HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - Special Use Permit to allow college or university use of property at 203-205 Main StreetCITY OF AMES, IOWA
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUST
IN THE MATTER OF THE
APPLICATION OF TURN KEY
INVESTMENTS LLC FOR A SPECIAL
USE PERMIT, SECTION 29.1503,
AMES MUNICIPAL CODE, TO
ALLOW COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY
USE OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 203-205 MAIN STREET
FACTS
0 L E
JUL 2 6 2012 1P
iT
CITY CLERK
CASE NO. 12-11
GEOCODE NO. 09-02-379-080
Main Street is an area several blocks long which is zoned DSC (Downtown Service Center). The
area is characterized by numerous buildings with historic architectural styling that house
commercial uses in individual storefronts offering an eclectic variety of goods and services
within easy walking distance of each other and convenient to parking. This area has recently
enjoyed revitalization as property owners and tenants have undertaken investment to enhance the
downtown's historic character and atmosphere. The building at this address is a two story
structure on the north side of the street with several suites on the lower level. Its second story
has large display size windows along the south side for ample natural lighting as well skylights
allowing in more natural light to that floor. The Iowa State University College of Design has
been experiencing a period of high enrollment, leading to challenges in finding sufficient
classroom and studio space on campus. They have been looking off campus for suitable
classroom space and became interested in leasing the second floor of this downtown building.
While this area is meant primarily for commercial uses, college and university uses are possible
through the Special Permit process. The large, open floor spaces and abundance of natural light
make it a good location for studio classes. The anticipated uses of the space would be for
graduate level studio work primarily involving painting and for an Urban Planning design
course. Each of the classes would have approximately 20-25 students who would each have a
reserved studio space. The entry space on the first floor will have a gallery and an office area
reserved for 4-5 instructors for research they are conducting. The gallery will be for display of
the students' design work and it will be open for public viewing at regularly scheduled hours.
No sales of the works are planned. It is hoped that the community location will give the students
more involvement in the city, and the studio will give the public an opportunity to interact with
the college. The studio areas will have 24/7 security restricted access for the students and they
will be able to park in the parking available downtown or use the bus which has nearby routes.
DECISION
The Board considers the standards applicable to Special Use Permits under the provisions of the
zoning ordinance. The proposed use is harmonious with the City's Land Use Policy Plan and
will not involve activities that will create any detriment or disturbance to this area. The location
is fully and adequately served by public facilities and set -vices without additional cost. The use
will be designed and operated consistently with the present character of the vicinity, and Should
be compatible with commercial uses that Surround it. In light of the evidence presented, the
Board finds that it can and will grant this Special Use Permit.
ORDER
WFIEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED that the applicant is Granted a Special Use Permit, Section
29.1503 of the Ames Municipal Code, to allow the Iowa State University College of' Design to
use building space for studios, offices and a gallery on the property located at 203-205 Mall'i
Street.
Any person desiring to appeal this decision to a Court of record may do so within 30 days after
the filing of this decision.
Done this 27t" day Of June, 2012,
Emily Burton
Secretary to the Board
. .... ......
Bruce Calhoun
Chaff