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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-20-2015 Planning and Zoning Commissionr f Iowa City Planning & Zoning Commission Formal Meeting Thursday, August 20, 2015 7:00 PM Emma Harvat Hall - City Hall - p RS✓1' I x 01 L' CCU AICI1 I tip t4 h r Department of Neighborhood'`, and ,/e Development Services CITY OF 10WA CITY P j' I UNESCO QTY OF LITERATURE 6 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION Thursday, August 20, 2015 - 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Emma Harvat Hall Iowa City City Hail 410 E. Washington Street AGENDA: A. Call to Order B. Roll Call C. Public Discussion of Any Item Not on the Agenda D. Comprehensive Plan Item A public hearing on an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan: The 2015 South District Plan. The plan may be viewed at www.icgov.org/southic E. Planning & Zoning Information Update on Iowa City downtown retail storefront and signage guidelines review process. F. Adjournment Upcoming Planning & Zoning commission Meetings Formal: September 3 / September 17 / October 1 Informal: Scheduled as needed. CITY OF iOWA CITY MEMORANDUM Date: August 14, 2015 To: Planning and Zoning Commission From: Sarah Walz, Associate Planner Re: Revisions to the South District Plan Introduction: After receiving input from the public regarding the update to the South District Plan, the Commission deferred its recommendation on the draft plan to allow staff to consider modifications requested by developers and affordable housing advocates to allow for great housing diversity in all new neighborhoods. We have had several weeks to meet with individuals in the development and real estate community to discuss where and how the plan might better address these issues. Several changes have been made to the additional draft, including the following: • The "New Residential Development" section of the plan calls out particular areas where additional density should be considered. Some of these locations are reflected on the Future Land Use Map and in the New Neighborhood Scenario. Higher density development is shown near the intersection of the arterial streets —Sycamore, Gilbert, Lehman, and McCollister as well as along some of those streets. The text and the map for the neighborhood scenario has been reworked to address some confusion that was expressed regarding the purpose of this illustration and its implications for future development. • The opportunity for clustered density is contemplated along Gilbert Street west of the Pepperwood Subdivision to encourage the extension of Cherry Street to improve connectivity. • Opportunities to cluster or transfer density from one property to another are described for areas near the wastewater treatment facility and along the south and west border of Wetherby Park. • While higher density housing is desirable, public input during the planning process raised concerns about large concentrations of multi -family and attached housing. To encourage a healthier mix, the plan calls attention to a concept called "Missing Middle" housing, which includes a mix of small-scale townhomes, 4 and 6-plexes, etc., to allow additional density that reflects the scale and mass of single-family housing. While the middle housing can be achieved through the Planned Development process, ensuring a quality mix of such housing might be accomplished more effectively and efficiently through a form -based zone. Minor changes have also been made to the commercial section in response to comments over flooding in the area of South Gilbert Street and Stevens Drive and a desire to recognize opportunity for future commercial zoning in the far northeast portion of the district along Highway 6. We will describe these changes in detail at your meeting. o�`o • P'IL 7 ft • i AAL 11 Ll 171 u )�� 1 ;� ;, �. k: South District Plan City of Iowa City, Iowa City Council Kingsley Botchway Rick Dobyns Terry Dickens Matthew Hayek Susan Mims Michelle Payne Jim Throgmorton Planning and Zoning Commission Carolyn Dyer Charles Eastham Ann Freerks Michael Hensch Phoebe Martin Max Parsons Jodie Theobald City Manager Tom Markus Department of Neighborhood and Development Services Doug Boothroy, Director John Yapp, Developments Services Coordinator Robert Miklo, Senior Planner Karen Howard, Associate Planner Sarah Walz, Associate Planner Emily Ambrosy, Mapping Kay Irelan, Mapping Bailee McClellan, Intern Ashley Zitzner, Intern Kirk Lehmann, Intern 10 BLANK PAGE TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Housing 13 Neighborhood Quality 23 Parks, Trails, and Open Space 29 Streets and Transportation 37 Commercial Development 47 South District Plan Map 53 BLANK PAGE Introduction The Comprehensive Plan is intended to promote patterns of land use, urban design, infrastructure, and services that encourage and contribute to the livability and sustainability of Iowa City and its neighborhoods. As elements of the Comprehensive Plan, district plans relate specifically to the histo- ry and existing conditions at a more local, neighborhood level. The goals and objectives in the dis- trict plans addresses issues of housing and quality of life, transportation, commercial development and parks, trails, and open space particular to specific areas of the community. These plans are advi- sory documents that are intended to direct and manage change over time. They serve as a guide for decision -making, deliberation, and investment for both the public and private sector. Originally adopted in 1997, the South District Plan was Iowa.City's first completed district plan. Fol- lowing the Iowa City Community School District announcement that a new elementary school, Archi- bald Alexander, would open in South Iowa City in 2015, City Council directed planning staff to up- date the existing district plan. The updated plan would consider new neighborhoods surrounding the school develop in light of the sustainability goals of the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan and the priori- ties of the City's Strategic Plan (November, 2013). The new elementary school and the road extension and infrastructure that serve it represent a sub- stantial investment made by the taxpayers of our community. It is therefore in the public interest to plan proactively for the long-term health and stability of new and existing neighborhoods to ensure the full benefit of that investment. The update to the South District Plan therefore focuses on cre- ating walkable neighborhoods served by a network of interconnected streets that enhance opportu- nities not only for alternative transportation but for neighborhood cohesion and social interaction. The plan calls for the integration of a variety of housing options to accommodate a range of house- hold types and to support the extension of transit and support for small neighborhood commercial nodes. It seeks to strengthen and enhance existing neighborhoods and improve access to parks, commercial areas, and employment centers. Finally, the plan recognizes the opening of the new school as an opportunity to re -envision South Iowa City —to foster a positive identity and sense of community based on its environmental and recreational assets and its culturally diverse population. The South District is one of ten planning districts in Iowa City. The Iowa City Community School District hosted a groundbreaking for the new Archibald Alexander Elemen- tary School in June, 2014. The new school is scheduled open in fall 2015 and will have a capacity of 500 students. The City of Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department partnered with the School District, contributing funds to enlarge the school gymnasium so that it can serve the community after school hours. PA The public workshop for the South District Plan took place on October 6 at Grant Wood Elementary. The work- shop was an opportunity for residents, property owners, developers, and other interested members of the com- munity to meet face-to-face to discuss the future of South Iowa City. It was also a chance for members of the public to engage with City staff to better understand development processes, provision of and services, exten- sion or improvements in infrastructure, as well as preser- vation of open space and zoning. Public Participation Public input is vital to any comprehensive planning effort. Residents, property owners, area busi- nesses, community organizations, public service agencies, and other interested citizens helped for- mulate the goals and objectives for this update to the South District Plan through their participation in one or more planning activities. To initiate the process staff conducted a series of interviews with neighborhood advocates and rep- resentatives of community groups, realtors, and property owners with additional feedback gath- ered at a series of neighborhood events—Wetherby's Party in the Park, National Night Out, and Grant Wood Elementary School's back -to -school event. An online survey gathered additional infor- mation from 70 respondents. From these interviews and events a set of common themes emerged. A community workshop held at Grant Wood Elementary on October 6, 2014, gathered additional information on what makes the South District attractive and livable as well as what is challenging about living, working, or doing business in South Iowa City. Workshop participants discussed how to build on the assets of the area, including the many environmental and recreational assets and the new south elementary school. Other Sources The South District Plan also draws from outreach and interviews completed by the Broadway Neighborhood Center, including a set of strategies formulated as a result of community workshops and surveys conducted by that agency in (2008). The plan was also informed by the Broadway Neighborhood Community Assessment, a 2004 report authored by Julie A. Spears M.S.W., M.A. and Miriam J. Landsman, Ph.D., M.S.W. (University of Iowa School of Social Work, National Resource Centerfor Family Centered Practice). These reports represent substantial input from minorities and renters, two groups that may have been underrepresented at the community workshop. Plan Implementation The South District Plan will be used as a guide for future development or redevelopment within the district and for preserving and improving valuable assets of the area. Achieving the goals and objec- tives included in this plan will take time and the combined effort of the City, area residents, property owners, businesses, community non -profits, and neighborhood organizations. • City staff, the Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and the City Council will rely on the plan as a guide when reviewing development and rezoning requests and setting funding priorities for public infrastructure, services, or programming. • Neighborhood groups, non -profits, and other interested organizations within the community may use the plan to design programming and events and to advocate for investment (including grants), improvement, and preservation. Property owners, businesses, real estate professionals, and developers should use the plan as framework for their own decision -making and investmentas they plan to purchase, sell, or de- velop property. The Iowa City Comprehensive Plan Any effective planning effort must be grounded in reality —it must take into account the existing lo- cal conditions and any community -wide goals and policies that have already been agreed upon. The Iowa City 2030 Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2013 presents a vision for Iowa City, provides goals and objectives for realizing that vision, and sets policies for the development and growth of the City. This district plan addresses the unique characteristics of a specific area within the city, it must also meet the goals and policies adopted as a part of the larger Comprehensive Plan. Neighborhoods are at the heart of what makes Iowa City a great place to live. What follows is a set of general principles from for maintaining and building healthy neighborhoods. New development and redevelopment should adhere to these principles as well. Preserve Historic Resources and Reinvest in Established Neighborhoods: Adopting strategies to assure the stability and livability of Iowa City's historic and established neighborhoods helps to pre- serve the culture, history, and identity of Iowa City. Investing in the neighborhoods that are closest to major employers, preserves opportunities for people to live close to work, school, and shopping; promotes walking and bicycling; and reduces vehicle miles traveled. In addition, many established neighborhoods contain affordable housing options along walkable, tree -lined streets where City ser- vices and infrastructure are already in place and where neighborhood elementary schools and parks are the focal point of neighborhood activity and identity. MAKE NO SMALL PLANS .. . The goal to repurpose a retired sand dredging pond as a natural amenity was drawn from public Input during the original South District Planning effort in 1997. It would take another 15 years to make the vision into reality. In 2006, the City purchased 158 acres, including the "Sand Lake," from 5 & 1 Materials. An additional 49 acres were later acquired to extend the park to the riverfront. A master plan was drafted for the park with community input. The City covered half of the $6.5 million dollar park development with general obligation bonds; the remainder was covered by private donations and grants, including a $1.2 million CAT Gram from Vision IOWA. The park officially opened In 2013 as Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, and features bike and pedestrian trails, water craft rental, fishing, birding, picnicking, and Ica skating as well as a popular lodge for receptions and other events. The successful process: of transforming this former quarry site Into a natural feature is the re- sult of a collaborative effort with the Parks and Recrea- tion Department, community advocates, businesses, Individual donofs, and grant agencies. SCHOOL AS THE CENTER OF A NEIGHBORHOOD Housing density ensures that a significant portion of a school's student population lives near enough to walk if they choose. It also increases the likelihood that a neighborhood will sustain a population of young fami- lies with children to attend the school over time. Above: there are 428 single-family homes within a quarter mile of Grant Wood Elementary School (the area within the yellow circle). Right: This detail from ICCSD Student Density Map shows that ap- proximately 170 school age children live within a quarter mile of Grant Wood Elementary. This is comparable to other eastside elementary schools. Compatible Infill Development: Quality inf ll development plays an important role in neighbor- hood reinvestment and may include rehabilitating existing structures or encouraging new develop- ment of vacant, blighted, or deteriorated property. Development of infill sites should add to the diversity of housing options without compromising neighborhood character or over -burdening in- frastructure, including alleys and parking. Compact Development: Compact development makes efficient use of land and reduces costs asso- ciated with the provision and maintenance of public improvements, such as streets, sewers and water lines. This benefits developers and tax payers. Narrower lot frontages combined with smaller lots sizes reduce the overall cost of new housing construction, creating opportunities for more moderately priced housing. Diversity of Housing Types: A mix of housing types within a neighborhood provides residential op- portunities for a variety of people, including singles, couples, families with children, and elderly per- sons. Integrating diverse housing sizes and types throughout the community increases the oppor- tunity for people to live in the same neighborhood throughout the stages of life. A rich mix of hous- ing within a neighborhood may include single-family homes on small and large lots, townhouses, duplexes, small apartment buildings, and zero -lot -line housing, as well as apartments in mixed -use buildings located in neighborhood commercial areas and the Downtown. Affordable Housing: By allowing for a mix of housing types, moderately priced housing can be in- corporated into a neighborhood, rather than segregated in one or two areas of the community. Small multi -family buildings may be located on corner lots adjacent to arterial streets; townhouses and duplex units may be mixed with single-family homes within a neighborhood. Apartments locat- ed above commercial businesses provide needed housing while increasing the local customer base for commercial establishments. Neighborhood Schools: Neighborhood schools, particularly elementary schools, are integral to healthy, sustainable neighborhoods. Schools serve not only as centers of education but as focal points for community gathering and neighborhood identity. In addition, the school grounds provide opportunities for exercise and recreation for neighborhood residents throughout the year. Neigh- borhood elementary schools have a symbiotic relationship with the surrounding neighborhood where the school is an essential element that contributes to the quality of life. This in turn contrib- utes to the social connections, identity, safety, and well-being of the families whose children attend the school. Neighborhood Commercial Areas: Neighborhood commercial areas can provide a focal point and gathering place for a neighborhood. The businesses within a neighborhood commercial center should provide shopping opportunities within convenient walking distance for the residents in the immediate area. The design of the neighborhood commercial center should have a pedestrian orien- tation with the stores placed close to the street, but with sufficient open space to allow for outdoor cafes and patios or landscaping. Parking should be located to the rear and sides of stores with addi- tional parking on the street. Incorporating apartments above shops and reserving public open space are two ways to foster additional activity and vitality in a neighborhood commercial area. Some as- pects of commercial development such as auto -oriented uses, parking lots, bright lights, and sign - age needed to be located, screened, or buffered so that they do not detract from nearby residential uses. Interconnected Street System: Grid street systems help to reduce congestion by dispersing traffic, allowing multiple routes to get from point A to point B. In addition, by providing more direct routes, interconnected streets can reduce the vehicle miles traveled each day within a neighborhood, pro- vide more direct walking and biking routes to neighborhood destinations, and reduce the cost of providing City services. Streets as More than Pavement: Streets and adjacent parkways and sidewalks can be enhanced and planned to encourage pedestrian activity. Trees, benches, sidewalks, and attractive lighting along the street help create pleasant and safe public spaces for walking to neighborhood destina- tions and for socializing with neighbors. Streetscape amenities help establish a sense of distinction, identity, and security for neighborhoods. In residential neighborhoods, narrower street pavement widths slow traffic, reduce infrastructure costs, and allow for a more complete tree canopy over the street. Shallow Front Yard Setbacks: Placing homes closer to the street allows more backyard space and room for garages and utilities if there is also an alley located behind the home. Shallow setbacks (15- 20 feet is the code standard for residential uses) combined with narrower street pavement widths, create a more intimate pedestrian -scale public space along the street, which encourages walking and social interaction. Use of Alleys: Providing parking and utilities from a rear alley or private lane is particularly advanta- geous in neighborhoods with narrower lot frontages. This arrangement reduces driveway paving and interruptions to the sidewalk network, allows more room for front yard landscaping, and in- creases the availability of on -street parking for visitors. In addition, when garages are accessed from alleys, vehicular traffic and congestion on residential streets is reduced. EFFICIENT NEIGHBORHOOD LAYOUT `g(NCO( I,o URBAN SPRAWL GETTING FROM HERE .. . TO EVERYWHERE An Interconnected street system is integral to making a neighborhood walkable and to en- suring that all residents have access to the amenities and services within the neighbor- hood. An interconnected street system also reduces travel times, provides alternative routes, and allows more efficient provision of services. 