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Item 6 - Draft 1709 and 1938 Corridor Plan / DRAFT F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 Corridor Plan Ordinance No. 1012 August 12, 2011 / Abstract The F.M. 1709 Corridor and F.M. 1938 Corridor Plan is the fifth of six sector plans adopted during the Southlake 2030 process. The plan encompasses approximately 750 acres that are adjacent to two of the three major roadway corridors in Southlake – the F.M. 1709 Corridor and the F.M. 1938 Corridor. The most prominent land uses include commercial activities and residential uses; although a significant portion of the plan area is classified as vacant or underdeveloped. As such, the primary objectives for planning in the F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 corridors are maintaining high development and urban design standards, buffering residential uses from the roadway corridors and commercial uses, and ensuring continued quality growth. The Plan further addresses the unique characteristics and challenges of these roadway corridors and provides specific planning recommendations in regard to land use, mobility, environmental resources, as well as parks, recreation and open space. Sector Planning and Land Use Planning Introduction The City of Southlake’s Land Use Plan serves as the community’s vision for future development by allocating the appropriate location, concentration and intensity of future development by land use categories. The plan serves as a guide to all decision making as it pertains to the City’s future development. The City of Southlake approaches land use planning through sector planning, a method which divides the City into sectors to identify development issues and to develop recommendations for each individual area. This approach recognizes that planning issues are numerous and complex, and may vary from area to area or even site to site. In short, the purpose of a sector plan is to: Establish a detailed background for the planning area, Identify current development constraints and issues, Identify features, resources and areas to be protected or improved, Explore development opportunities and List recommendations for the future development and conservation of the area. Sector planning was first implemented in Southlake during the development of the Southlake 2025 Plan in 2004. The City was originally divided into nine planning areas, although some areas were combined during the actual planning process. For the purposes of the 2030 Plan, the City has been divided into eight sectors: MAP 1: SOUTHLAKE 2030 PLANNING SECTORS / During discussion of the south sector and east sector issues, the Land Use Committee decided to combine the two sectors into one plan area called the southeast sector. The resulting plan document is the Southeast Sector Plan. Similarly, the 1709 corridor and 1938 corridor have been consolidated into one plan. Although recommendations may vary from area to area, all sector plans are intended to work together to support a desired direction for growth as outlined in the adopted Vision, Goals and Objectives of the Southlake 2030 Plan (Ordinance No. 960). As such, the land use recommendations from the sector plans are consolidated to create one cohesive document for the City as a whole and the result is the City’s Land Use Plan. Recommendations developed in the sector plans will also be incorporated into other plan elements, such as the Master Thoroughfare Plan and Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan, as appropriate. In addition, the sector plans will be utilized in setting priorities in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) planning process, updating current development ordinances and creating new planning related ordinances or programs as needed. Relationship to Southlake’s Strategic Management System Strategic planning is an ongoing process where resources, critical concerns, community priorities and citizen needs are combined to produce both a plan for the future and a measure for results. More specifically, Southlake’s Strategic Management System links the city’s day-to-day activities to a comprehensive long term strategy for public policy and management decisions. The Strategic Management System identifies Strategic Focus Areas and Objectives to guide effective and efficient resource allocation and provides benchmarks to assess performance. The Strategic Focus Areas and Objectives are driven by the City’s Citizen Survey and are outlined in the City’s Strategy Map (please see Appendix B). The Strategic Management System guided the development of the Southlake 2030 Plan Vision, Goals and Objectives (VGO), which define a desired direction for growth for the City. As such, all recommendations in the Southlake 2030 Plan are tied to at least one Strategic Focus Area from the Strategic Management System and at least one Objective from the Adopted Vision, Goals and Objectives. / Relationship to Vision North Texas Vision North Texas is a public, private, non-profit and academic partnership headed by the North Central Texas Council of Governments, the Urban Land Institute, and the University of Texas at Arlington. The partnership was created to serve as a forum for discussion, research, and action on issues related to the growth and development of North Central Texas. In addition, the partnership strives to increase public awareness about important regional land use issues and to build support for initiatives that create a successful and sustainable future for North Texas. Over the last few years, Vision North Texas has invited stakeholders from across the region to participate in a series of workshops to develop a vision for the region’s future as well as an action plan to achieve that vision. The result of these workshops is North Texas 2050, which describes the preferred future envisioned by Vision North Texas participants. The document also provides guiding principles to help decision-makers achieve the regional vision. The City of Southlake recognizes the importance of the regional vision and has worked to align the Southlake 2030 Plan with North Texas 2050. All Southlake 2030 recommendations are linked to at least one of the guiding principles (please see Appendix C). Additional information on North Texas 2050 and Vision North Texas is available at www.visionnorthtexas.org. Table of Contents Abstract i Land Use Planning and Sector Planning Introduction i Relationship to Southlake’s Strategic Management System iii Relationship to Vision North Texas iii Introduction to the Corridors 1 Character of the Corridors 2 Preliminary Analysis 2 Existing Land Use Distribution 3 Existing Zoning 4 Recent Development Changes 5 Planning Challenges and Issues 6 Land Use Recommendations 7 Mobility Recommendations 12 Corridor Roadways 12 Corridor Pathways 18 Recommendations 19 Env ironmental Resource Recommendations 24 Recommendations 25 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Recommendations 32 Appendix A: Adopted Southlake 2030 Plan Vision, Goals and Objectives Appendix B: City of Southlake Strategy Map Appendix C: Vision North Texas Guiding Principles 1.0 Introduction to the F.M. Corridors The FM 1709 Corridor generally includes properties fronting F.M. 1709 or non-residential developments with access onto FM 1709 between Players Circle and Carroll Avenue. The FM 1938 Corridor includes properties adjacent to Davis Boulevard as well as a few properties north of FM 1709 adjacent to Randol Mill Avenue. However, many of the recommendations in this plan encompass all properties adjacent to the entire length of FM 1709 and/or FM 1938 within Southlake’s city limits. The boundaries of the two corridor plan areas are simply provided to assist in focusing the land use discussion when considering smaller areas or individual properties. The boundaries of the two plan areas are shown in the following map. MAP 2: F.M. 1709 AND F.M. 1938 