HomeMy Public PortalAboutPublic Comment #22 (Stearn)October 29, 2013
Ms. Denyelle Nishimori
Senior Planner
Town of Truckee
10183 Truckee Airport Road
Truckee, CA 96161
RE: Joerger Ranch Specific Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report
Dear Ms. Nishimori:
We are writing to provide comment on the above referenced Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR).
During the scoping session for this document, we requested that the possibility of maintaining a multi-
purpose trail where the existing Martis Drive right of way is located, either in place of or in addition to
the proposed bicycle path along the realigned Martis Drive running through the center of the proposed
project area, be studied. I could not locate the discussion /analysis within the DEIR. There are several
reasons why maintaining a multi - purpose trail along the western boundary of the proposed project, in
the existing ROW, would be beneficial both for the existing residents in the area and for the public at
large:
1) It would provide a sufficient set - back /buffer between the existing Ponderosa Meadows
community and the higher density residential uses proposed for the adjacent area and likewise
a buffer between the proposed residential uses and the existing hotel and commercial uses
along Brockway Road. In addition, it would provide a similar buffer between the Ponderosa
Meadows golf course and residential uses north of there and the proposed light industrial uses
adjacent to them in the specific plan. This would help mitigate building massing, light, shadow,
and noise concerns from these transitional areas of different land uses and densities.
2) Many residents utilize the existing dirt road in the old Martis Road ROW to connect to the City's
regional trail system that runs down along the Truckee River and improving this existing ROW
with a multi -use trail would promote continued use for hiking, biking, etc. While we realize the
bike trail along a re- aligned Martis Road could also connect, it would be along a potentially busy
street in an urbanized area. A hiking and biking trail that is located away from the street would
be safer and much more pleasant to use, providing scenic views out over the golf course. It is
also the shortest connection for the Regional Trail system.
I know that many of my fellow residents in Ponderosa Meadows share our concern that these issues and
ideas be considered and addressed. We thank the Town of Truckee Planning Department for its
consideration on this matter.
Sincerely,
David Stearn
11341 Brockway Road
Truckee, CA 96161