(A) Layout of lots in the subdivision contributes significantly to the form of the city in future years. Much of the character and function in any area is established by the configuration of lots and roads in the area. The proper layout of a subdivision should be measured against three elements.
(1) Circulation. The location of lots and streets should reflect the need to serve both local travel and through travel. Not every street can or should encourage both. The role of the subdivision in the overall vehicular movement system of the city area will be reflected in its street layout and design.
(2) Function. Activities which will occur on lots of a subdivision will also relate to the whole city community. Residents of homes should have reasonable access to neighborhood services such as stores, convenience services, schools, recreation, and to community services such as fire and police protection, major shopping or employment centers, utilities, cultural and religious center. Commercial, employment, and public areas need to be accessible to their occupants while relating to individual activities within the area.
(3) Livability. The location and layout of lots should be made with the user in mind. For example, a balance between open land areas and privacy of individual lots should be attempted. Irregular, useless pieces of land should be avoided. Pedestrian easements could be included to schools, shops, or parks.
(B) In any subdivision, the lots created and public improvements made should relate to community development guides. Street widths should conform to those established in the major thoroughfare plan. Land uses and the allowance for public facilities should conform to those in the city master plan, and must conform to those in the city zoning code.
(C) Subdivisions should be laid out with respect to design principles. Specifically, uses should be oriented to exterior or interior views, should minimize unnecessary automobile travel, should encourage internal pedestrian communication, should make maximum use of open space, and the like.
(1980 Code, § 151.35) (Ord. 3704, passed 6-5-1978)