CORRIDOR BOUNDARIES / 1.1 Character of the Corridors The F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 Corridors are generally characterized by office and retail uses. Office uses are generally found immediately adjacent to F.M. 1709. Retail uses are primarily located near intersections. The largest concentration of retail and restaurant uses is found at the intersection of F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938. The Jellico Square shopping center is located at the northwest corner of this intersection and is anchored by Sprouts Farmers Market. This shopping center also includes an undeveloped pad site immediately adjacent to F.M. 1709. / /  Office Uses Along F.M. 1709 Jellico Square Shopping Center  On the southeast side of the intersection, Southlake Marketplace is anchored by Hobby Lobby. However, this shopping center has a second anchor lease space of approximately 60,000 square feet that is currently vacant. This space was formerly occupied by an Albertson’s grocery store. The F.M. 1938 Corridor south of F.M. 1709 has several industrial and auto-oriented service uses. In addition, there are several parcels in this corridor that are either undeveloped or have potential for redevelopment. 1.2 Preliminary Analysis To fully understand the development issues facing the F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 corridors, an analysis of existing conditions is critical. The following section offers an assessment of the existing land uses and zoning as well as a description of recent development changes in the corridors. 1.2.1 Existing Land Use Distribution The most prominent existing land use in the F.M. Corridors is “vacant/underdeveloped”, comprising approximately 204 acres or 27% of the land area. Properties with this classification generally have “AG” Agricultural District zoning and may see new development in the coming years. The next most common existing land use is “commercial”, which includes retail and office uses and accounts for nearly 23% of the land area or 171 acres. “Residential”, “parks & open space”, and “public/civic/religious” uses comprise the majority of the remaining land area. A small percentage (5.1%) of the land area in the F.M. Corridors has “industrial” existing land uses. TABLE 1: F.M. 1709 AND F.M. 1938 EXISTING LAND USES Existing Land Use Acres* Percentage  Residential 117 15.6%  Flood Plain 1 0.1%  Parks & Open Space 109 14.5%  Vacant / Underdeveloped 204 27.2%  Public / Civic / Religious 110 14.7%  Commercial 171 22.8%  Industrial 38 5.1%  *Exclusive of streets The map below illustrates existing conditions of the corridors. The classifications indicated on the map are based on the Land Based Classification Standards (LBCS) model developed by the American Planning Association. This model extends the notion of classifying land uses by refining traditional categories into multiple dimensions, such as activities, functions, building types, site development character, and ownership constraints. Each dimension has its own set of categories and subcategories. These multiple dimensions allow users to have precise control over land-use classifications. MAP 3: F.M. 1938 AND F.M. 1709 CORRIDOR EXISTING LAND USES / 1.2.2 Existing Zoning The existing zoning in the F.M. Corridors is primarily a mix of Site Plan District (S-P-1 and S-P-2), Local Retail Commercial District and General Commercial District (C-2 and C-3 respectively), Office District (O-1), and Agricultural District (AG) designations. There are also residential designations, including “RE” Residential Estate, “SF-1A” Single Family Residential District, “SF-20A” Single Family District, and “TZD” Transition Zoning District. Along South Davis Boulevard, there are also areas with “I-1” Light Industrial zoning. MAP 4: F.M. 1938 AND F.M. 1709 CORRIDOR ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS / 1.2.3 Recent Development Changes Placeholder – to be completed later MAP 5: RECENT (5 YEAR) DEVELOPMENT SINCE SOUTHLAKE 2025 ADOPTION 2.0 Planning Challenges and Issues Along with the adopted Vision, Goals and Objectives of the Southlake 2030 Plan, these challenges and issues serve as the basis for many of the recommendations outlined in the following chapters. Development of F.M. 1938 The development of F.M. 1938 from a 2-lane undivided cross section to a variable width, divided regional thoroughfare north of F.M. 1709 will change the character of the surrounding area from a rural appearance to a more urban appearance. In addition, the establishment of a new direct connection from F.M. 1709 to S.H. 114 will allow residents and visitors on the west side of Southlake to have faster, easier access to S.H. 114. Accordingly, completion of the roadway is expected to significantly increase traffic counts on F.M. 1938. Traffic counts are expected to decrease on the portion of Randol Mill Avenue that is not part of F.M. 1938 (north/east of the Randol Mill Avenue “bend”). One issue with this expansion is the naming convention of F.M. 1938 and the Randol Mill “bend”. Currently, there are inconsistencies in the local naming of F.M. 1938 which sometimes causes confusion. The roadway changes from Precinct Line in Westlake to Randol Mill Avenue and Davis Boulevard in Southlake. In addition, since F.M. 1938 will be straightened where the roadway currently bends, there will likely be issues on what to call the “straight” portion in Southlake and what to call the “bend” portion. Pedestrian Mobility and Safety Along F.M. 1709, nearly all missing sidewalk segments will be constructed in the near future as part of the deceleration lane construction project or as part of a separate sidewalk project funded with assistance from the Statewide Transportation Enhancement Program (STEP). STEP is a competitive funding program for certain transportation related activities, such as sidewalks, bicycle lanes, landscaping, historic preservation, and environmental mitigation. The program is federally funded and administered by the Texas Department of Transportation. The City of Southlake’s F.M. 1709 sidewalk completion project was selected for funding as part of the 2009 program. The City is currently working on finalizing construction plans for the missing sidewalk segments. Once these sidewalk segments are completed, pedestrian mobility along F.M. 1709 will improve greatly. Along F.M. 1938 north of F.M. 1709, an 8 foot trail is planned on the east side of the roadway and a 5 foot sidewalk is planned on the west side of the roadway. The trail and sidewalk will be constructed as part of the F.M. 1938 expansion project. However, south of F.M. 1709, no sidewalks or trails are currently planned. Due to grade issues on both sides of the roadway, sidewalks or trails will be difficult to add. 3.0 Land Use Recommendations In the context of comprehensive planning, “land use” typically refers to future land use designations as shown on the Future Land Use Map. The Future Land Use Map illustrates the desired location and distribution of land uses throughout the City, as opposed to the Existing Land Use Map (discussed in Section 1.2.1) which shows how land is currently being utilized. As such, the Future Land Use Map is an important visual tool used by city decision-makers, city staff, developers, and citizens to understand the community’s desired development pattern. Using the Southlake 2030 Plan Vision, Goals and Objectives as a guide and taking the challenges and issues identified in the previous chapter into consideration, the Southlake 2025 Plan Future Land Use Map was reviewed for sites that may require land use designation changes. Several sites were identified for a land use designation revision, primarily due to development changes that have occurred or are expected to occur in the near future. In this sector, only changes to the underlying land use designations are recommended. No changes to the optional land use designations are