Corpus Christi Integrated Community Sustainability Plan
Master Implementation Matrix
August 2011
Corpus Christi Integrated Community Sustainability Plan Master Implementation Matrix
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Table of Contents
01 02 06 08 09 13 15 18 21 24 26 28 30
Introduction General Recommendations Data Collection Recommendations Destination Nodes Plan Overview 01 Downtown/Uptown 02 Annaville 03 Morgan Avenue/Baldwin Boulevard 04 Six Points 05 Bear Lane 06 Weber Road/Saratoga Boulevard 07 Sunrise Mall 08 Flour Bluff 09 The Island
Introduction
In April of 2010, the City of Corpus Christi received $2.7M in direct allocation Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds from the Department of Energy (DOE) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The largest of the nine projects funded by the EECBG grant was the creation of an Integrated Community Energy Efficiency/Sustainability Plan and Implementation Program. This Implementation Matrix, developed as part of that planning effort, is essentially a stepwise recipe for realizing a more livable and sustainable community. The recommendations herein range from no-cost, communitybased activities to large capital improvement projects. In all cases, each line item constitutes an individual action item and includes, where possible, a suggested lead entity for administering the action, potential teaming partners, and relative priority.
These action items—referred to here as Strategies— are organized by geography, where those found in the General Recommendations section refer to the broader community, and those listed in each of the nine Destination Node sections refer to opportunities at those particular locations. In addition to organization by Geography, individual strategies are also categorized by Element ** and by Activity Category. In the digital form of the Implementation Matrix that resides on the Integrated Community Sustainability Plan website (http://www.cctexas.com/sustainability), individual strategies can be sorted and searched by any of these three modes. For example, with a few clicks of a mouse, users can view all recommended strategies that involve planning/policy action items relating to the Element MOBILITY within the Downtown/Uptown Destination Node.
** The project planning team, working closely with City staff members from several departments, identified twelve broad
categories, or Elements, of a complete community; these Elements provide the framework for the integrated community planning work that yielded the recommendations in this Implementation Matrix . These Elements range in scope and type from essential, quantifiable municipal services such as Energy, Water, and Waste to issues that pertain more to quality of life, such as Knowledge and Culture.
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GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The strategies recommended in this section of the Implementation Matrix address a wide range of objectives that apply to the broader community and are not location-specific. OBJECTIVE 1
2
3
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Create dedicated position for a Community Sustainability Coordinator who reports directly to City Manager (or an Assistant City Manager)
Staffing
All
City Manager
Corpus Christi Economic Development Corporation
High
Develop and implement a Traditional Neighborhood Development Overlay District Ordinance that creates incentives for large developments (e.g. ~ over 40 acres) to include features such as interconnected street grids, a mix of housing types, multi-use public spaces, and sidewalks or trails to provide pedestrian connections.
Planning/Policy
Energy; Mobility; Economy
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association; Bay Area Smart Growth Initiative
High
Encourage the development of alley-fed neighborhoods
Planning/Policy
Energy; Mobility; Economy
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association
High
Use the existing Del Mar neighborhood as a reference for revising development codes for residential zones
Planning/Policy
Energy; Mobility; Economy
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Establish a supplemental green building standard (e.g. Energy Star, EarthCraft, LEED) as an overlay for new construction within Destination Nodes (Target Areas) and create incentives for adoption (e.g. fast track permitting)
Planning/Policy
Buildings; Energy
Development Services
US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter
High
Provide incentives to residential and commercial building owners to incorporate a full range of energy-conserving technologies (e.g. high efficiency windows, solar screens, radiant barriers, super insulation, high albedo roofing material, high performance lighting) into new construction and retrofits, including the use of renewable systems (e.g. solar, wind, geothermal)
Planning/Policy
Buildings; Energy
Development Services
US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter; AEP Texas; Corpus Christi Builders Association
High
Encourage homeowners, property owners, business owners and developers (through education) to optimize new construction for applicable renewable energy systems and technologies (e.g. by orienting new construction along north/south axis and design homes to be solar-ready)
Buildings/Facilities
Buildings; Energy
Development Services
AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society; Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Revise section 301.3 of the City's plumbing code to allow (incentivize) reuse of AC condensate for non-potable uses (particularly irrigation)
Planning/Policy
Water
Development Services
US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter
Medium
Revise the City's plumbing code to require the installation of pressure reducing valves in the City's high pressure distribution zones
Planning/Policy
Water
Development Services
US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter; Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Revise the City's building codes to incentivize (e.g. by providing free fast track permitting) the installation of rainwater harvesting systems on both new and retrofit construction; consider using the City of Austin's codes and the Texas Rainwater Harvesting Manual as a reference
Planning/Policy
Water
Development Services
Texas Rainwater Catchment Association; Corpus Christi Builders Association
High
Revise the City's building codes to require the use of rain sensors and/or evapotranspiration controllers on irrigation systems; consider pursuing grant funds to support the bulk purchase of this hardware for distribution to water customers at a reduced (subsidized) cost
Planning/Policy
Water
Development Services; Water
Texas Turf Irrigation Association
Medium
Revise the City's building codes to incentivize (e.g. by providing free fast track permitting) the use of drip irrigation systems
Planning/Policy
Water
Development Services; Water
Texas Turf Irrigation Association
Low
Pursue supplemental funds to support continuation of the High Efficiency Toilet Distribution Program
Community-based Action
Water
Water
TBD
High
Expedite implementation of Integrated Community Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Program
Promote traditional neighborhood development (TND)
Promote the construction of healthier, less resource-intensive, buildings
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GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS OBJECTIVE
4
5
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
When establishing an independent funding mechanism for the stormwater management program (e.g. a stormwater utility), consider assessing fees on the basis of EFFECTIVE on-site impervious cover (i.e. the volume of runoff leaving the site for the target design storm, as demonstrated through engineering calculations) in order to create an incentive for property owners to lessen their annual fee burden by installing on-site retention- and/or infiltration-based BMPs to reduce the amount of runoff leaving their site
Planning/Policy
Water
Stormwater Management; Water
TBD
High
Lead an effort to coordinate other municipalities/counties in region by establishing a Coastal Bend Climate Adaptation Consortium to facilitate coordination of planning/policy and the sharing of resources; develop a Climate Adaptation Plan that includes both mitigation and adaptations strategies; key steps in plan development include: 1) gathering and reviewing climate data and assessing projected regional impacts, 2) Assembling a climate preparedness team of technical experts and regional decision makers, 3) Assessing the risks to and resiliency of key community elements, 4) Setting preparedness goals and developing a plan to achieve them, including defining intermediary objectives, metrics of success, and priority preparedness actions, 5) Devoting sufficient resources to implementation of the plan (identifying and pursuing supplemental funding as opportunities arise), 6) Measuring progress regularly by tracking key metrics and updating the plan on an iterative basis
Planning/Policy
Health/Safety/Wellness; Economy
City Manager; Community Development
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coastal Service Center; Other municipalities and counties in the region
High
Develop a Greenhouse Gas Management Plan for the City of Corpus Christi; key steps include: 1) Conducting a baseline inventory of GHG emissions by sector, 2) Establishing an interdisciplinary GHG Management Team, 3) Establishing emissions targets by sector using benchmarks from other communities, 4) Identifying, prioritizing, and implementing action items for the highest-emitting sectors (e.g. transportation, energy, waste, water, land use), 5) Devoting sufficient resources to implementation of the GHG Management Plan (identifying and pursuing supplemental funding as opportunities arise), 6) Measuring progress regularly by tracking key metrics and updating the plan on an iterative basis
Planning/Policy
Health/Safety/Wellness; Economy
City Manager
Other municipalities and counties in the region
High
Create permanent budget line item and identify and pursue external funds to support implementation of: 1) the Climate Adaptation Plan developed by the proposed Coastal Bend Climate Adaptation Consortium and 2) the City of Corpus Christi Greenhouse Gas Management Plan
Planning/Policy
Health/Safety/Wellness; Economy
City Manager
Other municipalities and counties in the region
High
Conduct a land audit to identify potential locations for conversion to community gardens (e.g. City-owned parks, open space, and floodplains)
Planning/Policy
Food
Parks and Recreation
TBD
Medium
