East Village Plan by Caylen Payne

Apri l

Small Area Plan For

29th 2 0

The East Village Neighborhood Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Prepared for:

City of Cuyahoga Falls Department of Community Development 2310 Second Street Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 April, 29 2010

Table of Contents

Introduction 1) What is a small area plan? 2) The Planning Process 3) Vision Statement 4) Highlights of the Plan 5) Definitions 6) History of Cuyahoga Falls

State of the Neighborhood Summary 1) Zoning 2) Population Profile 3) Housing Profile 4) Economic Profile 5) Infrastructure 6) Environmental Profile Projects 1) Boulevard Concept for Munroe Falls Avenue 2) Mixed-Use Neighborhood Center Development 3) Live/Work Enclave at Bailey Road and Munroe Falls Avenue 4) Trails End Park Redevelopment 2

5) High Street Redevelopment 6) Home Improvement & Preservation Outline Development Plan 1) Physical Structure Elements 2) Social & Economic Initiatives 3) Development Management

What is a small area plan?

The small area plan works within the context of the city’s comprehensive plan, but allows for more detailed, neighborhood specific issues to be addressed. The purpose of the small area plan will be to guide new development, redevelopment of built-out areas, infrastructure improvements, zoning, policies to regulate neighborhood character and the creation of a vision and framework for the areas future.

Because of the plan will focus on individual neighborhoods, a high degree of input from residents is essential to a creating a plan that will effectively serve citizens’ wants and needs as the neighborhood evolves over the coming years.

To ensure that the small area plan effectively communicates the resident’s desire for their neighborhood, there are three unique requirements the plan must follow. •

The plan must carefully define the neighborhood, its boundaries, demographics, infrastructure, zoning, challenges and opportunities.

•

The plan must be created in the context of its larger setting including land uses, facilities, services, recreation space, circulation and visual form.

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The plan must be created and closely aligned with residents’ desires for the future development of the neighborhood.

Planning Process The planning process for the East Village small area plan was conducted over the course of four months from January to April of 2010. Planners for the East Village undertook a two month research period where a thorough understanding of the neighborhood’s history, demographics, housing, infrastructure zoning and previously-planned improvements was attained. The planners then presented their findings to residents of the neighborhood during the first day of a two-day charrette. On the second day, the planners met with the residents to answer questions about the presentation and lead them through a discussion to understand their wants, needs and expectations for their neighborhood in the future.

Using this information, the planners combined the residents’ input with sustainable design principles, policies, and physical elements to create a plan for the area’s future. The plan, once completed, was presented to the public for evaluation.

Vision Statement

The East Village is an established neighborhood within Cuyahoga Falls that holds genuine promise to become a modern, energetic and sustainable area with an authentic and unique sense of urban character. The neighborhood is a pleasant place to live, work, play and visit because of its mix of land uses, types of homes and residents and open space. The aim of the small area plan is to build on those existing assets to create an even safer, more comfortable, walkable, community-minded East Village neighborhood. To achieve this vision, the small area plan will seek to create a richer sense of community with a distinct physical and emotional character through: •

Pedestrian- and bike-friendly infrastructure improvements

•

Creation of urban-inspired, mixed-use, live-work neighborhood center

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Polices and tax abatements to encourage locally-owned businesses

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Incentives to increase owner-occupied housing

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Financial incentives to encourage rehabilitation and preservation of historic structures

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Improved open and recreation space, designed for a mix of uses for all ages

With these goals and policies in place, the East Village will be positioned to retain its longtime residents and entice a new generation of active, involved, community-minded urbanites. The plan will preserve and enhance historic features of the neighborhood while developing new amenities that will cultivate a sense of place all residents will be excited to call home. The project goals would be Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) certified to bolster their sustainability.

Highlights of the plan •

The reconstruction of Munroe Falls Avenue into a boulevard, extending from a new roundabout with Bailey Road to High Street 5

•

The creation of mixed-use corridor with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure along Munroe Falls Avenue, extending from Bailey Road to High Street

•

The creation of a live/work enclave north of Munroe Falls Avenue extending from Bailey Road to Talbot Street (which will be realigned with High Street and possibly renamed as such)

•

Redevelopment of Trails End Park with two regulation baseball diamonds and a formal green

•

Development of High Street into a “neighborhood spine.” It will connect the Sill Middle School site to Trails End Park and the new mixed-use neighborhood center

•

Financial incentives for preservation and rehabilitation of historic homes

Definitions Plan 1. A scheme or method of acting, doing, proceeding, making, etc., developed in advance. 2. A design or scheme of arrangement: an elaborate plan for seating guests. 3. A specific project or definite purpose

Sustainable Development 1. Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Zoning 1. Government (usually municipal) laws that control the use of land within a jurisdiction. Mixed-Use Development 1. The practice of allowing more than one type of use in a building or set of buildings. In planning zone terms, this can mean some combination of residential, commercial, industrial, office, institutional, or other land uses.

Walkable Development 1. The extent to which the built environment is friendly to the presence of people living, shopping, visiting, enjoying or spending time in an area. Factors affecting walkability include, but are not limited to: land use mix, street connectivity and residential density

Level of Service (LOS) 1. A measure used by traffic engineers to determine the effectiveness of elements of transportation infrastructure. The transportation LOS system uses the letters A through F, with A being best and F being worst.

Infrastructure 1. The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise, or the services and facilities necessary for an economy to function. The term typically refers to the technical structures that support a society, such as roads, water supply, sewers, power grids and telecommunications.

Brownfield 1. Abandoned or underused industrial and commercial sites that available for re-use. Expansion or redevelopment of such sites may be complicated by real or perceived environmental contaminations.

Historic Preservation 1. A professional endeavor that seeks to preserve, conserve and protect buildings, objects, landscapes or other artifacts of historic significance.

