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2018.12.04 Work Session Packet (2nd) 4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696 Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 • www.crystalmn.gov Posted: Nov. 30, 2018 City Council Second Work Session Agenda Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018 Immediately following the City Council meeting Conference Room A Pursuant to due call and notice given in the manner prescribed by Section 3.01 of the City Charter, the second work session of the Crystal City Council was held at ______ p.m. on Dec. 4, 2018 in Conference Room A, 4141 Douglas Dr. N., Crystal, Minnesota. I. Attendance Council Members Staff ____ Adams ____ Norris ____ Budziszewski ____ Therres ____ Dahl ____ Gilchrist ____ Deshler ____ Olson ____ Kolb ____ Revering ____ LaRoche ____ Sutter ____ Parsons ____ Serres II. Agenda The purpose of the work session is to discuss the following agenda items: 1. 2040 Comprehensive Plan update. 2. New business.* 3. Announcements.* * Denotes no supporting information included in the packet. III. Adjournment The work session adjourned at ______ p.m. Auxiliary aids are available upon request to individuals with disabilities by calling the City Clerk at (763) 531- 1145 at least 96 hours in advance. TTY users may call Minnesota Relay at 711 or 1-800-627-3529. REVIEW COMMENTS ON 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE 1 OF 4 _____________________________________________________ FROM: Dan Olson, City Planner ____________________________________________________________________ TO: Anne Norris (for December 4 Meeting) DATE: November 29, 2018 RE: Review comments on the proposed 2040 Comprehensive Plan A. BACKGROUND On June 5, 2018 the City Council directed staff to distribute the proposed 2040 Comprehensive Plan to affected jurisdictions for their review and comment. The plan was also sent to the Met Council for a preliminary review. State statute requires that the city provide a six month review period for the affected jurisdictions to submit their comments. The purpose of this staff report is for Council to review those comments before the Planning Commission holds a public hearing on the plan on December 10, 2018 and the Council considers authorizing submittal of the plan to the Metropolitan Council on December 18, 2018. Attachments: A. Metropolitan Council preliminary comments B. Proposed 2040 Comprehensive Plan B. COMMENTS FROM AFFECTED JURISDICTIONS AND METROPOLITAN COUNCIL The proposed plan was sent to the following affected jurisdictions for their comment:  Cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Golden Valley, Minneapolis (public water supply related), New Hope, and Robbinsdale  Hennepin County  School District 281  Bassett Creek and Shingle Creek watershed management organizations  Three Rivers Park District  Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)  Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) COUNCIL STAFF REPORT Review Comments on 2040 Comprehensive Plan REVIEW COMMENTS ON 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE 2 OF 4  Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) To date, two of these jurisdictions have submitted “no comment” letters, while 12 have not responded (no response is interpreted to mean “no comment”). Metropolitan Council Most of the preliminary comments from the Met Council (attachment A) were routine in nature. The following were substantive comments:  Describe the city’s goals in reducing excess inflow and infiltration (excess flow of clear water into the city’s sanitary sewer system)  Add a solar suitability analysis map  Add implementation language to relevant chapters  Attach appendices related to implementation of the plan C. DISCUSS HOUSING POLICIES RECOMMENDED BY THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL AND BLUE LINE COALITION Staff has received preliminary comments on the 2040 Comprehensive Plan relating to housing issues from two entities - the Metropolitan Council and the Blue Line Coalition (BLC), an advocacy group. Staff requests that the City Council discuss these proposed policies and direct staff on whether they should be included as housing policy goals in the proposed Comprehensive Plan. Met Council Comments The Met Council is recommending that the city include the following two housing policy goals in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. 1. Fair housing policy A fair housing policy would indicate the city’s support for existing federal legislation relating to protections for tenants or future home buyers against discrimination due to race, disability, national origin, and other charact eristics. Met Council indicated that the city will be required to adopt a fair housing policy in order to receive future grant funds through the Livable Communities Program (LCA). In the past the city received LCA funding for such projects as the Cavanagh apartments. The city does not have the authority to resolve fair housing complaints from Crystal tenants or potential home buyers and this would not change if the city adopted a policy. However the city’s policy, based on a Met Council model, would reference links on the city’s website to educate and refer residents who feel their fair housing rights have been violated. These weblinks would provide information about what protections are found in state and federal law, REVIEW COMMENTS ON 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE 3 OF 4 where to file a fair housing complaint, and where to get free or low-cost legal advice. The city’s role would be limited to providing the weblinks or otherwise connecting complainants with resources provided by other entities. Such a policy would merely formalize how we already respond to fair housing complaints. Options for City Council:  Adopt a policy. City Council could direct staff to prepare a proposed policy for Council review and adoption. If this option is selected, the proposed Comprehensive Plan would state that the city has a goal of adopting such a policy.  Delay policy adoption. City Council could wait to adopt a policy until such time when the city desires to apply for grants through the LCA program. If this option is selected, the Comprehensive Plan would not include any language about adopting a future policy. 2. Inclusionary housing policy Inclusionary housing, or inclusionary zoning, is when developers of new multifamily housing are required to include a certain percentage of long -term affordable units in their buildings. The BLC is also recommending this policy. The policy could apply to all new rental and ownership developments of 10+ units. Affordability protections would be placed on the property, typically for a minimum of 30 years and the units should be comparable in size and quality to the market-rate units. The Council has the option to adopt or not adopt an inclusionary housing policy. Blue Line Coalition Comments The Blue Line Coalition (BLC) is a coalition of community groups that advocates for affordable housing issues in the five cities along the proposed extension of the Blue Line LRT. The following are four policies that the BLC is recommending the City of Crystal include as housing policy goals in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The Council has the option to adopt or not adopt any of these policies. 1. Just – cause eviction Just-cause eviction prevents landlords from terminating leases without a demonstrated reason. A landlord’s desire to raise the rent on the unit is not considered a sufficient reason for ending a lease. Landlords can still end leases or evict tenants for violating their lease, failing to pay rent on time, or causing damage or disruption, but tenants have some protection that they can stay in the unit as long as they are good tenants and pay their rent on time. These protections apply to both long-term and month-to-month leases and remain in effect even if the property changes ownership. REVIEW COMMENTS ON 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE 4 OF 4 2. Tenant relocation assistance Relocation assistance policies require that tenants be compensated when their lease is terminated through no fault of their own (such as building sale or redevelopment) or when their rent is increased beyond ten percent annually. Some cities require the landlord to pay the full relocation fee, while other s supplement landlord payments with city - or developer-provided funds. 3. Notification of sale and right of first purchase This policy would require sellers of multifamily properties to inform the city and tenants 90 days before the property is going to be s old. Tenants, or another buyer who pledges to maintain long-term affordability, are then given the first opportunity to purchase the property at market rate before the seller can sell to another party. This policy does not limit the price of the property. The advance notification of a planned sale allows tenants to find a partner and financing to assist in the property's purchase and/or have more time to secure other housing. 4. Affordable Housing Trust Fund Affordable housing trust funds can be established at state or city levels to create a designated source of funding for affordable housing acquisition, rehabilitation, or construction. Funds are typically offered as deferred interest-free loans to developers. These funds serve as gap financing and could also attract additional capital. D. NEXT STEPS The following is the timeline for completing the comprehensive plan update : December 10, 2018: Planning Commission holds public hearing for additional public input December 18, 2018: City Council meeting to authorize submittal of the final plan to the Metropolitan Council by December 31 After the Metropolitan Council completes their review in 2019, a City Council meeting will be held to officially adopt the plan. E. REQUESTED ACTION Council review the comments on the plan from affected jurisdictions and also provide direction on whether any of the housing policies should be included as housing policy goals in the plan. Attachment A CITY COUNCIL DRAFT DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN POLICY AND LAND USE GUIDE Attachment B CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE/S Chapter A – Process Overview 2 Chapter B – Community Designation 3 – 10 Chapter C – Demographic Baseline 11 – 12 Chapter D – Metropolitan Council Forecasts 13 Chapter E – Land Use 14 – 2224 Chapter F – Housing 23 25 – 2429 Chapter G – Roadway Jurisdiction 25 30 – 2632 Chapter H – Roadway Functional Classifications 27 33 – 3238 Chapter I – Non-Motorized Transportation 33 39 – 3541 Chapter J – Public Transit 36 42 – 3845 Chapter K – Aviation 39 46 – 4452 Chapter L – Parks and Open Space 45 53 –51 59 Chapter M – Water Resources 52 60 – 5463 Appendices: A. Bass Lake Road Station Area Plan B. Commercial Market Analysis A.C. Station Area Development Assessment B.D. Unified Development Code and Official Zoning Map C.E. Housing Gap Analysis F. Park and Recreation System Master Plan D.G. Long Term Plan E.H. Proposed Local Surface Water Management Plan I. Proposed Water Supply Plan CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 2 CHAPTER A: PROCESS OVERVIEW As a municipality within the seven-county metropolitan planning area, Crystal is required to submit an updated Comprehensive Plan to the Metropolitan Council in 2018. The Comprehensive Plan is the city’s policy document and guide for land use and related decision-making. For example, the Comprehensive Plan is used by the Planning Commission and City Council when it makes decisions related to zoning, subdivision (platting), public facilities and redevelopment. While the plan does not include detailed development concept plans for particular sites or designs for public facilities improvements, it does set the stage and provide guidance for such plans and designs to be developed later. The Planning Commission was the body tasked with reviewing the proposed updates to the Plan. The Commission met regularly between November 2017 and April 2018 to discuss the plan and held a meeting on April 9, 2018 to receive public input. Public input was also solicited on the city’s newsletter, website and social media. On June 5, 2018, the city council approved the plan for submittal to other governmental jurisdictions and agencies for a six month review and comment period, as required by Metropolitan Council. The plan was also sent to the Metropolitan Council for a preliminary review. The following affected jurisdictions received the proposed Crystal 2040 Comprehensive Plan on June 6, 2018, with their responses noted below:  City of Brooklyn Center  City of Brooklyn Park  City of Golden Valley – Has no comments  City of Minneapolis  City of New Hope  City of Robbinsdale  Hennepin County  School District 281  Minnesota Department of Transportation – Has no comments  Minnesota Department of Natural Resources  Metropolitan Airports Commission  Three Rivers Park District  Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission  Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission After comments were received from the Metropolitan Council and adjacent jurisdictions, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on December 10, 2018 on the proposed 2040 plan. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 3 CHAPTER B: COMMUNITY DESIGNATION In the “Thrive MSP 2040” document, the Metropolitan Council has established several different community designations for different parts of the region. Crystal is among the areas classified as Urban (see Figure B-1), which is described as those communities: “…developed primarily during the economic prosperity between the end of World War II and the economic recession of 1973-1975. These cities, adjacent to the Urban Center communities, experienced rapid development to house the growing families of the baby boom era. With considerable growth and development along highways, the Urban communities exhibit the transition toward the development stage dominated by the influence of the automobile.” FIGURE B-1 METROPOLITAN COUNCIL COMMUNITY DESIGNATION CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 4 LAND USE STRATEGIES AND POLICIES In the “Thrive MSP 2040” document, Metropolitan Council has established general policy goals for all communities in the seven-county area and specific policy goals for Urban communities. The following are those policy goals, with comments from the city detailing how the policy is being implemented, or is planned for implementation: Policy 1: Align land use, development patterns and infrastructure to make the best use of public and private investment. STRATEGIES FOR ALL COMMUNITIES • Plan for development to support forecasted growth at appropriate densities as articulated in the land use policies for the Urban designation. Comment: The 2040 land use map and table will support forecasted growth through a variety of strategies, including allowing accessory dwelling units, reducing residential lot sizes and widths, promoting residential infill, and identifying redevelopment areas in the city. • Plan and develop interconnected and well-connected local streets, adequate stormwater infrastructure, adequate water supply, and properly managed subsurface sewage treatment systems to support local growth forecasts. Comment: As development is proposed, the city reviews these site plan elements to ensure that streets and utilities are adequately providing these necessary services. • Develop plans to improve conditions for and encourage walking and bicycling where appropriate. Comment: The non-motorized transportation chapter of the Plan provides strategies for encouraging walking and biking on city streets. • Maintain, replace, or expand local facilities and infrastructure to meet growth and development needs. Comment: As development is proposed, the city reviews these site plan elements to ensure that infrastructure adequately provides these necessary services. • Adopt and implement the local comprehensive plan following Metropolitan Council review. Comment: The city intends to adopt a Comprehensive Plan as required by Minnesota statute 473.175. STRATEGIES FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES • Plan for forecasted population and household growth at average densities of at least 10 units per acre for new development and redevelopment. Target opportunities for more intensive development near regional transit investments at densities and in a manner articulated in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan. Comment: The 2040 land use map and table will support forecasted growth through a variety of strategies, including allowing accessory dwelling units, reducing residential lot sizes and widths, promoting residential infill, and identifying redevelopment areas in the city. • Identify areas for redevelopment, particularly areas that are well-served by transportation options and nearby amenities and that contribute to better proximity between jobs and housing. Comment: The 2040 land use map shows potential redevelopment areas in proximity to the city’s main commercial areas at West Broadway and Bass Lake Road and Douglas Drive and 42nd Avenue, as well as proximity to the planned expansion of the Blue Line light rail transit (LRT). • Lead detailed land use planning efforts around regional transit stations and other regional investments. Comment: The past several years the city has worked with Metro Transit and Hennepin County to implement the proposed extension of the Blue Line LRT system. The city is working to implement a transit-oriented development (TOD) overlay zoning regulation within the proposed station area. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 5 • Plan for and program local infrastructure needs (for example, roads, sidewalks, sewer, water, and surface water), including those needed for future growth and to implement the local comprehensive plan. Comment: As development is proposed, the city reviews these site plan elements to ensure that infrastructure adequately provides these necessary services. • Recognize opportunities for urban agriculture and small-scale food production. Comment: The city currently allows raising of chickens, beekeeping, and community gardens. Policy 2: Conserve, restore, and protect the region’s natural resources to ensure availability, support public health and maintain a high quality of life. STRATEGIES FOR ALL COMMUNITIES • Include goals, priorities and natural resource conservation strategies in the local comprehensive plan to protect and enhance natural resources identified in regional and local natural resource inventories. Comment: The Park and Recreation System Master Plan, referenced in Chapter L of the Comprehensive Plan, has identified some parks as “natural area/passive park.” • Conserve, protect and interconnect open space to enhance livability, recreational opportunities and habitats. Comment: The Park and Recreation System Master Plan has identified some parks as “natural area/passive park.” • Adopt and implement ordinances for the conservation and restoration of natural resources within the community. Comment: The Park and Recreation System Master Plan has identified some parks as “natural area/passive park.” • Work with regional partners and regional park implementing agencies to identify, plan for, and acquire natural areas and resources prime for preservation and protection. Comment: The City works with Three Rivers Park District to construct regional trails and also on restoration efforts at MAC Park, which is on land owned by the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC). STRATEGIES FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES • Integrate natural resource conservation and restoration strategies into the local comprehensive plan. Comment: The Park and Recreation System Master Plan has identified some parks as “natural area/passive park”, which are areas set aside for preservation of natural resources and open space. • Identify lands for reclamation, including contaminated land, for redevelopment and the restoration of natural features and functions. Comment: The land use chapter of the Comprehensive Plan has identified areas for future redevelopment. On some of these sites it may be necessary to address contamination issues and improve the natural features of the site. • Develop programs that encourage the implementation of natural resource conservation and restoration. Comment: The Park and Recreation System Master Plan has identified some parks as “natural area/passive park”, which are areas set aside for preservation of natural resources and open space. Policy 3: Conserve, restore, and protect the quality and quantity of the region’s water resources to ensure ongoing availability, support public health, and maintain a high quality of life. STRATEGIES FOR ALL COMMUNITIES • Collaborate and convene with state, regional and local partners to protect, maintain, and enhance CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 6 natural resources protection and the protection of the quality and quantity of the region’s water resources and water supply. Comment: The Joint Water Commission (JWC) owns and operates the potable water supply for the cities of Crystal, New Hope and Golden Valley. The JWC has a water supply plan, which is included in this Comprehensive Plan by reference. The city is also a member of both the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission and the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission. • Prepare and implement local water supply plans and source water (wellhead) protection ordinances, consistent with Minnesota Rules 4720, in all communities with municipal water supply. Comment: The city is expecting to adopt these ordinances in 2018. • Plan land use patterns that facilitate groundwater recharge and reuse, and reduce per capita water use to protect the region’s water supply. Comment: A significant water infiltration project is planned to be constructed in Becker Park in Crystal in 2019. • Plan for sustainable water supply options and groundwater recharge areas to promote development in accordance with natural resources protection and efficient use of land. Comment: The city is fully developed, but is working on ordinances to allow for land use intensification in appropriate areas. The city’s water source is surface water that is purchased from the city of Minneapolis and only has wells for emergency backup use. • Prepare and implement local surface water plans as required by Minnesota Rules Chapter 8410, the Metropolitan Land Planning Act, and the 2040 Water Resources Policy Plan. Comment: The city has a surface water management plan which is currently being updated. • Reduce the excess flow of clear water into the local wastewater collection system (inflow and infiltration). Participate in inflow/infiltration grant programs as available. Comment: The city has been actively reducing inflow and infiltration (I & I) in a number of ways. In 2018 the city will be completing completed replacement of all sanitary sewer manhole lids with solid covers. Sanitary sewer lining and replacement have also occurred over the last few years. • Adopt and enforce ordinances related to stormwater management and erosion control. Comment: The city has recently updated the entire city code, which included updates to the storm water management and erosion control provisions. • Adopt and implement best management practices for abating, preventing, and reducing point and nonpoint source pollution. Comment: These practices were included in the recent updating of the city code related to storm water management and illicit discharge. • Integrate drinking water source protection into local land use decisions, particularly in Drinking Water Supply Management Areas. Comment: The city’s potable water is purchased from the city of Minneapolis, which draws water from the Mississippi River. The only Drinking Water Supply Management Area (DWSMA) that includes Crystal is a small area located in the northeast corner of Brooklyn Center. • Develop programs that encourage stormwater management, treatment, and infiltration. Comment: The city has a stormwater management ordinance in its unified development code, and coordinates with the city’s watershed commissions in the review of proposed development. STRATEGIES FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES • Implement best management practices to control and treat stormwater as redevelopment opportunities arise. Comment: The city has a stormwater management ordinance in its unified CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 7 development code and coordinates with the city’s watershed commissions in the review of proposed development. • Explore alternative water supply sources to ensure alternative water resources beyond 2040. Comment: The primary source of potable water is from the Mississippi River purchased from the city of Minneapolis. The Joint Water Commission has three wells that are available for emergency use only. Policy 4: Promote housing options to give people in all life stages and of all economic means viable choices for safe, stable and affordable homes. STRATEGIES FOR ALL COMMUNITIES • Prepare a local comprehensive plan that addresses the affordable housing plan requirements of the Metropolitan Land Planning Act, including guiding sufficient land to support a community’s share of the regional affordable housing need and an implementation section that identifies the programs, fiscal devices, and official controls to be employed to address a community’s share of the regional need for affordable housing. Comment: These housing issues are addressed in the housing and land use chapters of the Comprehensive Plan. • Review local ordinances, policies and partnerships to ensure they encourage and facilitate the opportunity for the development or preservation of affordable and lifecycle housing. Comment: Much of Crystal housing is considered affordable, but the city has recently implemented (or is implementing) ordinances to encourage affordable housing such as reducing residential lot areas and widths and allowing accessory dwelling units. • Identify and analyze local markets, location, condition, and availability of affordable units, both publicly subsidized and naturally occurring, to inform the housing element of the local comprehensive plan. Comment: The city has completed a housing gap analysis to inform future housing needs. This analysis is summarized in the housing chapter of the Plan. • Participate in Livable Communities Act programs by negotiating affordable and lifecycle housing goals that support regional and local housing needs, and prepare a Housing Action Plan to address those goals and become eligible to access grant funding to address local development and redevelopment objectives. Comment: As noted in the housing chapter of the Plan, the city participates in the Livable Communities program. • Collaborate with partners, especially counties, to rehabilitate and preserve existing housing. Comment: As noted in the housing chapter of the Plan, the city currently provides these housing programs. STRATEGIES FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES Comment: The city’s housing stock is considered very affordable, such so that the Metropolitan Council is only requiring has identified that 25 affordable units are to be built in Crystal between 2021 and 2030 to assist in meeting the region’s affordable housing needs. Nevertheless, the city has identified redevelopment areas in the land use chapter of the Plan that will address higher density housing that may be defined as affordable. The city has implemented (or is implementing) ordinances to encourage affordable housing such as reducing residential lot areas and widths and allowing accessory dwelling units. • Designate land in the comprehensive plan to support household growth forecasts and address the community’s share of the region’s affordable housing need through redevelopment at a range of CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 8 densities. Comment: The land use chapter of the Plan identifies redevelopment areas that will support household growth forecasts. • Plan for a mix of housing affordability in station areas along transitways. Comment: The city has identified a transit-oriented redevelopment areas in the land use chapter of the Plan where affordable housing may occur. • Plan for affordable housing that meets the needs of multigenerational households. Comment: Redevelopment areas have been identified in the land use chapter of the Plan where affordable housing could be constructed. The city has implemented (or is implementing) ordinances to encourage affordable housing such as reducing residential lot areas and widths and allowing accessory dwelling units. • Use state, regional, and federal sources of funding, and/or financing and development tools allowed by state law to facilitate the development of new lifecycle and affordable housing. Comment: The city has demonstrated its willingness to partner with other organizations to provide funding to build new affordable housing. Most recently in 2015, this funding assisted in the construction of a 130-unit affordable senior apartment building in Crystal. Policy 5: Sustain and improve a multi-modal transportation system to support regional growth, maintain regional economic competitiveness, and provide choices and reliability for the system’s users. STRATEGIES FOR ALL COMMUNITIES • Consider travel modes other than the car when reviewing land development plans to better connect and integrate choices throughout all stages of planning. Comment: When reviewing proposed development plans, the city looks for opportunities to make pedestrian and bicycle connections. • Plan for and construct an interconnected system of local streets, pedestrian, and bicycle facilities that is integrated with the regional system to minimize short trips on the regional highway system. Comment: The city is fully developed but in reviewing development proposals, looks for opportunities to connect new streets to the existing network and to pedestrian and bicycle facilities. • Adopt access management standards that support state and county highway access and mobility needs. Comment: The city works cooperatively to adhere to County and State access standards and mobility needs. • Plan for compatible land uses and air space adjacent to the system of regional airports. Comment: The city has zoning regulations in place that provide for future compatible development adjacent to the Crystal Airport. • Participate in regional transportation planning activities to ensure that the metropolitan planning process and regional transportation systems reflects local needs. Comment: The past several years, Crystal has worked with Metro Transit and Hennepin County to implement the proposed extension of the Blue Line LRT. • Work with partners in communities, counties, and the region at large to coordinate transportation, pedestrian, bicycle, and trail connections within and between jurisdictional boundaries. Comment: Crystal has worked cooperatively with Three Rivers Park District and Hennepin County for the extension of regional trails and to plan future pedestrian and bicycle facilities. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 9 STRATEGIES FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES • Develop comprehensive plans that focus on growth in and around regional transit stations and near high-frequency transit services, commensurate with planned levels of transit service and the station typologies (for example, land use mix, density levels) identified in the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan. Comment: In the land use chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, the city has identified a transit-oriented redevelopment area around the proposed Bass Lake Road LRT station. The city is proposing to adopt new zoning regulations that will focus redevelopment opportunities in this area. • Develop local policies, plans, and practices that improve pedestrian and bicycle circulation, including access to regional transit services, regional trails, and regional bicycle corridors. Comment: The city works cooperatively with Three Rivers Park District and Hennepin County to improve and plan for regional pedestrian and bicycle connections, such as the extension of the Bassett Creek Regional Trail. • Consider implementation of travel demand management (TDM) policies and ordinances that encourage use of travel options and decrease reliance on single-occupancy vehicle travel. Comment: Although Crystal does not have what would be considered a larger employer that brings many workers into the city at specific times, the city works to create an environment to reduce congestion at peak travel times. These strategies include providing opportunities to bike or walk to work, and improving pedestrian crossing through pavement markings. • Engage private sector stakeholders who depend on or are affected by the local transportation system to address local business needs such as routing, delivery, and potential land use conflicts. Comment: The city has partnered with the traffic routing app, Waze, and is participating in the Connected Citizens Program. This program brings citizens and cities together to provide current road and traffic conditions. The vast majority of commercial areas in Crystal are along County highways of higher functional classification. • Adopt development standards that improve the user experience, circulation, and access for bicyclists and pedestrians. Comment: As a fully developed city, Crystal has fewer opportunities to create new bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. However the city is actively working with Hennepin County and Metro Transit to plan for improved pedestrian and bicycle connections around the proposed Bass Lake Road LRT station. • Adopt Complete Streets policies that improve safety and mobility for all road users. Comment: The city is currently in the process of developing a number of policies to improve traffic safety and mobility, which may include a Complete Streets policy. Policy 6: Foster connected land use options to provide businesses and industries with access to materials, markets, and talent. • Strategies for all communities. Comment: The Plan identifies four redevelopment areas in the land use chapter where redevelopment will lead to an intensification of land use, whether commercial or residential redevelopment. The city is has completing completed a market analysis (Appendices B and C) to inform the proposed transit-oriented development zoning regulations. The market analysis included input from potential developers of the redevelopment areas. • Plan for the further development and intensification of existing and emerging job concentrations. Comment: In the land use chapter of the Plan, the city has identified redevelopment areas where land use intensification could occur. Many of these areas are currently zoned for commercial uses, and redevelopment could assist in business expansion. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 10 • Consider completing a community-based market analysis to better understand real estate needs for commercial and industrial land. Comment: As part of planning for the proposed extension of the Blue Line of the LRT, the city is has completing completed a market analysis to inform the redevelopment of the area around the proposed Bass Lake Road LRT station. • Consider addressing economic competitiveness in the local comprehensive plan. Comment: The market analysis note above addresses Crystal’s commercial strengths in attracting specific businesses. • Preserve sites for highway and rail-dependent manufacturing and freight transportation. Comment: Crystal is fully developed so this is not applicable. • Engage with businesses and other employers to ensure their input is provided to the local comprehensive plan. Comment: The city has engaged the businesses community in discussions relating to the proposed transit-oriented development overlay area noted in the land use chapter of the Plan. As the city continues to develop plans for these redevelopment areas, business stakeholders will continue to be solicited for their input on the plans. Policy 7: Promote sensitive land use and development patterns to achieve Minnesota’s adopted greenhouse gas emissions goal at the regional scale, and to develop local resiliency to the impacts of climate change. • Comment: The city is amending its land use ordinances to allow market-driven land use intensification within the redevelopment areas identified in the land use chapter of the plan and by allowing for higher residential densities generally. This intensification reduces dependence on the automobile. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 11 CHAPTER C: DEMOGRAPHIC BASELINE Crystal is a predominantly single family detached residential community. It is largely a product of the period immediately following World War II. As recently as 1945 the community was semi-rural with some scattered subdivisions, but by 1970 the transition to suburban development was essentially complete. After 1970 new housing occurred by infill of remaining vacant parcels or redevelopment of existing land uses (see Figure C-1). FIGURE C-1 CRYSTAL DEVELOPMENT HISTORY (HOUSING IN RED WAS BUILT DURING THE PERIOD) Crystal generally has some of the lowest cost suburban housing in the Twin Cities regional market. This is generally true for all housing types (single family, townhouse, apartments), for units of comparable size/features, and for units with similar occupancy status (ownership vs. rental) when compared to most other suburbs in the metropolitan region. Census 2010 showed Crystal having 9,634 housing units:  7,280 (75.6%) were single family detached homes.  263 (2.7%) were single family attached (such as townhouses).  236 (2.4%) were in buildings with 2-4 living units.  1,855 (19.2%) were in buildings with more than 5 living units. From April 1, 2010 through Dec. 31, 2017, the city has seen a net gain of 193 housing units:  63 single family detached homes.  130 in one apartment building (The Cavanagh). Therefore as of January 1, 2018, Crystal is estimated to have 9,823 housing units:  7,343 (74.7%) were single family detached (houses).  263 (2.7%) were single family attached (townhouses).  232 (2.4%) were in buildings with 2-4 units.  1,985 (20%) were in buildings with more than 5 units. Growth during the period 2010-2017 was due to the construction of single-family homes, including in- fill development, and the construction of a 130-unit apartment building. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 12 In terms of housing unit occupancy, Census 2010 indicated that Crystal had a 95.3% occupancy rate, with 9,183 occupied housing units. Of these, 6,847 (74.5%) were owner occupied and 2,336 (25.4%) were renter occupied. The state average was 73% owner/27% renter; the U.S. average was 65% owner/35% renter. In terms of population, Crystal’s peak census year was 1970. The decrease in the average number of persons per household (“Persons/HH” below) is the reason for the city’s population decline since 1970. This has been occurring in most fully developed communities. In Crystal’s case, these trends appear to be leveling out: Household size in the 2010 census was 2.39 persons per household – the same number as in the 2000 census. YEAR HOUSEHOLDS PERSONS/HH POPULATION 1950 1,591 3.59 5,713 1950 1,591 3.59 5,713 1960 5,922 4.10 24,280 1970 8,313 3.72 30,925 1980 8,994 2.84 25,543 1990 9,292 2.56 23,788 2000 9,389 2.39 22,848698 2010 9,183 2.39 22,151 TABLE C-1 CENSUS DATA SUMMARY CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 13 CHAPTER D: METROPOLITAN COUNCIL FORECASTS In 2017 Metropolitan Council forecast the change in population, households and employment for each planning jurisdiction in the region through 2040. Their forecasts for the region, each county, and each municipality in Hennepin County are summarized below (see Figure D-1). FIGURE D-1 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORKTHRIVE MSP 2040 FORECASTS CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 14 CHAPTER E: LAND USE The Land Use chapter’s main component is the 2040 planned land use map, which is the primary basis for the city’s zoning map. In this chapter actual land use in 2018 is contrasted with the 2040 planned land use map. LAND USE CATEGORIES • The following land use categories are shown on Tables E-1 and E-3 and Figures E-1 and E-4, which are the 2018 existing and 2040 planned land uses in Crystal. On Table E-1, the comparison of the 2010 land uses of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan is not an exact comparison to the 2018 