HomeMy WebLinkAboutTranquil Acres Narrative 2.2.24
January 2nd, 2024
Ms. Robin Collins
Planning & Zoning Director
City of Caldwell Planning and Zoning Department
621 Cleveland Boulevard, Caldwell ID 83605
Re: Subdivision: Planned Unit Development and Preliminary Plat Applications
Dear Ms. Collins,
I am writing on behalf of my client, Harland Baker Trustee, to present the Tranquil Acres residential
development project. The development is situated at 3607 S Montana Ave, Caldwell, Idaho, 83605, and
spans approximately 3.5 acres. Our client seeks approval for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and
Preliminary Plat.
Preliminary Plat Subdivision:
The overarching objective of the Tranquil Acres development, a one-phase project, is to furnish the
present and prospective residents of Caldwell with a secure, healthful, and aesthetically pleasing living
environment. The project aligns with the future land use plan by preserving medium-density residential
designations and adhering to the goals and objectives delineated in the City of Caldwell comprehensive
plan. As such, it contributes to the long-term vision for community development.
Density Considerations: The project site currently bears an R-2 Residential and Medium Density
Residential zoning designation in the future land use plan. Tranquil Acres seeks to retain the existing R-2
zoning to align with the current and prospective utilization of the property. By preserving the R-2
Medium Density Residential zoning and incorporating a PUD, Tranquil Acres will harmonize with the
adjacent subdivisions to the north, east, and south, thereby facilitating a seamless progression of
residential housing within the existing neighborhoods. The proposed density for the project falls well
below the maximum threshold containing a PUD of 8.9 units per acre, promoting an efficient and
comfortable density in this burgeoning area of Caldwell.
Water and Sewer: Tranquil Acres will connect water and sewer utilities to the City of Caldwell services,
which are readily available.
Parking: The single-family houses within Tranquil Acres will each have a garage and driveway, providing
a total of 2 parking spaces per lot. If the stormwater storage system is placed underground, additional
parking may be available on Block 1 Lot 19.
Planned Unit Development:
PUD Waivers: As part of our preliminary subdivision and Planned Unit Development (PUD) application
for Tranquil Acres, we kindly request consideration for the following waivers upon approval of the PUD
application. These adjustments are minor in nature and should not significantly impact the overall
project:
1. 6,000-square-foot lot size requirement
2. Minimum frontage requirement for both single family attached and detached lots with less than
45 feet of frontage
3. A 0’ setback for the single family attached lots
4. Variance to height restriction immediately adjacent to single family homes (houses on Montana
Ave)
Tranquil Acres is classified as an infill and meets the following criteria:
• Parcel under 20 acres
• Parcel located within a largely developed area (minimum 50% of land within 300 feet of subject
property developed) (See attached figure)
• Municipal services are readily available
The development qualifies as an infill project, and accordingly, we respectfully request consideration for
the following waivers upon approval of the PUD application. The requested adjustments are as follow:
1. Eight-foot wide paved major pathway with a 5-foot wide landscape buffer on either side that
meanders through the property.
2. Varying bermed street landscape buffers of a 2:1 to 3:1 ratio
3. Reduction of provided amenities from 4 to 3
4. Reduction of the required additional offstreet parking.
These waivers are contingent upon meeting PUD requirements and our ongoing collaboration with city
staff to ensure a successful project outcome.
Section 10-03-07(2) – Maximum Living Choices and Mixed Use: In compliance with Caldwell Municipal
Code, a PUD must furnish a diverse array of living environments by accommodating various housing and
building types. Tranquil Acres fulfills this mandate by offering distinct housing products, catering to
diverse preferences and affordability concerns. The project proposes 31 buildable lots with 30 single
family attached lots and 1 single family detached lot, and 7 common lots which will be utilized for
dedicated open space and amenities.
Section 10-03-07(4) – Open Space Requirement: Tranquil Acres satisfies the usable open space
requirement by allocating 0.64 acres (10.26%) of qualified open space to the members of the
community. This open space consists of a pickleball court, play area, micro pathway, and buffers
between differing land uses.
Section 10-03-07(4)(a) – Amenities: The Tranquil Acres project
prioritizes community welfare by offering
a wide array of amenities tailored to residents' needs. Among these are five-foot-wide paved micro
pathways connecting residential areas to non-residential zones and recreational facilities designed to
foster a sense of community and belonging. These recreational amenities include a playground lot for
families with children, a dedicated green space for outdoor activities, and energy star-certified housing.
Additionally, with the approval of the City Council, the project will include EV-ready houses for electric
vehicles, and a Pickle Ball court in the green space, inviting residents to participate in one of America's
fastest-growing sports.
Conclusion:
In summary, the Tranquil Acres project is a thoughtfully planned development tailored to the needs of
its residents, fostering a sense of community, health, and sustainability. The provided amenities that are
incorporated into the development's design offers an enticing lifestyle for those seeking a superior
residential experience.
Harland Baker Trustee and the team are enthusiastic about introducing the Tranquil Acres project to the
Caldwell community. We believe that this development presents innovative and high- quality housing
options, complemented by a variety of amenities that cultivate a healthy and appealing living
environment. Our objective is to forge a fruitful working relationship with the citizens and stakeholders
of the community to facilitate its growth in a sustainable and positive manner.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require any additional information or have any questions. We
appreciate your consideration of the Tranquil Acres project and eagerly anticipate collaborating with you.
Sincerely,
Jesse Christensen, P.E.
Applicant Representative/Engineer
HECO Engineers
5700 E Franklin Rd, Suite 160 – Nampa, ID 83687
208-642-3304tra