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

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development within the Neighborhood Sub -district. North Commons surrounds an existing wetland and provides open space for year-round activities including a proposed sledding hill. The sub -district is adjacent to The Draw, which is characterized by wetlands, ponds and a meandering stream channel surrounded by gently sloping hills. Other park features include active and passive recreation areas, natural and manicured landscapes, education and interpretation opportunities, pedestrian and bicycle trails and many other amenities. Tree -lined streets connect these parks to surrounding residential neighborhoods and to nearby parks and amenities throughout The COR. Insert Streetscape standards (to be provided by city staff): • Sidewalk width • Tree species and size (by block, by street) • Tree spacing • Hardscape requirements (planter boxes, benches, trash, etc.) • Lighting • Light banners Site Development The Neighborhood Sub -district emphasizes residential development. To support the proposed mix of housing, a framework of streets and blocks, based on the traditional grid system, encourages compact development patterns with increasing densities closer to the heart of The COR. Typical blocks either front onto signature parks or include some private green space within the site; many blocks have both. The arterial streets that frame this property, including Ramsey, Armstrong and Bunker Lake Boulevards, provide an important 'face' for this sub -district. Residential front doors will connect with public walks along each of these streets promoting the urban character of The COR. Architecture The largest in terms of overall acreage, the Neighborhood Sub -district will define the character and quality of the entire northern half of The COR property. With prominent street frontage along most of the major thoroughfares that serve this site, the variety of choices for building type, architectural style and design detailing are crucial decisions that together will promote a safe and attractive residential neighborhood. Integrating contemporary and traditional styles is also an important consideration, central to the notion that a unique and creative model for housing development will be a signature for The COR. Architecture to be '4-sided' at all locations visible to public areas. Emphasis to be on great design along public street frontage. Architecture framework guidelines include the following: Design Framework — The COR Page 50