New Goddard School proposal sparks community debate

In a recent city council meeting, plans for a new Goddard School daycare facility were discussed, with the proposal submitted by Gold Ridge Companies. This facility will be the second Goddard School in the community, located on the east side of Settlers Ridge Parkway, and is set to occupy 1.865 acres of land, with an additional outlot of 0.515 acres for future development.

The proposed daycare facility requires a conditional use permit, as daycares are classified as a conditional use in the Business Campus District where the property is located. The planning commission reviewed the project just two days prior to the council meeting and raised several key points, particularly regarding parking and traffic flow. The facility is required to provide 69 parking stalls based on zoning ordinances, but the initial plan includes only 46 stalls, with an additional 23 stalls designated as \"proof of parking\" to be installed if necessary.

Concerns were also voiced about the architectural design and landscaping, with the building expected to meet the city’s requirement of 65% Class 1 materials, including stone, glass, and copper. The landscaping plan includes the installation of 28 trees and 207 shrubs to meet the city’s canopy coverage requirements.

During the discussion, council members expressed their opinions on various aspects of the project, including the need for a one-way traffic pattern to improve safety during drop-off and pick-up times. Additionally, there were inquiries about the proximity of the playground to the property line and the potential for future development on the outlot, which is currently not buildable but could be combined with adjacent properties in the future.

The council ultimately closed the hearing, moving forward with the approval process for the new daycare facility, which aims to enhance childcare options in the community while addressing concerns about safety and traffic management.