Draft Stillwater Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies:

Transcription

1 Draft Stillwater Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies: I. Land Use A. Community Character Goal 1. Strengthen Stillwater s unique character. Goal 2. Preserve and strengthen Stillwater s quality of life. Goal 3. Maintain diversity and preserve and enhance views of dominant natural and manmade features. B. Character of New Development Goal 4. Establish neighborhood identity through subdivision design, preservation of natural resources, public improvements and parks. Policy 1: Create distinct, identifiable neighborhoods with neighborhood focal points where practical. Policy 2: Support the quality of public, residential, commercial and industrial development throughout the City through community education, design review and code enforcement. Policy 3: Maintain buffering and visual separation between developed areas and adjacent semi rural properties outside of City annexation areas. Policy 4: Support neighborhood groups interested in neighborhood design in existing areas. Policy 5: Provide appropriate locations for neighborhood business nodes which provide goods/services for the surrounding area (i.e. café, coffee shop, bakery). Goal 5. Maintain Stillwater as a separate and distinct community from the larger metropolitan area. Policy 6: Create new, interesting, quality designed neighborhoods that relate to their natural settings and surroundings protect natural resources, provide central parks and open spaces and are interconnected by trails to neighborhoods and community destinations. Policy 7: Coordinate the provisions of roads, water, sewer and storm drainage systems. Page 1 of 23

2 Policy 8: Require that new development pay for its share of parks, trails and infrastructure improvements. Policy 9: Maintain high-quality public facilities to accommodate existing City needs and for new development areas. Policy 10: Phase public improvement expansion to minimize the City s financial risk and accommodate development. C. Community Size, Shape, Separation/Buffering Goal 6. Maintain the open space separation between Stillwater and surrounding semi-rural township areas with zoning regulation, open space dedication, development design review and land purchase as appropriate. Policy 11: Use wetlands, woodlands, windbreaks, ravines and bluffs to form a natural framework and help define new development. Policy 12: The City shall identify and protect neighborhood open space sites of aesthetic, recreational or natural resource value in preparing neighborhood plans. Goal 7. Determine the desired growth and phase urban services to accommodate growth to 2020 and Policy 13: Coordinate the planning and phasing of new development in the annexation area with Stillwater Township. Policy 14: Evaluate appropriate density levels for all residential land use types. Policy 15: Maintain areas outside the City within the annexation area in large lots or large properties to allow for efficient urban development. Policy 16: Screen views from Dellwood Road, Manning Avenue, Myrtle Street, McKusick Road, Boutwell Avenue and TH 36 of developed areas using existing vegetation and land forms, new landscaping, wetlands and greenways. D. Land Use Goal 8. Accommodate residential, commercial/industrial development opportunities in the community, which: a. are compatible with surrounding uses; b. meet public needs; c. do not create undue public costs or burdens on infrastructure; d. do not harm the environment; and e. are aesthetically pleasing. Page 2 of 23

3 Policy 17: Encourage innovative development concepts in either new or redeveloping areas that: a. Provide access to a variety of transportation systems: transit, bicycles, pedestrians and automobiles; b. Link life cycle housing with employment, shopping and recreation areas; c. protect natural resources and maintain open space; and d. use mixed use, cluster and other sustainable levels of development. Policy 18: Identify and preserve cultural resources and unique land forms in growth areas to maintain elements of the areas past and to provide an identity for new development. Policy 19: Provide for a range of new housing opportunities from large lot single family to multifamily. Policy 20: Support multifamily residential development in locations accessible to public transportation and community services and facilities. Policy 21: Continue to actively participate in the development, update and implementation of the comprehensive plans for Washington County and surrounding jurisdictions. E. Land Use Goal 9. Define a land use plan that fosters economic growth and evolution by reinforcing the Rivertown image of Stillwater and promoting a compact mixture of commercial, office, residential, recreational, and institutional uses, and is flexible to respond to varying market conditions. Goal 10. Encourage a viable and compatible mix of community and visitor-serving activities that builds on the assets of as a desirable place to live, work, shop, and visit consistent with the capacity of public services and facilities and the natural resources. Policy 22: Promote complementary retail, office, service, institutional, housing, and tourist-related activities to provide economic stability. Policy 23: Achieve a balance between visitor-related activities and communityoriented activities. Policy 24: Build on Stillwater s unique aspects by creating a marketing strategy based on the historic and Rivertown characteristics of the. Policy 25: Maximize the waterfront as an amenity which supports housing, recreation, and retail growth. Page 3 of 23

