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AGENDA Metro Vision Planning Advisory Committee

Wednesday August 20, 2014 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.

1290 Broadway Independence Pass Board Room

1. Call to Order

2. Public Comment

3. July 16, 2014 Meeting Summary

(Attachment A)

ACTION ITEM

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

4. Metro Vision 2040 – Draft Plan Element: Healthy, Inclusive, and Livable Communities (60 min.)

(Attachment B) Michele Anderson

5. Metro Vision 2040 – Draft Plan Element: A Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment (60 min.)

(Attachment C) Brad Calvert

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

6. Updates

MVPAC Issues Tracking August 20, 2014 7. Member Comment/Other Matters 8. Next Meeting- September 17, 2014 9:00 a.m. 9. Adjournment

ATTACHMENT A

MEETING SUMMARY Metro Vision Planning Advisory Committee (MVPAC)

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 ________________________

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Lesli Ellis City of Boulder

Steve Glueck (Chair) City of Golden

Steve Gordon City and County of Denver

Randy Harrison RW Harrison & Associates

Steve Hebert City of Lone Tree

Glenda Lainis City of Thornton

Lynn Merwin City and County of Broomfield

Anne Miller CO Dept. of Local Affairs

Ann Norton Ann Norton Law Offices

Katherine (Kati) Rider Douglas County

Jerome Tinianow City and County of Denver

Will Toor Southwest Energy Efficiency Project

Cate Townley CO Dept. of Public Health and Environment

Robert Watkins City of Aurora

Brad Weinig Enterprise Community Partners

Others: Kate Cooke, Ted Heyd, Tareq Wafaie DRCOG staff: Brad Calvert, Teri Whitmore, Michele Anderson, Anna Garcia, Doug Rex,

Ashley Kaade, Flo Raitano, Casey Collins Call to Order Chair Steve Glueck called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m. Public Comment No public comment was heard. Member Comment/Other Matters No member comment was heard.

Summary of June 18, 2014 Meeting The summary was accepted.

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

Metro Vision 2040 – Urban Centers

Brad Calvert continued the discussion from last month on drafting a revised urban centers element for Metro Vision 2040. He reviewed that the committee agreed the urban center concept should be integrated in other sections of the Metro Vision 2040, as urban centers are critical in achieving other regional goals (e.g., VMT reduction). A high-level summary of comments from the committee in June was provided:

other areas with a high degree of transit access and corridors, as well as designated urban centers and urban area adjacent areas;

first/last mile challenges;

that some attributes may not be applicable to suburban environments;

that job type and quality is critical--not just the number of jobs;

the local jurisdiction’s role in urban centers; and

some communities just want better amenities rather than growth.

Metro Vision Planning Advisory Committee Summary July 16, 2014 Page 2

Member comments: Steve Glueck, Chair, asked for comments for recognizing supportive types of land use patterns, as opposed to formal designation of corridors. Does the committee feel that corridors should be formally designated?

The committee has spent some time discussing corridors, and there seems to be a general sense they are important. However, the committee hasn’t discussed specifics. A starting point may be existing centers that are corridors, or traditional types like main streets – but we should avoid adding corridors just because they have decent transit services.

The City and County of Denver volunteered to share some of their experience and work on this issue and recommended a broader conversation as well that brings in communities from around the region.

The Chair proposed that center adjacent areas don’t have to be designated, just recognized in policies and strategies. Brad agreed. Urban centers, as currently defined, applies to a well-connected set of centers.

Corridors are a critical placemaking typology and it’s valid to consider recognizing them in some way.

It was suggested we reach out to other corridors (such as Englewood, Littleton, Broadway) that haven’t been in this conversation. Brad said interviews were held, but if the committee feels we should move toward formal designation of corridors in Metro Vision, a broader outreach effort is needed.

The northside has an interesting dilemma in that I-25 and North Metro rail line are parallel, so station areas may not be as intense as highway-oriented areas nearby. The Chair noted station area planning studies can be helpful.

It was suggested a map be included in the plan (representing areas from Scenario E)–maybe not designating formal areas, but showing possibilities. It was recognized there may be some issues having a map in a policy document.

The Chair summarized that the group feels the need to further investigate corridors and transit accessible areas for formal designation, or more explicit recognition and policy.

We are using terms interchangeably and we need to be clearer—is it transit accessible, corridor, or enhanced? Brad recommended forming a small group now to further define before mid-September.

We also should be having a conversation about the transit system beyond FasTracks—it is inherently tied to the importance of corridors.

The Chair asked if the committee would want to prioritize funding assistance to centers that are accepting more growth (i.e., growing centers vs. “built out”). Or do we want to differentiate between the different stages (planned, emerging, or existing) of urban centers with funding?

Yes.

Other committee members were concerned about ranking centers. Even within communities every center is different, so this is only magnified at the regional level. We should be careful about simple characterizations.

Brad noted a common theme identified in the urban center survey and the associated interviews is a seemingly never-ending need for infrastructure investments.

Some growing urban centers are greenfields now, should we be investing in those areas?

The region should focus on providing infrastructure (particularly First/Last Mile connections) where there is transit, no matter how urban center is classified.

Denver’s updated TOD strategic plan is divided TOD areas into three types: 1. places where there is a strong market; 2. places that have infrastructure needs, etc.; and, 3. places that still need planning.


Some TOD and urban center areas need public investment even if they aren’t ready for private sector development.

Chair Glueck summarized that the committee thought differentiation might be an interesting idea, but there are more reasons not to differentiate. Follow-up question from July: If type and quality of employment is important, does the same apply to housing?

o Yes, there needs to be a range of housing types and costs to address a broad range of incomes.

Follow-up question from July: While urban centers vary in context and phase of development they should share attributes – what are these attributes?

What strategies should Metro Vision outline to ensure these attributes are/will be present? Suggested collective measures/indicators?

Member comments:

It is DRCOG’s role to decide attributes since urban centers are emphasized in regional funding allocations. We may need to focus on tightening the criteria used to recognize centers – it shouldn’t be about self-selection.

The Chair noted a strategy can be to continually evaluate and refine designation criteria. What other strategies are there?

We have a good starting point but need to “up the bar”.

Important to make sure communities have the regulator environment to create urban centers over time.

Assuming zoning is in place, go further by saying a mix of uses, and should be “if able to access daily needs without a car”.

Other committee members felt that going too far may leave some communities out. In some centers the development community is unwilling to build the types of products called for in urban centers.

The Chair summarized that, among DRCOG’s many roles, it provides information and resources, encourages members to implement strategies to attain regional goals, and establishes TIP criteria that encourages urban centers to incorporate more growth. The Chair also recommended urban centers be considered in RTP project evaluation.

DRCOG should seek more partnerships with other groups looking at regional strategies.

Important to invest in infrastructure for bike/ped connections in urban centers whether they are developed or aspirational.

An expanded map based on additional transit/BRT lines could be an attribute to make the centers successful. Different types of urban centers should be discussed—while mixed used is needed, some centers are more employment based, while others are more housing-based. Important to connect centers, especially suburban centers.

New question for discussion: Should the “50/75” goal in Metro Vision remain a strategic outcome/target?

Is the 50/75 goal is a collective goal (vs. every community/center reaching the goal)? Some centers may add more employment, but less housing, and vice versa.

Could DRCOG develop a “complete street” policy to enforce policy?

It is important to retain the goal. Some other region’s have more aggressive goals. If you remove the target you won’t achieve it.

The 50/75 goal may not align with economic development types of jobs (high tech, aerospace, i.e., high square footage requirements).


It was noted primary jobs are only a piece of the larger jobs picture – traditional economic development groups don’t focus on all types of jobs.

Since Scenario E was the most successful in reaching regional goals, the plan should have more policies related to encouraging development in transit-accessible areas.

Brad noted more nuanced goal related to jobs will be brought back to the committee – nearly impossible to track “new” jobs vs. jobs that may move around the region. o Committee suggestion: Look at concentration percentages in those areas, rather than “new”.

Brad was asked what stakeholders interviewed as part of the Regional Economic Strategy thought about the 50/75 goal. He noted the goal is considered ambitious and optimistic – the traditional economic development community desired flexibility.

