A quick reminder that the City of Bellevue’s Open House on downtown livability proposals is this Tuesday (June 3) from 4:30 to 630pm at Bellevue City Hall. Here are some of my notes from the presentation to Vuecrest by the Fortin Group. Thanks to everyone who participated. · Key points from Fortin Group presentation o Fortin Group shared a vision for redeveloping their properties (QFC shopping center, parking lot and building north of 10th, apartments north of that). They do not own condos and apartments immediately next to 100th. o Brittany Barker, fourth-generation family member of the Fortin Group claimed that the first phase of project wouldn’t begin for 20+ years. [But this was not a formal commitment, so I would proceed assuming that this could happen much sooner.] o Project would build new “flagship” QFC north of 10th, new condos and mixed-use buildings throughout rest of property. o Underground plus short-term street parallel parking will encourage walk-in businesses like dry cleaners as well as restaurants. o Several open/green spaces, wide sidewalks, and pedestrian paths would make space more walkable. o Fortin Group showed different options based on current and proposed height limits. o Fortin Group is not asking for changes in the FAR (Floor Area Ratio). o Fortin Group would build approximately the same amount of square feet no matter what the height limit is, but increased height limit would allow more “air space” between taller, narrower (and potentially fewer) towers. o 300’ limit option was withdrawn by the Livability Committee, but Fortin Group would like one 325’ tower. · Fortin Group work items (confirmed after meeting) o Full modeling of shadow locations/times for the different options to see shadow impact on Vuecrest properties. o 3D rendering of skyline and Cascade view impacts from Hilltop, Vineyard Crest, and Belfair perspectives (current 3D images only show Hilltop) for different height limits o Cross-section view of proposed developments, to show height transition along 10th from 100th to 102nd. o Analysis of privacy impact of various height options. o Be available for second community meeting (after Patti Wilma meeting). · Vuecrest takeaways o Attendees from Belfair voiced strong concerns about impact of raising limit of condos/apartments on 100th from 65’ to 75’. o Shadow impact seems to be next priority- need formal modeling to gauge magnitude of impact (if any). o Upcoming development in Downtown Bellevue will continue to replace views of Cascades with skyline views, even if nearby height limits remain unchanged. o This is a very thoughtful plan, but it is a goal, not a commitment and far in the future. Jonathan Kagle President Vuecrest Community Association www.vuecrest.net