4 Policy 26: Promote tourism consistent with retaining Stillwater s unique natural resources, and historic and architectural character. Goal 11. Increase the tax base and provide opportunities for economic growth for Stillwater and Stillwater area residents. a. Adopt creative funding sources to implement improvement projects, such as lodging tax, sales tax, bridge toll, parking fees, grants, private donations, tickets to City festivals, development partnerships, T.I.F., historical tax credit, and user fee. Policy 27: Promote and maintain the as a central focus for community economic and cultural activity. F. Urban Design and Character Goal 12. Preserve the natural appearance of the entrances to shaped by the bluffs, woodlands and hillsides of the River Valley. Policy 28: Maintain visual access to the St. Croix River while preserving the natural character of the Highway 95 gateway corridor north and south of. Consider illuminating the exposed limestone sections of the bluffs to add warmth and nighttime interest to the entry experience at both the north and south entrances to downtown. The lighting must be subdued and energy efficient. Policy 29: Define Myrtle Street as a great boulevard and gateway to the City as well as a connection to the west. Policy 30: Reinforce views and gateway corridors along Myrtle, Mulberry, 2 nd, 3 rd, and Main streets. Policy 31: Adopt guidelines or ordinances that will shape the edge of the corridors with buildings, landscaping, and appropriate signing. Policy 32: Preserve and reinforce views to natural features, landmarks, steeples, and other significant elements. Policy 33: Create architectural focal points, such as arbors, sculpture or gazebos at terminal points of Mulberry, Myrtle, Chestnut, and Nelson Streets and the River. Policy 34: Preserve significant historic structures including the Lift Bridge across the St. Croix River. Policy 35: Incorporate an interpretive system to celebrate the historical and natural resources of the including the River, the bluffs, east bank of the River, the ecology, and geologic history of the River corridor. Page 4 of 23

5 Policy 36: Preserve structures that are on or qualify for the National Register of Historic Places. Goal 13. Require architecture and urban design which recalls late 19th Century commercial design, is refined and subdued, introduces more color consistent with the Victorian Era, and helps create an environment which is pleasing and interesting to pedestrians. Policy 37: Design guidelines for new development will require consistency with the existing character in the areas of pedestrian orientation, building height, setback proportions, materials, detailing, walls, facades, windows, rear entrances, roofs, signage, awnings, lighting, color, utility areas, exterior surfaces, landscaping, trademark building design, and parking. Policy 38: Continue to refine and administer design guidelines for new development, so that the integrity of the existing and surrounding buildings is maintained and new development is of a height, size, and design compatible with the best examples of existing development. The guidelines should also encourage rehabilitation of existing buildings to the original style or design. Policy 39: Use landscaping to blend the into the natural attraction of the St. Croix River Valley, to improve the enjoyment of the Riverfront, and to soften features such as parking lots and service areas which may be inconsistent with the desired image. Policy 40: Ensure that the water, sanitary sewer, and drainage systems are adequate to support present and future land development. Policy 41: Reduce the visual impact of overhead telephone and electricity lines. Policy 42: Preserve the limestone stone retaining walls located throughout. Policy 43: Require new retaining walls fronting public areas to be limestone or a material consistent with historical retaining walls and similar to existing stone used throughout. Policy 44: Reinforce pedestrian connections with a hierarchy of streetscape treatments. Focus streetscape treatments within a 10 minute walk distance of core and adjacent neighborhoods. Policy 45: Reinforce the unique character of each distinct residential, commercial, institutional, and district through appropriate land uses, architecture, and site design. Policy 46: Update development standards to include low impact stormwater treatments, parking lot buffering, and interior parking lot landscaping. Page 5 of 23