recommended. However, as a part of the Consolidated Land Use Plan, all “T-1” and “T-2” designations on the Optional Land Use Map will be removed. The following map highlights the areas in the F.M. 1938 and F.M. 1709 Corridor Plan Area that have an optional land use designation, including “T-1” and “T-2”. “T-1” and “T-2” will be discussed further in the Consolidated Land Use Plan. MAP 6A / The following map highlights the areas with recommended land use designation changes. The numbers on the map correspond to the reference numbers in the table that follows the map. MAP 6B / The land use recommendations are outlined in the following table. The numbers in the first column of the table are references to the numbers in the preceding two maps. The second column provides a brief description of the issues specific to the site and the third column provides recommendations to address the issues. The implementation metric in the fourth column is a quantifiable goal with a specified deadline for achievement. The “Strategic Link” and “VGO Tie” relate the issues, recommendations and implementation metrics to Strategic Focus Areas from the City’s Strategy Map and to specific objectives from the adopted Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals and Objectives. The “VNT Link” column relates the issues and recommendations to the guiding principles of the Vision North Texas document, North Texas 2050. The final column provides the abbreviation for the department(s) that will take the lead on the implementation of the recommendations. This format is followed for all the recommendation tables in this plan. TABLE 3: F.M. 1709 AND F.M. 1938 LAND USE RECOMMENDATIONS Ref. No. Issues Recommendations Implementation Metric Strategic Link VNT Link VGO Tie Responsible Department  LU1 Land use designation is Low Density Residential and Floodplain Frontage along 7-lane major arterial Significant east-west elevation change Change underlying land use designation from Medium Density Residential to Mixed Use. Amend Land Use Map in FY 2011/FY 2012. Quality Development, B1 Quality Places 1.8 PDS  LU2 Land use designation is Medium Density Residential, Floodplain, and Mixed Use Private road Multiple ownerships Frontage along 7-lane major arterial Maintain Mixed Use land use designation east of creek. Maintain Medium Density land use designation west of creek, specifically allowing office uses. Preserve the floodplain corridor. Include site specific recommendation in Consolidated Land Use Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Quality Development, B1 Quality Places 1.8 PDS  LU3 Land use designation is Medium Density Residential and Retail Commercial Existing retail commercial uses along Players Circle Nonconforming tree farm Office zoning adjacent to Peytonville Expand the Retail Commercial designation to include all of Players Circle. Maintain remaining Medium Density Residential designation, specifically allowing office uses on properties adjacent to Peytonville. Amend Land Use Map in FY 2011/FY 2012. Quality Development, B1 Quality Places 1.8 PDS   LU4 Land use designation is Medium Density Residential and Office Commercial Office Commercial designation does not follow the boundaries of existing office development Potential for office development adjacent to Carroll Avenue Expand the Office Commercial designation to include the full boundaries of the existing office development and to include properties fronting on Carroll Avenue. Buffer existing and future residential from office uses. Amend Land Use Map in FY 2011/FY 2012. Quality Development, B1 Quality Places 1.8 PDS   4.0 Mobility Recommendations “Mobility” refers to the City’s transportation network and includes automotive, pedestrian, bicycle and other alternative modes of transportation. Over the past several decades, the physical, social and economic success Southlake has experienced can be attributed in part to the City's transportation network. The highways, streets, paths, railway and proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport that provide mobility within the City and access to points beyond have caused Southlake to transition from a relatively isolated community at its incorporation to a premier City in the DFW Metroplex and beyond today. However, the same transportation network has also created adverse side effects: traffic congestion due to regional travel patterns, increased pollutant emissions and high stress levels due to commuting. 4.1 Roadways in the F.M. Corridors As previously discussed, F.M. 1938 and F.M. 1709 are two of the three major roadway corridors in the City of Southlake. According to the Master Thoroughfare Plan, F.M. 1938 is classified as a parkway with 140 feet of right of way north of F.M. 1709 and as an arterial with 130 feet of right of way south of F.M. 1709. F.M. 1709 is classified as an arterial with 130 feet of right of way. The thoroughfare designations for both of these major roadways as well as other streets in the F.M. Corridor Plan Area are illustrated in the following map. MAP 7: EXISTING MASTER THOROUGHFARE PLAN FOR THE F.M. 1938 AND F.M. 1709 CORRIDORS / F.M. 1709 is currently undergoing improvements including the addition of landscaped medians, deceleration lanes, and sidewalks. Completion of the medians and deceleration lanes is expected in winter 2011/2012. Completion of all sidewalk gaps along F.M. 1709 will follow. North of F.M. 1709, F.M. 1938 will be improved from a 2-lane undivided cross section to a variable width divided regional thoroughfare. Phase I of the roadway improvement project, which extends from S.H. 114 in Westlake to the Randol Mill bend in Southlake, is currently under construction and is expected to be complete in 2012. Phase II, which extends from the Randol Mill bend to F.M. 1709 (including the intersection of F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938), is under design. Construction dates for Phase II are uncertain at this time. The roadway will have 6 travel lanes north of Dove Road and 4 travel lanes south of Dove Road. Aesthetic improvements associated with the aforementioned construction of F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 are based in part on recommendations from the Major Corridors Urban Design Plan. The Urban Design Plan was also the basis for the Conceptual Landscape and Amenity Plan for F.M. 1938 – Phase II. Both the Urban Design Plan and Conceptual Landscape and Amenity Plan for F.M. 1938 – Phase II are briefly discussed on the following pages. 4.1.1 Major Corridors Urban Design Plan The 2008 Major Corridors Urban Design Plan provided “character zone” classifications for the various areas of F.M. 1709 as well as for the section of F.M. 1938 south of F.M. 1709. These character zones identify urban design opportunities along the roadway corridors that complement existing and future land uses. The exhibit below illustrates the character zone classifications for the F.M. Corridor Plan Area: / Around the F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 intersection and south of F.M. 1709, the roadway corridors are classified as “Commercial Parkway” due to existing office and commercial uses as well as future office and commercial uses anticipated south of F.M. 1709. In this zone, the Major Corridors Urban Design Plan recommends intersection enhancements at F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 as well as medians on F.M. 1938 south of F.M. 1709. Landscaped medians will provide opportunities to improve the visual appearance of this corridor as well as to improve safety. / Commerical Parkway Median Design Concept for F.M. 1938 South of F.M. 1709. East of F.M. 1938 and west of White Chapel Boulevard, F.M. 1709 is classified as an “Estate Residential Zone” due to the residential subdivisions, wide grassy parkways, and lower intensity office and commercial uses adjacent to the roadway. Landscaped medians are currently being installed along F.M. 1709 that will further enhance the residential character of this area of the city. In addition, the Major Corridors Urban Design Plan recommends parkway enhancements along F.M. 1709 to add interest to the corridor and create a sense of place. / Recommended parkway design along the Residential Estate area showing the curvilinear pathway, informal tree planting, and stone identity markers at key locations. 