Title
Scenic Views and Waterfront
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Discuss and provide guidance on language to be included in the draft Comprehensive Plan.
Report
Issue:
Should the goal and policies of the Draft Comprehensive Plan addressing scenic views (GL8 and its policies) be revised?
Staff Contact:
Todd Stamm, Principal Planner, Community Planning and Development Department, 360.753.8597.
Presenter:
Todd Stamm, Principal Planner, Community Planning and Development Department
Background and Analysis:
On August 12, 2014, following the public comment period, the Council directed that a work session be scheduled for more discussion of the 'Scenic View' and related 'Waterfront' aspects of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update. This work session will provide Council members with an opportunity for discussion of options before making a final decision later in 2014.
Background
In 1976 Olympia's Comprehensive Plan included a goal to, "Enhance and preserve key visual characteristics of the city" and, among others, policies stating that:
1. Capitol dome should be a focal point in the design of the city. Sylvester Park and the old State Capitol should be preserved.
2. Viewpoints from which Budd Inlet, Mt. Rainier, and the Olympics can be seen should be designated and protected.
3. Preservation of waterfront and viewpoints for public use should be a high priority.
Since at least the 1980s, the City of Olympia has used development regulations as part of its effort to preserve and enhance such scenic views. That effort has generally focused on those noted above and views of the Black Hills and major bodies of water. Particular regulations govern views of all of these features from certain streets and from the waterfront, of the Capitol dome from downtown, and views of Budd Inlet from East and West Bay Drives. (In addition, the City administers view pro...
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