Agenda - Planning Commission - 07/09/2015 - Work Session

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TC2 Cguaknercial Overview While the Commercial Sub -district encourages a mix of large and small floor plates, accommodating auto -oriented uses, this suggests even greater attention be paid to public realm and streetscape improvements that not only accommodate vehicles, but also invite bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Surface parking lots provide convenient access to storefronts, but present an additional challenge to the overall visual character and aesthetic appeal of this area. While no large public parks are identified for this sub -district, small pocket parks, squares or other gathering spaces are encouraged. A consistent, attractive streetscape is also essential. Public realm and streetscape guidelines include the following: TC2 Parks, plazas and other public gathering spaces Public spaces in the Mixed Use Core should: • Blend both contemporary and traditional motifs with a focus on pedestrian connections and small group sitting areas • Encourage a balance of hardscape with landscape; a mix of pavements with plantings. • Provide small urban parks or plazas integrated with building entries or taking advantage of shared space between buildings • Promote safety and security in all design solutions, including landscape lighting, views into the site, and accessibility • Provide seasonal interest and color; promote high quality materials and finishes • Provide opportunities and specific sites for public art TC2 Street/sidewalk dimensions and streetscape elements Destination streets (like Sunwood) and connector streets (like Zeolite) must balance a high level of service for the automobile with attractive and inviting amenities for the pedestrian including: Public Realm / Streetscape • Provide gracious sidewalk width to invite pedestrian traffic • Install street trees to frame the street and provide shade • Provide street lighting that meets all safety standards and design criteria, while creating a unique character for this district • Explore street light spacing, height and a variety of fixture type that would support proposed mix of uses and activities (note, however, that too much light is as bad as too little) • Explore a range of options for streetscape improvements including special pavements, interesting concrete tinting or scoring patterns, additional plantings, ornamental fencing and other features (note, however, that simpler is better and too much clutter is a negative) TC2 Bicycle/pedestrian connections (on -street and off-street) The Town Center Master Plan describes a network of bicycle/pedestrian trails and walkways (both on and off-street) that connect adjacent sub -districts to one another. These connections tend to become part of the shared right of way along the major streets. Bicycle riders may choose to share the street with vehicular traffic, or dismount and walk their bicycles along with the other pedestrians using the sidewalks. However, providing and maintaining these bicycle and pedestrian connections should be a key component for all development projects. TC2 Residential courts, pocket parks and other private green space As previously mentioned, there are many opportunities to integrate privately owned and maintained courtyards and pocket parks within this sub -district. These small-scale greens provide important `breathing space', contribute to stormwater management and offer additional amenities (sitting areas) to serve specific building tenants and adjacent uses. Back gardens, auto -courts and other options should also be considered as part of residential and commercial development plans in this sub -district. 18 Ramsey Town Center Development Guidelines