Historic Manheim Park Development Strategy

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Manheim Park Development Strategy Kansas City, MO

March 28, 2013


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

Introduction 1

How to Use This Document Existing Plans and Ongoing Initiatives

03 04

CHAPTER 2

Development Concepts

Green Impact Zone Concept Manheim Park Neighborhood Concept Bancroft Activity Center Concept Incremental Development Flexible Housing Mix Key Design Strategies

9

12 14 16 18 20 22

CHAPTER 3

Perfomance Guidelines

25

Process Framework

51

Building Sustainably Diverse Housing Options Cultural Heritage and Neighborhood Fabric Open Space and Public Space Physical Infrastructure Access to Jobs and Services Safe and Healthy Living Accessibility and Universal Design Integrated Services and Amenities Capacity Building, Skill Training, and Workforce Development Coordination of Development, Infrastructure, and Services CHAPTER 4

Development Stakeholders and Relationships Engagement Process Development Process

28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48

52 54 56

APPENDIX

Health Impact Assessment

59


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INTRODUCTION | 1

CHAPTER 1

Introduction


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INTRODUCTION Since its inception in 2009, the Green Impact Zone has increased the capacity of neighborhood organizations, coordinated policy action, and facilitated development and infrastructure investments with the vision of transforming the neighborhoods within the Zone (roughly bounded by 39th Street to the north, 51st Street to the south, Troost Avenue to the west, and Prospect Avenue to the east) into vibrant, green, and healthy urban places. Already, the impacts of this effort are quite visible, ranging from the weatherization of homes, to improvements in neighborhood safety, to the creation of a “Smart Grid” to facilitate renewable energy opportunities. The Bancroft School redevelopment project is one of the most prominent examples of the transformative potential of the Green Impact Zone’s efforts. With the rehabilitation of the historic Bancroft School building, construction of new residential units, commitment to high performance green design, and integration of community spaces and services into the development program, the compelling vision of the Bancroft project is already attracting new interest in investment and development in the Manheim Park neighborhood and in the Green Impact Zone more broadly. Through the active work of the Green Impact Zone and other partners, there is currently a concentration of developer interest, community development activity, neighborhood participation, and City investment in the Manheim Park Neighborhood. This document, the Manheim Park Development Strategy, provides a set of tools that can help to coordinate these diverse efforts in a way that maximizes their impact, supports the vision of the neighborhood, fulfills the promise of the Green Impact Zone principles, and builds the capacity of residents and community organizations alike. Toward that end, this document has three components:

DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS Development concepts illustrate how development and infrastructure investments can occur in a coordinated fashion that meets the needs of the neighborhood and positions individual projects to benefit through integration with a long-term strategy. Conceptual development plans connect proposed land uses, key catalyst projects, infrastructure investments, potential amenities, and other opportunities at a range of scales. These plans also show potential development phasing, and priority areas for development. PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES The purpose of performance guidelines is to align public and private investment with the goals of the neighborhood and Green Impact Zone, particularly for expectations and opportunities that are not place specific and cannot be illustrated through the development concepts. Neighborhood Association Housing Commitee The performance guidelines connect broad principles to specific strategies, techniques, and development solutions that can be applied to individual projects. Green Impact Zone

PROCESS FRAMEWORK The process framework outlines how everyone involved in the development of the Manheim Park neighborhood can relate to each other. It clarifies how, when, and with whom conversation and collaboration might occur to both encourage and facilitate development, and also to achieve the desired performance standards in the Green Impact Zone and the neighborhood.


INTRODUCTION | 3

HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT This document is intended to be useful to different audiences at various points of the decision-making process for investment and development in the Manheim Park neighborhood: NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS The Manheim Park Development Strategy is a tool to assist residents in achieving the neighborhood transformation they desire. The strategy focuses on the Manheim Park neighborhood initially, but it has potential application and replication throughout the Green Impact Zone. The development concepts illustrate how the neighborhood vision can be translated to a physical development scheme. In conversations with potential developers and service providers, performance guidelines communicate how the vision and guiding principles for the neighborhood can be applied in specific development concepts. The process framework helps to clarify the neighborhood’s role in reviewing and facilitating proposed development within the neighborhood.

