These standards are intended to create a connected open space corridor system between neighborhoods and commercial areas within the county.
(A) Purpose. The specific purposes of this section include:
(1) Promoting walkability through additional open space corridors;
(2) Preserve areas which allow for pedestrian access to the surrounding area;
(3) Provide a buffer between residential and commercial uses; and
(4) Providing better pedestrian routes to schools, parks and commercial areas.
Figure 155.270-1: Town Center Open Space Corridor Plan |
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(B) Open space plan. An open space plan shall be provided as part of a preliminary subdivision plat application. The open space plan must address landscaping and pedestrian circulation in the open space areas identified in the town center open space corridor plan (see Figure 155.270-1 above) and shall meet the following requirements.
(1) Trails.
(a) Trails shall be placed in open space corridors to provide pedestrian access to schools, parks, residential and commercial areas as part of the overall pedestrian network.
(b) Trails shall be maintained by private owners’ associations.
(2) Landscaping; landscape treatments and embellishments. Landscaping shall be installed in such a way that it enhances the built environment and creates an aesthetically pleasing open area.
(a) Street trees and landscape elements. Drought-tolerant species that will be large at maturity shall be installed at least every 200 feet along the open space corridors.
(b) Street furnishings.
1. Street furnishings such as benches, small play or exercise apparatus shall be installed in the open space corridor.
2. Furnishings should be placed in safe, comfortable places and should take advantage of key notes, plazas and views into and out of the site.
(c) Xeriscape landscape. Xeriscape landscaping areas with the use of native and drought-tolerant plant species provides improved aesthetics in Town Center Zone. A minimum of 25% of the required open space area that is improved must be xeriscaped.
(d) Alternatives. Requests for alternative open space corridor standards will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must require recommendations from the reviewing departments and Planning Commission and approval by the County Commission.
(Prior Code, § 8-5K-6) (Ord. 18-06, passed 8-7-2018)