Title
Briefing on Downtown Design Guidelines Update
Recommended Action
Hear the briefing followed by discussion
Report
Issue:
Briefing regarding the preliminary scope and timeline for updating Downtown design guidelines
Staff Contact:
Amy Buckler, Senior Planner, Community Planning & Development, (360) 570-5847
Presenter(s):
John Owen, MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design
Amy Buckler, Senior Planner
Background and Analysis:
One of the first recommended actions to implement the Downtown Strategy (DTS) is an update to Downtown design guidelines. The city has retained MAKERS consultants to assist in this effort. Over the next 8 months, updated guidelines will be prepared, and the Planning Commission will then hold a public hearing and make a recommendation to the City Council regarding adoption.
The design guidelines will be influenced by the Comprehensive Plan and priorities identified in the Downtown Strategy (attachment 1). The guidelines influence site design, building orientation, massing, architecture and other details, as well as historic preservation and view protection. As part of the DTS, the City asked MAKERS to prepare an analysis and preliminary recommendations for the update (Attachment 2).
In summary:
* Organize Downtown guidelines into one section so that applicants can access all relevant guidelines in one place
* Make sure guidelines are focused and clear; not onerous. They should be flexible enough to allow for departures when this would result in something better.
* Avoid vague language. Discuss and update the existing use and definitions of "shall" and "should' to help better meet objectives
* Various updates to address site planning and design, pedestrian access, amenities, open space, and building design
* Reinforce unique character areas. While basic standards should apply throughout Downtown, some variation should be applied.
* Craft new mixed use guidelines
* Improve historic guidelines, including incorporate Secretary of t...
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