Title
1717 SE 8th AVE 100% Master Plan (B)
Explanation
One of the largest undertakings of the Eastside Redevelopment area is the redevelopment of the 15-acre former Kennedy Homes site (1717 SE 8th Ave). Over the last year CRA staff along with JB Pro and EDSA Landscape Architects has completed a 100% Master Plan of the 1717 SE 8th Ave site. CRA staff is excited about the results of this Master Planning exercise, the design was heavily influenced by the public from the initial kick off meeting through the 30%, 60%, and now 100% Master Plan. CRA staff and the design team met with stakeholders and held community workshops to solicit their feedback through all phases of the design and now with the Board's approval staff is prepared to move forward with the next phases in order to execute the plan.
In October 2014 staff presented the 60% Preliminary Master Plan to the Board, the design highlighted the best features of the 30% Conceptual Master Plan concept 2 and concept 3. Now, the 100% plan brings it all together; it offers flexibility in product type, lot sizes, and green space. The plan emphasizes strategically placed green spaces and connectivity to the wetland on the east end of the property, offers a flexible mix of uses, and is adaptable to the density needs of the new developments as they may change with market fluctuations.
The 100% Master plan continues to define more specific elements of the Preliminary Master Plan. There is an emphasis placed on green spaces (pocket parks), wetland restoration, and connections through the development and to nature via walking trails. The design is strong and provides us with a road map for constructing a new high quality neighborhood that fits into the fabric of the surrounding area. As we transition into the implementation phase of the project and over the next few months, staff will focus on the following steps: develop scopes and contract proposals for zoning and land use, design plat, 1st phase construction documents, and environmental consulting services, develop project delivery strategies for the construction of individual homes, develop a marketing/branding package, creation of architectural and sustainable design standards for individual homes, and discuss ideas for how to work with banks or other financial institutions to assist in the financing of the site and homes.
Fiscal Note
Funding for this project has been budgeted in the ERAB 1717 SE 8th Avenue account as well as General Government funding sources.
Recommendation
CRA Executive Director to CRA Board: Approve the 100% 1717 SE 8th Avenue Master Plan.