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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSpecial 2013-07-30 Index 6C - Southcenter Element - Strikeout/Underline VersionTUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SOUTHCENTER - CENTER PURPOSE, Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- TUKWILA' S URBAN Tukwila's Southcenter area is intended to develop as a high- density, regionally oriented, mixed -use center. In 1995, the Southcenter area was designated as a regional growth center under the Puget Sound Regional Council's (PSRC) Vision 2040, and as an urban center under the King County Countywide Planning Policies. The vision for Southcenter is consistent with both documents. Urban centers are described in King County's.the Countywide Planning Policies as areas of concentrated employment and housing, with direct service by high - capacity transit. They are to encompass a wide range of land uses, including retail, recreational, public facilities, parks, residential, and open space. They encourage the growth of each urban center as a unique, vibrant community that is attractive to live and work. Centers should support efficient public services including transit, and respond to local needs and markets for jobs and housing. In Vision 2040, regional growth centers are intended to be compact areas of high- intensity residential and employment development, with a mix of land uses including housing, jobs, recreation and shopping. The designation of regional growth centers is a key element of the regional strategy to preserve resource lands and protect rural lands from urban -type development by promoting infill and redevelopment within urban areas to create more compact, walkable, sustainable and transit - friendly communities. In 1995 The Tukwila's uUrban cCenter (TUC), Southcenter., was designated one of the region's urban centers, in keeping with a desire for development as a high density, regionally oriented, mixed use center. The vision for Southcenter is consistent with Puget Sound Regional Council's Vision 2040, the Under tThiese strategyies direct the majority of the region's employment and housing growth is- targete€l -to - • ... . • . _ . _ . _ = urban centers in the form of. Tukwila is a compact, sustainable communitiesy where housing and jobs are located in a manner that provides for easy mobility and accessibility. Comment [LM1]: Rebranding of Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) as "Southcenter" area. Comment [LM2]: Edited for clarity & readability. Shortened. Updated the discussions on King County Countywide Planning policies and Vision 2040. Draft, November 2011 1 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center Planning for a regional uUrban centers as defined by the Countywide Planning Policies -arns preferential treatment are also given priority by the transit providers for fixed -rail transit service and other transit service and facility improvements. The idea is to help ensure the long -term economic viability and competitiveness of urban centers in the region as energy costs escalate, congestion increases and consumer preferences shift. Tukwila is also designated as a Core City under Vision 2040. Core cities are major cities with regionally designated growth centers. They are intended to accommodate a significant share of future growth, contain key hubs for the region's long -range multimodal transportation system, and are major civic, cultural and employment centers within their counties. In 2002, the CityTukwila began a planning process to creating an urban center plan for the implement the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter area. A primary focus of tThe Plan wasfocused on retaining the TUC's urban center's competitive edge and economic strength as retail developmentcenter growsth within the region. At that time, the City recognized that an urban center of regional significance creates benefits for all of Tukwila. The City held six Ppublic workshops and found that participants supported the following eeneeptaideas: 1) Making the TUC Southcenter area a more attractive destination for shopping and leisure activities; 2) Relieving critical congestion points, improving circulation, and making alternative modes of transportation available; 3) Supporting existing businesses and attracting new; and, 4) Creating opportunities for residential development in appropriate areas. It was proposed that an initial catalyst of pPublic investment in key areas levcragcwill support progress towards theis community's vision of enhanced and diversified economic vitality. The Southcenter element policies set forth in this Comprehensive Plan element support and expander the qualities of the existing center that have been responsible for itsgenerated its economic success_ in the past, and expand on these characteristics. • Land use polices focus onare flexibil;d to support diverseity-ef uses. • Urban design policies provide aimplement the community's vision for the community, to be achieved through public and private sector initiative and cooperation. • Site and streetscapeTransportation and circulation policies emphasize accessibility as a key factor, as well as choice in transportation modes and routes. These policies will reinforce future competitiveness and will create an urban center that gives identity to the City for the surrounding neighborhoods and for the region. 