5 0 CREATING A SENSE OF PLACE As new development occurs, small parks or pocket parks (less than one acre in size) could help preserve the sense of open space that residents consider a defining characteristic of South Iowa City. Small public or private open space may be used to preserve environmental features or provide stormwater features. These spaces may also provide opportunities for social interaction and neighborhood identity. Pe- destrian or bike connections between resi- dential areas and schools or parks will help enhance walkability in the district. Pedestrian/Bikeway Connections: Important neighborhood destinations, such as parks, schools, bus stops, and neighborhood shopping centers, should be readily accessible by pedestrians and bicy- clists. This requires a continuous sidewalk system, strategically located trails, and on -street bicycle facilities. Bike routes that intersect with key neighborhood destinations may be aligned along neigh- borhood streets or constructed in stream buffer areas or within major sanitary sewer easements. A pleasant streetscape with trees and appropriate building setbacks and ample driveway separation creates an environment that is safe and appealing for pedestrians and cyclists. Parks, Trails and Open Space: Neighborhood parks are small, one- to seven- acre open spaces that provide a focal point for informal gatherings and recreation within easy walking distance from most homes in the neighborhood. Neighborhood parks should be centrally located or situated adjacent to a school or a neighborhood commercial area and designed as an integral part of an interconnected system of open space with trails or wide sidewalks to connect with larger community and regional parks. Preservation of sensitive areas, such as wetlands, woodlands, and stream corridors and their buffers, provides an opportunity to shape and enhance a neighborhood, while maintaining scenic and natural resources and wildlife habitat. Wherever possible, natural features, such as waterways and woodlands, should be incorporated as key amenities within parks and along trail systems. Buffer Residential Development from Incompatible Uses: To help ensure the long-term livability of neighborhoods, provide sufficient buffers between residential uses and activities, such as the waste water treatment plant, Interstate 80 and Highway 218, and the landfill. Public Safety: Iowa City works to ensure public safety throughout the community. The establish- ment of Fire Station 4, the Police Substation at Pepperwood Plaza, and cooperative efforts with neighborhood groups, schools, and the University of Iowa demonstrate this commitment. Resources are directed toward education, crime prevention, and enforcement to enhance the quality of life in Iowa City. HOW WE DEFINE THE SOUTH PLANNING DISTRICT The South Planning District Includes all land within the Iowa City growth boundary south of Highway 6 and east of the Iowa River. The growth boundary is drawn to indicate the area of land that can be served by the south sanitary sewer facility without need for lift sta- tions. Thus the boundary does not ex- tend further south than the south wastewater treatment facility. A large wetland conservation area lo- cated east of the Sycamore Greenway and south of a future extension of McCollister Boulevard cannot be devel- oped and thereby serves as a natural boundary for urban development. The South Planning District contains approximately 3,000 acres or 4.7 square miles, Including land not currently with- in City Limits. A 2008 Public Works land Inventory indicated approximately 1,695 acres of vacant, developable land within the district, if built out at an average of 2.3 dwelling units per acre, the study estimated that another 3,900 households could be established within this portion of the community. Most recently constructed neighborhoods have developed at a density of 3.0 units per acre or greater. Areas shaded in red are within the dis- trIct boundaries, but outside current city limits City Limits District Boundary 0 Although few physical signs remain of early human settlement in South Iowa City, archaeological evi- dence indicates that South Iowa City has been the site of human occupation for millennia. A 2,000 year old dwelling and associated features were excavated at Napoleon Park —the earliest prehistoric structure found in the entire Iowa River Valley. The McCollister -Showers farmstead is one of the few remaining historic structures in South Iowa City. Historic Context Iowa City's historic roots may be traced to areas along the river, south of Highway 6. John Gilbert (the historic figure for whom Gilbert Street is named) was likely the first white man to make a home in this part of the state. In 1826 he set up a trading post near the mouth of Snyder Creek, just south of the planning district boundaries, and began exchange with a Meskwaki Indian Village in the area, thought to have had a population of around 1,000 people. In 1837, Gilbert laid out the town of Napoleon at or near what is now Napoleon Park. A year later there were 237 white settlers in the area. Napoleon served as the county seat and the location of the first county court house and post office, from 2 Mar 1839 until 14 Nov 1839 when Iowa City was declared the new county seat. A log cabin and one frame house were the only buildings ever erected on the town site. The log cabin that served as the first courthouse stood across from what later would become the McCollister Farmstead. The establishment of Iowa City as the territorial capital and county seat in 1839 marked the beginning of the end for the fledgling town of Napoleon. Philip Clark was one of the first individuals persuaded by Gilbert to settle in this area. The McCollister -Showers farmstead located at 2460 South Gilbert Street is situated on land that was park of Clark's original 1837 claim. In 1863, the property was purchased by James McCollister and over the next few decades grew to be a farm containing about 750 acres. The McCollister -Showers home was con- structed in 1864 and expanded in 1880. The ten -acre farmstead that remains is listed on the Nation- al Register of Historic Places. McCollister Boulevard and bridge commemorate the role the McCollis- ter family played in early Iowa City history. Another mid-19`" century home, located on property just to the north of the McCollister -Showers farmstead, sits on atop the hill at Friendly Farm at the south terminus of Waterfront Drive. Based on its Greek Revival architecture and design, it likely predates that construction of the McCollister - Showers home. Although little is known definitively about its history, maps suggest the property was possibly owned by Cyrus Sanders who came to Johnson County in 1839, purchasing the claim of A.D. Stephens on the edge of Iowa City. Sanders held the position of Johnson County Surveyor for nearly fifteen years (1839/40 until 1855). These two farmsteads are the most visible links that remain the early white settlement in South Iowa City. Environmental Context Water plays an enduring role in South Iowa City, presenting both obstacles and oppor- tunities. Flooding along the Iowa River and the presence of streams, wetlands, drain- age ways, and hydric soils in other areas of the district limit where and how develop- ment may occur. High groundwater levels, especially in areas east of Sycamore Street, make stormwater management a major focus of development plans. In some areas east of the Sycamore Greenway trail, a shallow water table may preclude the con- struction of basements. Outside of Iowa City limits, South Gilbert Street becomes Sand Road, a testament to the distinct geology in this part of our community. Much of South Iowa City consists of sandy soils deposited by the Iowa River during the last glacial period. A sand dune that formed during the post glacial period is a prominent geologic feature, now preserved as Sand Prairie Park. An important industry in South Iowa City during the latter part of the twentieth centu- ry, sand dredging left a manmade mark upon the landscape. When dredging activities were discontinued in the 1990s the Parks Department purchased the 'sand lake' and later developed the site as Terry Trueblood Recreation Area —a regional park. Current- ly, a smaller dredging pond to the east of Gilbert Street is being filled with materials excavated for expansion of the University of Iowa Children's Hospital. While this might otherwise be an ideal location for residential development, the property will require a geotechnical analysis to determine its development potential. Snyder Creek forms the district's eastern limit, meandering south and west toward the river through an extensive system of wetlands known as the Snyder Creek Bottoms. This five -square mile wetland area absorbs and filters stormwater before it reaches the Iowa River, reducing flooding and pollution and supporting wildlife habitat, espe- cially for migratory and game birds that rely on wetlands and isolated ponds. Though outside city limits, a unified strategy for protecting and restoring the function of these wetlands would provide an opportunity for an outdoor attraction that would benefit county and city residents alike. While these sensitive environmental features limit development, they also provide opportunities for public parks and trails as well as private open space, and are defining elements of South Iowa City's identity and sense of place. THE SYCAMORE GREENWAY Each time it rains, stormwater passes over roofs, pavement, and other land surfaces picking up pollutants such as oil, salt, lawn chemicals, and eroded soil before flowing untreated through the storm sewer system Into creeks and rivers. This Is how most cities handle stormwater, but a one square mile watershed in South Iowa City relies on an alternative system. Designed by University of Iowa geoscience professor Lon Drake, the Sycamore Greenway is an example of green infrastructure unlike any other in Iowa. The 52-acre system consists of chain of 22 Intermittent wetlands thatflow into a larger series of crescent -shaped wetland cells effectively holding and filtering storm wa- ter runoff from hundreds of residential properties. The Greenway also provides wildlife habitat. More than 130 bird species, including sandhill cranes, may be observed along the Greenway, and hundreds of waterfowl visit the area each year during migration season. A popular 2 X mile paved trail winds through the Greenway connecting surrounding neighborhoods to Kickers Soccer Park. m THE GROWTH OF SOUTH IOWA CITY 1960 What you can see: Residential development south of Highway 6 began with the Hilltop Mobile Home Park and the area that is now the Grant Wood Neighborhood. Development of modest tract housing along Hol- lywood Boulevard; Western and Union Roads; and Arizona, California, and Nevada Avenues allowed workers to live near the Proctor and Gamble plant just to the north via Fair Meadows Blvd. What you can see: Residential development expanded in the 1960s and 1970s to include the Bon Aire Mobile Home Park and single-family detached housing extended east of Sycamore Street as part of the Hol- lywood Subdivision and south of Lakeside Drive around Regal Lane. Lakeside Apartments (now called Rose Oaks) was developed as student housing. Commercial centers are visible in the location of Pepperwood Plaza and Sycamore Mall. Outside the district, industrial uses expanded along Highway 6. 11 What you can see: Residential neighborhood develop- ment was more fully built out during the 1980s and early 1990s along both sides of Sycamore Street as far south as Burns and California Avenues and in the Pepperwood Subdivision. Bon Aire Mobile Home Park expanded. Wetherby and Napoleon Parks were both established along with Grant Wood School. Sand Lake was becoming visible as a sand dredging pond. In this aerial, wetlands are visible In the area west of Snyder Creek. Residential development is taking shape In the Sandhill Estates subdivision off south Gilbert Street The Pepper - wood Subdivision is nearly fully built out. New subdivi- sions are being constructed south of Lakeside and Wetherby Drives. Multi -family development is completed south of commercial areas along Keokuk Street and Cross Park Avenue. The Saddlebrook neighborhood, which be- gan with manufactured housing around Paddock Circle in far southeast Iowa City, has expanded to include town - homes and multi -family and duplexes along Heinz Road. The sycamore Greenway is established with a trail con- necting south to Kickers Soccer Park. Sand Lake, retired as a dredging area, is transformed into a regional attraction as Terry Trueblood Recreation Araa. 12 Housing A variety of housing options ranging from manufactured housing, townhomes, apartment complex- es, duplexes, and single-family detached homes provide opportunities for people of a variety of in- come levels, ages, and household types in South Iowa City. This has allowed many residents to start their adult lives here as renters, own a first home, and transition within their neighborhood as their households grew or changed over time. While more than half of the housing within the South District is detached single-family units, there is considerable variety in home sizes, prices, and styles. Housing development that slowed during the economic recession in 2008, has picked up considerably over the past 3-4 years. The announcement of the new school location on South Sycamore Street will add to the demand in this area. As Grant Wood School is relieved of overcrowded conditions, the surrounding neighborhood should once again become more attractive for families with young children. Single -Family Housing The development of single-family residential neighborhoods in South Iowa City began in the late 1950s with subdivisions south of the Procter and Gamble property. The Fairmeadows and Hollywood subdivisions featured modest tract housing on small lots, providing an affordable option for workers to live close to the Highway 6 industrial area. Between 1960 and 1990, single-family neighborhoods extended west of Sycamore and south to Am- ber and Regal Lanes with housing characteristic of the period —a mix of split level and ranch homes with attached garages. By the early 1990s, most of the single-family zone north of Lakeside Drive and Burns Avenue was platted and developed, including the Pepperwood Neighborhood. Neighborhood design is typical of the postwar period, with curvilinear or u-shaped streets and long block lengths or, as in Pepperwood Neighborhood and Whispering Meadows neighborhoods, cul-de-sacs. By the mid-1990s, development slowed in South Iowa City due to a need for infrastructure improve- ments. The drafting of the 1997 South District Plan was timed to coincide with construction of the South River Corridor Interceptor Sewer that would provide the necessary capacity for new neighbor- hoods west of Sycamore Street. Meanwhile construction of the Sycamore Greenway, a regional stormwater facility (completed in 2001), made development of neighborhoods east of Sycamore Street feasible by enhancing drainage in an area that was otherwise susceptible to flooding. Newly platted lots in South Iowa City continue to be somewhat smaller than those platted in many 13 South Iowa City RENT '` • 1 ;w57%i4ft Homeownership RENT OWN 51°do 49% Based on data from the 2012 Five-year American Community Survey. 14 Flood Replacement Housing After the flood of 2008, the Single Family New Con- struction Program awarded downpayment assis- tance to 57 homes (single-family, duplex, and town - homes). one third of the homes approved in the program were built south of Hwy 6 and were limited to owner occupants. The homes built under this program more than made up the lost property tax revenues from the flood buy-out program and offered several households an opportunity for homeownership. other areas of the city. In part this is due to the flat topography, which allows for more development per acre. In some areas of the district, primarily east of the Sycamore Greenway, a high water table limits the construction of basements. These factors have made housing in South Iowa City affordable by reducing land and construction costs. Many single-family homes in the oldest neighborhoods are small by current standards (less than 1,100 square feet) and lack features considered standard on newer homes, such as attached two -car garages. While these homes provide an affordable option for many homebuyers, including young families and singles, maintenance costs for older homes can be higher. The City's Housing Rehabilita- tion Program provides no -interest and low -interest loan funds available for maintenance and reha- bilitation for homeowners that fall under certain income thresholds. One objective of the South Dis- trict Plan is for the City to work with neighborhood associations to make residents more aware of these programs and, in particular, to encourage upgrades that will increase energy and water effi- ciency thereby reducing long-term costs homeownership. Manufactured Housing South Iowa City's manufactured housing parks are self-contained neighborhoods, so to speak, with private streets that do not connect to the surrounding public street pattern. There are three manu- factured housing parks in South Iowa City. Hilltop Mobile Home Park, established in 1957 was one of the very first residential developments south of Highway 6. Situated on a wooded hillside in the northwest corner of the planning district just south of Southgate Avenue, Hilltop includes 150 lots. Bon Aire Mobile Home Lodge and Paddock Mobile Home Park in Saddlebrook are located in the far east portion of the planning district along Highway 6. Bon Aire was established in 1967 and includes more than 350 units. The Paddock, now part of the Saddlebrook neighborhood, was established in the mid 1990s and includes 146 units. Manufactured housing is an important source of affordable housing located close to major employ- ment centers, including the industrial zone just north of the Highway 6. Many residents prefer man- ufactured housing over multi -family or other rental housing. However, financing for manufactured homes is complicated because the land is leased rather than owned. Since the banking crisis of 2008, mortgages for manufactured housing have become quite expensive, driving down the market for these homes. While it is unknown when the manufactured housing sector will recover, it is in the City's interest to ensure that manufactured housing parks remain safe and welcoming places to live. Multi -family Housing As with manufactured housing, most multi -family development in South Iowa City is clustered close to Highway 6. Apartment complexes on large tracts of land are organized around parking areas and, in general, are not integrated with the local street network or block configuration. While this has some advantages, in terms of buffering single-family uses from the traffic associated with higher density housing, it also contributes to a feeling of social isolation within the neighborhood. Surveys conducted by the Broadway Neighborhood Center indicate that some residents of large apartment complexes feel less of an association with the surrounding residential neighborhood. Because a large proportion of renters are temporary or new to the area, developing a sense of community, even with immediate neighbors, takes time. For many residents in the multi -family developments, schools provide a vital sense of connection. Over the years there have been problems associated with some multi -family and rental properties in the South District. These issues have largely arisen due to a combination of poor or inconsistent management, insufficient maintenance and investment, and (in some cases) poor construction