6 II. Transportation A. Goal 14. Make it easy and convenient to travel in and around Stillwater, tie new development to the capacity of roadways; prevent intrusion of non-residential traffic in neighborhoods when possible and develop a comprehensive sidewalk, trails and bikeway system. Policy 47: Create a coordinated, continuous system of arterials and collectors. Policy 48: Extend Neal Avenue from Boutwell to County Road 12 and intersect County Road 12 at an appropriate location. Design any intersection at County Road 12 to prevent through traffic onto any residential street. Policy 49: Provide a collector parkway connection from County Road 12 to Olive Street. Policy 50: Segment future local residential streets so that the majority of traffic flows onto collectors or arterials. Policy 51: Maintain the residential areas next to Greeley, Owen, Olive, Myrtle, Chestnut, Third, Fourth, and Pine Streets as residential uses and not allow the areas to convert to commercial land uses. Goal 15. Develop a coordinated transportation system that provides for local as well as area-wide traffic. Policy 52: Maintain the carrying capacity of through streets while minimizing the negative impact on adjacent residential areas through landscape treatment and street design. Policy 53: Work with MnDOT and Washington County to study and improve state highways and county roads where needed. Policy 54: Coordinate new development with roadway planning for CR 15, CR 12, CR 64, TH 96, TH 36. Policy 55: Ensure that planned transportation infrastructure, capacity and access will accommodate proposed land use and development. Policy 56: Improve traffic flow and parking in and around commercial areas. Policy 57: Continue to make every effort to provide adequate enforcement for traffic safety in residential areas. Page 6 of 23

7 Policy 58: Use Traffic Demand Management (TDM) to make most efficient use of existing road systems and minimize impact on adjacent areas. Goal 16. Provide efficient and environmentally sound transportation facilities consisting of roads, bikeways, transit lines and pedestrian paths. B. Goal 17. Support construction of the new interstate bridge and TH 36 corridor improvements to provide for regional traffic demands and to relieve cutthrough traffic on residential areas and downtown traffic. a. Prevent intrusion of non-residential traffic into neighborhoods when possible. b. Develop a comprehensive sidewalk, trail, and bikeway system. c. Support construction of new interstate bridge and TH 36 corridor improvements. d. Minimize through traffic in Stillwater. 8 e. Improve connection between Uptown and business districts. f. Increase weight restrictions for the lift bridge to discourage large trucks from traveling through. g. Investigate the desire and legal basis for tolling the lift bridge to deflect traffic not needing to go Stillwater. h. Consider a Shuttle that circulates between the neighborhoods and and parking facilities (e.g. during Lumberjack Days). i. Encourage the improvement of transportation infrastructure (parking, roadways, transit, etc.) to accommodate increased numbers of visitors to Stillwater. j. Consider reducing speed limits and other traffic calming techniques to slow vehicles down throughout and the neighborhoods. Policy 59: Work with Washington County and MnDOT on TH 36/CR 15 improvements and the planning and construction of a Frontage Road between CR 15 and CR 5. Goal 18. Provide an integrated system of roads, bikeways, transit lines, and pedestrian paths that supports the viability of as a desirable place to live, work, and play. The transportation system should minimize the impact of through traffic in the mid-term and anticipate the opportunities associated with reduced traffic volumes in resulting from the long term potential of the Highway 36 Bridge. Page 7 of 23

8 Policy 60: Work with MnDOT, County, local government agencies and local businesses/employers to address transportation management methods to relieve bridge traffic congestion concerns. C. Streetscapes Goal 19. Enhance the function, safety and appearance of Stillwater s streets, highways and major entryways into the City. Policy 61: The City will make every effort to beautify its existing streets and build new streets at a pedestrian scale (i.e., Pine Street, Greeley Street, Fourth Street, etc.). Policy 62: The amount of paving and the apparent width of streets shall be reduced physically and visually in new developing and existing areas where appropriate. Policy 63: The City shall encourage public and private landscaping along major streets. Policy 64: A comprehensive streetscape plan for planting and improvements shall be developed for major streets. Policy 65: A comprehensive signage/gateway plan shall be development for all major entry points into the City. Policy 66: The City shall install decorative directional signs (to downtown and other points of interest) along important thoroughfares. D. Transit Goal 20. Encourage use of a safe, efficient and convenient multi-modal transportation system including buses and encouraging ridesharing. Policy 67: Encourage the development of shuttle bus service in the downtown and other areas of the community. Policy 68: Increase transit ridership and support transit service dependent residents, particularly senior citizens, provide adequate transit facilities (bus stops, transfer station) to support transit use, and cooperate with the regional transit authority and Washington County to provide conveniently located park and ride facilities at major transit stops. Policy 69: Ensure safe travel for pedestrian and especially school aged children going to and from school. Page 8 of 23