2 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Comment [LM3]: Links to the Strategic Plan around the goal of a diverse & regionally competitive economy. TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ISSUES Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- The Tukwila Urban Centerarea comprising Southcenter currently provides regional comparison shopping, major discount shopping, major facilities for incubator businesses, entertainment, and a full range of professional services. It encompasses includesemefe intensely developed areas such as Westfield Shoppingteuul-Southcenter Mall and Andover Industrial Park, transportation facilities such as the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station, and natural features and amenities such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond, and the Green River._ Retail uses dominate the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter; Westfield Shoppingtown Southcenter Mall, in the northwest corner of the center, is the largest regional shopping mall in the Seattle area. Warehouse uses are more prominent in the extended planning area to the south._ A goal of growth management is to integrate housing, and job growth, and services in order to reduce the need for long commutes, and to keep living and working communities easily accessible to each other. As a significant employment center, Southcenter alread .. ' . _ .... , providesing jobs to residents and nearby communities. However, considerable residential development is needed in the urban center to meet the City's housing targets. Consequently The vision for Southcenter includes expandediig opportunities for housing, accommodating the majority of the City's projected housing needs, and addressing the types of amenities and infrastructure needed to attract quality housing and create a connected, dynamic urban environment. The Tukwila Urban Center vision for Southcenter takes into account the King County Countywide Planning Policies criteria for urban centers and has been formulated by recognizing that "the intent of the Countywide Planning Policies is to encourage the growth of each urban center as a unique, vibrant community that is an attractive place to live and work, will support efficient public services including transit, and responds to local needs and markets for jobs and housing" (King County Ordinance No. 1 l'116, Section D2, lines 25 28). The goals and policies of this element recognize that the TUCSouthcenter's path- ferfuture of higher - density growth will take place during and beyond the 20 -year horizon of the Countywide Policies. While these urban centers play an integral role in the regional vision, the Countywide Policies clearly delineate that require the form and function of these centers wi-llto be determined at the local level. The characteristics of the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter are compared on the next page (Figure 22) with the King County Countywide Planning Policies in Figure 22 and the Puget Sound Regional Council's Vision 2020 Plan.1 Comment [LM4]: Moved some of this to the Purpose section. Comment [LM5]: Moved to new background report. This section probably holds little interest for the average reader. Draft, November 2011 3 { Formatted: Font: 12 pt l Formatted: Body Textl,b TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center Policica Urban Ccntcr Criteria 4 4 6 Planned for 20 years Total land area of up to 1.5 square miles (14'10 acres) Requires 15,000 employees within one half mile (walking distance) of a transit center Average of 50 employees per gross acre Average of 15 households per gross acre motorized modes, while lessening dependency on single occupancy vehicles Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter planned for 30+ years Proposed Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter area is approximately 1.35 square miles The area is planned to allow this density. The Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter is planned to allow this density. areas are planned to allow residential uses, particularly in the area within walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station and the bus transit center. Strong motorized and non motorized connections are planned between the TUC urban center and the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station. Enhanced bus transit facilities scrvoaro anticipated in proximity to the TUC urban - Additional potential forms of high capacity transit (HCT) directly serving the TUC Southcenter include_ bus rapid transit (BRT), a local area transit routes, and future phases of enhanced_strectscapes, will improve auto, transit, bicycle and_pedestrian movement and access. An enhanced street network will improve mobility. Facilities developed will recognize the actual and projected need and demand for motor vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, and transit 4 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b, Left Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b l Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter Tukwila's Urban Centel,- facilities. Promotion of high caliber urban design standards and support for capital public Design standards and high quality public/ attracting the types of development that will achieve the vision for the TUCSouthcenter. Receives first priority for development of high capacity transit center and regionally funded support infrastructure A Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station and a bus transit center is located in the TUCSouthcenter. Ensuring that additional_high capacity transit facilities serve involvement in regional planning processes. • Receives other funding and streamlined ViaExplore a SEPA planned action or infill development exception for the TUCSouthcenter areaPlan. • Figure 22 Countywide policies compared to Southcentcr, Tukwila's Uurban Ccenter Formatted: Font: 12 pt l Formatted: Body Textl,b Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Body Textl,b l Formatted: Font: 12 pt l Formatted: Body Textl,b -[ Formatted: Body Textl,b Draft, November 2011 5 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center VISION STATEMENT The vision for Southcenter's next 30-50 