viii. public realm design guidelines

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Chapter VIII Public Realm Guidelines VIII. Public Realm Design Guidelines VIII-1 VIII-2 VIII-3 VIII-5 VIII-18 VIII-33 VIII-36 VIII-40 VIII-43 VIII-45 VIII-49 VIII-50 VIII-56 A. Introduction B. Purpose C. Urban Design Treatment D. Village Theme E. Urban Core Theme F . Urban Amenities, The Unifying Elements G. Landscape Treatment H. Sidewalks and Pedestrian Improvements I. Lighting Concepts J. Street Furnishings K. Key Intersections L. Gateways and Wayfinding M. Public Art N. Parks, Plazas, Paseos, and Public Spaces VIII-58 Chula Vista Urban Core

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Page 1: VIII. Public Realm Design Guidelines

�Chapter VIII Public Realm Guidelines

VIII. Public Realm Design Guidelines

VIII-1VIII-2VIII-3VIII-5

VIII-18VIII-33VIII-36VIII-40VIII-43VIII-45VIII-49VIII-50VIII-56

A. IntroductionB. PurposeC. UrbanDesignTreatmentD. VillageThemeE. UrbanCoreThemeF. UrbanAmenities,TheUnifyingElementsG. LandscapeTreatmentH. SidewalksandPedestrianImprovementsI. LightingConceptsJ. StreetFurnishingsK. KeyIntersectionsL. GatewaysandWayfindingM. PublicArtN. Parks,Plazas,Paseos,andPublicSpaces VIII-58

Chula VistaUrban Core

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Chula Vista Urban Core Specific Plan

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Chapter VIII Public Realm Guidelines VIII-�

Fg. 8.�Simulation of H Street public realm at near build-out conditions

VIII. Public Realm Design Guidelines

A. Introduction

The Public Realm Design Guidelines for the Urban Core focus onimprovements topublic rights-of-way,sidewalks,publicopenspace,andkeyintersections.The intentof thischapter is toprovideguidance in creating aunified and visuallyattractiveenvironment thatsupports thespecific plangoals for beautification of the Urban Core. As the Urban Core adds newresidentsandbusinesses,theprovisionofamenitiesisneededtoachievethevision for a well-balanced urban environment. Improving the public realmwith “urban amenities” is designed tocreateasenseofplace,encouragingpeople to gather and stay awhile. The condition of the public realm isimportant forcreating thedesired imageandidentityoftheUrbanCoreandtoprovideaunified backdrop for thedesign ofvariousbuilding stylesandtypes. Public realm improvements serve to improve an area’s visual qualityandactasaninvestmentcatalyst,encouragingprivatepropertyupgradesandnewdevelopment. Theimprovementswillbeimplemented over the term ofthe Urban Core Specific Plan and may occur as comprehensive streetimprovements or may be improved in phases as part of privateredevelopment. Where no immediate private development is likely tooccur, the city mayundertakeimprovementsandseekreimbursementfromfuturedevelopment.

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Chula Vista Urban Core Specific PlanVIII-2

B. Purpose

ThePublicRealmDesignGuidelinesfortheUrbanCorefocusonurbanamenitiesandimprovementstopublicrights-of-way,includingkeyintersections,streets,alleysanddrives,parks,plazas,andgateways.Itidentifie publicstreetdesignelements, landscaping, intersectionenhancements,entry treatments,publicopenspace,right-of-waydetail,andotheruniquepublicrealmfeatureswithintheUrbanCoreinvariousdistricts.Focusingonthepublicright-of-way,theseguidelines attempt to balance pedestrian needs with vehicular and bicycleneeds.Itisnottheintentofthischaptertoprovidespecifi streetgeometricdesignstandardsbutrathertosuggestdesignorientedtreatmentsofthestreetenvironment.StreetandintersectiongeometricdesignisprovidedinChapterV-Mobility.

Theguidelinesinthischapterareintendedtobeusedasaplanningtoolforpublicprojectsandtoguidedevelopmentconditionsofapprovalforprivateprojects.These guidelines contain concepts, graphic material, recommendations anddesign guidance that will aid in near-term implementation of public areaimprovements.

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Chapter VIII Public Realm Guidelines VIII-3

C. Urban Design Treatment

TheurbandesigntreatmentappliedwithintheUrban Core SpecificPlanareaisan importantfactor inreinforcingthedesiredfutureurbanenvironmentasexpressed in theplansvision. Thereare twoprimaryurbandesign themes,see Figure 8.2. Streetscape Themes Map, established for the specifi planarea:

• The Third Avenue “Village” area which consists of an Art Deco/ArtModerne theme intended to support the special pedestrian oriented“café”environmentofthetraditionalDowntownarea.ItappliesonlytoThirdAvenue.

• TheUrbanCoreareawhichconsistsofacontemporarydesignthemeintended tosupportamoreurbanandmarineorientedcharacter. Itappliestoallstreets,intersectionsandfeatureswithintheUrbanCore,exceptThirdAvenue.

Inadditiontodesigntreatmentasdescribedabove,aseriesofgatewayshavebeen identifie to further reinforce theurbancoreof theCityandprovideasenseofarrivalandidentity.Therearebothmajorandminorgatewayseachwithadifferentpurposeandscale.

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Fg. 8.2Streetscape Themes Map

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Chapter VIII Public Realm Guidelines VIII-5

Fg. 8.3Example of a Third Avenue Village branding image that will unify the area

D. Village Theme

1. DescriptionWithin the Third Avenue area, includingportions in the Village, Urban Core andCorridors Districts, an artistic “café” image isdesired. (See Figure 8.2 StreetscapeThemes Map). The Third Avenue VillageAssociation (TAVA) recently completed abranding campaign to create a unifie designthemewhich emphasizes a village characterwhere residentsandvisitorswillhaveaccesstoanarrayoffindining,retailshops,outdoorcafes, coffee houses, specialty stores,boutiquesandentertainmentvenues. Withinthe Third Avenue area, a predominatearchitectural style resembles that of theperiodsfromArtDecotoArtModern,thustheexpressive, artistic, and café related themehas a distinctive Parisian influenc supportiveof the lively day and night time dining andretailenvironment. Allstreet furnishingsanddesign amenities have been recommendedfor their support of this theme such as ArtDeco patterns in special paving, benches,planters, street lights and banners. (SeeFigure8.4VillageStreetscapesTheme.)

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Fg. 8.4Village Streetscape Theme

Bench

StreetLight

ConcretePavingwithRomanBrickBanding

Tiles

TreeGrate

TrashReceptacle

BikeRack

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Fg. 8.7Could also be used as an accent tree on Third Avenue

Fg. 8.6Bauhinia variegata, or Purple Orchid Tree, could be used as an accent tree

Fg. 8.5Chinese Flame Tree could be used along the street edge

2. Landscape Palette

ThefollowingstreettreerecommendationsareapplicabletoThirdAvenue.

a. Street Edge

Koelreuteria bipinnata/Chinese Flame Tree

b. Accent

ArecastrumromanzoffianumQueenPalm

Tabebuia Impetiginosa 'Pink Cloud'

Pink Cloud Pink Trumpet Tree

Chula VistaUrban Core

The Landscape Palette has been assembled to support the design character of the Third Avenue Village. In general, species have been chosen for their cleanliness, ability to survive in an urban environment, and appropriate scale in juxtaposition with adjacent structures. As buildings within the Village are intended to be relatively low in comparison to the balance of the Urban Core area, trees can accordingly be smaller in scale allowing them to relate more readily to the pedestrian dynamic occurring here. Street Edge trees have been selected for their ability to provide dense canopies— cooling the Village area and reducing perceived street widths. Accent trees are to be used to call attention to important intersections, district or city entries, and other key locations.

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Fg. 8.8Example of Third Avenue Village branding image

3. Streetscape Treatments for Third AvenueThird Avenue is intended to function as a destination shopping and Villageorientedvenuewhereanumberofactivitiescantakeplace.Thestreethasthefollowingsegments:

a. E Street to H Street

Thisportion is theheartof the traditionalVillagearea. Within thissegmentthestreethas been designedtohaveonetravellanesineachdirectionwithdiagonal and parallel parking.Thedesignofthissectionwillprovidemid-blockpedestrian cross walks, curb extensions at mid-block and intersections andwidesidewalksthroughout.

The Third Avenue Streetscape Implementation Project (TASIP) – Phase I – between Madrona Street and H Street was completed in 2013. The Third Avenue Streetscape Implementation Project, Phase I (TASIP) was developed pursuant to the vision and innovative concepts laid out in the Urban Core Specific Plan adopted in 2007. The Specific Plan is a form based code which

uses smart growth principles focusing on ways to create more attractive and pedestrian-friendly public environments and gathering places. The TASIP used the following Complete Street design elements to improve an outdated and unsafe area and transform it into a safer, accessible and connected environment while creating a lively destination:

• Road Diet/Narrowed Travel Lanes: ThirdAvenue had varying widths from two-fourlanes and as part of the planning process,which included significant community input,the four lane segment was narrowed toprovide a consistent two lane travel waywhich freed up space for other uses, such as,widened sidewalks, bike lanes, and medians.This critical element of the Project hasresulted in slower vehicle speeds andreduced pedestrian crossing distances.

