleration/ deceleration lanes, and perhaps roundabouts may be required in conjunction with new development. These improvements are described in the traffic impact study, attached as appendix A. It is important to note that the potential widening of the frontage road depicted in the overall masterplan graphic is not necessarily the best or required solution. It is a potential solution but the final design of road improvements will need to consider not only the traffic volume requirements but visual impacts and community preferences as well. 4.6.2.3 Provision for Bicycles and Pedestrians A pedestrian/ bicycle path should be created on the south side of the frontage road running the entire length of the Lionshead study area. Providing an unbroken pedestrian/ bicycle path to connect the main Vail roundabout to Cascade Village, this pathway will conform to the current Town of Vail standards regarding width and material. 4.6.2.4 Visual Improvements It is essential that improvements for better traffic flow be accompanied with aesthetic improvements in order to break up the perceived width of the improved roadway and to give a stronger image to this north edge of Lionshead (see figure 6 -5). Improvements could include landscaped medians and a consistent landscape treatment between the South Frontage Road and the eastbound lane of I -70. Fragile understory plantings should be avoided in favor of street trees and hardy ground covers that can survive winter snowplowing activities. This corridor should also include new directional signage, described in section 4.10.1.1 4.6.3 Modification to East Lionshead Circle The overriding goal for East Lionshead Circle is to de- emphasize vehicular traffic and create a quality, safe, and vibrant pedestrian corridor. Specific recommendations are as follows: 4.6.3.1 Eastern Connection to South Frontage Road A prerequisite for improving safety in the pedestrian crossing between the Lionshead parking structure and the eastern entrance to the Lionshead retail core is a significant reduction in the volume of vehicular traffic (except for transit, emergency vehicles, and adjacent residents). It was initially thought that the most effective means to accomplish this would be to connect East Lionshead Circle back to the frontage road on the east end of the parking structure. However, there are several serious problems. 4 -22 s IMP i Z a w o mZ w Q 4 � N Q a Z Q Q x m Z N a : w � � w 3 a W a o t N x o a F u 0 . 7 Q y o 0 - z z a a V n V a 4 -23 o i Z a w o mZ w Q 4 � N Q a Z Q Q x m Z N a : w � � w 3 a W a o t N x o a F u 0 . 7 Q y o 0 - z z a a V n V a 4 -23 W V Z < 2 m ~ < Q Z � N ` Q � W x � N F ~ W o t V) x o 8 m p LL 0 V 0 IL W o < $ u N = W Z W 0 Q Z Y K 0 K a s V in U a + N W 1 � 4 -24 a. Gradient The biggest hurdle is a 34 -foot rise between the frontage road and the cul -de- sac at the east end of the parking structure. This would result in a gradient approaching 9 percent on the connecting road segment. b. Traffic Conflicts An increase in the volume of traffic using the new connection would likely trigger a significant intersection upgrade at the frontage road (acceleration/ deceleration lanes, center turn lanes, or a roundabout). Relocation of the parking entrance to the north side of the structure might alleviate some of these concerns. c. Transit Conflicts Connection of the street to the frontage road could introduce a new point of conflict between cars and buses at the driveway down to the Library and Dobson Arena, especially if a vehicular drop -off point is introduced at the west end of Dobson. As an element of the 2009 Lionshead Transit Station Project the feasibility of creating an eastern connection of East Lionshead Circle to the Frontage Road was evaluated. The conclusion of this evaluation was that the existing - gradient and land ownership patterns of this idea to be infeasible. The idea of an east connection could be reconsidered if _ownership _patterns _- ----------- --- - - - - -- changed or in conjunction with the redevelopment of Vail International. 4.6.3.2 West (Current) Entrance As the eastern connection appears unfeasible, it is recommended that other measures be undertaken to de- emphasize the current (west) entrance to East Lionshead Circle as a vehicular portal into Lionshead. The only traffic entering East Lionshead Circle at this point should be service vehicles, buses, and local residents. Signage, road width, and other roadway design modifications should be utilized to discourage traffic from entering at this point. These measures are important to reduce conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians at the crossing from the parking structure and to reduce the outgoing traffic that competes with the buses for the left -turn movement onto the South Frontage Road. Deleted: I Inserted: I This congested and confused pedestrian portal is the area most in need of Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" corrective action. It is recommended that vehicular traffic through this crossing be removed or greatly reduced and that skier drop -off, local and regional shuttle vans, and service and delivery vehicles be removed from this location. The area would then be dedicated to two primary uses: a pedestrian connection between the parking structure and Lionshead and a transit stop for the Town of Vail in -town shuttle. 4.6.3.3 Main Lionshead Pedestrian Portal Deleted: east outlet for East Lionshead Circle Deleted: outlet Deleted: I 4 -25 4.6.3.4 Visual Improvements As an important link in the transit connection between Vail Road and the east Lionshead pedestrian portal, East Lionshead Circle plays an important role in setting the visual tone and character for people arriving from Vail village. Toward that end, any architectural additions to the south face of the parking structure should comply fully with the architectural design guidelines, and the pedestrian walkway should create a consistent visual character connecting Dobson Arena with the east Lionshead pedestrian portal. In addition, it is recommended that the Town of Vail coordinate with the adjacent residential properties to provide a visually consistent vegetative screen on the south side of East Lionshead Circle. 4.6.3.5 Pedestrian Sidewalks A new, more intensively developed pedestrian walkway is recommended along the south face of the parking structure to connect the main Lionshead pedestrian portal with the Dobson/ Civic center pedestrian plaza. This walkway will provide access to the potential new retail face of the parking structure and permit unimpeded pedestrian flow between the two ends of the parking structure (see figure 6 -6). Given the long and linear nature of this fagade, a covered arcade across the walkway, as suggested during the master plan public input process, may help to break it up. If covered, the walkway should be wide enough to accommodate the flow of pedestrian traffic along the retail face and designed as an integral element of the building. 4.6.4 Modifications to West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place currently handle the heaviest load of lodging access and delivery traffic in Lionshead and will likely continue to do so. The recommended improvements to these roads are both aesthetic and functional, working to provide for safe and efficient vehicular traffic while also insuring a safe pedestrian environment visually consistent with the overall goals of the master plan. 4.6.4.1 East Intersection of W. Lionshead Circle and S. Frontage Road This intersection will experience the greatest increase in traffic volume due to the projected increase in lodging units and the proposed north day lot transit center. Mitigation measures may be required, as outlined in the traffic study (see appendix A). 4.6.4.2 Intersection of Lionshead Place and West Lionshead Circle Due to the projected volume of lodging traffic that will be accessing Lionshead Place (Monteneros, Antlers, Lionsquare Lodge, and the Vail Associates core site), it is recommended that this intersection be realigned so the primary through - traffic axis is north -south (see figure 4 -10). West Lionshead Circle would form a T- intersection at the northeast comer of the Marriott. In addition to facilitating traffic flow, this realignment will create a 4 -26 much safer, logical pedestrian crossing from West Lionshead Circle into the Lionshead pedestrian core. 4.6.4.3 Pedestrian Sidewalks and Crossings A series of primary and secondary pedestrian walks should be created connecting the West Lionshead area with the Lionshead core, the frontage road, and the ski yard. These walks and crosswalks are identified on Map Q and Map T. 4.6.4.4 Visual Improvements As the road systems and adjacent lodging properties in west Lionshead are upgraded it is critical that a consistent visual character be developed through the design of new pedestrian walkways, landscaping, retaining walls, lighting, and site furnishings. For further information on these systems, see chapter six, Site Design Guidelines. 4.6.5 Forest Road The primary goal for Forest Road is to maintain and enhance its residential character by mitigating present or future uses that would detract from this character. Specific recommendations are as follows: 4.6.5.1 Mountain Service Access Issues Forest Road currently plays an important role in mountain service access, both during the summer and winter. It was made clear during the public input phase of the master plan process that the adjacent property owners are deeply concerned about the winter activity of snowcats on Forest Road and would like to see this operation removed. While mountain access must be provided for, the removal of this winter traffic from Forest Road should be a priority for the Town of Vail and Vail Associates. A potential solution is to bridge Gore Creek just west of the old Town shops and construct a road that connects to the existing "Cascade Ho" ski trail. Previous studies have shown that a connecting road across the forested slope could have serious visual impacts because of the extreme cross -slope gradient and resultant cut and fill requirements. It is also likely that the Cascade Village property owners would resist this alternative. If this approach is to be implemented, visual mitigation of the new connecting road must be an important consideration. 4.6.5.2 Pedestrian Connections A pedestrian and bicycle path should be created along the east side of Forest Road (north of Gore Creek) to provide a connection to the Gore Creek recreation path. 4 -27 4.6.5.3 Realignment of South Frontage Road If the South Frontage Road is re- aligned, Forest Road likewise may be realigned as a point of access for the redeveloped west end of Lionshead. As shown in figure 4 -9, it is recommended that the section of Forest Road north of Gore Creek be the primary access for new lodging developments in west Lionshead. Realignment will consolidate the access points from South Frontage Road and remove the existing conflict between Forest Road vehicular traffic and mountain service traffic exiting the Vail Associates service yard. 4 -28 LIONSQUARE LODGE NORTH PROPERTY — MONTANEROS LIONSHEAD PLACE WEST LIONSiEAD CIRCLE SECONDARY PLTDES Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" Deleted: I MARRIOTT j t -. Fw e PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN WALK PEDESTRIAN CROSSP.VG REDFMOPED CONCERT HALL PLAZA Figure4 -1& Arerseenanoftimshead Place and West Note: Potential redevelopment of the Concert Hall Plaza contemplates the removal of transit transit stop /short -term drop off and loading facilities and the use of Town -owned land to implement this red opment. The feasibility of removing these facilities adjacent to the Concert I ]all Plaza location was t aced during the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study and it was determined that these facilities should remain in place. Any redevelopment of Concert Hall Plaza will need to address these transit and loae uses. 4 6.� Simba Run Underpass ------------------------------ - - - - -- , C' --------------------------------------------------- Currently the Town of Vail has only two north/south access points between the North Frontage Road and South Frontage Road between Main Vail and West Vail. It has been contemplated that an additional north/south connection be established west of Cascade I Crossing. The need for this underpass will be accelerated as a result of the Town's Delet ore New Deleted: 7 4 -29 4.7 redevelopment plans for Timber Ridge, West Vail and West Lionshead. The redevelopment of the West Lionshead area should be done in a manner that encourages this new connection to be established in the future. It is recommended that the proposed amendments to the Vail Transportation Master Plan provide direction on when public improvements on the Frontage Road need to occur and how they are paid for between public and private funds. The current boundaries of the Lionshead Urban Renewal Authority should be amended to include the location of the Simba Run underpass. Loading and Delivery 4.7.1 Properties with Direct Service Access As a general rule, properties that can provide for their own service and delivery needs should comply with the following guidelines: a. Loading and delivery facilities should be located deep enough into the property that the estimated peak volume of service vehicles does not back up into or block the access road or pedestrian areas. b. Service drives and loading docks must be screened with landscaping, fencing, retaining walls or other appropriate design techniques. c. All reasonable measures shall be taken to prevent noise and exhaust impacts on adjacent properties. d. In no case shall a property utilize the public roadway or pedestrian area to stage service and delivery vehicles. 4.7.2 Properties Without Direct Service Access Properties lacking direct service access from a public street must utilize a designated public service and delivery facility. They must make all reasonable efforts to coordinate and schedule their delivery needs with other users of the facility in order to reduce peak volume usage. For a discussion of projected service and delivery volumes, see the traffic impact study, attached in appendix A. Potential locations and opportunities for a central facility are described below. 4.7.3 Potential Sites for Centralized Service and Delivery Facilities The potential facilities described below would be designed to provide unloading and staging space for deliveries into the Lionshead core. Transport from the delivery truck to the retail destination will most likely be made by hand - trucks, although the use of small golf cart-like delivery vehicles could be considered. The goods delivery system should be as quick and efficient as possible and should not cause noise, pollution, or congestion in the pedestrian core. 4.7.3.1 West End of Lionshead Parking Structure t ___ __ __ _______________ ---------------------------------------------- The idea of a non - structured central loadin fgacility at the west end of the Lionshead parking structure was presented in the original version of the Lionshead Redevelopment Master Plan. This idea was further evaluated as an element of the 2009 Lionshead Transit Station Project. Due primarily to 4 -30 Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" Formatted: Bullets and Numbering Deleted: I A non-structured central facility serving the east side of the Lionshead pedestrian core could be built at the west end of the Lionshead parking structure. This facility (see figure 4 -11) could serve up to 8 vehicles at a time in four double stacked parking bays. Although it would be visible and difficult to screen, it does provide a new location for existing East Lionshead service vehicles, removing them from the flow of traffic and the pedestrian crossing between the parking structure and the pedestrian mall. This could be a cost - effective solution that could be implemented prior to the construction of a major service and delivery center on the north day lot. Issues associated with this location are:¶ 4 < # >Snow Removal¶ This location is currently utilized as snow storage space for the top deck of the parking structure. Because the proposed service facility will occupy almost the entire west end of the site, snow storage here would no longer be possible, resulting in significant annual snow removal costs.' I < #> Visual Mitigation¶ Visual mitigation measures will be necessary to screen the truck parking and to treat the exposed western end of the parking structure. In addition, this facility should be screened from adjacent the Qrade of East Lionshead Circle ( +8 %) as well as the visual impact of this use and conflicts with parking structure snow removal areas, this idea was deemed to be infeasible. The goal of removing loading from the east entry to Lionshead in order to improve safety and the overall pedestrian experience remains. Loading for businesses in the eastern end of Lionshead can be accommodated from the public loading spaces located within the Arrabelle project. 