9 Policy 70: Encourage transit use through subdivision design, land use planning and education. Policy 71: Incorporate elements in development standards related to bicycle and pedestrian uses. Policy 72: Expand and improve bicycle routes and create connections between routes and major destinations. Policy 73: Continue providing bicycle parking locations and attractive racks at key locations including parks, downtown and commercial centers. Policy 74: New and upgraded bridges, crossings and overpasses and TH 36 Frontage Road shall include bicycle lanes. E. Parking Goal 21. As redevelopment occurs in the, restructure and redesign the parking system so that it supports the image, economy, and other physical environmental objectives. a. Maintain the historic Lift Bridge as a direct connection to Wisconsin from the for local and visitor vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic. b. Provide drop off locations and parking for charter buses outside the immediate vicinity of Main and Chestnut bringing visitors to Stillwater. Then use the shuttle to bring them to the center of town. c. Locate new parking structures along Second Street west of Main Street. d. Remove parking from the Riverfront along Lowell Park as new parking becomes available and adequate spaces are available. e. Consider locating a transit stop in Stillwater to reduce the reliance on the automobile and promote convenient travel within the region. f. Potentially desirable locations for parking structures are identified at 1) Second and Olive, 2) Mulberry and Second Streets and 3) Second Street immediately north of the Lowell Inn. g. A shared public/private parking program is recommended to use private spaces when not in use. h. A financing plan to pay for parking improvements including possibly a parking structure is proposed for a first year activity. i. Maximize the efficiency of the limited parking supply through shared parking strategies, user education, signage enforcement, pricing, and other measures. 2 Page 9 of 23

10 j. Minimize the negative impacts of traffic and parking on the image while supporting appropriate economic activity. 2 k. Make off-street parking more apparent through more visible striping. 8 l. Consider the possibility of changing parallel parking along Main (between Nelson and Chestnut) to angle parking, preferably back-in angle parking. This would increase parking spaces by between 50 and 60 percent and slow traffic down as well. 8 m. Use topography and other site planning methods to minimize the visual presence of parking lots. 8 n. Consider the use of shuttles to and from remote parking areas for large events. 8 o. Consider rideshare programs, shuttles, and other methods to discourage employee and patron parking for neighborhood businesses on residential streets. 8 p. A specific trolley north to south. q. Incorporate linear buildings with office, retail, or residential uses on future parking structures to shield parking and to create a more vital street environment. r. Place time limits for street parking in neighborhoods. s. Consider on-street parking when defining required parking spaces for individual businesses fronting the streets. t. Utilize pervious and other green technologies for stormwater treatment where possible. u. Provide visual and physical links between future parking structures and Main Street, as well as the River. III. Open Space, Parks, Trails, and Riverfront A. Open Space Goal 22. Maintain and enhance Stillwater s physical diversity, natural setting and unique small town feeling. Policy 75: Develop an open space system comprised of parks, school grounds, ravines, shorelands, wetlands and land remnants for the visual and recreation enjoyment of the residents and visitors. Page 10 of 23

11 Policy 76: Identify, preserve and maintain views of important natural features including the St. Croix River Valley, ridge lines, hilltops and other important view corridors and natural open space areas. Policy 77: In making land use decisions, the City shall recognize the importance of open space and the presence of open space as dominant features such as the St. Croix River Valley as an integral part of Stillwater s community character. Policy 78: The City shall require well-designed development that is harmonious with its natural setting and which enhances the City s historical image. Policy 79: Strengthen the City s St. Croix River Ordinance to preserve the River Corridor. B. Park System Goal 23. Provide a variety of parks and other leisure, recreational and cultural opportunities that are accessible, affordable, safe, and physically attractive for all Stillwater residents. Policy 80: Maintain an equitable distribution of parks with a balance of active and passive recreation facilities throughout the community. Policy 81: Work with the Park Board on a location and development of a dog park. Goal 24. Enhance and expand existing recreational facilities for residents based on the recreational needs of the community and its neighborhoods. Policy 82: The City shall research the opportunity and need to purchase the Jaycees Field (and other possible land) and provide appropriate expansion and maintenance. Policy 83: Improve lake and beach quality and add amenities to the Lily Lake public swimming beach. Goal 25. Work with other local governments, the school district and Washington County to develop a St. Croix recreation and facilities plan. Goal 26. Bring the amount of Stillwater s park land into compliance with the City s adopted minimum standards (community park land at 3 acres per 1,000 population and neighborhood park land at 7 acres per 1,000 population). Policy 84: Work with the Park Board for an annual evaluation, maintenance and replacement of recreational facilities. Page 11 of 23