existing land uses. This is due to redefining the institutional category for the 2040 plan, the classification of undeveloped parcels into an appropriate future land use, and the reclassification of the MAC nature area from the airport category to the park category. • Low Density Residential. Not less than 1 unit per acre nor more than 6 units per acre. (For new development, this plan assumes an average density of 5 units per acre). This category typically includes single and two-family dwellings. • Medium Density Residential. Not less than 6 units per acre nor more than 16 units per acre. (For new development, this plan assumes an average density of 12 units per acre). This category typically includes single and two-family dwellings, but also multi-family dwellings. • High Density Residential. Not less than 16 units per acre nor more than 40 units per acre. (For new development, this plan assumes an average density of 30 units per acre). This category typically includes multi-family dwellings. • Commercial. Retail, offices, restaurants, and some automobile-oriented businesses (on certain corridors designated in the city’s unified development code). • Industrial. Manufacturing, storage, and some automobile-oriented businesses (on certain corridors designated in the city’s unified development code). • Park. Includes both active and passive outdoor recreation. If these properties are redeveloped for other uses, then the properties would be planned for low residential development. • Institutional. This category includes churches, schools, cemeteries, and publicly-owned properties. If these properties are redeveloped for other uses, then the properties would be planned for low residential development. • Rail Corridor. Property owned by Canadian Pacific or Burlington Northern Santa Fe for their respective railroad tracks and related facilities. • Crystal Airport. Property owned by Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) for the operation of the Crystal Airport. In the event that any part of the airport is developed for non-aeronautical uses, a Comprehensive Plan Amendment would be required. • Roadway Right-of-Way. This category includes not only right-of-way dedicated by plat or easement, but also parcels used for right-of-way purposes. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 15 Within Urban Service Area Allowed Density Range Housing Units/Acre Land Area Existing (in acres and percentage of land use) Land Area Existing (in acres and percentage of land use) Minimum Maximum 2010 2018 Low Density Residential 1 6 1,767.64 (47.8%) 1786.93 (48.3%) Medium Density Residential 6 16 27.87 (.75%) 26.39 (.71%) High Density Residential 16 40 91.27 (2.5%) 96.51 (2.6%) Commercial 149.15 (4%) 149.65 (4.1%) Industrial 91.15 (2.5%) 98.48 (2.7%) Park 195.56 (5.3%) 246.50 (6.7%) Institutional/Undeveloped 238.19 (6.4%) N/A Institutional N/A 191.86 (5.2%) Rail Corridor 47.48 (1.3%) 46.89 (1.3%) Crystal Airport 334.46 (9.1%) 286.66 (7.8%) Roadway Right of Way 753.78 (20.4%) 767.13 (20.8%) TOTAL (all sewered; there are no unsewered areas in Crystal) 3,696.55 3,697 FIGURE TABLE E-1 2018 EXISTING LAND USE CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 16 FIGURE E-21 2018 EXISTING LAND USE MAP CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 17 RESOURCE PROTECTION ITEMS RELATED TO LAND USE Historic Sites. There are no properties in Crystal listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hennepin County has identified 64 homes in Crystal built prior to 1919. All of these houses are currently in private ownership. The homeowners will necessarily make the decisions regarding preservation of these buildings. The city requires that buildings be maintained and provides incentives for home improvements. Solar Access Environmental Sustainability. The city has adopted the following policies to encourage environmental sustainability: 1. The city’s unified development code contains an explicit declaration allowing variances which are necessary for solar energy systems to have access to direct sunlight. 2. In 2018 the city also adopted a new zoning regulation that made it easier for property owners to install solar energy systems. 3. In 2014, the city began implementation of best practices as established by the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program. 4. The city participates in Xcel Energy’s Community Energy Reports program. The city does have solar resources, shown in Table E-2, available for alternative energy production, as calculated by the Metropolitan Council in 2017 based on exposure to sunlight. The gross solar generation potential and the gross solar rooftop generation potential are estimates of how much electricity could be generated using existing tehnology and assumptions on the efficiency of conversion. The values in the table are not intended to demonstrate the amount of solar likely to develop within Crystal. Instead the calculations estimate the potential resource before removing areas unsuitable for solar development or factors related to solar energy efficiency. Figure E-2, also from the Metropolitan Council, shows gross solar potential for Crystal. TABLE E-2 POTENTIAL SOLAR RESOURCES IN CRYSTAL CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 18 FIGURE E-2: CRYSTAL’S GROSS SOLAR POTENTIAL Aggregate Deposits. Information Circular #46 from the Minnesota Geological Survey indicates that there are no natural aggregate deposits in Crystal. REDEVELOPMENT This section identifies areas of the city, shown on the 2040 planned land map, where there is a CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 19 significant potential for redevelopment to occur. The city believes that there is strong potential for redevelopment to occur in any number of these areas due to natural market forces, the city’s desire to replace blighted or functionally obsolete land uses, or a combination of both. GENERAL REDEVELOPMENT GOALS There are areas of the city where redevelopment is likely to be considered at some point in the future. The identification of these areas does not mean that it is definite that redevelopment would occur within the time frame of this plan. Depending on the specific site characteristics and market forces at the time of redevelopment, the physical extent of redevelopment activities may be greater or less than the area shown in this plan. Key parcels have been identified that appear to be most likely to trigger redevelopment in each area, but they are not absolutely essential for redevelopment to occur in most of these areas. Areas not indicated as potential redevelopment areas in this plan are not precluded from being redeveloped. Many of the descriptions of the potential redevelopment areas indicate that the likely new use would be medium or high density residential. This is a function of the cost of redevelopment in that the new use must be of higher density for the project to be financially feasible. Each project would have to be examined on its own merits and with due consideration to the characteristics of the surrounding area and community input. Redevelopment projects may be completely privately financed, or receive some assistance from the city and its Economic Development Authority (EDA). Such assistance may take the form of tax increment financing, tax abatement, housing tax credits, grants from other units of government, or other funding sources. Each request for financial assistance will be evaluated in accordance with the policies and procedures governing each respective funding source. Due to a combination of market realities, financial constraints, limited eminent domain powers and community concerns about density, traffic, change in general and other issues, it would be unrealistic to expect that all of the areas described in this section will be redeveloped within the time frame of this plan. Instead, this plan should be viewed as a menu from which citizens, developers, the Planning Commission, the EDA and the City Council may compare and contrast various redevelopment opportunities within the city, and select the best project sites for redevelopment. Redevelopment projects may trigger, or be triggered by, adjacent public improvements such as roadway reconstruction, water and sewer upgrades, or streetscaping. In cases where near-term public improvements are being considered in a potential redevelopment area, but no redevelopment project is imminent, due consideration will be given to the impact of said improvements on the future redevelopment potential of the area. DESCRIPTIONS OF SPECIFIC POTENTIAL REDEVELOPMENT AREAS The following is a description of four potential redevelopment areas in Crystal as shown on the 2040 planned land use map (see Figure E-3). Areas A and C. These existing commercial areas may see redevelopment within the timeframe of this plan as a result of the planned extension of the Blue Line of the region’s light rail line (LRT) transit system. As discussed in more detail in chapter J of this plan, Metro Transit is planning a LRT station at the intersection of Bass Lake Road and Highway 81 (Bottineau Boulevard) in Crystal. In addition, a LRT station is planned at 42nd Avenue North and Bottineau Boulevard in downtown Robbinsdale, about one mile from area C. Both redevelopment areas are also accessed by Metro Transit bus routes. As of CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 20 the writing of this plan, the city is considering new development zoning regulations for areas A and C its proposed redevelopment areas. These regulations could include allowing a mix of commercial and residential uses, reduced parking ratios, and building placement guidelines. Although a small portion, approximately 31 acres, of the 63rd Avenue station area lies within Crystal a majority of the station area lies within Brooklyn Park. The City of Crystal did not participate in the creation of the 63rd Avenue station area plan. The 63rd station area within Crystal consists of a 13 acre city-owned community park and single-family homes, neither of which provides favorable redevelopment opportunities. As such, the portion of the 63rd station area within Crystal is not designated as a redevelopment area. A station area plan (Appendix A) for the Bass Lake Road LRT station was completed in 2016 to envision new land uses within ½ mile of the proposed station. This plan designated potential “opportunity sites” in what is proposed as area A that have redevelopment potential under the right set of circumstances. Decisions to participate in redevelopment would be made by individual property owners based on market opportunity. However since 2016 the city has undertaken projects to improve the public realm that were first described in the station area plan. These projects include a streetscape plan along Bass Lake Road between Highway 81 (Bottineau Boulevard) and West Broadway Avenue, and a redevelopment of Becker Park to transition the park from a sports facility use to a community gathering area with improved pedestrian connections to both the LRT station and the surrounding commercial area. It is hoped that improving the public realm in these ways will spur redevelopment in the station area. In 2018 a market analysis was completed for four of the five cities along the proposed 13-mile LRT corridor (Appendices B and C). A station area development assessment was completed that provided input from several developers on how LRT service may impact the various station areas. Developers stated that the strength of the Bass Lake Road station area is its abundance of retail, anchored by the recently renovated Crystal Shopping Center. The demographic make up and condition of some properties were seen as challenges. This plan proposes to offset these challenges by making improvements to the public realm as described above. Area B. This site is the Former Canadian Pacific Railway (CPRR) property west of Douglas Drive and north of the CPRR tracks and contains existing commercial uses adjacent to a single-family residential neighborhood. The zoning of the site no longer allows new commercial uses, but the existing uses may continue in their present form. The following are considerations for re-use, expansion or redevelopment of this area. 1. Any expansion of existing uses or redevelopment of the property shall be compatible with adjacent residential land uses, including but not limited to issues of traffic, parking, noise, hours of operation, buffering, screening, impervious coverage, building size, form and materials. Uses that are considered incompatible with the adjacent area are those that are customer-intensive commercial uses such as retail or medical office, and auto-related businesses, such as vehicle wash, sales or repair. 2. The site development standards in the city’s unified development code shall be applicable to any re-use, expansion or redevelopment of the site. However, no building’s height shall exceed any of the following: 3 stories, 40 feet, or the building’s setback from the east, west or north boundaries of the property. 3. Vehicular access shall be primarily from Douglas Drive and access from Idaho Avenue shall be minimized. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 21 Area D. This area mostly contains a mix of smaller commercial uses and vacant parcels, adjacent to low density residential. There is some potential for redevelopment along the east side of Douglas Drive, but it would be challenging due to topographic conditions and a need to acquire some houses to assemble an optimally sized site. Redevelopment of the west side, along the unimproved Edgewood Avenue north of 34th Avenue, is mainly limited by fragmented property ownership but otherwise appears to be a good candidate for infill development. The city is considering new development zoning regulations for area D. These regulations could include allowing a mix of commercial and residential uses, reduced parking ratios, and building placement guidelines. LAND USE CHANGES TO ACCOMMODATE DEVELOPMENT BY 2040 It is expected that redevelopment of some existing land uses will occur in addition to the land use changes anticipated on the 2040 map (see Figure E-3). Redevelopment will be driven by market forces, owners’ willingness to sell, and input from the community on specific land use proposals. In 2010, the city had 9,183 households and is projected to grow to 9,700 households by 2040. This represents a growth of 517 households during this 30 year period. Table E-3 provides a scenario under which housing units could be constructed to meet the needs of this projected population increase. Some of the projected population growth can be accommodated by accessory dwelling units. In 2018 the city revised its zoning code regulations to allow more property owners to construct this type of residential living space. LAND USE IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS The official controls for Crystal is its Unified Development Code (UDC), which are the zoning and subdivision regulations for the city. In 2018 the City Council approved a complete update to the UDC, which is found in Appendix D, along with the city’s Official Zoning Map. The 2018 update included regulations to allow more dwelling units in the city, such as new regulations for accessory dwelling units and reduced lot size requirements. In 2019 the City Council is expected to consider additional UDC amendments to create new regulations governing the redevelopment areas described in this chapter. These proposed changes would allow a mix of residential and commercial uses, reduced parking ratios, alternative building placement, and higher densities. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 22 FIGURE E-3 2040 PLANNED LAND USE MAP CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 23 Number of Housing Units Time period Description of growth 193 April 1, 2010 to December 31, 2017 Net gain of units during this period based on building permits issued. 20 January 1, 2018 to April 1, 2020 Number of single-family homes anticipated based on historic trends and available lots. 97 Present to 2040 Number of accessory dwelling units that could be constructed based on a conservative estimate that 1% of homes would add such a unit by 2040. +207 Present to 2040 The city has identified four redevelopment areas in the 2040 plan, totaling 276 acres. While it is impossible to predict which sites within those 276 acres will redevelop by 2040, the household forecast would be met with redevelopment of less than 10 13 acres by 2040. TABLE E-3 HOUSING UNIT GROWTH TO MEET METROPOLITAN COUNCIL’S PROJECTIONS CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 24 TABLE E-4 2040 PLANNED LAND USE CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 25 CHAPTER F: HOUSING The housing chapter describes the current housing types found in the city and forecasts changes in the number of housing units and population for the planning period through 2040. It also contains the city’s goals and policies related to housing preservation and new development. EXISTING HOUSING CONDITIONS As described in chapter E, the city has three classifications for residential development: Low Density Residential. Up toA minimumum of 6 1 units per acre. (For new development, this plan assumes an average density of 5 units per acre.) Medium Density Residential. Up toA minimum of 16 units per acre. (For new development, this plan assumes an average density of 12 units per acre.) High Density Residential. Up toA minimum of 40 16 units per acre. (For new development, this plan assumes an average density of 30 units per acre.) In 2016 Metropolitan Council conducted an existing housing assessment for Crystal. The following are those findings, based on total housing units of 9,763 and total households of 9,461: Affordability 295 units affordable to households with income at or below 30% of Average Medium Income (AMI) 2,261 units affordable to households with income 31% to 50% of (AMI) 6,624 units affordable to households with income 51% to 80% of (AMI). Figure F-1 is a map identifying estimated market value for Crystal homes in 2018. Those homes at or below $243,500 are affordable for a household earning 80% AMI. Owner-Occupied versus rental units Owner-occupied: 6,866 units (70%) Rental units: 2,897 units (30%) Publicy subsidized units: 215 units Cost-burdened households: Income at or below 30% of AMI: 790 Income 31 to 50% of AMI: 687 Income 51 to 80% of AMI: 733 HOUSING NEEDS One of the most important goals needs is to preserve the bulk of the city’s existing, relatively affordable housing stock while encouraging development of additional housing to meet needs not addressed by the city’s existing housing stock. In 2018 a housing gaps analysis (Appendix E) was completed for four of the five cities along the proposed 13-mile corridor for the extension of the Blue Line of the light rail transit (LRT) system. The extension of the LRT transit service is described in more detail in chapter J. The first part of the report provided CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 26 FIGURE F-1 ROADWAY JURISDICTION 2018 ESTIMATED HOUSING MARKET VALUES MAP CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 27 information about existing conditions about the corridor, including the types of existing housing and demographic characteristics. Other sections of the report include interviews with real estate professional and community stakeholders to determine the future housing needs along the corridor. For the proposed LRT Bass Lake Road station in Crystal, a future housing demand of 400-600 units was identified in the report. This housing would be primarily multifamily in the form of rental apartments, senior housing, and multifamily condominiums. With several potential redevelopment sites within the ½ mile radius of the station, the station area could accommodate most of Crystal’s projected household growth through 2040, and meet the city’s goal of a minimum of 25 dwelling units per acre within the proposed Bass Lake Road station area. TOOLS TO ADDRESS HOUSING NEEDS The following are several tools that city has used to address housing needs within the community: 1.Economic Development Authority (EDA). The City has an established EDA that functions to address housing needs in two capacities. First, through its lot sale program in which structurally substandard or functionally obsolete homes are purchased, the building demolished, and the lot sold for the construction of a new home. Second, the EDA provides home improvement assistance to residents to maintain and improve their homes. 2.Metropolitan Livable Community Act (LCA). The city participates in the livable communities program which is administered by the Metropolitan Council. 3.Tax Increment Financing. 4.Zoning and subdivision ordinances. In 2018 the City Council adopted ordinances to reduce lot sizes and to allow accessory dwelling units, both of which provide options for creating new and affordable housing. 5.Rental licensing and inspection programs. The following additional tools are available to address housing needs. The city may use some or all of these tools, dependent upon a specific development project: 1.Housing bonds 2.Tax abatement 2.3. Programs administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): a.HOME Investment Partnerships b.Project Based Rental Assistance c.Low Income Housing Tax Credits 4.Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG) 5.Affordable Housing Incentive Fund (AHIF) administered by Hennepin County 6.Land Bank Twin Cities and community land trusts 7.Consolidated Request for Proposals coordinated by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency 8.Providing affordable housing resources and referrals to existing or future residents including first time homebuyer, down payment assistance and foreclosure prevention programs 9.Housing Improvement Areas (Minnesota State Statutes, sections 428A.11 to 428A.21) 10.Participation in housing-related organizations, partnerships and initiatives CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 28 HOUSING POLICIES 1.Preserve most of the city’s existing single family detached houses. About 75% of the city’s housing units are detached single family houses, and these are relatively affordable when compared to houses in other suburbs in the Twin Cities metropolitan region. The vast majority of the city’s existing houses will remain, so making preservation is critically important. Preservation activities may include not only repairs and maintenance but also major renovations and additions that significantly transform and update an existing house. 2.Preserve most of the city’s other housing types, such as townhouses, duplexes and apartments, and also seek opportunities to eliminate blighted, structurally substandard or functionally obsolete properties. 3.Increase the availability of new housing of the type currently underrepresented in Crystal’s housing stock, such as move-up single family houses, multi-family apartments, and senior independent living rental or co-op units. This goal policy recognizes that redevelopment will be controlled and limited by market demand, physical constraints, financial and political realities, and a limited legal environment for the use of eminent domain. 4.Metropolitan Council has established the city’s share of the region’s needed additional affordable housing for 2021-2030 as 25 units. The following is a breakdown of the number of these units by area median income (AMI): At or below 30% of AMI – 14 units From 31-50% of AMI - 1 unit From 51-80% of AMI – 10 units The city expects to meet this need with construction of additional higher densitymulti-family housing, accessory dwelling units at existing homes, or a combination of both. HOUSING IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS 1.Continue participation in the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act, including compliance with the 1995 housing goals agreement. Crystal is already meeting the goals contained within that agreement. 2.Use regulatory tools to protect life and property, and to preserve the existing housing stock. Crystal is currently using the following regulatory tools: Rental licensing and inspections program. General code enforcement activities to promote community maintenance and upkeep including enforcement actions necessary to gain compliance with city code. Continue incentives for preservation of the of the city’s existing single family detached houses. Specific city-funded programs limited to households below 110% of area median income to be used include: Center for Energy and the Environment which provides technical and financial assistance related to home improvements. Crystal grant program which provides grants for 20% of eligible home improvement costs. The Crystal Grant Program and theCommunity Fix-Up Fund Interest Subsidy Program are designed to supplement existing loan programs available from the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, private lenders and other sources. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 29 Both programs are administered by the Center for Energy and the Environment, which also provides technical assistance. 4.Acquire blighted, structurally substandard and functionally obsolete residential property for demolition and replacement with new houses in accordance with the city’s Economic Development Authority’s (EDA) on-going program, budget parameters and market conditions. 5.Work with developers to incorporate the construction of new housing consistent with the city’s housing goals into redevelopment projects as appropriate for the redevelopment site. Through this policy, the city intends to achieve its goal meet the need for development of at least 25 new affordable units, and 25 dwelling units per acre within the proposed Bass Lake Road station area, as well as meeting new housing needs based on demographic projections. It is likely that such development would occur in one or more of the potential redevelopment areas identified in Chapter E. Based on the assumed average density of 30 units/acre described at the beginning of this chapter, the affordable housing need could be accommodated on one or two potential redevelopment sites totaling less than 10 acres. The city will continue to work with developers to find appropriate sites for such housing as market conditions dictate. 6.As roadway congestion continues to increase, promote Crystal’s locational advantage as a first ring suburban community, including its relative proximity to employment concentrations, activity centers and regional attractions. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 30 CHAPTER G: ROADWAY JURISDICTION This chapter focuses on the question of which government entity is responsible for each roadway, and identifies anticipated changes to roadway jurisdiction. The following acronyms are used throughout this chapter and throughout this Comprehensive Plan: Municipal State Aid (MSA). A roadway that the city has identified as having significant importance to the overall transportation network. The roadway must meet certain state requirements on design and the city is eligible to spend its allocation of state aid funding on maintenance and reconstruction of that road segment. County State Aid Highway (CSAH). Like MSA streets, but owned, managed and maintained by Hennepin County. Trunk Highway (TH). Owned, managed and maintained by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (“MnDOT”). JURISDICTION OF CITY ROADWAYS The following is a description of the roadways that are under the jurisdiction of either Hennepin County or MnDOT (see Figure G-1). 