History of Cuyahoga Falls Cuyahoga Falls was founded in 1812, and was originally called Manchester. The Cuyahoga River runs both south and north through the City and the Cuyahoga "Falls", which extend for about 2 miles, fall farther than Niagara Falls. Due to the rough water, Native Americans who used the river to travel from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi left the river at the Falls and used what is now Portage Trail to continue their journey south. The river was an early source of power for mills and manufacturing, and by 1840 Cuyahoga Falls had a wider variety of manufacturing than any other Ohio settlement. The river now is a source of beauty, recreation and contemplation. In the place of the old Vaughn Machinery plant now stands the Cuyahoga Falls Sheraton Suites Hotel, with its Riverfront restaurant offering an unparalleled view of the Cuyahoga "Falls". Waterworks Park, home of the City's Family Aquatics Center, offers hiking, picnicking and biking along the River, and the 6,000 acres in the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area provide year-round outdoor opportunities for the people of Cuyahoga Falls and Northeast Ohio. While industry has moved away from the River, it has not moved away from Cuyahoga Falls. In fact, the City has enjoyed a steady economic growth pattern of residential, commercial, and industrial uses. The City enjoys a diversity of manufacturing and industrial uses of all sizes, and is in the process of developing almost 1,000 acres of industrial parks. Residential development, while most strongly focused on single family residential, similarly offers a wide variety of housing options for people of all ages and family sizes. The 1985 merger of the City of Cuyahoga Falls and Northampton Township, the first statutory merger of an incorporated and an unincorporated area in Ohio, in many ways shaped the future of the City into the 21st Century. The City almost tripled in geographic area, to approximately 27 square miles. The relatively rural character of the former township has added a balance to the more developed core of the old City. Twenty five years after the merger, the people of what was once two communities continue to move forward together to forge the Cuyahoga Falls of the future.

East Village Neighborhood: State of the Neighborhood Summary The State of the Neighborhood Report, presented to residents during the charrette, provides insight into the neighborhood’s present demographics, zoning, uses and infrastructure.

Current Zoning

Zone Type

Acres

% of total

E-1

12%

MU - 1

5.3

R-4

66.7

R-5

R-6

25.8

Total

133.5

68%

Parks

13.1

Former School

Residential

Edwin Shaw 9.5 Hospital

East Village Total

100%

193

Year

Population

1980

3,097

1990

2,639

2000

2,517

2014 Estimate

1,885

The current zoning allows for a mix of manufacturing, retail and housing types, including R-6, the highest density residential zone. As the map illustrates, the East Village is predominantly a residential area, the majority of which is R-4, a medium-density zone.

Demographic Profile Data from the 2000 U.S. Census

The population of the East Village has been on a steady decline since 1980 (population: 3,097) to 2000 (population: 2,517). From 2000-2009 there was a continued loss of residents by 16%. Between 2009-2014, the neighborhood is projected to see another reduction of population by 9.5%, down to a population of 1,885.

For 2000, the median family income for the East Village was $33,353. The income profile is broken down in the chart below. This was 37% below the city’s median as a whole, $52,372.

The median age has steadily been increasing in the East Village since 1980 when it was 28; however, the 2000 median age was 34, which indicates a steady increase in the ages of East Village residents. Additional demographic characteristics are listed below.

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Median age in 2000 was 34 (1980 – 28)

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45% of households are related families

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13% of households fall under the poverty line

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6% of residents are in the retired market segment

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13% of all residents have a college degree

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90% of population is white non-Hispanic

The majority of East Village Residents, 73%, are in white-collar professions. Some white-collar professions include professional services, sales & office, service and management.

Housing Profile The median year built for homes in the East Village was 1971. The neighborhood has a significant amount of historic homes with the potential to be renovated and placed on a historic register. There is also a large amount of Heslop post-WWII homes. These homes are older and significantly smaller than more modern starter homes, making these homes a challenge keep updated and owner-occupied. As a result, 65% of all housing in the neighborhood is renter-occupied, up 15% from 1980. In addition, little new growth has taken place. Within the neighborhood, the number of units has increased very modestly, up 160 from 1980-2000.

1980

1990

2000

Total housing Units

1,235

1,357

1,391

% owner Occupied

50%

39%

31%

% Renter Occupied

50%

60%

65%

% vacant

N/A

3.5%

Economic Profile The East Village neighborhood has a variety of business types within its boundaries, with the two largest being food service and manufacturing. The area is also home to a number of office and retail establishments. A list of prominent employers is also listed below.

Major Employment type Variables

East Village Neighborhood

ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICES

113 16

FINANCE & INSURANCE 31 HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL ASSISTANCE

MANUFACTURING

113

OTHER SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL SERVICES

RETAIL TRADE

102

WHOLESALE TRADE

Major neighborhood employers •

FALLS HEATING & COOLING INC

•

SYKES CONSTRUCTION CO

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CENTRAL WELDING & SUPPLY CO INC

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AMERICHEM INC (recent expansion)

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REIDY MEDICAL SUPPLY

•

TG REAL ESTATE LLC

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NIKIMOE CORP

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PENNSYLVANIA CRUSHER CORPORATION

Infrastructure

Infrastructure in the neighborhood, much like the housing, is aging. In many cases, infrastructure is in desperate need of repair. Several streets have been reconstructed, placing utilities and drainage underground, laying new sidewalks and curbs, adding small trees along the devil’s strip, and a new road surface. However, the majority of streets within the neighborhood have yet to be reconstructed. It is these streets which are continuing to deteriorate at an alarming rate.

Before Reconstruction

After Reconstruction

The Cuyahoga Falls Consolidated Plan outlines two planned infrastructure improvements: the reconstruction of Stone Street from Broadway East to Munroe Falls Avenue; and Germaine Street from Broadway East to Portage Trail. It is anticipated that the Stone Street project will be started during the 2010 fiscal year and will be completed during the 2011 fiscal year if funding remains constant. Plans for Germaine Street’s infrastructure upgrades are to be started during the 2012 fiscal year and are to be completed in the 2013 fiscal year.

Traffic conditions, however, are meeting demand for vehicles in the area. The Akron Metropolitan Area Transportation Study has concluded that all roads within the East Village neighborhood are operating at a level of service (LOS) of C or higher. LOS C describes stable operations; however, ability to maneuver and change lanes in midblock locations may be more restricted than in LOS B, and longer queues, adverse signal coordination, or both may contribute to lower average travel speeds of about 50 percent of the average free-flow peed for the street class.

