The following comments pertain to Project Number: PLMISC20210062 and the request for a Type II Waiver and Modification to the Public Improvement Standards to allow a slope greater than six percent on a portion of Cooley Road.
This application is requesting a waiver to make exception to the Public Improvement Standards of a six percent roadway grade based upon Bend Development Code, Chapter 3.4 Public Improvement Standards criteria in section 3.4.150.B and condition #6, which states "the modification or waiver is needed to allow development of, or street access to, the property because of topographical constraints." Upon examining the application, Plan & Profile submission C6.1 and viewing the site, this request appears not to be based on topographical constraints, but is a cost-saving strategy regarding connecting to the existing developed roadway and utility improvements at the end of current Cooley Road.
To achieve a lower road profile and a six percent grade for the proposed extension of Cooley would require that the end of an existing sewer main (and possibly also a water main) be reconfigured which would result in increased construction costs. To make this reconfiguration may also require some minor portion of the developed end of Cooley Road would be affected as well. Avoiding these changes appears to be the primary reason for the waiver request as well as the resulting cost-savings.
A lower road profile, lower crest and staying within the maximum six percent slope for a major arterial road as per Bend Development Code, Chapter 3.4 Public Improvement Standards, 3.4.200 Transportation Improvement Standards section F, Table C would best serve the public and best maintain their road safety. While this extension of Cooley Road will initially serve several light industrial properties and the proposed relocation of the City of Bend - Public Works Department, it is also planned to be an important future connection through to Deschutes Market Road. It is an important consideration to develop Cooley Road to proper Public Improvement Standards for both the immediate needs and to fulfill future transportation system plans.
Thank you for your consideration in these matters.
Sincerely,
James Beauchemin