1.CSAH 8 (West Broadway Ave.) was originally called Territorial Road and was the main route northwest from Minneapolis. In the 1940s its role as a trunk highway was supplanted by what is now CSAH 81. 2.CSAH 9 (42nd Ave. /Rockford Rd.) was a trunk highway (TH 55) until that designation was shifted to Olson Memorial Highway in the 1950s. 3.CSAH 10 (56th Ave./Bass Lake Road) has always been a county road. 4.CSAH 81 (Bottineau Boulevard) was a trunk highway (TH 52 then TH 169) until approximately 30 years ago, when MnDOT turned it over to Hennepin County as part of an exchange for the current alignment of TH 169. 5.CSAH 70 (27th Ave./Medicine Lake Road), CSAH 102 (Douglas Dr.) and CSAH 156 (Winnetka Ave.) are section line roads, meaning that they follow the “square mile” survey lines established under the township-range survey system used throughout most of the U.S. 6.TH 100 was built in the 1930s and 1940s as Minneapolis’ first beltway. The segments through and adjacent to Crystal were reconstructed to modern freeway standards in the early 2000s. ROADWAY JURISDICTION POLICIES The city is in the process of adopting a roadway jurisdictional transfer policy. Hennepin County has in the past expressed their interest in eliminating CSAH 8 from their road system by turning it over to the city. The city would accept responsibility for this roadway only after it is reconstructed to the city’s urban standards with municipal consent or the county provides the city with the funds to accomplish same. The city is unsure whether the segment north of CSAH 10 (56th/Bass Lake Rd) is a good candidate for turnback and would not consider such a change without further study and consultation with the cities of New Hope and Brooklyn Park. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 31 FREIGHT There City does not have are not any barge, truck/intermodal freight terminals in the CityCrystal. Canadian Pacific and Union Pacific do have railways through the Ccity. The large commercial area located at West Broadway Avenue and 56th Avenue North (Bass Lake Road) downtown Crystal area is the largest commercial area in the City and is well served by Hennepin County highwaysroadways. There are no known issues for good movements through the Cityin Crystal on the Ccity’s State Aid Municipal system. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 32 FIGURE G-1 ROADWAY JURISDICTION MAP CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 33 CHAPTER H: ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATIONS This chapter describes how each roadway fits into the regional transportation system and hierarchy of different types of roadways. It also considers specific changes to roadway configurations including increasing or reducing the number of lanes on some arterial or major collector roadways. The following terms are used frequently throughout this chapter: Principal arterial. In the metropolitan area principal arterials are typically trunk highways owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (“MnDOT”). Most are freeways, which have controlled access with grade-separated interchanges, or expressways, which have limited access with at-grade, signalized intersections at major cross streets. Principal arterials tend to favor maximum mobility to promote traffic flow and minimal access points. Minor arterial. These roadways are generally county roadways balancing mobility and access. Older minor arterials typically favor access more than more recently constructed minor arterials. Major collector. These roadways are typically city streets but also include some county facilities. Major collectors slightly favor access over mobility. Minor collector. These roadway are city streets that typically have been designated as Municipal State Aid (“MSA”) routes. They favor access over mobility. Other local streets. These roadways represent the majority of mileage in the city’s roadway system. They also favor access over mobility. CLASSIFICATION OF CITY ROADWAYS Functional classification designations help identify which routes are most worthy of federal funding, guide local decisions regarding mobility versus access, and in developing areas identify needs for right- of-way preservation and land use regulation for future routes. These designations are based on parameters established by Metropolitan Council. This comprehensive plan established the following functional classifications (see Figure H-1): TH 100 is a principal arterial. The following routes are minor arterials: -Part of CSAH 8 (West Broadway Avenue) from Douglas Drive to 56th Ave. -CSAH 9 (42nd Ave.) -CSAH 10 (56th Avenue/Bass Lake Road) -CSAH 70 (Medicine Lake Road) -CSAH 81 (Bottineau Boulevard) -CSAH 102 (Douglas Drive south of West Broadway) -CSAH 156 (Winnetka Avenue from 30th Avenue to 39th Avenue) The following routes are major collectors: -CSAH 8 (West Broadway) north of 56th Avenue -CSAH 8 (West Broadway) south of Douglas Drive -36th Avenue The following routes are minor collectors: -32nd Ave. from Welcome Ave. to New Hope border. -34th Ave. from Welcome Ave. to Hampshire Ave. -38th Ave. from Welcome Ave. to Hampshire Ave. -47th Ave. from Welcome Ave. to Louisiana Ave. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 34 -47th Ave. from CSAH 81 (Bottineau Blvd) to CSAH 8 (W. Broadway). -Fairview Ave. west of CSAH 102 (Douglas Drive) to New Hope. -Corvallis Ave. from CSAH 8 (West Broadway) to CSAH 81 (Bottineau Boulevard). -54th Ave. from CSAH 8 (West Broadway ) to Nevada Ave. -55th Ave. from Douglas Drive to Sherburne Ave. -Wilshire Boulevard from Regent Ave. to CSAH 81 (Bottineau Blvd). -58th Ave. from CSAH 10 (Orchard Ave.) to Regent Ave. -58th Ave. from Elmhurst Ave. to Sumter Ave. -Winnetka Ave. from 58th Ave. to 60th Ave. -Sumter Ave. from 58th Ave. to CSAH 10. -Nevada Ave. from CSAH 10 to 54th Ave. -Sherburne Ave. from CSAH 10 to 55th Ave. -Douglas Dr. from 55th Ave. to CSAH 8. -Regent Ave. from 58th Ave. to Wilshire Blvd. -Welcome Ave. from 42nd Ave. to 46th Ave. and 47th Ave. to CSAH 8 -Noble Ave. -Hampshire Ave. from 38th Ave. to 47th Ave. -Hampshire Ave. from CSAH 70 (Medicine Lake Road) to 36th Ave. -Adair Ave. from 36th Ave. to 47th Ave. -Louisiana Ave. from CSAH 9 (42nd Ave.) to Fairview Ave. -Xenia Ave. from 46th Ave. from 46th to 47th Ave. -46th Ave. from Welcome Ave. to Xenia Ave. ●Forecasted 2040 traffic volumes for principal and minor arterials were developed by Hennepin County in 2016 for its 2040 Transportation Systems Plan. The city accepts and incorporates these annual average daily traffic (AADT) forecasts into this plan and they are as shown in italics in Figure H-1. ●The city has allocated the 2040 employment, housing and population forecasts from Chapter D to specific Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZ) based on reasonable expectations for infill development and redevelopment consistent with Chapter E (see Figures H-2 and H-3). A traffic analysis zone is a unit of geography used in transportation planning models. The TAZ used in this plan was determined by the Metropolitan Council. ●All existing Pprincipal and A-minor arteral roadways are owned and operatedmaintained by either the Minnesota Department of Transportation or Hennepin County. Information on the existing number of lanes and future number of lanes is available through their Comprehensive Planning documents. Additionally, heavy commercial traffic volumes is available from the respective jurisdictions. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 35 FIGURE H-1 CRYSTAL ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATIONS NOTE: There are technical errors with this map. These will be corrected for the Dec. 18th meeting CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 36 FIGURE H-2 TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 37 FIGURE H-3 2040 METROPOLITAN FORECASTS BY TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES (TAZ). Unless noted otherwise, numbers are positive. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 38 ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION POLICIES The following are the city’s policies relating to roadway functional classification. 1. MSA routes except 36th Avenue are classified as “minor collectors.” 2. No new roadways should be constructed with more than one travel lane in each direction unless they also have a center left turn lane or, preferably, a median with left turn lanes. 3. Streetscape improvements should be used to enhance the visual appeal of the community for visitors and residents alike. Enhanced streetscaping, while taking into consideration maintenance needs and costs, should be a consideration for any major new roadway construction or existing roadway reconstruction project. Also, such improvements may be implemented along existing roadways where reconstruction is not anticipated for some time, provided that the streetscaping will not substantially conflict with anticipated long term improvements for the roadway or have significant maintenance requirements or cost implications. 4. The city will work with Hennepin County in applying its access management guidelines (from its 2040 Transportation Systems Plan) to any areas of new development or significant redevelopment in the city where such areas abut a minor arterial roadway. MnDOT Access Management Guidelines are not applicable because the only principal arterial roadway in the city, Trunk Highway 100, is a freeway with no direct access except at the 36th Avenue interchange. ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS The following are the city’s implementation strategies relation to roadway functional classifications. 1. Continue to monitor and evaluate the road network system to align traffic demands on the system with the design, maintenance, and operation of the roadway system. 2. Hennepin County has in the past expressed their interest in eliminating CSAH 8 from their road system by turning it over to the city. The city would accept responsibility for this roadway only after it is reconstructed to the city’s urban standards with municipal consent or the county provides the city with the funds to accomplish same. The city is unsure whether the segment north of CSAH 10 (56th/Bass Lake Rd) is a good candidate for turnback and would not consider such a change without further study and consultation with the cities of New Hope and Brooklyn Park. 3. Consider specific streetscape improvements along existing roadways that are not likely to be subject to major roadway improvements, such as full reconstruction and/or widening, for the foreseeable future. Take maintenance expectations and costs into consideration when evaluating any potential improvements. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 39 CHAPTER I: NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION This chapter addresses the need for facilities to accommodate pedestrian and bicycle travel. The following terms are used frequently throughout this chapter:  Sidewalk - A facility primarily for pedestrians, and typically (but not always) constructed of concrete. Sidewalks may be placed directly behind the curb or may be separated from the roadway by a boulevard area.  Multi-Use Path trail - A facility for both pedestrians and bicyclists, and typically (but not always) constructed of bituminous pavement. Multi-use paths trails may be placed in the same manner as sidewalks or substantially further separated from the roadway; for example, paths trails are sometimes located in separate right-of-way or in a public park.  Bike Lane - A facility primarily for bicyclists. Bike lanes may be shared as a roadway shoulder (“breakdown lane”). The city of Crystal does not currently have any dedicated bike lanes, although these can be found on some county roads. BACKGROUND Most of Crystal was developed in an era when little thought was given to long-term planning in general and non-motorized transportation facilities in particular. This means that the city’s natural, obvious potential routes typically along lowlands, lakefronts, and creeksides were mostly platted and developed many decades ago. Today Crystal has limited opportunities to create a system of facilities for non-motorized transportation. In addition, the city’s resources are limited and the city will not have the sort of complete, interconnected system found in many of the more recently developed suburbs. An existing and proposed sidewalk and trail plan is Figure I-1. This figure includes regional trails under the jurisdiction of the Three Rivers Park District as well as the planned and existing facilities proposed for the Regional Bicycle Transportation Network (RBTN) by the Metropolitan Council. In some cases, trails may be under multiple jurisdisdictions. For example, Hennepin County may provide the right-of-way for a trail, but the trail itself is constructed and maintained by Three Rivers Park District. NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION POLICIES 1. Due to the city’s limited resources, a culture should be created that the city’s streets are an important part of its non-motorized transportation system. Not only would the do streets to connect people to the places they want to go, but they also as a gathering space for neighborhood bonding. 