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Chula VistaUrban Core

Pedestrian Crossings, Mid-Block Crossings, Bulbouts, and Refuge Islands: Accent paving such as unit pavers have been used on crosswalks to accentuate pedestrian crossings. The change in texture and color gives motorists a visual and audible heightened awareness which in turn can slow traffic. In addition, the new planted medians create pedestrian refuge islands reducing the number of traffic lanes a pedestrian must cross at one time; and bulbouts have been used at selected intersections to extend the curbs, create gathering spaces for social interaction while reducing the length of the crosswalks. The improvements comply with ADA requirements and replace existing non-compliant conditions.

• Bike Facilities: Shared lane pavement markings (Sharrows) are placed toguide bicyclists to the best place to ride on the road, and remind drivers toshare the road with cyclists. Bike racks incorporating the Third AvenueVillage logo have been installed at various locations.

• Street Trees and drought tolerant plantings: Inthe spirit of sustainability and in order tomaintain funding efficiencies, a concerted effortwas made to retain as many mature healthytrees and augment street trees plantings at thesidewalk edge and in medians. This effort wassupported by the community and has resulted ina traffic calming effect as they create a visuallyenclosed and perceptually narrower streetscene.

• Street Furnishings and wayfinding signage: The element of street furnishings is key to creating a popular and lively public space and was carefully considered in the context of the existing historic character of the Third Avenue Village. The TASIP reinforces a unified design theme and creates a lively and festive atmosphere by including traditional style 6 foot benches with center arm, custom bus shelters with the logo and colors of Third Avenue, wayfinding directories and signage, and custom tree grates providing more area for pedestrians on the sidewalk while reinforcing the desired urban character.

Fg. 8.8aExample of Median Sign

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Chula Vista Urban Core Specific PlanVIII-�0

Pedestrian and Bicyclist's Experience

One of the main priorities of the TASIP is the enhancement of the pedestrian experience. To address these priorities, the TASP focused on creating an environment that is attractive, well-maintained and draws residents, customers and visitors to enjoy its amenities and surrounding services. In addition, looking to the future with the increased density planned for the area, the vibrant mix of new uses allowed, and pedestrian improvements, walking is expected to become the preferred way to move about the Village. Wide sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, furnishings, planters, tree-lined medians, lighting, wayfinding signage, plazas and paseos contribute to improving the pedestrian experience and encouraging “feet on the street".

Another key priority of the TASIP is to make the road safer for bicyclists. The 2011 Chula Vista Bikeway Master Plan designates Third Avenue as a Class III bike route and recommends to incorporate Shared lane pavement markings (Sharrows) and to increase bicycle parking along this route. Sharrows are placed on Third Avenue to guide bicyclists to the best place to ride on the road, and remind drivers of the context of the downtown, which has narrow traffic lanes, high pedestrian traffic, and low traffic speeds. Sharrows also remind drivers to be cautious when pulling into or out of parking spaces and to look for oncoming cyclists before opening a car door. Now, a safer and predictable environment has been created where motorists are aware of the space that cyclists are likely to occupy in the lane. Bike racks incorporating the Village Logo were placed at various locations.

-- Plaza at Memorial Park: One of the priorities for the Third Avenue Streetscape Plan was to reinforce the sense of a center in the downtown. Therefore, a plaza connecting Third Avenue with Memorial Park was created to reinforce the heart of Chula Vista. The plaza on Third Avenue was created by raising the street level to create a table top and it was enhanced by pavers in a decorative paving pattern. The plaza is used for civic events and celebrations.

Outdoor dining areas: Opportunities for outdoor dining areas have been created by using scored colored concrete at building frontages, and at bulbouts.

Street and Pedestrian Lighting: The pedestrian and street lighting, differ from the more utilitarian street lamps found in other areas of the city and instead reflects the historic nature of the downtown Village. Retaining the historical character of the Village was extremely important to the community and the Village theme provides a seamless blend between old and new. The Project also incorporates LED pedestrian and landscape lighting to enhance the safety and enjoyment of Third Avenue and the adjacent public parking areas while saving energy and maintenance costs.

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Chula VistaUrban Core

The TASIP energized an area that was outdated and unsafe and created a sense of place. The TASIP creates a more attractive and pedestrian-friendly public environment and re-invents gathering places with new street furniture, landscaping, sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting, and enhancements to darkened paseos which link to satellite parking lots. Enhancements of urban “green” spaces in the form of parks, plazas, paseos and informal pedestrian spaces make the spaces more usable and provide ongoing opportunities for human activities that create an interactive environment, build a sense of community, and create opportunities for events, entertainment, and gatherings. This reenergized entertainment/retail destination will benefit not only nearby residents but will bring all visitors back to the historic “heart” of the City. The Project positively impacts a significant number of people in the Community and improves the business and residential environment along the street

An important component of the TASIP was an active public participation process. The community outreach effort involved various citizens and interest groups of Chula Vista, the Third Avenue Village Association (TAVA) and community associations such as Crossroads II and the Northwest Civic Association. The TASIP was well received by the various stakeholders that were involved in its development through each step of the public outreach. To

The Third Avenue Village is now an ideal place for a stroll, where pedestrians and bicyclists feel safer and welcomed, drivers slow down to give pedestrians and bicyclists the right of way and visitors can learn about local history while visiting a wide variety of shops, services, entertainment, and restaurants with history and charm. Third Avenue Village, the heart of downtown, is the place where people gather during civic events and celebrations, such as the Farmers Market, Taste of Third Avenue & Art Walk, and the Lemon Festival.

Third Avenue Bus Shelter

keep the lines of communication open during the construction phase, the TAVA continued to hold periodic community info forums to address concerns of businesses, property owners, residents and patrons/shoppers.

Fg. 8.8b

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Chula Vista Urban Core Specific Plan

b. H Street to K Street

This portion of Third Avenue provides an opportunity to expand the traditional village and improve the village pedestrian environment. This segment will have parallel parking on both sides, two travel lanes in each direction, and a center left turn lane. The design of this segment will provide occasional mid-block crossings, curb extensions at mid-block crossings and intersections, and wide sidewalks throughout the length of the section.

c. Third Avennue Streetscape Phase 1 Project

The Streetscape Project Phase 1 Project was completed between Madrona Street and H Street in 2013. The photographs in Figure 8.13 on the following pages show the before and after appearances. Importance should be given to continue the Streetscape improvement theme implemented between E and H Streets.

Third Avenue way finding Fg. 8.8c

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Chapter VIII Public Realm Guidelines

Fg. 8.9Third Avenue Section from E Street to F Street (with diagonal parking)

Fg. 8.�0Third Avenue Plan from E Street to F Street (with diagonal parking)

Note:Laneconfiguration areconceptualandareshownforillustrativepurposesonly.Forlaneconfiguratio recommendationspleaserefertoChapterV-Mobility.

Note:ExistingmediansouthofFStreetwillremain

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Fg. 8.11Third Avenue intersection typical streetscape treatment

Note:Exactdimensionsofspecificdesignelementswillbedeterminedthroughfuturedesigndevelopment.

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Chula VistaUrban Core

Fg. 8.12Third Avenue Plan from E Street to F Street (without diagonal parking)

Note:Laneconfigurationsareconceptualandareshownforillustrativepurposesonly.ForlaneconfigurationrecommendationspleaserefertoChapterV-Mobility.

Fg. 8.13aThird Avenue Streetscape Before & After

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Fg. 8.13b

Fg. 8.13c

Third Avenue Streetscape Before & After

Third Avenue Streetscape Before & After

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Chula VistaUrban Core

Fg. 8.13dThird Avenue Streetscape Before & After

Fg. 8.13eThird Avenue Streetscape Before & After

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VIII-18 Chula Vista Urban Core Specific Plan

E. Urban Core Theme

1. DescriptionWithin theUrbanCore,excludingThirdAvenue,aContemporaryStreetscapeAmenitiesPalettewillcelebratethetwodefinin forcesbehindthedevelopmentofChulaVista’sUrbanCore:theurbancharacterofamaturingmetropolitancenterandtheproximitytothemarineenvironmentofChulaVista’sBayfront.(SeeFigure8.2.StreetscapeThemesMap.)

All street furnishing elements and amenities have been selected for their use of urban materials such as stainless steel, glass and concrete in various forms and styles. Selected street furnishings have been designed to match the gateway features at H Street, E Street, and F Street; staying true to an urban contemporary theme, the street amenities for the Urban Core theme should be simple in form with clean lines and a reputation for durability. (See Figure 8.17 Urban Core Streetscape Theme.)