and site design. Building and site design for multi -family development is particularly important for dis- couraging criminal activity. Targeted code enforcement and requirements for tenant background screening have helped to improve the situation in some of the largest complexes. In 20115outhgate Development brought all buildings within what was known as the Broadway Street Condominiums under single ownership. Originally constructed in the 1970s, over the years a number of buildings within the development had come under the control of separate owners such that management and maintenance were inconsistent. Within the development large parking areas and other spaces hidden from view of the street or from apartment windows, attracted criminal ac- tivity. Conditions within these complexes became a concern not only for residents, but the larger neighborhood and adjacent commercial properties. Southgate Development invested $5.75 million with the City of Iowa City contributing $900,000 in federal (CDBG) funds to rehabilitate the apartments. As a condition of federal funding, at least fifty- six of the units must be rented to people making less than 80 percent of the area's median income. These units also have their rents capped at $802 a month, which is the fair -market value for a two - bedroom apartment in the area. Dwelling units were updated and safety of the site was improved by installing secured entrances, improved lighting, and perimeter fencing. Management also requires background checks for all residents. In response to neighborhood request, the City located a police substation in nearby Pepperwood Plaza, and engaged in more active patrol of the area, including foot patrol. These changes have been successful in providing a safer, more attractive living environ- ment for residents. Southgate Development has made substantial Invest- ments in the multi -family housing within South Iowa to provide consistent management, maintenance, and long- term investment In properties that were once neglected or poorly managed. W im DESIGNING FOR SAFETY The physical design of a neighborhood or develop- ment has an impact on safety and livability. The balanced application of the following three princi- ples can help to ensure the long-term health and safety of residential areas: Natural Surveillance. Design and maintenance that allow spaces, both inside and outside buildings, to be observed both by residents and people passing through a neighborhood. Examples include lighting of parking areas, entrances, exits, and other com- mon areas; low or see -through fencing and land- scaping; windows overlooking parking areas or entrances. Territoriality. Creating clear demarcation between public, private, and semi -private spaces helps to convey a sense of "ownership" and an awareness that criminal activity will be noticed by someone. Examples include signage, see -through screening or fencing, gateways, distinctive paving or landscaping to mark the transition between areas public and private spaces. Access Control. Decreasing access to areas where a person with criminal intent could hide. Examples include highly visible entrances or gateways through which all users of a property must enter, or the appropriate use of signage, door and window locks, or fencing to discourage unwanted access into private spaces or into dark or unmonitored areas. Iowa City's Multi -family Design Standards include some of these principles, such as requiring visible building entrances oriented toward the street, land- scaped setbacks around parking areas, and prohib- iting sliding glass doors and unenclosed stairways as primary means of access to an dwelling unit. The principles were also applied to the Casey's site along Highway 6. The story of Lakeside Apartments —now Rose Oaks —is a cautionary tale of the community impact when a large-scale multi -family project falls into decline. Originally constructed in 1966 to attract University of Iowa students with families, the development did not stand the test of time. By the mid -1980s, tenant complaints about the management of the apartments had become an issue for the city. Over the subsequent decades, a lack of re -investment and maintenance led to further deterio- ration in the condition of the apartments, which then became vulnerable to criminal activity. The Iowa City Housing Authority cancelled all contracts (48 in all) and ended Housing Choice Vouch- er use with Dolphin Lake Point Enclave in October 2012 due to health, safety, and management is- sues. While the property suffered from poor maintenance, the need for low-income housing in the metro area is so high, that units remained occupied despite their condition. The situation has result- ed in a concentration of poverty that has implications for the community as a whole as well as the school district. In Spring 2015, the property sold to a new management company with plans to upgrade the units, however the scope of rehabilitating and/or redevelopment 400 units remains complex. The City con- tinues its stepped up code enforcement, but it will take time, attention, and extensive resources to turn the situation around. Meanwhile, with a limited supply of low-income housing in the metro ar- ea, many residents have limited options for finding replacement housing. Objectives of the plan include enhanced code enforcement and well as increased fines or fees as well as coordination of efforts with the Iowa City Police and Fire Departments to identify building issues. The plan also supports rehabilitation or redevelopment of problem properties. Iowa City's Housing Inspection is working proactively with many landlords to ensure effective management of rental properties. The Lakeside Apartments, recently re- named Rose oaks, were originally con- structed to attract UI students with young families. The above advertisement appeared the Daily Iowan in August, 1967. HOUSING —GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following goals and objectives for housing were developed from input gathered during the South District Planning process. Achieving these goals may require adational dedication of resources, In- cluding staff. Some actions will be implemented by the City. Others will, require the effort of landlords, developers, neighborhood associations, community groups, or other agencies. GOAL 1: improve and maintain existing housing stock in South Iowa City in order to ensure a healthy balance of long-term residents and owner -occupied housing and to bolster neighbor- hood stability. • Continue to make funds available and increase awareness of existing programs available through the City and other agencies that assist with the purchase or rehabilitation of homes. • Work with the neighborhood associations and manufactured housing parks in South Iowa City to raise awareness of housing rehabilitation programs. • Identify funds or incentive programs, specifically for residents to make "green" improvements that conserve water and energy, thereby reducing the long-term costs of owning a home. EXAMPLES: Explore cooperative efforts with MidAmerican Energy. Promote benefits of efficiency upgrades, such as door and window improvements, HVAC, insulation, etc. Investigate opportunities to become a Green Iowa AmeriCorps site. • Support and promote programs or workshops for new or first-time homeowners to teach basic home repair and maintenance skills. GOAL 2: Encourage professional management and long-term maintenance and investment in all rental properties for the general safety and welfare of tenants and to preserve property values neighborhood stability In South Iowa City. • Encourage the improvement or redevelopment of substandard rental properties. • Continue to enhance code enforcement to achieve compliance with rental and building regula- tions for properties that receive a high number of complaints. • Continue to coordinate communication between the ICPD, Neighborhood Services, and non- profit or neighborhood organization to identify and address safety and health issues in rental properties. a Consider opportunities to recognize good property management within South Iowa City. Iowa City's Housing Rehabilitation Programs pro- vide financial assistance to help homeowners main- tair and update residential property and ultimately contributes to the value of Iowa City's housing stock. CDBG & HOME Housing Rehabilitation Programs and the Targeted Neighborhood Improvement Pro- gram provide financial assistance to low and moder- ate income homeowners to make repairs and im- provements to their homes. The programs primarily provide low -interest or no -interest loans and/or conditional occupancy loans, depending upon the homeowner's ability to make monthly payments on the loans. The General Rehabilitation and Improvement Pro- gram (GRIP) is offered as a complementto the fed- erally -funded CDBG/HOME programs without the same level of income targeting. GRIP is designed to stabilize and revitalize neighborhoods through the broader applicability of our Housing Rehabilitation and Historic Preservation programs. This program allows the City to offer low -Interest loans that are repayable over a 20-year period, with the money awarded to qualified homeowners on a first -come, first -serve basis. 17 in Participants in the planning workshop pointed to the development along Scott Boulevard and Old Towne Vil- lage Neighborhood in Northeast Iowa City as a good ex- ample of a new neighborhood with an attractive mix of housing. Townhomes face the arterial street and com- mercial area, transitioning to duplex and detached single family in the interior of the neighborhood. Quality build- ing and site design, and ample open space and landscap- ing help to make the higher density development an attractive entrance to the area. New Residential Development The South District contains more than 1,500 acres of undeveloped land within the city's growth area, which extends as far south as the wastewater treatment facility. Much of the undeveloped land remains in agricultural production (corn and soybeans). An important goal of the City's Comprehensive Plan is to manage urban growth by encouraging compact and connected neighborhoods. Compact development preserves farmland and sensitive environmental areas for future generations and saves taxpayer money by reducing transportation and infrastructure costs and allowing efficient provision of snow removal, solid waste and recycling pick-up, transit service, fire and police protection, and mail and other delivery services. The goal of compact neighborhood design is to create village -like neighborhoods with housing for a diverse population, a mix of land uses, public space that is the focal point for the neighborhood, integrated civic or small commercial centers, accessible open space, and streets that are pleasant and safe for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. New South District neighborhoods should be built at a density and designed with a level of connec- tivity that enables families with children to walk to school and supports the extension of transit service. Trail sections should occur with development in order to provide connections between neighborhoods, new and old, to the many parks in South Iowa City and to provide convenient com- muter routes for those who wish to bike to school, work, or to the Downtown. While the predominant land use in South Iowa City's new neighborhoods will remain detached, single-family housing, new neighborhoods should provide opportunities for townhomes, duplexes, and accessory apartments, as well as multi -family buildings in order to serve residents throughout their lifetimes. Integrating a variety of housing types that are compatible in scale throughout a neighborhood is ideal. For example, single-family homes on lots interior to a block with duplexes and attached single family on corner lots creates a mix that remains similar in scale while providing a range of unit sizes and price points within a neighborhood. Along busier street frontages or where single -loaded streets border public open space, "Middle Housing"* types such as townhouses, small apartment buildings (3-10 units), or cottage or bunga- low courts may be built at a scale and mix that is compatible with the single-family neighborhoods. The additional density achieved through this mix can improve feasibility for transit service and en- hances market potential for commercial uses in the district, including the small-scale neighborhood commercial corners identified in the plan. 19 hr_ t T.17 12nra2 GGIJRTYARD t D flWGLB'PAMLT Dtg°LE)t Xtt APARTMIEW �T ..� -i h1198M�s MIDDLE NiNCs — r Getting the mix, scale, and parking placement right is essential to integrating a variety of residential types into a neighborhood. Buildings should be designed to be similar in scale (width, depth, height) to single family homes. Unit sizes may need to be smaller, but should be designed with similar atten- tion to detail and quality construction. Parking should be located to the rear with access from alleys, private rear lanes, or similar shared drive solutions. Concentrations of one housing type in any one area should be avoided as this may create an obstacle to connectivity and can upset the balance of long— and short-term residents. Though the Middle Housing concept may currently be achieved through the planned development process, the City should consider a form -based code to help en- sure that a true mix of housing at a compatible scale can be achieved. Higher density Middle Housing types must be thoughtfully designed so that they maintain an attrac- tive residential character along streets and provide safe and inviting living environments for the resi- dents. Landscaped front yards or courtyards with parking in the rear will provide a boulevard or park -like setting along streets with uninterrupted sidewalks that encourage walking and biking. Multi -family developments of a higher density should be considered along Gilbert Street for pro- posals that provide a unique housing option in South Iowa City, such as senior housing. Proposals should be of exceptional design and construction quality, meet universal design standards, and high energy efficiency standards, including alternative energy or siting for geothermal or passive solar. The community's substantial investment in Terry Trueblood Recreation Area as a regional park should result in a sensitive transition between the manmade and natural environment with appro- priate building and site design. :+t b r7 ornros a Rr7aF309now owr%w *"Missing Middle" Is a term coined by Daniel Parolek of Opticos Design, Inc., in 2010 to define a range of multi- unit or clustered housing types compatible, in scale with single—family homes that help meet the growing de- mand for walkable urban living. These include duplexes, townhouses, triplexes and fourplexes, courtyard apart- ments, bungalow courts, and small apartment buildings (5-1.0 units). To learn more about "missing middle" housing, see http://missingmiddlehousing.com. K The following areas may be candidates for clus- tered density: • West of the Pepperwood Subdivision, wooded slopes make traditional develop- ment impractical. In this area, the 2-8 dwelling units per acre envisioned on the land use map on page 53 could be clus- tered through an overlay planned develop- ment. Such development would rely on an extension of Cherry Street, which will pro- vide improved connectivity and circulation for the single-family neighborhood to the east by allowing residents more direct street access to South Gilbert Street. • Areas south of Lehman Road and east of Pleasant Valley Golf Course fall within 1,000 feet of the Wastewater Plant, an area in which the Iowa Department of Nat- ural Resources recommends careful scruti- ny of residential development. Reductions of development potential on these proper- ties might be ameliorated by allowing the 2 -8 dwelling units per acre envisioned in the land use map to be clustered along Leh- man Road or for density to be transferred to nearby properties. A limited number of multi -family buildings may be considered near the Sycamore "L" and at the intersec- tion of Lehman and Soccer Park Roads. Any larger multi -family buildings should be integrated into the neighborhood by extending the es- tablished street pattern and block size of surrounding residential development. Careful attention should be given to site design, landscaping, and parking location as well as opportunities for usable private open space. This will assure that higher density housing does not diminish connectivity or detract from the overall quality of the neighborhood. Building and site designs should be evaluated to ensure that they provide optimal safety while supporting social contact among residents. (See Designing for Safety guidelines on page 16.) Universal design should be encouraged in most housing types to maximize opportunities not only for people with disabilities but to allow people to age in place. Opportunities for additional density: Property located along the east side of Gilbert Street, south of the railroad, may be appropriate town - home or other small lot or duplex development. Multi -family units may be considered on property di- rectly adjacent to the intersections of Gilbert Street and McCollister Boulevard and Gilbert and Syca- more Street (future Lehman). Sites near the McCollister intesection may be attractive for senior housing with views of surrounding open space (Sand Prairie and Terry Trueblood Recreation Area) and access to the trail network and transit routes. Additional density may be considered for projects that add a unique housing element or that enhance housing diversity for the South District or that otherwise contribute to the connectivity and sustainability of the neighborhood, including developments that improve connectiv- ity within the neighborhood or enhance visibility and street access to public parks and other open space. As noted elsewhere in the plan, property on the east side of Gilbert Street that formerly served as a sand dredging pond has recently been filled with excavated material. Before development can occur on this site, the City will require a geotechnical analysis. If the soil is found to be suitable for development, high- er density development should be considered along Gilbert Street transitioning from multi -family at the arterial street intersections, to townhomes and/or duplexes to predominantly detached single-family at the core of the neighborhood. Properties located around the intersection of McCollister Boulevard and South Sycamore Street may also be appropriate for higher density development. A mix of townhouses, triplexes, four-plexes, or cottage/ bungalow courts may be considered along both sides of the arterials streets near this intersection. Small apartment buildings (5-10 units), live -work units, and low -scale mixed -use buildings may be integrated with the small mixed -use corner identified on the plan map. Density should step down, transitioning from commercial uses to multi -family to townhome or duplex toward the interior of the neighborhood where detached single-family housing will predominate. e e ' ' •a I �FAOOUVS •\ WETHERBv a LEGEND NA'POLEON'\ PARK BARK " laxto Median OeMty Rel�erMei SAND PRAIRIE PARK ••• 1 •�. tartoMedMn Mped xeYdeMbl ■ Cnmllxnad I ' 7¢Mizec�llm. 1 i Publk P ark7OPeu aPea 1 • I I -\ i,T nYwi Pubxa Property i 1 i 'I ,1 1—m TralljwldasldewNk 1 11----------- IL 1['p�NY� TERRYTRUEBLOW \ 1 1 RECREATION AREA a 1 ----------------------- SYCAMORE '. GREENWAY .1 FUTURE NEIGHBORHOOD SCENARIO This Greenway Neighborhood scenario Is a The Future Neighborhood Scenario offers an example of one possible way that new neighborhoods could develop in an concept that maximizes connectivity to allow area immediately around the new Archibald Alexander Elementary School. The purpose of this exercise is not to prescribe greater access to nelghborhood assets such as a precise layout and mix of uses that are required for future development or to preclude development In other areas of parks, trails, and schools. Residential areas pro - the district. Rather, the scenario is meant to demonstrate how, based on topography and existing features jeasements, vide an attractive and vibrant mix of well - major roads, and established trail or street connections) the area could develop in accord with Iowa City's subdivision reg- designed housing types and densities. The ulations, zoning code, and the goals for walkability and sense of place included in this district plan. The scenario illustrates neighborhood concept is anchored by a small, a potential street network and a mix of housing types, locations of parks, open space, and trails, as well as commercial or mixed -use commercial area. mixed use areas. As development occurs, each subdivision will contribute to the overall quality and sustainability of the entire district by enhancing walkability and connectivity. Preserving opportunity for a small neighborhood commercial or mixed use devel- opment at the Intersection of McCollister Boulevard and Sycamore Street may help to create a community anchor for the surrounding neighborhoods. 