4.7.3.2 Lifthouse Lodge Alley This alley accesses the Lifthouse lodge, Vail 21, and the Lionshead Arcade. If redevelopment occurs along this corridor, the existing service and delivery functions should be redesigned to meet the parameters outlined in section 4.7.1 and to permit a clear fire lane. 4.7.3.3 Vail Associates Core Site As the single largest service traffic generator in Lionshead, the Vail Associates core site redevelopment (Arrabelle) will provide for its own service and delivery needs. In addition, the proiect will provide a minimum of three loading spaces and up to six loading spaces available for public use. These spaces will provide loading facilities for properties in Lionshead that do not have on -site loading capabilities. --- --- -- - - - - -- - - - - --- _ 4.7.3.4 Landmark Townhomes Alley The existing alley south of the Landmark Townhomes is utilized as a delivery vehicle staging area, but this activity is strictly illegal. This alley is the only dedicated fire access corridor into Lionshead from the west and is not wide enough to accommodate service traffic without blocking the fire lane. If the north day lot service center is constructed, it is recommended that a new service corridor in this area not be constructed. However, in the event that the north day lot site is not developed, any new service corridors in this area must conform to the parameters outlined in section 4.7.1 and must not compromise the fire and emergency vehicle access into the Lionshead core. 4.8 Parking Parking is a critical component in a mixed -use resort environment such as Lionshead, and any efforts to enhance this component should adhere to the following goals and guidelines: 4 -31 Deleted: the preliminary plans presented to the Vail Town Council by Vail Associates during the master planning process indicated that one additional public use loading dock could be designed into the project. Deleted: I 9 espy a. Parking must be sufficient to meet demand. Correctly assessing parking demand in an environment such as Lionshead is difficult but extremely important. Overestimating parking demand can be as damaging as underestimating demand due to the extreme expense of parking space (especially if structured) in a real estate environment such as the Vail Valley. Likewise, parking is a large consumer of ground and should be designed to occupy as little real estate as possible. In tight margin developments such as mid -range hotels and locals /employee housing, the expense of parking can be the deciding factor as to the economic viability of the project. Due to these attributes of parking, it is important that true demand, or desired demand, be distinguished from actual usage. For example, the "free after three" program currently in place for the Town of Vail parking structures has undoubtedly increased the usage of these structures during the evening hours (the Lionshead structure filled in the evening for the first time in 1998). However, there has not been a corresponding increase in sales tax revenue, which was the original intent of "free after three ". (Note- concrete studies regarding the utilization of the "free after three" program have not been conducted and it is strongly recommended that this occur if the program is to continue). It is hypothesized that a significant portion of people utilizing the free parking program are in fact employees or people that would have used transit or other means of access if the parking were not as readily available. In other words, parking usage often will rise to fill the available space, but the profile of the user may not be who the parking was intended for. To be concise, the parking supply in Lionshead and the Town of Vail needs to not only meet the demand, it needs to meet the desired demand and should be structured or programmed in such as way to do so. Parking is important, but too expensive and land consuming to be provided without solid reasoning. b. Parking should relate to pedestrian circulation and desired points of access to the pedestrian core. A primary goal of redevelopment in Lionshead is to increase the quality of the pedestrian connections into the retail/ pedestrian core and through it to the ski yard. Any new public parking must have a strong and convenient relationship to this primary destination. However, parking should not use prime development sites and does not have to be immediately adjacent. c. Parking is only one part of an overall access strategy. Public parking is very important in bringing guests to Lionshead, but structured parking is expensive. The cost of structured parking today ranges from 20,000 to 30,000 dollars per space, so other means of access should be carefully considered first. Possible alternatives include an enhanced transit system, more convenient drop -off facilities, a reduction in required parking ratios for certain uses (such as employee and locals housing), off -site and remote parking, and parking disincentives that discourage driving. d. Parking should be visually inconspicuous. Parking should be structured below ground whenever possible. Surface parking areas should be heavily screened with landscaping, berms, and walls. Expanses of asphalt should be interrupted with islands of landscaping or replaced with pedestrian quality paving materials. Surface parking areas should be avoided in or near the retail pedestrian core area. Although structured parking may be more desirable visually, it must be properly designed so as not to detract from the guest's arrival experience. URN e. Parking requirements should not constitute an unnecessary disincentive to redevelopment. A thorough review of the current parking pay -in -lieu code and parking ratio requirements is recommended. Given the above discussions it is important that parking requirements accurately meet the true parking demand of new development and redevelopment. For example, a stated goal of the masterplan is to encourage, facilitate, and provide incentives for the expansion of ground level retail in Lionshead. While this expanded retail will likely represent some level of incremental increase to public parking demand in Lionshead, this demand needs to be accurately understood so the parking pay -in -lieu fee does not make the retail expansion economically unfeasible. The following recommendations for parking deal with existing parking that may be displaced by development, private residential/ lodging parking, public parking supply and demand, and parking for locals/ employee housing. 4.8.1 Potential Displacement of Existing Parking The ground rules for the Lionshead master plan mandate no net loss of parking as a result of redevelopment. Properties potentially affected by this policy include: 4.8.1.1 North Day Lot The north day lot (owned by Vail Associates) has approximately 105 parking - { - - -- Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.75^ spaces, all utilized by Vail Associates employees. Parking on this site serves mountain workers, Vail Associates office personnel, and employees visiting from the company headquarters in Avon. Because much of the current Vail Associates office space in Lionshead will be relocated when the site is redeveloped, parking demand on the north day lot may also decrease. To facilitate development of the site as a public transit center, it may be desirable to relax the parking requirement if it can be demonstrated that future demand will decrease. 4.8.1.2 West Day Lot The west day lot is also owned by Vail Associates and is utilized primarily by mountain based Vail Associates employees. This site offers the possibility of a higher -return development opportunity that may make other less profitable west end developments feasible, and its existing use for parking is virtually certain to change. It is not anticipated that the employee base utilizing this surface lot will decrease; therefore, all the current parking (approximately 160 spaces) will have to be replaced. 4.8.1.3 Charter Bus Parking Lot The charter bus parking area on the east end of the Lionshead parking structure is the proposed location for a future Vail civic /community center. The property is extremely valuable to the community, and its current utilization as a parking lot is not its highest and best use. Alternate locations for charter bus parking include the Ford Park parking lot and a down- valley site. A drop -off point for the buses will still be necessary and is 4 -33 recommended as a component of the proposed transit center on the north day lot. 4.8.2 Residential Properties As a policy, all residential properties should provide their own parking within their property according to existing Town of Vail regulations and the parameters described above. 4.8.3 Public Parking Public parking in Lionshead today consists of the Lionshead parking structure, which has a capacity of approximately 1200 vehicles. 4.8.3.1 Existing Parking Shortfall The 1991 Vail Transportation Master Plan suggested a town -wide peak period parking shortfall of 500 spaces. Overflow volumes are experienced approximately 20 -30 days per year. 4.8.3.2 Potential New Parking Demand See appendix A, traffic impact study. 4.8.3.3 Potential New Parking Sites To respond to the projected parking demand increase discussed in the traffic study, it is strongly recommended that all town -wide parking opportunities be examined or re- examined prior to any final planning or parking construction. Specific public parking opportunities in Lionshead include: a. Lionshead Parking Structure The existing Lionshead parking structure is a logical location for expanded public parking because it is already owned by the Town of Vail. Also, the structure is conveniently located between the proposed civic center on the east and the main portal to the Lionshead pedestrian mall on the west. No other location offers visitors such ease of access. A self - ventilating split deck structure, the garage has six half decks, each holding approximately 200 vehicles (1,200 spaces in total). The addition of one complete level would increase the structure by 400 spaces, two complete new levels by 800 spaces. Snow removal is an issue in the addition of new decks. The top deck of the structure is cleared manually with front -end loaders. Additional decks will make it impossible to continue this method, as the internal dimensions of the structure will not accommodate front -end loaders. In addition, the construction of a new delivery staging area on the west end of the structure will remove the snow storage area presently used. Alternatives include heating the upper deck, providing for an alternate snow removal access road to the upper deck, and construction of a roof over the entire structure. Public 4 -34 input during the master plan process has indicated the importance of the eastward view, across the top of the parking structure, toward the Vail Village as motorists travel east along the South Frontage Road and I -70. Future expansion plans of the Lionshead parking structure should consider the potential impacts expansion could have on this view plane. Also an issue is the necessary structural reinforcement of the existing facility to support the weight of additional decks. b. West Lionshead The construction of a new public parking facility at the west end of Lionshead has been a planning consideration since the completion of the Vail Transportation Master plan in 1991. This site is currently undeveloped (except for the Vail Associates maintenance yard) and is large enough to meet projected parking demand. It is well located in relation to the potential new eastbound I -70 access ramps. The viability of a new public parking facility in this location would be enhanced by bringing lift service to this area. The construction of a new public parking facility would address the existing deficiency of off - street parking on peak days and the shifting demand of parking created by the introduction of a new ski lift in West Lionshead. It is anticipated that the new public parking structure would contain a approximately 400 public parking spaces, which would be in excess of any parking requirements generated by proposed development. The update of the Vail Transportation Plan should provide final direction on the location and quantity of additional public parking spaces in the Town of Vail. The location of additional public parking should consider where parking is most optimal for both guests and employees, year round utilization, mountain operations, and overall traffic circulation. Given the location for this parking facility, it had been assumed that regular transit or shuttle service would be necessary because of its distance from the retail core area and the ski yard (greater than a 1200 -foot walking radius). However, the location of the parking structure would be proximate to the new lift and as such the need for regular shuttle service would be minimized. However, some provisions for bus stops and/or a transit facility should be considered for the parking structure. 4 -35 POTENTIAL 300 SPACE PER PLATE PARKING STRUCTURE FOOTPRINT ON WEST DAY LOT MAINTAIN EXBTING FOREST ROAD / AUGNMENT POTENTIAL INGRF.SSMAMMS POINT r VAIL SANITATION PLANT Y emu/ T ..w ~ � a Ste•' J 'I �— POTENTIAL 400 SPACE PER PLATE PARKING STRUCTURE FOOTPRINT POTENTIAL TRANSIT PICK- UPIDROP -OFF POINT Flo" 4 - -Watt l ionWh PW*09 SIMClun Opipanaides 4 -36 4.8.4 Parking for Employee Housing The unit -to- parking space ratio for employee housing should be reduced to maximize the housing opportunities in west Lionshead. During the master planning process, the Vail Town Council toured several employee housing complexes in Keystone Resort that averaged .25 cars per bed (one parking space per four -bed unit). Most of these complexes at Keystone are removed from the core and depend on a bus transit system to carry employees to and from work. Yet, Keystone property managers have not observed a parking shortage. Likewise, at the Rivers Edge employee housing project in Avon, a parking ratio of .75 cars per bed has been more than adequate and the parking lot is underutilized. 4.9 Housing Recent community surveys and grass -roots planning efforts such as Vail Tomorrow have identified the lack of locals housing as the most critical issue facing the Vail community. Early in the Lionshead master planning process, west Lionshead was identified as an opportunity area to implement some of the community's housing goals, particularly relating to employee housing. These opportunities and associated issues are outlined below. 4.9.1 No Net Loss of Employee Housing Ground rule number five of the master plan states that there shall be no net loss of employee housing in Lionshead as redevelopment occurs. 4.9.2 Visual Issues The financial realities of affordable housing often require cost reducing measures, generally involving the quality of detailing, planning, and architectural design. Given the strong desire to make these housing projects feasible, it is recommended that some latitude be granted to affordable housing developers. However, it is also important that financial realities not be used as an excuse to produce unsightly, poorly designed, substandard products. Employee housing does not need to match the architectural sophistication of a five star resort development, but it does need to be good quality construction and design. Rivers Edge in Avon is a good example of an attractive yet affordable employee housing project. 4.9.3 Policy Based Housing Opportunities The first means of implementing housing goals in Lionshead is through policy based requirements such as the employee generation ordinance currently being pursued by the Vail Town Council. As required by a future ordinance, all development and redevelopment projects, as a prerequisite to project approval, should provide housing for employees generated and to the extent possible this housing should be located in the Lionshead area. 4.9.4 Potential Housing Sites Following are specific sites that have been identified as suitable for locals and employee housing (see Map W). 4 -37 4.9.4.1 South Face of the Lionshead Parking Structure The south face of the Lionshead parking structure was identified by the Lionshead master planning team, the public input "wish list" process, and the Vail Tomorrow process as a potential location for housing. Depending on building height, this location could support two to three levels of housing located above a ground floor level of retail and commercial space. Several planning issues are associated with this site. First, because the structure will front the East Lionshead Circle pedestrian corridor, the architectural quality and relationship to the street and pedestrian environment will be very important. Strict standards of unit upkeep will have to be enforced. Second, any housing units at this location will be required to park in the Lionshead parking structure, but unit size and location should allow the parking ratio to be lower than that of a typical one or two bedroom unit. Third, it is recommended that the height of this potential development be limited so that mountain views from the top deck of the parking structure are not blocked. Lastly, the structural issues relating to an additional parking deck should be coordinated with any south face development scenario. 4.9.4.2 Top Deck of the Lionshead Parking Structure The upper deck of the Lionshead parking structure has also been identified as a potential location for housing. Although the parking structure does offer a large area, several critical planning considerations must be taken into account. a. Parking Issues The most important future use of the Lionshead parking facility is expanded public parking. No housing scenarios should be pursued before assuring that public parking needs have been met. In addition, housing on the structure must provide its own parking; there should be no net loss of existing or future public parking on the structure. b. Structural Issues Engineering studies conducted during the master planning process indicate that the parking structure can accommodate future expansion above the existing upper deck, but not without structural reinforcement. Any housing on top of the structure must take into account the structural loading of the new development and the accompanying cost implications. c. Visual issues Because housing on top of the structure will be highly visible, it will have to adhere to the Lionshead Architectural Design Guidelines (see chapter 8) and provide for ongoing maintenance. Also, the view of the mountains across the top of the parking structure is an important part of the arrival experience for visitors and contributes significantly to the Lionshead image and 4 -38 character. Any housing on the parking structure should endeavor not to block this view completely. 