years foresees: • -a-a high- density area with regional employment, • walkable, as well as auto - oriented shopping and entertainment districts • -areas of high quality housing near water amenities and within walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station and the new bus transit center, and • - recreational opportunities for business people, residents, and visitors. Su 6 ort for interlinked transit and a . edestrian s stem to su �6 lement an improved road network are included in the future; as well as sensitively enhancing the accessibility to the City's natural amenities, such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond, and the Green River. Southcenter, The Tukwila's existing Tukwila Uurban cCenter, is an economically vibrant, motor vehicle oriented aroma. It owes much of its success to a high level of regional accessibility and efficient local access roads, and in the past, a lack of competition within the region, as well as the 30+ year vision and vigor of its development community. The land use, design and transportation pis- policies of the TUC Southcenter Plan focus on what it takes to keeping the area's successful economic engine running., and t To make Southcenter more competitive and attractive over the long termer the Plan aims to transitioni+g Southcenter the - TUC into a great place for working, shopping, doing business, living ander playing. Great places contribute to the well -being of people and communities. An area made up of great places will continue to attract people and their expenditures maintain economic vitality. These attracted expendituresEconomic success, in turn, provides the City of Tukwila the fiscal means to continue providing our community with excellent public services and improvements. Southcenter, Tukwila's urban center, is currently an economically vibrant, motor vehicle oriented area. It owes much of its success to a high level of regional accessibility and in the past, a lack of competition within the region, as well as the 30+ year vision and vigor of its development community. The vision for the Tukwila Urban Center'sSouthcentor's next 30 50 years future foresees a high density area with regional employment, walkable as well as auto oriented shopping and entertainment districts, ar as of high quality housing in concert withn ar water amenities and within walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station and the new bus transit center, chopping, and recreational opportunities for business people, residents, and visitors. Support for interlinked transit and a pedestrian system to supplement an improved road system network are included in the future; as well as is the sensitively treatment ofenhancing the accessibility to the City's natural resourcesamenities, such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond, and the Green River. Achieving thiathe long -range future vision of an economically and environmentally sustainable community is anticipated to be a gradual process. It should be pursuedaehieved by reinforcing the 6 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Comment [LM6]: This section is reorganized to place the "vision statement" text up front for the reader. Also edited for clarity & readability. TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- Tukwila Urban Center'aSouthcenter's strengths and increasing its overall attractiveness through a combination of public and private investment. This would support both new and existing businesses and the continuation of market - sensitive transitions. Notable future features of the Southcenter Subarea Plan that will implement the Vision include: • Improved connection between Westfield Shoppingtown Southcenter Mall and Tukwila Pond Park. • A core area of high quality, walkable retail, entertainment, housing, public spaces and employment creating a memorable destination within the region. • Anchor areas linked by frequent transit service (5 to 10 minute busses or shuttles), enhanced with public and private pedestrian facilities, and development standards supporting this type of built environment._ • High - quality transit and pedestrian facilities, focusing on creating strong connections between the TUC corcMall and the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station. • Overall improvements to the network of streets, trails, sidewalks, and other infrastructure. • Encouragement of a pedestrian- oriented environment through building and streetscape design featureastandards and guidelines. ❑ Sub - districts differentiated through uses and development standards.Awareness of the needs of existing businesses while facilitating the area's market sensitive transitions. Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter's Boundaries Northern_ -_— Properties south of Interstate 405 Southern - —180th Street with someSouthem property lines of properties on south side of the street180th Street Eastern_ _ —The center of the Green River between 180th Street and the southern boundary of properties which abut the south side of the Strander Boulevard alignment, thence eastward to the City limits. Western-----Toe of west valley wall Draft, November 2011 7 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center Transit' Oriented trelopment ,f1L 4h.. 8 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2008November 2011 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- Figure 223 — Tukwila's uVrban Ecenter ( ESouthcenter) boundaries GOALS AND POLICIES The following goals, policies, and strategies reflect the established vision of the Tukwila Urban Centerfor Southcenter. These policies will help achieve the desired form and function of the Tukwila's Uurban Ecenter over the 30 to 50 -year planning period. These goals and policies cover the issues of land use, urban development, and transportation