Most of new jobs created are small business, which is the heart and soul of urban centers. The Chair summarized the committee discussion:

o raised concern with how to explain or present the 50/75 goal, but don’t want to abandon having a goal;

o recognized the need to address housing diversity and affordability; o talked about the attributes and brainstormed strategies without any consensus to dramatically

“up the bar” (but it is appropriate to always be reviewing the designation criteria); o and did not feel comfortable formally differentiating different levels of urban centers as a

formal designation (although it may come out in policies i.e., local policies). New question: What regional and local actions to support urban center development should be highlighted?

Implementation aspects of plan. What kinds of things can be done? Once strategies are developed, then indicator/metrics/performance standards can be

recommended. Metro Vision 2040 – Draft Plan Elements (Section I-III)

Brad presented a draft copy of three sections in the MV2040 plan for committee review (1. Background and Context, 2. Metro Vision: 20 Years of Progress, and 3. Building on Success and Facing New Challenges). Brad said individual sections will continue to be brought to the committee for review as soon as available. Some sections may require more review than others, but typically should get consensus and feedback in a single meeting. A complete draft of the entire plan is scheduled to be brought to the committee in December, 2014. Schedule for draft section review:

Aug: Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities and Environment Sept: Livable Communities and Neighborhoods and/or Transportation Oct: Livable Communities and Neighborhoods and/or Transportation Nov: Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities (Housing) and A Vibrant Economy

Member comments:

It was easy to read. Section III may be a little “challenge heavy”, particularly in the housing options. May be too heavy emphasis on Millenials. Should address all ages.

Highlight successes with callouts of success stories, trends, progress since the last Metro Vision plan.

Highlight economic “resiliency” of the region because of diversification.

Shouldn’t shy away from mentioning challenges - the audience is mostly local governments, planners.


The Board’s adopted goal to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) should be emphasized.

Mile High Compact should be moved to Section II.

First/last mile challenges should mention BRT, not just rail transit.

We shouldn’t use “graying” to describe the changing age demographics in the region.

The callout box about aging suggests that older residents are problems. This section should be improved. Brad agreed to work on this area of the plan. It was further noted DRCOG’s Boomer Bond program should be mentioned.

Important to note the importance of having time to access parks, open space, and trails – “time poverty”.

The housing language may have an overly negative tone.

There needs more detail discussion on climate adaptation and energy – two paragraphs at the end of Section III are not enough.

Does the subject of climate change need to go to MVIC and Board for more direction so staff knows what level they should be treating it?

How much detail/time will be spent on developing plan sections? Brad said MVPAC will be working with staff to develop a draft of the plan through the remainder of the year.

When will toolkits for each section be available? Brad said not until after adoption. Brad mentioned the committee will not be directly involved in creating those elements, but he will likely engage MPAC members individually, as the committee sunsets in December.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

The Board will act on the ad hoc working groups for housing and economic vitality and the TIP Policy Document later in the day. If approved, the call for projects will begin in late July. The finalized Regional Economic Strategy report will be delivered to DRCOG by the end of July. Some sections of the draft have been in review by staff. Brad said staff can share with committee when available. The meeting was adjourned at 10:52 a.m. The next meeting is scheduled for August 20, 2014 at 9:00 a.m.

ATTACHMENT B

To: Chair and Members of the Metro Vision Planning Advisory Committee

From: Michele Anderson, Planner II 303-480-6776 or [email protected]

Meeting Date Agenda Category Agenda Item #

August 20, 2014 Informational 4

SUBJECT

MVPAC will review and provide feedback to staff on the draft language of a potential new element of Metro Vision 2040: Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities.

PROPOSED ACTION/RECOMMENDATIONS

No action requested. This item is for information.

ACTION BY OTHERS

N/A

SUMMARY

The importance of individual and community health has consistently been raised by stakeholders, including MVPAC, throughout the process to develop Metro Vision 2040. Key stakeholder engagement opportunities included:

Metro Vision 2040 Listening Tour

Community Health and Wellness Focus Groups

Metro Vision Idea Exchange In March 2014, DRCOG staff shared the Community Health and Wellness Issues Paper with MVPAC. The issue paper was shaped by the outreach activities described above. Staff shared the initial draft Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities element with MVPAC in July 2014 (for review – no discussion at July MVPAC meeting). The draft plan element (attached) includes a placeholder for regional housing outcomes, strategies, and actions. An ad hoc group of the DRCOG Board of Directors will meet during the fall of 2014 to develop the housing section of this plan element. MVPAC members are asked to review the Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities element and provide feedback to staff during the meeting.

PREVIOUS DISCUSSIONS/ACTIONS

MVPAC – June 19, 2013 March 16, 2014

PROPOSED MOTION

N/A

ATTACHMENT

Metro Vision 2040 - DRAFT Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities element

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you need additional information, please contact Michele Anderson, Planner II, at 303-480-6776 or [email protected].

mailto:[email protected]

https://drcog.org/sites/drcog/files/resources/MVPAC%20Mtg%2006-19-13%20Summary%20FINAL.pdf

https://drcog.org/sites/drcog/files/resources/MVPAC%20Mtg%2003-19-14%20Summary%20FINAL_BC.pdf


Metro Vision 2040 Plan –WORKING DRAFT: August 2014

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Healthy, Inclusive, and Livable Communities (NEW/EXP)-

Introduction Our region is widely recognized as a model of livability and health. However, rising care costs, an aging population, accessibility of services, insufficient workforce and affordable housing, local food access, and socio-economic disparities are just a few of the many trends and issues of concern that threaten to undermine our quality of life and the health of our residents and ultimately the region’s economy.

There are many efforts to address these issues and concerns underway at the local and state level that are working well, including coalition building, education and awareness initiatives, grassroots efforts, and the adoption of local programs, policies and regulations. However, the depth of understanding surrounding the importance of these issues at the regional level and the degree to which these issues are being integrated into local plans and policy making across the region is uneven and there is much to be done at all levels.

Metro Vision’s outcomes, objectives, and strategies aim to increase awareness of the importance of community health and wellness considerations, to build on the successes of ongoing efforts across the region, and to help advance the conversation at all levels. Desired outcomes of these objectives and strategies are as follows:

• A built and natural environment that promotes healthy and active lifestyle choices leading to a healthy and well population.

• Residents of all ages, abilities, and financial means have expanded connections to care within the region; and

• Diverse housing options meet the needs of all residents.

(SIDEBAR) CONNECTING THE DOTS: WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? (Linkages to other sections/issues)

An Efficient and Predictable Development Pattern. The location, types, and patterns of development all shape individual decisions and behaviors, and influence local and regional health outcomes, as well as the livability of individual communities. Careful planning can ensure that neighborhoods, urban centers and corridors, and other places in the region are designed in ways that support good health and quality of life rather than in ways that make it difficult for people to make healthy choices or that put populations at greater risk for unhealthy behaviors or other negative health outcomes.

A Connected Region. The transportation system, including options for transportation and overall mobility, as well as lack of choice or options, can have a profound influence on public health and community livability. People that can walk and bike to destinations on a frequent basis are more likely to maintain healthy weights and benefit from regular physical fitness. Others who spend long periods commuting by car or cannot use other modes of travel often experience higher levels of stress, and are more susceptible to other health risk factors such as long periods of sedentary behavior and unhealthier weights. Transportation modes and commuting patterns also directly affect regional air quality which can lead to health issues such as asthma, lung cancer, and heart disease.


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A Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment. In addition to air quality, other environmental factors such as water quality, soil quality, and access to nature and open space also affect regional and community health and wellness. The conservation and stewardship of these and other resources are critical in maintaining the health of people, as well as the other natural systems that support life.

A Vibrant Economy. While health and wellness are themselves an important sector for future economic growth, health and community livability also impact the bottom line for regional business, in terms of costs of care, employee productivity, and ability to attract and retain employees. Residents and businesses alike are attracted to the Denver region’s reputation as a healthy place to live, and delivering on this “brand” is essential in capturing future economic opportunities. Moreover, health, or lack thereof, presents very real economic realities to households. Individuals experiencing poor health may struggle with affordability or access to care, which can also impact employment options and available resources for housing, transportation, education, and nutrition.

Outcome 1: A built and natural environment that supports healthy and active lifestyle choices leading to a healthy and well population. The way in which we live influences our health in many ways—whether the choice of walking versus driving, the mix of uses in our neighborhoods, the ability to engage in community activities, or accessibility of healthy food options. Expanding opportunities for the region’s residents to lead healthy and active lifestyles will require a deliberate focus on where we grow, how we get around, the types of places we build, access to the natural environment, and the individual needs of the diverse populations that we serve.

