Planning and Zoning Commissions

City of Slidell, Louisiana Planning Commission Agenda March 20, 2023 at 7:00pm Planning Dept. Conference Room, 250 Bouscaren St, Suite 203, Slidell, LA Agenda packet available at myslidell.com/planning/boards/pz For questions or to provide public comment before the meeting, SCAN ME for the email PZ@cityofslidell.org or call (985) 646-4320 (M-F 8am to 4:30pm) PC website 1. Call to Order and Roll Call 2. Minutes. Approve minutes from February 13, 2023 3. Consent Calendar. The below will be scheduled for a public hearing on April 17, 2023: 4. Public Hearing a. T22-08: A request to amend City of Slidell Bicycle Master Plan, adopted by Ord. 3735 (June 24, 2014), amended by Ord. 4004 (December 8, 2020); to add a Southwest Loop; by City Administration. 5. Other Business 6. General and Public Comments 7. Adjournment The next Planning Commission meeting will be April 17, 2023. Planning Commission Agenda for March 20, 2023 Page 1 of 1  City of Slidell, Louisiana Planning Commission Minutes February 13, 2023 @ 7:00 p.m. City of Slidell Planning Department Conference Room, 250 Bouscaren Street, Suite 203 Slidell, LA 1. Call to Order and Roll Call. Meeting called to order by Chairperson Hilts at 7:00 p.m. Commissioners Present Commissioners Not Present Staff Present Mary Lou Hilts, Chair Michael Newton Danny McElmurray, Planning Director Richard Reardon, Vice Chair Gayle Green Theresa Alexander, Planner Eric Shives Erica Smith, Planning Secretary Lance Grant Landon Washington 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Minutes. Motion by Commissioner Washington to approve minutes of January 9, 2023 as written; Commissioner Grant seconded. A vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN approved the minutes. 4. Introduction – Public hearing set for March 20, 2023: a. T22-08: A request to amend City of Slidell Bicycle Master Plan, adopted by Ord. 3735 (June 24, 2014), amended by Ord. 4004 (December 8, 2020); to add a Southwest Loop; by City Administration. 5. Public Hearing a. A22-08: A request to annex property located along Frank J. Pichon Road, north of Lucille Street; identified as Lots 12, 13, 14, and 15, Square 5, Lake Gardens Subdivision; into the City of Slidell; by Eugene Hotard, HD Land LLC Chairperson Hilts opened the public hearing. Eugene Hotard spoke as owner of the property and wishes to expand land already owned, making a bigger track of land for future development; no plans for building thus far. Director McElmurray gave a staff report recommending approval. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Reardon, seconded by Commissioner Washington. A vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN approved the request. b. A23-01: A request to annex property located along Spanish Court, approximately 200 ft north of Old Spanish Trail; identified as Lots 1 through 10 in Square 2, Central Park Subdivision, Section A; into the City of Slidell; by Walter and Shannon Ybos. Chairperson Hilts opened the public hearing. Paul Mayronne spoke on behalf of Walter and Shannon Ybos. This is property adjacent to the Amazon facility, and it is the intent to bring the property into the City as C-4, extending services that comply with the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Director McElmurray presented the Staff Report, which recommended approval. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Washington, seconded by Commissioner Reardon. A vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN approved the request. Planning Commission Minutes for February 13, 2023 Page 1 of 2 5. Other Business a. Director McElmurray spoke to the Commission about upcoming Zoning Map amendments. 6. General and Public Comments. There were none. 7. Adjournment. Meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m. on motion by Commissioner Washington, seconded by Commissioner Shives, and a vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN. Planning Commission Minutes for February 13, 2023 Page 2 of 2  Staff Report Case No. T22-08 An ordinance amending the Bicycle Master Plan to add a Planning Department Southwest Loop (T22-08) 985.646.4320 | 250 Bouscaren St, Ste 203, Slidell, LA 70458 | planningdept@cityofslidell.org | myslidell.com Location: City of Slidell Applicant: City Administration Request: Amend Planning Commission Public Hearing: March 20, 2023 City Council (tentative) Consent Agenda: March 28, 2023 Public Hearing: April 25, 2023 RECOMMENDATIONS Planning Department Planning Commission Approval To be determined BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY The Slidell City Council recognizes that planning is key to continuing the great quality of life enjoyed by the residents of the City of Slidell. In support of providing alternative transportation for work, exercise, and recreation, the City Council adopted the Bicycle Master Plan by Ordinance No. 3735 on June 24, 2014. Recognizing the benefits bicycle paths can provide to the City and its residents, the Administration challenged the Planning Department to draft a Bicycle Master Plan that would provide a network of interconnected bicycle and pedestrian paths that would provide safe, reliable means of transportation and recreation for the City’s residents and visitors. The main objective identified in the original plan was to layout a comprehensive plan covering as much of the City as practical. These objectives were to identify, prioritize, design, fund and construct individual projects. An additional objective was to provide a flexible framework vice a detailed plan so multiple means of funding can be pursued. This Plan identified seven routes, including a “share the lane” or “widened sidewalk” connection to the Tammany Trace via West Hall Ave, to the southeastern tip of Camp Salmen. On December 8, 2020, the City Council approved an amendment by ordinance (4004) to the existing Bicycle Master Plan by adding route options to include the extension of the Tammany Trace eastward in a former railroad corridor. The Tammany Trace Extension is a continuation to the existing Tammany Trace eastward across Highway 190 in the former railroad corridor toward the center of Slidell and Heritage Park. The crossing of Highway 190 may be achieved by tunnel. Once the trail turns southward toward N Carnation St, the route may continue in the railroad corridor or may continue along local streets or other easements. Planning Commission Page 1 of 5 T22-08 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by D McElmurray SLIDELL 2040 CONCURRENCE: Expanding the Bicycle Master Plan with a Southwest Loop is consistent with the following goals and strategies of the Slidell 2040 plan: • Goal Transportation 1: Improve walkability and bikeability on major arterials through coordination with LA DOTD and NORPC. Improvements to roads and planned land uses should be coordinated. • Strategy Transportation 1-1: Through ongoing coordination with LA DOTD, ensure that major arterials are accessible to bicycles and pedestrians in the core of the city. • Strategy Transportation 1-2: Focus capital improvements on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure expansion, and on congestion management. • Goal Transportation 5: Plan and implement a connected network of bicycle and walking facilities using the city’s parks, green spaces, bayous, and trails. • Strategy Transportation 5-1: Update the Bicycle Master Plan to account for improvements since its creation, and to include pedestrians. • Strategy Infrastructure 8-2: Maintain and rehabilitate existing park facilities. Establish and maintain safe pedestrian and bicycle routes to park facilities from neighborhoods. • Strategy Public Health and Safety 1-1: Improve pedestrian comfort and safety by completing existing streets with sidewalks, safe and frequent crossings, and signalization where appropriate. Provide on- and off-street bicycle facilities, such as trails, lanes, and protected lanes, in a connected network to reduce conflicts between motorists and people biking. Planning Commission Page 2 of 5 T22-08 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by D McElmurray ORIGINAL DOCUMENT: Planning Commission Page 3 of 5 T22-08 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by D McElmurray  Bicycle Master Plan Alternative Transportation for Work, Exercise, and Recreation Morgan Age, Planning Intern, Slidell High School;Stephen Dieck, Planning Intern, Slidell High School;Eric Lundin, Planner City of Slidell Adopted 6/24/2014 Amended 12/08/2020 (Ord. No. 4004) City of Slidell 1 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Table of Contents 1. Introduction- .......................................................................................................................... 