Title
Urban Design Regulation Update
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive the update on urban design regulations. Discussion only.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive an update on the process to develop new design guidelines in accordance with the Downtown Strategy.
Staff Contact:
Amy Buckler, Downtown Programs Manager, Community Planning & Development, (360) 570-5847
Presenter(s):
John Owen, consultant, MAKERS architecture and urban design
Amy Buckler, Downtown Programs Manager
Background and Analysis:
One of the first recommended actions to implement the Downtown Strategy (DTS) is an update to the Downtown design guidelines. These are regulations that help ensure new development and significant rehabs achieve a level of design quality that is consistent with our vision as expressed in our Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Strategy.
Design guidelines address functional as well as aesthetic issues. They influence site design, building orientation, massing, architecture and other building details, as well as historic preservation. They intend for development to be compatible with neighbors; promote safety, security and livability; be environmentally responsible; promote health and pedestrian activity; and upgrade the physical attractiveness of a development.
The City retained MAKERS consultants to assist with updating Downtown design guidelines. At this time, the consultant is reviewing all comments received on a working draft of the update and a public hearing draft is being prepared. At the meeting, Mr. Owen will provide an overview of major changes proposed (attached.) Both the working draft and handouts with further information about proposals for specific topic areas, such as residential open space and historic preservation are at the attached webpage.
Along with the proposed downtown design guideline update, staff will propose view protection measures guided by the Downtown S...
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