OBJECTIVE 1.1: INCREASE MOBILITY FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES

Strategy 1.1(a): Build active places

Establish a compact mix of land uses and recreational amenities within or adjacent to the region’s urban centers, corridors, and neighborhoods to create places that make active transportation and recreational physical activity more convenient and foster opportunities for social interaction.

Strategy 1.1(b): Improve last-mile connections

Improve last-mile connections to important destinations across the transit system to ensure convenient and safe travel from transit to final destinations. Prioritize connections to and between major health centers and hospitals, social service providers, grocery stores and other retail services, parks, employment centers, and low-income and economically disadvantaged populations.

Strategy 1.1(c): Build complete streets

Build new streets, and retrofit existing streets, as “complete streets,” to be planned, designed, operated, and maintained to enable safe, convenient and comfortable travel and access for users of all ages and abilities regardless of their mode of transportation by integrating separate facilities for bicycles and pedestrians along with motorized vehicles.


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REGIONAL ACTIONS • Prioritize funding for projects that meet complete streets objectives. (DRCOG)

• Focus resources on building safe pedestrian and bicycle connections from transit stops to neighborhoods and activity centers within communities. (DRCOG and other partners)

• Facilitate public/private partnerships to address last mile connectivity issues associated with regional transit.

LOCAL ACTIONS • Adopt policies and implementing regulations that promote a mix of uses and active public spaces.

• Adopt and implement street standards that meet complete streets objectives in a variety of contexts (urban/suburban).

• Prioritize funding for projects that meet complete streets objectives.

OBJECTIVE 1.2: INCREASE ACCESS TO SAFE AND HEALTHY FOOD

Strategy 1.2(a): Expand local food production, processing, and distribution

Expand opportunities for local food cultivation and processing, and the addition of more healthy food outlets in urban/semi-urban settings throughout the region, with a particular emphasis on increasing access and opportunities in low-income neighborhoods and food deserts and increasing the efficiency of food distribution. Support the integration of farmer’s markets and other green markets within urban centers.

Strategy 1.2(b): Protect Agricultural Capacity

Protect the region’s capacity for large-scale food production and reduce food-shipping distance by identifying and maintaining the viability of agricultural lands in rural and semi-rural areas.

REGIONAL ACTIONS • Monitor the accessibility of health centers and food options from transit through periodic updates to

the Denver Regional Equity Atlas (DRCOG)

• Develop a regional food assessment and plan in collaboration with other stakeholders in the region and consider creation of a regional food system council as a potential outcome of this effort. (DRCOG and other stakeholders)

• Encourage the creation of a network of food hubs to facilitate the processing and distribution of local food, particularly in support of farmers markets.

LOCAL ACTIONS • Adopt and implement policies and regulations that increase opportunities for local food production by

allowing community gardens, keeping of fowl and small livestock, and small-scale agricultural operations and also increase opportunities for food processing and distribution.

• Provide incentives to grocers who locate in urban centers and underserved areas of the community.


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OBJECTIVE 1.3: MAXIMIZE OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATION AND ACCESS TO THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Strategy 1.3(a): Improve Transit Connections to Recreational Opportunities

Align transit service plans with the region’s network of recreational facilities and parks and open space areas to increase recreational opportunities, particularly for populations that are currently underserved. Support smaller scale parks and recreation facilities as a key element of urban centers throughout the region.

Strategy 1.3(b): Expand Regional Trail Network

Identify and prioritize the completion of “missing links” in the regional trail network and last-mile connections between transit stations and trails to increase multimodal options for residents and commuters.

REGIONAL ACTIONS • Organize attention around the need for green space and recreational amenities in urban centers.

• Collaborate with local governments in areas identified as part of the Regional Equity Atlas as having the greatest need on the identification and implementation of priority projects.

LOCAL ACTIONS • Focus on completing “missing links” in the regional trail network and last-mile connections to transit

stations.

• Adopt policies and regulations to support parks and recreational facilities in urban centers.

• Consider providing incentives for projects for that provide a range of recreational options for residents.

Outcome 2: Residents of all ages, abilities, and financial means have expanded connections to care within the region. In order to enhance the overall health and wellness of the regional population, a range of factors that shape access to care must be considered—the types care available, the location, convenience, and accessibility of health care facilities and providers, and the ability of the region’s residents to pay for the care offered in light of their combined housing and transportation costs.

OBJECTIVE 2.1: IMPROVE CONNECTIONS TO MAJOR HEALTH CARE CENTERS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS

Strategy 2.1(a): Location of Providers

Support the integration of health care facilities into urban centers throughout the region where they may be more readily accessed using transit. Consider both the addition of health care facilities to existing urban centers and the creation of new urban centers surrounding major health care facilities.


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Strategy 2.1(b): Transit Service

Align transit service— including on-demand and other specialized services— with major health centers and hospitals, social service providers, grocery stores and other retail services, parks, employment centers, low-income and economically disadvantaged populations.

REGIONAL ACTIONS • Conduct periodic updates to the Regional Equity Atlas and collaborate with local and state public

health departments to conduct additional research at a neighborhood level to help inform discussions surrounding areas of the greatest need.

• Collaborate with local governments in areas of the greatest need to define the key attributes of wellness districts and implement priority projects.

LOCAL ACTIONS • Adopt and implement policies and regulations that allow health care clinics/services by right in urban

centers, employment campuses, retail centers, and other centers of activity and encourage the development of urban centers surrounding major health care facilities.

• Collaborate with regional stakeholders and service providers to identify and implement priority projects in the areas of the greatest need.

• Link economic development incentives to employers that address community health care needs.

OBJECTIVE 2.2: INCREASE AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS ISSUES AND SUPPORT NETWORKS

Strategy 2.2(a): Promote Collaboration

Identify and implement opportunities for collaboration among regional stakeholders on projects and initiatives related to community health and wellness. Place a particular emphasis on projects and initiatives that present opportunities to reduce or eliminate duplicative efforts.

Strategy 2.2(b): Promote Coordination with Other Efforts

Identify specific opportunities for collaboration with public health organizations, health care providers, local governments, school districts, and others leading the charge on community health and wellness issues that help advance current programs and efforts.

Strategy 2.2(c): Increase Awareness

Promote awareness of the range of programs, facilities, and other assistance available to help residents lead healthier and more active lifestyles and opportunities for them to become involved in related efforts at the local and neighborhood level.

REGIONAL ACTIONS • Convene regular meetings of regional stakeholders—health care providers, local governments, public

health organizations, business leaders, the development community, foundations, advocacy groups,


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school districts, insurance providers, police and fire officials, neighborhood associations and others—surrounding health and wellness projects and initiatives of regional significance.

• Establish a central clearinghouse of information to support health and wellness initiatives throughout the region (e.g., regional health indicators, programs, best practices).

LOCAL ACTIONS • Integrate health and wellness issues and supporting information into plan and policy development and

decision-making.

Outcome 3: Diverse housing options meet the needs of all residents. This section to be developed based on additional input from MVIC Ad Hoc Housing Group.

OBJECTIVE 3.1: TBD

Strategy 3.1(a): TBD

To be added.

OBJECTIVE 3.2: TBD

To be added.


To be added.

OBJECTIVE 3.3: TBD

To be added.


To be added.

REGIONAL ACTIONS • TBD

LOCAL ACTIONS • TBD


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Tracking our Progress/Measures of Success The table below contains some possible measures for discussion purposes. Additional discussion with staff and stakeholders is needed to identify the most effective measures and appropriate targets. Key considerations in selecting measures will include the overall availability of data and the extent to which measures are currently being tracked by DRCOG or others in the region to minimize overlap and promote efficiency.