3 The Challenge .......................................................................................................................................... 3 Purpose and Goals .................................................................................................................................. 3 2. Methods Available for Bicycle Paths ................................................................................... 3 A. Dedicated Bicycle Path. .................................................................................................................. 4 B. Widened Sidewalk. .......................................................................................................................... 4 C. Street Shoulder. ............................................................................................................................... 4 D. Share the lane. ................................................................................................................................. 4 3. Bicycle Path Concept ............................................................................................................. 5 Overall Concept ...................................................................................................................................... 5 Northern Loop ......................................................................................................................................... 5 Middle Loop ............................................................................................................................................ 7 Southern Loop ......................................................................................................................................... 8 Heritage Park- Camp Salmen Connector ............................................................................................. 9 Bayou Patassat ...................................................................................................................................... 10 Kensington-John Slidell........................................................................................................................ 10 Oak Harbor Connector ........................................................................................................................ 11 Tammany Trace Extension .................................................................................................................. 11 4. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................ 12 City of Slidell 2 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 1. Introduction- The Challenge The City of Slidell is a great place to live, but a bad place to bicycle. The city’s rapid growth from the 1960s through the mid-1980s was car centric and little attention was given to providing for bicycle paths or safe bicycle crossings. Sidewalks are too small, often too close to automobile lanes, and often end abruptly. Except in the oldest parts of the city, the street gird pattern is often disrupted making connectivity between neighborhoods problematic. Many of the main thoroughfares lack a suitable shoulder, if there is one at all, that bicycles can utilize. There is no fixed route public transportation to provide an alternative to automobile travel. Current literature clearly identifies bicycle paths as beneficial to a city and its residents. Bicycles can reduce traffic congestion by providing an alternative means of travel to work, school, and entertainment. Bicycle riding exercises the body, providing for healthier residents. Families can enjoy quality time by riding together. For these reasons and many others, the City of Slidell would benefit from a comprehensive, interconnected bicycle path network. Purpose and Goals The purpose of the City of Slidell’s Bicycle Master Plan is to provide a network of interconnected bicycle and pedestrian paths that would provide a safe, reliable means of transportation and recreation for the city’s residents and visitors. The goals of the bicycle master plan are to provide: 1. A safe alternative means of transportation for residents and visitors to get to and from home, school, work, entertainment, and shopping. 2. Opportunities for residents and visitors to exercise. 3. A safe way for families and individuals to recreate. Some parts of the plan already exist and are in use today. Other parts would not be available for years. Therefore, one the main objectives of this master plan is to layout a comprehensive plan covering as much of the city as practical. The City can then identify, prioritize, design, fund, and construct individual projects. A second objective is to provide a flexible framework vice a detailed plan so that multiple means of funding can be pursued. The key to flexibility will be relying on multiples methods to create a bicycle path and being prepared to change methods if a quicker or less expensive method presents itself. 2. Methods Available for Bicycle Paths Several methods can be used to provide for bicycle paths. City of Slidell 3 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  A. Dedicated Bicycle Path. A stand-a-lone bicycle path separate from vehicle travel lanes, street shoulders, and pedestrian sidewalks. This method is the safest method but most expensive, since it requires land acquisition and construction of paths from the ground up. This method also requires engineering, environmental studies, and dedicated maintenance funds. B. Widened Sidewalk. The sidewalk in the public right-of-way can be widened to include a bicycle path in addition to its normal pedestrian use. Pedestrian and bicycle lanes must be separate to provide for safe use. The benefits of this method are that it separates bicycles from automobile traffic and can be built on existing sidewalk infrastructure. The challenges of this method are that it requires that the public right-of- way be large enough to accommodate both bicycle and pedestrian lanes, and the widening of the sidewalk requires engineering, environmental studies, and dedicated maintenance funds. C. Street Shoulder. If the street shoulder is wide enough it can be striped as a dedicated bicycle lane. The benefits of this method are that it provides for a dedicated bicycle lane on an already constructed road surface. The challenges of this method are that it requires the shoulder be maintained to higher standard than typical road shoulders to provide a smooth surface suitable for bicycles and the shoulder cannot be used for on street parking. Also, while the bicycle lane and automobile travel lanes are separate, there is an increased risk of bicycle and automobile interaction. The risk to bicycles can be mitigated by placing a visual or physical vertical barrier separating bicycle lanes from automobile travel lanes. Examples include concrete barriers or flexible poles with reflective markings. D. Share the lane. Where no shoulder exists and the public right-of-way is limited, bicycles and automobiles can share the vehicle travel lane. To identify the lane’s co-use as a bicycle lane as well as an automobile travel land through the use of striping and bicycle lane symbols. This method relies on bicyclists and automobile drivers knowing and adhering to the state laws protecting bicyclists. The benefits of this method are that it allows bicycle paths in areas where the public right-of-way is limited and it is the least expensive to create and maintain, since a roadway is already provided for automobiles. The challenges of this method are that it places automobiles and bicyclists in same lane, increasing the chance of collisions. As a result, this method should be limited to narrow, little traveled residential streets where the speed limit is already low. A bicycle path may be