CITY Within the Green Impact Zone, the City of Kansas City has an opportunity to pilot a new model of integration and coordination between departments to provide higher quality services and strategically leverage infrastructure investments to maximize their potential impact on the area. With development concepts that identify strategic nodes and catalysts for development, and performance guidelines that illustrate opportunities for integrated approaches to services, energy, stormwater, and transportation, the Manheim Park Development Strategy will begin to establish a path for more integrated and strategic service delivery. The process framework also outlines how the City works with the neighborhood, developers, and the green impact zone to facilitate and regulate the development process.

GREEN IMPACT ZONE The Green Impact Zone has established a vision and guiding principles to shape the transformation of the neighborhoods within the Green Impact Zone boundaries. The Manheim Park Development Strategy establishes a series of tools to ensure that the development within the Zone is coordinated with the broader goals of the Green Impact Zone, and that the Zone can effectively engage with developers, community organizations, and neighborhoods to ensure that efforts are coordinated to achieve maximum impact.

PRIVATE AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPERS With ongoing efforts by the Green Impact Zone and the redevelopment of Bancroft School, there is already an emerging interest from private developers and community development organizations to participate in the transformation of the Manheim Park Neighborhood and capitalize on the focused investment and energy that already exists. The Manheim Park Development Strategy is a tool to provide guidance to interested developers about the broader development vision for the neighborhood and to help focus and coordinate development activity in a strategic way that leverages existing and proposed investments.


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EXISTING PLANS AND ONGOING INITIATIVES Over the last four years Manheim Park Neighborhood residents have engaged in planning for a vibrant future. In 2008, Brush Creek Community Partners, a local community development organization actively involved in the Green Impact Zone, sponsored a community dialogue culminating with a Vision document that clarified neighborhood values and goals and identified some key strategies to achieve the goals. The vision for the Manheim Park neighborhood is as follows: An interconnected community empowered by the people supporting the health and well-being of all residents valuing attractive homes and vibrant businesses united around a common goal for a restorative future.

The Green Impact Zone’s support, engagement around the Bancroft school redevelopment project, and charrettes facilitated by APD Urban Planning and Management to explore housing strategies in Manheim Park and other neighborhoods have built upon the foundation established in this Visioning process to advance the goals of the neighborhood. The Bancroft development and design team engaged the Manheim Park neighborhood five times over a period of four months in 2011 to receive informed feedback on the community needs that can be addressed by the Bancroft School project and partnerships. Meanwhile, APD also engaged Manheim Park and other neighborhoods in the Zone to inform the overall housing plan, branding, and land use strategies. This extensive dialogue has helped to establish a community vision for the future of the neighborhood and a large body of public input that guides the work described in this document.

This word cloud represents the topics discussed during the Manheim Park Healthy Neighborhood Initiative community meetings. The larger the word, the more often it was mentioned. Credit: wordle.net


INTRODUCTION | 5

MANHEIM PARK HEALTHY NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVE: In addition to the vision, the Manheim Park Healthy Neighborhood Initiative established the following goals: Goals • Safety: Build a community where neighbors know each other, where children can be seen playing outside and where public spaces are safe 24 hours a day. • Business: Increase the diversity and quantity of local businesses and entrepreneurship opportunities and ensure that necessary amenities can be purchased within the neighborhood. • Community: Reinvent connections between neighborhoods to establish an equitable place where neighbors greet each other on the street with a smile and where strong neighborhood associations collaborate to establish a social support network. • Education: Nurture a community where children can be seen walking to and from neighborhood schools, safely crossing back and forth across Troost Avenue, a place where adult literacy and joblessness are improved through education and training opportunities, and where local universities become an integral part of the community because students and faculty live, work, learn, and volunteer in adjacent neighborhoods. • Transportation: Increase pedestrian activity throughout the neighborhood. • Maintenance: Establish and implement a high level of property maintenance that creates an attractive and welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. • Housing: Create a neighborhood of well-maintained houses filled with attentive and invested occupants. • Parks: Create a fun and safe gathering space for the neighborhood. Provide amenities for park visitors and clean up existing property.