Convert under-utilized City-owned parks, open space, and floodplains to neighborhood community gardens
Planning/Policy
Food
Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Partner with local Master Gardeners clubs to provide instructional opportunities to promote community participation
Community-based Activity
Food
Parks and Recreation
Local Master Gardeners clubs
Medium
Revise zoning/land use classification so as to explicitly define urban agriculture as a designated, permitted use as-of-right in any residential zone as well as within any zoning district under specific conditions
Planning/Policy
Food
Development Services
TBD
High
Work with local institutions (e.g. hospitals, government agencies, schools, etc.) to establish markets for locally grown produce
Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity
Food; Economy
TBD
Chamber of Commerce; Economic Development Corporation
Medium
Work with Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation to determine interest from local restaurants, stores and groceries to work with local farmers, community gardeners
Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity
Food; Economy
TBD
Chamber of Commerce; Economic Development Corporation
Low
Initiate long-range regional climate adaptation/sea level rise response and greenhouse gas management planning
Support, enhance, and further develop the local food production and distribution system
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GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS OBJECTIVE 6
7
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Designate oversight and coordination of key community data as an explicit responsibility of the proposed Community Sustainability Coordinator
Data Collection
Economy
City Manager
TBD
Medium
Provide the Community Sustainability Coordinator with: 1) the financial and technical resources necessary to develop a longterm data collection plan that defines protocols and responsibilities for addressing the data collection gaps identified under Data Collection Recommendations in this document and 2) the institutional support to delegate specific data collection responsibilities to staff in the appropriate departments
Data Collection
Economy
City Manager
TBD
Medium
Institute a rigorous, periodic process, to be managed by the Community Sustainability Coordinator, to assess progress relative to priority City goals and objectives
Planning/Policy
Economy
City Manager
TBD
High
As opportunities to plan/construct new storm water conveyance infrastructure arise, include provision for a multi-use (potentially unpaved) trail (8' minimum width) within the easement
Construction
Recreation
Parks and Recreation; Stormwater
South Texas Area Runners, Riders, and Swimmers (STARRS); Local cycling clubs, shops, or enthusiasts
High
Coordinate with AEP Texas about opportunities to designate multi-use trail segments within power line easements
Planning/Policy
Recreation
Parks and Recreation
AEP Texas
High
Planning/Policy
Recreation; Mobility
Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Implement the recommendations defined in the 2011 Strategic Implementation Plan for Energy Efficient Improvements to Water and Wastewater Facilities in prioritizing capital improvements and in optimizing chemical processes
Planning/Policy; Construction
Water
Water
TBD
High
Create a cross-functional Water Loss Control Team (including representation from Engineering, Finance, and Water production, treatment, and distribution) to develop (or oversee the development of by a consultant) a strategic plan for water loss reduction
Planning/Policy
Water
Water
TBD
Medium
Create a dedicated Water Auditor position with a reasonable budget and the responsibility for coordinating the creation and function of a cross-functional Water Loss Control Team and managing the strategic planning process for water loss reduction by that team
Staffing
Water
Water
TBD
Medium
Implement acoustical leak detection and/or water flow measurement testing of water delivery infrastructure (overseen by Water Auditor)
Planning/Policy
Water
Water
TBD
Medium
Implement a rigorous program for meter testing (commercial and large system meters) and meter replacement* (residential and small system meters) *Testing and repair of small meters can exceed the cost of replacement; given a 20-year lifespan for small meters, an ongoing replacement program should target 5% of all small meters each year
Planning/Policy
Water
Water
TBD
High
Perform complimentary or subsidized water audits of large scale irrigation customers to encourage conservation
Planning/Policy
Water
Water
TBD
Low
Implement protocols to enhance documentation of maintenance performed to water/wastewater pumping equipment
Planning/Policy
Water
Water; Wastewater
TBD
High
Generate a periodic (e.g. annual) Municipal Economic Indicator Report that builds upon the regional indicator report (using similar metrics) generated by the Economic Development Corporation
Planning/Policy
Economy
Public Information Office
Economic Development Corporation
High
Develop a customized ROI model (using references such as those developed for the Urban Sustainability Directors Network) to help evaluate and prioritize future investments, make investment decisions more transparent, and to facilitate communication of the economic, social and environmental benefits of sustainable investments
Planning/Policy
Economy
Public Information Office
Economic Development Corporation
Low
Develop an Economic Vibrancy Index for downtown Corpus Christi; establish metrics to specifically measure downtown activity over time (see Data Collection Recommendations); report results in Municipal Economic Indicator Report
Planning/Policy
Economy
Public Information Office
Economic Development Corporation
Medium
Enhance data collection to facilitate goal setting and assessment
Promote City-wide bike connectivity
Adopt the recommendations and standards included in the Hike/Bike Trails Concept Plan* *Delivered under separate cover 8
9
Increase operational efficiency of the City's water and wastewater systems
Enhance monitoring and reporting of key economic performance indicators
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GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS OBJECTIVE 10
11
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Enhance coordination with the Convention and Visitors Bureau by designating City staff liaison(s) and/or establishing a regular coordination meeting
Staffing
Economy
Public Information Office
Convention and Visitors Bureau
Low
Refine City branding to reflect a clear identity and established priorities relating to Corpus Christi as a nature-based tourist destination
Planning/Policy
Economy
Public Information Office
Convention and Visitors Bureau; Economic Development Corporation
Low
Coordinate with the Economic Development Corporation to conduct a detailed economic analysis of the contribution that nature-based tourism represents annually in the local economy (see Data Collection Recommendations); disseminate the findings of the analysis among decision makers
Planning/Policy
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation
Medium
Use the results of the economic analysis to conduct inclusive long-range goal setting and strategic planning to ensure that strategies for economic growth (particularly with respect to the balance between tourism and industry) are well aligned with the economic reality and long-term vision of the community leaders.
Planning/Policy
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation
Medium
Coordinate with the Convention and Visitors Bureau to implement the recommendations of the Nature Tourism Initiative Inventory
Planning/Policy
Recreation; Economy
Parks and Recreation
Convention and Visitors Bureau
High
Partner with the Economic Development Corporation and economic development interests in neighboring communities to create an enhanced comprehensive strategic economic development plan for Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region
Planning/Policy
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation; Other municipalities and counties in the region
Medium
Pass, implement and promote the remaining new zoning and platting ordinances that are under review in Development Services (technical assistance for which was provided through the integrated community sustainability planning process) to foster more compact, efficient development and to create a development climate that is more attractive to outside investors
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association; Bay Area Smartgrowth Initiative (BASGI)
High
Leverage the City's Tax Increment Financing (TIF) policy and district to use tax increment funds for "smart" infrastructure upgrades in existing built areas (water/sewer, streets, etc.)
Construction
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation
High
Promote (i.e. market locally, regionally, and nationally) local efforts to enhance the number and quality of concerts, sporting events, and other social events intended to improve quality of life and attract/retain creative, well-educated workforce (e.g. Destination Bayfront, sports teams) and to attract visitors and investors
Planning/Policy
Economy
Public Information Office
Downtown Management District; Convention and Visitors Bureau
Medium
Partner with the Economic Development Corporation and economic development interests in neighboring communities to create a strategy for business expansion/recruitment in the industrial sector that balances traditional strengths (manufacturing, port/trade, oil/gas) and emerging opportunities (e.g. clean energy innovation, engineering, health care)
Planning/Policy
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation; Other municipalities and counties in the region
Low
Enhance coordination and collaboration with Del Mar Community College, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, and Workforce Solutions to build a skilled workforce to meet the range of technical and professional skills needed to support target industries (particularly renewable energy development)
Planning/Policy
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation
Medium
Promote nature-based tourism
Enhance the environment for economic development
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DATA COLLECTION RECOMMENDATIONS This section of the Implementation Matrix identifies specific strategies by which the City might begin to fill critical gaps in available data so as to facilitate future goal setting and assessment efforts. OBJECTIVE 1
2
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Map potential locations for urban agriculture based on critical variables and available data (e.g. soil, floodplains, etc.)
