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

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Overall Framework - Parking Overview Balancing the realities of car -related necessities (streets, parking and so on) with future transit service and the desired character of The COR is a significant challenge. The goal is to provide adequate parking; both quantity and location, while promoting new strategies that support the overall needs of The COR. Parking will be provided through a combination of on street spaces, off-street surface lots, underground lots and structured ramps to support the mix of uses at the core. Parking structures should contribute to the overall character and image of The COR. Ramp design should include elements, colors and materials that reflect, or complement surrounding buildings. Liner stores or other street level uses should be integrated into ramp design along important street frontages. Guideline Recommendations Parking guidelines encourage the following: • Locate off-street surface parking lots away from the major streets, either behind or to the side of primary buildings • Provide a combination of fencing, landscaping and landform to screen parking areas from major streets and important views • Create strategies for shared parking between adjacent uses, taking advantage of peak and off- peak cycles, business hours, nighttime activities, special events and other needs • Provide alternative surfaces for secondary (less frequently used) parking areas including porous pavements, green pavements and so on • Provide facilities or services that respond to and connect with future transit to reduce required parking, including shuttle/circulator bus, bicycle lockers • Provide flexibility including hours for on -street parking, security and enforcement practices, permit or metering • Provide parallel parking on both public and private streets throughout The COR, to add parking and create a traffic calming, pedestrian buffer • Explore options to integrate stormwater management requirements into parking area design • Explore various landscape approaches to soften parking area edges, provide shade, integrate native plantings, offset islands and other ideas to reduce to 'sea of parking' image Objectives The primary objective is to provide a balance of surface lots, on -street and structured parking, with ample quantities and close proximity to serve the mix of uses in The COR. In addition to providing adequate space, excellent design is a major factor as well. The framework for The COR encourages creativity, innovation, quality and attention to detail in every aspect of project development, including parking solutions. Photographs throughout the Design Framework suggest some of the many possibilities. Design Framework — The COR Page 12