composed of one or more of above methods, and, over time, a route or route segment can be improved. Initially, the method could be a share the lane. Then, as more resources become available, routes or route segments could be improved into a widened sidewalk or dedicate bicycle path. City of Slidell 4 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 3. Bicycle Path Concept Overall Concept The City’s master bicycle plan consists of three interconnected circular routes—North, Middle, and South—that connect the majority of the City’s neighborhoods and other routes that connect to outlying neighborhoods and regional bicycle paths. The network consists of eight paths with a combined length of about 24 miles of trails (See Map 1) Bicycle Path Approximate Distance Map Northern Loop 7 Miles 2 Middle Loop 4.7 Miles 3 Southern Loop 3 Miles 4 Heritage Park-Camp Salmen 3 Miles 2 Bayou Patassat 1 Mile 2 Kensington-John Slidell Park 1.3 Miles 2 Oak Harbor Connector 0.6 Miles 4 Tammany Trace Extension 4.4 Miles 2 Northern Loop (See Map 2) Length ≈ 7 Miles Description: Loop route that includes neighborhoods in northern portion of the city to include north of Gause Blvd, between Gause Blvd and Fremaux Ave, and south of Fremaux to include Olde Towne and Lincoln Park. Passes by Slidell High, Florida Elementary, Brock Elementary, Slidell Jr. High, and St. Tammany Jr. High. Passes through Possum Hollow Park and intersects with bicycle paths that lead to John Slidell Park and Heritage Park. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commences at Slidell High Near intersection (9th St and Tiger Ave Proceed south down 9th St, to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Gause Blvd Cross Gause Blvd Existing Traffic Add Bicycle- Light Pedestrian signalization and stripping South down 9th St to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Teddy Avenue City of Slidell 5 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Proceed west on Teddy Share the Lane Avenue to intersection with 3rd St/Sgt Alfred Turn south down 3rd St/Sgt Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Alfred, pass by Slidell Jr. High Cross over Fremaux Avenue Existing Traffic Add Bicycle- at 3rd St/Sgt Alfred St traffic Light Pedestrian light signalization and striping Continue south down 3rd North of Fremaux Widened Sidewalk St/Sgt Alfred to intersection Share the lane then with Cousin St Use of Shoulder Fremaux – Cousin: Initially Combination of Share the Lane and Street Shoulder. Turn east down Cousin St Cousin: Share the Cousin: Widened and proceed to Possum lane Sidewalk Hollow Park then through Possum Hollow Possum Hollow Park to far Park: Use existing side exiting onto 6th St trail/path Continue south down 6th St. Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with Daney St Turn east down Daney St. to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Portions of Daney St are intersection with Beth Ave in St Tammany Parish Turn north up Beth to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Shortcut Hwy Cross Shortcut Hwy to get Uncontrolled Bicycle/Pedestrian onto Lakewood crossing Crossing with signalization and striping North up Lakewood Dr to Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Intersection with Gause Blvd Cross Gause Blvd Existing Traffic Add Bicycle- Light Pedestrian signalization and stripping Continue north on Rue Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Rocehelle then Audubon to intersection with Robert Blvd Cross Robert Existing Traffic Add Bicycle- Light Pedestrian signalization and stripping Continue north on North Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Blvd to intersection with Hwy 11 Turn South down Hwy 11 to Un-useable, not Dedicated bicycle Alternative: At intersection with Indiana Ave safe path as part of LA intersection of North Blvd DOTD project to and Melody Dr. turn south expand Hwy 11 down Melody Dr. to City of Slidell 6 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  bridge over rail road intersection with Fountain tracks Dr. then turn East on Fountain Dr. to intersection with Robert Blvd then South down Robert Blvd to Tower Dr then west on Tower Dr. to Joe Buccaron Dr then South on Joe Buccaron to Tiger Dr. then East to 9th St to end point Turn East down Indiana Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Avenue to intersection with 9th Street South down 9th Street to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Slidell High and the end point Middle Loop (See Map 3) Length ≈ 4.7 Miles Description: The Middle Loop connects neighborhoods on both sides of Old Spanish Trail and links the Northern and Southern Loops. The Middle Loop would also connects Fremaux Town Center to the rest of the city. The route begins and ends at Abney Elementary and passes by St. Tammany Jr. High. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commence at Abney Elementary on Kostmayer Proceed west on Kostmayer Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Ave to intersection with Timothy Dr. Turn south down Timothy Dr Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with Thomas Dr Turn onto Thomas Dr. and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk continue south to intersection with Hickory Dr.-Lopez St Turn east on Hickory Dr.- Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Lopez St. to intersection with Faith Dr. Turn north on Faith Dr and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed north to Intersection with Old Spanish Trail Cross Old Spanish trail to Unprotected Traffic light with Town Center Parkway pedestrian/bicycle signalization and striping. Continue north on Town Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Currently no connection Center Parkway to from Town Center Pkwy intersection with Daney St. to Daney St. Turn west on Daney St. and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed to intersection with 6th St City of Slidell 7 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Turn south on 6th St and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed to intersection with Eleanor St Turn east on Eleanor St. and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed east to intersection with Washington Ave Turn south on Washington Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Ave and proceed to intersection with Cleveland Ave. Turn west on Cleveland Ave Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk and proceed to intersection with Lincoln Ave Turn south on Lincoln Ave Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk and proceed to intersection with Pine Tree St Turn northeast on Pine Tree Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk St. and proceed to intersection with Slidell Ave. Turn south on Slidell Ave Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk and proceed to intersection with Old Spanish Trail Cross Old Spanish Trail Existing traffic Add pedestrian- light bicycle signalization to light and stripe crosswalk. Continue south on Slidell Share the Lane Ave to Intersection with Kostmayer Ave and the end point at Abney Elementary Southern Loop (See Map 4) Length ≈ 3 Miles Description: The Southern Loop begins and ends at the Fritchie Park Gym and includes a pike/pedestrian path around a pond in Fritichie Park. The Southern Loop includes the neighborhoods between Pontchartrain Drive, Old Spanish Trail, and the Spartan Dr. and connects to the Middle Loop and the Oak Harbor Connector Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Begin Fritchie Park Gym Proceed through Fritchie Dedicated Park to intersection with Bicycle Path Rama St Proceed up Rama St to Dedicated This portion Rama St was intersection with Hickory Bicycle Path never developed and current Dr-Lopez St. ownership undetermined. Alternative route is  North up West Howze Beach Rd to intersection with Cayo St o Method: Share the Lane City of Slidell 8 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020   Turn West on Cayo St and proceed to intersection with Almonaster St. o Method: Share the lane  Turn North on Almonaster St. and proceed to intersection with Hickory Dr-Lopez St o Method: Share the Lane Turn West on Hickory Dr- Share the Lane Widened Lopez St and proceed to Sidewalk intersection with Oxford St Turn South on Oxford St Share the Lane Widened and proceed to intersection Sidewalk with Westchester Turn West on Westchester Share the Lane Widened and proceed to intersection Sidewalk with Berkley passing by Our Lady of Lourdes School Turn South on Berkley and Share the Lane Widened proceed to intersection with Sidewalk Spartan Dr. Turn East on Spartan Drive Start with Share Dedicated Bicycle and proceed to entrance the Lane then get Path Fritchie Park and End on existing Point, passing by Salmen Dedicated High School en route. Bicycle Path Heritage Park- Camp Salmen Connector (See Map 2) Length ≈ 3 Miles Description: The Heritage Park-Camp Salmen Connector provides a route for neighborhoods along both sides of West Hall Avenue and connects Heritage Park to the city’s center and connects, through Camp Salmen, to The Tammany Trace. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commence Heritage Park Proceed north on Bayou Lane Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with West Hall Ave Turn West on West Hall Ave Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Need to add Bicycle Lane and proceed to intersection to bridge of Bayou with Carroll Road Bonfouca Cross Carroll Road Improved City of Slidell and St. intersection with Tammany Parish already Widened have joint grant to Sidewalk. improve intersection. Proceed East on Garden Dr. Share the Lane to intersection with West Ln City of Slidell 9 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Turn North on West Ln and Share the Lane Dedicated Bicycle proceed to bicycle-pedestrian Path entrance to Camp Salmen the end point. Bayou Patassat (See Map 2) Length ≈ 1 Mile Description: Bayou Patassat path connects Heritage Park with Possum Hollow Park using the Bayou Patassat drainage to pass under Front Street. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Heritage Park Proceed West on Bayou Lane Share the Lane to intersection with Bayou Patassat Turn East into Bayou Patassat Dedicated Bicycle Need to work out where to drainage and cross under Lane cross Bayou Patassat Front St. Bridge and proceed to intersection with Guzman St Proceed East on Guzman St. Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with 4th St Turn North on 4th St and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed to intersection with Dewey Ave Turn East on Dewey Ave and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed to and enter Possum Hollow Park and link into Northern Loop Kensington-John Slidell (See Map 2) Length ≈ 1.3 Miles Description: Kensington-John Slidell is an existing path that connects John Slidell Park with the Kensington Subdivision. A proposed additional segment would connect this path to the Northern Loop using a City of Slidell drainage servitude. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Start at John Slidell Park Existing Dedicated An extension along Gym and follow the bicycle Bicycle Path existing city drainage path to northeast corner system could connect path Kensington Subdivision with Northern Loop  Method: Dedicated Bicycle Path City of Slidell 10 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Oak Harbor Connector (See Map 4) Length ≈ 0.6 Miles Description: The Oak Harbor Connector connects Fritchie Park with the Oak Harbor subdivision and its internal bicycle paths. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commence at Fritchie Park Gym Exit park onto W. Howze Share the Lane on Beach Rd park streets Proceed South down W. Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Howze Beach Rd across canal into back of Oak Harbor Subdivision then tie into existing trail network. Tammany Trace Extension (See Map 2) Length ≈ 4.4 Miles Description: Tammany Trace Extension continues the existing Tammany Trace eastward across Highway 190 in the former railroad corridor toward the center of Slidell and Heritage Park. The crossings of Highway 190 may be by tunnel. Once the trail turns southward around N Carnation St, the route may continue in the railroad corridor or it may continue along local streets or other easements. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Begin at northern end of Heritage Park Proceed north on Bayou Lane Existing Widened This portion overlaps the to northern end of Public Sidewalk Heritage Park-Camp Works parking lot Salmen Connector Proceed north to Gause Blvd Widened Sidewalk Dedicated Bicycle This Share the Lane W, either on local streets or along Bayou Ln, Path adjacent to portion partially overlaps adjacent to railroad W Hall Ave, and S railroad the Heritage Park-Camp Carnation St Salmen Connector Cross Gause Blvd W, either Share the Lane or Tunnel on local streets or adjacent to Add striping and railroad pedestrian-bicycle signalizatioin Proceed north to Strawberry Widened Sidewalk Dedicated Bicycle Alternative: Other local St, either on local streets or along N Carnation Path adjacent to streets, such as N adjacent to railroad St and Strawberry railroad Carnation St to the former St railroad corridor Proceed north and west to Dedicated Bicycle Highway 190 Path Cross Highway 190 to Improved crossing Tunnel existing Tammany Trace, the end point City of Slidell 11 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 4. Conclusion The City of Slidell will benefit from a comprehensive interconnected bicycle network. It will reduce traffic congestion, improve health, and enhance quality of life. Providing a comprehensive, interconnected bicycle network is a long and expensive undertaking. Implementation requires long-range vision, prioritization, perseverance, and detailed planning. This Bicycle Master Plan is intended to provide the long-range vision and a framework from which to identify, prioritize, design, fund, and build bicycle paths to meet Slidell’s future needs. City of Slidell 12 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Map 1: Master City of Slidell 13 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Map 2: Northern Loop City of Slidell 14 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Map 3: Middle Loop City of Slidell 15 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020  Map 4: Southern Loop City of Slidell 16 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 PROPOSED AMENDED DOCUMENT: Planning Commission Page 4 of 5 T22-08 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by D McElmurray  Bicycle Master Plan Alternative Transportation for Work, Exercise, and Recreation Morgan Age, Planning Intern, Slidell High School; Stephen Dieck, Planning Intern, Slidell High School; Eric Lundin, Planner City of Slidell Adopted 6/24/2014 Amended 12/08/2020 (Ord. No. 4004) Amended _______ (Ord. No. _____) City of Slidell 1 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ City of Slidell Bicycle Master Plan Table of Contents 1. Introduction- .......................................................................................................................... 3 The Challenge...................................................................................................................................... 3 Purpose and Goals .............................................................................................................................. 3 2. Methods Available for Bicycle Paths ................................................................................... 3 A. Dedicated Bicycle Path. ................................................................................................................. 3 B. Widened Sidewalk. ......................................................................................................................... 4 C. Street Shoulder. .............................................................................................................................. 4 D. Share the lane. ................................................................................................................................ 4 3. Bicycle Path Concept............................................................................................................. 5 Overall Concept .................................................................................................................................. 5 Northern Loop .................................................................................................................................... 