4.9.4.3 West Lionshead West Lionshead includes the Vail Associates Service Yard, Holy Cross site, Vail Professional Building site, Cascade Crossings site, Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site and the Eagle River Water and Sanitation site. All redevelopment in West Lionshead will need to conform to the Town's housing policies and requirements. In order to create activity and vibrancy in West Lionshead it is appropriate to include some dispersed employee housing opportunities for permanent local residents in proposed developments in the area consistent with these policies. Perhaps the most promising locations to replace the Sunbird affordable housing project and to conform to the Town's housing policies and requirements for new employee housing generation in Lionshead are the North Day Lot, Vail Associates service yard, and Holy Cross site. However, housing is not the only use these three properties will need to support. 4.9.4.4 Red Sandstone Parking Area The parking lot and Town of Vail transit stop at the base of the Red Sandstone Elementary school were identified as a potential site for employee or locals housing because of its proximity to the elementary school, the I -70 pedestrian overpass and the transit stop. However, the access (vehicular and pedestrian), safety and functional programming needs of the elementary school must take priority in any potential housing development scenario. 4.9.4.5 Old Town Shops The Old Town Shops, located just west of the Vail sanitation plant, were identified as potential employee housing locations during the master planning process. There are, however, other significant demands on this site, including potential expansion of the sanitation plant and the need for a new snowcat mountain access route from the Vail Associates service yard. In addition, the presence of the sanitation plant on one side and the existing gas station on the other reduces the desirability of this location for employee or locals housing. 4.9.4.6 North Day Lot The North Day lot is considered to be the preferred location for a significant housing project in Lionshead to replace the Sunbird affordable housing project and provide housing for new employee generation, Additionally,_ it Deleted: The North Da y Lot may also may be necessary to develop a higher revenue-generating product on a need to accommodate a transit center on ry p g g g p the ground level of the development site. portion of the Vail Associates service yard, Holy Cross, Vail Professional 4 -39 Building, and Cascade Crossing sites in order to defray the cost of road and infrastructure improvements. In planning the site, the following issues need to be considered. While it is important that buildings here be visually consistent with the overall character of Lionshead, the desire to maximize the housing potential may make appropriate the following deviations from standard development parameters: a. Density The site offers a unique opportunity to achieve significant density. It is recommended that the standards for density (units per acre) be increased at this location to allow for a greater number of employee housing units. While it is important that buildings here be visually consistent with the overall character of Lionshead, the desire to maximize the housing potential may make appropriate the following deviations from standard development parameters. b. Building Height for Employee Housing It may be appropriate to allow for a greater overall building height than is otherwise allowed under the Lionshead Architectural Design Guidelines. Any increase in building height will need to be reviewed on a case by case basis by the Town of Vail, and any eventual building height will still need to be visually appropriate for this location. c. Parking It may be appropriate to reduce the parking requirements for employee housing at this location given the sites proximity to transportation facilities, jobs, and pedestrian routes. In consideration for reducing employee parking for the housing provided on this site, parking for other employees of the owner provided on this site should be considered. Excess parking may be used to satisfy the no net loss of parking policy or for future parking requirements of other development on the property. d. Site Coverage and Landscape Area and Setbacks Consideration should also be given to increasing site coverage and reducing setbacks and landscape area in order to maximize the amount of employee housing on the site and/or due to impacts associated with the development of a public transportation facility on the property. With any deviation to development standards prescribed in the master plan and zoning regulations, consideration of impacts should be afforded to the neighboring residential uses to the North Day Lot. Any design with such deviations will need to be sensitive to creating good designs with mitigation measures such as heated sidewalks and well planned landscape materials. Additionally due to impacts from the Town's dispersed transportation center on neighboring residential uses, mitigation measures should be provided to buffer and screen residential uses. 4-40 r{ e. Encroachments on Town Land The Town of Vail owns a small parcel of land on the north side of the north day lot which accommodates the pedestrian bridge over the interstate highway. This land was dedicated to the Town by Vail Associates in 1976. In order to allow for more efficient layout and development of employee housing on the site and/or the dispersed transportation facility, the Town should give consideration to allowing development of employee housing and/or transportation uses on this parcel of land as part of the development of the north day lot. 4.10 Gateways, Landmarks, and Portals The lack of spatial hierarchy or organizational clarity is a fundamental problem in the Lionshead pedestrian and vehicular network today. This section discusses the need to create a series of gateways, portals, landmarks and useful public spaces that will increase and enhance the character and identity of the pedestrian environment. 4.10.1 Gateways and Portals Gateways and portals are elements that signify important points of entry and transition and serve to reinforce the identity and functionality of both. They are announcements of direction and relative importance. Gateways can be created using building forms, landscaping, paving patterns, or signage. Portals and gateways are discussed in the architectural design guidelines (see chapter 8). The creation of gateways and portals is encouraged as a basic component of redevelopment, especially in transition areas between different domains, or public, semi - public, and private areas. A change in the hierarchy of the surrounding environment should be announced and well delineated. There are several critical locations where gateway and portals need to occur (see Map R). 4.10.1.1 Vehicular Gateways Because the majority of people coming to Lionshead arrive by vehicle, it is important that the vehicular arrival points announce and help establish the identity of Lionshead. The two primary vehicular gateways are the east and west boundaries of the study area on South Frontage Road (see Map R). Landscaping, signage, and the adjacent buildings should all communicate to motorists that they have entered the Lionshead resort area. Secondary vehicular gateways include all of the cross - streets that access Lionshead from the frontage road. These intersections should have a consistent landscape treatment and visible directional signage. A consistent signage package announcing the lodging destinations on each street should be an integral component of South Frontage Road improvements. 4.10.1.2 Pedestrian Portals/ Gateways Four primary pedestrian portals are critical to establishing the character and identity of Lionshead (see Map T): 1) the pedestrian entry on the west end of the parking structure; 2) the top of the grade transition from the north day lot Formatted: Indent: Left: 0 ", First line: 0" 4-41 into the retail mall; 3) the intersection of West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place at the western end of the retail mall; and 4) the transition between the ski yard and the retail mall. 4.10.2 Landmarks A landmark is a significant architectural element that all the visitors to Lionshead can identify and remember. Landmarks signify important points of entry, turning points and critical intersections in the pedestrian network, as well as destinations and visual reference points. The single landmark in Lionshead today is the Gondola clock tower, which will be replaced with the Vail Associates core site redevelopment. Appropriate locations for new landmarks in Lionshead are the east pedestrian portal, the central retail mall adjacent to the main pedestrian plaza, and the west pedestrian portal adjacent to the intersection of West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place. In addition, the potential civic center complex at the east end of the parking structure should function as a significant architectural landmark for the east end of Lionshead. 4.11 Public Art Through the Art in Public Places board, the Town of Vail has long recognized the importance of public art in pedestrian environments. Future development and redevelopment projects in Lionshead, especially projects impacting the retail mall and primary pedestrian environments, should seek to incorporate public art according to the Town of Vail Art in Public Places Master Plan (not adopted as of the writing of this document). Pedestrian circulation systems, portals and gateways, landmarks, pedestrian plazas and architecture all present opportunities to incorporate public art. 4.12 Youth Recreation Throughout the masterplan process there was public input regarding the need for both indoor and outdoor non -skier related recreation opportunities for children and youth. Since the removal of the playground south of Gore Creek in 1995, the only such activities include the Vail Associates putt-putt golf course and the open play field of the ski yard. As the redevelopment of Lionshead progresses the creation of a programmed children's play area should be a community priority. Programmatic components of such as play area could include "tot -lot" play equipment, a volleyball court, swing sets, and creative play structures. Landscaping, benches, and picnic tables should also be integrated into the design such a play area. The location of such a play area will need to be readily accessible from the Lionshead pedestrian mall area and the Gore Creek recreation path, and will require good southern solar exposure. In addition to the play area described above, the potential of integrating children's play areas into the Lionshead pedestrian retail mall should be considered when improvements to the mall are made. Good examples of such play areas can be found in the Aspen, Breckenridge, and Boulder pedestrian retail districts. 4.13 Live Beds The maintenance, preservation, and enhancement of the live bed base are critical to the future success of Lionshead and as such, special emphasis should be placed on increasing the number of live beds in Lionshead as the area undergoes redevelopment. The Lionshead area currently contains a large percentage of the Town's overall lodging bed base. The bed base in Lionshead's consists of a variety of residential and lodging products including hotels, 4-42 condominiums, timeshares and hybrids of all three. The vast majority of live beds in Lionshead are not accommodation units in hotels, but instead, in dwelling units in residential condominiums such as the Vail 21, Treetops, Antlers Lodge, Lion Square Lodge, Lifthouse Lodge, Landmark Tower and Townhomes, Lionshead Arcade, and Montaneros, all of which have some form of rental/property management program that encourages short term rental of dwelling units when the owners are not in residence. It has been the experience in Lionshead that condominium projects which include a voluntary rental management program have occupancy rates which exceed the occupancy rate of hotel products, and therefore tend to provide more live beds and produce more lodging tax revenues to the Town. Applications for new development or redevelopment which maintain, preserve, and enhance the live bed base in Lionshead have a significantly greater chance of approval in the development review process than those which do not. 4.13.1 Live Bed Definition Pursuant to Policy Objective 2.3.3, live beds (and warm beds) are defined as residential or lodging rooms or units that are designed for occupancy by visitors, guests, individuals, or families, on a short term rental basis. A live bed may include the following residential products: accommodation units, fractional fee club units, lodge dwelling units, timeshare units, attached accommodation units (i.e., lock -off units), and dwelling units which are included in a voluntary rental management program and available for short term rental. 4.13.2 Location of Live Beds Live beds should be located in Lionshead pursuant to the Lionshead Mixed Use 1 and 2 zone districts. All properties within Lionshead, when developing or redeveloping and providing new residential or lodging products, should provide live beds as defined herein. 4.13.3 Hotel -types of Services and Amenities To aid in the furtherance of Policy Objective 2.3.3 of the Plan, the creation of additional live beds should include hotel -types of services and amenities. Such services and amenities may include, but not be limited to, the operation of a front desk, registration/reservation capabilities, recreational amenities, guest drop -off, on -site management, etc. These types of services and amenities in multiple family residential dwellings will increase the likelihood that the dwelling units will be made available for short term occupancy and help to promote improved occupancy rates. 4.13.4 Review of New Development and Redevelopment Projects The Planning and Environmental Commission shall consider the policies and direction given by this Plan with respect to live beds when reviewing new development and redevelopment projects in Lionshead. Applications for new development or redevelopment shall maintain the live bed base in Lionshead. Applications for new development and redevelopment which enhance the live bed base have a significantly greater chance of approval in the development review process than those which do not. A proposal's adherence to the policies contained in the adopted master plan will be one of the factors analyzed by staff, the Planning and Environmental Commission (PEC), 443 the Design Review Board (DRB), and the Town Council (as applicable) in determining whether to approve or disapprove the specific proposal. 4-44 Page 11: [1] Deleted 03/11/2010 1:34 PM to the proposed North Day Lot, the Lionshead parking structure, and West Lionshead. This will provide a Lionshead connection between the regional transit system and the Town of Vail transit system. In addition, visitors and employees coming to Lionshead by regional bus will arrive at a defined portal instead of the current "back door" on Lionshead Place. Finally, this will remove the large regional buses from West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place. It may be possible to locate elements of a regional transit stop in the West Lionshead area in conjunction with a new ski lift and parking facility. However, given its location on the periphery of Lionshead, this area may not be the most viable location for a regional transit stop. Notwithstanding the above, facilities for skier drop -off, private shuttle vans and Town of Vail in -town buses should be included in the design of the ski lift and parking facility. In 2006, the Town of Vail initiated an update of the Vail Transportation Master Plan. In addition, the Town initiated a development competition for the Lionshead Parking Structure redevelopment, which would include a transit facility. It is anticipated that the Transportation Master Plan update along with the conclusion of the Lionshead Parking Structure redevelopment process will provide direction on the ultimate location for a Lionshead Transit Facility and/or the type of transit facilities that may be necessary in West Lionshead. Page 11: [2] Deleted 03/11/2010 1:43 PM The existing bus stop at Concert Hall Plaza is underutilized and is too close to the transit stop at the Marriott. Page 12: [3] Inserted 03/15/2010 8:53 AM J r• - - IL I - Af � t � ':-..ten. - • �ff f�. IL a t3 ) ~ fit• � y � ` ... ��...� + ti V Figure 4 -6a - Lionshead Transit Center on top deck of Parking Structure IL ar•� til 1 , • r" r ' _�� .• R / fo 4 L 7-0 �v LK3NSHEADPARX3NG ! UC L— sm UM tL ` �^►� y .rte �'S._, __ f�! tc •� Figure 4 -6b - Frontage road eco stop Page 29: [4] Deleted 04/07/2010 12:54 PM I SECONDARY I-- PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN WALK PEDESTRIAN CROSSING) REDEVELOPED CONCERT HALL PLAZA LIONSQUARE LODGE NORTH PROPERTY — MONTANEROS LIONSHEAD PLACE r WEST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE 00 0r: • , V.