and circulation. They aim to support development and protection of the long -term economic and environmental sustainability< of the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter by creatfostering an attractive and functional environment to live and recreate, as well asthat retains its reputation as a good place to work, shop, live,and do business, and enjoy recreation. Goal 10.1 Land Use The Tuhvila Urban CenterSouthcenter will contain an intense, diverse mix of uses, which will evolve over time. The character and pace of this evolution change will have bccnbe set by a combination of guidelines, regulations, incentives, market conditions, and proactive private /public actions which will reinforce existing strengths and open new opportunities, and t The desire for a high quality environment for workers, visitors, and residents will also drive this character transition. Land Use Policies 10.1.1 [Southcenter Character. (Recognize the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter as a regional commercial /industrial area, with opportunities for sigh quality, mixed use transit oriented development, including housin . ; - ' : • ' served b y a balance of auto, pedestrian, bicycle and transit facilities. (Figures 234 and 245) IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY ■ Coordinate land use with City facility improvements, for transportation facilities such as transit facilities and structured parking easily accessed by service streets and Comment [LM7]: Revised to improve clarity. Comment [LM8]: Added a heading for consistency with other policies. Comment [LM9]: Added to reflect goals & policy direction of King County Countywide Planning Policies & Vision 2040 re: urban centers. Draft, November 2011 9 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center Figure 2341— EnvisionedTukwila Urban Center high - density development in Southcenter Figure 2J4 Tukwila Urban CcntcrEnvisioned medium - density development in Southcenter 10.1.2 (Public and Private Investment. Public and private investment shall be aimed at facilitatmge and encouraginge overall growth and redevelopment in the Tukwila Urban CcntcrSouthcenter. 10.1.3 Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) "Districts." The TUCSouthcenter encompasses a relatively large area containing a wide variety of uses. To create a more coherent urban form and enhance the Center's long -term competitive edge within the region„ this Plan seeks to guide development and change to create ICiistinct areas, or districtsl,_where the character, forms, types of uses and activities benefit, complement, and support each other. I10.1.� Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) Residential Uses. To preserve our existing residential neighborhoods, a large percentage of the City's future housing needs will be accommodated in the urban center. Residential development is encouraged in proximity 10 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Comment [LM10]: Added many new graphics that better illustrate recommended goals & policies. Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman j Comment [LM11]: Added heading for consistency with other policies. Comment [LM12]: Refined existing policy re: districts. Comment [LM13]: Relocated from below. Expanded to explain why additional space is needed for residential uses. TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- to water amenities or within walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station or the bus transit center, subject to design standards and incentives. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ❑ Public Amenities Plan. ❑ (Development regulations that allow appropriatecufficient building heights within each districtto implement the Plan. • Design guidelines that promote a high - quality urban environment and facilitate a range of pedestrian activity, where appropriate. ■ Public /private environment investment. • Coordinate Ttransit service and station improvements, as co rdinated with transit providers. • Business leader /community member involvement in district development. • Utilize flexible zoning regulations to allow uses including residential, retail and light industrial, where appropriate for each district's purpose. • Expand the areas where residential uses are permitted.- ■ Developer regulations to address setback and lot coverage restrictions that allow for future street expansions, new streets and other circulation improvements. • DesignBoard of Architectural Review standards to enforce quality landscape and design. • Standards for screening and mitigating truck loading, service area, and outdoor storage in front yard setback or within view of the primary public street. • ':.tea .. City's future housing needs will be accommodated in the urban center in order to proximity to water amenities_ or within walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station or the bus transit center, subject to special design standards and incentives. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY • Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond and Green River areas, through a variety of regulatory measures and incentives, should provide opportunities for residential development. • Develop standards and incentives for providing a variety of different types of open spaces (e.g., plazas, parks, public & private) that are used to attract further Comment [LM14]: Strategy revised to support district concept. Comment [LM15]: In most cases, where an implementation strategy is deleted, it has been accomplished or achieved. Comment [LM16]: Relocated above. Draft, November 2011 �11 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center residential development and, as the area intensifies, balances out the increasingly dense environment'. • Use access to transit facilities and amenities to instigate stimulate surrounding residential and mixed use development. Goal 10.2 Urban Development The northern portion of the Southcenter area will contain a central focus area.Encouragc and Throughout withSouthcenter, the natural and built environments that are attractive, functional, environmentally sustainable, and distinctive, and supports a range of mixed uses promoting business, shopping, recreation, entertainment, and residential opportunities. Urban Development Policies 10.2.1 Natural Environment. Recognize, protect, and enhance the open space network by augmenting existing parks, enhancing access to passive and active recreation areas such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond and the Green River; and by improving air and water quality and preserving natural resources; thereby effectively integrating the natural and built environments in the Tukwila Urban 1CenterSouthcenter. In addition, recognize that open space amenities are attractors for a wide range of uses, including housing and office (Figure 25).1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Guidelines and incentives for providing open space • Seek opportunities for Ppublic /private partnerships • During review of proposed public and private projects:- - •— Promote Uuse of indigenous plant materials - •— Promote Uuse of water - saving plant materials - ■— Promote Uuse of plant materials with wildlife habitat value • Implement the Master Plan and Wwater quality improvement program for Tukwila Pond Ppark • (Coordinate with Tukwila's Parks and Recreation Department to ensure that the Southcenter area's parks and open space concepts are integrated into the Parks Plan. 12 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2008November 2011 Comment [LM17]: New. Currently, we don't have well- developed standards & incentives. Comment [LM18]: Relocated. Instigate carries negative connotations. Comment [LM19]: Revised to increase consistency with the structure of other goals, and improve clarity and readability. Comment [LM20]: Reflects regional goals & policies Comment [LM21]: Added reference to Figure. Comment [LM22]: Moved from original 10.2.9 Comment [LM23]: In other elements we are consolidating the implementation strategies for each goal at the end of the policies. There are so many here that it may be confusing to have a long list at the end separated from the policies. So, keep these as is. TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- Figure 25 — Envisioned Southcenter open space amenity 10.2.2 Creen River. In conjunction with the City's Shoreline Master Program and flood River's visual and physical accessibility for residents, workers, businesses and civic life. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES Develop a vegetation Plan for the mid slope bench of the levee that ensures view corridors are maintained at appropriate intervals when sections of the levee are set profile. Develop a plan that ensures that the potential public access points at street ends occurs in Southcenter. 10.2.322 Streets, Streetscape, and Pedestrian Environmenti. Create a "complete street" network that establishes a finer grained street grid, reflects the demand and need for motor vehicles, transit, pedestrians, and bicyclists; and provides a safe, convenient, attractive, and comfortable pedestrian and bicycling environment. Ensure that street design that eliminates potential conflicts,, -and promotes safety for all modes of travel maintains emergency services response capabilities'. rReinforces the different functions of streets by creating distinct identities for major rights -of -way. (Figure 26) IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • A system of public and private service streets, cCoordinated with the City Public Works Department to create a Street MasterNetwork Plan Ar -athat establishes a finer grained system of public and private streets for the Southcenter area and requires development to share in the cost of providing new streets. Comment [LM24]: Deleted. Covered in Shoreline Element under 5.3.7, Goal 5.6 & related policies Comment [LM25]: Planting and maintenance of vegetation in buffer area with regards to maintaining views of river is already included in the shoreline master program regulations, Section 9.10.C.1.1 and under same subsection, D.1 Vegetation management. Comment [LM26]: Deleted. Covered under Shoreline Element Goal 5.6 Access & Recreational Use, & related policies Comment [LM27]: Reworded to improve clarity and readability. Also supports the approach the City is taking towards implementing "complete streets" concepts. Comment [LM28]: Requested addition by Fire Dept. Draft, November 2011 113 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center • Identify and eBmploy mechanisms and incentives by which a finer grid system and public frontage improvements can be implemented by the Street MestefNetwork Plana • 'Coordinate with the Public Works Department to prepare an access management plan for the Southcenter area which requires the consolidation of Ddriveways and access points consolidation, wherever possible, Jse Ddevelopment regulations to maximize visibility at intersections for safety • Develop Sstreetscape design standards that reflect distinct street type, identity, mode of transportation served, and design goal f— Update the Street Tree Plan for the Southcenter area (CBD) • Seek additional funding for construction of the pedestrian bridge over the Green River, connecting the Mall to the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station. • 'Continue working with Sound Transit, the City of Renton, and the Union Pacific and BNSF Burlington Northern Railroads to fund and complete the Strander Boulevard connection between the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak