Agenda - Planning Commission - 12/01/2011 - Work Session

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Overall Framework - Street Hierarchy Overview The Development Master Plan defines a specific strategy for the layout of streets and blocks within, and around The COR. The size, type and configuration of this street hierarchy (See Figure 2) is based on a combination of projected traffic volume, level of service at intersections, proposed adjacent land use (destination commercial, residential, civic, recreation, etc.) and desired aesthetic character. Great streets are essential components of an attractive and inviting public realm. These guidelines promote a street system that balances pedestrian and vehicular use. Providing streets that support traffic flow is important, but also creating ample space for street -side activities, strolling promenades, pockets of green and other amenities is critical to the success of The COR. Streets will promote convenient access by car — to storefronts, to parking lots and ramps, to entertainment attractions — but will also encourage foot traffic as a primary way to move about and conduct business in the core area. Guideline Recommendations The proposed street and block pattern reflects a compact urban character, not allowing dead end streets or cul-de-sacs, in favor of a traditional grid pattern and connected streets including the following: • Provide a street network that distributes pedestrian and vehicular traffic throughout the various districts in The COR and encourages a more dispersed and less congested traffic flow (many choices or travel paths). • Provide a clear hierarchy of streets resulting in a simple and understandable system for movement — easy access and convenient circulation throughout The COR. • Convert primary perimeter streets (arterials such as Ramsey, Armstrong and Bunker Lake Boulevards) to urban street sections, providing sidewalks and street trees to replace roadside ditches. • Promote improvements that invite pedestrian and bicycle use including wide sidewalks, streetscape amenities and designated bicycle trails (both on and off-street). Objectives Creative design solutions for public realm improvements should reflect these basic street classifications (street hierarchy) including: • Arterial street — these streets provide the boundary of The COR and all access into The COR will be from one of these three streets: — Bunker Lake Boulevard — Armstrong Boulevard — Ramsey Boulevard • Destination street — signature addresses for shopping, entertainment, services, work place and other primary amenities Design Framework — The COR Page 5