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Fg. 8.�6Goldenrain Tree can be used as an accent tree

Fg. 8.�5Platanus acerifolia, or London Plane Tree, can be used on the street edge

Fg. 8.�4Magnolia grandiflora, or Southern Magnolia, can be used in medians

2. Landscape PaletteThe landscape palette was assembled tocomplimentthecontemporarydesigncharacterof the Urban Core. In general, these specieswerechosen forcleanliness, ability tosurvivein an urban environment, and appropriatescaleinjuxtapositionwithadjacentstructures.Given the relatively tall buildings envisionedwithintheUrbanCorearea,thesespeciescanbe larger inscaleandcanbeused togroundthebuildingstothestreetsurface.Streetedgetrees were selected for the ability to providedensecanopiestocoolthecoreandtoreduceperceived street widths. Trees placed withinmediansshouldbeslightlymoreshowythanthetrees placed along the street edge, providingvisualrelieffromthepavedstreet.Plantspeciesprovide“showy”qualitiesthroughvariations inleaf texture, seasonal color changes, and/orcolorfulflowerblooms.Accenttreesshouldcallattention to important intersections,districtorcity entries, and other key locations. Thefollowing street tree recommendations areapplicable to E Street, F Street, H Street,BroadwayandWoodlawnAvenue.

a. MedianPhoenixdactylifera DatePalmJacarandamimosifolia* ncnBauhiniavariegataPurpleOrchidTreeMagnoliagrandiflor SouthernMagnolia

b. Street EdgeMagnoliagrandiflor SouthernMagnoliaTabebuiachrysotrichaGoldenTrumpetTreeBrachychitonpopulneusBottleTreePlatanusacerifoliaLondonPlaneTreeFicusrubiginosa RustyleafFig

c. AccentJacarandamimosifolia* ncnAlbiziajulibrissen SilkTreeKoelreuteriapaniculata GoldenrainTreeLagerstroemiaindica CrepeMyrtle

* Requiresminimumplanterwidthof8’-10’.

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Bench

Bench

Pedestrian/SidewalkLighting BikeRack

PavingCombination

TreeGrate

TrashReceptacle

Fg. 8.�7Urban Core Streetscape Theme

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Fg. 8.�8E Street from Third Avenue to Broadway

3. Streetscape Treatmentsa. E Street (Third Avenue to Broadway)

ThesectionofEStreetfromThirdAvenuetoBroadwayisdesignedtofunctionasaprimaryarterial theUrbanCoreandservesbothasathoroughfareandstreet with access to a range of land uses. It is important to maintain widesidewalksspacefortransitfacilitiesandamplestreetlandscaping intheformofstreettreesanddecorativeurbanfurnishings.Theprimarygoalistobeautifythisstreetthrough the installationofstreettreesand furnishings.Thefigure below provides guidance for the development of streetimprovements for EStreet.

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Fg. 8.�9E Street from 300’ east of I-5 to I-5

b. E Street (Broadway to I-5)

ThesectionofEStreetfrom300feeteastofI-5toI-5isdesignedtoserveasaconnection to theChulaVistaBayfrontareaandagateway into theUrbanCore. Thissectionwillaccommodatehigher traffi volumesand functionasaprimaryarterial for theUrbanCore. Therefore it is important tomaintainwidersidewalks,spacefortransitfacilitiesandamplestreetlandscapingintheformofstreettreesanddecorativeurbanfurnishings.Theprimarygoal istobeautifythisstreetthroughtheinstallationofstreettreesandfurnishings.Thefigurebelowprovidesguidance for thedevelopmentofstreet improvementsforEStreet.

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Fg. 8.20F Street from Third Avenue to Garrett Avenue

c. F Street (Third Avenue to Fourth Avenue)

ThesectionofFStreetfromThirdAvenuetoFourthAvenuetraversestheCivicCenterareaand isdesignedtorepresenttheCivic imageoftheUrbanCore.Widersidewalks,specialpaving,maintainingtheexistingraisedplantedmedianwith palm trees and Civic Center monuments at the intersection of FourthAvenueandFStreetarealldesignedtocallattentiontothisspecialarea.Theprimarygoalistobeautifythisstreetandenhancethepedestrianexperiencethroughtheinstallationofaplantedmedianandinstallationofstreettreesandfurnishings. The newly reconfigure and landscaped improvements betweenFourthandGarrettAvenuesarenotexpectedtobemodifiedThefigurebelowprovides guidance for the development of street improvements along thissegmentofFStreet.

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d. F Street (Fourth Avenue to I-5)

This section of F Street traverses both predominately residential neighborhoods and commercial areas and is designated as the primary pedestrian promenade and bike corridor linking the urban core from Third Avenue to the Bayfront. The character of F Street will support the residential scale and feel of the area and provide well lit wide sidewalks and a Class I bike lane for pedestrian and bicycle convenience. The sidewalks in this section will be separated from the parallel parking lane with a landscaped parkway. Existing trees between Fourth Avenue and Broadway will be preserved and integrated into the streetscape theme where possible. A primary goal is to create a pedestrian promenade and bicycle path along this street. The figure below provides guidance for the development of street improvements for F Street.

Fg. 8.2�

As determined by the City's Bikeway Master Plan

F Street from Fourth Avenue to I-5*

*Bike Lane

*Bike Lane

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102’-0”

PROPOSED STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY

Travel WayTravel Way Travel WayTravel Way

70’-0”

Street Width

14’-0”

* Planted Median

8’-0”12’-0”12’-0” 12’-0”12’-0”

Parking

* Median width varies from 4’ to 14’ and is not provided in all locations **As determined by the City's Bikeway Master Plan

6’-0” 6’-0”

16’-0” 16’-0”

5’-0” 5’-0”5’-0” 5’-0”

**Bike **BikeLane Lane

Side-

walk

Side-

walk

Side-

walk

Side-

walk

Fg. 8.22H Street from Third Avenue to Broadway

e. H Street (Third Avenue to Broadway)

ThesectionofHStreetfromThirdAvenuetoBroadwayisdesignedtofunctionasthemainboulevardfortheUrbanCore.Thereforeitisimportanttomaintainwidersidewalks,spaceforpedestrians,bicycles,andtransitfacilitiesandamplestreetlandscapingintheformofstreettreesanddecorativeurbanfurnishings.Theprimarygoalistobeautifythisstreetthroughtheinstallationofaplantedmedian and installation of street trees and furnishings. The figure belowprovidesguidanceforthedevelopmentofstreetimprovementsforHStreet.

Analternativedesigntreatmenttoaggregatethepedestrianzonesandminimizebicycle/pedestrian interactions would be to locate the bike lane adjacent tothecurbandcombinesidewalkareas tocreatea10-footwideconsolidatedfurnishings/sidewalk/browsingzoneforpedestrians.Suchadesigncouldbepursuedduringdevelopmentofprecisestreetscapeplans.

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Fg. 8.23H Street typical streetscape treatment

Note:Exactdimensionsofspecifi designelementswillbedeterminedthroughfuturedesigndevelopment.

Placingstainlesssteelsitefurnishings,suchastrashreceptacles,benches,andlightfixtures intheFurnishingszonecreatesoutdoorgatheringspaces.

Circulartreegrateswithsimplisticornamentationprovideacontemporarycharacter.Treesarespaced40’oncenter.

ScoringandcoloringofconcreteisusedtodelineatethePedestrian,Browsing,Bicycle,andFurnishingszoneswhilestayingconsistentwiththecontemporarycharacter.

HS

treet

f. H Street (Broadway to I-5)

HStreetisenvisionedasthekeytransitboulevardintheUrbanCore.ItservestoconnecttheCityeastoftheI-805totheBayfrontacrosstheI-5.ThesectionofHStreetfromBroadwaytoI-5isdesignedtoserveasasix-lanegatewaytotheUrbanCoreandwillbewidertoaccommodateheavypedestrian,bicycle,transit,andtraffi operations.Theprimarygoal istobeautifythisstreetthroughtheinstallationofaplantedmedianandinstallationofstreettreesandfurnishings.Recognizing the recentstreetscape improvementsmadealong thissegmentofHStreet,thefigure belowprovideguidanceforthedevelopmentofstreetimprovementsforHStreetinthemidtolong-term.

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Travel Way Travel Way

36’-0” 36’-0”

118’-0”

86’-0”

PROPOSED STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY

Street Width

14’-0”

PlantedMedian

6’-0”6’-0”

16’-0” 16’-0”

5’-0”5’-0” 5’-0”5’-0”

*Bike*Bikelanelane

SidewalkSidewalk SidewalkSidewalk

Fg. 8.24H Street Section from Broadway to I-5

Fg. 8.25H Street Section from Broadway to I-5

* As determined by the City's Bikeway Master Plan

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Fg. 8.26Broadway typical streetscape treatment

Note:Exactdimensionsofspecifi designelementswillbedeterminedthroughfuturedesigndevelopment.

g. Broadway

BroadwayisintendedtofunctionasaheavilyusedUrbanCorearterialstreet.Theprimarygoalistobeautifythisstreetthroughtheinstallationofaplantedmedian and installation of street trees and furnishings. The figure belowprovideguidance for thedevelopmentofstreet improvements forBroadway.ExistingmaturetreesalongBroadwaywillberetainedandwillbeaugmentedwithstreettreessuchasthetreesidentifiedinthelandscapepalette.

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Fg. 8.27Broadway Section from C Street to L Street

Fg. 8.28Broadway Plan from C Street to L Street

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* *

* As determined by the Bikeway Master Plan

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Fg. 8.29Woodlawn Avenue

h. Other Primary Streets

The remaining streets in the Urban Core area (Woodlawn Avenue, G Street, I Street, J Street, K Street, L Street, Fourth Avenue, Fifth Avenue, etc.) should be designed to support the desired pedestrian environment through beautification and installation of street trees, landscaping, special paving and furnishings. Figure 8.29 illustrates a typical view of a section of Woodlawn Avenue. Refer to the design treatment and elements for the Urban Core area shown above.