6 Middle Loop ........................................................................................................................................ 8 Southern Loop ..................................................................................................................................... 9 Heritage Park- Camp Salmen Connector ....................................................................................... 10 Bayou Patassat .................................................................................................................................. 10 Kensington-John Slidell ................................................................................................................... 11 Oak Harbor Connector .................................................................................................................... 11 Tammany Trace Extension .............................................................................................................. 12 Southwest Loop ................................................................................................................................. 13 4. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................ 13 Map 1: Overall Concept ............................................................................................................. 14 Map 2: Northern Loop ............................................................................................................... 15 Map 3: Middle Loop ................................................................................................................. 136 Map 4: Southern Loop.............................................................................................................. 137 City of Slidell 2 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ 1. Introduction- The Challenge The City of Slidell is a great place to live, but a bad place to bicycle. The city’s rapid growth from the 1960s through the mid-1980s was car centric and little attention was given to providing for bicycle paths or safe bicycle crossings. Sidewalks are too small, often too close to automobile lanes, and often end abruptly. Except in the oldest parts of the city, the street gird pattern is often disrupted making connectivity between neighborhoods problematic. Many of the main thoroughfares lack a suitable shoulder, if there is one at all, that bicycles can utilize. There is no fixed route public transportation to provide an alternative to automobile travel. Current literature clearly identifies bicycle paths as beneficial to a city and its residents. Bicycles can reduce traffic congestion by providing an alternative means of travel to work, school, and entertainment. Bicycle riding exercises the body, providing for healthier residents. Families can enjoy quality time by riding together. For these reasons and many others, the City of Slidell would benefit from a comprehensive, interconnected bicycle path network. Purpose and Goals The purpose of the City of Slidell’s Bicycle Master Plan is to provide a network of interconnected bicycle and pedestrian paths that would provide a safe, reliable means of transportation and recreation for the city’s residents and visitors. The goals of the bicycle master plan are to provide: 1. A safe alternative means of transportation for residents and visitors to get to and from home, school, work, entertainment, and shopping. 2. Opportunities for residents and visitors to exercise. 3. A safe way for families and individuals to recreate. Some parts of the plan already exist and are in use today. Other parts would not be available for years. Therefore, one the main objectives of this master plan is to layout a comprehensive plan covering as much of the city as practical. The City can then identify, prioritize, design, fund, and construct individual projects. A second objective is to provide a flexible framework vice a detailed plan so that multiple means of funding can be pursued. The key to flexibility will be relying on multiples methods to create a bicycle path and being prepared to change methods if a quicker or less expensive method presents itself. 2. Methods Available for Bicycle Paths Several methods can be used to provide for bicycle paths: A. Dedicated Bicycle Path. A stand-a-lone bicycle path separate from vehicle travel lanes, street shoulders, and pedestrian sidewalks. This method is the safest method but most City of Slidell 3 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________  expensive, since it requires land acquisition and construction of paths from the ground up. This method also requires engineering, environmental studies, and dedicated maintenance funds. B. Widened Sidewalk. The sidewalk in the public right-of-way can be widened to include a bicycle path in addition to its normal pedestrian use. Pedestrian and bicycle lanes must be separate to provide for safe use. The benefits of this method are that it separates bicycles from automobile traffic and can be built on existing sidewalk infrastructure. The challenges of this method are that it requires that the public right-of-way be large enough to accommodate both bicycle and pedestrian lanes, and the widening of the sidewalk requires engineering, environmental studies, and dedicated maintenance funds. C. Street Shoulder. If the street shoulder is wide enough it can be striped as a dedicated bicycle lane. The benefits of this method are that it provides for a dedicated bicycle lane on an already constructed road surface. The challenges of this method are that it requires the shoulder be maintained to higher standard than typical road shoulders to provide a smooth surface suitable for bicycles and the shoulder cannot be used for on street parking. Also, while the bicycle lane and automobile travel lanes are separate, there is an increased risk of bicycle and automobile interaction. The risk to bicycles can be mitigated by placing a visual or physical vertical barrier separating bicycle lanes from automobile travel lanes. Examples include concrete barriers or flexible poles with reflective markings. D. Share the lane. Where no shoulder exists and the public right-of-way is limited, bicycles and automobiles can share the vehicle travel lane. To identify the lane’s co-use as a bicycle lane as well as an automobile travel land through the use of striping and bicycle lane symbols. This method relies on bicyclists and automobile drivers knowing and adhering to the state laws protecting bicyclists. The benefits of this method are that it allows bicycle paths in areas where the public right-of-way is limited and it is the least expensive to create and maintain, since a roadway is already provided for automobiles. The challenges of this method are that it places automobiles and bicyclists in same lane, increasing the chance of collisions. As a result, this method should be limited to narrow, little traveled residential streets where the speed limit is already low. A bicycle path may be composed of one or more of above methods, and, over time, a route or route segment can be improved. Initially, the method could be a share the lane. Then, as more resources become available, routes or route segments could be improved into a widened sidewalk or dedicate bicycle path. City of Slidell 4 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ 3. Bicycle Path Concept Overall Concept The City’s master bicycle plan consists of three interconnected circular routes—North, Middle, and South—that connect the majority of the City’s neighborhoods and other routes that connect to outlying neighborhoods and regional bicycle paths. The network consists of eight paths with a combined length of about 24 miles of trails (See Map 1) Bicycle Path Approximate Distance Map Numbers Northern Loop 7 Miles 1, 2 Middle Loop 4.7 Miles 1, 3 Southern Loop 3 Miles 1, 4 Heritage Park-Camp Salmen 3 Miles 1, 2 Bayou Patassat 1 Mile 1, 2 Kensington-John Slidell Park 1.3 Miles 1, 2 Oak Harbor Connector 0.6 Miles 1, 4 Tammany Trace Extension 4.4 Miles 1, 2 Southwest Loop 2.2 Miles 1, 2, 4 City of Slidell 5 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Northern Loop (See Maps 1 & 2) Length ≈ 7 Miles Description: Loop route that includes neighborhoods in northern portion of the city to include north of Gause Blvd, between Gause Blvd and Fremaux Ave, and south of Fremaux to include Olde Towne and Lincoln Park. Passes by Slidell High, Florida Elementary, Brock Elementary, Slidell Jr. High, and St. Tammany Jr. High. Passes through Possum Hollow Park and intersects with bicycle paths that lead to John Slidell Park and Heritage Park. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commences at Slidell High Near intersection (9th St and Tiger Ave Proceed south down 9th St, to Share the Lane Widened intersection with Gause Blvd Sidewalk Cross Gause Blvd Existing Traffic Light Existing Complete. Pedestrian Pedestrian signalization and striping signalization and updated in 2022. striping South down 9th St to intersection Share the Lane Widened with Teddy Avenue Sidewalk Proceed west on Teddy Avenue to Share the Lane intersection with 3rd St/Sgt Alfred Turn south down 3rd St/Sgt Alfred, Share the Lane Widened pass by Slidell Jr. High Sidewalk Cross over Fremaux Avenue at 3rd Existing Traffic Light Add Bicycle- St/Sgt Alfred St traffic light Pedestrian signalization and striping Continue south down 3rd St/Sgt North of Fremaux Widened Alfred to intersection with Cousin St Share the lane then Sidewalk Use of Shoulder Fremaux – Cousin: Initially Combination of Share the Lane and Street Shoulder. Turn east down Cousin St and Cousin: Share the lane Cousin: Widened proceed to Possum Hollow Park then Possum Hollow Park: Sidewalk through Possum Hollow Park to far Use existing trail/path side exiting onto 6th St Continue south down 6th St. to Share the Lane Widened intersection with Daney St Sidewalk Turn east down Daney St. to Share the Lane Widened Portions of Daney St are intersection with Beth Ave Sidewalk in St Tammany Parish Turn north up Beth to intersection Share the Lane Widened with Shortcut Hwy Sidewalk Cross Shortcut Hwy to get onto Uncontrolled crossing Bicycle/Pedestrian Lakewood Crossing with signalization and striping North up Lakewood Dr to Street Shoulder Widened Intersection with Gause Blvd Sidewalk Cross Gause Blvd Existing Traffic Light Add Bicycle- Pedestrian City of Slidell 6 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________  signalization and stripping Continue north on Rue Rochelle then Street Shoulder Widened Audubon to intersection with Robert Sidewalk Blvd Cross Robert Existing Traffic Light Add Bicycle- Pedestrian signalization and stripping Continue north on North Blvd to Street Shoulder Widened intersection with Hwy 11 Sidewalk Turn South down Hwy 11 to Un-useable, not safe Dedicated bicycle Alternative: At intersection with Indiana Ave path as part of LA intersection of North DOTD project to Blvd and Melody Dr. turn expand Hwy 11 south down Melody Dr. bridge over rail to intersection with road tracks Fountain Dr. then turn East on Fountain Dr. to intersection with Robert Blvd then South down Robert Blvd to Tower Dr then west on Tower Dr. to Joe Buccaron Dr then South on Joe Buccaron to Tiger Dr. then East to 9th St to end point Turn East down Indiana Avenue to Share the Lane Widened intersection with 9th Street Sidewalk South down 9th Street to Slidell High Share the Lane Widened and the end point Sidewalk City of Slidell 7 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Middle Loop (See Maps 1 & 3) Length ≈ 4.7 Miles Description: The Middle Loop connects neighborhoods on both sides of Old Spanish Trail and links the Northern and Southern Loops. The Middle Loop would also connects Fremaux Town Center to the rest of the city. The route begins and ends at Abney Elementary and passes by St. Tammany Jr. High. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commence at Abney Elementary on Kostmayer Proceed west on Kostmayer Ave to Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk intersection with Timothy Dr. Turn south down Timothy Dr to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Thomas Dr Turn onto Thomas Dr. and continue south Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with Hickory Dr.-Lopez St Turn east on Hickory Dr.-Lopez St. to Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk intersection with Faith Dr. Turn north on Faith Dr and proceed north Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to Intersection with Old Spanish Trail Cross Old Spanish trail to Town Center Unprotected Traffic light with Parkway pedestrian/bicycle signalization and striping. Continue north on Town Center Parkway Street Shoulder Widened Sidewalk Currently no connection to intersection with Daney St. from Town Center Pkwy to Daney St. Turn west on Daney St. and proceed to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with 6th St Turn south on 6th St and proceed to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Eleanor St Turn east on Eleanor St. and proceed east Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with Washington Ave Turn south on Washington Ave and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed to intersection with Cleveland Ave. Turn west on Cleveland Ave and proceed Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with Lincoln Ave Turn south on Lincoln Ave and proceed Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to intersection with Pine Tree St Turn northeast on Pine Tree St. and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk proceed to intersection with Slidell Ave. Turn south on Slidell Ave and proceed to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Old Spanish Trail Cross Old Spanish Trail Existing traffic Add pedestrian- light bicycle signalization to light and stripe crosswalk. Continue south on Slidell Ave to Share the Lane Intersection with Kostmayer Ave and the end point at Abney Elementary City of Slidell 8 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Southern Loop (See Maps 1 & 4) Length ≈ 3 Miles Description: The Southern Loop begins and ends at the Fritchie Park Gym and includes a bike/pedestrian path around a pond in Fritchie Park. The Southern Loop includes the neighborhoods between Pontchartrain Drive, Old Spanish Trail, and the Spartan Dr. and connects to the Middle Loop and the Oak Harbor Connector Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Begin Fritchie Park Gym Proceed through Fritchie Park to Dedicated intersection with Rama St Bicycle Path Proceed up Rama St to intersection Dedicated This portion Rama St was with Hickory Dr-Lopez St. Bicycle Path never developed and current ownership undetermined. Alternative route is • North up West Howze Beach Rd to intersection with Cayo St Method: Share the Lane • Turn West on Cayo St and proceed to intersection with Almonaster St. Method: Share the lane • Turn North on Almonaster St. and proceed to intersection with Hickory Dr-Lopez St Method: Share the Lane Turn West on Hickory Dr-Lopez St Share the Lane Widened and proceed to intersection with Sidewalk Oxford St Turn South on Oxford St and Share the Lane Widened proceed to intersection with Sidewalk Westchester Turn West on Westchester and Share the Lane Widened proceed to intersection with Berkley Sidewalk passing by Our Lady of Lourdes School Turn South on Berkley and proceed Share the Lane Widened to intersection with Spartan Dr. Sidewalk Turn East on Spartan Drive and Start with Share Dedicated Bicycle proceed to entrance Fritchie Park the Lane then get Path and End Point, passing by Salmen on existing High School en route. Dedicated Bicycle Path City of Slidell 9 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Heritage Park- Camp Salmen Connector (See Maps 1 & 2) Length ≈ 3 Miles Description: The Heritage Park-Camp Salmen Connector provides a route for neighborhoods along both sides of West Hall Avenue and connects Heritage Park to the city’s center and connects, through Camp Salmen, to The Tammany Trace. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commence Heritage Park Proceed north on Bayou Lane to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with West Hall Ave Turn West on West Hall Ave and Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Need to add Bicycle Lane proceed to intersection with Carroll to bridge of Bayou Road Bonfouca Cross Carroll Road Existing Improved Complete. St Tammany intersection with Parish improved crossing Widened in 2017. Sidewalk. Proceed East on Garden Dr. to Share the Lane intersection with West Ln Turn North on West Ln and proceed to Share the Lane Dedicated Bicycle bicycle-pedestrian entrance to Camp Path Salmen the end point. Bayou Patassat (See Maps 1 & 2) Length ≈ 1 Mile Description: Bayou Patassat path connects Heritage Park with Possum Hollow Park using the Bayou Patassat drainage to pass under Front Street. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Heritage Park Proceed West on Bayou Lane to Share the Lane intersection with Bayou Patassat Turn East into Bayou Patassat drainage Dedicated Bicycle Need to work out where to and cross under Front St. Bridge and Lane cross Bayou Patassat proceed to intersection with Guzman St Proceed East on Guzman St. to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with 4th St Turn North on 4th St and proceed to Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk intersection with Dewey Ave Turn East on Dewey Ave and proceed Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk to and enter Possum Hollow Park and link into Northern Loop City of Slidell 10 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Kensington-John Slidell (See Maps 1 & 2) Length ≈ 1.3 Miles Description: Kensington-John Slidell is an existing path that connects John Slidell Park with the Kensington Subdivision. Proposed additional segments would connect this path to the Northern Loop using a City of Slidell drainage servitude, and connect to Gause Blvd (Hwy 190). Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Start at John Slidell Park Gym and follow Existing Dedicated Complete. the bicycle path to northeast corner Bicycle Path Kensington Subdivision Extension along existing city drainage Dedicated Bicycle Could connect existing Path path to Northern Loop Extension to include: Would connect existing • Continue south on Nickel Lp • Share the Lane path to Gause Blvd (Hwy • Turn Kensington Ln and continue • Dedicated Bike 190). west to Kensington Blvd Path • Turn at Kensington Blvd and • Dedicated Bike continue south to Gause Blvd path Oak Harbor Connector (See Maps 1 & 4) Length ≈ 0.6 Miles Description: The Oak Harbor Connector connects Fritchie Park with the Oak Harbor subdivision and its internal bicycle paths. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Commence at Fritchie Park Gym Exit park onto W. Howze Beach Rd Share the Lane on park streets Proceed South down W. Howze Beach Share the Lane Widened Sidewalk Rd across canal into back of Oak Harbor Subdivision then tie into existing trail network. City of Slidell 11 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Tammany Trace Extension (See Maps 1 & 2) Length ≈ 4.4 Miles Description: Tammany Trace Extension continues the existing Tammany Trace eastward across Highway 190 in the former railroad corridor toward the center of Slidell and Heritage Park. The crossings of Highway 190 may be by tunnel. Once the trail turns southward around N Carnation St, the route may continue in the railroad corridor or it may continue along local streets or other easements. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Begin on Pennsylvania Ave, east of Front St (Hwy 11) Cross Front St (Hwy 11) Improved crossing Proceed west on Pennsylvania Ave to Share the Lane Dedicated Bicycle Bayou Ln Path Proceed north on Bayou Lane to Existing Widened Complete. This portion northern end of Public Works parking Sidewalk overlaps the Heritage lot Park-Camp Salmen Connector Proceed north to Gause Blvd W, either Widened Sidewalk Dedicated Bicycle This portion partially on local streets or adjacent to railroad along Bayou Ln, W Path adjacent to overlaps the Heritage Hall Ave, and S railroad Park-Camp Salmen Carnation St Connector Cross Gause Blvd W, either on local Share the Lane or Tunnel streets or adjacent to railroad Add striping and pedestrian-bicycle signalization Proceed north to Strawberry St, either Widened Sidewalk Dedicated Bicycle Alternative: Other local on local streets or adjacent to railroad along N Carnation Path adjacent to streets, such as N St and Strawberry railroad Carnation St to the former St railroad corridor Proceed north and west to Highway Dedicated Bicycle 190 Path Cross Highway 190 to existing Improved crossing Tunnel Tammany Trace, the end point City of Slidell 12 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ Southwest Loop (See Maps 1, 2, & 4) Length ≈ 2.2 Miles Description: The Southwest Loop connects the Bayou Patassat Loop with the Southern Loop, providing connections for the Palm Lake, Lee Street, and Dellwood neighborhoods. Route Method Notes Initial Long Term Begin at Bayou Patassat crossing Pedestrian Bridge Proceed south to Cleveland Ave Dedicated Bicycle This portion requires an Path easement Proceed southwest on Cleveland Ave Share the Lane Dedicated Bicycle Path adjacent to roadway Cross Bayou Liberty (Hwy 433) Improved crossing Tunnel or Pedestrian Overpass Proceed east on Bayou Liberty (Hwy Dedicated Bicycle 433) Path adjacent to roadway Turn at Front St, continue south to Sun Dedicated Bicycle Valley Dr Path Continue east on Sun Valley Dr Widened Sidewalk Cross Pontchartrain Dr (Hwy 11) Improved crossing Continue east on Westchester Pl to Widened Sidewalk Berkley St, the end point 4. Conclusion The City of Slidell will benefit from a comprehensive interconnected bicycle network. It will reduce traffic congestion, improve health, and enhance quality of life. Providing a comprehensive, interconnected bicycle network is a long and expensive undertaking. Implementation requires long-range vision, prioritization, perseverance, and detailed planning. This Bicycle Master Plan is intended to provide the long-range vision and a framework from which to identify, prioritize, design, fund, and build bicycle paths to meet Slidell’s future needs. City of Slidell 13 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________  Map 1: Overall Concept City of Slidell 14 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________  Map 2: Northern Loop City of Slidell 15 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________  Map 3: Middle Loop City of Slidell 16 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________  Map 4: Southern Loop City of Slidell 17 Adopted 6/24/2014 Bicycle Master Plan Amended 12/08/2020 Amended ________ FINDING: This amendment to the Slidell Bicycle Master Plan includes minor punctuation and text revisions and the addition of a Southwest Loop, creating an access way for the people of the Palm Lake area and others on the west side of the railroad tracks to reach the greater bicycle trail network. This loop is approximately 2.2 miles and is being sponsored by Councilperson DiSanti. The addition of the Southwest Loop will create pathways for citizens and pedestrians to travel from the St Tammany Trace to the southernmost parts of the City. RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Department recommends the Planning and Zoning Commissions approve the requested amendment recognizing the Southwest Loop as part of the City of Slidell Bicycle Master Plan. Planning Commission Page 5 of 5 T22-08 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by D McElmurray  City of Slidell, Louisiana Zoning Commission Agenda March 20, 2023 immediately after Planning Commission at 7:00pm Planning Dept. Conference Room, 250 Bouscaren St, Suite 203, Slidell, LA Agenda packet available at myslidell.com/planning/boards/pz For questions or to provide public comment before the meeting, SCAN ME for the email PZ@cityofslidell.org or call (985) 646-4320 (M-F 8am to 4:30pm) ZC website 1. Call to Order and Roll Call 2. Minutes. Approve minutes from February 13, 2023 3. Consent Calendar. The below will be scheduled for a public hearing on April 17, 2023: a. Z23-03: A request to establish zoning classification for property located along Terrace Avenue and Rama Drive, containing approximately 47.8 acres inclusive of Parish outparcels. (Delayed per request of Planning Director) 4. Public Hearing a. T22-07: An ordinance amending Chapter 16, Article V of the City’s Code of Ordinances to add provisions that, subject to certain exceptions, prohibit the parking of vehicles on surfaces that are not all-weather surfaces. 