Station and the City of Tukwila, including the pedestrian -only underpass beneath the Union Pacific lines. • Coordinate with land use planning efforts to ensure that improvements in the transportation and circulation system are parallel with projected growth in the Tukwila Urban Center. • Develop a Southcenter Streetscape Improvement Plan with distinct identities for major streets and strategies for pedestrian- oriented improvements and linkages such as new pathways, arcades, awnings, sidewalk eating areas, and special displays. sack of sidewalk sidewalk planting scrip I r— I 1 I 75' 6.5 11,0' parking bike travel lane I I I.0 G.0 73' travel lane blke parkin% {To be inserted) 14 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Comment [LM29]: Reworded to improve clarity and readability. Preparing a street master plan is the first step in establishing and implementing a finer grid system. Comment [LM30]: Access management is required where increasing walkabiity & bicycling is desired. Comment [LM31]: Repetitive Comment [LM32]: Support current & planned transportation & land use planning efforts. Comment [LM33]: Reworded to improve clarity and readability. TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- Public Frontage New thoroughfare cross - section Figure 26— Example of Tukwila Urban Centcrenvisioned Southcenter streetscape_ 10.2.343 'Site Development'. [Create regulations and design guidelines to -that result in high- quality site design and contribute to the creation of hospitableenjoyable and safe pedestrian environments, through the usmge of site design techniques that may include but are not be-limited to: — integratiermng-e€architectural, site design, and landscape elements; the co existence ofsupporting motor vehicle, transit service, and pedestrian traffic_ (Figure 27); — implementusing physical and natural elements that enhance an area's overall aesthetic, including orienting a building to the street orientation (Figures 2�d 28). extending-ef the street grid system [10.2.54 Siting and orientation of buildings and parking lots should create an environment that is conducive to walking in the northern part of the Southcenter area, particularly in the area between the Mall, the bus transit center and the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak station. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Over the short to midterm, focus public and private investments and regulations on properties fronting Baker Boulevard between the Mall and the Sounder station. 10.2.654 Require interior vehicular connection between adjacent parking areas wherever possible. 10.2.765 Development standards chouldshall consider the needs of land owners, developers, a-Rel- businesses, and the community. Figure 27 — Tulvila Urban Center Site development — pedestrian connections through parking lots connecting street edge to building entrances. Comment [LM34]: Reworded to improve clarity & readabililty. Comment [LM35]: Enhancing walkability in the N. part of the urban center as more intensive mixed use redevelopment occurs is key, particularly between the Mall and the Sounder Station, along Baker Blvd. Bringing buildings closer to back of sidewalk and limiting front parking assist with this. Creating safe pedestrian paths between sidewalk & building entrances through parking lots is also desired as this transition occurs. Formatted: Font: Times New Roman, 9 pt Formatted: Font: Times New Roman, 9 pt Draft, November 2011 115 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center Figure 28 — Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter site development — building orientation to street 10.2.876 Parking. Ensure an adequate supply of parking for visitors, employees, residents and customers. Provide a variety of flexible regulations, strategies and programs to meet parking demands. On -going needs shall also be assessed to ensure appropriateadequate parking requirements and to encourage efficient and effective use of land in parking design (Figure 29). IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Commission on going parking needs studies for parking standards and facilities 'Conduct a public parking structure feasibility study, including siting, potential funding sources and mechanisms.' • Allow the flexibility to exceed minimum parking standard:, • Investigate alternative parking strategies such as shared parking, transit tradeoffs, etc. • Look for opportunities for on- street parking in areas planned for higher pedestrian activity,_Tarticularly in the TOD District' • 'Develop appropriate standards and guidelines for parking design and layout to support the type of development envisioned in each of Southcenter's districts', 16 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Formatted: Font: Times New Roman, 9 pt, Italic Comment [LM36]: Economic feasibility study recommendation. Comment [LM37]: Buildings will be located closer to the back of sidewalk in this District, and can benefit from on- street parking. Comment [LM38]: To support the District concept TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN • Southcenter Tukwila's Urban Centel,- {}Figure 29 —_ Landscaping in parking areas Minimum requirements for trees and planters within parking lots and at the perimeter • Flactor Ppedestrian safety and convenience into parking lot design standards._ Require safe and direct pedestrian connections from sidewalks to building entrances. *Parking lot design standards that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for pedestrian connections from parking areas to structures, to streets, and between sites • — Continue Commute Trip Reduction Programs and other Transportation Demand Management Programs. 