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Fg. 8.30Neighborhood Streets

i. Neighborhood Streets

Typicalneighborhoodstreets intheUrbanCoreare intendedtoreinforcethequalityneighborhoodsthatexist,calmtraffic beautifyandprovideshadefromnewstreettreesandlandscaping.Theprimarygoalistoimprovetheconditionof sidewalks, plant new street trees and make improvements to thepedestrian system such as crosswalks and pedestrian lighting. The figurebelow provides guidance for the development of street improvements forNeighborhoodStreetssuchasDelMarAvenue,ChurchStreet,LandisAvenue,andGarrettAvenue.

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j. Alleys

Thepurposeofthealleysystem isto increaseaccesswithintheurbancore.Theurbancorebenefit from increasedaccess fordeliveryservices,aswellasforresidentialandcommercialparkingareas,throughalleys.Whilealleysshould contain trees, the trees should not interfere with delivery and otherservicefunctions.Adequatelightingofalleywaysisalsoimportant.Alleyswillbeconnectedtostreetswithpaseosorotherpedestrianwalkways.

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Fg. 8.3�Urban greening is the number one improvement priority for the Urban Core

Fg. 8.32Special accent paving can be used on sidewalks

F. Urban Amenities, The Unifying Elements

Thissectiondescribestheimprovementsthathelpincreatingaspecialidentityforaparticulararea. Elementsareselected for theirability tocreatevisualappeal, upgrade the function and attractiveness of the urban environmentandtoassist inenvironmentalenhancement.Streettrees, landscaping,andotherdesigntreatmentsare intendedtoreducesolarheatgain,calmtraffic andimprovethequalityofpedestrianspace.Theseareprincipalgoalsofthespecifi planandkey ingredients,alongwith landusepatterns, inchangingthepredominantcharacteroftheareafromanauto-orientedenvironmenttoapedestrian-orientedurbanvillage.

1. LandscapingLandscaping includes street trees, parkways,sidewalk landscaping, and other accentplants. Urban “greening” is a key feature inredevelopment activities, and while it is notalways “green” in the traditional sense, thefocus is to create comfortable and attractivepedestrian spaces, i.e. plazas, courtyards,paseos,pocketparks,widesidewalks,etc.Theaddition of street trees alone in many casescan be the single biggest improvement to arevitalizingcommunity.

2. Sidewalk TreatmentProvidingasmoothandattractivesidewalk iscriticalinattractingpedestrianuse.Sidewalksneedtobedesignedwithenoughwidthtobecomfortable to stroll down, smooth pavingand special accent paving in select locationsand buffered from fast and noisy vehiculartraffic;specialattentionalsoneedstobepaidtocrosswalks.Properlocation,trafficcontroldevices,andvisualmarkersallareimportantinencouragingusebypedestriansandincreasingsafety.

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Fg. 8.34Signs reinforce the identity of an area

Fg. 8.35Public art is a desirable element that personalizes the urban environment

Fg. 8.33Furnishings attract pedestrians and help to define an area’s character

3. FurnishingsFurnishings consist of amenities such asdecorativestreetlightswithbanners,benches,trash and recycling containers, bollards todefin special edge conditions, newspaperracks,bicycleracksandparkingmeters,transitshelters,specialattractionsatselectlocationssuchaspublicart, fountains,andother focalelements. It is the collection of these urbanamenitiesthathelptodefin thecharacterofanareaandservetoattractpedestriansthereby supporting the adjacent retail shops andoffices

4. SignsSigns are an effective method to reinforcethe identity of an area through graphic arts.Distinctive logos, catch words, colors, andimagescanbedisplayedinaneffectivemannertoadvertisethedesiredimage.Signsalsoarecritical in providing consistency in messageanddirectionstodestinationswith inanareasuch as public parking, public facilities, keyretailcenters,parks,andplazas.

5. Public ArtPublicartisoneofthemostdesirableelementsto personalize an urban environment andconnect it toacommunitiesownuniqueandspecialcharacter.Artcanbeintegraltootherpublicimprovementssuchasuniquebenchesandtrashcontainers,decorativestreet lights,signsandpavingpatternsoritcanbeusedasaspecialplacemakingfeatureand integratedintogatewaysandotherelements.

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Fg. 8.37Intersections can be emphasized in a variety of ways

Fg. 8.36Special paving and a mini-plaza enhance this intersection

6. IntersectionsSpecial paving, sidewalk extensions, gatewayelements, public art, mini-plazas, informationkiosks, enhanced crosswalks, and otherfeatures are elements that can be used toemphasizeselectedintersections.

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Fg. 8.38Trees can be placed in landscaped parkways

G. Landscape Treatment

1. Street TreesStreet trees are a key element to create unifie street scenes and softenotherwise discordant arterials. Adding scale, comfort, foliage colors, andtexturescontribute to theUrbanCore’sunique identityandhelp improveairquality.Followingaregeneralguidelinesforstreettreeplantingandplacement.(Fora listofrecommendedstreettreesforThirdAvenueandtheUrbanCorearea,seeSectionD.VillageThemeandSectionE.UrbanCoreTheme.)

a. Foreachblockonastreet,nomorethanthreespeciesarerecommended.Mixedspeciesresultinbetterlong-termmanagementbecausetheyareless prone to diseases and insects than use of a single species; notallthetreeswillbelostifacatastrophicdiseaseorinfestationshouldoccur.Contrarily,toomanyspeciescreatealackofvisualunityalongthestreet.

b. Installstructuralsoilsystemstodirectnewrootgrowthdownwardbelowhardscape areas. This helps to postpone root damage caused to thesurroundinghardscapeandstructures.Byprovidingdeepwateringandairtorootsystemsasappropriatewhentreesareplantedwithinfi efeetofanypermanentstructure/paving/curbservicelifemaybeachieved.Structuralsoilsystemsarepreferredoverrootbarriersastheyareoftenmoreeffective.

c. Aminimumofsixfeetofstructuralsoildepthshouldbeprovidedfortrees.Thestructuralsoilcanbeprovidedundertreegratesandpavement.

d. Trees that provide attractive fall colors, seasonal flowers, or large amountsofshadearepreferredfortheUrbanCore.Inaddition,species nativeornaturalized to the regionarealsoencouraged.They tend to be easier to maintain as their needs match those of trees occurring

naturally in the region,and theirappearanceblends better with that of the surroundingregionalvegetation.

e. Treegrateswithaminimumwidthof6feet are required within sidewalks and plaza spaces as the grates allow for improved accessibility, increased sidewalk usability area,andareconsistentwith thedesired urban character. The ultimate size of the tree trunk should be considered when choosinggrates;thegrateopeningshould beappropriatelysized toaccommodatea maturetree.

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Fg. 8.39Medians should provide a maintenance strip as a buffer

f. Within landscape parkways and on neighborhood streets (such as FStreetbetweenFourthAvenueandBroadway)useat-gradeplantersanddecomposed granite tree wells instead of tree grates. This treatmentsupportsalessformaldesignandismoreresidentialinnature.Generallythesestreetshavewiderpedestrianzonesandarelikelytohaveroomtoincorporatetreesintotheparkwayplantingareaorinat-gradeplantersortreewells.

g. Streettreeplacementshouldbecarefullyconsideredtoavoidconflictwithfunctionsofadjacentbusinesses.Basedonmaturegrowthofeachspecies,avoidconflictin withoverheadpower lines,utility lines,andstructures. The trees should align with property lines and not blockviewsofstorefrontsbusinessorsignstothegreatestextentpossible.

h. Streettreesshouldbespacedapproximately30feetto50feetoncenterdependingonthespecifi requirementsofeachindividualspecies.

2. MediansMedians and pedestrian refuge islands function as safety features and traffic calming measures while also providing opportunities to aesthetically enhance the streets in the Urban Core. Landscaped medians provide a visual separation between oncoming traffic and create a narrowed lane perception that slows traffic and channels cross traffic turn movements. The medians also create opportunities to provide pedestrian refuges across wide traffic right-of-ways. Located within the driver’s primary line of sight, medians can greatly influence how passing motorists perceive the community. Following are guidelines that give general direction for medians.

a. Select median trees that have high,upright branching structure to avoidinterference with truck and vehicletraffic provide safe sight lines, andminimizeconflict inmaintainingmediantrees.Keepplantmaterialsunderthreefeettalltomaintainsightdistancelinesforpassingvehicles.Atcrosswalksandpedestrian refuge islands, keep plantmaterialbelow18inchesforpedestrianvisibility.

b. Choose species that are drought tolerant and need minimal maintenance to ensure a clean and healthy appearance.

