Title
Discuss and consider action regarding a request for a variance to Section DG8.1C of the Engineering Design Guidelines to allow the extension of overhead utilities to serve portions of the Renewable Energy Park Subdivision, also known as130 Commerce Center, a167-acre mixed use development by the Pflugerville Community Development Corporation located at the southwest corner of Pecan Street and SH 130.
Summary
The City's Engineering Design Guidelines requires that all powerlines be placed underground. Overhead utilities are proposed along the northern and a portion of the eastern perimeters of the parcel, and are only anticipated for the initial phase as indicated on the attached exhibit and all subsequent phases will have underground utilities in conformity with the City's requirements. Overhead utilities do exist in the area, including the west side of Sun Light Near Way.
A letter of intent prepared by DCS Engineering and an exhibit prepared by Oncor are attached.
Per the Engineering Design Guidelines, variance requests shall be submitted in writing to the City Engineer for consideration and within 21 days, a written report with a recommendation shall be provided to the City Council in order to act on the variance.
A vicinity map and Street View photos prepared by the City are also attached for reference. This map reflects the map submitted with the request and illustrates the proximity of existing overhead power lines in the area. This intersection is a prominent gateway into Pflugerville. The Pflugerville 2030 Comprehensive Plan does not specifically reference overhead utility or gateway issues related to the streetscape, except to the extent "There should be gateways signifying entry into the city from the highways and at key locations within individual centers. The landscaping, signage and public art should promote the unique design and identity of these corridors." While a variety of uses, including light industrial, may be contemplated in this development, the north end is envisioned to have retail and commercial uses, such as restaurant, office, and hotel that complement this future employment node.
Status
Streets and utilities are currently being installed to serve Phase One of the development.
Prior City Council Action
A variance to allow a pole mounted transformer at the southeastern corner of the property in conjunction with the lift station serving the development was approved by the City Council on December 13, 2011.
Deadline for City Council Action
N/A
Projected Future City Council Action
None.
Fiscal Impact
None.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends denial of the overhead lines extending along Pecan and south along the SH 130 Frontage Road, and approval of the overhead lines at south corner of the parcel in the vinicity of the lift station providing future electric service to the proposed light industrial use.
Drafter
Trey Fletcher, Assistant City Manager