12 Policy 85: The City shall require all new development to dedicate land or pay a park fee according to the park dedication policy. Policy 86: The City shall obtain and develop new public parks at a rate consistent with residential development. Policy 87: As a standard the City shall strive to provide park facilities within one quarter mile or less of residents living within the residential areas of Stillwater without intrusion of major physical barriers. Policy 88: The City shall provide recreational activity sites to respond to the needs of a diverse population. These needs include ravine systems, trail ways for pedestrians, joggers and bicyclists and non-traditional types of recreation such as habitat restoration projects, community gardens, rollerblading Frisbee golf and dog parks. Policy 89: The development of private sector recreation facilities in appropriate locations shall be encouraged. Policy 90: The City shall consider the needs of the elderly and disabled when planning new or redesigning existing parks. Policy 91: The City shall work with the school districts in identifying and evaluating the potential for park acquisition of surplus school lands. C. Park Location and Design Goal 27. Locate new neighborhood parks in areas that distribute urban open space and to enhance neighborhood identity. This is especially applicable in the South Hill and Oak Glen planning areas. Policy 92: Design parks to enhance neighborhood identity and character as well as to serve recreation functions. Policy 93: Residential developments adjacent to parks or open spaces should be encouraged to provide direct access to and common open space contiguous with such areas. Policy 94: In considering the location and redevelopment of parks, the City shall select sites based of maximum accessibility, proper topography and visibility (for the safety of park users). Policy 95: The City shall promote private open and recreation facilities in largescale residential developments in order to meet a portion of the open space and recreation needs that will be generated by the development. Page 12 of 23

13 D. Trails Goal 28. The City shall construct a city-wide trail/bikeway system to connect to major activity centers, schools, downtown, scenic open space areas and lakes and other adjacent community systems. Policy 96: The City shall use trails, to connect parks, lakes and open space areas. Policy 97: Develop specific trail way plans which include connections to annexation area trails and trails within surrounding townships. Policy 98: Review and implement the city-wide trail system that links open space, natural areas, and parks that was prepared in Policy 99: Improve trail systems around the City s lakes including completion of the trail around McKusick Lake, consider a bicycle trail around Long Lake and create connections between lakes. Policy 100: Improve the City wide trail system to identify trails that connect neighborhoods into downtown. Policy 101: The City shall work with Washington County and surrounding jurisdictions to create and integrate a system of open space, trail and parks. Policy 102: The City shall require trails to be installed as a part of public facility improvements for new development. Policy 103: Bikeways, hiking trails, equestrian trails, rest areas and picnicking accommodations should be provided within designated trail corridors, wherever feasible. Policy 104: The City should control land development along designated trails and pathway corridors in order to provide sufficient right of way and to ensure that adjacent new development does not detract from the scenic and aesthetic qualities of the corridor. Policy 105: The design, construction and management of trails and pathways should be carefully planned and executed in order to minimize environmental disturbance. Policy 106: Public improvements within designated trails and pathways corridors should be designed to provide safe and secure routes for trails, including grade separation between roadways and trails whenever feasible. Policy 107: Encourage the incorporation of trails, bicycle facilities and pathways into corridors used for public and utility purposes. Page 13 of 23

14 Policy 108: Develop a pedestrian and bike trail along the St. Croix from Oak Park Heights to TH 96 as part of a St. Croix Riverway trail System. E. Riverfront Goal 29. Reinforce the Riverfront as the focus of the Stillwater open space system and as a significant regional cultural and historical amenity. Goal 30. Integrate and implement many elements of the recommendations outlined in the 1992 Renovation Plan for Lowell Park, Aiple Property/Kolliner Park Master Plan, North Main Street/Lowell Park Plan Update, and the Stage 3 Levee Plan to create a cohesive Riverfront Renovation of Lowell Park Policy 109: Develop a continuous Riverfront pedestrian walkway linking new and existing areas of. Policy 110: Create regular visual and pedestrian access corridors linking the Riverfront, Lowell Park, and Main Street. Policy 111: Design parking to serve both the, and the park. Screen views of parking from within the park. Policy 112: Consider providing short term public docking along lower levee. Policy 113: Upgrade Mulberry point to the passive recreational and pedestrian character defined by the Morrell and Nichols Lowell Park Plan. Policy 114: Consolidate boat launch and vehicles with trailer parking at the existing marina site and eventually north and south of. Policy 115: Develop Mulberry Street into a more formal processional boulevard linking the Riverfront and Main Street. Aiple Property Policy 116: Maintain the natural appearance of site from the River and entering Stillwater along Highway 95 from the south. Policy 117: Development plans shall address the bluff line, shore land, and floodplain requirements. Policy 118: Any plans should include a pedestrian pathway that links the southern City boundary along the River to Lowell Park. Page 14 of 23