5. Other Business 6. General and Public Comments 7. Adjournment The next Zoning Commission meeting will be April 17, 2023. Zoning Commission Agenda for March 20, 2023 Page 1 of 1  City of Slidell, Louisiana Zoning Commission Minutes February 13, 2023 immediately after Planning Commission at 7:00pm City of Slidell Planning Department Conference Room, 250 Bouscaren St, Suite 203 Slidell, LA 1. Call to Order and Roll Call. Meeting called to order by Chairperson Hilts at 7:35 p.m. Commissioners Present Commissioners Not Present Staff Present Mary Lou Hilts, Chair Gayle Green Danny McElmurray, Planning Director Richard Reardon, Vice Chair Michael Newton Theresa Alexander, Planner Eric Shives Erica Smith, Planning Secretary Lance Grant Landon Washington 2. Minutes. Motion by Commissioner Washington to approve minutes of January 9, 2023 as written; Commissioner Grant seconded. A vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN approved the minutes. 3. Consent Calendar The below items will be scheduled for a public hearing on March 20, 2023 a. T22-07: An ordinance amending Chapter 16, Article V of the City’s Code of Ordinances to add provisions that, subject to certain exceptions, prohibit the parking of vehicles on surfaces that are not all-weather surfaces. b. Z23-03: A request to establish zoning classification for property located along Terrace Avenue and Rama Drive, containing approximately 47.8 acres inclusive of Parish outparcels. Commissioner Reardon made a motion to approve, with a second by Commissioner Washington. Motion passed by a vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN. These items will be on Public Hearing on March 20, 2023. 4. Public Hearing a. Z22-10: A request to establish the zoning classification of property petitioned for annexation (A22- 08), located along Frank J. Pichon Road, north of Lucille Street; identified as Lots 12, 13, 14, and 15, Square 5, Lake Gardens Subdivision; as C-4 Highway Commercial. Chair Hilts introduced the zoning request. There were no questions or comments, as this was previously discussed during the Planning Commission meeting. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Grant, seconded by Commissioner Shives. A vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN approved the request. b. Z23-02: A request to establish the zoning classification of property petitioned for annexation (A23- 01), located along Spanish Court, approximately 200 ft north of Old Spanish Trail; identified as Lots 1 through 10 in Square 2, Central Park Subdivision, Section A; as C-4 Highway Commercial. Chair Hilts introduced the zoning request. There were no comments or questions, as this was discussed during the Planning meeting. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Shives, seconded by Commissioner Washington. A vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN approved the request. Zoning Commission Minutes for February 13, 2023 Page 1 of 2 5. Other Business a. None 6. General and Public Comments. There were none. 7. Adjournment. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. on motion by Commissioner Reardon, seconded by Commissioner Washington, and a vote of 5 YAYS, 0 NAYS, 0 ABSTAIN. Zoning Commission Minutes for February 13, 2023 Page 2 of 2 An ordinance to amend Appendix A Part 4 of the city’s Code of Ordinances to add provisions that, subject to certain exceptions, prohibit the parking of vehicles on vacant lots on surfaces that are not all-weather surfaces. WHEREAS, instances of residents, property owners, and visitors parking vehicles on undeveloped lots in residential neighborhoods appear to be increasing, to the detriment of adjacent property owners; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to amend the Code of Ordinances in an effort to reduce such occurrences by more clearly restricting parking on surfaces that are not all- weather surfaces; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to clarify vehicle parking and storage are not allowed on vacant lots, undeveloped lots, or lots without a principal structure. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council that it does hereby amend the City’s Code of Ordinances within existing Part 4 of Appendix A of the Code, to read as follows: APPENDIX A PART 4. – OFF-STREET AUTOMOBILE PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS. 4.104. In all residential zoning districts, the following applies to off-street parking of vehicles, recreational vehicles, trailers, and boats: (i) No person shall cause or allow any vehicle to be stopped or parked on any lot that does not have a principal structure, except when said vehicle is stopped or parked on a properly permitted all-weather surface; in no event shall grass, sod, vegetation, dirt, clay, or sand be considered an all-weather surface. This ordinance shall be effective upon adoption. Adopted this __ day of ____________, 2023.  STAFF REPORT Case No. T22-07 Residential Parking on Vacant Properties Planning Department 985.646.4320 | 250 Bouscaren St, Ste 203, Slidell, LA 70458 | planningdept@cityofslidell.org | myslidell.com Petitioner(s): Administration Planning & Zoning Commissions Zoning: All Residential Districts Consent Agenda: February 13, 2023 Request: Amend City Code of Ordinances, Public Hearing: March 20, 2023 Part 4 – Off-street Parking Regulations City Council (tentative) Location: City Wide Consent Agenda: April 11, 2023 Public Hearing: May 9, 2023 RECOMMENDATIONS: Planning Department Planning & Zoning Approval To Be Determined 1. Findings. The City of Slidell Ordinances, specifically Appendix A, Part 4, provides regulations for parking throughout the City. These ordinances identify where and how vehicles are to be kept on private property. The ordinances provide that all required parking is to be on hard surface within a residential property’s front yard. Section 4.104 provides that vehicles, including recreational vehicles, trailers, and boats, can be parked on a residential lot within a side or rear yard meeting the requirements outlined in this section. Parking of any vehicle on a property that does not have a principal structure, therefore having no front, side, or rear yards, is prohibited. 2. Background. It has become an increasing issue in some residential districts where residents, property owners, and visitors are parking their vehicles, recreational vehicles, trailers and boats on undeveloped properties. The parking of these vehicles creates a nuisance to adjacent property owners. 3. Slidell 2040 Concurrence. • Infrastructure Action Item 6: Impose limitation on impervious surfaces to reduce the burden on stormwater management facilities and to minimize the risks to people and property. • Housing Action Item 1: Update development regulations to improve context sensitivity by allowing compatible mix of residential and non-residential uses and compatible land use transitions that consider neighborhood norms and guidance on the use of buffers, design transitions, building scale and other factors. • Housing Action Item 9: Continue to enforce Property Maintenance Code and respond to calls about housing quality issues. 4. Proposed Ordinance. To provide a clearer regulation for parking vehicles on vacant properties, the proposed ordinance provides provisions that, with certain exceptions, the parking of any vehicle on vacant lots is prohibited. The exceptions are that parking on any lot that does not have a principal structure on it can only occur if the parking is on a properly permitted all-weather surface. In no case will grass, sod, vegetation, dirt, clay, or sand be considered an all-weather surface. ZC Page 1 of 2 T22-07 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by T Alexander 5. Recommendation. The Administration recommends the City Council approve the proposed ordinance to amend Appendix A: Zoning, Part 4: Off-Street Automobile Parking and Loading Regulations, Section 4.104 to include: (i) No person shall cause or allow any vehicle to be stopped or parked on any lot that does not have a principal structure, except when said vehicle is stopped or parked on a properly permitted all- weather surface; in no event shall grass, sod, vegetation, dirt, clay, or sand be considered an all- weather surface. ZC Page 2 of 2 T22-07 Distributed March 8, 2023 Prepared by T Alexander