Data Collection
Food
Parks and Recreation
Local Master Gardeners clubs
Medium
Document number of farms in City limits (excluding Extra-territorial Jurisdiction) and net production for each
Data Collection
Food
Development Services
TBD
Low
Map potential locations for farmer's markets based on critical variables and available data (e.g. residential density, vehicular access, etc.)
Data Collection
Food
Development Services
Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market; Metropolitan Planning Organization
High
Document number of farmers markets, number of vendors, and number of customers at each
Data Collection
Food
Parks and Recreation
Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market; Metropolitan Planning Organization
Low
Compile total electricity consumption data (from electric utility) by department (and at finer scale, i.e. individual buildings, where possible) on a quarterly basis; convert to CO2 equivalent (CO2e) to determine Green House Gas emissions from fossil-fuel-based energy consumption
Data Collection
Energy
TBD
TBD
High
Assess (annually) total onsite renewable energy generation and stand-alone renewable energy generation at municipal facilities
Data Collection
Energy
TBD
TBD
Low
Quantify (annually) electricity used to power streetlights and traffic signals and convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Energy
Engineering
TBD
Medium
Quantify (annually) electricity used in raw water collection/treatment/distribution; convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Energy
Water
TBD
Medium
Quantify electricity used in wastewater collection/treatment/distribution (per gallon); convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Energy
Wastewater
TBD
Medium
Assess fugitive methane emissions from wastewater treatment plants and convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Water
Wastewater
TBD
Low
Assess methane combustion from anaerobic digeters at wastewater treatment plants and covert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Water
Wastewater
TBD
Low
Assess NO2 production from nitrification/denitrification at wastewater treatment plants and convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Water
Wastewater
TBD
Low
Collect data from transportation emissions used to distribute food, fertilizer, chemicals and convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Food
TBD
TBD
Low
Collect data from emissions resulting from production of fertilizer and convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Food
TBD
TBD
Low
Coordinate with local or regional agricultural trade groups to assess total fertilizer application to farmland within City and ETJ; extrapolate NO2 emissions associated with this application; convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Food
TBD
TBD
Low
Monitor composition and percent mix of landfilled and diverted waste streams
Data Collection
Waste
Solid Waste
TBD
High
Assess methane production potential (annually) for existing landfills; assess methane capture capability and efficiency
Data Collection
Waste
Solid Waste
TBD
High
Provide opportunities for local food production at the neighborhood scale
Initiate long-range regional climate adaptation/sea level rise response and greenhouse gas management planning
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DATA COLLECTION RECOMMENDATIONS OBJECTIVE
3
4
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Coordinate with the Department of Motor Vehicles to compile data on vehicle types and percent mix (e.g. full, mid or compact size cars; heavy duty or light trucks; vans, motorcycles; unleaded vs. diesel) for vehicles registered in greater Corpus Christi area
Data Collection
Mobility
TBD
Department of Motor Vehicles
Low
Coordinate with the Metropolitan Planning Organization, Department of Motor Vehicles, and/or other partners to collect data on vehicle fuel economy, and number of alternative fuel vehicles
Data Collection
Mobility
TBD
Department of Motor Vehicles
Low
Coordinate with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to compile data on the number (and type, if possible) of motorized boats registered in greater City area; extrapolate aggregate fuel consumption; calculate CO 2e
Data Collection
Mobility
TBD
Texas Parks and Wildlife
Low
Compile airport data: total gallons of plane fuel used per day (extrapolate emissions; convert to CO2e); assess number of curbside passenger pickups per day and average idling time; extrapolate vehicle emissions; calculate CO 2e
Data Collection
Mobility
Airport
Federal Aviation Administration
Medium
On the scale of individual municipal buildings, quantify total volume of Hydroflourocarbons from refrigerants and fire suppression equipment; convert to CO 2e
Data Collection
Buildings
General Services
TBD
Low
Maintain database of the physical addresses of building permit recipients whose plans include pursuit of a supplemental green building certification
Data Collection
Buildings
Development Services
US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter
Medium
Maintain database of the physical addresses of building permit recipients whose plans include solar hot water heating systems (passive solar) or on-site generation of solar energy (solar photovoltaic)
Data Collection
Energy
Development Services
Texas Solar Energy Society; TX Renewable Energy Industries Association
Medium
Maintain database of the physical addresses of recipients of permits for residential or commercial scale wind turbines
Data Collection
Energy
Development Services
Texas Renewable Energy Industries Association
Medium
For building permittees whose plans include systems for rainwater capture and/or reuse, coordinate with the Water Department to capture monthly water use data in the proposed (above) database in order to track savings realized through these systems
Data Collection
Water
Development Services
Texas Rainwater Catchment Association
Low
Track pump performance at water and wastewater facilities by way of routine pump testing and monitoring
Data Collection
Water
Water; Wastewater
TBD
Medium
Enhance tracking* of energy consumption per discrete water and wastewater process steps *May necessitate installation of additional meters at pump and lift stations
Data Collection
Water
Water; Wastewater
TBD
Medium
Implement protocols for collection of municipal economic data from the Texas Labor Market Information (TRACER), Comptroller's Office, and other key sources in order to inform generation of the (proposed) annual Municipal Economic Indicator Report
Data Collection
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation; Texas Labor Market Information
High
For all future "green" construction and retrofit projects related to municipal buildings, facilities, or infrastructure, implement data collection protocols at the project level to measure Sustainable Return on Investment, including: a) cost, b) jobs generated (by month), c) economic impact compared to "standard" materials or construction methods; this information can be used to track economic impact of these efforts and measure sustainable return on investment
Data Collection
Economy
TBD
US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter
Medium
Partner with the Economic Development Corporation and Convention and Visitors Bureau to collect more accurate data about the tourist economy in Corpus Christi; in particular, consider partnering with these organizations and/or local hotels to implement a survey protocol to begin tracking: number of tourists (by season), length of stay, principal motivation for visit, average daily expenditure per capita, first time or repeat, relative satisfaction with available amenities, intention to return; survey data collection should be ongoing; compilation and analysis of results should be periodic (annual); incentives (gift or coupon) should be offered to participants to encourage participation
Data Collection
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation; Convention and Visitors Bureau; Local hotels
Medium
Promote the construction of healthier, less resourceintensive, buildings
Enhance monitoring and reporting of key economic performance indicators
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Corpus Christi Integrated Community Sustainability Plan Master Implementation Matrix
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02
01 03
04
05
06
07
08
09 DESTINATION NODES PLAN OVERVIEW
Page 08
NODE 01 - DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN Page 09
NODE 1: DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN The principal access to the heart of Downtown Corpus Christi is Highway 37/181, which, in its current form, bisects adjacent neighborhoods and creates a barrier between the northern and southern sectors of the Downtown; the proposed realignment of this corridor as part of the planned replacement of the Harbor Bridge would create an opportunity to establish a new green gateway into the City that builds upon the vision of the Downtown Vision Plan (2008), the Bayfront Master Plan (2007) and the Destination Bayfront proposal (2010) to help create a cohesive, vibrant, 24-hour mixed use urban center that is both defined by and connected to its waterfront.
OBJECTIVE 1
2
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Coordinate with the Downtown Management District and private interests who have proposals for downtown development to strengthen the SEA Town development concept (as defined in the 2008 Downtown Vision Plan)
Planning/Policy
Recreation; Economy; Knowledge/Culture
Development Services
Downtown Management District
High
Coordinate with the Economic Development Corporation and Downtown Management District to solicit proposals for residential projects in the Central Business District; look for ways to provide assistance to those that address significant goals of various initiatives and plans (e.g. support finding and providing parking, etc.)