Environmental Profile

The East Village neighborhood has very few environmental constraints placed upon it. The neighborhood is largely built-out, meaning that any new development would likely be redevelopment of space. Soil Canfield-Urban land conditions are adequate for most types of development; there are no riparian setbacks and minimal area with slopes greater than a difficult grade to build on for most land uses. There is, however, potential Slow permeability makes12%, it a severe for onsite sewage effluent within East Village. forlimitation substantial acreage of brownfields disposal. Seasonally high water table and 2 to 6 percent slope makes it a moderate limitation for sites for homes of three stories or less, street and parking lots and athletic Soils Map fields. Chili-Urban land 6 to 12 percent slope makes it a slight limitation for onsite sewage effluent disposal, sites for homes of three stories or less and athletic use. Medium to low available moisture capacity and slope make it a moderate limitation for lawns, landscaping and golf fairways. Pervious substratum is a severe limitation to sanitary landfills. Ellsworth-Urban land 2 to 6 percent slope makes soil a moderate limitation to streets and parking lots. Seasonally high water table and slow permeability make it a severe limitation to onsite sewage effluent disposal and athletic field use. Moderate limitations exist for Environmental Constraints sites for homes of three stories or less and sanitary landfills. Udorthents, sanitary landfill Well drained to excessively drained soils, erosion and slope limit suitability for most purposes including onsite sewage effluent disposal and athletic field use.

Environmental Constraints map Railroads

East Village

Route 8

Slopes 12% or Greater

Exits

Potential Flood Area

Arterial Streets

Cuyahoga River

Residential Streets

Riparian Setbacks

Potential Brownfields

Route 8 Arterial Streets Residential Streets Potential Brownfields East Village Cuyahoga River

Boulevard Concept For Munroe Falls Avenue 22

Goal The reconstruction of Munroe Falls Avenue as a boulevard, with a tree-lined median, extending from Bailey Road to High Street.

Current Condition Munroe Falls Avenue is currently a two-lane road in the vicinity of the MU-2 district in East Village, with the exception of left-turn lanes at Bailey Road. Plants are not planted in the devil’s strip, and telephone poles are hanging ominously over the roadway. Traffic counts are relatively low in this stretch, with only 8,960 cars per day passing through the MU-2 district. For the businesses, this lack of traffic limits business visibility to the immediate neighborhood. The appearance of a very street can influence how a neighborhood operates and functions. For instance, if a street is landscaped, then more affluent businesses – or at least businesses with more of a concern for external appearances – will relocate to the neighborhood. That is why Munroe Falls Avenue must be improved.

Bailey at Munroe Falls

Vision 23

The goal is to provide a comfortable, safe streetscape that will encourage pedestrians and bike traffic within the new mixed-use neighborhood center. Reconstruction will add a tree lined median between directional traffic, wider sidewalks, street trees, cast-iron styled lamp posts, bike racks and benches.

The boulevard setting, in conjunction with the proposed mixed-use development along it, will cultivate a strong sense of place, a destination, for neighborhood residents. Infrastructure will facilitate a smooth flow of traffic, while catering to the needs of pedestrians. The speed limit through the district will be 25 mph. The area will have improved signage and crossing signals near wide, delineated cross walks. The boulevard will be tree and lamp post lined, providing a sense of barrier between traffic and pedestrians.

Proposed Improvements •

2-lane boulevard with turning lane from roundabout with Bailey Road to High Street

•

2-3 story mixed use buildings along the length of the district

•

Removal of Beech Street; creation of new street parallel to Munroe Falls Avenue running behind the new mixed use buildings to accommodate parking, which will be named Guerra Lane

•

Sidewalks, street trees, lamp posts and street furniture to encourage pedestrian use

Proposed boulevard site with walking time segments

Proposed boulevard rendering with Beech Street removed and the proposed Guerra Lane to accommodate flow of traffic to parking behind the mixed-use buildings

Proposed boulevard code standards

What it might look like

Mixed-Use, Neighborhood Center Development

Goal The creation of mixed-use corridor with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure along Munroe Falls Avenue, extending from the Bailey Road roundabout to High Street. 26

Current Condition The current mixed-use development is nothing noteworthy. In fact, some might even go as far as saying it is detrimental towards the overall image of the neighborhood. The district is significantly underutilized, making it one of the most underutilized mixed-use districts of its size in the entire city. Some of the buildings within the zone are homes. However, the majority of these buildings are small businesses. Partly due to the lack of outside investment in the area, many buildings are dilapidated. Some are even currently vacant, with boards covering windows and doors. The current mixed-use development is unsustainable. When residents of the East Village have to drive outside the neighborhood for groceries, bars, or restaurants, then vehicles are likely to be used. While driving distances to Chapel Hill are very short, East Village residents should not have to drive whenever necessary. Having decent establishments nearby are a cure to this regionalism that has plagued planning for the past 50 years.

Vision The goal is to create a mixed use corridor that will act as a neighborhood center for residents of the neighborhood. The buildings will be 2-3 stories in height, built to the street so as to create the feeling of a comfortable outdoor room with the boulevard running through the center. The first floors will house business to serve the daily needs of residents such as a barber shop, laundromat, apothecary, sit-down restaurants, taverns and coffee bar.

Currently, none of these uses exist within the district, leaving residents no option other than to climb in their car and drive to these services. By providing them within walking distance, and within a district designed to be a destination, residents will come to feel as though they live in a complete neighborhood and that their home extends beyond their own yard. The district is intended to evoke a connection to the neighborhood for residents; it will act as a center for interaction and a local place to take care of business.

The upper floors of the development will house a mix of offices and apartments. The neighborhood has been losing residents since 1980 and the population has been aging, these new apartments will help to reverse both these trends. Office space, not currently provided in any real way, would bring workers to the district during the day to support the restaurants and coffee bars, and in the evening, the clientele would transition to local residents. Office space within the district may also allow the manufacturing base of the neighborhood to relocate their clerical operations to a more appropriate setting, while creating opportunity for growth of manufacturing operations in its place.

Proposed Improvements

•

2-3 story mixed-use buildings, built to the street, with porches and balconies along the length of the district 27

•

Unique, capstone buildings at both ends of the district to create a defined entrance and exit

•

Removal of Beech Street

•

Creation of new street parallel to Munroe Falls Avenue running behind the new mixed use buildings to accommodate parking, which will be named Guerra Lane

What it Might Look Like

Live/Work Enclave

At Bailey Road

& Munroe Falls Ave.