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Fg. 8.40Medians with tapered ends should be enhanced with special paving

c. Provideaminimum18-inchpavingstripattheperimeterofthemedianareaformaintenanceworkerstowalkonandtoprovideabufferbetweenplantmaterialsandtraffi lanes.

d. Avoid plants that are easily hedged. Avoid trimming plants into boxhedgesorgeometricshapes.Thismaintains theoriginal intentof theplantingdesignandavoidsahomogenouscharacter.

e. Select materials that have a strong color contrast with the drivinglanes.Integralcolorinthemedianscanhelpminimizethemaintenanceassociatedwithstains,fading,anddirt.Warmearthtonesinthebrickredtoterracottarangeprovideanexcellentcontrasttoblackasphalt.Thesecolorsarecommoninclayandconcretepavingunits.Avoidpaversinthegrayrangewithblueorviolettones.

f. Intersection design should incorporate amedianwidthno lessthanfourfeetwhencombinedwitha left-turn lane.Minimally,this leaves sufficien room for pedestrianrefugeislandanddirectionalsigns.

g. Consistentmediantreatmentshelpcreatean identity that unites the Urban Corethrough the use of paving, directionalsigns, architectural features, and plantmaterials.

h. Medianswithturninglanesortaperedendsshouldbeenhancedwithspecialpaving.

3. Sidewalk LandscapingSidewalkareaplanting in theUrban Core SpecificPlanarea should includeplanter pots, landscaped planters/parkways, raised planters on selectedstreets,plazalandscaping,andparkinglotscreeningandshading.Inaneffortto construct public right-of-way improvements that achieve a cohesiveappearance and maintain an urban atmosphere, joint participation betweenprivatepropertyownersandtheCitywillberequired.SomeofthebeautificatioeffortscanbeimplementedbytheCityasfundingissecured.Cooperationandparticipation by individual property owners, merchants, special interestgroups, and others will be required with future property development. ThismaybeanopportunityforentitiessuchasaBusinessImprovementDistrictoraMainStreetOrganizationtofacilitatepublic/privatecooperation. Followingaregeneralguidelinesforsidewalklandscapetreatment.

a. Theuseofaccentplantswithspecialqualities(e.g.springfl wersand/orgoodfallcolor)shouldbeusedtoaccententrydrivesandintersectionstounifytheUrbanCoreandidentifyitasaplaceofspecialdestination.

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Fg. 8.4�Raised planters with seating help buffer pedestrians from vehicles

b. Selected streets in theSpecificPlanarea should include landscaped planters/parkways between the sidewalk and street. Streets such as Broadway, H Street, and E Street should have raised planters in the furnishing zone with seating incorporated. This will help buffer the pedestriantrafficfromvehiculartraffic.

c. Choose species that are hardy and not easily affected by varyingtemperatures,wind,watersupply,orhandling.Nearpedestriantrafficit is important to anticipate some amount of damage to plants andirrigation,andtougherplantmaterialswillhelptomaintainanattractivestreetscapeappearance.

d. Choose ornamental and interestingspecies for highly visible areas suchas near seating areas, gateways andintersections(refertoKeyIntersectionssectionofthisChapter).Useplantswithcontrasting foliage, color, and texture,scentedvarieties,orthosethathaveanespeciallyinterestingbloom.

e. Be aware of necessary sight distance lines for passing traffic and safety issues. At crosswalks and driveways, keepplantmaterialbelow18inchesfor pedestrianvisibility.

f. Choose species that are drought tolerant and need minimal maintenance and tend to look good all year to ensure a clean and healthy appearance.

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Fg. 8.42Sidewalks should have unobstructed “through pedestrian zones”

H. Sidewalks and Pedestrian Improvements

1. SidewalksSidewalks are the key component of the Urban Core pedestrian circulationnetwork. Sidewalks provide pedestrian access to virtually every activity, andprovide critical connections between other modes of travel, including theautomobile, public transit, and bicycles. The pedestrian experience plays avery importantpart inthefunctionalityandtheeconomichealthofanurbanenvironment. Wide sidewalks, street trees and landscaping, and consistentstreetfurnishingsallcontributetoadesirablepedestrianstreetscene.Followingaregeneralguidelinesforsidewalkandpedestriantreatments.

a. Designfeaturessuchasenhancedpavingonwalkways,trellisesorotherdecorative structures, landscaping, and low level decorative lightingshouldbeusedtodistinguishthepedestrianroutefromthevehicularroute.

b. On-streetparallelordiagonalparking,raisedplanters,andlandscapedsidewalkplantingstripsshouldbeusedtodefin thesidewalkedgeandprovideabufferbetweenpedestriansandmovingvehicles.

c. Newspaperracksshouldbeclusteredingroupsofdispenserstominimizea cluttered sidewalk appearance. Permanent decorative newspaperenclosures to house these racks will also help minimize a clutteredappearance.

d. Sidewalksshouldhavea“throughpedestrianzone” that iskeptclearofany fixture and/orobstructions.Aminimumof four feet,although

preferably eight feet, should be reserved toallowfortwopeopletowalkcomfortablysideby side in accordance with the AmericanDisabilitiesAct(ADA)requirements.

e. Sidewalk surface should be stable, firmsmooth,andslip-resistant.

f. Plantingareas,bike racks,street lighting,transit furnishings, newspaper racks, andotherstreetfurnitureshouldbecontainedinthefurnishingszonelocatedbetweenthesidewalksandstreettokeepthe“throughpedestrianzone”freeforwalking.

g. Where appropriate, seating and outdoordiningopportunitiescanbeaccommodatedinstreetsetbackareasintheareabetweenthethroughpedestrianzoneandthefaceof adjacent retail buildings, i.e. browsingzone.

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Fg. 8.43Incorporate accent paving in crosswalks at key intersections

Fg. 8.44Speed tables slow traffic and enhance the pedestrian experience

Fg. 8.45“Bulb-outs” or “curb extensions” increase visibility of crosswalks

2. CrosswalksPedestrian crossings are critical componentsof the pedestrian mobility in the Urban Core.On high volume streets such as Broadway, HStreet and portions of E Street and F Street,pedestrian crossings should be located atsignalized intersections. Mid-block crossingswith speed tables are proposed along lowervolumeandslowerspeedstreetssuchasThirdAvenue to further enhance the pedestrianexperience.

Incorporate accent paving and/or “tabletop”crossingsatkeyintersections.Keyintersectionsinclude:

• BroadwayatGStreet,HStreet,EStreet,andFStreet

• H Street at I-5, Woodlawn Avenue,FourthAvenue,FifthAvenueandThirdAvenue

• ThirdatEStreet,FStreet,GStreet,HStreetandIStreet

• Other crossings that may needto facilitate and announce heavypedestriantraffic

Followingaregeneralguidelinesforcrosswalktreatment.

a. Crosswalksshouldbeaminimumofsixfeetinwidth.Widercrosswalksshouldbeconsideredinareasofhighpedestrianvolumes.

b. Crossingdistancesshouldbeminimizedtothegreatestextentpossible.Uninterrupted pedestrian crossings without a central refuge islandshouldbelimitedtomaximum50feet.

c. Extensions of the sidewalk into theroadway at crosswalks are called“bulb-outs” or “curb extensions” andare designed to give pedestriansgreater visibility as they approachthe crossing. Bulb-outs decrease thedistance users must cross as well asslow traffic Sidewalkbulb-outsshouldbeusedwherefeasibleconsideringtherequirements of traffi volumes andspecifi stormdrainageconditions.

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Fg. 8.46Refuge islands create a protected area in the middle of the street

d. Turningradiusofcornersatintersectionsshouldbereducedinorderto minimizethecrossingdistanceofpedestriansandhelpslowtraffic,The presenceofbuses,trucks,andotherlargevehiclesmustbeconsidered indesigningturningradii.

e. Pedestriancrosswalksshouldbeadequatelylit,haveclearsightdistances,andbefreefrom view-hindering obstructions such asfoliageandpolesatcrosswalkentriesandmedianrefugeislands.

f. In-pavement flashes in conjunction with sign mounted flashes should beconsidered at mid-block crossing areassuch as the Third Avenue mid-blockcrossing.

g. Countdown pedestrian walk-signals should be employed where high pedestrianandtraffic volumesoccursatpedestriancrossings.

3. Refuge IslandsRefuge islandsareextensionsofthemedianthatcreateaprotectedarea inthemiddleof thestreet. Followingaregeneraldesignguidelines for refugeislands.

a. Minimally,pedestrianrefugeareasshouldbefourfeetinwidthtoreduce the possibility of island users, particularly those in wheelchairs

propelled byattendants,fromprojectingintothetrafficlanes.Thewidth

of a refuge

island walkway should not be less than width of thecrosswalk.b. The median be extended a short distance beyond the edge of thecrosswalk inordertoensurethatturningvehiclesdonotencroachonthemedianpedestrianrefugearea.

c. Refugeareasshouldbelevelwiththecrosswalkandhaveanaccentedpavingsurfacedifferentincolorandtexturetosurroundingsurfaces.

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Fg. 8.48Typical Third Avenue Village pedestrian light

Fg. 8.47Typical Urban Core pedestrian light

I. Lighting Concepts

1. Lighting StyleTwo lighting styles have been selected for the Urban Core Specific Plan area. One is a more traditional style while the other is more contemporary. To reinforce the urban core and marine environment image, the more contemporary lighting style is to be used in all districts except the Third Avenue Village area. The Village area lends itself to a style of lighting that will complement older structures as well as new architecture with an Art Deco/Art Moderne style.