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Economic Development Corporation; Downtown Management District
High
Develop a parking master-plan for the Downtown that is built around the concept of several linked "park once" districts
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Economy
Engineering; Development Services
Downtown Management District
High
Coordinate with private and non-profit interests to implement the phased 2010 Destination Bayfront plan: http://www.destinationbayfront.org/
Construction
Recreation; Economy; Knowledge/Culture
Development Services; Parks and Recreation
Destination Bayfront; Economic Development Corporation; Downtown Management District
High
Coordinate with TXDOT to realign IH 37/US 181 as part of the Harbor Bridge replacement
Planning/Policy; Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TxDOT
Coordinate with TxDOT to plan for the creation of a multi-modal (auto, bike, streetcar) green boulevard into downtown within the old IH 37 right-of-way after the Harbor Bridge relocation
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Economy
Engineering; Development Services
TxDOT; Regional Transportation Authority
Medium
Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to build upon the Downtown Transit Circulator Concept* to implement a feasibility study for a downtown transit circulator *Delivered under separate cover
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Economy
Engineering; Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
High
Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to implement a feasibility study for waterborne transit and, ultimately, to locate a water taxi hub within the Destination Bayfront plan area
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Economy
Engineering; Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority; Destination Bayfront
High
Revise the existing regulations for street vendors to encourage their presence in target locations as a strategy to foster pedestrian activity; eliminate the requirement that vendors be separated by 75' to promote clustering of complimentary vendor types
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
High
Partner with the existing South Side Farmer’s Market to establish regularly scheduled farmers market, perhaps in association with a larger crafts fair, in the proposed urban green district around Heritage Park
Community-based Activity
Food; Recreation; Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Community Development
Southside Corpus Christi Farmers Market
Low
Partner with T-Head and L-Head business owners, fish market owners from nearby communities (e.g. Rockport), and/or local fishermen’s organizations to establish a regularly scheduled fresh local seafood market on T-Head and/or L-Head
Community-based Activity
Food; Economy
Community Development
T-head and L-head business owners
High
Coordinate with local building owners to support the development of incubator spaces (i.e. gallery or studio space) for entrepreneurs, artists and other members of the "creative class"
Community-based Activity
Economy; Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
Downtown ArtWalk; Downtown Management District
Medium
Coordinate the physical, economic, and functional aspects of Downtown redevelopment
Enhance local/informal market economy in the Central Business District
Page 10
NODE 1: DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN OBJECTIVE 3
4
5
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Strengthen the relationship between Uptown and Downtown by beautifying and improving the functionality of the Lipan Street, Mestina Street, Leopard Street, Antelope Street, and Buffalo Street connections
Planning/Policy; Construction
Mobility
Development Services; Community Development; Parks and Recreation
Beautify Corpus Christi
High
Capitalize on the elevated view of Downtown and the waterfront from the Uptown and the Bluff by establishing scenic overlooks with amenities (e.g. benches, planters, signage, fixed spotting scopes), possibly through partnership with Beautify Corpus Christi or an equivalent community group
Construction
Recreation
Parks and Recreation
Beautify Corpus Christi
High
Capitalize on the existing urban streetscape along Staples Street to promote it as a primary north/south connection to the Uptown district; when considering proposed development projects along the Staples Street, promote mixed-use, pedestrianand transit-oriented development with a defined pedestrian connection to the Staples Street transit station
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Economy
Development Services
TBD
Medium
Establish a designated, safe pedestrian connection between the adjacent neighborhood, the elementary schools, and the existing library
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness
Development Services
TBD
Medium
After the proposed re-alignment of the Harbor Bridge, enhance the Staples Street bridge over the current IH 37 right-ofway to create a scenic vantage over the (proposed) green gateway into Downtown and to foster pedestrian/bike connection between the transit-oriented development (TOD) hub around the Staples Street trasit station and the neighborhoods to the west
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Beautify Corpus Christi
Low
Coordinate with the Downtown Management District to identify candidate buildings for rehabilitation
Planning/Policy
Buildings
Development Services
Downtown Management District
Medium
Foster private-public partnerships to spur reuse of existing structures, in general, and landmark structures, in particular (e.g. old Federal courthouse)
Planning/Policy
Buildings
Development Services
Downtown Management District
Low
Explore options for condemning blighted properties; capitalize on the availability of grant funds through the City's Brownfields Redevelopment Program to implement Phase I and Phase II assessments to promote re-development
Community-based Activity
Economy
Development Services
Uptown Neighborhood Initiative; Downtown Management District
High
Establish a Green Building Overlay in the Central Business District, under which incentives (e.g. fast track permitting, tax incentives) are offered for voluntary adoption of a referenced green building standard
Planning/Policy
Buildings
Development Services
Downtown Management District
Low
Coordinate with the Downtown Management District and private interests to provide short-term (i.e. one week to three month leases) of the ground floor (frontage) in vacant buildings in key locations in order to activate downtown streetscapes and stimulate economic growth
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Downtown Management District
Medium
Investigate the potential to open and operate the existing tunnel under the bluff for special events or to lease the existing retail space as a bar* *If implemented in tandem with other recommended enhancements of La Retama park, this could create a novel nighttime attraction that would bring enough activity (i.e. "eyes on the street") to alleviate safety concerns
Community-based Activity; Construction
Economy
TBD
Downtown Management District
Low
Enhance the Bluff as a distinct geographic feature within the Downtown/Uptown Destination Node
Promote transit-oriented development (TOD) around City Hall
Capitalize on opportunities for vacant lot and building rehab and reuse
Page 11
NODE 1: DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN OBJECTIVE 6
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Install new, brightly colored trash and recycling receptacles in prominent but unobtrusive locations at all major intersections
Community-based Activity
Waste
Solid Waste
Pride Corpus Christi
High
Prioritize enhancement of pocket parks along Shoreline Boulevard and Chapparal Street with additional amenities (e.g. barb-que stations, benches, shade structures, exercise stations, play structures for children)
Construction
Recreation
Parks and Recreation
Beautify Corpus Christi
Medium
Coordinate with Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Oyster Shell Recycling Program to facilitate collection of oyster shell from seafood restaurants downtown and on the T and L heads
Community-based Activity
Waste
Solid Waste
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Oyster Shell Recycling Program
Low
Coordinate with local chapter of the Surfrider Foundation and with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program to implement a storm drain stenciling campaign
Community-based Activity
Natural Resources; Water
Community Development
Surfrider Foundation; Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program
Medium
Partner with community outreach specialists at local education institutions and historical societies to enhance downtown interpretive signage regarding City maritime history, natural history, green initiatives, and unique environmental features (particularly along the waterfront)
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture; Natural Resources
Community Development
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History; Convention and Visitors Bureau
Medium
Coordinate with the Downtown Managament District, Peoples Street business owners, organizers of the Downtown ArtWalk, and other partners to improve La Retama Park (e.g. remove the large planter by the tunnel opening, hang festive lights and/or banners, construct a stage, encourage street vendors), institute free programming (e.g. outdoor movie screenings, concerts) and promote it as a downtown destination to encourage pedestrian traffic and support bugeoning redevelopment on Peoples Street
Community-based Activity
Recreation; Economy
Parks and Recreation
Downtown ArtWalk; Peoples Street business owners; Downtown Management District
High
Coordinate with the Beautify Corpus Christi to improve Artesian Park (e.g. hang festive lights and/or banners, encourage street vendors), institute free programming (e.g. outdoor movie screenings, concerts) and promote it as a downtown destination to encourage pedestrian traffic in support of nearby businesses
Community-based Activity
Recreation; Economy
Parks and Recreation
Beautify Corpus Christi; Downtown Management District
High
Create an urban garden district (inspired by the Garden District in New Orleans) around Heritage Park with a reliable connection to public transit (downtown circulator and broader Regional Transportation Authority service)
Planning/Policy
Economy; Recreation
Development Services
Downtown Management District
Low
Establish private/public partnerships with downtown land owners and local renewable energy interests to plan, design, and install demonstration projects in prominent locations
Community-based Activity
Energy; Economy
Engineering; Development Services
TBD
Medium
Rejuvenate the downtown identity by launching a Green City campaign
Page 12
NODE 02 - ANNAVILLE Page 13
NODE 2: ANNAVILLE A few minutes drive from downtown Corpus Christi, the Annaville neighborhood is a quiet riverside district with a distinct rural character. The Leopard Street corridor and adjacent development between McKenzie Road and Violet Road includes stable neighborhoods, a commercial corridor, schools, parks, civic institutions, and other components of an exurban satellite destination. Median household income and residential density are typical of the City averages. The concept for this Node pays homage to a slower "down-by-the-river" pace of life and the ranch-inspired character of this community to create a destination that offers a flavor of the South Texas experience that generally can’t be found in Corpus Christi proper.