Goal The creation of a live/work enclave north of Munroe Falls Avenue extending from Bailey Road to Talbot Street (which will be realigned with High Street and possibly renamed as such). The district will require a rezoning to MU-5.

Current Condition

Outside of the MU-2 district to the north, the area is currently zoned as R-5 or E-1. This zoning is suffocating and lowers home values exceptionally. Talbot, Russell, and Beech Streets are all dead-end streets connecting to Munroe Falls Avenue from the north. These streets are primarily R-5, with homes dotting the landscape. However, the E-1 district which parallels the railroad tracks to the north is dominant here. Factories and unused parking lots take away from the homes on these streets, and the result is a series of streets with views of unattractive industry. The land uses described here are unsustainable in the long run. Factories will close, leaving empty massive buildings. This will create an eyesore for residents, and they will demand a change. The live/work enclave at Bailey and Munroe Falls will keep East Village a step ahead of the curve. While it is important to note that a part of the identity of the East Village is the abundance of industrial jobs, it is something that Ohio in general has struggled to move away from. Moving towards a tertiary economy – at least on a neighborhood scale – would improve social conditions in the neighborhood significantly.

Beech Street looking North

Bailey Road at rail road tracks

Vision The goal of the live/work enclave is to provide new, loft-style apartment and workspace complex aimed at attracting young, creative urbanites to the East Village neighborhood. As with the apartments in the mixed-use development, these too are aimed at attracting new, younger residents into the neighborhood. The complex is envisioned to be a center for creative individuals looking for somewhere they can call home, somewhere with like-minded neighbors and studio space for their artistic endeavors. This demographic will also find the mixed-use district a lure, presenting them the opportunity to reduce their dependence on their car by shopping locally. The live/work lofts fit more cohesively with the neighborhood than the current uses. As it stands, residential abuts industry along crumbling streets with no sidewalks, curbs and exposed drainage. Because of these conditions, property values in this area are among the lowest in the neighborhood. By eliminating the conflicting uses, the area can be revitalized under a single zoning, removing blighted properties and allowing the land to appreciate in value.

Proposed Improvements •

Removal of industrial and residential structures

•

Rezoning of the area to an MU-5 district

•

Development of a 30-unit loft-style apartment and workspace complex

•

Possible development of a small in & outdoor gallery space

What it Might Look Like

Trails End Park Redevelopment

Goal Redevelopment of Trails End Park with two regulation baseball diamonds and a formal green.

Current Condition

Located at the end of Portage Trail East, Trails End Park is an underutilized park. In the southwest corner of the park lies the area’s fire station, while the southeast corner of the park claims host of two irregularshaped baseball fields. Center Avenue on the east is cut off from Center Avenue on the west and High Street, complicating traffic circulation within the neighborhood. The park is not seen as a community gathering place, but only as a place where Little Leaguers can hope that their love of the game and talent can take them to Williamsport, PA. Trails End Park, while a popular park, could serve more than just children. Because of the parks elongated shape along High Street, it does not allow Center Avenue to connect east to Center Avenue dead end west, breaking up the gridded network of the area.

Vision

Trails End Park has the potential to be something truly special for the residents of the East Village neighborhood. In its current condition, a large section of the park is unusable space and, as a result, is often overlooked. By redeveloping the park with a variety of uses in mind, the space will become a node within 31

the neighborhood along High Street, which is proposed to become the spine of the area. The recreational amenities offered by a “path-and-node” park system in the neighborhood would raise property values, often a major concern here. It would also support any future recreational needs of young families the neighborhood is trying to attract. The proposed improvements would split the parks elongated shape in two. The improved and regulation size baseball diamonds would become their own park, dedicated to that sole purpose. Center Avenue would then be connected east to west, restoring the grid network to the streets and allowing greater connectivity. The ‘second’ park would become a formal green, an area for meeting, walking and people watching where unusable space once was.

Proposed Improvements •

Connection of Center Avenue east to west, restoring the street grid and creating tow parks

•

Two new, regulation baseball diamonds

•

A formal green

•

Walking paths, park benches, lamp posts and fountain

What it Might Look Like

High Street Redevelopment

5 32

Goal Redevelopment of High Street into a “neighborhood spine.” It will connect the Sill Middle School site to Trails End Park, the new mixed-use neighborhood center.

Current Conditions

High Street is the neighborhood’s north-south minor collector. While sidewalks line the streets, METRO RTA buses still stop in the middle of the street, forcing cars to drive around them. Furthermore, bike lanes are not present, meaning that bikers have to either use the sidewalk – endangering pedestrians – or put themselves in danger by riding in vehicular lanes. In the south, the soccer field at former Sill Middle School is secluded from the “spine” of East Village – High Street. While High Street serves as the “spine” of East Village, it is not treated as such; it is treated like any other side street. Traffic levels, due in part to poor transportation planning, are high on an entirely residential street. Furthermore, the busiest intersection, with Portage Trail East, is designed so that all traffic on High Street has to stop, while traffic turning right onto High Street immediately faces an intersection with School Street. One High Street resident has complained about traffic on High Street – in particular, the buses. Redesigning the street to better accommodate buses would make the street safer for traffic, as well as area children playing in the street.

Vision The goal is to create a “self-actualized” High Street in which its identity as the “spine” of East Village is obvious to outsiders would help the neighborhood form an identity which impresses any potential home buyer. The aim is create one continuous, comfortable, streetscape that will connect the Still school site to the new Trails End Park and on to the new neighborhood center, terminating in the new live/work enclave.

Because the street bisects the entire neighborhood, touching all major points within it, it is the ideal candidate for this type of treatment. The street is overly wide at points, despite not allowing parking on either side. This creates a feeling of barren vastness between the houses and along the sidewalk, making walking along it unpleasant. Adding to this is the lack of trees along the street, although there are some mature trees sparsely dotting the tree lawns. The plan calls for reducing the width of the street, eliminating unused roadway or possibly converting the extra space into bike lanes. During this portion of construction, power lines and utilities visible to the naked eye will be buried, cleaning up the visual aspect of the streetscape. The plan calls for the purchasing of several homes at the northeastern corner of the Sill Middle School site in order to make the connection complete. The plan also calls for improved bus stops with covered benches and improved signage and maps.