Cover of the Manheim Park Health Neighborhood Initiative Vision Document.

The community crafted a vision for Manheim Park through a series of public meetings.


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GREEN IMPACT ZONE The Green Impact Zone is an office of the Mid America Regional Council (MARC) started in 2009 and funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The programs that this office oversees were conceived by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II to foster sustainability in a designated area of 150 blocks in the core of Kansas City, Missouri. This national model of resilience is responsible for weatherizing homes, connecting transportation routes, stimulating entrepreneurship, cleaning up blighted properties, working with police and neighborhood associations to make safer places, and streamlining processes for residents to report problems and achieve solutions. The Zone has also been the vehicle for Kansas City Power and Light to implement a Smart Grid pilot project for increased efficiency and seamless integration of local renewable energy sources. The Green Impact Zone works with a coordinating council, made up of neighborhood leaders and other partners, to implement the strategies that will transform the community. These partners include neighborhood, housing, workforce development, energy, health, safety, transportation, and other organizations in addition to a variety of local government entities and City departments.

Celebrating the ribbon cutting of the new Troost Avenue Bridge.

GREEN IMPACT ZONE VISION AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES: The Green Impact Zone has established the following vision: To develop a sustainable community; one that is environmentally, economically and socially stronger tomorrow than it is today...using a comprehensive green strategy...coordinated programs with innovative delivery mechanisms...and intense resident engagement...to more rapidly push community change, build community capacity, and make the Green Impact Zone a place where people want to live, work and play.

The work to realize the vision of the Green Impact Zone will be guided by these principles: • The work will be inclusive, consisting of resident participation and representation, community accountability and transparency. • The work will be effective, achieving the outcomes listed above, being responsive to community desires, having noticeable impact on resident lives and the community, and building organizational and community capacity. • The work will be efficient, leveraging resources, strategically using resources, fiscally accounting for resources, and using data to make decisions. • The work will complement and enhance existing neighborhood goals and activities. • The work will cross-pollinate ideas, programs and people to enhance the ability of people inside and out of the Green Impact Zone to learn from the programs and policies. • The work will be evidence-based, using information and data to evaluate the effectiveness of activities and adjust program design. • The work will be targeted so that each block sees significant improvement to lives, homes and community assets.


INTRODUCTION | 7

GREEN IMPACT ZONE HOUSING PLAN (APD) In 2011, the Green Impact Zone hired APD Urban Planning and Management LLC as a consultant to develop a housing plan for the Zone, including the Manheim Park neighborhood. APD has experience in developing residential, mixed-use, and mixed-income projects in urban neighborhoods. The housing initiative led by APD included public meetings in Manheim Park and other neighborhoods to discuss housing challenges, opportunities, and community preferences. This initiative also produced detailed analysis of property ownership, housing conditions, development opportunities, ongoing community development efforts, and available community services. All of this information provides the foundation for the work in this document and will inform the proposed development concepts.

One of the public meetings to explore how the Bancroft school can meet community needs.

BANCROFT SCHOOL REDEVELOPMENT The Bancroft School is a historic elementary school built in 1909 in the heart of the Manheim Park neighborhood that residents have identified as critical to the transformation of the neighborhood. The Bancroft School was a functioning elementary school until 2000 and was sold to a private investor in 2009. A private developer now has the building under contract and is working with a team including the Make It Right Foundation (a housing non-profit started in New Orleans to rebuild homes following Hurricane Katrina) and other partners. The redevelopment plan includes converting the existing school building into 29 units of housing with an additional 21 new construction units built on the site for a total of 50 units. The developer successfully pursued Federal and State Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) for the financing of the project. As a result, the apartments will be marketed as affordable housing for families and individuals. The Bancroft School redevelopment team has committed to green technology and design strategies, including the pursuit of LEED Platinum designation, on-site energy generation, and capture and cleaning of rainwater for reuse. As the Bancroft project approaches construction, the development team is also coordinating with the Green Impact Zone and community organizations to create a workforce development plan that provides training and skill development for area residents, employment opportunities on the project itself, and capacity building for community organizations.