- AIX RSwr 4-10- Intersection of Uonshead Place and Weat Llmsheod Cimle Creation of a New Transportation Hub on the North Day Lot A principal component of the Lionshead transportation and circulation network is the creation of dispersed transportation facilities in the Lionshead area. This facility will remove transit and service vehicles from other areas of Lionshead and create a major new entry point into the Lionshead pedestrian core. All or portions of these dispersed transportation facilities may be located on the North Day Lot, the Lionshead parking structure, or in West Lionshead. This concept is fully discussed in chapter five. Page 31: [5] Deleted 04/07/2010 12:55 PM LANDSCAPE SCREENING LIONSHEAD PARKING STRUCTURE —7 fu - L ' C� EIGHT TRUCK MAXEWUM SURFACE STAGING AREA — POTENTIAL SERVICE STORAGE BUILDING POTENTIAL REDEVLOPMENT OF EXISTING PARKING DECK _ VANTAGE POINT This drawing to be deleted in final draft ' of revisions Wo .w !ti DEDICATED LEFT -TURN LANE LM'T -TURN ACCELERATION LANE C F*" I - -11- Emt Lt mhmd Service and Detivwy Facility CHAPTER 5: DETAILED PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS This section of the Lionshead Master plan examines individual parcels and groups of parcels within the Lionshead study area, excluding the residential properties on the south side of Gore Creek. The intent of this chapter — and the Master plan as a whole - is to identify important functional relationships and visual objectives within the district and to propose a framework for the long -term redevelopment of Lionshead. The document does not intend to limit or eliminate ideas relating to specific parcels; any proposals consistent with this framework should be considered even if they are not anticipated in this document. The parcels addressed here are organized generally from east to west, starting with the civic hub on the eastern end of the parking structure. 5.1 Vail Civic Center The proposed Vail civic center complex is comprised of the Vail public library, Dobson Ice Arena, and the existing charter bus parking lot at the eastern end of the Lionshead public parking structure (see figure 5 -1). At this time, municipal priorities for the development program on this site are uncertain, but potential alternatives are described below. 5.4.1 History of Vail Civic Center The Vail Civic Center site was acquired in the mid 1970's by the Town of Vail, after the Town Council rejected a proposal to build a civic center at Ford Park. It was determined that a civic center required a location adjacent to a major parking structure with walking distance of both the Vail Village and Lionshead. Since the acquisition of the property there have been several proposals considered and rejected for the site. There have been three attempts to build a convention center on the charter bus lot site, one including a performing arts center. All three proposals were rejected by the electorate. To date, no proposal has met the grand vision for the completion of the Vail Civic Center. 5.4.2 Potential Development Scenarios Uses suggested during the master planning process include a performing arts center, a conference facility, a community recreation and service center (potentially including the town government offices), a second ice rink connected to Dobson Arena, and a high - tech convention center. Community participants expressed a strong preference for a locally relevant development serving the local community as well as destination visitors. With a potential of 50,000 square feet per floor, this site could accommodate a variety of uses, provided they are well designed and integrated. It will be the responsibility of the Town of Vail Council to decide upon the development program for use of the civic center site. 5.4.3 Functional Relationships The general goal for this site is to create a single, cohesive civic center from three disparate components (the library, the arena and the bus parking lot), using coordinated architectural character and linked public spaces. The new concentration of civic uses can help to connect Lionshead and Vail Village and will become the eastern anchor of Lionshead, connected to the Lionshead pedestrian core by the parking structure and the redeveloped East Lionshead Circle. Specific planning considerations are as follows: 5 -1 5.1.3.1 Access It will be important that the civic facilities complex be connected to all three circulation networks in Lionshead: vehicular, pedestrian, and public transit. a. Vehicular Access and Parking The Lionshead parking structure will be the primary means of vehicular access to this facility for those arriving by car. A drop -off point could also be developed on the frontage road side of the facility (see figure 5 -2), but space is constrained here and better limited to special access needs. The southeast corner of the parking structure should be converted into a drop -off and arrival point for people walking to and from their cars. This will be the front door for the majority of people accessing the complex and should be designed to provide convenient vertical access to the interior of the facility and the pedestrian plaza on its southern face. The new facility and Dobson Ice Arena should be connected architecturally, allowing visitors who arrive via the parking structure to have a safe, enclosed connection to Dobson (see figure 5 -3). This is particularly critical for parents of children attending events at the arena. Although it is possible to create a vehicular drop -off point at the western end of Dobson arena, this is not recommended because it will conflict with service and transit traffic on East Lionshead Circle. If this drop -off is required, it should provide access only for targeted uses. b. Pedestrian Access The primary point of pedestrian access to the new civic center complex should be on the south side, at the terminus of East Lionshead Circle. Because pedestrians walking from Vail Village and Lionshead will converge at this point, the facility needs a well designed, highly visible front entry with ample plaza space accessing both the new civic facility and Dobson Ice Arena (see figure 5 -3). This pedestrian plaza design should pursue incorporating the grade transition down to the Vail Public Library, creating a cohesive pedestrian plaza linking all elements of the Vail Civic Center complex (the civic center, Dobson, library, and the parking structure). A secondary access point should be created on the north side of the new structure, allowing pedestrian access to and through the site from the Vail International condominiums and the pedestrian walkway on the north side of Dobson Ice Arena (see figure 5 -3). c. Transit Connections Currently, the in -town shuttle stop is between Dobson Ice Arena and the Vail public library for both east- and westbound buses. A transit stop is also needed adjacent to the new main pedestrian entry on the west end of Dobson (see figure 5 -3), allowing transit riders to access both Dobson and the proposed civic center complex from this point. This will allow greater flexibility in the transit system and reduce the potential for conflict between 5 -2 pedestrians, service vehicles and transit vehicles on the south side of Dobson. 5 -3 `fit~ • -� ,,. IL a• — .. 4— - - --ut-My� - — I- *-+ — VA11L PUBUC LIBRARY D7OMON ICE ARENA POTENTIAL DEVEI ON SOUTH FACE C MA •..� tom;- `"` �tv 111111f A UDNSHEAD PARR f STRUCTURE J ` \ t. Deleted: PfYPF.NTIAL CMr rFMM COWONENT •' � :� n• acs � • : -� w: a 1 i ie !►ire J - I - r' all Qvk Ce w and Eeat Lkwu mud FAST LIONSHEAD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL L � as � mss.. 4 i IA VAIL 54 VAIL INTB.RNATT(7)NAI GRADE TRANSITION NORTH PEDESTRIAN ENTRANCE �J �. DOBSON ICE ARENA VAII. CIVIC CEN"ER 1w t I+id► V AIL RQTERNATIONAL ACCESS t SERVICE AND DELI - BAY —+ POTENTIAL FRONT DROP -OFF POINT Fir" 5 -2 .0v Cenur ®d Vail Inwnadund Aocm 5 -5 d. Emergency Access A new emergency vehicle route (see figure 5 -4) will be needed if the extension of East Lionshead Circle into the Vail International condominiums is closed. It is proposed that this route wrap around the southeast corner of the civic complex to the north side of Dobson Ice Arena (requiring a structural upgrade to the existing walkway). This access route must be designed so that it is not blocked by delivery vehicle traffic on the eastern end of the arena. e. Vehicle Access to Vail International If the East Lionshead Circle extension is closed, a new access point from South Frontage Road will be required (delineated in figure 5 -2). f. Service and Delivery Two service and delivery points are proposed for the proposed civic center complex. The first is located on the southeastern end of Dobson Ice Arena. The second will serve the new civic facility from South Frontage Road (see figure 5 -2). It is strongly recommended that no delivery points be constructed that would introduce regular service and delivery traffic onto East Lionshead Circle or West Meadow Drive. Service and delivery traffic that will not be able to access the site from the South Frontage Road should be distributed equally across East Lionshead Circle and West Meadow Drive. 5.1.3.2 Relationship to East Lionshead Circle The proposed new civic center complex should function as the eastern visual terminus to East Lionshead Circle. The architecture connecting Dobson Ice Arena to the civic center should be integrated into the potential development on the south face of the parking structure (see section 5.2). The East Lionshead Circle pedestrian environment should have a strong connection to the pedestrian plaza in front of the civic center complex. 5.1.3.3 Relationship to Dobson Ice Arena Perhaps the most critical functional relationship is the connection of the proposed new structure to Dobson Ice Arena (see figure 5 -3). Currently, the main pedestrian entry to Dobson is the doorway on its south face, where there are often conflicts with delivery vehicles and the transit buses during times of peak activity. A common entry point on the western end of Dobson can become the new front door to the arena, thus reducing the potential for conflicts on the south side. It can also be designed to provide common lobby, ticketing, and concession space for both structures. There is an opportunity to make a below -grade connection from the common entry to the ice level in Dobson. This could make possible a second sheet of ice or large recreation space in the lowest level of the new civic center 5-6 structure. This would, however, require large structural spans and would be very costly. 5.2 South Face of the Lionshead Parking Structure The linear strip of land on the south face of the Lionshead parking structure (see figure 5 -1) should be considered for the development of retail and office space on the ground level and housing for locals on the upper levels (see figure 6 -6). The planning objectives of this potential development are threefold. First, it would energize and visually upgrade East Lionshead Circle by enhancing pedestrian activity on the street. Second, it creates the potential for a locally accessible retail environment. The Town of Vail should consider retaining ownership of the ground level retail /office space and making it available to local entrepreneurs and businesses, much in the same way that deed restricted locals housing is provided in the Vail Commons. Finally, this site presents an opportunity to locate locals/ employee housing conveniently adjacent to the Lionshead pedestrian core. Retail back doors and entrances to the residential units in the new development will be accessed from the parking structure, and any private parking associated with these uses will be in the parking structure. Some of the building's service and delivery needs may handled interior to the parking structure, but most will be accommodated in the facility proposed on the west end of the parking structure. East Lionshead Circle would only be used in short-term overflow situations. Because of the narrow depth and small square footage of the commercial space, it is not anticipated that it will generate the need for larger delivery trucks. Because the garage is a non - mechanical self - ventilating structure, any new vertical development must be offset a minimum of ten feet from the face of the existing structure. The effect of adjacent development on the ventilation of the parking structure must be thoroughly evaluated. 5.3 Lionshead Tourist Information Center The Lionshead Tourist Information Center is currently located just west of the entry to the Lionshead parking structure and is accessed directly off the frontage road. If the entrance to the Lionshead parking structure is relocated as shown in figure 5 -1 this existing facility will need to be relocated. Potential locations for the center include the Future Vail Civic CenteranA the Deleted:, parking structure, -- Deleted: , and West Lionshead. 5.4 Gore Creek Corridor The master plan goals for the Gore Creek corridor are to protect and enhance its natural beauty and environment, to connect it to the Lionshead core, and to make the Gore Creek recreation path safer and more inviting as a passive recreation amenity. Specific recommendations for this corridor are as follows 5.4.1 Creation of a Recreation Path `Bypass' Around the Ski Yard The existing Gore Creek recreation path is discontinuous and confusing. It should be extended along the creek, under the skier bridge and behind the lift line mazes to form an unbroken streamside trail around the ski yard (see figure 5 -5). Close coordination between the Town of Vail and Vail Associates lift operations will be needed for a safe alignment in this area. 5 -7 PEDESTRIAN CONNECTION TO WEST MEADOW DRIVPI 'AIL VTLL4GE DODSON ICE ARENA w , PEDESTRIAN. TRANSIT CONNECTION TO VAIL PUBLIC LIHRARY DORSON/CWIC CENTER MAIN PEDESTRIAN/TRANSIT ENTRANCE RETAHATOUSiNG ON SOUTH FACL OF STRUCTURE LODGE AT LIONSHEAD 1 14.t 2 ' VAIL cmc ENTER �a PARKING STRUCTURE ARRIVAL (J J AND DROP OFF PO(TJTVFR77CAI GRADE TRANSITION L COMMON LOBBY CONNECTING DODSON PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN ICE ARENA TO PROPOSED CIVIC CENTER CONNECTION TO EAST NORTH PEDESTRIAN ENTRANCE LIONSHEAD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL Fgwe t.3 Fail Commun4v Cnvc Cewer Connece'om 5 -8 TRANSIT/EhilERGENCY VEHICLE ROUTE BAST LIONSHE" CIRCLE �g • ' VA1L PUBLJC • � • LIIRARY *, � .� • *,�,. �,- < - _ is 9C L 1 ti, t • 49, DOBSON ICE MENA VAEL r CMC VAJL INTFRNATIDNAL DOBSON ICE ARENA AND VAIL INTERNATIONAL FIRE LANE 5.4.2 Picnic and Seating Areas along the Recreation Path The existing picnic area on the recreation path behind the Lodge at Lionshead should be significantly improved. Bicycle racks, new benches and picnic tables, and adequate trash bins should be added. At least two other seating and picnic areas, consistent in design and furnishings with improvements at the existing area, are also recommended. Regular upkeep of the existing and proposed amenities will be required. 5.43 Safety Issues The existing Gore Creek recreation path is a relatively safe environment, but conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists will increase as the popularity of bicycling grows. A clearly delineated bicycle lane wide enough for a bicycle with a pull- behind child carrier is needed. The path should be wide enough for a cyclist to pass another bicycle without endangering nearby pedestrians. The design of the path should eliminate blind curves where cyclists riding in opposing directions might collide. The pool deck behind the Antlers presents such a hazard, and all potential measures should be taken to remedy that situation, including removal or modification of the pool. 5 -9 I F r PASSIVE REC RF- ATIDNYNATURE TRAIL f PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO CREEK EDGE MUSTING WOODEN ACCESS BRIDGE r NEW GORE CREEK RECREATION PATTI BY -PASS a I �_ li"L . - ri - - - -- EXISTING GORE CREEK RECREATION PATH YARD L ;_ �-.f . FlgseS -S •Gars C—A Wellavl Cnrnecnow and.Recreanon Path h Paw 5.4.4 Lowland Area South of Gore Creek improvements and restoration activities in this section of the Gore Creek corridor are discussed in chapter four, section 4.3.2. 5.4.5 Revegetation and Landscaping West of the Ski Yard Slope revegetation and landscaping are needed along the western portion of the Gore Creek recreation path. This section, which traverses a fill bank above Gore Creek, may never have the forested character of the section east of the ski yard, but it can be greatly enhanced by planting more trees. The focus should be on the more barren north side, with less intensive landscaping on the south bank framing views to the creek (see figure 6 -4). The added landscaping should be as natural as possible and appropriate for a riparian environment. The use of small understory plantings that would increase maintenance requirements should be minimized. 