OBJECTIVE 1
2
3
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Coordinate with the Regional Transportation Authority regarding their planned service expansion (including express bus connection to downtown Corpus Christi) in order to assess the need to establish a regular transit connections between Annaville and key destination (e.g. airport)
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority; Metropolitan Planning Organization
Medium
Develop a multi-modal mobility plan for the entire Annaville community; designate safe routes to schools and civic institutions to foster pedestrian and bike connections between these locations and adjacent residential neighborhoods
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness
Community Development; Engineering
Regional Transportation Authority; Metropolitan Planning Organization
Medium
Coordinate with TxDOT regarding scheduled maintenance activieies and/or improvements associated with private development to identify ways to reduce the functional speed limit to 35MPH on Leopard Street between McKenzie Road and Violet Road; assess the opportunities for a "road diet," involving traffic calming and a "complete street" design approach
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Engineering
TxDOT
High
Partner with Annaville-based community groups or youth organizations to install landscaping in the median along the stretch of Leopard Street between McKenzie Road and Violet Road; establish "Adopt-A-Highway" program to foster long-term stewardship
Construction; Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
TxDOT; Beautify Corpus Christi
Medium
Coordinate with the Chamber of Commerce and/or the Convention and Visitors Bureau to assess the marketability of a designated bed-and-breakfast district on the northwest side of I-37
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Chamber of Commerce; Convention and Visitors Bureau
Medium
Partner with Texas Heritage Society or similar entity to establish a South Texas Heritage Center and Annaville Visitor’s Center in connection with the existing public library and proposed gateway landmark at the intersection of Leopard Street and McKenzie Road
Planning/Policy; Construction
Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Community Development; Parks and Recreation
Texas Heritage Society
Low
Collaborate with the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce or an equivalent entity to identify commercial services presently missing from the community; promote infill and small business development along Leopard Street that provides these key services
Planning/Policy
Economy
Community Development
Chamber of Commerce
Medium
Vision, plan and re-zone the Leopard Street corridor between Violet Road and McKenzie Road as a walkable, mixed-use "Main Street"
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Economy
Community Development
TBD
High
Designate re-commissioned City pocket parks (two opportunity sites) or other available City parcels for community gardens; work with neighborhood or community groups or local institutions to foster investment and to identify sponsors
Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity
Food; Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Parks and Recreation
Local Master Gardeners clubs
Medium
Facilitate private/public partnerships to establish a regular community farmer’s market along Leopard Street corridor
Community-based Activity
Food; Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Community Development
Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market
High
Plan multi-use open spaces to serve as recreational use areas and stormwater dry detention/conveyance
Planning/Policy
Recreation
Engineering; Parks and Recreation
TBD
Medium
Designate non-development uses (off-road trails, recreational open space, community gardens) for floodplain
Planning/Policy
Natural Resources
Development Services
TBD
Medium
Maintain a riparian buffer of native vegetation along the river to provide habitat, protect water quality, and enhance the rural character of the community
Planning/Policy
Natural Resources
Development Services
The Nature Conservancy or other environmental nonprofits or land trusts
High
Improve regional multi-modal transportation options and internal connectivity
Define the Annaville destination
Build complete neighborhoods
Page 14
NODE 03 - MORGAN AVENUE/BALDWIN BOULEVARD Page 15
NODE 3: MORGAN AVENUE/BALDWIN BOULEVARD The intersection of Morgan Avenue and Baldwin Boulevard is an important, albeit underdeveloped, hub that is central to the rich cultural fabric of Corpus Christi’s Westside. The orientation of the major thoroughfares creates unique spatial opportunities for civic activities and community functions. Median household income in this Node is lower than the City average while density is somewhat higher than average. The Node includes two elementary schools, a state school, an adult learning center, and a senior center. The concept plan for this Destination Node reinforces the current diverse ethnic character of the neighborhood and celebrates its cultural identity. Grassroots, Community-based programs and opportunities are emphasized to encourage participation by as many individuals and groups as possible and to foster investment and active buy-in among residents and businesses.
OBJECTIVE 1
2
3
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Repair and widen sidewalks (to a minimum width of 5 feet throughout the Node and wider in high-traffic areas); install sidewalks where they are currently absent; focus initially on high-traffic areas and key community locations, such as the senior center, recreational center, industrial school, Mercado, etc.)
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
High
Develop a bike mobility plan for the entire Node to include designated stand-alone bike paths, striped and buffered on-street bike lanes, and signed bike routes throughout; construct on-street bike lanes in key high-traffic locations to enhance connectivity between existing community gathering places
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
Metropolitan Planning Organization
Medium
Partner with the Regional Transportation Authority to establish additional bus routes, where effective, as well as additional bus stops along high-volume routes; enhance the accessibility, comfort, safety and physical character of existing stops
Planning/Policy; Construction
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
High
Partner with Beautify Corpus Christi or similar organizations to sponsor a competition among different classes or clubs at the multiple neighborhood schools to decorate (paint) the shelters and/of benches at neighborhood stops
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
Beautify Corpus Christi
Medium
Partner with Beautify Corpus Christi or a similar organization to sponsor a neighborhood yard and garden competition
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
Beautify Corpus Christi; Local Master Gardener clubs
Low
Develop an urban agriculture program for this Node, including formal education and training programs; designate (and invest in) community gardens on undeveloped City-owned property and/or re-commissioned pocket parks; partner with local church groups or senior center to provide oversight
Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity
Food; Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Parks and Recreation
Local Master Gardener clubs
Medium
Partner with neighborhood church or community groups to plan a formal neighborhood Latin American Cultural Festival; provide support in the form of police presence, street closure, vendor permits, and announcements on the City web-site and other City forums
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
TBD
High
Reduce travel lanes on Morgan Avenue and Baldwin Boulevard and designate bike lanes along the outside edge of the street sections; design these to be protected from adjacent traffic by way of a painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
High
Redesign intersection with roundabout configuration* *See Roundabout Implementation Plan (delivered under separate cover)
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
Medium
Solicit sponsorship from a community arts organization to commission a local artist to create a centerpiece for the roundabout that reflects the cultural identity and character of the neighborhood
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
TBD
Low
Facilitate private/public partnership to establish a Mercado on the vacant land immediately west of the proposed roundabout in order to activate the intersection as a focal point for the neighborhood
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Development Services; Community Development
TBD
Medium
Enhance walkability and connectivity throughout the Node
Work to increase grassroots community participation and investment
Reconfigure the Morgan Avenue/Baldwin Boulevard intersection to facilitate multiple forms of mobility, increase safety and utility, and enhance the overall sense of place
Page 16
NODE 3: MORGAN AVENUE/BALDWIN BOULEVARD OBJECTIVE 4
5
6
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Invite participation from Beautify Corpus Christi, Arbor Day Foundation, or equivalent non-profit to identify target neighborhoods, provide local education programs, distribute trees and provide technical assistance in planting and maintaining them
Community-based Activity
Energy; Natural Resources
Community Development
Arbor Day Foundation; Beautify Corpus Christi
Medium
Explore the opportunity to convert vacant land on Highland Avenue and Morgan Avenue to community gardens
Community-based Activity
Food
Parks and Recreation; Development Services
Local Master Gardeners clubs
High
Establish farmer's market as part of proposed Mercado on the vacant land immediately west of the proposed roundabout
Community-based Activity
Food
Food
Corpus Christi South Side Farmers Market
Medium
Partner with community organizations (those who sponsor community gardens) to establish pilot compost collection program
Community-based Activity
Waste
Solid Waste
TBD
Low
Partner with existing Adult Learning Center and Senior Center on Morgan Avenue to enhance non-traditional learning opportunities for older residents
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture; Economy
Community Development
Adult Learning Center and Senior Center
Low
Enhance urban tree canopy to help mitigate urban heatisland effect, reinforce stormwater systems, shade and cool adjacent buildings, provide on-site habitat, and generally enhance the physical and aesthetic character of the Node
Establish pilot City-sponsored compost program
Support age-in-place approach to family and community
Page 17
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NODE 04 - SIX POINTS Page 18
NODE 4: SIX POINTS The Ayers Street corridor between the East Campus of Del Mar College and Shoreline Drive is anchored by two key employment centers and already includes a transit hub and multiple commercial enclaves. The concept plan for this Node capitalizes on the presence of these two activity generators (Del Mar East and Christus Spohn Hospital Complex) and promotes their continued growth by expanding the commercial services, mobility options, and housing available along the corridor.