21 22 WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL PLACE? Great public spaces are where cele- brations are held, social and eco- nomic exchanges take place, friends run into each other, and cultures mix. They are the "front porches" of our public institu- tions —libraries, fields houses, neighborhood schools —where we interact with each other and the government. When the spaces work well, they serve as a stage for our public lives. (From the Project for Public Spaces. http:// www.pps.org/reference/ grplacefeat.) WHAT MAKES A GREAT PLACE? #10 • NEYATMIMTES • tNTANUMIS MEASUREMENTS PROJECT FOR PUBLIC h-JSPACES e`Y£�.SNq N$d vvl" vPisw ,"aae soiks Iccoa V'oixc Ow en';q PLACE fcAe'siw^4., tivity PAY14M9 kale fat pvn.s s."' )"�A.usc ?"Vert-y valm, it '64 S.Ies SanfFm'v�04 T..1t4NC� When asked what they like best about living in South Iowa City, participants in the planning work- shop and on-line survey most frequently noted convenience, affordability, access to open space and trails, and the diversity of its population and neighborhoods. While work, shopping, and schools (k- 12`h grade) are just a short car trip away for most residents of the district, South Iowa City's neigh- borhoods feel like a retreat from the hustle and bustle of life in areas closer to the Downtown and University Campus. Respondents frequently used adjectives such as quiet, green, and family -friendly to describe their neighborhoods. However, the broader public perception of South Iowa City is something altogether different. Resi- dents point to media reports, real estate agents, and public debates over school district boundaries and affordable housing as frequently perpetuating a misperception about what life is like in this part of the community. Through a variety of surveys, interviews, and focus groups, the Broadway Neigh- borhood Center has engaged residents in identifying the particular challenges and opportunities that exist in South Iowa City, especially for renters and low income or minority residents. The results of their efforts along with the planning process undertaken for this district planning update coalesce around three priorities: • Fostering a stronger sense of community —one that embraces renters and other residents who are new to the community. • Expanding organized activities for the high population of youth and children, including mentor- ing for low-income and minority teens. • Projecting a positive image of South Iowa City reflective of its many assets, especially its many environmental features. The opening of Archibald Alexander Elementary is widely regarded as a pivotal event for achieving all of these goals. The school and the development anticipated around it provide a catalyst for trans- forming the image of South Iowa City and strengthening the sense of community for those who live here. Also, reducing the strain on Grant Wood, which the Iowa City Community School District con- siders overcrowded, will help make the existing neighborhood more attractive to families with school age children. The density of single-family development and a well-connected street system that surrounds Grant Wood Elementary make it one of the most walkable neighborhood schools in the entire school district. WHAT RESIDENTS LIKE ABOUT SOUTH IOWA CITY: "Near enough to get whatever I need, but far enough away to enjoy my life." "Diverse, affordable, close to schools." "Natural landscapes, close to downtown, quiet." "I like the mix of residents— age, ethnicity, income, education, homeowners, renters, singles, couples, families." "Near several parks and close enough to downtown to commute by bus, bike, or walking." "Lots of families. Friendly, inclusive attitude." 23 FxI NEIGHBORHOOD QUALITY —GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following goals and objectives far neighborhood quality were developed from input gathered during the South District Planning process. Achieving these goals will require a cooperative effort. Some actions may be implemented by the City, however many are more appropriately initiated by residents, neighborhood associations, community groups, schools, businesses, or other stakehold- ers in South Iowa City. GOAL 1: Foster a strong and inclusive sense of community in South Iowa City neighborhoods. A. Create or support opportunities for residents and neighbors to get to know each other. • Continue support for block parties, "Parry in the Park" events, and other neighborhood gath- erings —movies, music, art, etc. • Support Blue Zones efforts to get people active by hosting regular walking and biking events on the South District trails. Encourage the establishment of festivals or other special events that celebrate the unique qualities of South Iowa City, including its cultural diversity. For ex- ample: commercial areas could encourage social activity by hosting special events —farmers markets, food truck night, live music, dance, roller derby, etc. • Support special events that re -introduce the larger community to South Iowa City. For exam- ple: encourage non -profits to host run, walk, and bike events on South Iowa City's trails. B. Reinforce a shared experience of place. • Identify areas within the district that can be enhanced with public art, community gardens, improved bus stops, lighting, or other features that encourage social gathering or interaction. • Reinforce local identity through the consistent use of identifiable visual elements in street signs, bus stops, kiosks, streetscape improvements, banners, etc. • Establish an inventory of names that reflect the unique history and geography of South Iowa City to be used for future street and place names (e.g. park or trail names) within the district. • Consider using mailbox clusters as space for neighborly interaction working with developers to including trail maps, bulletin boards, seating, plantings or other features that encourage neighbors to get to know one another. (This may involve PIN grants.) Locate mailbox clusters in areas that are appropriate and welcoming for neighbors to linger (e.g. pocket parks or ad- jacent to private open space or trails). C. Welcome new residents and help orient them to their new community. Such an effort should involve a broad collaboration of neighborhood groups, businesses, realtors, and developers. Consider updating the Newcomer's Guide on the City's website, and actively promote the site as one -stop -shopping for new residents, including links to neighborhood groups and pro- gramming. • Continue to improve outreach to minorities and non-English speaking residents to encourage their active participation in neighborhood events and awareness of city programs and pro- cesses. This may require translation services. D. Encourage and support residents, neighborhood organizations, and business and property owners to advocate for the continued improvement of Southside neighborhoods in keeping with the goals of the Comprehensive Plan. • Provide open and proactive communication between the City and Southside neighbors through the timely dissemination of information on grant opportunities, capital improve- ments, development proposals, and zoning applications. • Continue support for Neighborhood Outreach as an essential resource for neighborhood in- formation and organization efforts. • Continue support for community policing and encourage bike and foot patrols to make police officers a friendly and visible part of the neighborhood. E. Create and sustain vibrant social gathering spaces. Explore the potential for a community center as an anchor for neighborhood activity/identity. This will likely require partnerships (and fundraising) between organizations that have a need for expanded facilities —local non -profits, Bike Library, local foods organizations, arts organi- zations, etc. • Consider opportunities for community use of the resource center and gymnasium space at Grant Wood Elementary and the expanded gym at Archibald Alexander. • Explore opportunities for a satellite library or other services or programming. 25 Participants at the South District Planning work- shop were invited to suggest a tagline or motto to convey a true sense of what makes living in South Iowa City great. One group came up with the phrase "start here, stay here" to express the many opportunities that exist in South Iowa City for people of all ages, especially young families. (zj r" +pil'3M1 !A w Photo: Anne Duggan Youth Off -Road Riders, a program focused on competitive and recreational cycling sponsored by the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County. Photo from Diversity Focus Youth Performance Arts Academy sponsored by The Dream Center. Non-profit organizations like the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, The Dream Center, and The Spot are providing unique opportunities for children and youth in South Iowa City, Including training, tutoring, mentorship, and recreational programs. F. Promote community stewardship and investment by engaging residents in improving their neighborhood. • Encourage annual volunteer events to bring neighbors together —park improvement events, street or yard clean-ups, recycling days, neighborhood garage sale or swap events, etc. • Engage neighborhood groups in planning for the improvement of the south portion of Wetherby Park as development surrounds the park. Design this process as an opportunity to strengthen community connection. • Involve youth groups in planning for and undertaking improvements and advocacy efforts in the district. For example: trail/park clean-ups, tree planting, public art, special event organiz- ing, community gardens. GOAL 2. Expand opportunities for children and youth in South Iowa City. A. Support the establishment of quality, affordable daycare and preschool in South Iowa City. • Encourage childcare services as development and redevelopment occurs in both commercial and residential zones, especially in areas near Grant Wood and Archibald Alexander Elemen- tary Schools. • Consider incentives to attract daycare to the area identified for future neighborhood com- mercial and promote availability of daycare as an asset to attract new families to the district. B. Continue support for before and afterschool programming at Grant Wood and Archibald Alexander and elementary and summer programming at Southside parks and schools. C. Support efforts to address the needs of children and youth in South Iowa City. • Identify and address obstacles to participation in existing programs. • Identify potential funding sources —public and private —to expand programming or support participation among area youth. • Pursue partnerships and scholarships with existing arts and athletic and other community programs to ensure that children can participate in extracurricular activities. • Explore feasibility of a Youth Corps program to engage young people, especially low income and minority youth, in neighborhood improvement, skill training, etc. For example: a Youth Green Corps could assist with programs focused on improving the district and create oppor- tunity for young people to meet, learn from, and complete projects for various city divisions as well as neighborhood groups and businesses. WA GOAL 3. Focus on South Iowa City as a sustainable district by promoting its many advantages: housing affordability and choice, access to work and recreation, cultural diversity, neighborhood WHAT'S IN A NAME? connectivity and walkability, alternative transportation, and environmental conservation. "Place names are also symbols to which people attach meaning and from which they A. Acknowledge and promote the environmental, social, and economic benefits of draw identity .... They are one of the most fun- walkability for South Iowa City. damental ways in which people connect with • Support the principles of compact, walkable development in all new neighborhoods. places." —Derek Alderman °Place °The Names. Encyclopedia oJHuman Geography. Sage • Actively plan for bus service expansion, ensuring a density of development that will sup- Pubilcaem,s (zoos) port extension of bus routes along major arterials. A list of potential street names for South • Extend the Highway 6 trail system and create better pedestrian connections to commer- Iowa City: cial and industrial properties along both sides of the Highway. Geologic: Sperry, Garwin, walford, Zook, Cob, • Complete the circuit of trails that connect South Iowa City's parks and neighborhoods as Ely, Ackmore, Houghton, Elvira, Loess, Lake development occurs. Calvin, Dune, Swale • Ensure that future commercial nodes located south of Highway 6 are pedestrian and bicy- Birds: Dowitcher, Sandpiper, Avocet, Pelican, cle friendly and enhance opportunities for extension of public transit. Plover, Scaup, Grebe, Merganser, Teal, Bittern, Other animals: Bullfrog, Peeper, Chorus Frog, B: Accentuate South Iowa City s connection to the environment and outdoor recreation. Sandshell, Heelsplitter, Papershell, Slider, Box Turtle, Painted Turtle • Incorporate trees and other landscaping features along major rights -of -way as part of in- frastructure improvement projects. Plants: Puccoon, Penstemmon, vervain, Trefoil, Switchgrass, Bluestem, Lobelia, Sedge, Anemo- • Provide distinctive landscaping, including low -maintenance native plantings at major en- ne, Wild Iris, Arrowwood, Buttonbush, trances to South Iowa City and at intersections of arterial streets. Environmentalists: Ding Darling, Leopold, Car- • Consider unique signage, public art, and other amenities such as bus shelters, seating, and son, Pammel, Hayden, Madson, Macerlde, wayfinding along major rights of way. Rhodes, Seiberling • Collaborate with developers and realtors in promoting South Iowa City's environmental Mesqualde names: wacochachl, Poweshlek, and recreational assets. Bear, Fox, Thunder, wolf Historic: Trading House, Ripple, Trowbridge, C. Maximize resource conservation in South Iowa City. Morford, Felkner, Sanders, Howard, McNeil • Consider recycling receptacles at public parks and other public facilities, especially high use areas such as Terry Trueblood Recreation Area and Kickers Soccer Park. • Offer incentives or assistance for planning "no -waste" events that make use of recyclable/ compostable materials. • Encourage all city -sponsored events in the district to maximize use of recycling and local 28 purchasing. Promote energy and water conservation features of new development. Identify buildings or sites that could benefit from solar arrays, reflective rooftops, other energy/conservation upgrades such as new windows, lighting, entryway improvements, plug-in stations, and improved bike, pedestrian, and bus facilities. Recognize private sector investment in energy conservation efforts. D. Initiate a multi -year effort to draw visitors to South Iowa City focusing on area parks, trails, and environmental areas. Yellow Velo is a concession stand and bike rental that . Partner with organizations to host seasonal park -to -park bike or running event showcasing operates in City Park during the summeraspart ofthe the Iowa River Corridor Trail. Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County's youth em- ployment program. The program provides employment • Maximize use of Kickers Soccer Park, including tournaments, club and recreational soccer, andjob skill training for neighborhood youth to sell sim- ultimate Frisbee, etc. ple, healthy food (much of it locally produced). A similar program might be considered for a park in South Iowa • As part of Blue Zones efforts, organize walking clubs at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area city, for targeted demographics —senior walk days, mommy meet -ups, etc. In the City of Literature, access to reading materials is a priority —one that the Antelope Lending Library takes seriously. The mobile library was founded (and driven) by Cassandra Elton, a graduate student in library science who works at Grant Wood Elementary's after school pro- gram. For many families getting to the library downtown is difficult, so Antelope Library brings the books to them, providing service at area parks in South Iowa City and other neighborhoods. • Promote events that focus on South Iowa City's environmental assets, such as bird watch- ing, fishing, prairie restoration, etc. F. Incorporate local foods, art, and culture as part of revitalization efforts. • Extend the City of Literature and other arts programming to South Iowa City. • Support efforts to celebrate South Iowa City's unique cultural diversity. Consider affordable or under-utilized sites for potential indoor or outdoor facilities for arts and cultural programming or local food production or distribution and encourage partnerships between such programs to enhance funding opportunities and shared re- sources. Parks, Trails, and Open Space Open space is, perhaps, the defining feature of the South Planning District, which has nearly 380 acres of public land, including eight parks —more than any other planning district in the city. An addi- tional 200 acres of wetlands are preserved in a private conservation area just south of the Saddle - brook development in the far eastern portion of the planning district. In addition, South Iowa City is home to Friendly Farm —Johnson County's only urban organic farm —and Pleasant Valley Golf Course. Community members, neighborhood groups, non -profits, and athletic organizations have participat- ed in shaping and improving South Iowa City's parks and trails —including advocating for preserva- tion of environmentally sensitive areas, fundraising for improvements, designing new features, and sponsoring programming. Many participants in the on-line survey and planning workshop noted that ready access to parks, trails, and unique natural features is what drew them to the area. Existing Parks Terry Trueblood Recreation Area: Developed on the site of a former sand dredging pond just east of the Iowa River, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (TTRA) is one of Johnson County's premier nature areas, a birding "hotspot," and the crown jewel of South Iowa City's "emerald necklace" of parks. The idea for developing the former sand dredging pond as park was a goal included in the 1997 South District Plan. The 207-acre recreation park, which opened in 2013, encompasses a 95-acre lake that includes a beach, fishing jetties, and boat ramps. In addition to operating a concession stand, a private vendor provides canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rental during warm weather and ice skate rental during the winter. The Park Lodge has become a popular venue for weddings, parties, and other events and meetings. The two-mile bike/pedestrian trail that circles the lake links into the Iowa River Trail providing a safe and pleasant off -road commute to the UI campus and Riverfront Crossings District. With the purchase of riverfront land to the west of the lake, there are plans to add camp sites and related facilities in the future. Photo by e}ndi Ambrose Open space and access to unique natural areas are two defining characteristics of south Iowa City. Above, a sunset view of fishing at the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. 