OUTCOMES/OBJECTIVES POSSIBLE MEASURES POSSIBLE TARGETS

Outcome 1. A built and natural environment that supports healthy and active lifestyle choices leading to a healthy and well population. Objective 1.1: Increase mobility for all ages and abilities

• Miles of new trails/sidewalks • Transit service levels and

frequency • Number of parks and

recreation facilities in Urban Centers

• Completion of last mile connections in underserved areas

Objective 1.2: Increase access to safe and healthy food

• Acres of agricultural land in urban/semi-urban and rural context

• Numbers and locations of community gardens

• Numbers and locations of “food deserts”

• Number of local plans and codes that address food access

• Maintain agricultural acres in rural context

• Increase in urban/semi-urban context

• Reduction in “food deserts” in low income and underserved areas

Objective 1.3: Maximize opportunities for recreation and access to the natural environment

• Miles of “missing links” in the regional trail network

• Specified reduction in number of miles in “missing links”

Outcome 2. Residents of all ages, abilities, and financial means have expanded connections to care within the region. Objective 2.1: Improve connections to major health care centers and service providers

• Number of major health care centers and service providers served by transit

• Number of care facilities located in urban centers

• Increase by X

Objective 2.2: Increase awareness and knowledge of community health and wellness issues and support networks.

• Number of meetings convened with regional stakeholders

• Specific projects would need to be defined through collaborative discussion


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Outcome 3. Diverse housing options meet the needs of all residents. To be added • To be added To be added • To be added To be added • To be added

Toolkit for Local Action: Healthy, Inclusive, and Livable Communities To be added.

ATTACHMENT C

To: Chair and Members of the Metro Vision Planning Advisory Committee

From: Brad Calvert, Metro Vision Manager 303-480-6839 or [email protected]

Meeting Date Agenda Category Agenda Item #

August 20, 2014 Informational 5

SUBJECT

MVPAC will review and provide feedback to staff on the draft language of a potential revised element of Metro Vision 2040: A Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment.

PROPOSED ACTION/RECOMMENDATIONS

No action requested. This item is for information.

ACTION BY OTHERS

N/A

SUMMARY

As drafted, the Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment element of Metro Vision 2040 replaces the Environment element of Metro Vision 2035. The draft element includes significant updates and edits reflecting stakeholder input.

MVPAC provided initial feedback on parks and open space issues in April 2014. The Metro Vision 2040 Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) also discussed parks and open space. The CAC hosted community conversations and distributed surveys related to our region’s natural and recreational amenities.

Noteworthy changes to the existing plan (Metro Vision 2035) element are described below.

Key natural environment issues (air and water) are combined, including specific references to greenhouse gas emissions.

Minor changes are proposed to water quality and conservation sections – including removing references to DRCOG’s Clean Water Plan. DRCOG no longer maintains this plan, nor does DRCOG review waste water utility plans.

The draft element provides a single outcome for parks and open space, but includes specific objectives and strategies for each. The importance of trail and greenway connections is also noted.

The importance of protecting agricultural lands is highlighted in the revised element. This issue is also raised in the draft Healthy, Inclusive and Livable Communities element. As the overall draft comes together staff will determine if this topic should “live” in one section vs. the other – or remain in both.

The revised element includes an outcome and related objectives and strategies on the issue of natural and manmade hazards – an issue consistently identified by stakeholders during plan development.

The “noise” section of the existing element has been removed.

The draft Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment element is attached, as is the Environment element of Metro Vision 2035.

MVPAC members are asked to review the Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment element and provide feedback to staff during the meeting.


Metro Vision Planning Advisory Committee August 20, 2014 Page 2

PREVIOUS DISCUSSIONS/ACTIONS

MVPAC – June 19, 2013 April 16, 2014

PROPOSED MOTION

N/A

ATTACHMENTS

1. Metro Vision 2040 - Draft Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment element 2. Draft Preservation Focus Areas map 3. Metro Vision 2035 – Environment element

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you need additional information, please contact Brad Calvert, Metro Vision Manager, at 303-480-6839 or [email protected].

https://drcog.org/sites/drcog/files/resources/MVPAC%20Mtg%2006-19-13%20Summary%20FINAL.pdf

https://drcog.org/sites/drcog/files/resources/MVPAC%20Mtg%2004-16-14%20Summary%20FINAL_BC.pdf



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A Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment

Introduction

The Denver region’s unique setting and natural environment is one of our greatest assets. Mountain views,

an abundance of natural amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities, and a pleasant climate have

helped spur steady and sustained growth in the region for decades. As the area becomes more populous,

our region must take care to ensure these assets, and the quality of life enjoyed by so many, don’t

disappear.

In the more than twenty years since Metro Vision was first adopted, the region has made great strides in its

efforts to protect significant open space and agricultural lands—both at the local level and through

collaborative regional efforts. Progress on the development of numerous parks and an interconnected

regional trail and greenway system has also been significant, although a number of “missing links” remain.

One unfortunate consequence of the region’s growth has been the increase in the number of residents

who live in areas that while scenic, are at higher risk for natural disasters such as flooding and wildfire. As a

result, the region has faced significant social and economic challenges with respect to its ability to respond

to and recover from major events.

Metro Vision’s outcomes, objectives, and strategies seek to protect our region’s natural resources, increase

access to recreational opportunities, and promote more resilient communities. Desired outcomes of these

objectives and strategies are as follows:

Essential natural resources—air and water—are protected for current and future generations.

An interconnected network of open space, parks, and trails is widely accessible to the region’s

residents;

Agricultural lands of significance are conserved for current and future generations; and

Reduced risk and effects from natural and manmade hazards.

(SIDEBAR) CONNECTING THE DOTS: WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? (Linkages to other sections/issues)

An Efficient and Predictable Development Pattern. Where and how we grow and get around the region has a significant effect on our air and water quality, and the health of our natural environment. Slowing the expansion of the urban area; supporting mixed, higher‐intensity land uses; and increasing density in urban centers will be key development strategies to increase transit usage and reduce growth in vehicle trips and miles of travel—all of which help reduce harmful emissions. Incorporating smaller parks, community gardens, and other types of open space as part of, or adjacent to, urban centers will also help reduce the need for vehicular trips.

A Connected Region. While the region’s trails and greenways are often viewed as primarily a recreational amenity, they play a critical role in the transportation system by increasing multimodal options for residents and establishing efficient linkages between neighborhoods, employment hubs, and other activity centers. Increased options for transportation and overall mobility can have a profound influence on public health and community livability. Safe and convenient access to transportation options such as walking and biking provides opportunities for populations to experience less stress and blend physical activity and transportation needs, which can positively influence overall health. Transportation modes and commuting


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patterns also directly affect regional air quality. By reducing air pollution levels, the DRCOG region can reduce the burden of disease from stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and both chronic and acute respiratory diseases, including asthma.

Healthy, Inclusive, and Livable Communities. The conservation and stewardship of our region’s air, water, and other natural resources are critical in maintaining the health of people, as well as the other ecological systems that support life. In addition, access to parks, trails, and open space also affect regional and community health and wellness. People who live near these amenities are more likely to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily lives and, as a result, are more likely to maintain healthy weights and benefit from regular physical fitness.

A Vibrant Economy. Businesses and residents alike choose to move to—and stay in—the region because of its scenic natural environment, wide open spaces, and access to ever‐expanding recreational opportunities and numerous other quality of life amenities. These features play an important role in the region’s success in recruiting companies and skilled employees and attract visitors from around the globe who travel to the region to hike, bike, ski, and pursue a host of other outdoor pursuits. The ability of our region to maintain the quality of these assets and the ability for residents and visitors to readily access them is critical to continued economic health.

Outcome 1: A region with high quality water, clean air, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Ongoing efforts to reduce ground level ozone, greenhouse gas emissions, and other pollutants

will be necessary to improve the region’s air quality over time, reduce dependence on foreign oil,

and respond to the potential impacts of a changing climate. In addition, the wise use of the

region’s limited water resources will be promoted through efficient land development,

implementation of sustainable site design and development practices, conservation programs,

and other strategies to ensure future growth is sustainable and compliant with standards

established by the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission and other state and local

requirements.

OBJECTIVE 1.1: MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE AIR QUALITY

Strategy 1.1(a): 20FPromote efficient development patterns

Promote development patterns that help replace or reduce the need for motor vehicle trips and thereby

reduce growth in vehicle emissions.

Strategy 1.1(b): Incentivize alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure

Incentivize the purchase and use of alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure, reducing the need for fossil

fuels, enhancing energy security, promoting environmental stewardship, creating jobs, and reducing

vehicle ownership costs.