4.1.2 Conceptual Landscape and Amenity Plan for F.M. 1938 – Phase II City Council discussed the Conceptual Landscape and Amenity Plan for F.M. 1938 – Phase II at their November 16, 2010 meeting. This conceptual plan includes general recommendations for canopy trees, ornamental trees, planting beds, pavers, and identity monuments, consistent with the Major Corridors Urban Design Study. Excerpts providing further detail on the conceptual plan are provided on the following pages. / The intersection at Southlake Blvd. is identified as a pulse point and calls for an identity monument. The conceptual design proposes that four appropriately scaled identity monuments be placed wrapping each corner of the intersection with ornamental trees and planting. The main emphasis of the design is tree planting both in the medians and parkways. There are approximately 480 canopy trees and 270 ornamental trees incorporated into the plan. /   The north end of the project serves as an entry point into the City of Southlake. Accordingly, a gateway tower is recommended in the median. Three design options for the tower and corresponding identity monuments for the Southlake Blvd. intersection are shown. / 4.2 Pathways in the F.M. Corridors The City of Southlake places a high priority on sidewalks and trails for both mobility and recreation. Currently the City has an approved Sidewalk Pathways Plan which indicates the location of future sidewalk facilities in the City and priorities these facilities for construction. Also, the City of Southlake ensures construction of sidewalks by the following actions: 1) allocates approximately $400,000 annually for the construction of trails and sidewalks in the CIP (Capital Improvements Program); 2) seeks grants for funding; 3) requires new development to construct sidewalks along public streets adjacent to the site; 4) implemented the sidewalk matching program (a 50% cost sharing program for the design and construction of sidewalks within neighborhoods); and 5) implemented the Sidewalk Partnership program (promotes the dedication of easements by citizens and business for the construction of sidewalks). The map below shows the existing Pathways Plan for the F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 Corridor. MAP 8: EXISTING PATHWAYS PLAN / As shown in the map above, the primary east-west route for pedestrian mobility is found along F.M. 1709. However, the sidewalks adjacent to F.M. 1709 have several missing segments. As previously discussed (see Section 2.0), nearly all missing sidewalk segments along F.M. 1709 will be constructed in the near future as part of the deceleration lane construction project or as part of a separate sidewalk project funded with assistance from the Statewide Transportation Enhancement Program (STEP). Ideally, the primary north-south route for pedestrian mobility in this plan area would be found adjacent to F.M. 1938. Although there will be sidewalks on both sides of F.M. 1938 north of F.M. 1709 which will be built with the expansion of F.M. 1938, there are no plans for sidewalks south of F.M. 1709. Due to grade issues on both sides of the roadway south of F.M. 1709, sidewalks or trails will be difficult to add. However, the Pathways Plan does currently recommend a north-south trail adjacent to the stream corridor west of F.M. 1938. 4.3 Mobility Recommendations In coordination with the Vision, Goals & Objectives, adopted by City Council in November 2009, the following table lists the recommendations for the F.M. 1938 and F.M. 1709 Corridor Plan Area regarding mobility. For a description of each column heading, please refer to the legend following the table. TABLE 4: F.M. 1709 CORRIDOR AND F.M. 1938 CORRIDOR MOBILITY RECOMMENDATIONS    Ref. No. Issues Recommendations Implementation Metric Strategic Link VNT Link VGO Tie Responsible Department  M1 The addition of a median to F.M. 1709 in front of Town Square may inadvertently encourage more pedestrians to cross F.M. 1709 at State Street and Grand Avenue. Encourage pedestrian crossings at the intersections of F.M. 1709 and Carroll Avenue and F.M. 1709 and Central Avenue through signage and creation of a walkable environment. If necessary, consider methods to discourage mid-block crossings at State Street and Grand Avenue. Also consider the construction of a pedestrian bridge over F.M. 1709. Address in the Mobility Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Mobility, C2 Pedestrian Design 3.3 PDS, PW   M2 The Pathways Plan does not currently recommend a trail or sidewalk adjacent to F.M. 1938 south of F.M. 1709. However, a trail and sidewalk are planned north of F.M. 1709. Due to the speed of traffic on F.M. 1938 and grading issues on both sides of the roadway (south of F.M. 1709), pedestrian mobility is a significant challenge in this area. Consider options to provide pedestrian connectivity, such as developing a sidewalk/trail network internal to new developments adjacent to F.M. 1938 that provides north/south pedestrian mobility. Address in the Mobility Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Mobility, C2 Pedestrian Design 3.3 PDS, PW  M3 There are inconsistencies in the local naming of F.M. 1938 – the roadway changes from Precinct Line in Westlake to Randol Mill Avenue and Davis Boulevard in Southlake. In addition, the completion of F.M. 1938 north of F.M. 1709 calls into question how the Randol Mill “bend” should be named. Begin initial conversations with stakeholders regarding naming of F.M. 1938 and the Randol Mill “bend”. Initiate contact with stakeholders in FY 2012. Mobility, C2, B2, B4 Efficient Mobility Options  PW, PDS   M4 As smaller parcels develop or older properties redevelop, there may be substantial inconsistencies in architectural design that may result in a disorderly appearance along the corridors. Consider options for establishing architectural design standards for the corridors, including identifying a preferred color palette. Focus should be placed on complementary design and colors rather than uniform design and colors. Research similar standards in other communities and consider zoning ordinance amendments in FY 2012. Quality Development, C3, B3 Quality Places  PDS  M5 The Sidewalk plan and Pathways Plan maps do not distinguish between public and private sidewalks/trails. Revise the Sidewalk Plan and Pathways Plan maps to distinguish between public and private sidewalks/trails. When considering sidewalk construction priorities, note that any connections to private sidewalks/trails should be made through the Neighborhood Sidewalk Matching Funds Program. Revise as part of the Mobility Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Mobility, B4, B5 Pedestrian Design 3.3 PDS  M6 The community desires to improve pedestrian mobility along arterials. Improve pedestrian mobility along arterials: Identify gaps in the sidewalk network along arterials Prioritize construction of these gaps Address in Mobility Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Mobility, Infrastructure, Performance and Service Delivery, C1, C2 Pedestrian Design, Efficient Mobility Options 1.