FAQ PART II
>DENSITY
Q: Is this project too dense for Wimberley?
A: No. If we were a typical developer, working under R1 and R2 zoning (such as the zoning that surrounds the site), this site would yield a comparable number or more homes and preserve little in the way of continuous natural area. We are proposing 60 and clustering the homes such that we conserve half the site as a permanent nature preserve. If anything we are way less dense than the code would allow for surrounding properties.
Q: Are the homes too close together?
A: The homes are laid out with plenty of space to provide private outdoor areas and proper daylighting and solar angles. Clustering homes at moderate density along a shared pedestrian garden boulevard helps foster closer community ties and enables us to hit our goal of preserving 50% of the site as dedicated natural area. People are interested in Citaspel for the close community aspect; many people feel isolated in low density surroundings, hardly ever spending time with neighbors. Citaspel offers a different model that seeks to weave a stronger social network, outside social media in the real world.
>ESTHETICS
Q: What will the project look like?
A: We are inspired by the esthetic roots of the Texas Hill Country. We would like to find a modern day expression rooted in Wimberley’s historic palette of shapes and materials, with lots of covered porches, stone and wood. We will be sharing more inspiration images shortly.
>FIT
Q: Does this project fit into Wimberley?
A: Yes, the project is consistent with Wimberley’s long range master plan, in terms of taking creative measures to preserve green space, promote housing choice and the arts. The village plan is inspired by pedestrian-oriented historic villages like those that spawned the European settlers of this region. By pulling together into a closer settlement pattern, we both strengthen community and preserve more continuous greenspace.
>LOCATION
Q: Would this plan be better placed farther out in the country?
A: This site is within the very small area of Wimberley City Limits. We are under two miles from the Square. Placing homes farther away from town actually increases numbers of cars on the road, daily travel distances, traffic noise, air pollution, carbon footprint and traffic congestion.
>LIGHT POLLUTION
Q: How will the development impact light pollution?
A: Citaspel will be a Dark Sky community. Lighting design will be prepared by a professional lighting designer and carefully reviewed to avoid unnecessary glare and light pollution. We are seeking an ambience of quiet glow, not glare.
>TRUST
Q: How can we trust your assurances?
A: In addition to asking for your trust, we are proposing a WPDD rezoning, by which the City of Wimberley will enforce the terms of the development agreement.
>VIEWS
Q: Will the project impact views?
A: The project will change the views of a handful of neighbors, but will not block or obstruct anyone’s view. The residential village will be minimally visible from RR12, if at all. For those neighbors who will be viewing the community, our plan is to consult old world and local history to make a handsome village that evokes positive feelings.
>WILDFIRE
Q: How will you prevent wildfire?
A: We are proposing a new fire station and a number of new fire plugs fed by dedicated fire tanks. Citaspel is offering a prime location to the County Fire Department as a way to give back to the community. The fire station is sorely needed and will benefit the entire area. Also, our landscape architects, working with ecologists, botanists and wildlife biologists will study a sensitive approach to selective brush thinning.