2. Take advantage of low-cost opportunities to improve and publicize existing non-motorized transportation opportunities. Examples include designating striped shoulders or parking lanes as bike lanes and adoption of an official sidewalk, path trail and bike lane map. 3. In some areas where a multi-use path trail is desired, it may be more practical to utilize a combination of a sidewalk and a bike lane. 4. Explore the potential to create additional non-motorized transportation opportunities in those areas where the lay of the land has prevented standard suburban development and some remnants of the pre-development landscape remain. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 40 NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS 1. Adopt an official sidewalk and trail map showing existing and proposed facilities. 2. Consider options for improving safety at the marked pedestrian crosswalk on CSAH 102 (Douglas Drive) at Fairview Avenue near the Crystal Community Center / pool complex. 3. Where feasible, Roadways roadways with existing striped shoulders or parking lanes on both sides of the street could be designated as bike lanes where feasible. These existing segments are as follows:  CSAH 10 (56th Avenue a.k.a. Bass Lake Road) east of Yates Avenue.  Noble Avenue south of 36th Avenue.  32nd Avenue from Nevada Avenue to Winnetka Avenue.  Louisiana Avenue from CSAH 70 (27th Avenue a.k.a. Medicine Lake Rd) to 32ndAvenue.  CSAH 70 (27th Avenue a.k.a. Medicine Lake Road) west of CSAH 102 (Douglas Drive). 4. As additional roadways are re-striped or reconstructed with shoulders or parking lanes on both sides of the street, they too could be designated as bike lanes where feasible. These potential segments include but are not limited to the following:  West Broadway north of 57th Avenue (reconstruction).  West Broadway south of Fairview Avenue (reconstruction).  36th Avenue west of CSAH 102 (Douglas Drive)  36th Avenue east of Regent Avenue 5. Study the feasibility of a ped/bike bridge in the general vicinity of CSAH 81 (Bottineau Boulevard) and CSAH 10 (56th Avenue / Bass Lake Road). CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 41 FIGURE I-1 EXISTING AND PLANNED SIDEWALKS AND TRAILS CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 42 CHAPTER J: PUBLIC TRANSIT This chapter discusses Metro Transit’s current service in Crystal and the potential to extend the Blue Line of the metropolitan area light rail system (LRT) from downtown Minneapolis through Crystal to end in Brooklyn Park. This regional transit route would pass through Crystal generally parallel to CSAH 81 (Bottineau Boulevard), and includes a station in the vicinity of CSAH 10 (56th Ave. a.k.a. Bass Lake Road). Figure J-1 shows the current public transit system in Crystal, with the proposed extension of the Blue Line LRT. BACKGROUND Crystal is served by Metro Transit, an arm of the Metropolitan Council. Therefore route locations and frequency and type of service are determined by another government agency beyond the city’s control. Crystal has been identified by Metro Transit as being located in Transit Market Area III, which is described as having: “…moderate density but tends to have a less traditional street grid that can limit the effectiveness of transit. It is typically urban with large portions of suburban and suburban edge communities. Transit service in this area is primarily commuter express bus service with some fixed-route local service providing basic coverage. General public dial-a-ride services are available where fixed- route is not viable.” The following Metro Transit bus routes currently serve Crystal:  14: follows 36th and Douglas in Crystal; connects to the Robbinsdale transit center (Hubbard Marketplace) and serves Honeywell in Golden Valley as well as downtown Minneapolis via West Broadway.  705: Follows Winnetka Avenue intermittently through Crystal; connects to the Starlite transit center in Brooklyn Park and the Louisiana Avenue transit center in St. Louis Park.  716: Follows Douglas Drive and West Broadway in Crystal; connects to the Robbinsdale transit center and serves the 63rd Avenue & Bottineau Boulevard park- n-ride facility as well as the Zane Avenue corridor in Brooklyn Park.  717: Follows 42nd Avenue through Crystal; connects to Cub Foods at Nathan Lane in Plymouth and the Robbinsdale transit center (Hubbard Marketplace).  721: Follows 56th Avenue North (Bass Lake Road) in Crystal; connects to the Brooklyn Center transit center (Brookdale) and serves Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park.  755: Follows Winnetka Avenue in Crystal with a limited service loop to Nevada Avenue; serves New Hope as well as downtown Minneapolis via Golden Valley and TH 55.  758: Follows Douglas Drive and West Broadway and a short segment of Noble Avenue in Crystal; connects to the Robbinsdale transit center (Hubbard Marketplace) and serves Honeywell in Golden Valley.  764: Similar to 715, except that instead of connecting to the Robbinsdale transit center (Hubbard Marketplace), it provides express service to downtown Minneapolis via TH 100 and I-394.  767: Follows 56th Avenue (Bass Lake Road) and West Broadway on its way from New Hope to the 63rd Avenue & Bottineau Boulevard park-n-ride facility and express service from there to downtown Minneapolis via I-94. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 43 Metro Mobility also operates a non-fixed route within the twin cities metropolitan area, including Crystal. Transit Link dial-a-ride service is available in Crystal, but there are not any transit hubs in Crystal connecting to regular bus routes. Outside of the exisiting bus routes through the City,In addition to the bus service in Crystal, Tthe potential extension of the Blue Line LRT would pass through Crystal on an alignment parallel to CSAH 81 (Bottineau Boulevard) and the BNSF railroad. This facility is indicated in Metropolitan Council’s 2040 Transportation Policy Plan and is a 13-mile route with eleven proposed stations (see Figure J-1). In early 2018 engineering plans were completed to represent 90% design for this LRT project. Construction of the proposed line is expected to begin in 20192020, with service starting in 20222024. A station area plan was completed in 2016 for the Bass Lake Road LRT station (see chapter E for more information about this planning effort). CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 44 FIGURE J-1 EXISTING PUBLIC TRANSIT ROUTES, WITH PROPOSED BLUE LINE LRT EXTENSION CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 45 PUBLIC TRANSIT POLICIES 1. Because the city does not have the resources or authority to operate its own public transit service, and is dependent on a regional agency (Metro Transit) for that service, there is little for the city to do in terms of policy regarding the bus route system. 2. It is the policy of the city to assist Metro Transit in the development of the Blue Line Extension LRT project. The city’s assistance will take the form of staff participation in design and related work but not direct financial participation. PUBLIC TRANSIT IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS 1. Monitor and, as needed, participate in any Metro Transit consideration of modifying, expanding or eliminating transit service to the city. 2. Exercise the city’s land use authority and any applicable municipal consent powers regarding any such changes in service or new facilities proposed by Metro Transit. 3. Continue to assist with the development of the Blue Line Extension LRT project. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 46 CHAPTER K: AVIATION This chapter addresses the role of the Crystal Airport in the regional aviation system and describes the city’s policies for accommodating the continued operation of the facility by the Metropolitan Airports Commission. BACKGROUND Crystal Airport (airport identifier “MIC”) is owned and operated by the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), a state agency. The airport also operates five other reliever airports and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. MAC’s other five reliever airports are:  St. Paul Downtown in the city of St. Paul (airport identifier “STP”)  Flying Cloud in the city of Eden Prairie (airport identifier “FCM”)  Anoka County in the city of Blaine (airport identifier “ANE”)  Airlake in the city of Lakeville (airport identifier “LVN”)  Lake Elmo in central Washington County (airport identifier “21D”) MAC classifies Crystal, Airlake and Lake Elmo as minor relievers which mainly serve personal aviation. MAC classifies its other three reliever airports, St. Paul Downtown, Flying Cloud and Anoka County, as primary relievers which mainly serve corporate and business aviation. Total annual operations for MAC-operated reliever airports for the past several years are found in Figure K-1. MAC’s Crystal Airport occupies property is approximately 436 acres, of which 336 are within Crystal, 80 within Brooklyn Park and 20 within Brooklyn Center. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 47 FIGURE K-1 TOTAL ANNUAL OPERATIONS AT MAC-OPERATED RELIEVER AIRPORTS CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 48 Crystal Airport was established in the 1940s, immediately prior to development of the surrounding residential areas. The airport was subsequently expanded with longer runways, additional runways and larger taxiways and hangar areas. These expansions occurred after the surrounding neighborhoods had been developed. The state subsequently adopted regulations defining safety zones and limiting or even precluding certain land uses in each zone. These regulations were adopted by the city in its 1983 Airport Zoning Ordinance. In Safety Zone A, nearly all development, including not only houses but also roads, is prohibited. At this time, within the city of Crystal there are 114 single family houses and 14 multi- family dwelling units in Safety Zone A, in addition to many local streets and two minor arterial roads (CSAH 81 and 10). In Safety Zone B, houses are only permitted in an ultra-low-density, rural residential setting. At this time, within the city of Crystal there are 144 single family houses and 2 multi-family dwelling units in Safety Zone B. Because these areas were fully developed prior to the state’s creation of airport safety zones, they are allowed to remain as previously developed neighborhoods and new structures may be built to replace existing structures. In 2017 MAC adopted the 2035 Long-Term Comprehensive Plan (LTCP) for the Crystal Airport that would continue operation of the facility. However, the following are two of the more significant changes to the airport proposed by MAC in the LTCP (a summary of the changes is found on Figure K-2):  Convert portions of the existing paved blast pads on Runway 14L-32R to usable runway. This increases the published runway length from 3,267’ to 3,750’ and shifts this entire runway approximately 115’ to the northwest which will locate all of the runway protection zones (RPZs) on MAC property rather than on private residential property. The 65 DNL (Day-Night Sound Level) noise contour associated with the refined preferred alternative contains four net new residential parcels when compared to the original preferred alternative. However when compared to the baseline (existing) condition, there is only one net new residential parcel in the 65 DNL noise contour (see Figure K-3). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) only requires noise mitigation for the 65 DNL contour.  Retain a portion of the existing turf runway and operate it in a manner that will reduce runway crossing points, airfield complexity and incursion potential while preserving turf operational capabilities. Starting in 2018, MAC will complete a more detailed noise analysis as part of the environmental review required to implement the LTCP. One of the goals of MAC’s LTCP is to allow some small parts of the airport to be used for non-aeronautical, revenue-generating business property. Such use would require City Council approval in the form of an amendment to the city’s Comprehensive Plan, revisions to the zoning map and possibly a conditional use permit depending on the specific use proposed. Figure K-4 is found in the LTCP and is a comparison of the proposed airport changes in relation to Crystal’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 49 FIGURE K-2 FINAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE OVERVIEW FROM MAC’S 2035 LONG-TERM COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 50 FIGURE K-3 FINAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE DNL NOISE CONTOURS FROM 2035 MAC’S LONG- TERM COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 51 FIGURE K-4 FINAL PREFFERRED ALTERNATIVE IN MAC’S 2035 LONG-TERM COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMPARED TO CRYSTAL’S 2030 PLANNED LAND USE CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 52 AVIATION POLICIES 1. Notify the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in accordance with CFR - Part 77, using the FAA Form 7460-1 "Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration”. This requirement is currently located in Crystal’s unified development code. 2. Continue to protect airspace in accordance with the 1983 Joint Airport Zoning Ordinance, as amended. 