Title
Urban Corridors Policy Briefing
Recommended Action
Information only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Briefing on the urban corridors policy, a key regional policy that links the land use and transportation goals in Olympia’s Comprehensive Plan
Staff Contact:
Joyce Phillips, AICP, Planning Manager, Community Planning and Economic Development, 360.570.3722
Michelle Swanson, AICP, Senior Planner, Public Works Transportation, 360.753.8575
Presenter(s):
Michelle Swanson
Background and Analysis:
One of the key purposes of the Comprehensive Plan is to guide how Olympia will respond to growth. The urban corridors policy, described in both the Transportation and Land Use and Urban Design chapters of the Comprehensive Plan, is designed to direct much of the growth within a quarter mile of some existing arterials. Those arterials are the designated urban corridors shown on the attached map.
Staff will describe why these areas have been a priority, the history of the policy, and why it’s important for achieving broader policy goals, including decreasing vehicle miles traveled and making it easier for people to walk, roll, bike, and take transit.
Climate Analysis:
Concentrating growth along these corridors, many of which are served by frequent transit service, will make it easier for many people to meet their needs without having to drive. This reduces vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
Making it easier for people to meet their needs without having to own a vehicle means those who cannot drive, cannot afford to drive, or those who prefer not to drive, have better access to essential services, recreation, employment, and quality of life.
Options:
None - information only
Financial Impact:
None from this briefing
Attachments:
Corridors Map