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 PDS, PW   M7 The community desires to maximize pedestrian and bicycle mobility to encourage exercise and to reduce dependence on automobiles. Identify and seek to eliminate hazards to increase safe, efficient bicycle or pedestrian movement citywide. Address in Mobility Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Safety and Security, Mobility, Infrastructure, C2 Pedestrian Design, Efficient Mobility Options, Healthy Communities 3.1, 3.3, 3.5, 3.7, 3.9 PDS, PW  M8 The community desires to maximize bike and pedestrian access to parks. Increase access to existing and future parks and expand pedestrian linkages between park and recreational facilities. Address in Mobility Plan in FY 2011/FY 2012. Mobility, Infrastructure, Performance Management and Service Delivery, C2 Pedestrian Design, Efficient Mobility Options 3.1, 3.3, 3.5, 3.7, 3.9 CS   Recommendations Table Legend Ref. No. = Reference number. Issues = A brief description of the issue requiring action. Recommendations = Recommendations to address the issues. Implementation Metric = A quantifiable goal, often with a deadline for achievement. Strategic Link = The Strategic Focus Area(s) from the City’s Strategy Map that relate to the issue and recommendations. VNT Link = The guiding principle(s) from Vision North Texas that relate to the issue and recommendations. VGO Tie = Specific objective(s) from the adopted Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals and Objectives that relate to the issue and recommendations. Responsible Department = The department(s) that will take the lead on implementing the recommendation. PDS = Planning & Development Services; PW = Public Works; CS = Community Services; ED = Economic Development; DPS = Department of Public Safety Gray Shading = Citywide goals (not unique to the F.M. corridors). 5.0 Environmental Resource Recommendations Environmental sustainability is vital to the current and long term financial health of the City and the physical and emotional health of area residents. As such, the City of Southlake places a high priority on the protection and conservation of the community’s natural assets. “Environmental resources” in this section primarily refer to natural amenities, such as trees, water, soil, air, and wildlife. A more detailed discussion on sustainability, including topics such as energy use, waste reduction, and recycling, may be found in the Sustainability Plan. The primary environmental resource issues in the F.M. 1709 and F.M. 1938 corridors are protection of the floodplain and preservation and enhancement of the existing tree canopy. A tributary of Bear Creek with a significant area in the 100 year flood plain runs north-south along the western edge of the F.M. 1938 Corridor, presenting unique opportunities and challenges. Many of the trees are found adjacent to the floodplain, as shown in the map below. Most of these trees are characteristic of the Cross Timbers ecosystem, including Post Oaks, Blackjack Oaks, Cedar Elms, American Elms, Hackberries, Pecans, and Cottonwoods. In addition, significant grade changes in the F.M. 1938 Corridor present challenges. Specifically, along F.M. 1938 south of F.M. 1709, a steep grade separates the roadway from the properties to the east. This grade change will require special consideration for any proposed development or redevelopment of the properties between Southlake Marketplace and North Davis Business Park. MAP 9: EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE PROTECTION PLAN MAP / 5.1 Environmental Resource Recommendations Based on the Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals, and Objectives, the following general environmental resource recommendations are proposed. Although no area specific recommendations are proposed for the F.M. 1938 and F.M. 1709 Corridor Plan Area, all of the citywide environmental resource recommendations originally developed in the North Sector Plan have been carried over to this plan. For a description of each column heading, please refer to the legend following the table. TABLE 5: F.M. 1709 AND F.M. 1938 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE RECOMMENDATIONS Ref. No. Issues Recommendations Implementation Metric Strategic Link VNT Link VGO Tie Responsible Department  E1 Rec ognize the importance of the urban forest. Maintain Tree City USA status. Complete the Tree City USA application annually. Quality Development, C3 Environmental Stewardship 7.5 PDS  E2 The community desires a higher level of urban forest maintenance, management and protection. Evaluate options for improving tree protection. Consider: Software programs or other tools for managing and assessing existing tree cover. Revisions to existing ordinances to strengthen tree protection requirements and to allow for creative site design to protect trees. Providing incentives for tree protection. Conducting a tree survey. Begin a public street, parks and property tree inventory in FY2011. Consider if ordinance revisions and/or implementation of incentive programs are required by 1Q FY2012. Quality Development, C3, F2 Environmental Stewardship, Quality Places 7.5 PDS  E3 There is currently not an easy way for homeowners or developers to determine if a property has an approved Tree Conservation Plan. Develop a map of all areas with approved Tree Conservation Plans or add the areas to the Environmental Resource Protection Map. Provide the map on the City’s website. Complete and publish a map that includes approved Tree Conservation Plans by 1Q FY2012. Update map at least annually. Performance Management and Service Delivery, B4 Environmental Stewardship 7.3, 7.5 PDS   E4 The Environmental Resource Protection Plan does not address ecology and wildlife corridors. Update the Environmental Resource Protection Plan to include a discussion on local ecology and wildlife corridors. Complete as part of the Sustainability Plan in FY 2011. Performance Management and Service Delivery, F2 Environmental Stewardship 7.2, 7.7, 7.8 PDS  E5 The Environmental Resource Protection Map has not been updated since its adoption in 2005. It shows areas that have been developed as areas recommended for preservation. Update the Environmental Resource Protection Map to reflect development that has occurred in the past 4 years. Complete as part of the Sustainability Plan in FY 2011. Performance Management and Service Delivery, B4 Enviro nmental Stewardship 7.3, 7.5, 7.7 PDS  E6 Stream corridors, wetlands and floodplains require additional consideration during review of development and redevelopment cases. Encourage development that allows floodplains, wetlands and stream corridors to remain in a natural state. Consider establishment of standard “no development” distances from these areas. Address as part of the Sustainability Plan in FY 2011. Quality Development, F2 Environmental Stewardship, Quality Places 1.4, 7.3, 7.4 PDS   E7 As the City and region grow, water pollution from runoff also increases. Identify concrete drainage channels that may be rehabilitated to include vegetation that can filter runoff. Minimize impervious surfaces in new development. Consider use of pervious/porous concrete, bio-swales and other alternative storm water management devices. Encourage the use of native and adapted plants in landscaping. (Native and adapted plants require less chemical maintenance.) Continue to develop water conservation educational materials. Consider partnerships with other agencies for educational initiatives. Ensure that trees and vegetation adjacent to streams are preserved. Address as part of the Sustainability Plan in FY 2011. Safety and Security, Infrastructure, Quality Development, Partnerships and Volunteerism, C3, C5, F2 Environmental Stewardship, Quality Places, Resource Efficiency 1.4, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 9.1, 9.3, 10.5 PW, PDS   E8 The DFW region faces significant challenges for meeting increasing water demand in coming years. Encourage the use of native and adapted plants in landscaping. Continue to develop landscaping demonstration gardens within city parks and at the Bob Jones Nature Center that may be utilized in medians and traffic circles. Continue to encourage water conservation through public education. Consider establishing a program for citizens or businesses