Proposed Improvements •

Reducing the width of the street OR converting the extra width to bike lanes

•

Burying of aboveground utilities and removing poles

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New lamp posts

•

Addition of street trees

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Purchasing of several properties near the Still School site

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Improved bus stops with covered benches, improved signage and maps

What it Might Look Like

Home Improvement & Preservation Outline

Goal Financial incentives for preservation and rehabilitation of historic homes

Current Condition

East Village contains some of the city’s oldest housing, with some homes being built as early as 1880. With many homes being under the control of negligent landlords from outside the area, some of these buildings are left to fall apart. The tenants, many of whom are not in good standing financially, cannot afford to pay for the disrepair that the landlord should feel obligated to fix. While it is important to note that funding is available in the name of historic preservation, the reality is that not enough is being done to alleviate these conditions. Without historic preservation, this neighborhood’s decline will deepen. Buildings will fall apart beyond repair, effectively ruining buildings built before electricity became widespread. The heart of the neighborhood, without drastic measures being taken, will descend into a state of disrepair it might never recover from. Some might say the issue is regulation of landlords, but that is looking too deeply into the issue. Historic preservation needs to be implemented immediately to have any chance of salvaging many of the neighborhood’s aging buildings.

Vision

The goal of the plan is to increase owner occupancy rates and restoration of aging housing within the East Village through financial incentives. The entire East Village is within a Neighborhood Stabilization targeted area.

The city’s plan outlines the goals for NSP money to be spent in the neighborhood:

• The need for which NSP funding will be utilized in 520101 1 is Residential Development. The activity will provide homeownership opportunities to persons with incomes at or below 120% AMI. • Demolition of blighted structures will focus the funding on razing structures that exhibit “blight” as locally defined in the City of Cuyahoga Falls codified ordinances (for definition, see the demolition portion of the Activity Design section). The need for demolition in this area is to remove those structures that have an objectively demonstrable adverse affect on property values and/or safety in the immediate neighborhood. • The projected impact is to stabilize the target area, stemming the tide of disinvestment by: a) improving the housing stock quality by rehabilitation of vacant, abandoned or foreclosed upon properties, b) increase home ownership within the target area, c) provide impetus for neighborhood investment within this block group and d) decrease inadequate housing stock by demolishing blighted structures that have become a detriment to the immediate neighborhood. Other incentives by the city for home improvements are outlined below.

The City of Cuyahoga Falls has created a Residential Matching Grant for homeowners making significant improvements to their homes. All improvements must conform to applicable building, zoning and housing codes. The program is promoting energy efficiency. This is a federally funded program under the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. •

The home to be improved must be located in Cuyahoga Falls with city accounts current (utilities, income taxes and property taxes).

•

There is no maximum project amount. However, the maximum matching grant is $10,000.

•

Interested parties must complete an application and submit it to the Development Department together with required income documentation. Participants must qualify for federal assistance under the 2009 HUD Income Guidelines for Moderate Income Persons. Additionally, they must provide a detailed project description, project budget and identify the owner’s source of funding. This is a one-time grant per applicant and the applicant must be the owner/occupant.

•

The primary project must include at least one of the qualified improvements to the home. Additional improvements may include cosmetic changes resulting from the primary project. Qualified primary improvements include the addition and/or replacement of mechanical systems, building additions, interior reconfigurations, kitchen or bath upgrades, exterior upgrades including roof with gutters and downspouts, vinyl siding, insulation and replacement windows.

•

Grant applications will be accepted beginning July 1, 2010. Applications will be considered in the order the Development Department receives them. Applicants will receive grant confirmation in the order they are approved until all funding is utilized each year.

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The grant application must be reviewed and approved by the CDBG Entitlement Administrator before a building permit is issued. No project under $5,000 (total cost) will be considered. The Development Department may request other information deemed appropriate before approving a grant request. In the event the homeowner will be completing the improvements, all applicable Building Department requirements must be satisfied. Homeowner labor is not a qualified reimbursable cost.

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The Development Department will make every effort to consider a request within six (6) weeks of submittal to the Department, which is subject to receiving approvals from other governmental agencies.

•

Construction must begin within the time frame provided in the approval notification and be consistent with plans submitted to the City of Cuyahoga Falls.

•

A check for the grant amount will be available for pickup by the homeowner and/or contractor when the approved improvements have been completed and all building inspections finalized. The Development Department will require copies of cancelled checks, lien releases, or any other information deemed appropriate before issuing payment. The Development Department reserves the right to withhold payment if the renovations are not consistent with the approved plans until improvements conform to approvals.

The outline for the city’s tax abatement program is as follows:

For residential property, a tax exemption on the increase in the assessed valuation resulting from improvements as described in ORC Section 3735.67 shall be granted upon proper application by the property owner and certification thereof by the designated Housing Office for the following types of improvements and for the following periods and exemption percentages. Residential applications must be filed with the Housing Officer no later than 12 months after construction completion. • Five (5) year/seventy-five (75) percent tax exemption for the remodeling of owner-occupied onefamily dwelling units upon which the cost of remodeling is at least $15,000 as described in ORC Section 3735.67. A single additional unit (only one) is also eligible for this exemption if an occupying owner leases that unit and it is attached to the owner-occupied unit. • (b) Seven (7) year/seventy-five (75) percent tax exemption for the remodeling of owneroccupied structures of historical or architectural significance, as defined in O.R.C. Section 3735.65, upon which the cost of remodeling is at least $15,000 as described in ORC Section 3735.67. A single additional unit (only one) is also eligible for this exemption if an occupying owner leases that unit and it is attached to the owner-occupied unit. • (c) Fifteen (15) year tax exemption for new construction of owner-occupied single family dwelling units (including condominiums and townhouses) upon which the cost is at least $125,000 per unit as described in ORC Section 3735.67. The exemption shall be for 100% the first 11 years, 80% for year 12, 60% for year 13, 40% for year 14, and 20% for year 15. • If remodeling qualifies for an exemption, during the period of the exemption, the exempted percentage of the dollar amount of the increase in market value of the structure shall be exempt from real property taxation. If new construction qualifies for an exemption the exempted percentage of the structure shall not be considered to be an improvement on the land on which it is located for the purpose of real property taxation.

