Resolution 6106 - Laserfiche WebLink

DESIGN CONCEPT Most relevant to this streetscape plan are the important street improvements that are recommended to: • Provide a pleasing entry into downtown. For example, streetscape improvements on Broadway, Pacific Avenue, Everett Avenue, and Marine View Drive can greatly improve a visitor's first impression of the city center and direct them along preferred corridors. • Increase pedestrian quality and activity. Recent improvements to Colby and Hewitt Avenues is proof of this effect. • Encourage residential neighborhood development. Streetscapes on Rucker Avenue are necessary if that street will support the planned mixed-use residential area. • Connect key civic facilities. Improved pedestrian connections to government offices, the Performing Arts Center, the Everett Events Center, the library, and other activity centers will enhance the use of these facilities. • Enhance downtown's visual character. Downtown includes some older, historic areas as well as some emerging new districts, and streetscapes in those areas can add to a distinctive identity. • Encourage development. Streetscape improvements are a proven way to provide an impetus for new development. • Provide for better multimodal transportation. Bicycle lanes on Hoyt Avenue and, perhaps, California Avenue will link to citywide routes. Streetscape improvements are designed to be compatible with, if not encourage, expanded transit service. The comprehensive strategy for streetscape improvements is summarized in Figure 11. As Figure 11 indicates, most street segments are classified into four types: Retail Streets, Connector Streets, Gateway Streets, and Local Circulation Streets (shown with no color indicated). Retail Streets are those where pedestrian-oriented businesses are expected to locate. The recommended zoning code provisions require that ground floors along Retail Streets be occupied by pedestrian-oriented non-residential uses, and the design standards direct new buildings to include "transparent" ground floor facades, weather protection, and other pedestrian amenities. Therefore, the street design recommendations in Chapter 4, Street Designs, are directed toward improving pedestrian conditions, amenities, and aesthetics. 12