'Incorporate the Growth Transportation Efficiency Center (GTEC) into transportation and land use planning in Southcentetl 10.2.987 Building Design. Promote high quality, market feasible (architecture in the Tukwila U e;n*er;Southcenter, with attention to standards and guidelines that: Promote an appropriate display of scale and proportion; Give special attention to developing pedestrian - oriented features and streetfront activity areas such as ground floor windows, modulated building facades, and rich details in material and signage; Provide quality landscape treatment; - Provide an appropriate relationship to adjacent sites and features and; _e Encourage overall building quality, and sensitivity to, and respect for, the area's important natural amenitiesfeaturea such as the Green River and Tukwila Pond. - Include property owners in developing urban design guidelines to ensure that the intent of this policy is met. Formatted: Font: (Default) Anal, 13.5 pt, Font color: Blue Formatted: Font: Times New Roman Comment [LM39]: Combined two implementation strategies. Comment [LM40]: Important for expanding City's efforts to reduce drive -along trips, particularly to and from the urban center. [Comment [LM41]: Deleted - confusing Draft, November 2011 117 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Encourage programs for open space and other public amenities (Figure 30) Comment [LM42]: Transportation studies recommendation. Comment [LM43]: Moved to where parks and open space goals will be consolidated. Comment [LM44]: Moved these first 3 bullet pts to wherever parks and open space goals will be consolidated. Comment [LM45]: Moved to implementation strategy bullet under 10.2.1. Natural Environment Comment [LM46]: Moved this bullet to wherever parks and open space goals will be consolidated. TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center 10.2.4498 Signage. [Develop a directional sign program to aid pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists in wayfinding through Southcenter. [ ntification of businesses and directions, and signage that complements the design of the structure or facility; unobtrusive signage should contribute visual consistency at street level and for passing motorists, and promote high quality retailing and business development appropriate to "concentrated" mixed use areas within the Tukwila Urban Center. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Identify appropriate design guidelines and locations for directional signage for shopping, access to amenities and leisure activities, in order to alleviate congestion in key corridors and intersections 10.2.119 Parks, Open Space, and Public Amenities. Support plans, policies, projects, and programs to expand and improve the parks, open space, and other amenities in the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter and seek opportunities to develop new facilities that enhance the overall experience of employees, residents, business owners, and visitors. • [Design guidelines that ensure that uses and structures adjacent to parks recognize and complement open spaces and public amenities • to sunlight, a sense of security, seating, landscaping, accessibility, and connections to surrounding uses and activities, • Develop strategies for public private partnerships that will result in public open spaces to serve as focal points and settings for special events and activitie ■ Coordinate with Tukwila's Parks and Recreation Department to ensure that Southcentor's parks and open space needs are integrated into the Parks Plan. {To be inserted) Figure 30 10.2.1209! .. :•.• ETukwila Urban Centernvisioncd Southcenter open space amenity districtexpanding the range of allowable uses, developing design guidelines, improving existing and providing new increasing amenities, adopting workable regulations, investing in public improvements; and proactively developing programs and incentives encouraging business owners and developers to invest in the quality of both the built and 18 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2n08November 2011 Comment [LM47]: Moved to Econ. Development element Section. 2.1.15 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- natural environment. Work collaboratively with Southcenter property owners, businesses, and community members to implement the vision for Southcenter, assess the potential to catalyze development in the Southcenter area, and form an economic redevelopment strategy.) IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ❑ Establish' a lead redevelopment entity on the public side to coordinate implementation of an urban center redevelopment strategy and provide it with people, resources and tools to succeed. • Rebrand urban center districts to take advantage of assets, location, and character, and reinforce land use concepts so that the image of Tukwila is refreshed. • Support public /private partnerships to enhance existing and future business activity in the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenterl • Improve infrastructure through the Capital Improvement Plan that reflects Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter policies • Create a public sector redevelopment tool kit that offers developers assistance in achieving the community's goals for the Southcenter area. • Prepare and implement a redevelopment strategy.' • Create distinctPeriodic review of development standards for each district1 economic development.Identify projects necessary to catalyze economic development and give them first priority for public investment Goal 10.3 Transportation and Circulation use and design policies and provides access for all transportation modes to, from, and within the center. 