5 -10 5.5 East Lionshead Bus Drop -off Area This area is an essential pedestrian connection between the Lionshead parking structure and the Lionshead retail mall. The master plan recommends the removal of service and delivery activities, skier drop -off, and shuttle vans from this area in order to make pedestrian crossing safer. Other improvements include: ------------------ ------------------------------------------------ - - - --- -- - - - - -- - ------ - - - - -- 5.5.1 Pedestrian Connections The pedestrian corridor between the parking structure and the Lionshead retail mall should be direct and unobstructed (see figure 5 -6). A small volume of vehicular and transit traffic will continue to cross this area, but the space should be redesigned to make it clear that these vehicles are subordinate to pedestrians. Its design should suggest that cars are intruders in a pedestrian space rather than that pedestrians are crossing a vehicular road (as is the case today). Techniques to accomplish this goal include the elimination of grade separations at the pedestrian crossing, paving patterns that differentiate the edestrian crosswalk from the vehicular lanes and bollards that 1 - - -- Formatted: Highlight P delineate vehicular crossing lanes (see figure 5 -6). Landscaping may be appropriate in i this plaza, but it must not impede the flow of pedestrian traffic between the parking structure and the core. - ----------------- ----- -- - - - - - - -- - -- - - - - - - - -- - - ----- - -- - - - - 5.5.2 Transit Stop The functions a better pedestrian o experience be Wh d e s pedestri n bus conflicts will it' Lionshead portal significant improvements can be made to landscaping si t- lines, pavement surfaces, grades and the aesthetic quality of this area. t Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Not Highlight Deleted: rest of Formatted: Not Highlight Formatted: Not Highlight Deleted: etc Inserted: etc Formatted: Not Highlight Deleted: relocated slightly to the east of their present location to remove the existing conflict with pedestrians crossing from the parking structure. Figure 5-6 delineates the proposed east - and westbound bus stops. It shows a single bus lane in each direction and a turnaround with a 50 -foot radius. In order to maintain the pedestrian's dominance in this area, westbound traffic leaving East Lionshead Circle should share the transit lane and should be required to stop and wait if the bus is picking up or dropping off passengers.1 5.5.3 Potential Building Infill Site l Formatted Not Highlight At one time the Master Plan contemplated wh en the skier drop -off and service and I " Deli' w --------- --- -- --------------- Deleted: is delivery functions are removed from the transit drop -off area, the transit stop may be reduced in size, yielding a site suitable for infill development. This property functions Inserted: is road ri of- wa y as load ri -of -way owned by the Town of Vail While development of this area Deleted: , presents several -- ---- ri g _ ------------------------------------ _- __- ___ - -__ _---- __- _- __ -_ -__ ------------------------ _ would potentially otentiall crest F stlron atewa into the retail core and better definition of the opportunities. First r g Y Deleted: , _ pedestrian corridor that connects it to the parking structure it would also eliminate the oopQortunity for a softer landscaped entry into Lionshead. Deleted: it will enable the creation of n t nI ti tt l g atl ild t ! + Deleted: (i.e. the possibility of - - - -- -- - - -- - -------- - - - - -- providing bus turn around in this area) of - the Town -owned right -of -way Deleted: is Inserted: is reason 5.6 West Face of the Parking Structure Deleted: second it brings the retail :This area had previously been contemplated as being used for loading and delivery. However ed closer to East Lionshead circle, as previously mentioned this is not feasible. This area should be preserved for snow storage reducing the distance between the parking structure and the retail and access into the Lionshead Parking Structure. environment. Finall it is an opportunity to generate revenue for the Town of Vail to help fund the public improvements detailed in the Master plan. Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman, 12 pt \ I W Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5" 5 -11 U� ------- ------ - - - - -- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5.7 Vail 21, Lionshead Arcade, Lifthouse Lodge, Lions Pride Cluster This group of adjacent structures is critical to the ability of the Lionshead core to pull people into its core (see figure 5 -7). Because these buildings constitute a significant portion of the existing retail frontage in Lionshead, they greatly influence the overall character and image of Lionshead, especially for those who enter the core from the east. All possible measures and incentives should be taken to upgrade these buildings. Some recommended possibilities are described below. 5.7.1 Expansion of Ground Floor Retail Space The ground floor retail space on the east face of the Vail 21 and the south and west faces of the Lionshead Arcade should be expanded to meet the build -to lines shown on Map S. This will focus and define the pedestrian street by changing its spatial proportions and absorbing the existing grade changes that act as a barrier between the retail face and pedestrian traffic flow. In addition, it will greatly enhance the visual quality retail appeal of the first floor level and may help fund other architectural enhancements. 5.7.2 Architectural Improvements The architectural design guidelines (Chapter 8) discuss several transition tools that can be used to adapt an existing building to the new character and architectural quality desired for Lionshead. Given their high visibility and the extent to which they influence the quality of the pedestrian environment, these buildings should be a priority for exterior renovation and enhancement. 5.7.3 Pedestrian Circulation Between Vail 21 and Lionshead Arcade This courtyard space (see figure 5 -7), often thought to be public, is actually private property serving the Lionshead Arcade and Vail 21. Considered a "secondary pedestrian mall' (see chapter six), it is appropriate that it be more intimate and quieter than the primary retail mall. The entrance to the courtyard is secondary to the primary pedestrian flow along the south face of the Lionshead Arcade (see figure 5 -7). As redevelopment occurs, snowmelting of the pavement should be considered because the lack of winter sun causes ice and snow accumulations. During the summer, this space will continue to function best as a semi - public outdoor courtyard for the existing restaurant and adjacent retail businesses. 5.7.4 Pedestrian Access from Vantage Point Condominiums to the Retail Core A pedestrian connection should be maintained from the Vantage Point condominiums to the main retail mall (see figure 5 -7). This connection exists today, but the outdoor stairs and the steps on the east end of the Lions Pride building are not attractive and are sometimes dangerous. When the site is redeveloped, this connection should be moved west, adjacent to the east end of the Lif1house Lodge. Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman, 12 pt Deleted: In order to remove service vehicles from their current location in the pedestrian crosswalk area, a service and delivery facility should be developed at the western end of the Lionshead parking structure (see figure 4 -11).¶ Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5 ", First line: 0.5" 5.7.5 Lions Pride Building and Parking Deck The Lions Pride building and the parking deck across the alley are not in primary - - - - -- Formatted: Body Text Indent 2 locations in the retail core but, because they are in very questionable condition (both visually and physically), their redevelopment and compliance with the Master plan 5 -12 should be considered a priority. An opportunity exists to convert the existing alleyway into a true arrival point for these properties and an enhanced pedestrian walkway. The existing parking must be replaced, most likely underneath a new structure, and could be accessed directly from East Lionshead Circle or from the alley. 5.7.6 Service and Delivery The alley currently functions as a delivery staging area and for emergency vehicle access. It is hoped that the service and delivery functions can be relocated to the new facility proposed at the west end of the parking structure. If they must remain on -site, any redevelopment in this area must dedicate adequate space to servicing so that delivery trucks do not block the fire lane. M TREETOPS RETAIL / z R n 1V 5 -13 ENHANCED PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO EXISMG IETAIL SPACE TRAFFIC CONTROL STATION T IN / WEST OUT SKIER DROP OFF RETAIL OEVELOPMENC ON FACE OF PAMMO STUCIVRE nmury 5-6 -Ewt Liaar4 Pedearrran Portal 5 -14 Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5 ", First line: 0.5 LIONS iFAD ARCADE RETAIL EXPANSI • . fir '['►�y'� -. 'F .r- s � 1 1 � � ► , - Y► '� y {:• r,! 4F I MO w � ► s is VAR 21 LnrMOUSE 1 REDEVELOPED LIUMPRIDE HUMVINU LEDEVELOPED PARFJNG [)PC & Ptgwv3 - - Lawn Deleted• RETAIL EXPANSION Figure 5 -7- bonshead Arcade, Kati t, Lifteowe Lodge Lionspridc and &-Jewiai ed Parkag Deck 5 -15 1 ACCESS DRIVES ` EAST -WEST ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT ON — EXISTING PARKING DECK NORTH -SOUTH ORU94M DEVELOPMENT SPANNING ACCESS DRIB WESTWIND l I EAST -WEST ORIENTEI Z NORTH-SOUTH N VANTAGE POINT I� a� 1 � .�IIIII, t, 11111 s r.' r RBTAZL Deleted: P 5 -16 5.8 Lionshead Retail Core The Lionshead retail core (see figure 5 -8) is comprised of the Vail Associates core site, the surrounding pedestrian mall environment, and the retail faces of adjacent buildings. This central area is the heart and soul of Lionshead and constitutes the most critical area for public and private improvements. The Vail Associates core site represents the most likely near -term redevelopment project, but it is essential that the Town of Vail take all available steps to encourage and facilitate other efforts to enhance and redevelop the retail core. Specific recommendations are as follows: 5.8.1 Build -To Lines A significant problem in the retail mall today is the excessive distance between opposing retail faces, which causes pedestrians to interact with only one side of the street. To remedy this, build -to lines are recommended (see Map S) to create a continuous, well- defined retail experience in which all ground floor spaces directly address the pedestrian street. Of special note, the corridor defined by the build -to lines between the existing Landmark retail and Sunbird Lodge is centered on Tract C. In other words, the build -to lines in this east -west corridor will impact both the Vail Associates property and the Landmark Retail property equally. 5.8.2 Ground Level Retail Expansion Opportunities Ground floor retail expansion should be encouraged on existing structures that do not currently extend to their designated build -to lines and are not likely to be completely redeveloped. The most significant places for ground floor retail expansion are the - ir orth_ Deleted: east race or the Vail 21 east corner of the Lionshead Center Building and the south and west faces of the __. Deleted: b Lionshead Arcade building. 5.8.3 Pedestrian Connections Through the Core Site There is a critical north -south pedestrian connection between the ski yard and the proposed transportation and skier drop -off uses on the north day lot. This connection will require at least one north -south penetration through the Vail Associates core site, and there is an opportunity to create a second one, as shown in figure 5 -9. The east - west pedestrian corridor originating at the east Lionshead pedestrian portal should also be extended into the Vail Associates core site, connecting with the north -south corridors. These connections should be part of the "primary retail mall" (see site design guidelines, chapter 6) to reinforce the village character of the core. It is not necessary that flanking architectural forms be completely separated in order to define pedestrian corridors. Instead, opportunities to create significant architectural portals are encouraged to highlight the transition from one public space into another. 5.8.4 Hierarchy of Pedestrian Space The Lionshead retail core is composed of a hierarchy of primary and secondary pedestrian corridors and spaces (see site design guidelines, chapter 6), shown in figure 5 -9. While both are important to the total retail environment, the primary should read as the dominant pedestrian flow pattern. Transitions between these different domains should be well defined. 5 -17 • LIONS LIONSHEAD ARCADE LIONSMAD CENTER — VAIL 21 VAIL ASSOCIATES CORE SITE LANDMARK RETAJL CONCERT HAL.L, PLAZA t ff ( �7 i rpTunt iRF i nnrp Faum 1-8 - Liamikend Road Con Area 5-18 vit lei Ag Deleted: Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5 T w Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5" PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN CORRIDORS SECONOARN' PEDESTRIAN CORRIDORS SKI YARD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL LIONSQUARE LUL7 E PEDESTRIAN WALKS ` yw�_ � . -yam. � L /• .+ __-• , L ,. la t} �f►� f r l�J C IL JAI rok —� I EAST LIONSHEAD PEDESTRIAN PORTAL LIONSEIEAD PARKING STRUCTURE NOR'T'H LIONSim&D PEDESTRLAN FLAZA WEST LIONSHEAD PFDF4IRIAN PORTAL Figure 3-9 - Fast -We-vt and North :Sixth Livasheat Corr Federtriae Comdors 5 -19 5.8.5 Retail Space Allocation A primary goal of the Lionshead Master plan is to increase both the amount and the quality of retail space in the pedestrian core. The sunny south - facing sides of buildings (for example, at the Lifthouse Lodge and the creek side of the VA core site) are ideal for restaurants. The shadier north- facing sides are more appropriate for retail uses that do not benefit as much from a direct relationship with the outdoors. Use of ground floor commercial space for offices is not recommended on the primary pedestrian mall; these businesses should be located instead on the second story or outside the main pedestrian corridor. 5.8.6 Plazas and Nodes Dynamic pedestrian plazas and nodes are encouraged at each significant intersection in the retail core. Successful plazas are those that have good sun exposure, that are located on primary pedestrian corridors, and that are properly proportioned to encourage seating, eating, gathering and events. Successful nodes are concentrations of activities, landmarks and spaces where people want to congregate. Focal elements such as fountains, landscaping, and public art help to give each node a unique identify and serve as visual reference points. A fundamental objective of the master plan is to introduce these qualities in the Lionshead core. The central Lionshead public plaza, for example (shown in figure 5 -10), presents an opportunity to create a vibrant center of activity surrounded by active retail and restaurant spaces and animated with an ice rink. The development of a small infill building at the north edge of the plaza is recommended to define the space and introduce additional retail opportunities. The building could incorporate an underground service and delivery corridor to the north day lot transportation center. A food and beverage operation on a rooftop deck over this structure could provide a unique vantage point marking the new north Lionshead pedestrian portal and opening views into the central Lionshead plaza and up to the mountain. Because the Lionshead pedestrian mall is also an emergency vehicle access corridor, its proportions and the design of the elements within it must accommodate the turning movements and clearance requirements of fire trucks and other large vehicles. 5.8.7 The Core Site as a Priority Location for a Resort Hotel The Vail Associates core site has been identified as a priority location for a high -end resort hotel. Although the hotel would be a private development, the Town of Vail should take all reasonable measures to encourage and facilitate this goal. The benefits of a hotel in the Lionshead core, discussed throughout this document, include a significant increase in the Lionshead "live" bed base, an increase in the number of visitors in the retail core, and a stronger identity as a resort destination. 5.8.8 Pedestrian/ Retail Connection to West Lionshead Circle The most important missing link in the Lionshead retail mall is a direct connection between the east end of the Montaneros condominiums and the intersection of West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place. This connection would connect the Lionshead mall to West Lionshead Circle and would remove the awkward grade transition at 5 -20 Concert Hall Plaza. Figure 5 -11 suggests that, at the least, a connection could occur between the north side of the Montaneros and the south side of a redeveloped Concert Hall Plaza. The optimum solution would entail the redevelopment of Montaneros, enabling a direct connection with retail frontage on both sides (see figure 5 -12). SECONDARY PEDESTRIAN FLOW PATTEAN PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN REDEVELOPED CORESTTE FLOW PATTERT RSTAQ.FACB SURROUNDING V" AZA I t A. _. i I � �� � 1.A1JDAlARK LIFTIIOUSE 1 C� RETAIL LODGE 1 ut CENTRAL PP.DEST'RU.N PLAZA POTENTIAL ICE RINK OR PUBLIC ACTPATY ELEMENT NORTHLIONSIEAD PEDESTRIAN ) ORTAL WILL RETRY BUILDING 310KMCANr ORALS TRANSITION FROM TRANSPORTATION CENTER h8um L10 •Caws! Lnm*W PeAcr iw Ph= 5 -21 ASS WEST LIONSIiE %D PEDESTfl1AN PORTAL MONTA.NEROS ;1 REDEVELOPED CONCERT HALL PLAZA FIRE LANE NEW PEDESTRIAN CORRIDOR LIONSMAD RETAIL MAU Rom 5 -11 -War L10 hwi Alai Pbdwoun COMMhow Deleted: Note: Establishing the West Lionshead Pedestrian Portal was predicated on the removal of transit, drop -off and loading facilities. During the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study and it was determined that these facilities should remain in place. A pedestrian portal in this location is still desired, but will need to be done in conjunction with maintaining transit, drop -off and loading uses. I uoNaflewn R6 FAM 5 -22 PEDE9TRIAWBICYCLE ACCESS r' Formatted: Indent: First line: 0.5" r N. ' fi l A tICHSHEAD LETAIL MALI. figure S -1: -Wen LronrheadAlalll'edsrrrtan f n�uam Deleted: Note: Establishing the West Lionshead Pedestrian Portal was predicated on the removal of transit Formatted: Bullets and Numbering drop -off and loading facilities. luring the 2009/2010 Lionshead Transit Study and it was determined Formatted: Not Highlight that these facilities should remain in place. A pedestrian portal in this location is still desired, but will Deleted: While the North Day Lot is a need to be done in conjunction with maintaining transit, drop -off and loading uses. privately own parcel of land, consideration should be given by the owner and the Town to including transportation related uses on the ground floor. Ideally the uses to be considered �orth Day Lot for the site should include skier drop -off, ,1t the time the Lionshead Redevelo - ment Master Plan was adopted the North Dav Lot was local and regional trensit local an 1 - - - - - -- — - - - -- -- - - - - -- - - -- --- - - - -•- --- identified as a potential location for a central transit facility. During subsequent ubsequent study of the Deleted: site in 2008 and 2009 it was determined that the Town would not pursue locating a transit Form Not Highlight center on this site. In lieu of a transit center the North Day Lot has been programmed to `. Deleted: to p- provide affordable housing along with a skier drop -off parking lot. -------------------- p , 5-23 V - ------ - --- - ---- ------- ---- ------ --------------- - -- 5.10 ontaner ---- - - - - -- os, Concert Hall Plaza Landmark Tower and Townhomes ------------------------------ These three properties form the wall that separates the pedestrian retail mall from west Lionshead lodges and residential properties. Although each property has particular issues and redevelopment potential, they are discussed together because of their proximity and common i relationship to the pedestrian .mall. The potential that these three properties could work i together in a joint redevelopment effort is limited because the Landmark Townhomes and Montaneros are condominium associations. The conceptual master plan for this area (see figure 5 -14) assumes that each property redevelops independently. However, the best planning scenarios for these properties (and for the west pedestrian/ retail mall) involve joint efforts and the possible realignment of existing property lines. If redevelopment pressures build for these properties, the Town of Vail should take all reasonable measures to encourage and facilitate cooperation among the owners. 