2. Lighting GuidelinesStreet lighting plays both an aesthetic andsafety role in urban areas. The guidelinesencouragelightingthat:

• contributestothesafeandefficientuse ofUrbanCorestreets,

• enhancessecurity,

• helpsunifytheSpecific Planarea,

• avoids casting glare onto adjacentstreetsinsuchamannerastodecreasethesafetyofvehicularmovement,

• enhances and encourage eveningactivities,and

• uses full or partial cut-off lightingfixture tominimize lightpollutionandaddresses“darkskies”goals.

Following are general guidelines forstreetlightingintheSpecific Planarea.

a. Pedestrian street lighting should be providedalongsidewalksandpedestrian pathways in addition to the existing taller street lights, particularly in areas where street beautification and higher pedestrianuseisdesired,suchasThird Avenue, H Street, Broadway, E Street and F Street. (Third Avenue currently hasdecorativestreetlights.)

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b. Additional pedestrian-scaled street lights should be provided at busstops,inadditiontotheexistingtallerstreetlights,toprovideadditionalsecurityfortransitusers.

c. Adual-levellightingsystemshouldbeprovided.Onelevelwillfunctionduring normal operating hours and another one will project reducedintensitylightlevelsthroughoutlate(1:00PM–daylight)non-operationalhours,forsecuritypurposes.

d. Thestyleof lighting inapublicparking lotshouldrelatetotheoverallarchitectural design of the surrounding commercial uses, should notexceed25feetinheight,andshouldminimizeglareintothenightskyandadjacentareas.

e. Accentlightingandup-lightingonarchitecturalandlandscapefeaturesshouldbeincludedtoaddinterestandfocalpoints.

f. Electricalserviceforseasonal/event lighting inallstreet lightsshouldbeprovided.

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Fg. 8.49This Art Deco theme kiosk provides City information

J. Street Furnishings

Street furnishings serve an aesthetic as well as utilitarian function and canenliven and provide variety to outdoor spaces used for public interaction.Street furniture includesall itemsplacedwithin thepublic right-of-way,suchasbenches,busshelters,trashreceptacles,plantcontainers,treegratesandguards,bicycleracks,bollards,kiosks,newspaperracks,andfountains.Properdesignandplacementofsuchamenitieswill reinforceaunifie UrbanCoredesignthemeandcreatealivelyandfestiveatmosphere.Whereabenchand/orotherstreetfurnishingissponsoredbyagroupordonatedbyanindividual,asmallplaquemaybeattachedtotheseatingtomemorializethatdonationor sponsorship. Following are guidelines that should be considered whenselectingandlocatingtheseamenities.

1. General Guidelinesa. The design and selection of street

furnitureshouldincludeconsiderations for the security, safety, comfort, and convenience of the user. Prior to final selectionofstreet furniture, thePublic Works Department should review choices for durability of materials and easeofmaintenanceafterinstallation.

b. Street furniture should be located along street edge of sidewalk in the furnishings zone and maintain a clear width sufficient to accommodate pedestrianflows.

c. Tocreateamoreorganizedandefficienuse of sidewalk space, furnishingsshouldbegroupedtogetherratherthanscattered. Trash and recycling cansshould be located near benches. Agreaternumberandtypeoffurnishingsshould be located in higher-usepedestriantraffi areas.

d. Items should be securely anchored to the sidewalk, and a graffiti-resitant

coating should be applied to streetfurnitureelementstoensureagoodlonger-termappearance.

e. Provisions to accommodate persons with disabilities should beincorporatedintothedesignandlocationoffurnishings.Thisincludesaprovisionforspaceadjacenttowalkwaysforwheelchairand/orstrollerparking.

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Fg. 8.50Example Third Avenue Village area bench

Fg. 8.5�Example Urban Core bench

Fg. 8.52Example Urban Core tree grate

2. Benches and Trash ReceptaclesTwodifferentstyleshavebeenselectedforthebenchestobeconsistentwiththelightingstylesselected.Aswiththelighting,oneisatraditionalstyleandoneismorecontemporary.

A 6 foot bench, as well as trash and recycling receptacles, should be placed approximately every 100 feet on Third Avenue and approximately every 200 feet on H Street, Broadway, E Street, F Street, and other Urban Core streets and should be clustered at transit stops. Where public trash receptacles need replacing, they should be replaced with furnishings identified in this plan.

3. Tree GratesTheuseoftreegratesisrequiredwherestreettreesareproposedtobelocatedinthesidewalkarea. Tree grates should have a minimumwidthof6feet.Treegratesprovidemoreareafor pedestrians on the sidewalk whilereinforcing the desired urban character. Treegrates for the Urban Core must comply withAmericanDisabilityAct(ADA)regulations.

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Fg. 8.53Example Urban Core bike rack

Fg. 8.54Example Urban Core bus shelter

Fg. 8.55Newspaper racks should be carefully located throughout the Urban Core

4. Bike RacksBike racks should be located near transit stops, throughout commercial areas, event areas, parking lots, and employment centers as well as incorporated in the site design of private projects. Well placed and secure bike racks will encourage bicycle ridership and provide an attractive alternative to locking bicycles to trees and light poles. Along Urban Core streets bike racks are required at key locations on every block. The “U” shape style rack works well in an urban setting because it allows bikes to be parked parallel to the sidewalk, which keeps them out of the pedestrian zone of the sidewalk. It also is a preferred design by cyclists due to its functionality and ease of use.

5. Bus SheltersBus shelters and transit stops are a criticalelementforChulaVista’sUrbanCorecirculationneeds and are key facilities to transportingpeople to and around the downtown areaand the Bayfront. Bus shelters should beconvenientlylocatednearparkingareas,transitfocusareas,shoppingareas,eventareas,andpublic facilities through coordination with theCity Transit Manager. Because bus sheltersand stops are located throughout the UrbanCore,theyneedtohaveaunifying,cleananduncluttered appearance. Transit stops shouldprovide benches and lighting for the comfortofpassengerswaiting for their transitvehicleandshould take theneedsofdisabledusersinto consideration. Bus shelters should bedesigned to be consistent with the designtheme of the area in which the shelters areplaced,i.e.Villageareavs.UrbanCorearea.

6. Newspaper RacksNewspaper racks should be designed tohouse multiple publications in one screenedenclosure. Enclosures should be screenedfromviewonvehiclesidesandshouldopentothesidewalk. Enclosuresshouldbecarefullylocatedinthe“furnishings”zone.

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Fg. 8.57Bollards help to delineate the vehicular and pedestrian zones

Fg. 8.58Banners help to unify an area

Fg. 8.56A typical contemporary theme kiosk appropriate for key plaza location

7. Additional Street FurnishingsDrinkingfountains,bollards,kiosks,andotherstreet furnishings should also be carefullylocated throughout the Urban Core. Waist-highsafetybollardsshouldbeused todefinselected sidewalk extensions, public plazasand paseos. Properly placed, bollards helpto delineate between vehicle and pedestrianzones creating a safe walking environment.Kiosks should be located at key locationsbetween parking and shopping areas, atselectedplazas,andpaseoentries.Kioskscaneffectivelydisplayinformationanddirectionstovisitorsforrestrooms,plazas,shoppingareas,parking, and other public facilities and canfacilitate inmovingpeoplethrough theUrbanCorefromonedistricttoanother.Otherstreetfurniture (banners, telephone boxes, andinformationaldisplays)shouldbeincorporatedintostreetscape improvementsatappropriatelocations. Precise locations should bedeterminedthroughtheimplementationofthisSpecific Planandreviewofpublicimprovementdesign plans. Some of theenvisioned publicimprovements will requireprivate propertyownerparticipationand/orcooperationatthetime of projectdevelopment. Others may beimplementedbytheCityasfundingissecuredandprogrammedasapartofthecommunitybenefit program.

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Fg. 8.59Example intersection

Accessramps

Highlyvisible,decorativeCrosswalks

RoundedcurbReturn

Sidewalkwithaccentpaving

Streettrees

K. Key Intersections

Due to their high visibility and substantial vehicular and pedestrianinteraction, key intersectionsplaya vital role inbeautification of theUrbanCore. Intersections have the highest potential for impacting visitors due totheir frequentuseand roleofstoppingbothvehicularandpedestrian trafficTherefore, these key intersections provide an opportunity for visuallyenhancing the street with accent paving and creating pedestrian-friendlycrossings. In addition, improvements to intersections intended to enhancetrafficflowaredescribedinChapterV-Mobility.

Improvements should consist of accent paving, additional landscaping, atcorners,directionalsignswhereappropriate,sidewalkextensions,andselectedurbanstreetfurnishingsconsistentwithdistrictguidelines.

The following key intersections within the Specific Plan area warrantimprovements:

• ThirdAvenueand:D,E,F,G,H,I,J,K,andLStreets

• HStreetand: I-5,WoodlawnAvenue,Broadway,FifthAvenue,FourthAvenue,andThirdAvenue

• Broadwayand:D,E,F,G,H,I,J,K,andLStreets

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L. Gateways and Wayfinding

Astronggatewayandwayfindingprogramisoneofthefastestwaystomakean immediate impactand“brand”anurbanarea. A logoandsignsprogramshouldbeestablishedtohelpdistinguishtheUrbanCorefromotherareasoftown.Thelogoshouldbeplacedongateways,signs,andbannerstodevelopbothasenseofplaceandanidentityfortheUrbanCore.