Development Plan A.

PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ELEMENTS

Land Use Strategic Objective: Compliance of land uses to the category specified for the land parcel to pre-empt any anticipated differential impact thus rendering community inhabitable. Suggested Action: Ensure that land uses are compliant with zoning ordinances and changes effected to accommodate use where and when applicable. Provide an orderly system of blocks and lots for efficient development and redevelopment in the city.

Urban Design Strategic Objective: Create a unique urban character with transit-oriented development as its underpinning theme. Suggested Action: Urban center should be at the intersection of two arterial streets. Streetscape Strategic Objective: Create a street network that facilitates the greatest level of accessibility, connectivity, pedestrian friendly and multi-modal functions. Suggested Action: Ensure that all streets are pedestrian friendly; sidewalks, curb cuts, accessible to physical challenged and other transportation modes, tree lined et cetera.

Open Space and Parks Strategic Objective: Create functional, strategically located and accessible open spaces to address aesthetic, environmental and recreational issues.

Suggested Action: Incorporate existing and future open spaces into subdivision process to ensure that land subdivisions recognize these plans.

Transportation/ Circulation Strategic Objective: Create a street network that provides the greatest level of accessibility, connectivity and facilitate multi nodal transportation in a transit –oriented development framework.

Suggested Action: Ensure that streets are planned within an orderly system of blocks and lots with connectivity to existing or planned streets.

Community Facilities Strategic Objective: Provide community facilities within a sustainable context with an emphasis on user friendliness, safety, environmental soundness and equity. Suggested Action: Ensure that community facilities are well integrated into the fiber of the community providing the most socioeconomic benefit.

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

Jobs and Employment 40

Strategic Objective: Create a vibrant neighborhood which offers avenues of employment at accessible locations in appropriately zoned areas

Suggested Action: Create a platform for businesses to stay vibrant Health and Safety Strategic Objective: Create a vibrant neighborhood which safeguards the safety, health and morals of the citizenry. Suggested Action: Ensure that activities with potential threats to the health and safety of the citizenry occur in appropriately zoned areas.

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT

Regulatory Strategic Objective: Pursue a development agenda which addresses the concerns of the interplay of equity, environment, economy and livability in a holistic manner to attain sustainability. Suggested Action: Give priority to equity, environment, economy and livability issues in the management of development.

Management structure Strategic Objective: Administration of all strategic objectives and policy actions shall be carried out by the Planning Division in conjunction with the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals to achieve a balance between ecology, economy, equity and livability. Suggested Action: Review development projects in a comprehensive manner to ensure that all the issues concerning them are appropriately addressed. Funding for projects should be sourced from funds designated for specified projects. 41

Monitoring, Evaluation and Updating

Strategic Objective: Monitor, evaluate and update plan objectives and policies and update them where and when necessary to achieve the stated vision for the neighborhood. Suggested Action: Conduct periodic monitoring, evaluation and update of projects to ensure that it addresses current needs without compromising the ability of future generations.

Strategic Environmental Assessment of Plans for East Village Neighborhood Strategic Environmental Assessment is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental consequences of proposed policy, plan or program initiatives in order to ensure they are fully included and appropriately addressed at the earliest appropriate stage of decision making on par with economic and social considerations. (Sadler and Verheem, 1996). This process is conducted prior to the implementation of proposed plans to ascertain the impacts they would have on existing conditions and devise means to address them at an earlier stage relative to an impact assessment which takes place at the end of a project. The Sustainability Matrix would be used to assess the level of sustainability of the plans with respect to ecology, equity, economy and livability of the neighborhood. Sustainability Matrix This tool assesses the possibility of a plan addressing a problem without compromising the ability of future generations to address problems pertaining to their livelihood. The sustainability matrix gives a visual as well as a quantitative measure of the extent to which a policy supports sustainable growth and development. In this matrix, a classification of the likely effects of a policy action on sustainability criteria is conducted. The performance of the policy action in relation to the set criteria is assessed on a scale of 0-5 where 0 indicates zero relevance 1-strongly against 2- against 3- neutral effect 4-supportive and 42

5- strongly supportive of the aims and objectives.

Plan: The reconstruction of Munroe Falls Avenue into a boulevard, extending from Bailey Road to High Street. CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants. Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved

INDICATORS

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

Sensitive areas shown on maps

Vulnerable areas shown on maps

Quantity and type of energy to be identified Quantity and type of pollutants identified Quantity and type of materials Natural characteristics to be identified.

0 0 0

1 1 1

2 2 2

3 3 3

4 4 4

5 5 5

Opinions of local communities to be assessed Number of people exposed to pollution related diseases to be assessed Number of minority concerns catered for.

Number of people to be employed Number of poor to benefit

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Economic output evaluated

Description of sources

Description of investment strategy

5 5

Safety level ranked on color coded chart Air quality level ranked on color coded chart Water quality level ranked on color coded chart Sanitation level ranked on color coded chart

Figure 3.3.1 Sustainability Matrix Analysis of plan- The reconstruction of Munroe Falls Avenue into a boulevard, extending from Bailey Road to High Street. NB: Shaded cells indicate scores.

CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants. Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

SCORE

REASONS

Reconstruction sites do not have any wildlife and conservation areas.

4 4

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification would ensure it is supportive. LEED would ensure efficient use of energy.

4 4 4

LEED would ensure minimal discharge of pollutants. Raw material use would be encouraged LEED would ensure minimal destruction of natural character.

4 4

Cohesion of local communities through improved accessibility Tree lined boulevard would impact positively on

Minority groups would not be directly affected

5 3

Potentially create job and employment avenues No direct impact on equity

Project would inject capital into the neighborhood.

Local resources would be given priority due to easier access.

Local businesses would see a boom.

5 5

Boulevard opens up neighborhood for improved safety. LEED certification would reduce pollution and improve air quality

Water quality protection through LEED would be enhanced to prevent non point source pollution. LEED certification would safeguard sanitation. Aesthetic appeal would be improved

5 5

Figure 3.3.2 Record sheet for Sustainability Matrix for Analysis of plan- The reconstruction of Munroe Falls Avenue into a boulevard, extending from Bailey Road to High Street.

