Resolution 7700 - Laserfiche WebLink

3. Transit-Oriented Communities Everett Housing Action Plan 32 To address these objectives, this TOD strategy is guided by five integrated elements:  Element 1: Make connections across the highway, Casino Road, Evergreen Way and in neighborhoods. While the area has excellent automobile and transit access, pedestrian and bicycle mobility are severely impeded by arterial crossings and lack of safe walkways on other streets. The Evergreen Way Revitalization Plan identified priority improvements to increase non- motorized mobility which should be addressed as part of a TOD strategy. Of particular importance is the pedestrian bridge across SR 526. Pedestrian improvements such as lighting, signage and clear pathways to public streets would enhance safety and comfort. When the LINK light rail station is constructed, consideration to a “lid” or at least convenient access from both north and south of SR 526 should be included. The LINK station and plaza at I-90 and 23rd Ave SE is a model for such a facility. In terms of better connectivity in the neighborhoods, some improvements can be implemented as part of development while others should be included in the City’s capital improvement planning.  Element 2: Encourage new development on corridor sites. Since the Evergreen Way corridor runs directly through the TOD area, many of the recommendations of Chapter 2. Development on Urban Corridors apply, especially on the north and south sides of the station area where there are development opportunities.  Element 3: Allow more housing choices in residential areas. The northwest and southeast sectors of the transit area include single family residential areas that can form the basis for a substantial community if linked and supported with services as well as good transit access. Adding small scale “missing middle” infill housing as noted in Element 2. Increasing Housing Variety will add housing options to support transit ridership.  Element 4: Protect existing affordable housing resources. As illustrated in Figure 10, there are portions of the TOD area that include housing that appears to be relatively affordable. To meet the City’s objectives, it is important to ensure such units remain for families with lower incomes.  Element 5: Provide needed amenities and commercial services. The TOD area already includes commercial services, but it will be necessary to support existing small businesses and foster new businesses that serve increased local demand. Some businesses featuring ethnic foods and goods have become impromptu social centers as well, and it will be important to retain their services. The area is also well served with schools, but outside of playgrounds, which are normally closed to the public, there are few parks and open spaces. Such facilities are important to attract residential development and create a viable neighborhood.