From
Chris Hartmann
Title
Epic Central Zoning Regulations
Presenter
David Jones, AICP, Chief City Planner
Recommended Action
Approve
Analysis
SUMMARY:
City leaders have directed Staff to produce a zoning document to guide anticipated development at Epic Central. With the construction of the Public Safety Building, the Summit, Epic Waters, and The Epic, there are approximately 23 remaining developable acres over three lots with visibility from SH-161 (Exhibit A and Exhibit B). The document attached as Exhibit C - Draft Ordinance is design to facilitate development on these lots.
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS:
The draft zoning document focuses on three elements: desired land uses, architectural standards, and the relationship between new development and the system of lakes and boardwalk.
Land Use
The zoning document establishes Office (O) District as the base zoning district with some modifications. Uses that are allowed by right are those that fit with the City’s vision for Epic Central. Permissible uses include restaurants, brewpubs, offices, and hotels. Uses that may fit with the City’s vision require a Specific Use Permit. These uses include multi-family apartments, entertainment, and retail. Uses that are not consistent with the City’s vision are prohibited. These uses include adult day care home, veterinary clinic, and laundry drop off/pick-up.
Architectural Standards
Architectural standards are intended to facilitate development that maintains architectural unity with existing City investments. The Public Safety Building and Summit have become iconic to Grand Prairie; these buildings exhibit thoughtful material choices, creative architectural treatments, and distinctive design. Recent City developments-Epic Waters and The Epic-exhibit these characteristics as well. Proposed standards reflect this established design theme by:
• Restricting building materials to brick, stone, glass, and architectural metal, which is consistent with existing materials,
• Prohibiting a single building material from exceeding 30% of a building façade,
• Requiring unique and creative building articulation and window treatments that exceed the typical column bump-outs and store-front windows, and
• Allowing alternative Appendix F compliance for roof profiles and projecting cornices consistent with the established design motifs.
Lakes and Boardwalk
The system of lakes and boardwalk is a defining feature of Epic Central. The zoning document establishes a framework to ensure that future development capitalizes on and enhances this unique feature. Design standards are intended to create the conditions for visually engaging and vibrant spaces that are consistent with the character of the overall district. These standards require development to utilize the existing water features and views to create unique spaces including patios, promenades, pedestrian paths, and streetscapes.