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CHAPTER 2

Development Concepts


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DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS The following development concepts illustrate how physical development in the Manheim Park neighborhood can achieve the neighborhood vision and support Green Impact Zone principles. These development concepts include maps and diagrams at several scales ranging from community-wide connections and influences throughout the entire Green Impact Zone and beyond, to land use and infrastructure strategies in the Manheim Park neighborhood, to detailed development opportunities around the Bancroft school redevelopment area specifically. The development concepts are intended to illustrate a clear vision for future investment and development within the neighborhood, and to function as a tool to leverage and align opportunities that exist within the neighborhood and entire Green Impact Zone.

DOWNTOWN KCK

DOWNTOWN LOOP CROSSROADS

18TH & VINE

UNION STATION

MIDTOWN HYDE PARK WESTPORT NELSON PLAZA ATKINS

N

The Green Impact Zone in context of Kansas City, Missouri.

UMKC

GREEN IMPACT ZONE

STADIUMS


DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | 11

GREEN IMPACT ZONE CONCEPT The Green Impact Zone Concept integrates major potential catalyst projects, critical connections, and priority investment areas onto a single map that clearly demonstrates the important relationships and connections between Manheim Park and the Green Impact Zone, as well as the overall Green Impact Zone’s context within Kansas City.

Scope of the Green Impact Zone Concept.

MANHEIM PARK NEIGHBORHOOD CONCEPT The Manheim Park Neighborhood Concept illustrates the general land use strategies, important corridor improvements, creation of parks and open space, and key development opportunities within the Manheim Park neighborhood in order to guide future decisions related to new development and infrastructure. The Neighborhood Concept provides guidance on location, mix, and intensity of uses in a way that helps to prioritize and align important development decisions while remaining flexible and adaptive with regard to individual projects. Scope of the Manheim Park Neighborhood Concept

Scope of the Bancroft Activity Center Concept

BANCROFT ACTIVITY CENTER CONCEPT The Bancroft Activity Center Concept focuses on the Bancroft School redevelopment, the 43rd Street / Troost Avenue Intersection, and the immediately adjacent blocks. This focused development concept applies the design principles of the Green Impact Zone and Neighborhood Concepts while incorporating existing building and site conditions, ownership information, known development opportunities, and existing City projects to develop tailored strategies for development and infrastructure. The Bancroft Activity Center concept is an important tool for on-the-ground implementation of the Neighborhood Concept Plan in one particular location, but it also provides a blue-print for future priority development areas throughout the Green Impact Zone.


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GREEN IMPACT ZONE CONCEPT The zone wide area plan highlights the major anchors and connections in the Green Impact Zone and throughout the surrounding areas. MAJOR ANCHORS Major anchors are large institutions with a strong presence in their neighborhoods. These institutions have a long term interest and stabilizing influence on the surrounding community and are important partners in the health and vitality of the community.

MIXED USE CORRIDORS Mixed Use corridors support a variety of shops, offices, and residences along key transit routes with pedestrian and bicycle friendly streets. They connect activity centers and contribute to neighborhood vitality while promoting mobility through the city.

CATALYSTS Catalysts are potential projects that could jumpstart revitalization in the surrounding area. Investment in these areas could accelerate improvements in the Green Impact Zone. These are priority sites because the benefits extend beyond the borders and scope of the individual project.

NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTORS Neighborhood Connectors are streets that span several neighborhoods and can facilitate movement through this part of the city for pedestrians, cyclists, transit, and cars. Neighborhood connectors provide opportunities for an active lifestyle and add beauty to the neighborhoods with integrated landscaping and green stormwater management.