15 Kolliner Park Policy 119: Development plans shall address the bluff line, shore land, and floodplain requirements. North Main Street/Lowell Park Plan Update Policy 120: Improve the appearance of parking lots while providing places to park. Policy 121: Provide pedestrian amenities such as landscaping, restrooms, trails and sidewalks, and interpretive sites of the and River. Policy 122: Provide permanent 50-year flood protection for the. Policy 123: Provide setting, location, and design for special festivals and events. Policy 124: Fit into and complement the natural and historic/cultural setting of the study area and the. Policy 125: Meet City parking obligations to the River Market. Policy 126: Secure City owned planning area lands for current and future public use. Policy 127: Integrate elements of the Preferred Alternative D with the Army Corps Stage 3 Levee design into the circulation and open space system. Balance the functional design of the Levee with aesthetics considerations and connections to River. Objectives include: a. Expand Lowell Park area by.76 acres and extend the park to Water Street. b. Organize and consolidate parking. c. Provide an opportunity for a visitor center/restroom/hospitality center for visitors. d. Locate a linear landscaped trail connecting the area to the north and south Main Street areas. Riverfront Policy 128: Link Kolliner Park to Lowell Park and the City park open space system by way of the Historic Lift Bridge. Page 15 of 23

16 Policy 129: Maintain Kolliner Park as a green backdrop to the while providing opportunities for residents to utilize the parks river access and space for active recreation. Policy 130: Expand Riverfront open space connections north to the Boom site and south through the Aiple property. Policy 131: Define a strategy to incorporate carefully juried public art into the open space and streetscape system. Policy 132: Consider a performing and visual art center within Stillwater. Policy 133: Explore the use of a pedestrian mall to connect the Riverfront to businesses on Main Street. Policy 134: Explore opportunities to utilize the old bridge such as, incorporating restaurants, prior to the construction of the new Highway 36 bridge. Policy 135: Program activities, entertainment, and businesses that are an appropriate mixture for people of all ages. Policy 136: Consider incorporating a community garden within the Riverfront open space. Policy 137: Incorporate public restrooms in a building. Policy 138: Encourage street vendors and performers where safe and appropriate. F. Parks, Open Space, and Trails Goal 31. Improve the connections between Old Town Neighborhoods,, and the Riverfront through improved visual access, trails, streetscape treatments, and open spaces. Improved visual access shall preserved existing woodlands. Policy 139: Improve existing stairway connections to adjacent residential neighborhoods with landscaping, lighting, and a wayfinding system. Policy 140: Include a new sidewalk and staircase ½ mile north of Zephyr Station on west side of 95. Policy 141: Incorporate wider trails for walkers and bikers especially along the bluff north of town. Policy 142: Add a pedestrian crossing south of Oasis to continue the path and bluff stairway to the River. Page 16 of 23

17 Policy 143: Incorporate more viewing areas with benches particularly looking north from the south bluff. Policy 144: Develop plans for increased public access to the river, including using the platted ends of street as public access points. Policy 145: City should buy Aiple Homestead north of town for a park. Policy 146: Integrate the Zephyr line into the parks and trails system. Policy 147: Adopt stricter ordinance/zoning to preserve the character of neighborhoods and natural areas such as the ravines and Brown s Creek. Policy 148: Explore possibility of developing recreational fields adjacent to Oasis Café (football field size). Policy 149: Water Street should be redefined as a walking street to form a stronger connection between Main Street and the River. Policy 150: Create multi-functional open spaces within the and Riverfront. Define more opportunities for pocket parks, green space, and outdoor cafes to activate street level. Policy 151: Improve and highlight connections to Mulberry Ravine Trail. Policy 152: Private land between south side of Pioneer Park and Mills condos should be considered for purchase by City added to Pioneer Park if sold, not redeveloped to negative impact on Pioneer Park. Goal 32. Protect St. Croix River open spaces areas from inappropriate development and create areas for public access and use of riverfront. Policy 153: The development of private sector recreation facilities in appropriate locations shall be encouraged. IV. Local Economy A. Goal 33. Increase the tax base and provide opportunities for economic growth for Stillwater and Stillwater area residents. Policy 154: Designate land for commercial and industrial uses properly located with adequate support of services to accommodate future forecast and anticipated economic development. Policy 155: Support business expansion in the downtown commercial district and the West Stillwater Business Park area and Liberty Village. Page 17 of 23

