Aspen Grove's location within walking distance of Northstar's New Village is one of the most desirable in the North Lake Tahoe region. While the community is over 25 years old and is showing its age, the opportunity exists to make improvements to both the buildings and site infrastructure. Described below are suggested improvements that the Members may want to consider. These improvements are depicted by the quick sketches that follow.
| 1) |
Replacement of Windows
The windows of many units are worn-out. At a minimum, this required improvement provides an opportunity to improve project appearance with the installation of different windows and trim. "Craftsman" style mullions and/or window frames with color (green or burnt umber, for example) are popular choices.
See Figure 1A and Figure 1B |
| 2) |
Replacement of Building Siding Material
The diagonal siding could be replaced with shingles, lap siding, vertical siding or a combination thereof. Consideration should be given to using a synthetic material which will be resistant to weather (and woodpecker) damage. Lighter colors and slightly varying stain colors from building to building may also be desirable.
See Figure 2A and Figure 2B |
| 3) |
Replacement of all Deck Railing Pickets
Replacing wooden pickets on the rear and entry decks with woven wire would present a more contemporary appearance.
See Figure 3 |
| Site Improvements |
| 4) |
Strategic Landscaping
Barren areas, steep slope banks, dumpster locations and buildings with substantial exposed masonry block would benefit from the planting of native plant materials.
See Figure 4 |
| 5) |
Parking Lot Size Mitigation
Landscaping could be added to the larger parking areas to, in effect create many smaller car clusters (this is what was called for in the original plans). When used properly, the landscaping would reduce traffic speed.
See Figure 5 |
| 6) |
Signing
Community Identity Signs
Community identity could be placed along Northstar Drive depicting the Aspen Grove community name as well as the street names Aspen Grove and Silverstrike.
See Figure 6
Other Signing/Locator Map
Smaller directional signs could be provided to guide visitors to the Village trail. Additionally, a community map with house numbers could be provided at each project entry. |
| 7) |
Lighting
Many visitors (especially in winter) arrive at night. A hierarchy of vehicular and pedestrian lighting could be installed to reduce light pollution (by directing light downward), add to safety and convenience and make a positive impression with visitors.
See Figure 7A and Figure 7B |
| 8) |
Trash enclosures
As originally planned, the trash enclosures were to be partially screened by vegetation. A solid masonry enclosure, which could be softened with landscaping, would present a neat and orderly appearance for this necessary site fixture.
See Figure 8 |
| 9) |
Bus Shelters
Bus shelters could be constructed to provide an identifiable meeting point and shelter from snow and summer sun. The shelter might be a good location for the community locator map.
See Figure 9 |
| 10) |
Pavement Edges
Snow-melt run-off is adding to the deterioration of the asphalt paving. The runoff could be intercepted with attractive rock drainage swales while, at the same time, provide an attractive transition between pavement and natural landscape areas.
See Figure 10A |