Strategy 1.1(c): Support alternative transportation

Increase multimodal transportation options for residents, employees, and visitors such as ride‐sharing,

transit use, bicycling, or walking, reducing vehicle miles traveled and vehicle emissions.


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Strategy 1.1(d): Improve the operation of transportation facilities

Improve the efficiency of the transportation system in the region by implementing multi‐jurisdiction

operational improvements, providing travelers dependable travel information, and reducing the time and

impact of traffic incidents.

Strategy 1.1(e): Collaborate with local and regional partners on air quality initiatives

Collaborate with local and regional partners, such as the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC), the

Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), and the Regional Transportation District (RTD) on efforts

to improve air quality through reductions in ground level ozone concentrations, and Carbon Monoxide

(CO) and PM10 emissions.

Call‐out box: Ozone – a Persistent Problem

In 2007, the Denver region was found out of compliance with federal air quality standards for high levels of ground‐level ozone. Ozone is a pollutant which forms when emissions from motor vehicles, gasoline‐powered equipment, oil and gas wells, electric power plants, and industry react in the presence of sunlight. High levels of ozone can impair breathing and affect respiratory health, primarily for children, the elderly, and physically active people.

Due in large part to a growing Front Range population and associated increases in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and coal‐generated electricity, the Denver region is likely to violate the standard again in the near future. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a new, stricter ozone standard which will present an even greater challenge moving forward. In order to reduce harmful ozone and meet federal air quality standards, DRCOG and its air quality partners must continue to work together to implement a broad range of strategies for emission reductions, including cleaner vehicles and Metro Vision policies such as the Urban Growth Boundary/Area and investment in multimodal transportation infrastructure, which will help lower ozone levels by reducing the need to drive.

Strategy 1.1(f): Increase public awareness of air quality issues

Continue to increase public awareness of the direct role individual actions play in pollutant and greenhouse

gases emissions and promote the benefits of behaviors that protect regional air quality and reduce

greenhouse gases.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Continue to support programs and public awareness campaigns, such as Way to Go, Ozone Aware, and

others that promote behavior shifts on an individualized level.

Incentivize the use of cleaner technologies, such as alternative fuel vehicles.

Facilitate communication and project implementation between state, regional, and local agencies to

maximize the efficiency of the transportation network.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Review and modify local comprehensive plans and development regulations to improve community

accessibility and to enhance pedestrian, bicycle, and transit travel opportunities.


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Develop infrastructure needed to support the use of alternative fuel vehicles and the use of alternative

modes, such as charging stations, bicycle racks, and shower facilities for employees.

Update business and government fleets to alternative fuel vehicles.

Develop specific plans and strategies to operate roadways more efficiently (e.g., traffic signal

coordination and better manage traffic incidents.

OBJECTIVE 1.2: RESTORE AND MAINTAIN THE INTEGRITY OF THE REGION’S WATERS

Strategy 1.2(a): Require adequate wastewater facilities for new development

Support development only in areas where sewer service is already available or is planned, where new

wastewater facilities can be established consistent with state‐adopted stream standards or in areas where

on‐site or individual sewage disposal systems are deemed appropriate.

Strategy 1.2(b): Promote best management practices

Ensure development in the region follows best management practices for addressing nonpoint pollution,

such as stormwater retention or on‐site water treatment technologies, and grading, erosion, and sediment

control ordinances to minimize sediment and other pollutant runoff into the region’s waters.

Strategy 1.2(c): Pursue water protection and management initiatives

Define water quality protection and water resource management initiatives that will achieve a locally

defined, balanced community of fish and other aquatic life. Take into account the needs of both the

natural environment and other resource uses, such as water supply.

Strategy 1.2(d): Limit opportunities for groundwater contamination

Discourage the location of waste injection wells, sanitary landfills, and other uses that present potential for

harmful discharge over alluvial aquifers or above recharge areas to bedrock aquifers to avoid groundwater

contamination. Encourage appropriate mitigation measures, as adopted by the Colorado Water Quality

Control Commission, for development over areas with permanently high groundwater levels.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Coordinate with the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission and other stakeholders to support

the implementation of adopted water quality plans and programs.

Develop and maintain data and mapping of aquifers, recharge areas, well heads, landfills, and other

information to help inform local land use decisions that may affect the region’s groundwater

resources.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Adopt and implement grading, erosion, and sediment control ordinances to minimize sediment and

other pollutant runoff.

Adopt policies and regulations for industrial uses to limit opportunities for potential groundwater

contamination.


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OBJECTIVE 1.3: REDUCE GROWTH IN REGIONAL PER‐CAPITA WATER CONSUMPTION

Strategy 1.3(a): Facilitate collaborative efforts to promote water conservation

Facilitate collaborative efforts among local governments, water providers, the design and development

community, and other regional stakeholders to promote water conservation.

Strategy 1.3(b): Reduce water consumption in new and existing development

Encourage compact development, through infill and redevelopment and the concentration of new

development in or adjacent to urban centers, to help reduce water demand and related infrastructure

costs.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Collaborate with local and regional partners to increase the awareness and implementation of Best

Practices and incentives available to support conservation efforts.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Promote water conservation through ordinance revisions and public education activities that

encourage the use of low‐flow plumbing devices, drought tolerant and native vegetation for

landscaping, and other low‐impact site development techniques in new development and

rehabilitation projects.

Collaborate with adjoining communities, water districts, and other providers on efforts to promote the

efficient delivery and use of water and infrastructure.

Outcome 2: An interconnected network of open space, parks, and trails is widely accessible to the region’s residents.

As the region continues to grow, the protection of its diverse natural resource areas—its mountain

backdrop, unique prairie landscapes, extensive riparian corridors, and other open space areas will

be essential. Together, these protected areas will help define the urban area, establish both

linkages and separation between individual communities, provide important wildlife habitat, and

protect the health of our water and ecological systems. In conjunction with local and regional

parks and the extensive trails and greenways that connect them, these areas will also provide the

region’s residents with the opportunity to participate in a variety of recreational pursuits that

support community health and wellness.

OBJECTIVE 2.1: PROTECT OPEN SPACE OF LOCAL AND REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE

Strategy 2.1(a): Protect important natural resources and other preservation focus areas

Conserve and protect important natural resources, such as surface waters, riparian areas, wetlands, forests

and woodlands, prairie grasslands, wildlife habitats, other environmentally sensitive lands, commercial

mineral deposits, and other preservation focus areas (as identified on page X).


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Strategy 2.1(b): Preserve features of scenic, historic, and educational value

Preserve prominent geologic and geographic features and important cultural resources for the visual,

historic, and educational value they provide to the region.

Text Box/Maps: Priority Preservation Areas

Metro Vision encourages preserving open space in priority preservation areas, as shown in Figure X. Existing parks and open space managed by all levels of government are also shown. Priority preservation areas reflect places that are characteristic of the region’s unique landscape and/or play an important role in achieving an interconnected network of open space, parks, and trails is widely accessible to the region’s residents. Key focus areas include:

Mountain preservation areas—intended to protect views of the foothills and high peaks, conserve unique geologic features such as the red rock hogbacks that span the length of the southern Denver metropolitan area, and visually distinguish urbanized parts of the region from its mountain backdrop.

Plains preservation areas—intended to protect areas of regional significance, including important habitat area along Box Elder Creek and the wildlife corridor from the Rocky Mountain Arsenal to the Lowry Range property, among others.

Reservoirs and rivers preservation areas —intended to protect six major reservoirs in the region and an extensive network of river and other drainage corridors. These corridors include the 100‐year floodplain and, where practical, additional lands that buffer the floodplain and protect important habitat and other valuable resources.

Regional greenways—greenways such as the South Platte, High Line Canal, Sand Creek, Cherry Creek, Bear Creek, Mary Carter, Ralston Creek, Clear Creek, Little Dry Creek, C‐470 and Colorado Trail, connect the region’s communities, function as critical wildlife corridors, and provide a wealth of recreational opportunities. Other proposed greenways that will ultimately complete the system include the Rocky Mountain Greenway, Colorado Front Range Trail, northern parts of the South Platte Greenway, and the St. Vrain Greenway.