1 ■ LMDi,IARi MONTANERDS i nauevea.ae� - NCERT HAIL. L h \ I 1 t WEST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE RENOVA ED/REDEVELOPED LANDMARK TnWNHAMES NORTH DAY KNENT AL NORTH -9 OF RFnF.VF3.OPED LAHM POTENnAL COMMON Lot RCCRPAMON AMr NrrY 0 OF REDEVELOPED I TL FOTEN[IAL I COMPONENTOFRM LAD'DMARC TO Deleted: Deleted: I Formatted: Bullets and Numbering Figure 5 - i4 - landmark TOwnAoxv&Moarenemu %Calvert Nall Pkara 5 -24 5.10.1 Landmark Tower and Townhomes Two important issues face this property: access and redevelopment of the Townhomes. The Landmark Tower currently has an informal agreement with Vail Associates that allows it to utilize the north day lot for guest arrivals and drop -offs. It is unlikely that this use can continue in the same way after development of a transit center on the site. Planning for development of the north day lot should explore all possibilities to integrate a new front door for the Landmark into the new facility. There is also an opportunity for the Landmark Tower to expand its lower level lobby over its existing parking deck, possibly tying in with the shelter building proposed at the transit center. Perhaps the best scenario for improving the Landmark's access is in conjunction with redevelopment of the Townhomes. This would make possible the creation of a drop -off loop integrated into the west end of the Landmark or an access drive and drop -off loop on the existing fire lane south of the structure. The latter would only be possible if a new pedestrian corridor /fire lane is created into the pedestrian core area. A joint redevelopment effort by the Townhomes, Concert Hall Plaza and Montaneros would present the greatest range of opportunities to resolve the access issue. There is little opportunity for expansion of the Townhomes because it is hemmed in by property lines to the north and by the fire lane and property lines to the south. One possibility is a structure oriented north -south over the west end of the North Day Lot. However, there would be potential conflicts with the volume of traffic entering the north day lot from this end. With cooperation from Concert Hall Plaza and Montaneros, the property might be able to expand to the south. 5.10.2 Concert Hall Plaza/Montaneros Concert Hall Plaza was intended to be the western portal into the Lionshead pedestrian core, but pedestrians can't see where it leads and don't use it. When this property is redeveloped, a priority will be to create a connection as direct as possible between the western terminus of the pedestrian core and the intersection of West Lionshead Circle and Lionshead Place. The concept illustrated in figure 5 -11 would require cooperation with the Town of Vail to remove the existing bus drop -off, as well as Montaneros and the Landmark Townhomes. (The scenario in figure 5 -11 would require a small property acquisition from the Landmark in the northeast corner of the redeveloped structure.) The redeveloped structure could accommodate a vertical residential component as well. This is the most feasible solution for a strong pedestrian connection, but the best solution would entail a cooperative redevelopment effort with the Montaneros. The Town of Vail should make all reasonable efforts to encourage and facilitate this redevelopment. However, the need to maintain a bus stop and some level of short-term parking and loading/delivery functions on Town -owned land adjacent to Concert Hall Plaza will be an important consideration in the re- development of these properties. 5 -25 5.11 Ski Yard Improvements recommended for the Lionshead ski yard are as follows: 5.11.1 Relationship to the Lionshead Pedestrian Mall There is a significant grade change between the ski yard and the retail mall. As suggested in figure 5 -15, a better grade transition could be designed at the north edge of the ski yard to make it a more usable public space and to articulate a strong linkage between the urban environment of the retail mall and the open environment of the ski yard. 5.11.2 Skier Bridge The existing skier bridge is a landmark but needs to be replaced. The new bridge should be visually compatible with the desired character of Lionshead and wide enough to separate skiers and pedestrians. -- PRC"ED GORE CREEK RECthAr'ON PATH BY-PASS l UONSQUARE L IXICIP LANDSCAPE SCREENING 0 �xnM I InNSSFA PIACT n wc-a / LG / 50RErW RAN CO FRnU I 'GRAN CONNECTION OF RETAIL D" MAIL WITH SKI YARD 9KI YARD/PUBLIC EVD4T POTENTIAL SPACE FRAMED BY PEDESTRIAN PAIN APREs sKl ON TOP OT GONDOLA T[RHDdAL Figure 5 -/5 Pntmnal Ski Yud Enwm—enn F NEW "LANDMARK' SKIER BRIDGE WALK OJNNECiION TO K.B. RANCH RESTAURANT 5 -26 5.11.3 Connections As depicted in figure 5 -15, pedestrian path connections should be provided from the north end of ski yard and the gondola terminal to the Gore Creek recreation path, the skier bridge, and the southeast corner of the Lion Square Lodge (location of the KB Ranch Restaurant). 5.11.4 Screening and Landscaping Lion Square Lodge should be involved in planning enhancements in the ski yard. Landscaping is desirable to screen the building at the west edge of the yard, but in the central area would conflict with skier operations and the yard's potential to function as a village green for community gathering and summer recreation. 5.11.5 Potential Setback Encroachments by Adjacent Property Owners Since the Ski Yard functions as an outdoor recreation and special events area, rather than a traditional development site, encroachments within adjacent property owners' prescribed setback areas adjacent to the Ski Yard may be considered. 5.12 Lion Square Lodge The Lion Square Lodge, located at the end of Lionshead Place, occupies two parcels. The main parcel (phases 1, 2, and 3) borders the ski yard and the Gore Creek recreation path. The north parcel (phase 4) is located north of the Lionshead Place cul -de -sac. Several issues arise because of this split configuration. 5.12.1 Traffic Concerns The primary concern of the Lion Square Lodge property owners is the existing and potential volume of traffic (both lodging vehicles and delivery vehicles) that accesses the Vail Associates core site. The current access into the core site passes between Lion Square's main and north properties, resulting in an unsafe and poorly defined connection between the buildings. When the Vail Associates core site is redeveloped, the mitigation of lodging and service vehicle impacts on the Lion Square Lodge will be essential. Service vehicles should not be allowed to stage outside of the core site or to cause visual, audible, or air pollution impacts. 5.12.2 Pedestrian Connection between the Main Building and the North Building Potential redevelopment must address the need for a clear pedestrian connection and defined vehicular corridor between the main Lion Square Lodge property and the north building on the other side of Lionshead Place (see figure 5 -16). 5.12.3 Ski Yard Pedestrian Access The pedestrian path around the north end of the Lion Square Lodge should be upgraded to provide an attractive and safe pedestrian connection from Lionshead Place into the ski yard. Because the path is close to the residential units in the northern end of the Lion Square building, landscaping and other screening methods will be needed. It is not recommended that this pedestrian access be emphasized, but only that it be of better quality. The west Lionshead pedestrian portal is more important as the western point of entry into the core area. 5 -27 5.12.4 Potential Development and Redevelopment Scenarios Lion Square Lodge is in need of major exterior renovations or redevelopment. Figure 5- 16 presents a scenario by which the Lodge could add significant density, enabling the creation of a strong architectural edge to Lionshead Place, a direct connection between the main and north Lodge properties, and a screened parking and arrival area. Another redevelopment scenario (not illustrated) entails relocation of the existing core site access road to a new dedicated access on the north side of Lion Square's north building. This would enable redevelopment to connect the primary Lion Square Lodge building with its north property. Issues associated with this scenario include the proximity of this new intersection to the adjacent West Lionshead Circle intersection and the potential for noise and visual impacts on the south side of the Montaneros property. 5 -28 5.13 LANDSCAFB SCREENING ALONG FACE OF LIONSQUARE LODGE POTENTIAL DINER COURTYARD AND ARRIVAL POINT UONSOUARE LODGE Lf POTENTIAL REDEVELOPMEVT OF LLONSQUARE LODGE - NORTH BUILDING PEDISTRIANIVEMCLE CONNE17nON OF LIONSQUARE LODGE AND LICKSQUARE "WORT Yr PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE CONNECTION TO RETAIL CORE POTENTIAL NEW DEVELOPMEN PROVIDES "EDGE' TO STREET LIONSHEAD PLACE PMESIRIAN CONNECTION TO SKI YARD ngwe 5.16 . LonSquare Lodge ,The Marriott �, With approximately 320 rooms, the Marriott is the largest supply of hot beds in Lionshead. The single largest structure in Lionshead, it is also very visible, especially from the west. It is consequently a high priority renovation project, and all reasonable measures should be taken by the Town of Vail to encourage and facilitate its enhancement. Specific issues regarding this property are as follows: 5.13.1 Redevelopment or Development of the Parking Structure The best opportunity for new development on the Marriott property is the existing parking structure (figure 5 -17). If this site is developed, attention should be given to the relationship between the development, Gore Creek, the Gore Creek recreation path, and the west day lot. Vertical development should step back from the recreation path, and 5 -29 Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5 ", First line: 0.5" Deleted: I 9 9 1 1 Formatted: Bullets and Numbering there should be a clear separation (most likely a landscape buffer) between the public space of the recreation path and the private space of the residential units. 5.13.2 Infill Opportunities There are several tennis courts on the south side of the Marriott. This area presents an opportunity for low -rise infill development that eases the visual and physical transition from the existing structure to the Gore Creek recreation path. 5.13.3 Opportunities for Facade Renovation Exterior renovation of the Marriott is a community priority, but the size and dimensions of the structure present a challenge, and it is unlikely that the architectural design guidelines (see chapter 8) can be fully met. However, this should not discourage exterior renovation, and the Town of Vail Design Review Board should insure that the intent of the guidelines is met. (This is a basic premise of the architectural design guidelines, relevant to all existing buildings in Lionshead.) 5.13.4 West Lionshead Circle in Front of the Marriott Any future development or redevelopment of the Marriott property should include a continuous secondary pedestrian walk on the south side of West Lionshead Circle. A pavement snowmelt system is strongly recommended because of icing problems on the walkway in winter. 5.13.5 Preservation of Existing Accommodation Units The Marriott presently contains 276 short term accommodation units. In addition, the Marriott also contains a restaurant, lounge, spa, and meeting space facilities incidental to the operation of the hotel. Given the importance and need for short term accommodations to the vitality and success of the community, any future redevelopment of the site shall ensure the preservation of short term accommodation units on the site. The preservation of short term accommodations should focus on maintaining the number of existing hotel beds and the amount of gross residential square footage on the site as well as requiring the preservation of 276 accommodation units. With this in mind, the quality of the existing accommodation unit room could be upgraded and the rooms could be reconfigured to create multi-room suites. In no instance, however, should the amount of gross residential floor area devoted to accommodation units be reduced. In fact, opportunities for increasing the number of accommodation units beyond the existing 276 units already on -site should be evaluated during the development review process. For example, the construction of "attached accommodation units ", as defined in the Zoning Regulations, could significantly increase the availability of short term rental opportunities within the building. 5 -30 0 %W POTENnALL INFILLS ON EMSTING TENNIS COURTS POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ON EXISTING PARKING DECK -4w, NOW ' • +�• 1 V- 7u1 EXmTmG STRUMURE I IAARRTOrT WEST IJONSHEAID CIRCLE Figure 5-17- Ae Mamoa 5-31 5.14 Antlers Lodge Like the Marriott, the Antlers Lodge is a large and highly visible structure in need of exterior renovation. It, too, should be considered a priority redevelopment project. Figure 5 -18 illustrates a potential development scenario that involves partial screening of the existing tower and an enhanced fapade along Lionshead Place. Design considerations described for the Marriott also apply to the Antlers; any addition or renovation should conform to the architectural design guidelines in chapter 8. In addition, a heated sidewalk along the north edge of the property, an on -site loading and delivery area, and a remedy for the bike path problem caused by the pool should be part of any redevelopment. 5.15 Lionshead Inn, Lionshead Annex, Enzian Cluster Redevelopment and/or enhancement of the buildings in this cluster at West Lionshead Circle and South Frontage Road (see figure 5 -19) is encouraged. 5.15.1 The Pedestrian Street The existing structures are recessed from the street, elevated above it, and separated from it by surface parking lots. To improve the pedestrian character of the neighborhood, a better relationship with the street is desirable. The principal objective for redevelopment in this area is to engage the surrounding pedestrian environment, either by adding building elements toward the street or by lowering the finish grade at the entries so that they are closer to the level of the street. 5.15.2 Access and Street Frontage The existing accesses into these properties should be adjusted to align with the opposing curb cuts on the east side of West Lionshead Circle. The street edge should be strengthened for pedestrian use with landscaping, enhanced signage, and retaining walls as described in the site design guidelines, chapter six. The Lionshead Inn secured a permit in the past which is now expired to add another vehicular access point from the South Frontage Road, and the property owner is encouraged to pursue the opportunity to screen the surface parking lot on the north and regrade the lot to reduce the significant cross - slope. 5.15.3 Building Height Because it sits considerably above the frontage road, the Lionshead Inn is encouraged to explore a ground level or lower floor infill solution if development scenarios are pursued. Additional building height, if proposed, must conform to the design guidelines. 