1. GatewaysGatewayswillbeinstrumentalinprovidingasenseofarrivalandtransitionintoChulaVista’sUrbanCore.ThesevisualgatewayfeaturesarecivicinemphasisandservetoidentifyandpromotethedistinctidentityoftheUrbanCore.

In addition to serving as entryways, gateways are important places fordirectionalandinformationalsignstoguidemotoriststotheirdestinations.Thevisualdesignofgatewaysshouldbeattractiveaswellasfunctional,conveyingaceremonial sense of entry that reflect the traditional importance of adowntownand conveys theunique identity of theUrbanCoreSpecificPlanarea.Physical elements of the entry, including medians, signs, archways, pavingmaterials, and landscape planting materials, should function together tophysicallydefin theentryandestablishapositivefi stimpressionoftheVillageandUrbanCore.Increasedlandscapingatgatewayswillhelpemphasizethatone is entering a special place. Both primary and secondary gatewayelementsareenvisionedfortheSpecificPlanarea.

Aseriesofprimaryentrancefeatures/gatewaysshouldbelocatedat:

• I-5/HStreet

• I-5/EStreet

• FourthAvenue/CStreet

• ThirdAvenue/EStreet

Theprimaryentriesare locatedat significan entrancepointsalong the I-5corridorandat theentrance into theVillage. Thedesignof thesegatewayscallsforagrandscale,moredesignimagery,bolddisplayoftheCitylogo,andtextdescribingdirectionstokeylocationswithintheSpecificPlanarea.

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Fg. 8.60Primary and Secondary Gateways Map

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Fg. 8.6�Kites represent the pacific flyway theme

Aseriesofsecondaryentrancefeatures/gatewaysshouldbelocatedat:

• HStreet/ThirdAvenue

• I-5/FStreet

These secondary entrances are to be smaller in scale, more simple in design, and incur less of a visual impact, as these areas are located adjacent to residential neighborhoods. Care should be taken during the design process to ensure that the H Street and Third Avenue entrance feature does not interfere with the existing Third Avenue Village archway.

2. Gateway Design GuidelinesThefollowingguidelinesaretobeusedindevelopingtheexactdesignsforboththeprimaryandsecondaryentrancefeatures.Designelementsandmaterialsshouldbeconsistentalthoughnotnecessarilyexactindesignandtreatment.TheseguidelinesweredevelopedinconjunctionwiththeUrbanCoreAdvisoryCommittee and community representatives during the Specific Planpreparationprocess:

a. Urban Core Gateways

1) Gatewaysandentrywayareasshouldassistandenhancethevisitors’experience when entering into the Urban Core area. These featuresserveaslandmarksandshouldbeofqualitydesignandmaterials.

2) UsesimilartreatmentalongI-5gatewaysandprovideauniquetieinandtransitiontotheBayfrontarea.

3) Incorporate the pacific flyway theme representing birds, flight wings, kites, aviation.

4) ExploreChulaVista’searlyCaliforniaranchand lemon groves/citrus history in thedesigntheme.

5) IncorporatetheCitylogo.

6) Design for extended durability, lowmaintenance, and resistance tovandalism.

7) Gateways can provide an opportunity forarchitecturalfeatures,monuments,publicart,banners,signs,andlightingfeatures.

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Fg. 8.62Historic citrus crate logo

Fg. 8.64City of Chula Vista logo

Fg. 8.63Existing Third Avenue archway

8) The design should incorporate appropriate streetscape designelements,suchasspecialpaving,decorativelighting,andlandscaping,asrecommendedfortheDistrictinwhicheachgatewayislocated.

9) Incorporatepublicartandlocalartisticexpression.

10) Thedesignofentryandway-findin featuresshouldbeunique to theUrbanCorearea.

11) Coloranddesignshouldtie intofuturemarketingmaterials,banners,etc.

12) The words “Chula Vista” should be the largest font anddominantwordonthegatewaymonument.

b. Third Avenue and E Street Gateway

1) Establishanindividual/differentthemeforThirdAvenue.

2) IncorporatesomeArtDeco/ArtModerneinfluences

3) Tie in with existing Village brandingefforts.

4) Thegatewaymonumentdesignshouldexemplify a traditional downtownarchway to complement the existingarchway locatedatGStreetandThirdAvenue.

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Fg. 8.65Example of a wayfinding sign

3. Wayfinding SignsOf key importance in the Urban Core is a clear and attractive wayfindingsystem to provide direction to important services and destinations such aspublic parking, the civic center, library, performance venues, parks, andtransportation facilities. Following are guidelines for the development of awayfindinprogramfor both the Third Avenue Village area and the Urban Core

area.

a. Thesignprogramshouldincludeacommondirectionalsignwitharrowsandlabelingtodenotethelocationsofkeyshoppingareas,publicparking,civicbuildings,and touristattractions.

b. Wayfinding signs should be oriented to vehicular traffic Selected signs should be lighted, landscaped, and placed permanently at roadsides or within mediansatkeylocationsaroundtheUrban Core.Thesesignsshouldbesmaller than theCitygatewaysbutsimilarinstyle.

c. Thewayfinding signs should reflecdesign materialsandcomponentsofthegateways andstreetsignstoprovideconsistencyand unity.

4. Street SignsStreetsignsareoneof thebestopportunities toprovideaunifyingelementintheurbanenvironment.Inthelong-term,considerationshouldbegiventodevelopingauniquestreetsignprogramfortheurbancoreconsistentwithCitystreetsignpolicy.Streetsignsshouldexhibitthefollowing:

• acoloruniquetotheparticulardistrict,

• afontselectionconsistentwithdesiredcharacterofeacharea,

• alogo;thismaysimplybetheawordsuchas“DowntownChulaVista”or“TheVillage”inthesamefontasthegatewaysigns,and

• designcomponents thatare reflecti eof thegatewayanddirectionalsigns.

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Fg. 8.66Example of Third Avenue Village street banner

Fg. 8.67Example of a street banner

5. Street BannersBanners or flags for use on area light standards should be included in the wayfinding program. Cross street banners may be appropriate in the Village area. Banners with appropriate logo and graphic representing a community-wide special event or festival should be developed. Banners may be changed periodically to provide advertisement for special events and promotions, consistent with CVMC 19.60.050 and CVMC 19.60.500(C).

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M. Public Art

Display of public art is an important way of expressing the personality andcharacterofacommunity.AnartsprogramtoengagelocalartistsinrepresentingvariousaspectsoftheCitygreatlypersonalizescommunity.TheCityhasinitiatedanArtsMasterPlanwhichwillestablishguidelinesfordesignandplacementofartinChulaVista.Thepublicartsprogramshouldprovidevariousmethodstoincorporatearteitherasstandaloneindividualpiecesorincorporatedintothedesignofotherurbanimprovementssuchasgatewaysandentrymonuments,paving,benches,andstreet lights. Incorporationofpublicart isan intriguingwaytoenhancethepedestrianenvironmentofsidewalks,plazas,paseos,orotherpedestrianspaces.Locationsforpublicartpiecesaresuggestedatmostpublicspacessuchasstreets,plazasoralongpedestrianpassageways.

1. Publicartcanbeusedinavarietyoflocations.Itcanbecreatedinsmallelementssuchastilebandingonastairriser,orlargerpiecessuchasinterpretivesculpturesandfunctionalart.

2. Itcanbeaninteractivemedia,suchasvideoprojectionsoraclimbingstructure,orcanincluderandomlytimedwaterfeatures.

3. Publicartcanbeusedasawayfindingfeaturetoattractpedestriansto keylocationslikeaplazaorpaseoordevelopedasmuralsrepresenting theareasuniquehistoryandculture.

4. Art can be in the form of decorative tiles integrated into paving onbenches,walls,stairs,andentries.

5. Seatingareasandsignsarealsoopportunitiesforpublicart.

6. Publicartcanbeintegratedintootherfeatureslikefountainsorwaterelements.

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Fg. 8.68Examples of public art

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N. Parks, Plazas, Paseos, and Public Spaces

Perhaps one of the most important improvements that can be made to the Urban Core is the addition of urban “green” spaces in the form of parks, plazas, paseos and informal pedestrian spaces. These improvements include improving and expanding existing park space to make the spaces more usable. As the Urban Core adds new residents and businesses, opportunity for convenient urban recreation in various forms must be provided. The following section describes the urban gathering space network that is proposed by the Urban Core Specific Plan. It includes a system of parks and other gathering spaces that are located in proximity to existing and new residential areas and are inter connected through both a pedestrian and bicycle system. (See Figure 8.69. Parks, Plazas, Paseos, and Public Spaces.)

The City of Chula Vista is currently preparing an update to the Parks andRecreation Needs Assessment (PRNA). The information gathered from theupdated PRNA will be used in the upcoming “Parks and Recreation MasterPlanUpdateandtheWesternChulaVistaParksImplementationPlan,andwillinclude:

• inventoryexistingparkspace,

• assesstheneedsforupgradingexistingandaddingnewfacilities

• determinetheneedforadditionalspace

• evaluatetheoptionallocationsfornewfacilities,

• prepareconceptualdesignsforallfacilities,and

• research the opportunities for joint use of existing school sites asneighborhoodparks.