10.3.1 Regional Access. Promote transportation and transit services and facilities, as well as traffic management systems that increase and improve access to and from the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter for all transportation modes; encourage a range of solutions, including but not limited to local circulator systems, regional serving park n ride sites, systems. Comment [LM48]: New Policy Comment [LM49]: First 2 bullets added as requested by PC to rebrand SC Districts - also part of the economic development strategy outlined by ECONorthwest. Comment [LM50]: Moved to Econ Dev element Comment [LM51]: Economic feasibility study recommendations. Comment [LM52]: Redundant Comment [LM53]: Reworded to improve clarity and readability. Comment [LM54]: These are well covered by 13.2, 13.4 and new section on TDM so this section should be deleted as redundant. Draft, November 2011 119 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Implement alternative bus transit modes such as airport, hotel and rail station shuttles, and a local circulator service • Work with transit providers to develop and fund regional park `n' ride facilities where traffic and visual impacts on the Tukwila Urban Center are minimized through site design and management • Work with transit providers to coordinate regional and local rail and transit systems, including bus rapid transit, commuter rail, light rail and monorail, that directly serve the TUC urban center and facilitate access to alternative travel mode& • Develop, in conjunction with appropriate transit providers, additional transit facilities and routes in the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter • Continue working with Sound Transit, the City of Renton, and the Union Pacific and connection between the Sounder commuter rail /Amtrak Station and the City of Tukwila, including the pedestrian only underpass beneath the Union Pacific lines. network that serves all transportation needs, allows a range of travel route choices, and facilitates access within the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter for both motorized and IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Prepare and adopt Aa street and sidewalk system Master Plan • 'Coordinate with land use planning efforts to ensure that improvements in the transportation and circulation system are parallel with projected growth and desired mode split in the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcente4 • A Capital Improvement Plan that reflects Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenter policie& • Expansion of the street network • Street and utility rights of way retention Develop Aauxiliary pedestrian ways to link major activity area 20 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2008November 2011 Comment [LM55]: Moved to 10.2.3 Implementation Comment [LM56]: Moved to 10.2.3 Implementation Comment [LM57]: Covered by 13.5.7 Comment [LM58]: Covered by 13.1.9 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN South center, Tukwila's Urban Centel,- • Streetscape Improvement Plan with distinct identities for major streets and strategies for pedestrian oriented improvements and linkages such as new pathways, arcades, awnings, sidewalk eating areas, and special display:} • Conduct periodic traffic flow studies • Driveway and access point consolidation, whenever possible ■ Development of connector streets and service streets ■ as a viable mode of transportation • Additional signalized pedestrian crossings 10.3.3 Transit Service and Facilities. un an effort to provide the greatest benefit to employees, business people, shoppers, visitors, and residents of the Tukwila Urban CenterSouthcenteiu, promote the development and enhancement of transit service and facilities; coordinate with regional transit agencies to enhance existing and future bus and rail facilities}; ensure consistency in planning between land use and transportation to IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY • Work with regional transit providers to integrate the Tukwila Urban Center into the regional light rail network Figure 31 Tukwila Urban Center transit facility 10.3.1 Transportation Alternatives. Ensure that land use, urban design, and transportation and circulation actions for employees support and reinforce transportation alternatives, (TDM) programs, Rideshare programs, and related projects and programs (i.e. parking provisions for alternative transportation modes). IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Support for businesses in implementing the Commute Trip Reduction Program and related transportation demand management programs • Encourage alternative transportation modes • ing;'CL�TRT yanpools. 10.3.5 }Pedestrian Network. }Create a non motorized transportation network by exploring the use of railroad rights of way as pedestrian paths; utilizing public /private funds to from building entrances to the street.} Comment [LM59]: Moved to 10.2.3 Implementation Comment [LM60]: Delete this in favor of the transit section of the transportation element, 13.4. Comment [LM61]: Duplicates Transportation element policy Comment [LM62]: Delete this as it duplicates 13.4.10. and TDM goal. Comment [LM63]: Delete as this duplicates 13.5 non - motorized transportation, policies 13.1.9, 13.3 Comment [LM64]: Duplicates 13.2.3 Dec .,,tier 2008Draft, November 2011 �21 TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Southcenter, Tukwila's Urban Center IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES • Public /private funds to augmented the pedestrian network • Implement the recommendations in the Walk and Roll Plan A comprehensive pedestrian master plan with implementation strategies for both public and private development • Development standards to augment the public and private pedestrian network and • Require safe, direct pedestrian connections from sidewalks to building entrances 22 Z :IDCD n Clerk'sICC Comp Plan Bindersl6 c TUC SOUL_for CC review.docx December 2008November 2011 Comment [LM65]: Moved to 10.2.8