5.15.4 Preservation of Existing Live Beds The Lionshead Inn and Lionshead Annex presently contain 85 accommodation units. Given the importance and need for live beds to the vitality and success of the community, any future redevelopment of the sites shall ensure the preservation of short tern accommodation on the site. The preservation of live beds should focus on maintaining the number of existing live beds and the amount of gross residential square footage devoted to that use on the site. With this in mind, the quality of the existing live bed base could be upgraded and the rooms could be reconfigured to create increased lodging opportunities. In no instance, however, shall the amount of gross residential 5 -32 I floor area devoted to live beds be reduced. The construction of "attached accommodation units ", "lodge dwelling units ", "timeshare units ", "fractional fee club units ", and dwelling units in a voluntary rental program, as defined in the Zoning Regulations, could significantly increase the availability of short term rental opportunities within the building. VEHICULAR TURN kROUND AND GORE CREW RECREATION PATH ACCESS EXISTM ANTLERS BURMING I — POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT J KC.RRF.F.NnJO FA1STtNG HUr_DING PELESTRIAN WALKS LIONSHFaD PLACE VEHICULAR ENTRYIDROP -OFF POINT Figure 5 -18 - Potennz1 ARdr -s Condominium Redewtopm4m 5 -33 MONTANEROS � MARRIOTT F EN23AN EL son .o LION'SHEAD INN VAILGLO Figam 5-19- Liowhead Inn, Yaillglo Lodge ani The Eruiaa 5 -34 5.16 Vail Spa The Vail Spa's unique architectural style will be difficult to adapt to the new architectural design guidelines for Lionshead, and no attempt to do so is recommended. However, the Vail Spa has several developable areas on its property, notably its existing tennis courts. Any future development or redevelopment of this property should comply with the intent of the master plan and the design guidelines. If South Frontage Road is realigned, the length of West Lionshead Circle around the western end of the property will increase, opening an opportunity for infill development, possibly offices or other commercial use (see figure 5 -20). In view of its close proximity to the frontage road, the Vail Spa must be involved in all discussions concerning future frontage road realignment or infill development. SECONDARY PEDESTRIAN WALK PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN WALK J POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ON MARRIOTT PARKING DECK j (— POTENTIAL CONFERENCE OR COMMERCIAL II 1 1 COMPONENT OF WEST DAY LOT DEVELOPl2NC i u VAM SP S 4 b ' POTI NrIAL VAIL ASSOULA IL"J SBRVR.E YARD DEVELOPMENT RE- ALIGNED WEST LIONSHEAD CIRCLE POTENTIAL OFFICE BUILDING DEVELOPMENT PEDESTRIAN NODE CONNECTING WEST LION3UEAD CIRCLE [t) W " T END PEDES I RL1N(TRANSfr CONNECTION Figure 5 -20 �# m met r ry 1� • �_ v' 1 •~ � �,r V POTENTIAL OFFICE BUILDING DEVELOPMENT PEDESTRIAN NODE CONNECTING WEST LION3UEAD CIRCLE [t) W " T END PEDES I RL1N(TRANSfr CONNECTION Figure 5 -20 5.17 West Lionshead West Lionshead includes the Vail Associates Service Yard, Holy Cross site, Vail Professional Building site, Cascade Crossings site, Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site and the Eagle River Water and Sanitation site. 5.17.1 South Frontage Road Improvements and Vehicular Access Planning for West Lionshead must consider two different scenarios: the realignment of South Frontage Road and its retention in the existing alignment. While the introduction of lift service is viable in either of these Frontage Road alternatives, site design will vary depending upon what happens to the Frontage Road alignment. See Figures 4 -9a, and 4 -9b for the Frontage Road realignment alternatives. Notwithstanding these different Frontage Road scenarios, there should be an increase of existing office square footage and "no net loss" of retail square footage as a result of the redevelopment of these parcels. Furthermore, service and delivery for West Lionshead shall occur underground or be hidden from public view. Service and delivery truck turning maneuvers should not negatively impact traffic flow on the South Frontage Road. With a realignment of vehicular access points, attention should be given to the location of service and parking areas. a. Retention of Existing Frontage Road Alignment If the Frontage Road remains in its current location the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross parcels, the Vail Professional Building site, and /Cascade Crossing and the Glen Lyon Office Building site all remain viable development sites. The most viable site for a public parking facility would be the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross parcels. While other lift locations are feasible, the old gas station site is a viable location for a base terminal. This location would require a grade separated pedestrian crossing over the Frontage Road to the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross parcels. A strong east -west oriented pedestrian corridor with ground floor retail uses would be necessary to create a strong connection between this area and the rest of Lionshead. Under this Frontage Road scenario the Vail Professional Building site and Cascade Crossing could be developed as a contiguous parcel. In keeping with Policy Objective 2.3.4, Improved Access and Circulation, of the Plan, opportunities for public transportation and vehicular circulation improvements shall be explored in conjunction with any future redevelopment of the sites. Possible opportunities for improvements may include, an improved mass transit stop, relocated/reduced /shared points of entry/exiting, restricted access points, acceleration/ deceleration lanes, greater sight distances, dedicated turning lanes, landscaped medians and skier drop -off. In the redevelopment of Cascade Crossing and the Glen Lyon Office Building site under the current configuration of the Frontage Road, the bus stops in front of said properties shall be enhanced with, for example, shelters, benches, and landscaping. Pedestrian connections shall be improved from the bus shelters, across the South Frontage Road and to and from the surrounding buildings to provide safe and attractive pedestrian crossing and connections. Improvements may include crosswalks, walkways, pedestrian crossing warning lights, medians, and signage. 5 -36 PEDnTRIANMANSn' (:ORRIDOR VAIL SANITIMON PLANT RE- ALIGNED FOREST ROAD CONNE(MON A Nk IL It T 7�� 1 •`� • ` •� REST DAY LOT DEVELOPNIEA'T ?ARCEL F'iglve S -SI -Wzst 4wnshead Circulannn Altrrnan�e ',4' - 5outA Frontage Hwd ltr.•�1(grunent b. Frontage Road Realignment The greatest benefit of this realignment alternative is that it results in one very large and contiguous development parcel and in doing so integrates the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross site with the West Day Lot by removal of the barrier created by the existing Frontage Road alignment. It also creates the best pedestrian environment in creating an extension of the Lionshead Retail area in that it provides the potential to establish a convenient and desirable pedestrian connection to the rest of Lionshead. With this alternative the most viable site for a public parking facility would still be the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross parcels. With the re- location of the Frontage Road lift 5 -37 REDUCED SCOPE VAIL ASSOCIATES SERVICn VA" ' EMPLOYEE HOUSING DEVEL.OPMEN PARCEL VAIL ASSOCUTES SER%ICE YARD DEVELOPMENT PARCEL PEDnTRIANMANSn' (:ORRIDOR VAIL SANITIMON PLANT RE- ALIGNED FOREST ROAD CONNE(MON A Nk IL It T 7�� 1 •`� • ` •� REST DAY LOT DEVELOPNIEA'T ?ARCEL F'iglve S -SI -Wzst 4wnshead Circulannn Altrrnan�e ',4' - 5outA Frontage Hwd ltr.•�1(grunent b. Frontage Road Realignment The greatest benefit of this realignment alternative is that it results in one very large and contiguous development parcel and in doing so integrates the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross site with the West Day Lot by removal of the barrier created by the existing Frontage Road alignment. It also creates the best pedestrian environment in creating an extension of the Lionshead Retail area in that it provides the potential to establish a convenient and desirable pedestrian connection to the rest of Lionshead. With this alternative the most viable site for a public parking facility would still be the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross parcels. With the re- location of the Frontage Road lift 5 -37 w access out of the old gas station site would not require a grade separated pedestrian crossing to the Maintenance Yard/Holy Cross parcels. However, a grade separated crossing over the Red Sandstone Creek would be needed to link the Holy Cross site with the Vail Professional Building site. This alternative would also present the opportunity for enhancing Red Sandstone Creek to make it more accessible to the community and an aesthetically pleasing water feature. Enhancements might include; streambank stabilization/ beautification, natural stream drop structures, interactive low flow areas and general improvements for wetlands and wildlife habitiat. Any modification or enhancement to the creek corridor would be subject to U.S. Army Corp of Engineers approval. A strong east -west oriented pedestrian corridor with ground floor retail uses would be necessary to create a strong connection between this area and the rest of Lionshead. In keeping with Policy Objective 2.3.4, Improved Access and Circulation, of the Plan, opportunities for public transportation and vehicular circulation improvements shall be explored in conjunction with any future redevelopment of the Frontage Road and interior roads within the redevelopment of the West Lionshead sites. Possible opportunities for improvements may include improved mass transit stops, relocated/reduced /shared points of entry/exiting, restricted access points, acceleration/ deceleration lanes, roundabouts at major intersections, greater sight distances, dedicated turning lanes, landscaped medians and skier drop -off. 5.17.2 Pedestrian and Bike Access As compared to a separate, free - standing portal, West Lionshead is considered a part of the greater Lionshead area. In order for this area to be successful, it is important to have a strong pedestrian connection with the rest of Lionshead. Streetscape improvements including bike lanes or trails and sidewalks should be incorporated in any redevelopment along West Lionshead Circle and the South Frontage Road to improve the viability of mixed uses in West Lionshead. Improvements to street lighting, walking surfaces, trails, seating areas and public art that facilitate safe and attractive pedestrian and bike movement are strongly encouraged. Said improvements may necessitate the need for access easements through the sites. In the redevelopment of West Lionshead, pedestrian and bike connections shall be made to integrate with the rest of Lionshead and Cascade Village. There is an existing recreation path that runs across the southwest corner of the Glen Lyon Office Building site. If the site redevelops the recreation path shall be enhanced to meet town recreational path standards and to provide a safe and attractive pedestrian and bike experience. The improvements shall include a public easement over the path where necessary. 5.17.3 Preservation of Existing Office and Retail Space There shall be an increase in office space and no net loss of retail space in West Lionshead. Opportunities for increasing the square footage of office and retail beyond the existing conditions in West Lionshead shall be evaluated during the development review process. Currently, West Lionshead offices and businesses offer a variety of 5 -38 local services and amenities, which is important to preserve with the redevelopment of West Lionshead. During the winter months, the proposed ski lift in West Lionshead and the associated parking will generate significant pedestrian traffic and activity. However, consideration should be given to how West Lionshead can be an active and vibrant place year- round. One way this can be accomplished is the reinforcement of a well - crafted program of specialty retailers, offices, and restaurants that attract both tourists and local residents. Also, quality architecture and the creation of appealing outdoor spaces in and of itself will encourage people to visit this area. An active program of public art, residential units that are used for "artists in residence" or a culinary school are examples of uses that could create a catalyst for activity. In conjunction with any application to develop a new ski lift, a market study which analyzes the appropriate amount of office /retail square footage shall be included in the redevelopment of West Lionshead. 5.17.4 Relationship to Red Sandstone Creek and Gore Creek Red Sandstone Creek and Gore Creek abut the Glen Lyon Office Building site, former gas station site, Holy Cross site and the Vail Professional Building site. Any redevelopment of these parcels should consider how the creeks can be enhanced and made an amenity of this redevelopment area. A substantial stand of mature trees exists on the banks of the two creeks, with low lying brush on the shores. Every effort shall be taken to preserve the substantial trees and natural steep slopes along the banks of both creeks. While the natural riparian corridor of these streams needs to remain protected and preserved, the physical and visual relationships and references between adjacent development and the stream tract should be strengthened. Improved public access and utilization of Gore Creek and Red Sandstone Creek for fishing and other recreational purposes is strongly encouraged to create a catalyst for activity and enjoyment of the streams. 5.17.5 Architectural Improvements The architectural design guidelines (Chapter 8) discuss several transition tools that can be used to adapt an existing building to the new character and architectural quality desired for Lionshead. Given the high visibility of the buildings in West Lionshead and the extent to which they influence the quality of the experience of passers -by, all future development of the sites should be closely scrutinized for compliance with the applicable architectural design guidelines. For properties that are east of Red Sandstone Creek, in West Lionshead, higher densities and building heights may be appropriate, particularly to encourage the development of employee housing. However, any development must meet the overall character and visual intent of this master plan and be compatible with the adjacent existing development of the Marriott and the Vail Spa. Notwithstanding the height allowances of the underlying zone districts, building height and massing shall be responsive to the Gore Creek and Red Sandstone Creek corridors, in that buildings shall gradually "step down" at the creek sides. Building height and massing shall also "step down" towards the Interstate, and at the western end of 5 -39 s A Lionshead. Figure 5 -25 provides a general depiction of how building height shall gradually lower at the western end of this study area. The intent of these height standards is that building height reduces by entire floor levels in the locations as generally depicted on Figure 5 -25. Notwithstanding the height allowances depicted on Figure 5 -25, which depicts building height in an east/ west orientation, building height and massing shall also "step down" in a north/ south orientation. Notwithstanding the height allowances depicted on Figure 5 -25, buildings fronting directly along Gore Creek and the western end of Lionshead shall express no more than three to four levels before "stepping back" to taller building mass. On the Interstate side of this area, building design shall be articulated to avoid large expanses of shear /unbroken wall planes. PEDESTitA?v M"SIT CORRIDOR ✓ ' »a0. J� 1 S. M. t '`• i fir.• RF.- A[.ICSNFD SOUTH FRONTAGE ROAD �1 L KEDUCED SCOPE VAIL ASSOCIATES SERVICE YARD EMPLOYEE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PARCEL VAIL ASSOCIATES SERVICE YARD DEVELOPMENT PARCEL L- wp;T PAY f_(Yr nvvri.nPMFNT PARC -F.t. R3- ALIGNED WEST UONSHEAD CIRCLE MAINTAIN E)QSTING ?OREST ROAD CONNECTION - VAIL SANITATION PLANT r POTENTIAL MOUNTAIN SERVICE ACCESS ROUTE �►� . Q , ` �wr 5 -40 F4W 3.22 -West Liowhead ChrtAadon Attenattae B' Rauh FnxwV Rood Re-AfiVwwnt 5.17.6 Redevelopment Considerations for Glen Lyon Office Building site Consistent with its location at the western edge of West Lionshead and with respect to the extensive frontage along Gore Creek, it is appropriate to recognize certain development limitations and opportunities regardless of the underlying zone district. 5.17.6.1 Height Building heights shall be consistent with Figure 5 -25, West Lionshead Building Massing and Height Limitations. Notwithstanding the height limitations set forth in Figure 5 -25, the maximum height for buildings on the Glen Lyon Office Building site shall not exceed 56 feet. 5.17.6.2 Residential Land Use and Density Existing physical improvements on the Glen Lyon Office Building site include a three -story building with 10,829 square feet of general office space and a surface parking lot. Because of the site's physical location along Gore Creek, it's accessibility to Lionshead Village, and the adjacent potential redevelopment including a ski -lift and activity center, it may be appropriate to introduce a mix of uses on site. If residential uses are proposed, the use shall be consistent with the Master Plan goal to increase the number of `Live Beds' in Lionshead. Residential density on the site should be studied and proposed in a manner that is compatible with the character and scale of adjacent uses and Gore Creek. ,Residential uses - should - be located on - the _basement or _garden level and Deleted: <sy second floor and above in buildings on -site. If residential uses are proposed on the street level or first floor, the vitality of the pedestrian and bike experience shall be considered along with the function and character of the adjacent uses and structure design. The mixture of land uses on the Glen Lyon Office Building site shall maintain a balance between residential, office/ commercial and recreational uses to serve both the visitor and the permanent resident. 5.17.6.3 Office Land Use Consistent with the Master Plan requirement for an increase of office space, the existing 10,829 square feet of office space shall be replaced and increased on -site. 5.17.6.4 Employee Housing All (100 %) of the employee housing requirements associated with the Glen Lyon Office Building site, as required by the Vail Town Code, shall be met on -site. 5.17.6.5 Landscape Preservation & Relationship to Red Sandstone & Gore Creeks 5 -41 The Glen Lyon Office Building site borders on the Red Sandstone Creek along the east property line and the Gore Creek along the south property line. The redevelopment of the Glen Lyon Office Building site should consider how the creeks can be enhanced and made an amenity of the area. A substantial stand of mature trees exists on the banks of the two creeks, with low lying brush on the shores. Every effort shall be taken to preserve the substantial trees and natural steep slopes along the banks of both creeks. While the natural riparian corridor of these streams needs to remain protected and preserved, the physical and visual relationships and references between adjacent development and the stream tract should be strengthened. Improved public access and utilization of Gore Creek and Red Sandstone Creek for fishing and other recreational purposes is strongly encouraged to create a catalyst for activity and enjoyment of the streams. 