30 A view of the pond at Sand Prairie. Kickers Soccer Park draws hundreds of players from throughout eastern Iowa to south Iowa City during the play- ing season. Both recreational and club leagues use the site. Sand Prairie Park: A remnant of a very rare type of prairie, Sand Prairie Park provides and attractive entranceway to the residential neighborhoods south of the Crandic Railroad and affords impressive sunset views over the Iowa River. The property was once home to the Ornate Box Turtle, a protect- ed species in the state of Iowa. In anticipation of development that would reduce the area in which turtles could forage for food, more than 50 turtles were relocated another site by the Iowa Depart- ment of Natural Resources. Forty-six acres were preserved thanks to the cooperative effort of neighborhood residents, natural- ists, the Iowa City Parks Department, and Southgate Development. Concerned Citizens for Sand Prai- rie Preservation (CCSPP), a local non-profit formed to preserve the site and provided detailed re- search on its ecological significance. Working with Randall Arendt, a nationally renowned conserva- tion landscape architect, Southgate Development designed a residential subdivision that clustered housing in order to preserve the prairie, setting aside 18 acres for permanent open space. The re- maining land was acquired by the Iowa Natural Heritage and transferred to city ownership in 2005. Whispering Meadows: Whispering Meadows Wetland Park is a 17-acre park constructed on property donated to the City by a local development company. The land was previously used for row crops, but was poorly drained and contained 3 wetlands. Geoscience professor Lon Drake worked with the City to develop the park concept. The park was established in 1994 and planted to represent three botanical communities: wetland, wet meadow, and mesic prairie. Beaver are occasional residents of the park, which contains a pond with a boardwalk and a trail. Due to lack of maintenance, many of the plants were lost and the park has been overwhelmed by reed canary grass —an invasive species. Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the park can function as a wetland and to ensure that it does not become an eyesore for adjacent private property owners. Napoleon Park: Napoleon Park is a 29-acre softball facility and a trailhead for the Iowa River Corridor Trail. The park was established in 1978 as the home to Iowa City Girls Softball, an affiliate of the Parks and Recreation Department. This non-profit organization provides recreation softball opportu- nities for K-12 girls. The park currently provides 8 ball fields as well as restrooms and a concession stand. Kickers Soccer Park: Located on the south edge of the district adjacent to the Wastewater Treatment Plant, Kickers Soccer Park is a 108-acre sports complex with 20 soccer pitches in addition to 2 base- ball fields. The park was established on land that was acquired for the wastewater plant and uses graywater to irrigate fields. It is home to the Iowa City Kickers recreational league, a non-profit or- ganization that provides soccer opportunities for youth (k-12v' grade) in Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, and surrounding communities. The park is connected to neighborhoods to the north by the Sycamore Greenway Trail. Fairmeadows Park: This 5-acre neighborhood park serving the Grant Wood neighborhood, was es- tablished in 1966 on property adjacent to Grant Wood Elementary School. In many ways the park and school playground function together serving both the school and the neighborhood. The Park includes a splash pad, playground, open playing field, picnic shelter, and restrooms. In 2014 the Public art Program commissioned a mural atthe park. Given its location near the school and high density multi -family, the park serves as much needed play space for many neighborhood children. The lack of supervision at the park has sometimes created a nuisance for neighbors, but the splash pad has provided much needed neighborhood attraction. Residents would like to see additional improvements at the park, including lighting and soccer nets. Wetherby Paris: This 24-acre neighborhood park was established in 1975. In addition to a splash - pad, picnic shelter, bastketball court, playground, playing fields, and Frisbee golf, the park features community garden plots and is the home to Backyard Abundance Edible Forest. The Wetherby Friends neighborhood association was instrumental in securing funds for installation of the splash - pad and renovation of the picnic shelter. Wetherby now is one of Iowa City s most actively used parks and has helped to foster the sense of community that residents seek. However, limited street access creates a barrier for park users. Street access is important for visibility —thaYs how people know a park is there. It also allows such a large park to be more actively supervised, used, and maintained by both the city and neighborhood. While the north end of the park is developed for active uses, the south end is isolated and offers few features. Additional vehicle parking and pedestrian access along with improvements to the south end of the park should occur with resi- dential development. Opportunities to expand street visibility should be explored. Sycamore Greenway: Though not technically part of the Iowa City park system, the Sycamore Greenway is an important public open space feature of the district. The corridor functions as a stormwater detention and filtration area that reduces flooding and improves water quality for the Iowa River (see page 9). The wetlands are home to a diverse population of woodland, prairie, and riparian species and are a birding hotspot. The 2.2-mile South Sycamore Greenway trail is an- chored at the north by Grant Wood Elementary and Kickers Soccer Park to the south. Wetherby Park is a major neighborhood attraction, but with street access limited to Taylor Drive, the park lacks visibility and accessibility for both vehicles and pedestrians. Opportu- nities for additional access points, including active street frontage; should be explored to Improve overall awareness of the park and to help foster a sense of ownership by the broader neighborhood. Splash pads at Fairmeadows and Wetherby Parks are a sum- mertime attraction to South Iowa City neighborhoods. [photo murtesy the Daily lovnn] 31 32 Workshop participants envisioned unique signage to help solidify the image of South Iowa City as a green district and a sort of playground for the community based on its access to parks, open space and trails. The north trailhead for the Sycamore Greenway is en- hanced with two artistic pillars that call attention to and celebrate the trail and the cultural diversity of the Grant Wood Neighborhood. The public art project was jointly sponsored by the Iowa City Public Art Program, Grant Wood Neighborhood Association, and City High School. A vision for the future Broader community awareness of the parks and natural areas in the district could help to improve the image of South Iowa City. One suggestion that received popular support in the public workshop was the idea of promoting South Iowa City as a "Green" District. This effort could be extended be- yond park boundaries to include wayfinding and aesthetic enhancements (e.g. trees and landscap- ing) along major street corridors (Highway 6, McCollister Boulevard, and South Gilbert and Syca- more Street) or at identified "gateways" to South Iowa City. Participants in the planning workshop envision unique signage, bus stops, bicycle parking, trash and recycling receptacles, and public art to help to solidify this green image as part of a South Iowa City brand. While residents are supportive of new neighborhood development, they want developers to take a sensitive approach to subdivision design —one that improves connectivity and preserves natural features and a sense of open space. This includes providing logical connections to trails and visible access to parks; preserving and integrating unique environmental features as central components in new subdivisions (as was done with the Sand Prairie Preserve); and ensuring long-term mainte- nance and health of private open space, a responsibility that ultimately falls to homeowners' asso- ciations, by educating new homebuyers about the function and value of shared open space. Creating small pocket parks (1 acre or less) allows residential neighborhoods to develop with a healthy density while providing opportunities for the kind of social connection that fosters a sense of community. Providing visible access to public parks and open space, including single -loaded streets or well -designed pedestrian routes, helps to ensure that parks benefit the entire neighbor- hood and can have safety benefits as well. Volunteer projects and educational outreach are seen as useful ways to connect residents to envi- ronmental and other outdoor resources in the district and to encourage a sense of stewardship for communal spaces. Participants in the planning process strongly support efforts by the Parks De- partment, local organizations, and neighborhood associations to engage the public (especially school age children) with the natural environment, including South Iowa City's unique geology and natural history. (RH�fe fhmen A¢!. r The Parks and Recreation Department Mas- ter Plan (completed In 2009) includes com- munity interest inventory for park and rec- reation facilities and services. Respondents indicated a desire for walking and biking trails(79%), nature center and traits(68%), small neighborhood parks (68%), large community parks (66%1, and wildlife and natural areas (64%). The South District is unique among Iowa City's 10 planning dis- E tracts in that it provides all of these fach- ' ties. South District Public Parks 1. Napoleon Park (softball) 2. Sand Prairie Park 3. Terry Trueblood Recreation Area 4. Kickers Soccer Park S. Sycamore Greenway, 6. Whispering Meadows Wetland Park 7. Fairmeadows Park 8. Wetherby Park Y ■ i a] M Management of natural areas, such as the Sand Prairie and Sycamore Greenway, require controlled burning. Because the use of fire can raise concerns among neigh- borhood residents, it is important to engage the public with the many benefits of fire as well as the precautions taken to ensure its safe use. The Edible Forest at Wetherby Park is being established through a collaboration between the Parks Department and Backyard Abundance, a non-profit community group. PARKS, TRAILS AND OPEN SPACE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following goals and objectives were developed from input gathered during the South District Planning process. Some actions will be implemented by the City. Others will require the effort of residents, neighborhood associations, community groups, or other agencies or interested parties. Goal 1: Create broad community awareness of South Iowa City's extensive park and trail system and its unique environmental areas. • Support a collaborative partnership between neighborhood organizations, realtors, and other interest groups to build a "brand identity" for South Iowa City based on its parks and natural features —a "Green District." [See the Neighborhood Identity section of the plan, page #j • Encourage neighborhood associations, property owners, developers, and realtors to promote South Iowa City's green elements and to ensure the long-term maintenance of it's parks and open spaces. This could be achieved with signage, brochures, educational outreach, web or other on-line efforts, etc. • Enhance major street corridors and public rights -of -way to build a unified identity for South Iowa City based on its recreational and natural features. For example: trees, native landscaping, unique gateway signs, transit stops, or art reflective of the area's green components. • Choose street, subdivision, and other place names that refer to natural features of the district, such a plants, animals, soils, geologic formations, local environmentalists, etc. • As development around Wetherby Park occurs, encourage subdivision designs that maximize visibility and access to the park. Goal 2. Preserve environmentally sensitive features and ensure long-term stewardship for the benefit of the neighborhood and the community. • Where possible, incorporate environmental features as integral elements of subdivision de- signs. • Encourage developers to collaborate with homeowner or neighborhood associations and real - tors to promote these natural elements as integral features of their development. Goal 3: Plan, create, and improve parks and other open space that foster social interaction and a sense of community within the neighborhoods. • Encourage small pocket parks (1 acre or less) in new neighborhoods as they develop, especially in future neighborhood east of Sycamore Street. • Include a small open space or a plaza in conjunction with neighborhood commercial site to serve as a community gathering spot. • Encourage usable private open space in association with future multi -family and townhome de- velopments that do not otherwise have direct access to public open space. • Identify opportunities to establish additional community gardens and partner with neighbor- hood groups and non -profits to ensure appropriate maintenance of these spaces. • Engage the neighborhood in planning for improvements at the south end of Wetherby Park as residential neighborhoods develop along its border and ensure additional pedestrian and vehicle access to the park with appropriate and safe transitions between residential properties and pub- lic space. • Consider the feasibility of a small off -leash dog area in South Iowa City. • Explore development potential of the former sand dredging pond on the east side of Gilbert Street. If soil stability is not appropriate for development, consider potential for recreational or community use of the site (e.g. gardens, urban agriculture, outdoor performance space, etc.). Goal 4: Pursue partnerships with neighborhood and community organizations, non -profits, and schools to promote stewardship and use of existing parks. • Support efforts by local organizations to increase appreciation of South Iowa City's natural fea- tures among residents, including children and youth, through educational and volunteer pro- grams. • Inspire neighborhood/community preservation and stewardship of natural areas by promoting its function as wildlife habitat, stormwater filtration, flood control, etc. Goal 5: Provide appropriate trail links between parks, neighborhoods, and the new school. • Ensure safe access between the new elementary school and surrounding neighborhoods and parks. • Provide a connection between Wetherby Park and Sand Prairie Park. Provide trail link or wide sidewalk to connect the south end Terry Trueblood Recreation Area and the Sycamore Greenway Trail. A sand dredging pond located along the east side of Gil- bert Street, nearTerry Trueblood Recreation Area, is currently being filled. Future development potential will depend on stability of the fill. If it is determined that the site is not suitable for residential uses, the property cculd be adapted for park, recreation, or another com- munity use. 35 36 As development continues In the South District, the following map will help guide property acquisition for trails that connect with the existing network of trails and oth- er bicycle facilities. Wetherby Park will beat the heart of new development In the area and trail connec- tions to Sand Prairie, Trueblood Recreation Area, and the Sycamore Greenway will provide residents with unique recreation opportunities, access to local natural re- sources, and Indirectly encourage physical activity. The Sycamore Greenway could expand into the Kickers Soccer Park to Improve access for disabled visitors and provide a loop for walking and biking. Extending connections to the Greenway from Paddock Circle or as wide sidewalks along the future alignment of McCollister Boulevard will also increase use of this resource. Another Important addition to the trans- portation network Is the planned trail ex- tension along Highway 6, which will con- nect residential, commercial, and manufac- turing land uses— allowing residents to walk and bike between these destinations. YRIENDLYAVE uc><alg63 avt � U ws-atE P�f'i•nR G F# EADewe awa PdRK Lal'E OR P PRAIRIE i • SVI 1 eRN Z blaad ` •+• �l� I bfq@i11011 ME33CEH s •' For . a WS y,� •• r • Y .Q + � �.IaRra epnarr, RE • www p tnr• }6 i i UTH HkkV Trd ®BkeL" s WORE EIWAT OM dreg Paved —,. Paved ShoWder • Path & AQtldA Proposed oiFaVed On -street route e s CER TY is PwM1- path Prdandire t Adriamle � �•• Vide SWewdl Proposed Vide � Gravel Road Sidewalk ®Dirt Road iwuw a+qw Streets, Trails, and Sidewalks Arterial Streets Arterial streets are the main travel corridors of the city, the primary function of which is to carry traffic through and between neighborhoods. In general, maintaining efficient automobile traffic flow on arterial streets helps to prevent cut -through traffic on local residential streets. Modern arterial street design is intended to accommodate bicycles and pedestrians as well as motorized vehicles. Trees and other landscaping in the right-of-way, between the sidewalk and the street, provide additional separation, creating a safer and more inviting environment for pedestrians and a welcoming entrance into the adjacent neighborhoods. While the design of any specific arterial street is dependent on its context, the basic principles remain the same: provide adequate infrastructure to accommodate anticipated traffic volumes and comfortable and safe environments for pedestrians and bicyclists. The South District is served by four arterial streets: U.S. Highway 6, McCollister Boulevard, South Gilbert Street, and South Sycamore Street. Due to a lack of connectivity within the local street system, South Iowa City's arterial streets have taken on a heightened role as travel corridors for all modes of transportation. U.S. Highway 6, a divided four -lane roadway, crosses the entire Planning District forming its northern boundary. As a federal highway, it functions as a regional vehicular corridor connecting surrounding communities. Because it is the sole east -west travel route for South Iowa City, High- way 6 is an integral connection between residential neighborhoods and commercial and employ- ment areas. Many residents of south side neighborhoods rely on the highway for their daily trips, even within the district. Much of South Iowa City's identity, for better or worse, is tied to the highway. Its significance —both as a connection and as barrier —should not be overlooked. Though it provides a convenient and efficient corridor for automobiles moving across the dis- trict, Highway 6 was originally designed and constructed as a federal highway with few accom- modations for non -motorists. Commercial and industrial properties along the corridor are orien- tated toward the highway and have little integration with the local streets that serve the adja- cent neighborhoods. Iowa City constructed a paved trail along the south side of Highway 6, beginning at the Iowa Riv- er (where it branches off from the Iowa River Corridor Trail) and travels along the commercial corridor, just east of Broadway Street (at the Casey's). Extending the trail will provide better con- nection between neighborhoods at the east end of the district, including manufactured housing " A body without good bones will fall apart. .. Streets are the bones of communities. A community that lacks good streets will suffer in its economy, its social well-being, and its health." —Robert Steuteville, Better Cities, Better Towns (2015) "if there is one class of improvements which Is more necessary, which becomes more permanent and unalterable, or which exerts a stronger influence upon the indi- viduality and general physical aspect of the city, than any other, it is the layout of the streets. The street layout deter- mines, in a very large degree, how the people shall live, how they shall travel to and fro, how they shall work and play; it has a direct influence upon the character of the home and its surroundings, upon the safety, comfort and convenience of the people, and upon the efficiency of govern- ment and the public service." —B. Antrim Haldeman (1914) 37 38 The Highway 6Trall is an important route for pedestrians and bicyclists, providing a route along the Highway from Gilbert Street