DEPARTMENT: Development Services
SUBJECT: TPV 19-027 Tree Preservation Variance for Rapid Express Car Wash
SUMMARY:
TPV 19-027: Request by Mr. Thomas Carter, P.E., for approval of a tree preservation variance request from Unified Development Code 35-523 (h), "significant trees shall be preserved at eighty (80) percent and heritage trees at one hundred (100) percent preservation within both the 100-year floodplains and environmentally sensitive areas", general located off of I10 and Stonewall Hill Road. Staff recommends approval. (Mark Bird, (210) 207-0278, mark.bird@sanantonio.gov, Development Services Department)
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Project A/P# M2447893
Council District: 8
Consultant: Thomas Carter, P.E. Pape-Dawson Engineers.
Staff Coordinator: Mark Bird, City Arborist, (210) 207-0278
ANALYSIS:
The Development Services Department (DSD) has reviewed the information presented in Mr. Thomas Carter letter dated May 29, 2019.
The Unified Development Code (UDC) - Article V, Section 35-523 (h), 100-Year Floodplain(s) and Environmentally Sensitive Areas states that, "Significant trees shall be preserved at eighty (80) percent preservation within both the 100-year floodplains and environmentally sensitive areas. Mitigation shall be prohibited in floodplains and environmentally sensitive area except when a variance is granted by the Planning Commission."
The applicant is requesting a Variance Request to mitigate for removal of surveyed trees within the Riparian Buffer in excess of the 80% minimum preservation of protected significant trees in place under the 2010 Tree Preservation Ordinance for development of the Rapid Express Car Wash. DSD staff does agree with the applicant's request to mitigate via planting for tree survey inches determined to be below 80% significant tree preservation for the following reasons:
1. Existing site conditions - The project includes 1.356 acres of proposed commercial property. A portion of the site includes the floodplain and...
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