18 Policy 156: Actively promote the research and development park along TH 36 east of CR15. Policy 157: Protect the City s industrial land base for industrial development. Policy 158: Assist local business growth and expansion in the community. Policy 159: Work with local and regional economic development interest to promote local economic development. Policy 160: Use tax increment financing to assist major new investment downtown and in the Stillwater West Business Park. B. Tourism Goal 34. Promote tourism as a major City industry consistent with retaining Stillwater s unique natural resources, and historic and architectural character. Policy 161: Support tourism as a major City industry by attracting visitors and shoppers to the. Policy 162: Support public improvements and a high level of maintenance that enhances the attractiveness of. Policy 163: Support year-long activities that enliven the public and cultural life. Policy 164: Continue to use design review guidelines and process to ensure new development and renovation is consistent with the historic character of. Policy 165: Consider establishing incentive programs for rehabilitation and upkeep of older buildings. Policy 166: Construct a new public parking facility for employees and visitors. Policy 167: Support the Parking Commission as advisory group for managing parking. Policy 168: Support actions of the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce in promoting activities and improvements. V. Housing Goal 35. Provide a quality living environment for the citizens of Stillwater by maintaining and improving the City s existing housing stock and by planning for a range of new housing opportunities. Page 18 of 23

19 Goal 36. Continue to maintain a variety of housing types, styles, densities and choices to meet the life cycle housing needs of residents. Policy 169: Maintain a balance in the types, quantities, densities and affordability levels of housing units available throughout the community including continued single-family growth and new opportunities for multiple family and senior developments. Policy 170: Support efforts of Washington County Housing and Redevelopment Agency in providing assisted housing at appropriate locations as needed. Policy 171: Locate assisted and affordable housing near transit opportunities, public parks, jobs corridors and services. Policy 172: Participate in and promote Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and all other non-profit programs that provide housing assistance and rehabilitation programs. Policy 173: The City shall seek cooperation from local lending institution for financing improvements to historical structures. Policy 174: Ensure through the development design review process that all new housing and rehabilitated housing adheres to the highest possible standards of planning, design and construction. Policy 175: Work with local lenders, Washington County, HRA, MNHFA and other housing agencies to provide a comprehensive housing assistance strategy for households needing assistance. Policy 176: Explore using TIF and other funds to provide housing rehabilitation grants to very low and low income senior owner occupied housing needing rehabilitation assistance. Policy 177: Create incentive programs to maintain and rehabilitate historic homes in an effort to limit teardowns and reconstruction. Goal 37. Encourage housing to create a critical mass of residents that live within walking distance of Main Street to support a mix of community and destination retail. a. Promote the attraction of Stillwater with its unique set of amenities in the marketplace, which will support demand for additional development, particularly the pent up need for market rate rental apartments. VI. Natural Resource Protection Goal 38. Preserve, protect and restore environmental and natural resource systems from the impacts of future growth and development activities. Page 19 of 23