OBJECTIVE 1
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Work with the Regional Transportation Authority to enhance transit service to the existing transit station*
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
High
Re-align the Six Points intersection by eliminating the sixth point (the leg of Alameda Street that is north of Ayers Street) in order to: simplify the functionality of the intersection, prevent dangerous situations in which cars queue with the intention of turning left onto the Alameda Street, create a larger area of contiguous property in order to foster cohesive commercial redevelopment
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TxDOT
Medium
South of Baldwin Boulevard (16,600 average daily trips (ADT)), Alternative 1: Reduce the street from a 5-lane section to 3 lanes; center turn lane becomes an intermittent landscaped median in locations where turning movement is not required; designate bike lanes on the outside edge of the street sections that are protected from adjacent traffic by way of a painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
High
South of Baldwin Boulevard (16,600 ADT), Alternative 2: Create on-street parking in locations along Ayers Street where commercial frontage is proposed (see rendering), particularly near the Baldwin Boulevard intersection on the west side of Del Mar College, where there is an opportunity to develop live-work units; without the on-street parking, town homes would be a more appropriate format for these units
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
High
Between the Ayers Street/Port Avenue and the Ayers Street/Baldwin Boulevard intersections, move the curb line inward several feet, effectively narrowing lane width to control traffic speeds and to accommodate an off-street, shared-use path that would be 12 feet in width
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
Low
North of Baldwin Boulevard, average daily traffic counts drop (5,600 ADT); convert the existing 4-lane section to a 3-lane section that includes a center turn lane and designated bike lanes on the outside edges of the roadway; protect these from adjacent traffic with a painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
High
Designate a “safe route to school� between Ayers Street and Travis Elementary School to the west; as opportunities arise, widen sidewalk along this route to a width of 10 feet to accommodate student travel
Construction
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
High
Partner with Economic Development Corporation to study the potential for new food options in these locations, including a full-service grocery or urban market and new restaurants
Planning/Policy
Food
Development Services
Economic Development Corporation
High
Create transit-oriented development (TOD) centered round the Six Points Regional Transportation Authority transit station
*According to the Regional Transportation Authority, the current station is at capacity; consider assessing the feasibility of relocating the station across Staples to the larger, triangle-shaped property, which would allow buses to pull in off the streets to access the station
2
Create a mixed-use hub to serve the Del Mar Community College population and the surrounding neighborhoods with an emphasis on expanding housing options within walking distance of basic services and the College campus
Page 19
NODE 4: SIX POINTS OBJECTIVE
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Make the most of the shallow lot depths on the property west of Del Mar campus by promoting a live/work format* to simultaneously attract new commercial services (dry cleaner, copy service) and provide student housing within walking distance of the campus**
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
Medium
As redevelopment opportunities arise, redirect commercial land uses currently located further south on Ayers Street to this mixed-use center in order to allow for the natural conversion of marginal commercial uses in the district to more appropriate uses, possibly single- and multi-family residential
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
Low
Promote mixed-use infill development and redevelopment along Ayers Street between Six Points and Del Mar with an emphasis on rehabilitation of buildings that address the street; the old ButterKrust facility is a notable opportunity, although the site includes very little dedicated parking*
Planning/Policy
Building
Development Services
TBD
Medium
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
Low
*Provision of on-street parking along Ayers Street would support a live-work format; if this parking is not implemented, a townhome format may be more appropriate to this location; townhouses and live/work units have similar footprints and forms but different functional characteristics ** Parking is in short supply on Del Mar East Campus; increased availability of nearby student housing would help alleviate traffic/parking issue at the College by reducing the number of students who commute by automobile
*This shortage of dedicated parking could present an opportunity for the creation of a coordinated district parking plan Foster the location/relocation of complimentary services (e.g. doctor’s offices and clinics, labs, surgery centers, medical supply stores, pharmacies, etc.) into this district to reinforce the district identity and to provide the market base to support the burgeoning commercial enclave at Six Points and further down Ayers Street; develop a coordinated parking plan for the entire district
Page 20
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NODE 05 - BEAR LANE Page 21
NODE 5: BEAR LANE The quadrant on the north side of South Padre Island Drive between Bear Lane and Old Brownsville Road is home to one of the largest employers in Corpus Christi (First Data), yet the surrounding land is almost entirely undeveloped and there are currently no basic services or amenities available to the thousands of employees who commute to this location daily. As such, the concept plan for this Node focuses, in large part, on fostering infill development that capitalizes on the accessibility of the site and existing employment uses to create a thriving mixed-use, data-oriented, regional employment center. This Node is also distinguished by the presence of two public schools, the presence of which highlights opportunities to integrate higher density (multi-family) residential development with enhanced connections to the schools and to potential locations for service-oriented infill development. OBJECTIVE 1
2
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Work with the Economic Development Corporation to recruit complementary and supportive professional employment opportunities
Planning/Policy
Economy
TBD
Economic Development Corporation
High
Partner with Goodwill Industries and/or other entities engaged in electronics recycling to establish an electronics recycling pilot program to assess the feasibility of a larger scale program
Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity
Waste; Economy
Solid Waste
Goodwill Industries
Medium
Explore the potential for district heating and cooling within all or some designated parts of the Node; in particular look at the opportunities to use combined heating and power systems derived from geothermal applications
Planning/Policy
Economy; Energy
Engineering
TBD
Low
Explore the potential to integrate renewable energy systems into the development of all or some parts of the Node, or into individual buildings and structures; assess the economic and operational viability of solar, wind and geothermal operations
Planning/Policy
Economy; Energy
Engineering
AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society; Corpus Christi Builders Association
Low
Work with the Economic Development Corporation to foster commercial infill development to provide support services to professionals working within the Node (e.g. restaurants, shops, dry cleaners, etc.)
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Economic Development Corporation
High
Partner with land and business owners within the Node to install outdoor gathering/recreation features (e.g. shade structures with picnic tables for outdoor eating, walking/jogging trails for lunchtime exercise, communal wildflower garden)
Construction
Recreation
Parks and Recreation
TBD
Medium
Encourage development of a daycare facility and/or child care operation to serve the professionals at the employment centers in the node; explore the potential to secure and utilize grant funds to offer subsidized child care for employees within the Node so as to foster parent-child contact time
Planning/Policy
Economy; Health/Safety
Community Development
TBD
High
Work with administrators and faculty at the West Oso Elementary and/or High School to develop a urban agriculture program on or adjacent to school property and formally integrated into the school curriculum
Planning/Policy
Economy; Food; Recreation
Parks and Recreation
School Board
Medium
Promote high density residential/mixed use development adjacent to both schools within the Node to establish the schools as neighborhood focal points and activity centers and facilitate walking/biking connections
Planning/Policy
Health/Safety/Wellness; Mobility; Knowledge/Culture; Recreation
Development Services
TBD
Medium
Work with the Economic Development Corporation to plan for the development of additional hotels and/or extended stay accommodations within the Node to meet the needs of visiting professionals and create an incentive for development by business entities with a regional or national presence; incentivize development to work within the overall planning framework for the node to encourage pedestrian activity and park-once districts
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Economic Development Corporation
Low
Capitalize on the presence of existing businesses to create a regional Data Management Employment Center
Expand the amenities and services immediately available to professionals and residents currently working and living in the Node
Page 22
NODE 5: BEAR LANE OBJECTIVE 3
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Designate the location for a future public fast-fill CNG fueling station and begin to pursue supplemental funds
Planning/Policy; Construction
Mobility; Economy
Gas
TBD
Medium
Assess need for a charging station for plug-in electric hybrid vehicle
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Engineering
TBD
Low
Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to establish a park-and-ride service connection to the airport and other priority locations from which professionals commute (on basis of findings from needs assessment)
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
High
In order to support the Data Management Employment Center concept, and to foster efficient use of available land and to enhance the walkability of the Node, prepare a Node-wide parking plan structured around the concept of "park-once" parking districts that carefully integrates the full range of options: on-street, surface lots, parking structures; prepare design guidelines for all three conditions, as well as locational criteria
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services; Engineering
TBD
Low
Capitalize on existing highway access to plan for multi-modal transportation service and alternative fuel vehicles
Page 23
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NODE 06 - WEBER ROAD/SARATOGA BOULEVARD Page 24
NODE 6: WEBER ROAD/SARATOGA BOULEVARD The intersection of Weber Road and Saratoga Boulevard is representative of many of the major intersections along Southside corridors, wherein strip commercial development is surrounded by, but not connected to, residential development. The concept plan for this Node aims not to replace the auto-urban/suburban lifestyle but rather to enhance transportation options by fostering pedestrian and bicycle connections within the discrete quadrants of the node, and expanding the mix of uses, particularly with respect to residential types. Additional outdoor gathering and recreation spaces are intended to promote neighborhood cohesion and overall wellness among residents.