5-42 r E?amm FOREST AOADALttAbMNT PAIL SANITA WN PLANT PO7BNAAL MOUNTAIN SFAVta ACCM ROUTE „ r # y `' y 1, `/ am. ; •Mr 1r RFINI['F.ngMIF VA[. ARW("ATFS SERVICE YARD EMPLOYEE HOUSING DEVUOPMLNT PARCEL VAIL ASSOCIATES SERVICE YARD IEVELOPMENT PARCEL PEDESTIMN CRUBBING ACROSS SOUTH FRONTAGE ROAD MAINTAIN DUNG SOUr--I FRONTAGE ROAD ALIGNMENT L WEST LAY LOT DEVE LDPMPNT PARCEL L=TINO WEST LIONSWAD CIRCLE ALIGNMENT . 1 r 5-19 -Wdut Lkmhnd Cbarty = Aianm m 'A' -IQ kuk 6yWft rmfflc P artrni Formatted: Indent: First line: 0.5" 543 - I_, 11111row f REALIGNED FO RFST ROAD POTENTIAL VAIL RESORTS SERVICE YARD DEVELOPMENT WEST UONSHEAD TRANSITMEMSM4N CORRIDOR PmEsmm PATH 'GREENBELT" co•pcnom TO WKE CRUX CORRIDOR L WEST 1LIONSHEAD CIRCLE PRIMARY PEDESTRIAN WALK Formatted: Indent: Left: I", First line: 0.5" Deleted: -qp 5.18 Old Town Shops ,'he ld w f ora variety of - uses - *!qugho�_the_ master_pj Deleted: ,p p ton - -------- s hops targeted -------------- process, including employee housing, expansion of the Vail sanitation plant, and Vail Associates mountain services. These uses were thought to be appropriate for the site, but it was recognized they were all not compatible. In 2003 the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District 5-44 aoRE cRxL.x RucRrATic4 PATH — POTENTIAL WEST DAY LOT DEVELOPMEWT purchased the old town shops site. The site was redeveloped with a surface parking lot. Additionally, in 2004 Vail Resorts constructed a bridge across the Gore Creek from this site to provide possible future mountain operations access to Vail Mountain. 5 19 Old Town Shops The old town shops site had been targeted for a variety of uses throughout the master planning process, including employee housing, expansion of the Vail sanitation plant, and Vail Associates mountain services. These uses were thought to be appropriate for the site, but it was recognized they were all not compatible. In 2003 the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District purchased the old town shops site. The site was redeveloped with a surface parking lot. Additionally, in 2004 Vail Resorts constructed a bridge across the Gore Creek from this site to provide possible future mountain operations access to Vail Mountain. 5.20 Evergreen Lodge at Vail —{ The Evergreen Lodge is located directly east of the Middle Creek Stream Tract and is bordered to the north by the South Frontage Road, to the south by the Vail Valley Medical Center, and to the east by the WestStar Bank office building. The lot area is 114,337 square feet or 2.625 acres. Physical improvements that currently exist on the site are a nine story stucco hotel/condominium structure with an adjoining two -story hotel facilities wing, two below -grade structured parking garages, and paved surface parking. The nine story structure has a predominant east -west orientation along the southerly edge of the site while the facilities wing has a north -south orientation along the western edge of the site. The eastern parking garage is utilized by the Vail Valley Medical Center for employee parking and is accessed from the South Frontage Road through a shared entry/exit with the WestStar Bank office building. Opportunities for future improvements and upgrades include: • Creation of more underground parking; • Architectural enhancements consistent with the Lionshead Architectural Design Guidelines; • Improved exterior lighting; • Coordinated vehicular access; • Improved streetscape and landscaping along the South Frontage Road; • Improved pedestrian circulation; and • Upgraded and expanded hotel accommodations and amenities 5.19.1 Pedestrian Access Pedestrian access should be upgraded to provide a safe and attractive pedestrian connection from the South Frontage Road, through the Evergreen Lodge development site, to West Meadow Drive with a continuous pedestrian/bicycle path along the South Frontage Road, as depicted on Map T herein. A gravel path connecting the South Frontage Road to the paved pedestrian path located on the east side of the Dobson Ice Arena presently exists along the south side of the property. This path, while functional, receives little, if any, regular maintenance and includes a railroad tie set of stairs that is unsafe and in disrepair. There are currently no pedestrian improvements located along the South Frontage Road. Though no improvements exist, a fair number of pedestrians use the southerly edge of the South Frontage Road when entering or exiting the site. In Deleted: - - - - -- Page Break----- - Formatted: Bullets and Numbering - For matted: Bullets and Numbering 545 order to improve pedestrian access and safety, it is recommended that future redevelopment of the site includes the construction of a continuous pedestrian/bicycle path along the South Frontage Road and that the existing gravel path along the southerly edge of the site be improved and regularly maintained. Said improvements may necessitate the need for pedestrian access easements through the site. 5.19.2 South Frontage Road Improvements and Vehicular Access The site is currently accessed by vehicles off of the South Frontage Road from two, full movement, two -way access points. The current location of these access points relative to the existing access points for the WestStar Bank Building, Vail Valley Medical Center parking structure, Town of Vail Municipal Buildings, and potential future access points to the Vail Valley Medical Center and Vail International Building results in undesirable traffic flow and turning movements creating traffic safety and capacity concerns. In keeping with Policy Objective 2.3.4, Improved Access and Circulation, of the Plan, opportunities for public transportation and vehicular circulation improvements should be explored in conjunction with any future redevelopment of the site. Possible opportunities for improvements may include, an improved mass transit stop, relocated/reduced /shared points of entry/exiting, restricted access points, acceleration/ deceleration lanes, greater sight distances, dedicated turning lanes and landscaped medians, and the evaluation and possible implementation of an intersection solution, such as a roundabout. 5.193 Preservation of Existing Accommodation Units The Evergreen Lodge presently contains 128 short term accommodation units. In addition, The Evergreen Lodge also contains a restaurant, lounge, spa, and meeting space facilities incidental to the operation of the Lodge. Given the importance and need for short term accommodations to the vitality and success of the community, any future redevelopment of the site shall ensure the preservation of short term accommodation units on the site. The preservation of short term accommodations should focus on maintaining the number of existing hotel beds and the amount of gross residential square footage on the site as well as requiring the preservation of 128 accommodation units. With this in mind, the quality of the existing accommodation unit room could be upgraded and the rooms could be reconfigured to create multi-room suites. In no instance, however, should the amount of gross residential floor area devoted to accommodation units be reduced. In fact, opportunities for increasing the number of accommodation units beyond the existing 128 units already on -site should be evaluated during the development review process. For example, the construction of "attached accommodation units ", as defined in the Zoning Regulations, could significantly increase the availability of short term rental opportunities within the building. 5.19.4 Impacts on Middle Creek Stream Tract The Middle Creek Stream Tract lies to the west of the Evergreen Lodge. The Tract is owned by the Town of Vail. The tract is heavily vegetated with several substantial deciduous trees and a significant lower layer of underbrush. Although the site borders the Middle Creek Stream Tract, there is no significant amount of quality vegetation on the site, and the parcel lies out of the 100 -year flood plain. As currently configured, opportunities exist to better recognize the benefits of creekside development. While the natural riparian corridor of Middle Creek needs to remain protected and preserved, the 5-46 physical and visual relationships and references between adjacent development and the stream tract should be strengthened. An opportunity exists to create a significant connection between the Evergreen Lodge and Middle Creek. Any use of Middle Creek for aesthetic or recreational purposes, however, should be subordinate to the preservation of the natural riparian corridor and its inherent natural character. The Middle Creek Stream Tract may provide an opportunity for the construction of a recreational path connecting the South Frontage Road to the existing pedestrian paths at the Dobson Ice Arena. 5.19.5 Relationship to the Vail Valley Medical Center and the proposed Vail Civic Center Perhaps the most critical functional relationship is the need to coordinate any future development on the Evergreen Lodge site with the Vail Valley Medical Center. For example, every effort should be taken to ensure that future development on the Evergreen Lodge site does not preclude the Vail Valley Medical Center from reconfiguring the design of the medical center to eliminate vehicular access off of West Meadow Drive and relocate the access to the South Frontage Road. Additional opportunities may include, shared service and delivery facilities, grading and site improvements, shared parking, pedestrian pathway connections, and land exchanges. 5.19.6 Service and Delivery Service and delivery functions for the hotel are accommodated on grade from the westerly entrance. Service and delivery for the Evergreen Lodge should occur underground or be hidden from public view. Service and delivery truck turning maneuvering should not negatively impact traffic flow on the South Frontage Road. With a realignment of the vehicular access points, attention should be given to the location of service and parking areas. An additional level of structured parking at the current Frontage Road level would help to minimize the apparent height of the existing or future structures, decrease the grade at existing access points, increase the amount of landscaping on the surface of the structure, and hide service functions below grade. 5.19.7 Setbacks from the South Frontage Road Special consideration should be given to the setback of buildings from the South Frontage Road. Pursuant to the Lionshead Mixed Use -1 zone district setback standards, a minimum 10 -foot (10') setback is allowed. Given the relationship of the development site to the South Frontage Road, the need for adequate area for vehicular traffic circulation, the importance of a landscape area to visually screen the massing of the building, and the existence of a 30 -foot wide utility easement along the southerly edge of the South Frontage Road, the minimum required front setback for the Evergreen Lodge development site shall be thirty feet (30'). This increased setback requirement shall supersede the 10 -foot setback requirement prescribed in Section 12- 71-1-10, Setbacks, Vail Town Code. 5.19.8 Architectural Improvements The architectural design guidelines (Chapter 8) discuss several transition tools that can be used to adapt an existing building to the new character and architectural quality desired for Lionshead. Given the high visibility of the buildings on this site and the extent to which they influence the quality of the experience of passers -by, all future 5 -47 development on the site should be closely scrutinized for compliance with the applicable architectural design guidelines. 5.19.9 Public Transit Stop A public transit stop is presently located east of the WestStar Bank Building, across the street from the Town Municipal offices. Through the future redevelopment of the Evergreen Lodge and the Vail Valley Medical Center, an opportunity exists to potentially relocate the transit stop to a more optimal location. 5.20 Eagle River Water and Sanitation District While this parcel would certainly be a viable development site, the costs to relocate uses at this site, particularly the treatment facilities, are very significant. For this reason it is assumed that the treatment facilities will remain in their existing location. A viable alternative to relocating the entire building would be to relocate the District's offices and construct "air- rights" development above and around the treatment facility. 5-48 a 0 i - - - - - - . D o _ `\` ,. `Pte \ `� v � a x L7 a > f a x U a > f a o � Deleted: <spxsp> Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" 5 -49 • Page 23:11] Deleted 03/13/201012:53 PM While the North Day Lot is a privately own parcel of land, consideration should be given by the owner and the Town to including transportation related uses on the ground floor. Ideally the uses to be considered for the site should include skier drop -off, local and regional transit, local and regional private shuttles, and charter bus drop -off and pick -up (see figure 5 -13). By relocating these functions from their existing locations to easily accessible locations, this would improve the quality of vehicular and pedestrian circulation in Lionshead and create a significant new pedestrian portal into the center of the Lionshead retail mall. Based upon the results of the traffic study (see appendix A), the dispersed transportation facilities may include: Skier drop -off: Nine spaces are recommended at a minimum, but more should be built if possible to accommodate other program elements. Town of Vail transit: Two bus spaces are recommended to accommodate the West Vail transit loop and the possibility for an eastbound in -town shuttle stop. Regional transit: One bus space is recommended Charter buses: Three to four bus spaces are recommended. Local and regional shuttles: Four shuttle van spaces are recommended at a minimum. It should be noted that the North Day Lot is a small parcel of land and that the location and shape of this parcel may not allow for all of the uses identified above without having significant implications to traffic circulation patterns and the owners ability to develop the site with a quality development as allowed under zoning for the property (the site is considered one development site for the purposes of zoning). There needs to be a balance between the development goals for the property and the impact of public uses on those goals. In order to meet the obligations of agreements regarding the Arrabelle project (core site), at a minimum skier drop off must occur on this site. As discussed below, the Lionshead parking structure and West Lionshead also provide opportunities for some of the transportation functions identified above. Given the impacts of a public transportation use and to maximize the opportunities for employee housing on the property, development standards such as site coverage, landscape area, north side setbacks, and building height may be adjusted to afford more flexibility to the property owner (see section 4.9.4.3) and approved by the Planning and Environmental Commission. In order to create more efficiency with the site development and to mitigate for the presence of a public transportation facility on private property, the Town may allow for encroachment of uses on the parcel of land owned by the Town on the north side of the north day lot. This encroachment may also help to mitigate impacts to adjacent properties to the south by maintaining adequate setbacks. There may be a need to move or enhance the pedestrian bridge abutment and access as part of the transportation facility. A critical consideration in the planning and design of this facility will be its impact on the adjacent Landmark Tower and Townhomes and the Westwind.depicted in figure 5 -13a, a linear building, screen, and/or landscape buffer is recommended at the southern edge of the site to screen the lower levels of the Landmark properties from the transportation facility. If necessary to provide adequate buffering a wall or fence in excess of 6' could be considered. This screen could house a bus shelter and waiting area, an information center, public restrooms, a small food and beverage operation, and an elevator core to the pedestrian mall level for ADA access needs. To the east, earthwork, landscaping, and/ or other screening measures should be considered to buffer the Westwind. The dispersed transportation facility may be covered by employee housing or other uses contemplated by the Lionshead Mixed Use Zoning -1 and any exemptions /deviations discussed herein. Specifically, the design of the transportation center should address all impacts: visual, security, sound, and smell that may affect adjacent properties. Both the Westwind and the Landmark should be closely involved in the transit center planning and design process. Since the adoption of the Lionshead Master Redevelopment Plan, plans were developed to locate a Transit Center at the North Day Lot. Integrating the number of uses mentioned above and addressing the neighborhood concerns regarding a transit center prompted the Town of Vail to evaluate alternative locations for a transit center. Alternative locations include: West Lionshead Lionshead Parking Structure North Day Lot In 2006, the Town of Vail initiated an update of the Vail Transportation Master Plan. In addition, the Town initiated a development competition for the Lionshead Parking Structure which would include a transit facility. It is recommended that the Transportation Master Plan update along with the conclusion of the Lionshead Parking Structure RFP process provide direction on the ultimate location for a Lionshead Transit Facility