Resolution 6106 - Laserfiche WebLink

IMPLEMENTATION crosswalks can be added when an intersection undergoes infrastructure improvements to systems such as drainage, utility lines, and signalization. The City's development code requires replacement of sidewalks and installation of amenities as part of new development. This provides incremental streetscape improvements at low public cost but has the disadvantage that, for a while at least, the improvements will not match their surroundings; it will be difficult to determine the spacing of elements such as street trees and lights; landscape establishment of small numbers of trees is more difficult to monitor; and streetscape continuity and consistency are more difficult to achieve. Therefore, it is recommended that the following measures be considered when an individual property owner applies for a permit to redevelop a downtown lot: • Encourage other property owners on the block to contribute to full-block streetscape improvements. This would ensure matching pavements, improved street tree conditions, efficient light spacing, and long-term cost savings compared to costs if individual properties are improved separately. The City could manage the construction and financing, providing further savings, and perhaps contribute some funds as an incentive. • Prepare a schematic design for the whole block to ensure that the spacing of lights, trees, and utilities is ultimately consistent. The City could also make sure conduit is laid to provide for future utilities. • Install street trees and, perhaps, street lights in the entire block when the development is being constructed. This would at least ensure that the block has a consistent character and facilitate tree establishment. Other property owners would be assessed for the lights and trees when they develop their properties. Of all streetscape improvements, street trees provide the most visual impact, especially relative to their cost. Therefore, it is recommended that the City consider installing plantings of street trees on priority streets that are not scheduled for comprehensive improvements in the near future. Of course, such plantings should be well planned to avoid conflicts with utilities and future improvements and to address maintenance issues. Such a tree planting program might be funded through a modest annual budget amount and streets selected on the basis of need, opportunity, and property owner requests. Besides the types of physical improvement measures described above, the plan recommends the following administrative and programmatic actions: • Determine departmental responsibilities for planting and maintaining street trees in the downtown. • Establish a fund, or funding mechanism, for street tree maintenance. • Continue to work with the BIA in efforts to maintain and clean up the downtown. • Identify other sources of funding and volunteer support. • Continue to engage transit service providers in improvements to transit stops and other facilities. 44