OBJECTIVE 1
2
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
As rezoning opportunities arise, establish a general gradient in land use intensity and density from a peak at the commercial core to lowest level at the single-family fringe of each quadrant; provide for a judicious and harmonious mix of uses, focusing on a range of residential types, but facilitating the development of effective, neighborhood-serving commercial and retail uses
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
High
Designate pedestrian paths and bike routes/lanes/paths to establish safe, effective non-vehicular connections between the commercial center of the Node and the residential development within the quadrant
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness
Development Services
TBD
High
Planning/Policy; Construction
Mobility; Recreation
Development Services; Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Create gateway parks in the highest density residential section of each of the quadrants; where effective, place parks adjacent to neighborhood-serving retail and restaurants and develop an integrated district approach to meeting parking requirements
Construction
Recreation
Parks and Recreation
TBD
Low
Designate vacant City property and/or re-commissioned City parks as locations for community gardens; work with neighborhood or community groups or local institutions to foster investment and to identify sponsors
Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity
Food
Parks and Recreation; Community Development
Local Master Gardener clubs
High
Promote alley-fed, single-family residential development as part of a broader strategy to foster safe, active, and efficient neighborhoods
Planning/Policy
Economy; Health/Safety/Wellness
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Work with land owners and environmental non-profit partners to promote preservation in perpetuity of a riparian buffer along the Oso Creek by way of a deed restriction, conservation easement, or equivalent legal vehicle; uses within the buffer should be limited to non-development recreation use (e.g. off-road trails, wildlife viewing)
Planning/Policy
Natural Resources; Recreation; Knowledge/Culture; Health/Safety/Wellness
Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Assess the feasibility of designating the mowed/maintained vehicle right-of-ways around the perimeter of the property behind the Corpus Christi Natatorium, northeast of Cabaniss Field, as part of an off-road trail network*, including installation of a trail head (potentially on Cabaniss Parkway across from the Natatorium parking lot) as well as some complementary facilities (e.g. BMX dirt bike (non-motorized) park)
Construction
Natural Resources; Recreation
Parks and Recreation
Corpus Christi Independent School District; Naval Air Station Corpus Christi
High
Construction
Natural Resources; Recreation; Knowledge/Culture
Parks and Recreation
Naval Air Station Corpus Christi; Coastal Bend Sierra Club
Medium
Expand the mix of development (commercial, multi-family, single family) within each quadrant of the Node
Provide multiple forms of connectivity within each quadrant and between quadrants at key locations
Establish greenway connections from each quadrant to the regional recreation and trail system* *See Hike-Bike Trails Concept Plan delivered under separate cover
3
4
Enhance opportunities for outdoor gatherings, active recreation, and activities to build community
Capitalize on large areas of contiguous natural open space to enhance recreational and conservation opportunities
*See Hike-Bike Trails Concept Plan (delivered under separate cover) Establish partnership with Naval Air Station Corpus Christi (owner of Cabaniss Field) to assess the feasibility of establishing a network of off-road (non-paved) nature trails in vegetated habitat around the air field facilities; partner with local chapter of the Sierra Club and/or other non-profits to construct wildlife viewing stations with fixed spotting scopes and interpretive signage about native flora and fauna
Page 25
NODE 07 - SUNRISE MALL Page 26
NODE 7: SUNRISE MALL Formerly a prominent commercial center at the geographic heart of the City, the Sunrise Mall has been overshadowed in recent years by the more contemporary La Palmera Mall and the more utilitarian Moore Plaza. Because of its central location and regional accessibility, the Sunrise Mall property—currently for sale at a very competitive price—is an ideal location for a walkable, mixed-use town center that would serve as an archetype for state-of-the-art development in Corpus Christi. The concept plan for this Node capitalizes on the high visibility and favorable orientation of the site for a self-contained, "net zero" campus that is a declaration of Corpus Christi’s place in the renewable energy marketplace and would serve as a learning laboratory for those interested in keeping the City is this position. OBJECTIVE 1
2
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Implement a form-based code (under an overlay designation) to allow maximum flexibility in land use types (office, specialty retail, commercial, residential, educational) while maintaining architectural, aesthetic and functional cohesion and adherence to an overarching vision
Planning/Policy
Buildings
Development Services
TBD
High
Facilitate the creation of a vision for the proposed town-center development, which will support subsequent masterplanning, urban design, and coding to establish guidelines and covenants that will help facilitate the implementation of this vision
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
High
Coordinate with the Economic Development Corporation to establish incentives and recruit private investors to implement select components of the master plan
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Economic Development Corporation
High
Coordinate with the Regional Transportation Authority* to establish interior transit stops and connections *Regional Transportation Authority staff expressed strong support for this concept during the preliminary planning for the reuse of this site
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
Medium
Treat the entire site as an integrated "park once" environment and develop a comprehensive parking plan that integrates onstreet, surface lot and structured parking options into a coherent organization that supports the underlying goals of optimizing the efficient use of land, promoting pedestrian- and bicycle-mobility, and facilitating a wide range of lowimpact development approaches *Two parking structures exist on the site and should be prioritized for re-use in the interest energy and resource efficiency
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
TBD
Medium
In the vision and master planning/policy processes, prioritize consideration of the potential for solar and wind energy production
Planning/Policy
Energy
Development Services
AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society; Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Establish green building and "net zero" energy covenants (under an overlay district)
Planning/Policy
Energy
Development Services
US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter
Medium
Partner with renewable energy interests to install demonstration projects (wind, solar, geothermal) on site; capitalize on the installation of these features by establishing interpretive stations for public learning and outreach
Planning/Policy
Energy
Development Services; Community Development
US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter
Medium
Partner with Texas A&M University Corpus Christi and Del Mar College to create a learning laboratory for renewable energy technology; include designated classroom and “smart” audio/visual rooms and/or meeting spaces in the master plan
Planning/Policy
Energy; Knowledge/Culture
Development Services; Community Development
US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter; Texas A&M Corpus Christi; Del Mar College
Medium
In the vision and master planning/policy processes, prioritize integrated water resource management techniques, including: water conserving fixtures, rainwater harvesting for non-potable uses, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) condensate capture, on-site stormwater management (net zero runoff)
Planning/Policy
Water
Development Services
US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter
Medium
Locate (City Gas Department) a public Compressed Natural Gas fast-fill fueling station on-site
Construction
Energy; Air; Economy
Gas
TBD
Medium
Facilitate public-private partnerships to define a collaborative and innovative vision to guide development of the site
Capitalize on the site’s visibility to create a showcase and learning laboratory for renewable energy and other green technologies
Page 27
NODE 08 - FLOUR BLUFF Page 28
NODE 8: FLOUR BLUFF The Flour Bluff Node currently includes strip-style retail and commercial development along the SPID corridor that is bordered to the south by single and multi-family residential development. The concept plan for this Node focuses, in large part, on integrating neighborhood-scale commercial development and enhancing non-vehicular connections between key amenities and between the residential neighborhoods and nearby commercial development. The recommended actions are also intended to build upon the existing bigbox retail to create more cohesive commercial development that takes advantage of shared parking and maximizes the street presence of the buildings.