Plan: The creation of mixed-use corridor with pedestrian friendly infrastructure along Munroe Falls Avenue, extending

from Bailey Road to High Street. CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants.

INDICATORS

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

Sensitive areas shown on maps

Vulnerable areas shown on maps

Quantity and type of energy to be identified Quantity and type of pollutants identified

Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Quantity and type of materials Minimum flows and water levels to be set

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Opinions of local communities to be assessed Number of people exposed to pollution related diseases to be assessed Number of minority concerns catered for.

Number of people to be employed Number of poor to benefit

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Economic output evaluated

Description of sources

Description of investment strategy

5 5

Safety level ranked on color coded chart Air quality level ranked on color coded chart Water quality level ranked on color coded chart Sanitation level ranked on color coded chart Aesthetic appeal ranked

Figure 3.3.3 Sustainability Matrix Analysis of plan- The creation of mixed-use corridor with pedestrian friendly infrastructure along Munroe Falls Avenue, extending from Bailey Road to High Street. NB: Shaded cells indicate scores.

SCORE

REASONS

Conservation through smart growth.

Potential damage to vulnerable areas would be avoided.

LEED certification would ensure efficient energy use.

4 4 4

LEED certification would ensure minimal pollution. LEED certification would ensure efficient use of raw materials No direct impacts on rivers and water bodies

4 4

Mixed use encourages communalism and sense of belongingness. Increased access to health care, healthy lifestyle.

Minority groups would not be directly affected.

Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY

Transport related and other jobs would be created. Accessibility to jobs through improved and cost effective transportation No direct correlation

Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Mixed use corridor encourages economic growth

4 5

Mixed use development encourages use of local resources and services. Capital injection is encouraged

5 2

Transit oriented development improves safety. Mixed use could affect air quality

Water quality could be affected from concentration of activity

2 4

Sanitation could be challenged Transit oriented development creates aesthetic appeal.

Figure 3.3.4 Record sheet for Sustainability Matrix for plan- The creation of mixed-use corridor with pedestrian friendly infrastructure along Munroe Falls Avenue, extending from Bailey Road to High Street.

Plan: The creation of a live/work enclave north of Munroe Falls Avenue extending from Bailey Road to Talbot Street/High

Street CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants. Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved

INDICATORS

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

Sensitive areas shown on maps

Vulnerable areas shown on maps

Quantity and type of energy to be identified Quantity and type of pollutants identified Quantity and type of materials Minimum flows and water levels to be set

0 0 0

1 1 1

2 2 2

3 3 3

4 4 4

5 5 5

Opinions of local communities to be assessed Number of people exposed to water related diseases to be assessed Number of minority concerns catered for.

Number of people to be employed Number of poor to benefit

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Economic output evaluated

Description of sources

Description of investment strategy

Safety level ranked on color coded chart Air quality level ranked on color coded chart

5 5

Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Water quality level ranked on color coded chart Sanitation level ranked on color coded chart Aesthetic appeal ranked

Figure 3.3.5 Sustainability Matrix Analysis of Plan- The creation of a live/work enclave north of Munroe Falls Avenue extending from Bailey Road to Talbot Street NB: Shaded cells indicate scores.

SCORE

REASONS

Land and resources are conserved.

Live and work approach avoids vulnerable areas.

LEED certification would ensure energy efficiency.

4 4 4

Discharge of pollutants could be minimized using this approach. Raw materials would be efficiently utilized Destruction of natural character would be reduced

4 4

Improvement in local communal attitude and sense of belongingness. Live and work could ensure concentrated efforts to secure health and well being. Shelter provisions are also catered for. Minority groups could be supported

Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Job creation would be enhanced through provision of avenues to ply trade. Equity is enhanced.

Economy is bolstered for growth

Local resources are effectively utilized.

Local investment of capital

5 5

Economy is bolstered for growth Local materials would be used in the process

Point source pollution could be effectively addressed if any.

4 5

Sanitation issues can be effectively monitored. Aesthetics would be improved in the process.

4 5

Figure 3.3.6 Record sheet for Sustainability Matrix for Analysis of Plan- The creation of a live/work enclave north of Munroe Falls Avenue extending from Bailey Road to Talbot Street

Plan: Trails End Park Redevelopment CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants. Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Figure 3.3.7

INDICATORS

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

Sensitive areas shown on maps

Vulnerable areas shown on maps

Quantity and type of energy to be identified Quantity and type of pollutants identified Quantity and type of materials Minimum flows and water levels to be set

0 0 0

1 1 1

2 2 2

3 3 3

4 4 4

5 5 5

Opinions of local communities to be assessed Number of people exposed to water related diseases to be assessed Number of minority concerns catered for.

Number of people to be employed Number of poor to benefit

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Economic output evaluated

Description of sources

Description of investment strategy

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Sustainability Matrix Analysis of Plan- Trails End Park Redevelopment NB: Shaded cells indicate scores.

SCORE

REASONS

Conservation and preservation practices would be encouraged

4 3

Vulnerable areas would be identified and protected through screening and scoping of strategic environmental assessment Renewable resources would be efficiently managed

Discharge of pollutants would be minimized through more sustainable

Figure 3.3.8

4 4

practices Sustainability would result in efficient use of raw materials Destruction of water bodies would be minimal

4 4

Institutional structures would be developed for communal approaches Health and well being would be safeguarded through more user friendly policies Resultant jobs could empower women

4 3 4 5

Job creation through plans, programs and multi modal transport Improved accessibility to land through multi modal transport Improved accessibility to water through multi modal transport Improved sanitation through plans, programs and policies

Equitable distribution of resources

Plan, programs and policies would reduce incidence of conflicts

4 4

Strong economic gains Use of local raw materials encouraged through cost benefit analysis and programs Retention of local capital and investment

4 4 4

Record sheet for Sustainability Matrix for Analysis of Plan- Trails End Park Redevelopment

Plan: Development of High Street into a “neighborhood spine” connecting the Sill School Site to Trails End Park- proposed

mixed-use neighborhood center. CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants. Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses.

