Wednesday, July 14, 2004

Elkhorn deliberations continue

Developer seeks master plan approval

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By MEGAN THOMAS
Express Staff Writer

The Sun Valley City Planning and Zoning Commission continued to deliberate the redevelopment of the former Elkhorn Resort property Tuesday, July 13. During the public hearing, the commission revisited the master plan to develop the 11-acre parcel owned by CG-Elkhorn a Connecticut- and Chicago-based investment group, which includes Ketchum-based partner David Hennessy.

David Hennessy, left, and Doug Clemens present the master plan for Elkhorn Springs. Express photo by Willy Cook

The commission made significant headway to approve the master plan, but decided to reconsider an amended master plan later in the month.

The commission will address the design review of phase one of the project 9 a.m. Thursday, July 15.

Developer CG-Elkhorn has named the project Elkhorn Springs, which will include residential, commercial and public amenities.

The original plans for Elkhorn Springs were submitted to the city in November 2003. During this week’s meeting, CG-Elkhorn project manager Hennessy pointed out it was the sixth time the company had brought the master plan to the commission.

Because the city of Sun Valley does not have a formal procedure to review and approve master plans, approval has been an extended process.

The commissioners commented on their desire to approve the master plan and emphasized the importance of carefully examining the plan.

The goal of the master plan is to "set up a template and then get the details into the design review," commissioner John Gaeddert explained.

The commission considered the impact of building location and uses, in addition to other issues such as parking, open space and environmental concerns.

After considering the suggestions made by Jack Cloud, community development director, and the police and fire departments, the commission concluded the master plan needed further additions. Requests were made to include accompanying narrative to the renderings and other specifics such as a park for children.

Commissioner Virginia Egger also suggested a public education forum should be held in order to alleviate transportation impacts on Ketchum.

Hennessy indicated CG-Elkhorn would incorporate the amendments in order to continue to keep the plan moving.

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