OBJECTIVE 1
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Assess the feasibility of re-commissioning the deteriorating Holly Road roadbed between Flour Bluff Drive and the Cayo de Oso as a City-owned, off-road trail (forest road) and public coastal nature park; key steps would include regrading/removal of deteriorating asphalt and the installation of basic infrastructure, including picnic tables, trash/recycling receptacles, and signage
Construction
Recreation
Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Planning/Policy
Recreation; Mobility
Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Promote infill of single family residential development on already platted parcels between Division Road and Don Patricio Road on the west side of Waldron Road; this neighborhood is within the walk/bike shed of the concentration of Flour Bluff ISD schools at Purdue Road and Waldron Road
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
Medium
Promote additional multi-family residential projects southwest of the intersection of Waldron Road and Compton Road, where residents have immediate access to Parker Park; depending on ownership and intended use, the wetland feature and associated habitat to the west of the existing multi-family housing could be enhanced with interpretive trails, wildlife viewing stations, etc. to provide an additional recreational amenity to residents and visitors
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
Medium
When re-development or transfer of ownership opportunities arise, reduce the proportion of surface parking at the strip commercial centers; encourage and proposed alteration of site design to enhance the separation between pedestrian and vehicular realms
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
Low
Promote neighborhood-serving commercial infill on vacant parcels along Waldron Road in order to provide basic neighborhood services and promote walkable neighborhood connections
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
TBD
High
Coordinate with AEP Texas or TX Solar Energy Society to assess solar energy generation capacity of the existing housing stock
Planning/Policy
Energy
Community Development
AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society
Low
Encourage applicants for construction permits for platted, single-family residential lots between Division Road and Don Patricio Road to capitalize on favorable lot orientation by installing rooftop solar systems (solar photovoltaics or passive water heating systems); coordinate with AEP Texas to deliver information about available rebates and incentives
Planning/Policy
Energy; Economy
Development Services
AEP Texas; Corpus Christi Builders Association
High
Capitalize on favorable environmental conditions and the pioneering interest in wind energy demonstrated by Flour Bluff residents to encourage installation of residential-scale turbines (under the City’s new wind ordinance) by applicants for construction permits in this area
Planning/Policy
Energy; Economy
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association
High
Foster bike and pedestrian connections between key amenities and between residential and commercial development
Capitalize on existing easements for drainage channels (e.g. between Knickerbocker Street and Graham Street) as well as any opportunities for land acquisition or roadway re-alignment to create a designated multi-use trail connection* between the Cayo de Oso (at Holly Road) and the Laguna Madre with intermediary connections to the Cayo de Oso (at Holly Road) at Wranosky Park (location of planned skate park) and Parker Park (basketball, tennis, and swimming facilities, picnic area, senior center) *See supplemental Hike-Bike Trails Concept Plan (delivered under separate cover)
2
3
4
Promote residential infill in existing neighborhoods to create pockets of density and enhance mix of residential types
Enhance the cohesion of the commercial development along South Padre Island Drive and Waldron Road corridors
Capitalize on environmental conditions and Do-It-Yourself neighborhood character to promote on-site renewable energy generation (with a focus on solar and residentialscale wind turbines)
Page 29
NODE 09 - THE ISLAND Page 30
NODE 9: THE ISLAND The principal concept behind the proposed plans for the Island Destination Node is the creation of a low-impact, context-sensitive beach destination that affords visitors and residents alike a wide range of recreation options and an enhanced sense of connection to the unique natural amenities of a South Texas barrier island. The current automobile-dependent character of the development on the northern end of Padre Island serves as a challenge to enhance nonvehicular transportation options to foster a simpler, slower island feel. OBJECTIVE 1
2
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to assess the utility of a designated (year-round or seasonal) Island Circulator, possibly making use of de-commissioned downtown trolleys after the implementation of a downtown streetcar system
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
High
Coordinate with the Regional Transportation Authority to establish park-and-ride routes to key attraction; investigate candidate sites for park-and-ride lots in Flour Bluff along the HW 361 corridor and on the Island at the base of the JFK Causeway
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Regional Transportation Authority
Low
Capitalize on the recently passed ordinance to coordinate with the Corpus Christi Police Department and TxDOT to designate golf cart paths, signage, and to make provisions for safe interactions between carts and automobiles
Planning/Policy
Mobility
Development Services
Corpus Christi Police Department; TxDOT
High
Prioritize the designation of a multi-use trail network (bike, pedestrian, and golf carts) to connect neighborhood green spaces, commercial enclaves, and coastal/waterfront recreation areas
Planning/Policy
Mobility; Recreation
Parks and Recreation
TBD
High
Along Park Road 22, designate stand-alone bike paths or on-street bike lanes that are protected from adjacent traffic by way of a painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)
Construction
Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness
Engineering
TBD
High
Plan for safe pedestrian/cyclist/golf cart travel during the design and construction of the proposed Park Road 22 bridge
Construction
Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness
Engineering
TBD
Medium
Coordinate with Padre Island National Seashore, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and/or other area environmental non-profits to provide interpretive signage--preferably with a uniform appearance to enhance the sense of place and identity on the within the node--about ecological features/habitats
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture
Parks and Recreation
Padre Island National Seashore; US Fish and Wildlife Service
Medium
Coordinate with Padre Island National Seashore, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and/or other area environmental non-profits to establish observation stations and/or wildlife viewing area with fixed spotting scopes, interpretive signage, benches/picnic tables etc. at accessible points along Packery Channel
Construction; Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture; Recreation
Parks and Recreation
Padre Island National Seashore; US Fish and Wildlife Service
Medium
Coordinate with Padre Island National Seashore, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and/or other area environmental nonprofits to establish regular, year-round or seasonal, tours, lectures, educational programs and/or other offerings that highlight the unique natural features of the island
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture; Recreation
Parks and Recreation
Padre Island National Seashore; Convention and Visitors Bureau
Low
Partner with the Convention and Visitors Bureau and/or the Padre Island Business Association to establish an Island Fun Team, with paid staff tasked with traveling around the tourist district in distinct vehicles (e.g. Segways or decorated golf carts), to serve tourists and promote local businesses by distributing flyers and coupons, promoting local activities, and answering questions
Community-based Activity
Knowledge/Culture; Recreation
Community Development; Parks and Recreation
Padre Island Business Association; Convention and Visitors Bureau
Low
Expand mobility options with an emphasis on alternatives to private cars
Promote the recreational opportunities afforded by access to unique natural amenities
Page 31
NODE 9: THE ISLAND
OBJECTIVE 3
4
STRATEGY (ACTIVITY)
ACTIVITY CATEGORY
ELEMENT
ADMINISTRATION
POTENTIAL PARTNERS
PRIORITY
Establish gateways to the Island Destination Node with a distinct landmark features along Park Road 22
Construction
Knowledge/Culture
Community Development
TxDOT; Beautify Corpus Christi
Medium
Revise the existing Island Overlay District to provide incentives (e.g. fast track permitting, tax incentives) for voluntary adoption of a reference green building standard with an emphasis on fresh water conservation and on-site stormwater infiltration
Planning/Policy
Building; Natural Resources
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Promote externally accessible and internally walkable pockets of mixed-use commercial and retail development along Park Road 22
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Padre Island Business Association
Medium
Promote (via entitlements, fast-track permitting and other incentives, and/or subsidies) smaller-scale retail and neighborhoodoriented business at the intersections of Park Road 22 and key neighborhood streets so as to provide a transitional buffer between business and residential uses, and make supportive commercial uses more accessible to adjacent residents
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Padre Island Business Association
Medium
Promote low- to mid-rise multi-family residential immediately west of Park Road 22 in order to created pockets of density to support the development of more robust, pedestrian-oriented commercial clusters
Planning/Policy
Economy
Development Services
Corpus Christi Builders Association
Medium
Capitalize on the distinct character of the “The Island� to create a complete destination
Promote additional business infill development to create a complete community in which (permanent) residents live, work, and play
Page 32
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