east to Taylor Drive and Hollywood Boule- vard. Extension of the trail to the east will require engi- neering to coverthe drainage area that runs along the The extension of McCollister Boulevard between Gilbert and Sycamore Streets will provide much needed east - west connectivity for residential areas located south of Highway 6. parks and multi -family and commercial areas to the west. It will also extend the reach of the trail network for recreational bicyclists. The trail extension is currently on the unfunded Capital Improve- ments Project (CIP) list. According to the 2010 Census, South Iowa City is home to nearly 1,800 school age children. Some of the highest densities of children live in the multi -family and manufactured housing developments along the highway corridor and near Pepperwood Plaza. Because the junior and senior high schools and one elementary school that serves the South District, are all located north of the highway along with the public library, public recreation centers, and most medical and health services, families with children often cross the highway on a daily basis. Crossing Highway 6, particularly east of Sycamore Street, can be challenging. East of Fairmeadows Dr./Industrial Park Road, there are also no sidewalks or trails to serve the industrial uses along the north side of the highway, which employ many residents of South Iowa City. Without the requisite sidewalk facilities to connect into, there are no pedestrian crossings along this portion of the High- way and limited lighting for those who choose to cross in these areas. For residents, especially those who don't have cars or with limited access to cars, this creates a considerable impediment. Many participants in the planning workshop and online survey asked for safer crossings over Highway 6 to link residents with the rest of Iowa City and especially employment opportunities, shopping, and schools north of the highway. Many called for a pedestrian bridge —an expensive option that re- quires a significant amount of space given the flat topography of the area. Others requested longer walk signals to cross the wide roadway. McCollister Boulevard is a planned and much anticipated east -west arterial street that will eventual- ly connect across the South Planning district from the Iowa River east to Heinz Road and then on to Scott Boulevard. An extension of Mormon Trek Boulevard, McCollister Boulevard begins at South Riverside Drive (Old Highway 218), crossing the river into South Iowa City and intersecting South Gil- bert Street before entering into the Sand Hill Estates development where it currently terminates at the city limits. With Highway 6 serving as the only east -west connection across the district, neighborhoods to the east of Wetherby Park and Sycamore Street seem distant from neighborhoods immediately to the west. Neighborhoods east of the Sycamore Greenway are similarly isolated from the larger district, including the new school. An extension of McCollister Boulevard east to Scott Boulevard is essential for providing east -west connectivity and provides an alternative commuter route connecting with Highway 218 and interstate 380. Work on this extension will likely occur as land is annexed into the city and developed. For many, the visual image of South Iowa City is tied to Highway 6 and its commercial and industrial properties. Residents see the extension of McCollister Boulevard as an important opportunity to draw attention to the diverse and family -friendly neighborhoods that lie south of the highway. Par- ticipants in the workshop and on-line survey expressed a desire for a pleasant arterial street that unifies and connects neighborhoods across the district. Because McCollister Boulevard will pass through the heart of South Iowa City's residential neighborhoods, it should be a welcoming, pedes- trian and bike friendly street that is easy to cross and that sets the tone for future development. Buildings on either side of McCollister Boulevard should be oriented toward the street to prevent the corridor from being lined with residential privacy fences. South Sycamore Street is the spine providing a north -south travel route for neighborhoods east of Wetherby Park. This important roadway enters the northern edge of the District at Highway 6 and continues south before making a 90 degree turn to the west (the Sycamore "L") where it currently intersects with South Gilbert Street. Along with Gilbert Street it provides connectivity to Riverfront Crossings and Downtown commercial as well as employment areas and schools north of Highway 6. The northern portion of Sycamore Street was originally constructed as a four lane road and later re - striped to provide a center turn lane as well as shared lane bicycle markings on both north and southbound travel lanes. The reconstruction of the south portion of Sycamore Street will provide an improved connection to Archibald Alexander Elementary School. South of Langenberg the paved roadway will narrow retaining on -street bike lanes, but eliminating the continuous center turn lane. A wide (8 ft.) sidewalk will be provided on the west side of the road and a 5 ft. sidewalk on the east. The remaining right-of-way width will be dedicated to wider parkways (14 feet on the east and 24 feet on the west), which will allow space for street trees (to be planted one year after road construc- tion). Roundabouts are planned at the future intersection with McCollister Boulevard and where Sycamore turns west at the "L." Cross section of the South Sycamore St extension Y SR. 14 fL 6 fL 11 ft. 11 tt 6 fL 24 ft. 8 ft. Two priorities for South Sycamore Street emerged from the planning process: slowing vehicle speeds and cre- ating a more attractive and welcoming entrance to the neighborhoods. Above: a section of Sycamore near High- way 6, where streettrees have been established. Below: Further south on Sycamore subdivisions with rear or side yards face the street often result in a street corridor lined with privacy fences. 40 Onvinq-ontr trarrepanation MNem Waftole cei ecte4 transoorstan network STREET LAYOUT AND WALKABULTY Street layout can increase or reduce the opportuni- ty for children to walk or bicycle to school. In some areas, the layout of subdivision streets makes routes to school much longer than they need to be —so much so that they become impractical. Neighborhoods developed with long blocks and numerous cul-de-sacs become barriers to walking and bicycling to school as they reduce connectivity and increase travel distance between the home and school. Iowa City's current subdivision regulations (adopted in 2008) limit block lengths along local and collector streets to 300-600 feet and require each subdivision to contribute to the larger con- nected street pattern. Sidewalks are required along all streets. Cul-de-sacs are discouraged except in those areas where due to topography or other conditions, a street connec- tion would be impractical. South Gilbert Street provides access to residential neighborhoods west of Wetherby Park, a river crossing at the McCollister Boulevard Bridge, the Napoleon Park softball complex and the newly de- veloped Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (TTRA) before continuing on into the county as Sand Road. Gilbert Street is an important entranceway and connection between the South District and Down- town Iowa City and the University's east campus. The city anticipates greater use of the road as de- velopment occurs around the new south elementary school, including subdivisions that connect into McCollister and Gilbert Streets. Reconstruction of South Gilbert Street is planned from Benton Street to Stevens Drive but does not include any improvements to the Highway 6 intersection, how- ever it is unlikely these plans will be implemented in the near future. Long-term anticipated arterial improvements: 420' Street/Scott Boulevard and McCollister Boulevard intersection: 4201h Street east of Highway 6 has been converted from a rural road to a collector street with public utilities, turn lanes, curb -and -gutter, and sidewalks. The new road serves as the main access to the new industrial park east of the Scott -Six Industrial Park. In the future, intersection improvements for the industrial park will take place south of Highway 6 at Scott Boulevard and the McCollister Boulevard extension. South Arterial: A future two-lane east -west arterial is contemplated within the growth area approxi- mately 2 miles south of U.S. Highway 6. The new arterial would become an integral part of the city's major street network, providing a new east -west connection between U.S. 218, Old Highway 218, Sand Road, and Sycamore Street. Local Streets The primary function of local streets is to provide access to individual properties and to facilitate circulation within a neighborhood. Local streets in the northern part of the South District are gener- ally arranged in a curvilinear pattern with longer block lengths and numerous cul-de-sacs. This type of street pattern relies on collector streets that "collect" the traffic from the cul-de-sacs and other local streets in a neighborhood and funnel it to the arterials. This type of street system can result in an inefficient transportation network that overburdens certain streets with traffic, discourages walk- ing and biking and results in inefficiencies to provide services such as public transit, garbage collec- tion, snow plowing, mail delivery, and emergency services. Iowa City's subdivision regulations (adopted 2008) help to ensure that future neighborhoods will be designed with better connectivity by establishing a limit on block lengths, discouraging cul-de-sacs, and requiring streets to be extended (stubbed) to the edge of the subdivision. The subdivision regu- lations also require each subdivision to "contribute to the larger interconnected street pattern to ensure street connectivity between neighborhoods, multiple travel routes resulting in diffusion and distribution of traffic, efficient routes for public and emergency services, and to provide direct and continuous vehicular and pedestrian routes to neighborhood destinations." This not only ensures that a street pattern established in one subdivision can be readily extended through the next, but that the design of one subdivision does not preclude future subdivisions on adjacent property from developing in an efficient manner such that orientation and configuration of blocks is consistent and complementary between subdivisions. On local streets where the speed and or volume of traffic become excessive, the City's Traffic Calm- ing Program may be implemented. The program uses one or more approaches to reduce speeds or discourage cut -through traffic, including increased police enforcement, improved signage and other driver education techniques, and/or physical changes to the roadway such as speed humps and traf- fic circles. Streets in the South District that have been identified over the years as possible candi- dates for traffic calming include Hollywood Boulevard, Lakeside Drive, Langenberg Avenue, Whisper- ing Meadows Drive, and Whispering Prairie Avenue. Some of these neighborhoods have requested a traffic calming study and did not qualify. It is up to the residents along these streets to request that a traffic calming study be conducted by the City. If, based on a traffic study, the subject street is identified as an appropriate candidate for traffic calming, a majority of residents along the street must be in favor of any proposed traffic calming strategies before they will be considered. Complete streets The City has adopted a new "complete streets" policy. This means that all new streets as well as im- proved streets will be designed and constructed to accommodate all modes of transportation — cars, bicycles, pedestrians, and public transit and to provide ADA compliant curb ramps. South District workshop participants were overwhelmingly supportive of the effort to improve streets in the South District to facilitate and encourage use of alternative modes of transportation. In 2009, the City of Iowa City partnered with the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County to draft the Metro Bicycle Master Plan, which outlines new strategies to create an accessible and coordinated bike network throughout Iowa City and the larger metropolitan area. The Metro Bicycle Master Plan identifies opportunities for on -street bike routes, including a signed bike route along Sycamore Street and trail improvements along Gilbert Street. To increase awareness and ac- cess to the network, the plan also recommends that way -finding signs be installed on area trails. As mentioned previously, it is an important objective of the South District Plan to provide better way - finding signage along off-street trails and along area streets that are designated as bike routes. There are a number of streets in the South District that were constructed at a time when sidewalks were not required. Unfortunately, this has resulted in gaps in the district's sidewalk network. In ad- dition, residential areas that were developed outside the city limits were not required by the County "rhe City of Iowa City intends and expects to real- ize long-term cost savings In improved public health, reduced fuel consumption, better environ- mental stewardship, and reduced demand for motor vehicle infrastructure through the imple- mentation of its Complete Streets Policy. Com- plete Streets also contribute to walkable neigh- borhoods, make the community attractive to new business and employment, create a sense of com- munity pride, and improve quality -of -life.." — from the Iowa City Complete Street Policy (adopted March 23, 2015) "Since school zones are locations frequented by children, making the area safe for children at any time of day is a sound investment for the community." —Safe Routes to School National Partnership 41 42 to construct sidewalks. Due to increasing public demand for a complete sidewalk network, the City PRINCIPLES OF Council established a sidewalk infill program, whereby gaps are identified and funds set aside each year to construct missing pieces of the sidewalk network. Priority is given to main pedestrian routes, WAL K 0 B L ! TY such as routes to school and along arterial and collector streets. Subdivisions located in the County that are annexed into the city would become eligible for this sidewalk infill program. Proximity to home: AB How far is it? Is it practical to walk there? A B SLOW t SCHOOL Physical access & infrastructure: Sidewalks and trails to mark your path along with crosswalks, trafficsignals, and lighting to make it safe. s_ Pleasant factor: Separation from cars and traffic, shade trees, things to see along the way ... Places to go: A sensible mix of destinations, such as parks, schools, coffee shops, neigh- borhood activities. Improving pedestrian safety is also a priority. The City will continue to work with the school district to identify safe routes to schools. To improve pedestrian safety, marked crosswalks are typically painted at signalized intersections, at official school route crossings, and at other high -volume inter- sections. Public requests for marked crosswalks in other locations are evaluated carefully. While well -designed crosswalks are important to pedestrian safety, marking crosswalks at locations where driv- ers do not expect them or where pedestrian traffic is sporadic can actually reduce pedestrian safety by giving pedestrians a false sense of security when crossing the street. The City evaluates each pro- posed crosswalk to determine if it is warranted and safe. Walkability In general, participants in the on-line survey and community workshop find the South District walka- ble for recreational purposes, and are enthusiastic about the extensive trail system in South Iowa City. However, walking or biking to meet daily needs or for travel can be more challenging due to the lack of street connectivity (especially east to west) requiring heavy reliance on Sycamore Street and Highway 6 by all modes of transportation. Neighborhoods in the west portion of the district and those east of the Sycamore Greenway, includ- ing the manufactured housing parks, can feel isolated or cut off from many destinations within the district, including parks. This can present special challenges for children traveling to school or recrea- tional opportunities within the district as well as those in areas north of Highway 6. The extension of McCollister Boulevard and construction of new trail sections, including an extension of the Highway 6 trail, are seen as essential to creating better physical and social connection throughout the district. 43 Trails BENEFITS OF Trails are critical components of the South Districts transportation network. In addition to providing recreational opportunities, the trails offer low-cost, energy efficient transportation to schools, em- ployment, and commercial destinations. Notably, the South District offers access to two popular trails in the metro area: the Iowa River Trail and South Sycamore Greenway. The Iowa River Trail and Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (TTRA) directly link our community to out- Economic door activities and connect Southside residents to the Downtown Business District and University of save money: Iowa Campus. The 2.2-mile South Sycamore Greenway is anchored at the north by Grant Wood Ele- Transportation is r mentary and Kickers Soccer Park to the south. The Greenway functions as a stormwater detention the second largest area that reduces run-off into the Iowa River. As areas south of the school are annexed into the city, expense for Ameri- a trail connection or sidewalk will conned the Greenway to TTRA. can households. , 0 . Make money: r Public Transit 1 walk score point is worth$700-$3,0W in Public bus transit is a crucial part of the South Iowa City transportation system with more than home value. 