ACTIVITY CENTERS Activity centers are areas with a mix of uses, higher intensity development, and supportive infrastructure such as transit and pedestrian and bicycle facilities. These areas are vibrant centers of neighborhood life with services, entertainment, and community events.

TRAILS AND OPEN SPACE Trails and Open Space in the Green Impact Zone provide recreational opportunities, create a network for mobility, and serve environmental functions such as stormwater management and provision of habitat.


DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | 13

HYDE PARK

C

39th St

SEVEN OAKS PARK

B

OAK PARK THEATER

D

E

G

KANSAS CITY ART INSTITUTE

KING WEEK SCHOOL

F

43rd St

IVANHOE PARK

H

NELSON ATKINS MUESEUM

Brush Creek Blvd

SOUTHMORELAND PARK

OAK PARK SOUTHEAST

CLEVELAND PARK

VINEYARD PARK

OAK PARK

I

PLAZA

VINEYARD NORTHWEST

Cleveland Ave

GILLHAM PARK

OAK PARK SOUTHWEST

Prospect Ave

WESTPORT

KEMPER MUSEUM

IVANHOE SOUTHEAST

MANHEIM PARK The Paseo

SOUTH HYDE PARK

Troost Ave

A

Emmanuel Cleaver II Blvd FRANK A. THEIS PARK

THOMAS J. KIELY PARK

KAUFFMAN LEGACY PARK

Swope Pkwy PASEO ACADEMY

MIDWEST RESEARCH MISSOURI INSTITUTE REPERTORY THEATER

WESTERN 49-63

EASTERN 49-63

ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY

0 490 Impact 980 1,960 Concept 2,940 Green Zone

BLUE HILLS

3,920 Feet

Major Activity Center

¯

TOWN FORK GREENWAY PARK SATCHEL PAIGE MEMORIAL STADIUM

L

Catalysts A

Anchor Institution

Parks and Open Space Minor Activity Center

B C E F G

Neighborhood Connector

Green Impact Zone Boundary

H I J

Existing Trail Potential Trail

MOUNT CLEVELAND

BLUE HILLS PARK

D

Mixed Use Corridor

BRUCE R. WATKINS CULTURAL CENTER BRUSH CREEK COMMUNITY CENTER

K

J

51st St

UMKC

N

BRUSH CREEK PARKWAY

Neighborhood Boundary

K L

NSP3 Neighborhood Housing Services NSP3 Swope Community Partners Horace Mann School/Model Block Project Bancroft School Redevelopment Bancroft Neighborhood Development Federal Home Loan Bank – Major Rehab Town Fork Creek SE Ivanhoe Neighborhood Development Phase I Sections I and III SE Ivanhoe Neighborhood Development Phase I Bright Light Wabash Village Homes Federal Home Loan Bank – Homeowner Rehab Town Fork Creek Blue Hills Contractor Incubator Project


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MANHEIM PARK NEIGHBORHOOD CONCEPT CATALYSTS - BANCROFT SCHOOL There are several catalyst opportunities in the Manheim Park neighborhood, and the Bancroft School renovation project is the first priority. The Bancroft School will be renovated to include apartments, new construction, and community amenities. This project transforms an eyesore in the neighborhood to an amenity that will attract people and create momentum to improve the surrounding community. ACTIVITY CENTERS - TROOST AVE AT 39TH ST, 43RD ST, AND CLEAVER II BLVD Manheim Park can support three activity centers at the intersections of Troost Avenue and 39th Street, 43rd Street, and Cleaver II Boulevard. These areas will have higher density, a greater mix of uses, and higher intensity development than the rest of the neighborhood. Development and infrastructure investments should be prioritized at activity centers and catalysts sites, and infill development in the neighborhood will radiate from these activity centers. MIXED USE CORRIDORS - TROOST AVE Troost Avenue can become a vibrant mixed use corridor that connects activity centers. Additionally, the topography of the area makes Troost an ideal street for green stormwater management. This street can support a vibrant mix of shops, offices, apartments, and houses and include infrastructure that both provides a pleasant pedestrian and bicycle environment while capturing stormwater to create landscaped amenities. NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTORS - 43RD ST, PASEO, BRUSH CREEK BLVD Manheim Park has several streets that connect through the neighborhood and to the surrounding area. 43rd Street in particular connects Manheim Park to several neighborhoods, parks, and schools to the east and west. Neighborhood connectors should be enhanced with landscaping and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure to support active lifestyles.

