Title
Discussion of Downtown Design Guidelines Update
Recommended Action
Hear the briefing and provide any feedback on the proposed changes
Report
Issue:
Discussion and feedback from the Board about proposed changes to design guidelines for Downtown
Staff Contact:
Amy Buckler, Downtown Programs Manager, Community Planning & Development, (360) 570-5847
Presenter(s):
John Owen, consultant from MAKERS architecture and urban design
Amy Buckler
Background and Analysis:
One of the first recommended actions to implement the Downtown Strategy (DTS) is an update to the downtown design guidelines (see scope below.) With help from a Technical Work Group that including architects, developers, citizens, members of the Design Review Board and Heritage Commission and planning staff, the consultant has prepared a working draft of the new design guidelines (attachment 1).
At the meeting, Mr. Owen will review major changes and other highlights. The Board is encouraged to ask questions and provide feedback. As it may be useful to the Board, draft crosswalks comparing the current downtown guidelines and the proposals are also attached (attachments 2-5). A major changes document plus additional materials for the general public are being prepared.
A public open house is tentatively scheduled for April 18, followed by an open comment period. Targeted outreach is also being directed at relevant neighborhood and business groups, developers, the Port of Olympia, the Design Review Board, Heritage Commission, Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and TWG. All comments received through April will be considered when preparing the public hearing draft.
Scope of Update
The scope for the design guideline update includes:
* Organize into one section so that applicants can access all relevant guidelines in one place
* Allow for flexibility, but be focused and clear; not onerous
* Discuss and update the existing use and definitions of "shall" and "should' to help better meet objectiv...
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