< INSERT PRESERVATION FOCUS AREA MAPS HERE>

Strategy 2.1(c): Use open space as a tool to shape growth and development patterns

Protect open space lands that will help support desired growth and development patterns by establishing

linkages within or between communities, maintaining separation between freestanding communities,

shaping urban centers or neighborhoods, and/or providing increased access to open space.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Foster regional coordination surrounding preservation focus areas to leverage local, regional, and state

funding available for parks, open space, and trails and expedite the completion of priority projects.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Prioritize the protection of open space in preservation focus areas and other locations that help fill

“missing links” in the regional open space and greenway system in local plans and funding programs.

Adopt policies and establish guidelines or standards that promote the incorporation of natural features

into new developments.


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Adopt open space set aside or fee‐in‐lieu requirements for future development.

Coordinate with adjoining communities and municipalities and other organizations, such as Great

Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) to help leverage available funding.

OBJECTIVE 2.2: PROVIDE A PARKS SYSTEM THAT IS WIDELY ACCESSIBLE TO THE

REGION’S RESIDENTS

Strategy 2.2(a): Support a diversity of parks to meet the region’s needs

Encourage the integration of active and passive parks of all sizes and a full system of recreational facilities

as a core component of the region’s overall growth framework.

Strategy 2.2(b): Increase park accessibility

Enhance multi‐modal connections to existing parks and locate new parks in neighborhoods and other

areas that are accessible to residents on foot, by bike, or using transit, such as within or adjacent to urban

centers.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Organize attention around the need for smaller parks, greenspace, and recreational amenities in urban

centers.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Adopt policies and regulations to enhance connections to parks and support the implementation of

parks and recreational facilities in urban centers.

OBJECTIVE 2.3: ESTABLISH MULTI‐MODAL LINKAGES TO AND BETWEEN THE REGION’S

PARKS AND OPEN SPACES

Strategy 2.3(a): Complete “missing links” in the regional trail and greenways network

Identify and prioritize the completion of “missing links” in the regional trail and greenways network—

exploring all potential connections, including road and railroad rights‐of‐way, floodplains, ditch service

roads and utility corridors.

Strategy 2.3(b): Increase transit access to major greenways and open space areas

Align transit service plans, local trail and sidewalk networks, and other multi‐modal improvements with

major greenways and open space areas to increase the accessibility of these areas to the region’s

residents.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Collaborate with local governments and other regional partners on the identification and

implementation of priority trails and greenway expansion projects.


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LOCAL ACTIONS

Complete local links in the regional greenway and trails network through strategic acquisition or other

means, prioritizing linkages that will enhance connectivity to or within the regional network, or to

nearby communities or urban centers.

Outcome 3: Agricultural lands of significance are conserved for current and future generations.

Agricultural lands are an essential component of the region’s heritage, health, and economic and

cultural diversity. Agricultural operations of all sizes create jobs in the region, support the

economic vitality of rural areas, and promote healthier communities by bringing people closer to

their food source. Protection of agricultural land benefits local producers, saves energy resources,

and offers a level of food security.

OBJECTIVE 3.1: MAINTAIN THE REGION’S CAPACITY TO SUPPORT AGRICULTURAL

OPERATIONS OF ALL SIZES

Strategy 3.1(a): Conserve significant agricultural resources

Conserve agricultural resources of state or national significance, ranches and other grazing lands of local or

regional importance, and other lands that play a key role in the health of regional economy and local food

systems.

Strategy 3.1(b): Expand local food production opportunities

Expand opportunities for local food cultivation urban/semi‐urban settings throughout the region by

establishing provisions for small‐scale commercial agricultural operations and increasing the number of

community gardens being actively used by the region’s residents.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Monitor the quantity and distribution of the region’s active agricultural lands over time using resources

such as those provided by the American Farmland Trust.

Monitor the quantity and distribution of community gardens and small‐urban farms over time, working

with local communities and others, such as Denver Urban Gardens.

Coordinate with local communities and local, regional, and state conservation programs to identify

and protect significant agricultural resources at risk of being lost and identify underserved areas in

urban or semi‐urban settings.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Maintain definitions for agricultural lands and operations at all scales as part of the Future Land Use

map in local comprehensive plans and in local development regulations and ensure agricultural uses

are allowed by right in appropriate areas.


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Direct interested landowners or individuals interested in preserving working lands or starting a new

farming operation to programs and incentives available through the American Farmland Trust,

Colorado Open Lands, and other organizations.

Outcome 4: Reduced Risk and Effects from Natural and Manmade Hazards.

Careful planning with respect to the relationship between natural and manmade hazards and

land use, transportation, and infrastructure investments throughout the region can help reduce

injuries and loss of life; trauma; damage to property, equipment and infrastructure; community

disruption; and economic, environmental, and other losses caused by natural and industrial

hazards should a significant event occur in the future.

OBJECTIVE 4.1: ENHANCE COMMUNITY RESILIENCY

Strategy 4.1(a): Limit development in high risk areas

Discourage development in areas recognized as being at risk of being impacted by natural or manmade

hazards, including but not limited to floodplains, steep slopes, and areas located within the wildland‐urban

interface. Establish guidelines for development in these locations to minimize loss of life and property

should a natural or manmade disaster occur.

Sidebar: What is the Wildland‐Urban Interface?

The wildland‐urban interface, or WUI, is any area where man‐made improvements are built close to, or within, natural terrain and flammable vegetation, and where high potential for wildland fire exists. Studies of the state’s wildland‐urban interface areas in relation to projected growth indicate that these areas are likely to increase from 715,500 acres in 2000 to over 2 million acres in 2030.21F

22 Much of the increase will be focused along the Front Range and within the DRCOG region. Over the last decade, the frequency and intensity of wildfires in Colorado and across the west has increased dramatically. In recent years, severe drought conditions have triggered numerous wildfires near major population centers along the Front Range, raising awareness of the potential dangers of living within the WUI and sparking debate at the state and local level over possible strategies to minimize future risk.

Strategy 4.1(b): Promote integrated planning and decision making

Integrate hazard mitigation considerations into plans and policies at the local and regional level to increase

awareness of the associated risks and costs, identify strategies to minimize threats for existing

development in high risk areas, and to promote informed decision making when future development

within high risk areas is proposed for consideration.

22 Report on the Health of Colorado’s Forests, Colorado State University, 2007.


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Strategy 4.1(c): Prioritize open space protection in high risk areas

Prioritize open space protection efforts in areas recognized as being at risk of being impacted by natural

hazards, including but not limited to floodplains, steep slopes, and areas located within the wildland‐urban

interface. Consider the protection of properties adjacent to, but not within high risk areas, as

opportunities arise to provide additional protections in the event of unique storm events or other natural

disasters in the future.

Sidebar: Flood Recovery Efforts

In September 2013, many communities in the DRCOG region and in other parts of the Front Range experienced massive flooding triggered by an unprecedented rain fall event. Damage to personal property and critical infrastructure was extensive and 8 lives were lost. While the immediate urgency of the situation has passed, the physical, emotional, and economic toll on area communities has not subsided. The reconstruction of critical infrastructure, such as roadways and bridges, in some locations will take many years—forcing the redirection of resources away from other priority projects and hindering the ability of local businesses and residents to move forward. In conjunction with recovery efforts, many communities are actively looking forward to explore ways in which they can reduce risk and develop plans that will increase their resiliency in the future.

REGIONAL ACTIONS

Compile and maintain maps and an accompanying database of regional hazards in coordination with

emergency responders at the local, state, and federal level, as appropriate.

Coordinate with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), the Federal Emergency

Management Agency, emergency responders, and others to help advance planning efforts, assemble

best practices, and increase preparedness at the local and regional level.

LOCAL ACTIONS

Integrate hazard mitigation considerations into local comprehensive plans and development

regulations, either through an integrated plan update process or by reviewing and updating existing

policies and regulations on a more targeted basis.

Collaborate with emergency responders in the review of local plans and development regulations, and

development projects of significance.

Incorporate Colorado State Forest Service Firewise guidelines into the land development and building

permit approval process.


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Tracking our Progress/Measures of Success: A Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment (NEW)

The table below contains some possible measures for discussion purposes. Additional discussion with staff

and stakeholders is needed to identify the most effective measures and appropriate targets. Key

considerations in selecting measures will include the overall availability of data and the extent to which

measures are currently being tracked by DRCOG or others in the region to minimize overlap and promote

efficiency.