500,000 rides annually on routes that serve the area. All Southside routes circulate through northern portion of the district and provide access to the commercial and industrial areas along Highway 6. Community Connection They include the Lakeside, Eastside Loop (during school), Mall, Cross Park, and Broadway routes. The Studies showthat forevery 10 minutes a per - Lakeside Route has the highest bus ridership of any route in Iowa City. son spends in a daily car commute, time spent in community activities falls by 10%. Residential development around the new elementary school in addition to weekend activity at Kick- People living in walkable neighborhoods trust ers Soccer Complex and Terry Trueblood Recreation Area may prompt changes to current bus neighbors more, participate in community pro - routes. There has long been support for loop routes that do not terminate downtown, but instead jects and volunteer more than in non -walkable provide residents with direct service to major shopping and employment areas. Commercial devel- areas. opment along both sides of the river, along Highways 6 and 1, (e.g. Walmart, Aldi's, Hy-Vee, Pepper- Health wood Plaza, and Sycamore Mall) could ideally be served as part of loop route. The absence of a grid system creates a challenge for extending service further into the residential neighborhoods and, be- . Men and women age 50 —71 who took a brisk cause there is no east -west connection across the district south of Highway 6, and minimal connec- • walk nearly every day tivity to areas east of the Greenway, potential bus routes are limited. The extension of McCollister had a 27%reduced death Boulevard will make for an efficient loop route and allow transit to reach more areas in the South rate compared to non - District. exerciser.;. Participants in the planning process expressed a desire for improved signage and transit information • The average resident of a walkable neighborhood at bus stops, and expanded hours of transit service, and service on Sundays. There is also a need for weighs 6 to 10 pounds additional bus shelters in some locations in the South District. Iowa City Transit will be addressing less than someone who many of these concerns as part of a comprehensive study of its current service. Bus stops are being lives Ina car -dependent neighbb orh0000d. redesigned and "Bongo' software makes route information and accurate arrival times accessible to the public by computer and smart phone. Wireless service is now available on all buses. Kn W Trees and other landscaping along arterial streets can help buffer neighboring homes from noise and other activity and provide a sense of comfort and safety for pedestrians. Roundabouts offer an opportunity to enhance the ap- pearance and identity of public streets. The above examples are from Holiday Road and 12th Avenue in Coralville. STREETS, TRAILS, SIDEWALKS —GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following goals and objectives for streets, trails, and sidewalks were formulated with input from participants in the planning workshop and on-line survey. Improvements to rights of -way, including sidewalks and trails, are the responsibility of the City and developers. GOAL 1: Improve connections between residential neighborhoods and commercial and industrial properties on both sides of Highway 6 and explore ways to reduce the barrier effect that this ma- jor traffic corridor has between South Iowa City and areas to the north. These improvements will require funding by Iowa City and/or grant funds as well as cooperation from the Iowa Depart- ment of Transportation. • Evaluate pedestrian crossings along the length of Highway 6 for safety improvement. • Construct pedestrian facilities that connect to industrial and commercial properties north of Highway 6. • Review pedestrian signal times and explore improved signage, median design/landscaping, lighting to improve the actual and perceived safety of Highway 6 crossings. • Extend the Highway 6 trail east to Heinz Road to ensure safety for pedestrian and bicycle access across the district • Extend a sidewalk/trail connection along Highway 6 and across the bridge to Riverside Drive. GOAL 2: Prioritize the extension of McCollister Boulevard as an integral element in improving connectivity and access for South Iowa City and to spur the development of a high quality neigh- borhood surrounding the new school. • The new road should enhance movement between neighborhoods by providing appropriate crossings, including medians or traffic controls where needed. • Design and construct McCollister Boulevard as a welcoming and attractive entrance to the South Iowa City neighborhoods by including trees, landscaping, lighting, public art, or other features that foster a distinct identity for the district. GOAL 3: Enhance safety and aesthetics along arterial streets. • Provide safe and accessible street crossings at key locations, such as entrances to commercial centers, parks, and school sites, and where designated trails cross arterial streets. • Design the extension of South Sycamore Street and McCollister Boulevard to moderate vehicle speeds and maximize safety for children travelling to and from school. Consider the feasibility and of on -street parking to slow traffic if a neighborhood commercial develops. • Where appropriate, include crosswalks, signals, or median islands as well as lighted trail connec- tions. • Enhance aesthetics of arterial streets with trees, landscaping, lighting, public art, or other fea- tures that support housing and subdivision designs oriented toward the street. GOAL 4: Maximize walkability and connectivity in all neighborhoods, especially those east of the Greenway. • Align collector streets along arterial streets to provide for safe crossing of neighborhood bound- ary streets, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. • Fill in gaps in the sidewalk network and ensure ADA compliant curb ramps throughout the dis- trict as intersections are improved, including connections to multi -family developments. • As residential development extends south toward the school, ensure multiple safe and logical walking routes to the school, including well -marked crosswalks for schools. • Provide count -down timers at high -volume intersections. • As re -development of commercial areas occurs, work to establish improved street, trail, and sidewalk connections to better integrate shopping centers with surrounding neighborhoods. • Improve lighting along residential streets if needed for safety. Consider lighting along off-street trails, such as at trail head areas or connections to parks in order to enhance safety. GOAL 5: Create an accessible and well -coordinated bike network that allows bicyclists to connect to schools, parks, and commercial areas. • Construct a wide sidewalk from South Sycamore Street to the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. • Construct a trail along the trunk sewer easement to connect residential development in Sand Hill Estates to Archibald Alexander Elementary. • Establish a bike trail or on -street route to connect the Sycamore Greenway Trail and Court Hill Trail. Physical Infrastructure for Pedestrian Safety Well maintained sidewalks and trails. Clearly marked crosswalks. Good irrtersectlon controls where need- ed Reduced vehicle speeds. Separation between sidewalk and street. 45 46 • Create unique and easily identifiable signage or other wayfinding methods to help cyclists find and bike routes and off-street trails. • Encourage visible and well -designed bike facilities as part of any redevelopment plans in South Iowa City. • Wherever street widths permit, consider establishing or improving on -street bike facilities, such as "sharrows", bike lanes, or bike boulevards. GOAL 6: Improve and expand transit service. • Consider the expansion and diversification of bus routes and stops, including loop service, to connect residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, and recreational opportunities (e.g. Kickers Soccer Complex and Terry Trueblood Recreation Area), and major commercial areas along Highways 1 and 6. • Raise awareness and improve access to transit service by providing well -marked bus stops with posted schedule and route maps. • Consider attractive bus shelters, especially at commercial centers and public parks, and adopt -a -shelter programs with neighborhood organizations and commercial centers to such shelters are well -maintained. Commercial Areas The South Planning District is served by commercial areas located along or near the Highway 6 corri- dor, most notably Pepperwood Plaza and the Waterfront HyVee area. Although it is just outside the South District boundaries, the Iowa City Marketplace (formerly Sycamore Mall) is commonly consid- ered an important commercial center serving the South District, Pepperwood Plaza and Sycamore Mall once offered a wide variety of retail goods and services. In the late 1990s many of Iowa City's national retailers moved to the Coral Ridge Mall and in 2013 Von Maur Department Store moved to the River Landing in Coralville. This has left South Iowa City and much of the east side with fewer shopping options, especially children's items, clothing, sporting goods, and housewares. Participants in the on-line survey and community workshop eagerly anticipate redevelopment and improvement of commercial areas within and adjacent to the district. Aesthetic improvements along the Highway 6 and South Gilbert Street commercial corridor, opportunities for local and neighborhood —serving businesses, and improved pedestrian and bike facilities are seen as priorities. The viability of any commercial business —shops, restaurants, and services —depends on the market demand in the area in which the business is located. Population, residential density, and proximity to customers as they commute to and from work are essential for many retail businesses. New resi- dential development around the elementary school and improved connectivity made possible by the extension of McCollister Boulevard, have the potential to strengthen the commercial prospects in South Iowa City. While this will take time, efforts to make the area more attractive and to raise the profile of South Iowa City for residential development will also enhance prospects for commercial development. Highway 6 Commercial Corridor As stated above, commercial development in the South District is concentrated along and to the south of Highway 6. While this busy traffic corridor offers the visibility and traffic activity that many businesses desire, competition from new commercial centers and big box or discount stores in other parts of the trade area along with changes in the retail market due to the rise of online shopping have had an impact on large shopping centers, including Pepperwood Plaza. Designed with large buildings set back from the road behind ample parking lots, this sort of shopping center is appropri- ate for a large national or regional chain stores. The format is less adaptable for small or unique businesses that are less able to capture the attention of passing motorists. The Highway 6 Urban Renewal Area was estab- lished in 2003 with a goal of strengthening com- mercial activity in existing core areas and neighbor- hood commercial centers and discouraging the proliferation of new major commercial areas. The City makes available tax Increment financing as a means to help finance the construction of some of the necessary private and/or public infrastruc- ture Improvements within the Highway 6 Commer- cial Urban Renewal Area. In addition, the city makes available the use of tax Increment financing )TIF) to provide rebates for qualifying businesses or development projects within the Urban Renewal Project Area. This agreement will expire in 2025. Improvements may include stormwater manage- ment facilities, public streets and sidewalks, entry- way enhancements, sanitary sewers, storm sewers, and open space improvements. Site improvements may include design and con- struction of buildings and building additions, grad- ing for building construction and amenities; ade- quate paving and parking; adequate landscaping, and on -site utilities. 47 48 The areas highlighted in yellow indicate vacant commercial properties that front onto South Gilbert or Southgate Ave- nue. Redevelopment in the Riverfront Crossings District to the north of Highway 6 along with new residential develop- ment in areas to the south of the Crandic Railroad may gen- erate new interest In these properties for commercial uses. While the nature of Highway 6 commercial corridor will likely remain car -centered, residents in the surrounding neighborhoods expressed a desire to tame the auto dominated character of these shopping areas and improve their aesthetic appeal. Making these areas accessible and inviting to pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users by connecting into the local street network should be a priori- ty. Aesthetic improvements, including landscaping and shade trees to break up large parking areas, may entice shoppers to linger and could help foster a sense of place that encourages neighborhoods to identify with commercial areas. Such efforts could also help to improve the prospects for small or local businesses. Fagade and parking area improvements made to Waterfront Hy-Vee at the time of its expansion offer an example for future re -development in the area. Other models can be found along Highway 1, west of the river, where landscaping and other parking design requirements have softened views of very large parking areas. Longer term, any re -development of properties in the Highway 6 corridor should emphasize bringing buildings closer to the street, pedestrian accessibility, more efficient use of land , and introducing mixed use development South Gilbert Street Commercial Corridor: The South Gilbert Street Commercial Corridor is generally located between Highway 6 and the CRANDIC Railroad. The 1997 South District Plan called for general commercial development in this area, including along Stevens Drive and Southgate Avenue, with a focus on creating a more attrac- tive, well -landscaped entrance to the City. At the time, most of the undeveloped land was zoned for Intensive Commercial (CI-1), a classification that provided areas for businesses with operations char- acterized by outdoor storage and display of merchandize, by repair and sales of large equipment or motor vehicles, or by activities or operations conducted in buildings that are not entirely enclosed. In 2006 properties along Stevens and Waterfront Drives, east of Gilbert Street, were rezoned to Community Commercial (CC-2). Properties south of Southgate remain in the CI-1 zone. More re- cently, the CI-1 zone was amended to allow a wider range of commercial uses, including retail and restaurant uses. Little new development has occurred in the area around the Southgate Avenue and Gilbert Street intersection. This may be due, in part, to the risk of flooding. During major rainfall events, the intersection of South Gilbert and Stevens Drive is frequently flooded and all but a few commercial properties south of Highway 2 and west of the railroad are in the flood hazard area. While future residential development within the South District, especially in areas along South Gil- bert Street may improve development prospects in this area, the character of development that can be anticipated along this corridor is uncertain. Close proximity to the Riverfront Crossings and the Downtown and UI Campus along with ready access to the Iowa River Corridor Trail and future river - front park, may make this area attractive to a variety of uses, including mixed use or residential. It is important to carefully consider the impact of future development on the adjacent residential and commercial neighborhood. The area to the east of the railroad tracks is currently a mix of tradi- tional CI-1 uses along with a number of social service agencies and the Hilltop Mobile Home Park. Any proposal for residential or mixed use development in the area should be scrutinized to ensure that it contributes to the stability of the neighborhood. With any development or street improve- ments in this area, the attractive landscaped entryway envisioned in the previous plan should remain a high priority. Neighborhood Commercial Areas The future land use map includes a small area designated as Mixed Use at the intersection of McCollister and Sycamore Street and an existing Community Commercial (CC-2) property at the in- tersection of McCollister Boulevard and South Gilbert Street. The goal with both areas is to create opportunities for small scale commercial uses that principally serve the surrounding residential neighborhoods. In addition to small retail and personal service uses, neighborhood commercial are- as may institutional uses (e.g. daycare, churches or educational facilities) as well as neighborhood serving office uses (e.g. medical offices). Commercial uses are limited in size to promote a local ori- entation to minimize potential adverse impacts on nearby residential properties. A small neighborhood commercial area may be appropriate on the east side of Gilbert Street at the intersection of McCollister, but careful consideration should be given not to detract from existing commercial zones along Gilbert, including the existing zone on the west side of the street, or the commercial node at McCollister and Sycamore. Such an area should be part of a master plan that shows a thoughtful transition to the surrounding single-family residential. Zoning code standards for neighborhood commercial areas ensure that development is compatible in scale and intensity to the surrounding residential neighborhoods. Building placement and design requirements help to create an environment that is inviting to pedestrians and minimize the impact of automobiles. To function as a successful neighborhood center, the design of the mixed use area should incorpo- rate pedestrian and bike accessibility as well as a transit stop. Including a small plaza, park, or other communal space within the development will help to make this corner a neighborhood gathering place and an anchor for the adjacent neighborhoods. As noted above, commercial uses depend on surrounding residential density and active commuting routes in order to be successful. It will take time forthis area to develop enough of a population to support even a small business, such as a coffee shops. Allowing moderate density housing (10-20 units per acre) in the area immediately around these commercial areas and providing residential � 4 a � 'R tC70 .- 1 Traditional gas station site design. A re -oriented site design with the gas station canopy located behind a storefront at the comer. This could allow the site to offer more than gas/convenience retail. This may be an appropriate site design for the commer- cial corner at McCollister Boulevard and South Gilbert. ag 50 Landscaping, shade trees and pedestrian islands can help break up large parking areas. COMMERCIAL AREAS —GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following goals and objectives for commercial areas were developed with input gathered dur- ing the South District Planning process. Achieving these goals may require collaborative efforts by business owners and association and property owners and developers. GOAL 1. Improve the aesthetic appearance of commercial areas along Highway 6 and other commercial streets within the district (e.g. Boyrum, Keokuk). • Improve the aesthetic appeal/appearance of the Highway 6 and South Gilbert Street Commer- cial Corridors —both within the right-of-way and on adjacent commercial property —taking cues from aesthetic improvements planned along Riverside Drive as well as landscaping improve- ments west of the river on Highway One. • With any proposed redevelopment of Pepperwood Plaza, encourage a reduction of large parking areas to create more inviting social and pedestrian space. Include shade trees and distinctive landscaping and inviting pedestrian routes and amenities such as seating, bike facilities, and art. • Encourage landscape improvements for other existing commercial properties/neighborhoods and enforce compliance with landscaping standards as well as maintenance of required land- scaping. • Encourage commercial areas to adopt a common design theme —taking queues from Olde Towne Village at the corner of Scott Boulevard and Rochester Avenue —to create a sense of con- tinuity and identity (e.g. fagade design, signage, lighting, landscaping). • Ensure that small commercial areas, such as those contemplated or zoned along McCollister Boulevard, are designed to complement the adjacent residential neighborhood and contribute to an attractive gateway to the South District by encouraging attractive landscaping, screened parking areas and/or parking behind the building, minimizing exterior lighting, bike facilities, and connection to pedestrian routes. 51 GOAL 2: Improve connectivity between commercial areas and adjacent residential. As development and redevelopment occur, integrate shopping areas with adjacent residential neighborhoods by providing improved street, sidewalk, or trail connections and enhance entry- ways with art, landscaping, and wayfinding. Encourage attractive and readily identifiable bike parking and transit stops within commercial development areas. . GOAL 3: Engage the community in re -thinking South Iowa City's commercial areas by encouraging (sponsoring) unique events such as food or cultural festivals, roller derby or roller skating, mini - concerts, farmers market or food trucks nights, at Pepperwood Plaza and other commercial are- as. GOAL 4: Support development and redevelopment of areas identified as commercial in the fu- ture land use plan, ensuring that commercial areas and uses contribute to the long-term vitality and appeal of adjacent neighborhoods. • As the nearby Riverfront Crossings builds out, re-evaluate the development potential and zoning of properties in the South Gilbert/Southgate Avenue area. Explore the potential for mixed use/ residential or institutional uses. Any proposed rezoning of this area should be scrutinized to as- sure that new development contributes to the overall health of the surrounding neighborhood, including nearby residential areas. • Consider opportunities for small neighborhood commercial or mixed use nodes at key intersec- tions where McCollister Boulevard intersects with Gilbert and Sycamore Streets and encourage quality design and construction that enhances adjacent residential or public open space areas. A few fun event ideas suggested for making commercial areas —especially large parking areas —more socially ac- tive: outdoor sport demonstrations, such roller derby or basketball, foot truck night with rive music, art events such as a chalk the lot festival. • Support local and independent businesses in South Iowa City through targeted promotional Photo copyright Greeley Tibr , efforts and by encouraging alliances among businesses and property owners. Encourage or create incentives to attract neighborhood serving businesses—e.g. daycare, coffee shop, medical office, music or dance studios, salons and other personal services, etc. to com- mercial areas. 