that significantly decrease their water usage. Consider partnerships with other agencies for educational initiatives. Evaluate watering methods for public and private properties, such as utilizing well water and prohibiting watering during certain times. Address as part of the Sustainability Plan in FY 2011. Safety and Security, Infrastructure, Quality Development, Partnerships and Volunteerism, Performance Management and Service Delivery, C3, B2, F2 Environmental Stewardship, Quality Places, Resource Efficiency 7.2, 7.3, 9.1, 9.3 PDS, PW, CS   E9 The DFW region continues to be classified as nonattainment for the pollutant ozone. Continue to develop the infrastructure for and encourage the use of non-motorized travel options, such as walking and biking. Protect existing tree cover and increase tree cover by planting more trees. Consider partnerships with other agencies for educational initiatives. Address as part of the Sustainability Plan in FY 2011. Safety and Security, Infrastructure, Quality Development, Partnerships and Volunteerism, Performance Management and Service Delivery, B2, F2, L5 Environmental Stewardship, Efficient Mobility Options 3.1, 3.3, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 7.2, 7.5, 7.6, 9.1, 9.3 PDS, PW  E10 As development continues, light pollution is an increasing problem in North Central Texas. Evaluate options for addressing and reducing light pollution. Include in city’s FY 2011 work program. Quality Development, B3 Environmental Stewardship 7.2 PDS  E11 Residents’ expectations for maintenance of common open space in neighborhoods are not always the same as the required level of maintenance. Require maintenance plan as part of zoning application process for public/private parks. Amend the Zoning Ordinance in FY 2011. Quality Development, C3 Environmental Stewardship 1.1 PDS   Recommendations Table Legend Ref. No. = Reference number. Issues = A brief description of the issue requiring action. Recommendations = Recommendations to address the issues. Implementation Metric = A quantifiable goal, often with a deadline for achievement. Strategic Link = The Strategic Focus Area(s) from the City’s Strategy Map that relate to the issue and recommendations. VNT Link = The guiding principle(s) from Vision North Texas that relate to the issue and recommendations. VGO Tie = Specific objective(s) from the adopted Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals and Objectives that relate to the issue and recommendations. Responsible Department = The department(s) that will take the lead on implementing the recommendation. PDS = Planning & Development Services; PW = Public Works; CS = Community Services; ED = Economic Development; DPS = Department of Public Safety Gray Shading = Citywide goals (not unique to the F.M. Corridor Plan Area). 6.0 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space The F.M. 1938 and F.M. 1709 Corridor Plan Area includes one public park: Bicentennial Park. Bicentennial Park has athletic fields, tennis courts, a playground, and Liberty Gardens. The F.M. Corridor Plan area also includes one joint use school property at Rockenbaugh Elementary School. A complete discussion on these facilities may be found in the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. MAP 10: PARKS IN F.M. 1938 AND F.M. 1709 CORRIDOR PLAN AREA / Based on the Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals, and Objectives, the following parks, recreation and open space recommendations are proposed. Although no area specific recommendations are proposed for the F.M. 1938 and F.M. 1709 Corridor Plan Area, the citywide parks, recreation and open space recommendation originally developed in the North Sector Plan has been carried over to this plan. For a description of each column heading, please refer to the legend that following the table. TABLE 6: F.M. 1938 AND F.M. 1709 CORRIDOR PLAN AREA PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE RECOMMENDATIONS Ref. No. Issues Recommendations Implementation Metric Strategic Link VNT Link VGO Tie Responsible Department  P1 Directional signs within city parks are either nonexistent or inadequate. Develop internal park signage plans for all parks. Consideration should be given to both active use signage, such as directional signs to sports fields, and to passive use signage, such as trail head signs and directional signs at trail forks. Prepare a Park Sign Master Plan that addresses signage in all parks. Quality Development, Safety and Security, Performance Management and Service Delivery, C3, B4, L5 Quality Places 1.12, 10.8 CS, PDS   Recommendations Table Legend Ref. No. = Reference number. Issues = A brief description of the issue requiring action. Recommendations = Recommendations to address the issues. Implementation Metric = A quantifiable goal, often with a deadline for achievement. Strategic Link = The Strategic Focus Area(s) from the City’s Strategy Map that relate to the issue and recommendations. VNT Link = The guiding principle(s) from Vision North Texas that relate to the issue and recommendations. VGO Tie = Specific objective(s) from the adopted Southlake 2030 Vision, Goals and Objectives that relate to the issue and recommendations. Responsible Department = The department(s) that will take the lead on implementing the recommendation. PDS = Planning & Development Services; PW = Public Works; CS = Community Services; ED = Economic Development; DPS = Department of Public Safety Gray Shading = Citywide goals (not unique to the F.M. Corridor Plan Area). Appendix A / Vision, Goals & Objectives Adopted by City Council on November 17, 2009 Ordinance No. 960 / Southlake 2030 Vision Statement Southlake will continue to enhance its status as a desirable, attractive, safe, healthy and fiscally-sound community with quality neighborhoods, while maintaining a high standard of living, learning, shopping, working, recreation, and open spaces. Southlake will continue to be a vibrant community that epitomizes both economic and environmental sustainability. Southlake 2030 Goals & Objectives Goal 1: Quality Development Promote quality development that is consistent with the Urban Design Plan, well- maintained, attractive, pedestrian-friendly, safe, contributes to an overall sense of place and meet the needs of a vibrant and diverse community. Objective 1.1 Encourage the maintenance of existing neighborhoods, features and amenities in order to preserve property values and a unique sense of place. Objective 1.2 Create and preserve attractive pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways to encourage transportation alternatives to the automobile. Objective 1.3 Encourage appropriately-scaled neighborhood design that compliments existing development patterns while creating unique places, recognizing that quality residential neighborhoods are the cornerstone of our community. Objective 1.4 Emphasize creativity and ensure environmental stewardship in the design of all development and public infrastructure, maximizing the preservation of desirable natural features such as trees, topography, streams, wildlife corridors and habitat. Objective 1.5 Promote unique community character through a cohesive theme by emphasizing urban design detail and performance standards for structures, streets, street lighting, landscaping, entry features, wayfinding signs, open spaces, amenities, pedestrian/automobile orientation and transition to adjacent uses. Objective 1.6 Consider high-quality single-family residential uses as part of a planned mixed-use development at appropriate transitional locations. Objective 1.7 Explore and encourage opportunities for redevelopment when appropriate. Objective 1.8 Ensure high-quality design and a heightened sensitivity towards the integration of new development with the existing development and urban design pattern. Objective 1.9 Strengthen street and landscape design standards to enhance the visual