Outcome 1. A region with high quality water, clean air, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Objective 1.1: Improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

State and federal standards TBA

Objective 1.2: Restore and maintain the integrity of the region’s waters

State and federal standards TBA

Objective 1.3: Reduce growth in regional per‐capita water consumption

Reduced per‐capita usage for residential uses

Reduced per‐capita usage for non‐residential uses

TBA

Outcome 2. An interconnected network of open space, parks, and trails is widely accessible to the region’s residents.

Objective 2.1: Protect open space of local and regional significance

Acres of open space Percentage of priority

preservation areas that have been protected

Set a goal for additional open space acquisition—either base on UGB growth rate or household population growth rate

Objective 2.2: Provide a parks system that is widely accessible to the region’s residents

Percentage of regional households located within ¼ of a park (may need to vary distance by type of park)

Increase by X above baseline

Objective 2.3: Establish multi‐modal linkages to and between the region’s parks and open spaces

Miles of “missing links” completed

Total miles of greenways and trails

TBA


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Outcome 3. Agricultural lands of significance are conserved for current and future generations.

Objective 3.1: Maintain the region’s capacity to support agricultural operations of all sizes

Acres of agricultural land

(within urban growth

boundary and without)

Numbers of community

gardens

TBA

Outcome 4. Reduced Risk and Effects from Natural and Manmade Hazards.

Objective 4.1: Enhance Community Resiliency

TBA TBA

Toolkit for Local Action: A Safe, Healthy Built and Natural Environment (NEW)

To be added.

Major Trails

Preserved Open Space

National ParksState ParksFederal Land

Other Parks and Open Space

Mountain Plain Preservation AreasRiver Reservoir Preservation Areas

Urban Growth Boundary/AreaDRCOG Counties

±0 5 10Miles

Preservation Focus Areas

Metro Vision 2035 Plan

The Denver region’s environmental setting is one of our greatest assets. Mountain views, large expanses of land and pleasant weather have drawn people to the area for centuries. As the area becomes more populous, our region must take care to ensure these assets don’t disappear. The goals and policies in this section of the plan seek to preserve adequate open space, clean air and water for generations to come. The maps on this page highlight some key preservation focus areas our region has identifi ed.

Environment

Mountain and Plains Preservation Focus AreasParks and Open Space 2004Urban Growth Boundary 2035

Legend

LegendRiver and Reservoir Preservation Focus Areas

Parks and Open Space 2004

Urban Growth Boundary 2035

More detailed maps and background infor-mation related to Metro Vision’s Environment section are available on the DRCOG website at www.drcog.org.

LegendRiver and Reservoir Preservation Focus Areas

Parks and Open Space 2004

Urban Growth Boundary 2035

32

Preservation Focus Areas

Parks and Open Space

Vision: By 2035, the region will have protect-ed its major natural resource areas, including the mountain backdrop, riparian corridors, and other key open space and wildlife habitat. Several key working farms and ranches adjacent to the urban area will be preserved. Recreational areas in both devel-oped parks and passive open space will be readily available and accessible to the region’s residents. The region’s open space will help defi ne the urban area and separate communities.

Goal: Establish an integrated, linked, perma-nent parks and open space system that will include a variety of open space and make appropriate open space accessible to all of the region’s population. A minimum of 880 total square miles of parks and open space should be protected by 2035.

Policies

1. Focus Areas. Metro Vision encourages preserving open space in key focus areas, as shown on page 32.

2. Agriculture. Agricultural resources of state or national signifi cance, and ranches and other grazing lands of local or regional importance should be preserved. They are integral to the

February 16, 2011

region’s heritage, and economic and cultural diversity.

3. Natural Resources. Natural resource areas will be conserved and protected for future generations. Important natural resources include surface waters, riparian areas, wetlands, forests and woodlands, prairie grasslands, wildlife and wildlife habitat, other environmentally sensitive lands and commercial mineral deposits.

4. Hazard Areas. Where practical, natural (geophysical) and human- made environmental hazard areas will be used and managed to contribute to a regional open space system in the region. Public rights-of- way, such as utility corridors and other places where land development is constrained, should also be used to augment open space.

5. Recreation. The physical and aesthetic enjoyment of the out-of- doors will be provided for in an integrated regional parks and open space system.

6. Urban Shaping. Protected open space lands will help shape future urban growth and land develop-

ment, and encourage communities to be compact.

7. Prominent Features. The region will preserve prominent geologic and geographic features and important cultural resources for their visual, historic and educational values.

8. Trails Network. Metro Vision calls for an area-wide trails network to link open space and provide access. This network should take full advantage of all potential connections, including road and railroad rights-of-way, fl oodplains, ditch service roads and utility corridors.

33

Water Conservation

Vision: The Denver metro region will maxi-mize the wise use of limited water resources through effi cient land development and other strategies, recognizing that no single strategy will meet the state’s water needs and the region will need to pursue a range of strategies concurrently.

Goal: Reduce regional per capita municipal and industrial water use by working with municipalities, counties, water providers and other stakeholders within the next 6 to 12 months (February 2012) to identify a specifi c numeric target or measurable benchmark against which to measure progress.

Policies

1. Regional Collaboration. DRCOG will bring together local governments, water providers and other stakeholders to facilitate collaborative eff orts to promote water conservation.

2. Best Practices. DRCOG will work to increase understanding of the link between land development and water demand, and to identify best practices for promoting the effi cient use of water resources across the region.

Metro Vision 2035 PlanFebruary 16, 2011

3. Effi cient Land Development. Compact development, infi ll and redevelopment consistent with DRCOG’s urban growth boundary/ area and urban centers policies will help reduce water demand and related infrastructure costs.

34

Water Quality

Vision: As a semi-arid region, the Denver area values its water resources. Metro Vision seeks to ensure that, to the extent possible, every stream, lake and reservoir in the area will be fi shable and swimmable. The Colo-rado Water Quality Control Commission identifi es standards for the anticipated uses of water resources in the state. These stan-dards will be achieved to protect water quality. DRCOG’s Clean Water Plan, a com-panion document to the Metro Vision Plan, provides the forum for discussing water quality goals. Interested parties within the region have diff erent interpretations of the meaning of “clean” water. By coordinating water quality planning at the regional level, DRCOG will balance these divergent commu-nity interests. Matching wastewater facilities plans with expected urban growth will reduce infrastructure costs. New facilities will be sized to match demand and built as needed. The planning will also ensure potential confl icts between diff erent provid-ers are avoided. The best management practices for addressing nonpoint pollution will also allow urban development to take place with the least impact on water quality.

Goal: Restore and maintain the chemical and physical integrity of the region’s waters to ensure clean water for residents and a balanced, healthy, ecological community.

Policies

1. Wastewater Treatment. Metro Vision calls for identifying an eff ec- tive regional system of wastewater treatment facilities that meets federal and state standards. Wastewater management strategies will be implemented locally.

2. Wastewater Service. Development should only be allowed in areas where sewer service is already available, where new wastewater facilities can be established consistent with state-adopted stream standards and the Clean Water Plan, or in areas where on-site or individual sewage disposal systems are deemed appropriate.

3. Nonpoint Sources. Local actions will reduce pollution from stormwater and other nonpoint sources. All development in the region should follow adopted grading, erosion and sediment control ordinances to minimize sediment and other pollutant runoff into the region’s waters.

4. Ecological Community. Water quality protection and water resource management initiatives will achieve a locally defi ned, balanced community of fi sh and other aquatic

life. These activities should take into account the needs of both the natural environment and other resource uses, such as water supply.

5. Watersheds. Water quality planning will be coordinated through a bottom-up, watershed-based process. Watershed management strategies will be identifi ed.

6. Water Supply. Integrated resource management programs should be developed that deal eff ectively with the relationships between water quality management and water supply.

7. Aquifers. To avoid groundwater contamination, land uses such as waste injection wells and sanitary landfi lls should not be permitted over alluvial aquifers or above recharge areas to bedrock aquifers. Development over areas with permanently high groundwater levels should use appropriate mitigation measures.

35

Air Quality

Vision: Growth, land development and regional transportation have a signifi cant eff ect on the region’s air quality. The region will develop in a way that reduces growth in transportation-related air pollution. Metro Vision’s development pattern will reduce growth in vehicle trips and miles of travel. Slowing the expansion of the urban area, supporting mixed, higher-intensity land uses, and increasing density around mass transit will be key urban development strategies to increase transit usage. Helping freestanding communities become more self-suffi cient will also help contain the growth of vehicle trips and miles of travel. Because regional air quality is closely linked to automobile emissions, it will be critical to provide alter-natives to the private passenger vehicle, as proposed in the regional transportation plan.