ThisparkplanningstudyandanalysiswillusetheWesternChulaVistaPublicFacilities Assessment prepared in January of 2005 by Economic ResearchAssociatesasabaselinestudy.

Throughout the Specific Plan area, plazas of a variety of sizes should beincorporated to accommodate different types of activities. These publicgatheringspacesshouldservetoestablishasenseofplaceandidentityandprovidespaceforprivateoutdoordining,events,andstreetsideentertainment.Well-designed public space in the form of both parks and plazas shouldprovideongoingopportunities forhumanactivities thatcreatean interactiveenvironment,buildasenseofcommunity,andcreateopportunitiesforevents,entertainment, and gatherings. Public parks and plazas in the Urban Coreshouldadheretothefollowingguidelines.

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Fg. 8.69Parks, Plazas, Paseos, and Public Spaces Map

VIII-59

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Fg. 8.70Park promenade

1. Parksa. Guidelines

1) All park space shall contain elements that provide green areas forrelaxation,picnics,informalfiel space,andareasforfamilygatheringswithampleshadetreesand landscaping.Wherespacepermitsmoreformal play structures, fountains, covered seating, and other activefacilities may be designed. Parks should also include formal andinformalhardscapeareasforgatheringandcourtspaces.

2) All parks shall be designed to support Crime Prevention throughEnvironmentalDesign(CPTED)principles.

3) All parks shall be designed to minimize water use and support Citysustainabilitygoals.

4) Newparksshouldbe locatedwithincloseproximitytoallexistingandnewresidentialneighborhoods.

5) Existing parksshallbeevaluatedand upgraded asappropriate toenhance usabilityand provide safeplay equipmentfor children of allages.

6) The UrbanCore park systemshould includepocket parks andn e i g h b o r h o o dpark space distributed evenly through all districts.

b. Recommended Park Facilities

Thefollowingarespecific parkfacilitiesthatshouldbedevelopedintheSpecifi Planarea.

1) One park of approximately 12-15 acres, or several parks with anaggregated total of approximately 12-15 acres, should be providedwestofBroadwaybetweenHStreetandEStreet. Thisfacilityshould

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Fg. 8.7�Community Park

Fg. 8.72Plaza

include formal areas for sports, informal multi-use field space, picnic areas, children’s play equipment, walking trails and paths, a fountain, plazas, benches, shade trees, ornamental landscaped areas, (i.e. a rose garden, community garden, restroom facility, park office and storage, and urban features such as a pond or other water feature).Program elements are to be determined by the proposed Park Master Plan update process.

2) Acommunityparkbetween15-20acresshould be provided in the NorthwestPlanning Area in the area of “LowerSweetwater”. This community park isintended to serve the residents of theurbancore.Thisfacilityshouldincludeallelements identifie intheproposedParks and Recreation Master Planupdate.

3) ExistingCityparksshouldbeevaluatedtoassessoptimumuseofthefacilities.Potentialfutureparkcomponentswill be identified in the proposedParksandRecreationMasterPlan update.

4) MemorialParkshouldbeexpandedbybetween3-5acresandupgraded suchthattheparkismademoreusableandattractivetoarearesidents. AsmallplazaalongtheThirdAvenuefrontageshouldbeconsideredin theredesign.Connectionsandrelationshiptotheexpandedciviccenter shouldalsobeconsidered.Potentialfutureparkcomponentswouldbe identifiedintheproposedParksandRecreationMasterPlanupdate.

2. Plazasa. Guidelines

1) Plaza spaces should be designedwith fl xibility for physical use and bedesigned to accommodate a rangeof desired activities such as outdoorseating, entertainment (bandstands),and festivals. These spaces shouldcontributetorealandperceivedpublicsafety. Theplaza spaces should beaminimumof5,000square feet insizeand may be as large as one acre insize.

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Fg. 8.74H Street Plaza

Fg. 8.73Retail plaza

2) Publicspace lightingshould be low in height with a maximumheightof16feet. Lighting in plazas should average 2 foot candles andincorporate pedestrian oriented lights, such as light bollards, pole lights, and wall-mounted lights. Uplightingoftreesandother site features or elements is alsoencouraged.

3) Plazas should have an articulated edge (buildings, benches, and landscaping) where feasible todefine the plaza and create comfortable space.

4) Plazaedgeswhichopentopedestrianthrough-trafficshouldbedefined without impeding traffic flow, with a planter or low seating wall, apergola withvines,awaterfeature,orasculpture.

5) Providepedestrianamenitieslikeseating,decorativelighting,planters,fountains,drinkingfountains,distinctivepaving,decorativetiles,publicart,landscaping,andbicycleracks.Theyshouldalsoincorporatefocalpointssuchasarchitecturalstructures,sculpturesandinteractivewaterfeatures,andcommunityfountains.

6) Coveredareasalong theperimeterofplazas,suchasavine-coveredpergola, are strongly encouraged to provide protection from the

elements.

7) Soft landscaping and shade trees as well as hard surfaced areas should be incorporated into the overall plaza design. Color, form, and texture are an integral part of the design of these public spaces.

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b. Recommended Plaza Locations

The following are generalized vicinities of plaza locations that shouldbedevelopedintheSpecific Planarea.

1) ThesouthwestcornerofThirdAvenueandFStreet.

2) AdjacenttotheThirdAvenuestreetfrontageatexistingMemorialPark.

3) The southwest corner of Third Avenue and H Street adjacent to theCountyCourthouse(enhanceuseofexistingurbanplaza).

4) ThesouthsideofHStreetacrossfromScrippsHospital.

5) TheintersectionofHStreetandFifthAvenue.

6) ThesoutheastcornerofHStreetandBroadway.

7) ThesouthsideofHStreetattheintersectionofWoodlawnAvenue.

8) ThewestsideofBroadwaybetweenEStreetandHStreet.

9) TheovercrossingsofI-5atEStreet,FStreet,andHStreet.TheplazaattheFStreetovercrossingshouldbemoreextensivethanplazasattheEStreetandHStreetovercrossings,asFStreetprovidesasignificanconnectiontotheBayfrontforpedestriansandbicyclists.

10) Thethreetransitfocusareas:onHStreetbetweenThirdAvenueandFourthAvenue;HStreetTrolley:EStreetTrolley.

ItshouldbenotedthattwoadditionalurbanplazasarecurrentlylocatedwithintheCivicCentercomplex,atCityHallandthePoliceHeadquarters.

c. Plaza Corridor

Aspecial“PlazaCorridor” isdesignatedalongThirdAvenueand isuniquetotheUrbanCore.AcontinuouslywidesidewalkcharacterizesthePlazaCorridorwithenhancedamenitiestolandscaping,lighting,signage,andart.Detailsofimprovements to thePlazaCorridorwillbe further refine through theThirdAvenue Streetscape Master Plan and is a priority implementation projectfollowingadoptionoftheSpecificPlan.

3. Paseosa. Guidelines

1) Paseosshouldprovidelinkagesbetweenpublicparkingandthestreetenvironment,linkagesbetweenresidentialprojectsandadjacentstreetsandplazas/parksandshouldbedesignedwithconsiderationfor“saferoutestoschool”forarearesidents.

2) Providepedestrianamenitieslikeseating,decorativelighting,planters,fountains,drinkingfountains,distinctivepaving,decorativetiles,public

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Fg. 8.76Paseo

Fg. 8.75Paseo

art, landscaping, and bicycle racks. Theyshould also incorporate focal points suchasarchitecturalstructures,sculpturesandinteractivewaterfeatures.

3) Paseos should be well lit and includedirectionalsigns.

4) Paseosshouldbeaminimumofeightfeetwide, with a variety of widths to providespacesfor landscaping,benches,outdoordining,focalpoints,andwaterfeatures,asdescribedabove.

5) Paseosshouldbeincorporatedintoprivateprojectsinordertoprovidepedestrianconnectionsandspacebetween:

• residentialprojectsandadjoiningretailstreets,i.e.ThirdAvenueandHStreet,BroadwayandHStreet;

• public parking facilities and adjoining residential projects, retailstreets,andpublicbuildings;and

• parksandadjoiningresidentialneighborhoods.

6) Thedesignofabuildingshouldnotpresentablankfacetothepaseobutshouldbeasarchitecturallydetailedasthefrontofthebuilding.

b. Recommended Paseo Locations

ThefollowingaregenerallocationswherepublicpaseosshouldbeconsideredasredevelopmentoccursintheSpecific Planarea.

1) AlongThirdAvenuebetweenEStreetandH Street,connectingthestreetscapeofThird Avenue with public parking, residential, andofficeprojectstotheeastandwest.

2) AlongWoodlawnAvenuebetweenEStreetand H Street, connecting residentialneighborhoods to the east and west toWoodlawnAvenue.

3) Along Broadway, connecting residentialneighborhoodstotheeastandwesttothetransitfocusareasandtothecommercialservicecorridor.

4) Along H Street, connecting the streetscape of H Street to adjoiningoffice retail,andresidentialareastothenorthandsouth.