quality along major corridors. Objective 1.10 Continue to promote a strong working relationship with the Texas Department of Transportation to improve the appearance of bridges, embankments and entryways into the City. Objective 1.11 Ensure that city- and developer-provided infrastructure is functional, aesthetically well-designed, and integrated with the natural environment. Objective 1.12 Continue to strengthen the City’s regulations to encourage effective signage that is appropriately designed and scaled to minimize adverse impacts on community aesthetics. Objective 1.13 Explore creating participation programs with home owner associations and subdivision groups to enhance the long-term viability of neighborhood features and amenities. Goal 2: Balance Maintain a balanced approach to growth and development in order to preserve the City’s assets (schools, public safety, and competitive edge in the region) and fiscal health. Objective 2.1 Encourage a balance of uses, including retail, office, medical, hospitality, entertainment, institutional, industrial and residential that is both responsive to and sustainable within changing market conditions and sustains growth in property values for the future. Objective 2.2 Support appropriate public-private financial partnerships that will help retain and enhance the City’s economic base. Objective 2.3 Ensure the City’s built environment fosters a positive relationship between the taxable value of real property and the corresponding cost of municipal services. Goal 3: Mobility Develop an innovative mobility system that provides for the safe, convenient, efficient movement of people and goods, reduces traffic congestion, promotes energy and transportation efficiency and promotes expanded opportunities for citizens to meet some routine needs by walking or bicycling. Objective 3.1 Provide a safe and efficient streets and pathways network that allows travel to shopping areas, schools, parks and places of employment, reducing the need to travel on the City’s major arterials (FM 1709, FM 1938, or SH 114) and minimizes cut-through traffic in residential neighborhoods. Objective 3.2 Implement and promote a mobility system that addresses safety, design, comfort and aesthetic elements such as landscaping, crosswalks, railing, lighting, traffic-calming and signage in order to provide distinct character and functionality for the City. Objective 3.3 In accordance with a need identified by the Citizen Survey, provide and promote a continuous pedestrian pathways system that is user-friendly, efficient, safe, economical, and connect parks, shopping, schools, work and residential areas. Objective 3.4 Pursue opportunities to link Southlake’s pathways to systems in adjacent cities and trails on the Corps of Engineers property. Objective 3.5 Develop a program to encourage the dedication of easements for pathway construction in accordance with the sidewalk priority plan and Capital Improvements Plan. Objective 3.6 Identify and prioritize the funding and construction of mobility system capital improvements projects according to the impacts on safety, system efficiency, costs, and maintaining acceptable levels of service. Objective 3.7 Increase safe bicycle mobility when reasonably possible. Objective 3.8 Continue to promote a strong working relationship with the Texas Department of Transportation to identify, design and implement projects that prevent or relieve congestion in the area. Objective 3.9 Continue to evaluate and improve upon the existing mobility system within the City, maintaining existing infrastructure, making required improvements and evaluating innovative ways to integrate transportation and land use. Objective 3.10 Obtain adequate right-of-way for future roadway corridors and improvements. Goal 4: Parks, Recreation and Open Space Support a comprehensive integrated parks, recreation and open space system for all ages that creates value and preserves natural assets of the City. Objective 4.1 Ensure that new development incorporates usable open space. Objective 4.2 Ensure that parkland and open spaces include an integrated mix of developed and natural areas with consideration of protecting the City’s ecosystem and wildlife corridors. Objective 4.3 Promote water conservation and reuse in the design of parks and open spaces. Objective 4.4 Utilize partnerships to create open space and recreation facilities. Objective 4.5 Ensure an even geographic distribution of park facilities and recreation activities—both active and passive—for citizens of all ages. Objective 4.6 Provide a full range of park facilities and linear linkages that will accommodate the current and future needs of the City’s residents and visitors. Objective 4.7 Integrate passive recreational opportunities into preserved natural and drainage areas. Objective 4.8 Incorporate feedback received from the Parks and Recreation Citizen Survey into recreation activities and park facilities. Objective 4.9 Acknowledge the City’s rich natural history, heritage and historical landmarks. Objective 4.10 Determine parkland desirable for dedication as part of the development process based on classification, location and maintenance cost. Objective 4.11 Prioritize investments in existing and established parks understanding that there will be strategic opportunities for land acquisition. Objective 4.12 Incorporate educational and learning opportunities within parks and related facilities. Objective 4.13 Pursue recreational and educational opportunities on Corps of Engineers property compatible with the goal of protecting and preserving the existing ecosystem for future generations. Goal 5: Public Safety Establish and maintain protective measures and policies that reduce danger, risk or injury to property and individuals who live, work or visit the City. Objective 5.1 Maintain a level of police, fire and ambulance services commensurate with population and business needs. Objective 5.2 Provide effective and efficient professional public safety services in partnership with the citizens we serve, encouraging mutual respect and innovative problem-solving, thereby improving the quality of life in our community. Objective 5.3 Ensure compliance with the stated standard of response coverage and industry guidelines through the provision of facilities, equipment, personnel and roadways. Objective 5.4 Ensure that all buildings and public facilities are constructed in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local safety regulations and standards. Objective 5.5 Maintain the continued compliance with national standard of excellence through the accreditation process. Objective 5.6 Enhance and promote public safety through public-private partnerships and utilization and training of volunteers. Objective 5.7 Maintain a high level of community readiness through training and communications among neighborhood and volunteer groups and city, county, state, and federal entities. Objective 5.8 Develop and implement safety education programs that enhance the quality of life and safety in the community. Objective 5.9 Promote security of public buildings and infrastructure. Objective 5.10 Ensure safe and healthy working conditions for city staff, volunteers and officials by providing security, facility, vehicular and equipment maintenance, information, education and training. Goal 6: Economic Development Create a diversified, vibrant and sustainable economy through the attraction and support of business enterprises and tourism meeting the vision and standards desired by City leaders. Objective 6.1 Promote the City both nationally and regionally as a great place to live, work, visit, shop and recreate. Objective 6.2 Provide necessary, desirable and diverse goods and services for residents of the City. Objective 6.3 Foster an environment that retains and supports existing businesses to ensure the sustainability of our existing tax base. Objective 6.4 Attract