20 Policy 178: Protect or preserve the following environmentally sensitive features as undeveloped open space, to the extent possible with the reasonable utilization of land, and in accordance and cooperation with the applicable state, federal and local regulations. a. ravine areas, shorelands and blufflands to prevent site erosion, sedimentation of streams and provide a natural separation. b. Large trees and tree stands as amenities to the community and neighborhood. c. Encourage natural drainage systems (such as pervious surfaces) to maintain the natural character of ravines and waterways. d. Shorelands of all lakes and rivers within the City. e. State and federal threatened and endangered animals and plants, as well as their habitats, as identified on federal and/or state lists. f. Key scenic corridors and viewsheds. g. Wetlands and wetland buffer areas. h. Jackson Wildlife Management Area. Policy 179: The City shall allow limited controlled public access to sensitive habitats areas or areas that could be impacted by public access. Policy 180: Inventory all ravines and remanent lands in the City and develop a policy regarding purchase or protection of those lands. Policy 181: Require site specific design review when called for to protect sensitive natural resources. Policy 182: Require landscape plans and forest management plans for wooded areas in the annexation area. Policy 183: Develop ordinances to protect wetlands, woodlands and other natural features. Policy 184: Implement existing environmental protection ordinances as a part of specific plan preparation and subdivision or PUD review. Goal 39. Provide opportunities for enjoyment of natural resources within all areas of the community. Policy 185: Scenic roadways shall be enhanced and protected as routes leading from rural to urban areas. Policy 186: Require special landscaping of all scenic routes through the annexation area. Policy 187: Coordinate scenic route improvements with public roadway improvements and through the development review process for private or developer constructed roadways. Page 20 of 23

21 VII. Historic Resources Goal 40. Safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving historic properties which reflect Stillwater s cultural, social, economic, political, visual, aesthetic, or architectural history. Policy 188: Continue conducting historic preservation surveys based on the historic contexts to identify and evaluate the significance of all historic properties within the City limits. Policy 189: The plan for preserving Stillwater s historic resources will be developed in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior s Standards for Preservation Planning. Policy 190: Enhance the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and attraction of Stillwater. Policy 191: The City will continue to review site alteration permits for the commercial historic district, the plan area, and such other locally designated districts and properties in order to assure the preservation and restoration of historic properties. Goal 41. Develop and locate new roads sensitive to historic structures and sites and natural features. Goal 42. Protect and enhance the City s appeal and attraction to residents, visitors, and tourists using historic properties as a support and stimulus to business and industry. Policy 192: The City will develop new standards for public improvement projects (i.e., streets, sidewalks, lights, utilities, etc.) which will be sensitive to historic neighborhoods. Policy 193: Strive to prevent the destruction of historic building and incompatible remodeling. Policy 194: Maintain the unique qualities and architectural flavor of and of the west side residential areas. Goal 43. Foster civic pride in the beauty and notable accomplishments of the past educating the community of the City s history. Policy 195: The Heritage Preservation Commission will work to educate the community at large on the cultural values and economic benefits of historical preservation. Page 21 of 23

22 Policy 196: The City and other citizen advisory groups will coordinate local efforts to preserve and protect cultural, natural, and historic resources in the community. Goal 44. Promote the preservation and continued use of historic properties for the education and general welfare and promotion of Stillwater. Policy 197: Encourage the preservation, restoration and reuse of historic buildings. VIII. Public Facilities and Services Goal 45. Efficiently provide quality City utility services at a reasonable cost. Goal 46. Make sure there is adequate supply or capacity of service to accommodate future development. Policy 198: Plan for the phased expansion of public services and facilities consistent with the growth and expansion of the annexation area. Policy 199: Extend City water and sewer services to all areas of the City (with the exception of the residential area north of TH 96). Policy 200: Coordinate the provision of urban services: water, sewer, storm sewer policy, police and fire protection with adjacent local governments to provide more efficient services and save costs. Goal 47. Develop water resource conservation measures to preserve the Jordan aquifer as the City s only long-tern source of water. Goal 48. Provide new facilities that meet the needs of Stillwater residents first. Allow other units of government; school district, Washington County or joint powers groups to serve broader area-wide populations. Policy 201: Review city-wide needs for City facilities maintenance and new construction improvement and program those improvements in a capital improvements program. Policy 202: Coordinate public facility improvements with preparation of neighborhood plans, i.e., special streetscapes, neighborhood parks, sidewalk or trail improvements. Policy 203: Work with school district to plan for future school facilities while maximizing the use of existing facilities by sharing those facilities. Page 22 of 23

23 Policy 204: Ensure fire and police facilities are strategically placed throughout the City to provide high quality, consistent emergency response to all citizens. Policy 205: Explore needs and options for new activity facilities meeting the needs of all population groups including a senior activity center and teen center. Policy 206: Continue to coordinate orderly annexation and extension of municipal urban services with comprehensive plan proposed land use. Policy 207: Extend City utility services in the annexation area in ways that do not eliminate long-term options for future use. Page 23 of 23