52 South Planning District Plan Map Designations Low to Medium Density Residential: 2-8 dwelling units/acre Intended primarily for detached single-family housing. Duplexes are allowed on corner lots in all single-family zones. In some areas attached housing may be located along arterial streets or adjacent to permanent open space. The resi- dential density for a property should reflect the nature of the site and take into account sensi- tive environmental features, topographical con- straints, street connectivity, and compatibility with historical development patterns. ® Low to Medium Mixed Residential: 8-13 dwelling units/acre Intended for medium to high density single- family residential development, including small lot detached single-family units, zero lot line development, duplexes, and townhouses. Suita- ble for sites where a single loaded street is de- sirable to provide visibility and access to public open space, or where clustering is desirable to protect sensitive environmental features. Low density multi -family residential may also be considered if buildings are designed in a man- ner that is compatible in scale and design to the lower scale residential dwellings in the neigh- borhood (e.g. triplexes and 4 or 6-plexes). High- er density housing should be located at the edg- es of neighborhoods, principally in areas with good street connectivity, access to open space or parks, trails, and transit. Multi -Family 12-24 dwelling units/acre Properties developed prior to 2015 may have been established at higher densities, particular- ly in neighborhoods close to Highway 6. The "New Neighborhood section of the plan (page 18) includes language describing the density, location, and design quality that will be part of any rezoning to allow multi -family housing. Higher density zoning designations may not be suitable for areas with topographical con- straints or limited street connectivity or access. Preferred locations for new multifamily are along main travel corridors or intersections, especially near permanent open space or adja- cent to commercial development. E Commercial E Public Institutional Property that is publicly owned and used for a public purpose, including public schools, and City, County, State, and Federal offices orfacili- ties. If the property is proposed to be sold to a private entity for a non-public use, then the land should be rezoned to be compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. ® Public Parks/Open Space Indicates existing or potential public open space intended for the protection of sensitive natural features, storm water management, and/or to provide for passive, active, recreational or other public open space needs, and/or to protect the aesthetic values of the community.* Areas intended to provide the opportunity for a E Private Open Space large variety of commercial uses, particularly retail commercial uses, which serve a major segment of the community. m Mixed -Use An area intended for development that com- bines commercial and residential uses. Individu- al buildings may be mixed -use or single -use. Development is intended to be pedestrian - oriented, with buildings oriented to the street with sidewalks, street trees and other pedestri- an amenities. Buildings with residential uses should be designed to ensure a comfortable and functional environment for urban living in close proximity to commercial uses. The mix of uses allowed requires special consideration of building and site design. Indicates existing or potential open space on private land that is important for the protection of sensitive natural features and/or to provide for storm water management, and/or for pri- vate, shared passive or recreational opportuni- ties for adjacent properties, and/or to protect the aesthetic values of the community.* *A public or private open space designation on land that is not currently designated as open space may indicate an area is largely unsuitable for development due to environmental or topo- graphical constraints or may indicate that an opportunity to acquire needed open space is --I Pugh1100 SIXTH STREET SUITE 102 a p-a t �'j l CORALVILLE, IOWA 52241 �1 PHONE 319-351-2028 r� it y,It e; L. FAX 319-351-1102 ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS PUGNHAGAN.COM MPUGH@PUGHHAGAN.CCM August 13, 2015 VIA E-MAIL AND U.S. MAIL town City Planning and Zoning Commission 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 RE: South District Plan Amendment Dear Commissioners: This office represents Sycamore Apartments and Lake Calvin Properties, L.L.C. (collectively the "Owners"). The Owners currently own approximately thirty-seven acres of undeveloped real property located within the City's South Planning District (the "Property" or "Properties")- A copy of the proposed South District Plan map, which depicts the Properties, as being owned by Sycamore Apartments and Sycamore Farms, is enclosed as Exhibit "A". My clients and I have followed the City's workshops, discussions and planning efforts as they relate to the City's proposed amendments to its South District Plan. For the reasons that follow, the Owners respectfully oppose the following proposed amendments to the South District Plan: (1) changing the Properties' zoning designation in the Plan from multi -family zoning to mediumllow density single-family housing zoning; and (2) delineating a 1,000 foot non -development buffer on the southerly portion of the Properties. The Owners ask that the Commission not adopt these amendments as they relate to the Properties. 1. Changing the Properties' Zoning Designation 'rho Owners' acquired their respective Properties in the late 1980s and early 1990s. On September 15, 1994, the City annexed the Properties in conjunction with what is believed to be the largest annexation of property in the City's history. (See Annexation Exhibit enclosed as Exhibit "B"). At the time my Clients acquired the Properties, the City was in the process of constructing the Iowa City Wastewater Facilities Improvement Project (the "Wastewater Plant") located at 4366 Napoleon Street.' I The property owned by Lake Calvin. Properties is located adjacent to the Wastewater Plant. (000485193) PUGH HAGAN PRAHM PLC August 13, 2015 Page 2 The annexation of the Properties was the subject of lengthy negotiations between the Owners and the City which began in early 1992. The Owners originally resisted annexation of these specific Properties. However, in order for the Wastewater Plant to be contiguous to City limits, the City negotiated with the Owners to annex the Properties. As a result of the annexation of the entire 420 acres owned by the Owners, the City was also able to link the Wastewater Plant facilities to the corporate limits, allowing this important municipal facility to be annexed by the City. The City also requested that the Owners delineate certain wetlands known as the "Snyder Creek Bottoms" and restrict those areas from development. As a part of their negotiations with the City, the Owners entered into a Conservation Easement removing approximately 200 acres from development. Other consideration was provided to the City as more fully set forth in the Conditional Zoning Agreement entered into by the Owners' and the City, dated February 15, 1994. In exchange for these concessions, the Owners insisted on a multi -family zoning classification for the Properties and the City supported this zoning designation. At the time of annexation, the City zoned both Properties as ID-RM, Interim Development Multi -Family Residential. The City classified the Properties under the Interim Development designation because the Properties were not served by adequate infrastructure and services, namely a suitable road, at the time of their annexation. The City gave the Properties' their multi -family residential zoning status, however, as mutually agreed upon consideration for their annexation, with the understanding that the "ID" moniker would be removed once an adequate road was constructed to access the Properties. The Properties' current zoning designation contemplates the development of the Properties for multi -family residential units consistent with this bargained -for exchange.2 Under the City's proposed amendments of its South District Plan, the Properties will be changed from multi -family zoning to medium/low density single-family housing zoning. This is not only inconsistent with the Properties' historic multi -family zoning that has been in place on the Properties since their annexation into the City, but also negates the Owners' contracted consideration. The Owners have done everything required of them under the Conditional Zoning Agreement. The City will be failing to live up to its end of the bargain by now changing the Properties' zoning designation in the South District Plan. Leaving these properties with a multi -family residential zoning designation ultimately allows the Owners to realize their investment -backed expectations —which expectations were relied upon at the time the Properties were purchased and subsequently annexed into the City. In addition to effectively downzoning the Properties, the City's South District Plan amendments will diminish their economic and developmental value. Without a further amendment to the South District Plan, the City will likely resist the Owners' plan to develop multi -family residential units on their Properties because the proposed amended South District Plan recommends the Properties be limited to medium or low density single-family ' In so far as previous City Comprehensive Plans have designated the Properties for non -multi -family development, the Owners were never made aware of this designation. They have only now been notified of the potential change in designation. {00048519 31 PUGH HAGAN PRAHM PLC August 13, 2015 Page 3 housing. If the City denies rezoning the Properties to RM zoning from their existing ID-RM zoning, it will likely lead to a regulatory takings claim sometime in the future. 2. 1,000-Foot Non -Development Buffer The Owners also object to any delineation or discussion in the South District Plan of a 1,000- foot non -development buffer due to the location of the Wastewater Plant. (See Exhibit "A"). City Staff proposes this designation in response to Iowa Administrative Rule 567-64.2(3) which prohibits the construction of a wastewater treatment plant within 1,000 feet of an "inhabitable residence, commercial building, or other inhabitable structure." Importantly, however, this Administrative Rule was implemented for odor protection and not as a mechanism designed to restrict development. To this end, the Rule does not regulate development in any respect; it is only applicable if the City were to expand the existing Wastewater Plant, in which case the City would be required to receive the necessary approvals from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources ("IDNR"). However, the IDNR regulation does not prohibit the Owners from developing within this buffer. If the City desires to expand the Plant in the future, the IDNR may allow this expansion to encroach within ninety percent (90%) of the 1,000-foot buffer upon receipt of a written waiver issued by the IDNR. This may require condemnation by the City of additional land, including a portion of the Properties. Put simply, the South District Plan should neither show nor reference any buffer due to the location of the Wastewater Plant. Likewise, the 1,000-foot buffer designation is not appropriate given the history of the Properties. Here, the City negotiated for the annexation of the Properties' and other undeveloped real estate with constructive knowledge of the 1,000 foot buffer requirement for newly constructed wastewater treatment plants. See Iowa Admin. Code r. 567-64.2(3)(a) (1986-2015) (setting forth the 1,000-foot construction buffer in each annual Administrative Code). At that time, the City did not acquire any portion of the Properties to account for the 1,000-foot buffer. Any attempt to now use this buffer in the South District Plan could be construed as an attempt to "take" additional land for future expansion of the Wastewater Plant, which would require just compensation to the Owner. The inclusion of a 1,000 foot non development buffer on the South District Plan is likely to lead to a regulatory takings claim in the future when the Owners seek to develop their property. The Properties were zoned for multi -family development prior to annexation into the City. At the time of annexation, the Properties were slated for a multi -family zoning designation resulting from negotiations between the Owners and the City. The multi -year annexation process created many different zones within the annexed property, each one critical to the Owners. The RM zone was and is crucial as this was the agreed upon consideration between the City and the Owners. This particular zone was needed to offset a negotiated conservation easement on an adjoining 200-acre tract to the east. Changing the Properties' zoning designation would not only constitute downzening, but would also be a "taking" of valuable interest that the Owners insisted on and the City gave in the annexation process. To avoid possible litigation and damages, and because of the reasons discussed above, the Owners ask (00048519 3 ) PUGH HAGAN PRAHM PLC August 13, 2015 Page 4 the Commission to not amend the City's South District Plan to change the Properties' zoning designation and delineate a 1,000-foot non -development buffer. cc: AM Management, Inc. c/o Mr. Steve Gordon Ms. Eleanor Dilkes (via email only) Mr. Robert Miklo (via email only) {000465193) Very truly yours, PUGH HAGAN PRAI IM PLC Michael J. Pugh -A - Odbit 'A" Pleasant Valley Symanwre \ Apartmenm -,* CRY of lase City Sycamore Farms Cal Chy of Iowa City Kent Brawonan Iowa City South District June 2015 Legend eaw South Dlshol Bounden Um CaxePmal ArWW Shaet A9gMront Pubic Park WARCELS McAMAM Denshy SF Houshe McAumrtllgh Demsky SF Housing - Mud Famly Mod Use Comnatoal J Pubmwkttoml ® Pousic Open spuE _ Iowa Riwr -- Pmghhothood Commordai Not to Scak RA"t T, Location .1%.qap ANN92-0003 Svcamore Farms Annexation Figure 2 Exhibit A Recorp manded Zoning Pattern subject to Verification of We ands June 4, 2015 To the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission: On behalf of the Johnson County Affordable Homes Coalition, I am submitting the following comments on the draft plan for the South District. New homes in the area should be accessible, designed and built according to Universal Design standards. Given that there are three manufactured housing parks in the South District, the City should consider requiring park owners to provide six months or more of advance notice of the date of sale and the date housing units must be removed from the park, as well as relocation assistance to residents if a park is sold for redevelopment. In the "Future Neighborhood Scenario", the plan proposes that a very limited area be zoned multi -family. Given the tremendous shortage of affordable rental homes in Iowa City, whether market -rate or assisted, we think that more land in the South District should be zoned multi -family. We realize that the neighborhood is trying to achieve housing type and income diversity, and we believe that goal is not incompatible with more multi -family dwellings. • On a related note, there is an assumption built into the plan that building a mix of housing types will assure affordability. While we we support a mix of housing types, we know that for rental homes to be accessible and affordable to households at less than 60% of area median income, housing assistance is essential. However the City's Affordable Housing Location Model currently make it very difficult to utilize assisted rental in virtually all of the South District. We urge the City to review and revise the Affordable Housing Location Model, so that it does not thoroughly stifle the development of well -constructed, well -maintained, and accessible affordable rental housing where land is available for new development. Thank you for considering these comments in your review of the South District Plan. Sincerely, SaIlyJ. Scott Chair, Johnson County Affordable Homes Coalition r--lp° CITY OF IOWA CITYMEMORANDUM Date: August 14, 2015 To: Planning and Zoning Commission From: John Yapp, Development Services Coordinator Re: Update on Iowa City Downtown District retail storefront and signage guidelines review process Introduction: The Iowa City Downtown District (ICDD), with participation from the City of Iowa City, has hired a consultant (Kiku Obata & Company) to review downtown storefronts and signage, and to develop design guidelines for storefronts and signage as buildings are remodeled over time. This effort grew out of ICDD's development of the Downtown District Retail Strategy report in 2014; one of the recommendations in this report is to develop retail design guidelines for retail storefronts. Discussion: The intent of developing guidelines and design standards for downtown facades and signage is to improve upon downtown's competitiveness as a retail center, and to provide guidance to property owners and architects as buildings are remodeled over time. As part of the scope of services, the consultant is being asked to review current conditions downtown, interview stakeholders (property owners, business owners, City staff, local architects, etc.), develop draft guidelines for facades and signage, hold a public open house, and provide a design book with recommended best practices. In addition, the consultant will be reviewing existing zoning, sign code, and design review processes which affect downtown, and making recommendations for improvements. This process will take several months. The first stakeholder meetings are planned for Tuesday, August 25 (see attached meeting agenda). We would like to invite a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission to be a part of the stakeholder group and provide input into this process, both with the initial stakeholder interviews and throughout the process. If a member of the Commission is interested, we can schedule a time with the consultant on August 25, or provide an alternative time or means of providing input. One thing to be aware of as this process unfolds, is that it will likely result in recommended changes to the Zoning Code, both in terms of design review standards and processes, and in the Sign Code. Consistent with rezonings and Zoning Code amendments, we will ask the participating Commissioner to disclose their level of involvement in this process and evaluate any conflict of interest concerns. Conclusion: Let us know at your August 20 meeting if there is a member of the Commission who is interested in participating in this process. KIKU UBATA MEETING AGENDA Date: July 20, 2015 RE: Iowa City Downtown Retail Storefront & Signage Guideiines, Proposed Kickoff Agenda (All times approximate) 1. Monday, August 24 - Day One a. 10:30 -1lam - Kickoff meeting with ICDD b. 11 - 12om - Discussion with City / Staff / ICDD c. 1 - 2pm - Downtown area tour with ICDD / City / Staff d. 2 - 6pm - KO Downtown area tour, observation, documentation e. Evening - KO Downtown area observation, documentation 2. Tuesday, August 25 - Day Two a. 8 - gam - Stakeholder presentation, group feedback b. 9 - 1 pm -Stakeholder interviews (30-minute or 45-minute time slots) c. 2 - 3pm - Review, kickoff wrap-up, and discussion with ICDD and City Staff KII .i ObMA S Compwy 6161 I)Cmar Blvd, Suitt: tun, St. Lows, f4O 6g12 Office314�6i.wo F.x;;14,01,4716 www.kwuchata.com