desired businesses to ensure economic growth as well as continued employment and services for residents of the City. Objective 6.5 Enhance the quality of life for residents and the sustainability of City business through the promotion of the tourism, convention and hotel industry in the City. Objective 6.6 Develop a clear and understandable incentive policy that accomplishes the business attraction and retention goals of the City and is based on factors such as job creation, investment, quality of business, return on investment and overall value to the community. Objective 6.7 Foster communication between the public and private sectors. Goal 7: Sustainability Encourage the conservation, protection, enhancement and proper management of the natural and built environment. Objective 7.1 Maintain and implement policies to reduce the use of nonrenewable resources, such as energy in the heating, cooling, and operation and maintenance of city facilities. Objective 7.2 Promote public awareness and education on such sustainability issues as public health, energy and water conservation and overall environmental stewardship. Objective 7.3 Promote sustainable public and private development practices and patterns, building design, water-use reduction and waste reduction while maintaining the existing character of the city. Objective 7.4 Protect surface, storm, and groundwater quality from septic discharge, impervious surface runoff, improper waste disposal and other potential contaminant sources. Objective 7.5 Conserve, restore and promote tree and plant cover that is native or adaptive to the City and region while also protecting existing significant vegetation and maintaining the existing character of the City. Objective 7.6 Protect and enhance air quality in coordination with federal, regional and local agencies. Objective 7.7 Recognize the importance of and protect the biological diversity for the ecological and aesthetic benefits to the community. Objective 7.8 Define, protect, and celebrate the local Cross Timbers Ecosystem as a community asset for future generations. Objective 7.9 Assess and minimize the ecological impact of any new trails provided on Corps of Engineers property. Goal 8: Community Facilities Plan and provide quality community facilities and services that effectively meet the service needs of Southlake’s residents and businesses. Objective 8.1 Provide a level of community facilities that meet the needs of both the existing and projected population. Objective 8.2 Encourage cooperation with the school districts in planning for and financing community facilities to encourage the cost-effective provision of resources. Objective 8.3 Systematically evaluate City-owned buildings in terms of their quality of service delivery and prioritize maintenance and renovation accordingly. Objective 8.4 Incorporate new computer and telecommunications technologies into public buildings and designated areas in order to improve time and cost efficiency of service delivery and to meet increasing demands of information access and sharing. Goal 9: Partnerships Fully utilize and coordinate with the City’s many partners to address issues facing the area, provide services and facilities, promote volunteerism, support events and programs and encourage economic growth. Objective 9.1 Partner with other government entities, non-governmental organizations and the North Central Texas Council of Governments to address regional and local issues. Objective 9.2 Continue mutually beneficial partnerships between the City and local school districts to explore the provision of facilities, services, technology, and other opportunities through open communication and close coordination. Objective 9.3 Continue active partnerships with non-profit organizations, civic groups and local businesses to create opportunities that benefit the community. Objective 9.4 Partner with local school districts to educate Southlake’s youth in their municipality and seek youth input when planning the future of our community. Goal 10: Infrastructure Through sound management and strategic investment, develop, maintain, improve and operate public infrastructure that promotes health, safety and an enhanced quality of life for all members of the community. Objective 10.1 Ensure equitably-distributed and adequate services and facilities. Objective 10.2 Plan and program land acquisition and the installation of all essential public facilities to reasonably coincide with the need for such facilities. Objective 10.3 Identify and implement programs where costs may be shared by multiple agencies and/or developers. Objective 10.4 Provide for adequate public water and sewer services in appropriate areas of the City. Objective 10.5 Provide and maintain an effective stormwater management system throughout the City. Objective 10.6 Maintain and enhance existing infrastructure and levels of service through the provision of timely maintenance, repair and replacement as needed. Objective 10.7 Provide and maintain effective solid waste collection and recycling programs for residents. Objective 10.8 Provide a streetlight system for adequate illumination and a wayfinding signage system for pedestrian and driver safety where appropriate. Appendix B / Appendix C North Texas 2050 Guiding Principles Excerpted from North Texas 2050 www.visionnorthtexas.org Development Diversity – Meet the needs of changing markets by providing a mix of development options and land use types in communities throughout the region. Efficient Growth – Promote reinvestment and redevelopment in areas with existing infrastructure, ensure that new infrastructure supports orderly and sustainable growth, and provide coordinated regional systems of natural and built infrastructure. Pedestrian Design – Create and connect pedestrian-(and bicyclist) oriented neighborhoods, centers and places throughout the region. Housing Choice – Sustain and facilitate a range of housing opportunities and choices that meet the needs of residents of all economic levels and at all stages of life. Activity Centers – Create mixed use developments that are centers of neighborhoods and community activities and serve as hubs of non-automobile transportation systems. Environmental Stewardship – Protect, retain or enhance the region’s important natural assets (including its air, water, land and forests) and integrate these natural features and systems into the character of the region’s communities and the experiences of its residents. Quality Places – Strengthen the identities of the region’s diverse communities through preservation of significant historic structures and natural assets, creation of new landmarks and gathering spaces, use of compatible architectural and landscape design, and support for the activities and institutions that make each community unique. Efficient Mobility Options – Invest in transportation systems, facilities and operations that provide multi-modal choices for the efficient and sustainable movement of people, goods, and services. Resource Efficiency – Design buildings, sites, communities and regional systems to use water, energy, and renewable resources responsibly, effectively and efficiently, and to retain non-renewable resources for the use of future generations. Educational Opportunity – Provide opportunities for all North Texans to have access to the schools, people and technology they need for success in learning throughout their lives. Healthy Communities – Identify and support functional, sustainable infrastructure and institutions that offer North Texans access to affordable, nutritious foods, opportunities for physical activity, and access to wellness and primary care services. Implementation – Achieve the region’s vision by adoption of compatible comprehensive plans and ordinances for cities and consistent investment plans for regional systems; involve citizens and stakeholders in all aspects of these planning processes.