Goal: Protect human health and environmen-tal quality by achieving and maintaining ambient air quality standards.

Policies

1. Mobile Sources. Metro Vision calls for reducing growth in mobile source air pollution emissions by providing travel alternatives, improving the effi ciency of the regional transportation network and changing key features of the development pattern.

Ozone – a Persistent Problem

Ozone, which forms when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react in the presence of sunlight, is a persistent problem in our region. Emissions associated with motor vehicles, gasoline-powered equipment, oil and gas wells, electric power plants, and industry are the primary human sources of ozone formation. High levels of ozone can impair breathing and respiratory health, primarily for children, the elderly and physically active people. In 2007, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated the Denver region plus two counties to the north in non-attainment of federal ozone standards. In 2010, the EPA proposed a further strengthening of the ozone air quality standard. Meeting the new standard will be challenging, due in large part to a growing Front Range population and associated increases in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and use of coal-generated electricity.

The Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) is charged with leading the eff ort to develop and implement a plan to get our region back on track and in compliance with federal standards. Together with DRCOG and other partners, the RAQC is evaluating all the diff erent emission sources, setting goals for emissions reduc-tions, and identifying strategies for achieving those goals. Many Metro Vision policies, such as the Urban Growth Boundary/Area and investment in multimodal transportation infrastructure, will help lower ozone levels by reducing the need to drive.

In combination, these will help achieve national, state and regional air quality objectives. 2. Stationary Sources. Metro Vision calls for reducing the growth in stationary source emissions. 3. Wind Erosion. Metro Vision encourages local governments to review and modify their development regulations to include controls for wind erosion resulting from grading, construction, recreation or poor land management practices, such as overgrazing.

4. Accessibility. Metro Vision encourages local communities to modify their local comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances to improve community accessibility and to provide additional pedestrian, bicycle and transit travel opportunities.

Metro Vision 2035 PlanFebruary 16, 2011

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Noise

Vision: Excessive noise is a nuisance and a potential public health concern. It can also impact property values and destabilize neighborhoods. Metro Vision seeks to ensure residents of the Denver region will have mini-mal exposure to excessive noise levels associated with roadways, trains, aviation, commercial and industrial land uses, special events and temporary construction activity. Minimizing this exposure will help preserve the region’s quality of life.

Goal: Minimize exposure to excessive noise levels associated with land use and transporta-tion activities. Policies

1. Location and Mitigation. Metro Vision calls on the region to ensure new or expanded regional transportation facilities are located and designed to maintain accept- able noise levels. That includes considering adjacent land uses and using appropriate mitigation measures (e.g., landscaping, noise barriers, traffi c control and other noise-attenuating techniques).

2. Retrofi t. Where practical, Metro Vision encourages retrofi tting existing facilities to mitigate noise impacts on adjacent, noise-sensitive land uses.

3. Airport Noise. Metro Vision calls for minimizing noise exposure around airports, consistent with Federal Aviation Administration policies and local airport noise standards.

4. Local Noise Standards. Metro Vision supports local development regulations establishing noise and land use compatibility standards (e.g., use restrictions, buff ering and limitations on hours of operation).

5. New Development. Metro Vision recommends locating new noise- sensitive development away from planned or existing major noise sources such as airports and freeways.

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MVPAC Issues Tracking August 20, 2014

1

MVPAC Introduction Date

MVPAC Further Discussions Project

MVPAC Action to Date

Status/Next Steps

1/23/2013 2/20/2013; 4/24/2013; 5/15/2013; 8/21/2013; 10/13/201; 11/20/2013

Metro Vision 2040 Scenario Analysis

Informational, preliminary input, guidance to Board on initial scenarios (A & B)

Status: DRCOG Board briefed on scenarios in December 2013. Next Steps: Complete

1/23/2013 Metro Vision 2040 Listening Tour

Informational Status: The Listening Tour is complete and available as a final report on the DRCOG website. Process recommendations from the report will be integrated as applicable into the efforts of Metro Vision 2040. Next Steps: Complete

2/20/2013 3/20/2013; 4/24/2013; 8/21/2013; 11/20/2013

Metro Vision 2040 Local Government Survey

Provided recommendations on crafting questions (3/20)

Status: Summary report is complete and has been posted to the DRCOG website. Next Steps: Complete

4/24/2013 Recommendations regarding call for projects for FY14/FY15 Station Area Master Plan/Urban Centers studies

Provided recommendations (4/24)

Status: The DRCOG Board approved funding for 12 studies on September 18, 2013. Next Steps: Complete

1/15/2014 Regional Equity Atlas Informational Status: The Regional Equity Atlas 2.0 has been launched. DRCOG provided MVPAC with an overview of the web based tool on 1/15/2014. Next Steps: Complete

2/19/2014 Infill Redevelopment Issues Paper

Informational Status: MVPAC provided comments on the report during the February meeting. The DRCOG Board of Directors received the final report in March 2014. Next Steps: Complete

3/19/2014 3/19/2014; 6/18/2014

Community Health and Wellness Issues Paper

Informational Status: MVPAC provided comments on the report during the March meeting. The DRCOG Board of Directors received the final report in April 2014. DRCOG staff briefed MVIC on key community health and wellness issues in June 2014. Next Steps: Complete

MVPAC Issues Tracking August 20, 2014

2

MVPAC Introduction Date

MVPAC Further Discussions Project

MVPAC Action to Date

Status/Next Steps

4/16/2014 4/16/2014 6/18/2014

Parks and Open Space Memorandum

Informational Status: In April 2014, DRCOG staff briefed MVPAC on initial findings and recommendations related to the Parks and Open Space element of Metro Vision 2040. DRCOG staff briefed MVIC on key parks and open issues in June 2014.

Next Steps: Complete

5/15/2013 1/15/2014; 5/21/2014; 6/18/2014; 7/16/2014 9/17/2014

Urban Centers Analysis Informational Status: Discussion of 50/75 and other Urban Center policies at July 16th MVPAC meeting.

Next Steps: Continue to identify policy direction for inclusion in Metro Vision 2040. Updated language will be presented to MVPAC in the Fall.

2/20/2013 8/21/2013; 1/15/2014; 3/19/2014; 4/16/2014; 5/21/2014; 6/18/2014

SCI/Metro Vision Housing

Informational Status: Project summary documents are complete and will be shared with technical committees and policymakers. Full reports will be finalized over the coming months.

Next Steps: In July, the Board decided to form an Ad Hoc Working Group (members and alternates) to discuss housing as it relates to Metro Vision 2040. The first meeting will likely be held in September.

3/20/2013 8/21/2013; 1/15/2014; 3/19/2014; 4/16/2014; 6/18/2014

Regional Economic Strategy/SCI Corridor Interviews

Informational Status: Staff is currently reviewing the Draft Regional Economic Strategy. SCI Corridor interviews are complete and a draft report is being reviewed.

Next Steps: In July, the Board decided to form an Ad Hoc Working Group (members and alternates) to discuss economic vitality as it relates to Metro Vision 2040. The first meeting will likely be held in September.

10/16/13 1/15/2014; 2/19/2014; 6/18/2014

Metro Vision 2040 Project Update

Informational Status: MVPAC was updated on a strategy for presenting draft language.

Next Steps: MVPAC will continue to focus on plan elements throughout the year.

7/16/2014 7/16/2014 9/17/2014

Metro Vision 2040 – Draft (Sections I-III)

Informational Status: Working drafts for Section I: Background & Context, Section II: Metro Vision: 20 Years of Progress, and Section III: Building on Success and Facing New Challenges, were discussed in July. Next Steps: Updated language will be presented to MVPAC this fall.

8/20/2014 8/20/2014 Metro Vision 2040 – Draft (Section IV, C & D)

Informational Status: Working drafts of Section IV, C: Healthy, Inclusive, and Livable Communities, and IV, D: A Safe and Resilient Built and Natural Environment will be discussed in August. Next Steps: MVPAC to review and provide comments to staff. Draft language will be presented to MVIC September 1st to identify questions/comments. Updated language will be presented to MVPAC in late fall.

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