INDICATORS

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

Sensitive areas shown on maps

Vulnerable areas shown on maps

Quantity and type of energy to be identified Quantity and type of pollutants identified Quantity and type of materials Minimum flows and water levels to be set

0 0 0

1 1 1

2 2 2

3 3 3

4 4 4

5 5 5

Opinions of local communities to be assessed Number of people exposed to water related diseases to be assessed Number of minority concerns catered for.

Number of people to be employed Number of poor to benefit

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Economic output evaluated

Description of sources

Description of investment strategy

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Figure 3.3.7 Sustainability Matrix Analysis of Plan- Development of High Street into a “neighborhood spine” connecting the Sill School Site to Trails End Park- proposed mixed-use neighborhood center NB: Shaded cells indicate scores.

SCORE

REASONS

No negative impacts to conservation.

Vulnerable areas would be identified and protected prior to plan implementation. Renewable resources would be efficiently managed

4 4

Discharge of pollutants would be minimized through more sustainable practices Sustainability would result in efficient use of raw materials Destruction of natural character would be minimal

4 3

Linkage would encourage communal character of community. Health and well being would be safeguarded through more user friendly approaches under LEED certification Resultant jobs and domino effect could empower minority but no direct correlation exists Job creation through plan Improved accessibility to land through multi modal transport

Neighborhood spine would promote economic development.

Use of local resources.

Investment of capital would impact positively on industries and businesses.

Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

4 3

Improved safety through No direct impact on air quality.

No direct impact on water quality.

3 4

No direct impact on sanitation Enhancement of aesthetic appeal.

Figure 3.3.8 Record sheet for Sustainability Matrix for Analysis of Plan- Development of High Street into a “neighborhood spine” connecting the Sill School Site to Trails End Park- proposed mixed-use neighborhood center

Plan: Financial Incentives for Preservation and rehabilitation CRITERIA –BASIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES EFFECTS ON ECOLOGY Protected Areas and wildlife: Conservation and preservation of resource should be enhanced. Degraded land: Vulnerable areas should be avoided and protected. Energy: Encourage efficient use of renewable resources. Pollution: Minimize discharge of pollutants. Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Figure 3.3.7 indicate scores.

INDICATORS

PERFORMANCE MEASURE

Sensitive areas shown on maps

Vulnerable areas shown on maps

Quantity and type of energy to be identified Quantity and type of pollutants identified Quantity and type of materials Minimum flows and water levels to be set

0 0 0

1 1 1

2 2 2

3 3 3

4 4 4

5 5 5

Opinions of local communities to be assessed Number of people exposed to water related diseases to be assessed Number of minority concerns catered for.

Number of people to be employed Number of poor to benefit

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Economic output evaluated

Description of sources

Description of investment strategy

0 0

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5

Sustainability Matrix Analysis of Plan- Financial Incentives for Preservation and rehabilitation NB: Shaded cells

SCORE

REASONS

Conservation and preservation practices would be encouraged

Vulnerable areas would be identified and protected through screening and scoping of strategic environmental assessment Renewable resources would be efficiently managed

Use of raw materials: Efficient use of raw materials

Natural character: Retain natural character. EFFECTS ON EQUITY Local character: Cohesion of local communities Health and well-being: Support health, well-being and shelter Support Minority: Address concerns of minority groups Job creation: Create jobs for local people Equity: Equitable distribution of gains and losses. EFFECTS ON ECONOMY Growth: Encourage strong and stable economic growth. Use of local resources and services: Encourage use of local resources where possible. Local investment of capital: Encourage local retention of capital and development of industries. EFFECTS ON LIVABILITY Safety: Improve safety of neighborhood Air quality: Ensure that air quality levels are improved Water quality: Ensure that water quality levels are improved Sanitation: Ensure that sanitation is improved Beautification: Improve the aesthetic appeal

Figure 3.3.8 rehabilitation

4 5

4 4

Discharge of pollutants would be minimized through more sustainable practices Sustainability and LEED certification would result in efficient use of raw materials Destruction of natural character would be minimal

Preservation would enhance communal spirit. Preservation activities would remove blighted and potential brown fields. Minority and vulnerable in neighborhood would be catered for.

4 4

Job creation through rehabilitation efforts Fairness in access to benefits and demerits.

Injection of capital projects

Local resources would be used directly.

Investment of capital.

4 4

Improved safety due to reuse of property and restored buildings Rehabilitated buildings with potentially dangerous chemicals would be taken care of. Rehabilitated buildings with potentially dangerous chemicals would be taken care of. Improvement in the level of sanitation through the Aesthetic appeal would be enhanced.

4 4 5

Record sheet for Sustainability Matrix for Analysis of Plan- Financial Incentives for Preservation and

From the above assessment, the plan actions proposed for the East Village neighborhood can be said to be sustainable. The impacts of these plans of ecology, equity, economy and the livability of the neighborhood were generally supportive. A case in point is the assessment of the proposed development of High Street into the “neighborhood spine”. This project would connect the Sill to the Trails End Park. On the potential impacts of the project on the ecology, no negative impacts are perceived with respect to the objective of conservation and preservation of resources. The natural character would not be altered in a negative fashion and this would serve the ideals of sustainability well. On the theme of equity, development of High Street into a neighborhood spine would promote cohesion within the local community, equal access to the merits and demerits if any of the project thereby supporting fairness 52

among others. This would however have no direct consequence on the concerns of minority groups as an equity objective. On the economy, local investment of capital would encourage local retention of capital and development of industries through the project implementation. Also, local resources would be utilized directly and indirectly, implicitly and explicitly and would ultimately result in economic growth. On the impacts of the project on the livability of the neighborhood, there would be improved safety within the neighborhood spine which would have a domino effect on the entire neighborhood. This is due to the fact that as the focus of activities within the neighborhood, safety measures would be put in place to secure life and property. The general aesthetic appeal would be improved through the project among other benefits. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for projects under the plan for the neighborhood would provide a sound platform for the quest to attain sustainability. Issues that arise as a result of the interplay of these broad themes- ecology, equity, economy, livability could pose a sustainability challenge. These conflicts notably development, resource and property arise from the interaction of equity and ecology, ecology and economy and equity and economy respectively. From the It is worth noting that the impacts of the projects are generally supportive of these principles and thus would pose minimal threats to the sustainability of the neighborhood’s goals. The neighborhood given this assessment would be able to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their peculiar needs.