3. If MAC proposes non-aeronautical uses on part of the airport site, the city will consider such Comprehensive Plan amendments, zoning map revisions and conditional use permits in accordance with the city’s normal exercise of its land use authority for such uses. AVIATION IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS 1. Continue to assist MAC in the implementation of the preferred alternatives in the 2035 Long Term Comprehensive Plan. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 53 CHAPTER L: PARKS AND OPEN SPACE The city of Crystal went through a year-long park system master planning process that resulted in the approval of a Park System Master Plan by the City Council in 2017 (see Appendix F). As a fully- developed city, there is very little property that can be dedicated for new parks. Therefore the Park Plan proposes to re-imagine the existing parks to meet the changing needs of Crystal’s residents. Elements of the Park Plan document are incorporated into this chapter, but a more thorough discussion of park related topics can be found in that document. This chapter describes the existing parks and trails system , and provides goals and policies necessary to achieve the planned system of parks and trails in the city. EXISTING PARKS AND TRAIL SYSTEM The Crystal park system consists of 27 individual park units (see Figure L-1). Individually, each park provides certain features that serve a niche within the overall system plan. Collectively, the parks provide a comprehensive set of facilities and amenities to serve the local population. The Park System Plan categorized all parks into four classifications. Each park classification serves a particular purpose in meeting local needs. Although some flexibility is warranted, classifying parks is necessary to ensure a well-balanced system that effectively and efficiently meets the needs of residents and recreational programs for the city. The four classifications are as follows: CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 54 FIGURE L-1: CRYSTAL’S EXISTING PARK SYSTEM CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 55 NATURAL AREAS / PASSIVE PARKS Passive park spaces provide relief in developed areas through the incorporation of nature-based elements. These parks vary in size and may be located in wetlands, floodplains, and an assortment of outlots left as open space. Specific examples may include but are not limited toThese natural areas may include the following amenities:  Trails  Boardwalks  Benches  Education opportunities such as interpretative signage  Community gardens  Nature play areas  Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP’s) The parks within Crystal identified as a natural area / passive park are:  Brownwood Park  Florida Park  Hagemeister Pond Preserve  MAC Nature Area  Memory Lane Park  Soo Line Park  Twin Lake Shores Typical Natural Area/Passive Park NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS Neighborhood parks are intended to serve residents within a half-mile (10-minute walk) of the park and provide basic recreational experiences while to meeting the needs of the immediate neighborhoods. The 13 parks are identified as neighborhood parks range in size and amenities. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 56 Through assessment and feedback from the public process, some or all ofNeighborhod parks may contain the following amenities are recommended for inclusion in neighborhood parks:  Small backstop with no groomed infield  “Regular” play area  Small multi-purpose field  Half-court basketball  Paved court (such as four square or gaga pit)  Outdoor fitness equipment  Small picnic shelter The parks within Crystal identified as a neighborhood park are:  Broadway Park  Cavanagh Park  Crystal Highlands Park  Fair School Park  Forest School Park  Iron Horse Park  Kentucky Park  Lee Park  North Bass Lake Park  Skyway Park  Sunnyview Park  Twin Oak Park  Yunkers Park Typical neighborhood park amenities COMMUNITY PARKS Community parks area intended to serve the needs of the adult and youth athletic programs. They are the location for the city’s full size athletic fields and they incorporate additional complementary CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 57 amenities to meet the recreational needs of the community. Community parks are usually at least 10 acres in size. Below is a list of amenities that are proposed to be in community parks:  Large multi-purpose rectangle field  Softball/baseball fields  Multiple full-sized courts (tennis/pickleball)  Ballfields and court lighting  Hockey rinks  Sledding hills  Park buildings with restrooms and four-season gathering space  Picnic shelters  Sand volleyball  Disc golf  Larger community play area  Dog Park  Outdoor fitness equipment The parks within Crystal identified as community parks are:  Bassett Creek Park  North Lions Park  Valley Place Park  Welcome Park Typical community park amenities DESTINATION PARKS The intended use of destination parks is to provide unique or signature gathering spaces. The size of these parks vary. The following provides a list of specialized facilities:  Destination / Inclusive inclusive play area  Flexible performance area /lawn CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 58  Water feature / fountain  Ice surface / plaza space  Community Center  Aquatic Center  Skate Park The parks within Crystal identified as a destination park are:  Becker Park  Grogan Park Typical destination park amenities TRAIL SYSTEM The Crystal trail system consists of sidewalks, and multi-use paths, and bike lanes identified in Chapter I. Some of the trails within the city are under the jurisdiction of Three Rivers Park District. The trail system is intended to make connections among neighborhoods, parks, public or semi-public facilities, shopping areas and workplaces. PARK POLICIES 1. Optimize existing park and open spaces based on current community needs. 2. Planning for the park system should place an increased emphasis on a community perspective, with a secondary emphasis on neighborhoods. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 59 3. Specific park facility improvements should attempt to maximize adaptive flexibility so that the parks may change as the needs of the neighborhood and community change. 4. Maximize opportunities to make water bodies more appealing, for example, by continuing and expanding the planting of appropriate vegetation adjacent to stormwater ponds, creeks and lakefront in parks or on other public property. In addition to improving the aesthetics of the site, it will help to improve water quality over time. 5. To the extent feasible in a first tier suburb, develop trails to improve the connectivity among park sites, community facilities, residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. Chapter I has a proposed sidewalk and trail plan. 6. Continue to require park dedication or payment-in-lieu, as appropriate, for any new development that results in an increased number of residential dwelling units or acres of other development in the city. Such funds will be used for capital improvements to the parks system including but not limited to land acquisition, clearance and site preparation for parks or open space use; expansion or improvement of existing facilities; and construction of new facilities. PARK IMPLEMENTATION ITEMS Future park improvement projects would will be funded by the city through its Capitol ImprovementsLong Term Plan (CIP)(Appendix G), with additional outside funding provided through grants, stormwater credits, and other sources of revenue. The initial investments would occur during a time frame of three to five years with a focus on the most immediate needs of the community. 1. The relocation of the Becker Park ballfields to Welcome Park and the redevelopment of Becker Park are the city’s top park project priorities. 2. Following the anticipated investment in Becker and Welcome parks, the remaining community parks will be prioritized for development and will be implemented based on available funding. By prioritizing efforts to implement community parks, a larger population can be served. Though a more prevalent effort will be made towards community parks, neighborhood park development funding will be needed to replace specific amenities,. Amenities will be prioritized by taking into account the physical condition of the amenity and needs of the community. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 60 CHAPTER M: WATER RESOURCES Crystal’s water resources include wastewater and sanitary sewer, surface water and potable water. WASTEWATER AND SANITARY SEWER PLAN Crystal is a fully developed community, and as such, the land use changes contemplated in this Comprehensive Plan are expected to have an a insignificant impact on the regional wastewater treatment and disposal system. The city’s sanitary sewer collection system is complete and the city’s focus will continue to be on maintenance and preservation of the existing system. The city does not anticipate construction of any major sanitary sewer trunk lines or lift stations through 2040. No service agreements have been needed or entered into with adjoining communities after December 1, 2008. Metropolitan Council forecasts that both average and peak flows will decline slightly through 2030. Their forecasts are based on their growth forecasts for population, households and employment (see Chapter D). TABLE M-1 SANITARY SEWER FLOW FORECASTS SANITARY SEWER FLOW FORECASTS 2010 2020 2030 2040 Sewered Population 22,151 22,700 23,200 23,800 Sewered Households 9,183 9,500 9,600 9,700 Sewered Employment 3,929 4,400 4,640 4,900 CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 61 FIGURE M-1 CRYSTAL SANITARY SEWER NETWORK CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 62 The city does not have any Individual Sewage Treatment Systems (ISTS) within its boundaries. The city is committed to preventing and reducing excessive infiltration and inflow (“I/I”) in the local sewer system. To that end, the city has implemented the following policies:  The city prohibits connection of sump pumps, and foundation drains, and rain leaders to the sanitary sewer.  The city requires the disconnection of existing foundation drains, sump pumps, and roof leaders to the sanitary sewer system.  As part of the street reconstruction program between 1995 and 2017,; o tThe city offered to install sump boxes in the boulevard in those locations where drain tile or storm sewer will be located adjacent to the street. o As part of the neighborhood street reconstruction program, tThe city televised the sanitary sewer mains in each project area and repaired or replaced pipes and manholes that have been severely compromised as project funding allowed. o The city provided residents the option to replace a portion of their lateral sanitary sewer connection, including the Wye connection at the main.  As part of its 2009-2010 water meter replacement program, each house in the city was inspected for prohibited connections to the sanitary sewer and the city ordered removal of any unlawful connections.  The city is actively replacing replaced sanitary sewer manhole lids with new lids that do not have any holes in them. This project is anticipated to be completed city wide in the next one to three years.This project was completed in 2018.  The city is lining its sanitary sewer mains and has completed a number of sanitary sewer lining projects and will continue to do so. Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) continues to be a challenge in the CityCrystal. The sources of the I&I include cracks in the existing private lateral services, or main sanitary sewer pipes, illegal connections, and manhole cracks. The city is evaluating the purchase of flow meters to further investigate the location of I&I to take mititagtio action. Replacement of the sanitary sewer manhole lids with solid covers has resulted in noticeable reduction in inflow during large rain events. CaptialCapital projects, including cost and schedule, to reduce I&I are shown in the City’s Capital Improvement Long Term Plan (Appendix F). The city is looking to evaluating the purchase of some flow meters in the coming years to be able to try and gather more information on the extent and location of I&I within the entire sanitary sewer system. This data collection will be followed by analysis and follow up action where feasible. One of the key aspects of analysis is to try and measure or estimate the amount of clearwater fowing flow generated by the public and private sewer systems. Once sources are better identified, costs for correction can be determined. That said, the Citycity is not delaying efforts to line the sanitary sewer system throughout the City and has allocated over a half million dollars a year to this effort. Project efforts and timelines to mitigate I&I are shown in the Sanitary Sewer Capital ImprovementLong Term Plan (CIP). The utility CIP is funded through user fees to all properties in the Citycity. SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN Crystal lies within the Bassett Creek and Shingle Creek watersheds. In late 2018, The the city is currently in the process of updating itscompleted a draft of its Surface Water Management Plan and this update is expected to be completed in 2018for review by the two watershed districts in Crystal (see Appendix H). The plan was also submitted to the Metropolitan Council for their review. CITY OF CRYSTAL DECEMBER 4, 2018 2040 Comprehensive Plan 63 POTABLE WATER SUPPLY PLAN The Joint Water Commission (JWC) owns and operates the water supply for the cities of Crystal, New Hope and Golden Valley. In 2018 The the JWC has submitted a water supply plan for approval which is included in this Comprehensive Plan by reference as Appendix I.