TRAILS AND OPEN SPACE - BRUSH CREEK, GILLHAM PARK The Neighborhood Concept highlights an opportunity to create a central green space within Manheim Park in conjunction with the Bancroft catalyst project. The Park would include the area around the Bancroft School and land in the block to the north of the school. Trails could connect the neighborhood to the surrounding area and provide additional recreational opportunities.


DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | 15

39TH ST

41ST ST VIRGINIA AVE

TROOST AVE

FOREST AVE

40TH ST

42ND ST

43RD ST

45TH ST

PASEO BLVD

TRACY AVE

44TH ST

BRUSH CREEK BLVD MANHEIM PARK NEIGHBORHOOD CONCEPT

47TH ST / EMANUEL CLEAVER II BLVD

N

MIXED USE CORRIDOR

NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTOR

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

COMMUNITY OPEN SPACE

MIXED USE

MORE DENSE RESIDENTIAL

LESS DENSE RESIDENTIAL

MAX BUS STOPS

TRAILS


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BANCROFT ACTIVITY CENTER CONCEPT BANCROFT SCHOOL The Bancroft School renovation project will transform this vacant building into apartments and community space in the middle of Manheim Park. This project includes construction of new housing units along Forest Avenue and 43rd Street. This project is a catalyst for the neighborhood that will transform a blighted building into an asset that builds momentum for revitalization and infill efforts. Additionally, the site’s proximity to Troost Avenue supports development on this mixed use corridor.

43RD STREET 43rd Street is an important east west connector for the neighborhoods in the Green Impact Zone. Providing bike facilities, sidewalk improvements, and green infrastructure along this street can enhance its function as a connector. Encouraging infill development to front on 43rd Street can also activate this connector and provide “eyes on the street.”

TROOST & 43RD STREET The Bancroft School project supports a neighborhood activity center at Troost Avenue and 43rd Street that includes a walkable street grid, several historic buildings, and a transit hub with several MAX and KCATA lines. Development should build on these strengths to transform this area into an amenity rich, walkable center. The concept calls for mixed use renovation and infill development on Troost, and multifamily development on the west side of Forest Avenue and along 43rd Street. Focusing development in this area will create a critical mass of redevelopment that can anchor other infill development throughout the neighborhood.

HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES The Bancroft Activity Center provides opportunities for creative, integrated housing with a mix of densities and styles. There is room for multifamily housing or single family attached housing along major corridors such as Troost and 43rd. This higher density housing could front onto the park, providing residents with green space and the neighborhood with a committed constituency for the park. Single family housing could include accessory structures on site, such as granny flats above alley facing garages. The topography of the neighborhood provides additional opportunities, such as basement garages built into the hills.

TROOST AVENUE Troost Avenue is an important corridor for Manheim Park and for Kansas City. Streetscape investments are transforming this corridor to the north of Manheim Park. Bringing investment in streetscape elements, bike lanes, green infrastructure and sidewalks to this part of Troost will boost redevelopment efforts in Manheim Park. Development along Troost can support this vision by fronting onto Troost, limiting curb cuts, locating parking in the rear, and exploring shared parking and alley access opportunities. Creative parking strategies on Troost can also reduce the need for off-street parking.

KEY OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT AND AMENITIES The Bancroft Activity Center provides many unique opportunities for development and amenities. For example some vacant lots can be repurposed to provide mid-block connections between mixed use development and parks. This idea could expand to a continuous green space network of connections throughout the neighborhood. Vacant lots could be consolidated along the Troost corridor to support infill development more in line with current market demands.


DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | 17

5

9

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42

4 6

5

4

8

TRA

CY

7 9

AVE

4

1 T

DS

43R

FO

RE

2

2

5

ST

6

AV E

ST

OO

TR

5 E AV

3

4

TH

ST

N

44

BANCROFT ACTIVITY CENTER CONCEPT 1. Pedestrian oriented, mixed use streetscape 2. Transit stop 3. Building frontage with parking behind 4. Continuous green space connections 5. Building frontage oriented to the park

6. Community open space 7. Bancroft School Redevelopment 8. Building frontage along 43rd 9. Buffer and/or screening of surface parking


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INCREMENTAL DEVELOPMENT The maps below illustrate one scenario for how incremental development can occur over time in a manner the supports the long term development strategy for the Manheim Park neighborhood. The “Long Term” map corresponds to the aerial rending on page 17. The colors on the maps describe different types of mixed use and residential development, and correspond to the “Flexible Housing Options” diagram on page 21.

EXISTING

This map of existing conditions highlights land and buildings with a high potential for redevelopment, including vacant buildings, vacant lots, properties owned by community development organizations, and other properties available for redevelopment.

SHORT TERM

The Bancroft School redevelopment and associated amenities provide an important catalyst for new investment. In the short term, adaptive reuse of existing buildings and new development in the immediate proximity of Bancroft and Troost may be most likely, especially where community development organizations have already positioned parcels to redevelop.

43RD ST

43RD ST

44TH ST

44TH ST

N

N

community open space

community open space

vacant lots or buildings

mixed use redevelopment in existing buildings

parcels owned by community housing organizations,

higher density residential development

land trusts, banks, or trustees

lower density residential development vacant lots or buildings

TRACY AVE

FOREST AVE

TROOST AVE

TRACY AVE

42ND ST

FOREST AVE

TROOST AVE

42ND ST


DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | 19

MID TERM

New amenities, new services, and committed investment builds momentum for additional development in Bancroft Activity Center. As quality of life improves and housing options expand, new residential and mixed use development begins to transform the inactive to active.

LONG TERM

In the long term the Bancroft Activity Center becomes an amenity rich place to live, work and play. A vital mixed use corridor on Troost Ave serves a diverse and healthy neighborhood center complemented by a network of community open space.

43RD ST

43RD ST

44TH ST N

44TH ST N

community open space

community open space

mixed use redevelopment in existing buildings

mixed use redevelopment in existing buildings

mixed use development

mixed use development

higher density residential development

higher density residential development

lower density residential development

lower density residential development

vacant lots or buildings

TRACY AVE

FOREST AVE

TROOST AVE

TRACY AVE

42ND ST

FOREST AVE

TROOST AVE

42ND ST


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FLEXIBLE HOUSING MIX The Bancroft Activity Center Concept represents one scenario for how development, infrastructure, and urban design strategies can be successfully integrated in a way that supports the neighborhood’s vision and the principles of the Green Impact Zone. While the key principles of this concept are important to maintain, there is flexibility in terms of specific sites and development opportunities. The diagram to the shows how a variety of housing options can be successfully integrated at various densities, while still supporting a big-picture strategy to focus development and activity in key areas. In addition to strategies to allow flexibility in development while maintaining the integrity of a coordinated development concept, this section also highlights several specific design considerations for new housing development in the Manheim Park neighborhood.

THOUGHTFULLY MIXING HOUSING STYLES AND DENSITIES Manheim Park has a mix of housing styles and densities. New development should continue this pattern of diverse housing styles and should avoid homogeneity. Equally important, new developments should be appropriately scaled to their surroundings, and development should transition from highest density on mixed use corridor streets to lowest density on local, residential streets.

STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER Housing in Manheim Park should complement the character of the existing neighborhood. Houses, townhomes, and multifamily buildings should front onto the street. Housing design should deemphasize garages. The form, massing, and materials used in new housing should be mindful of the historic character. In general, new housing should be high quality and present an attractive face to the public realm.

ACCESSORY BUILDINGS Granny flats, or apartments above garages, can increase the density in the neighborhood while maintaining a single family character. Density benefits the neighborhood by providing more activity on the street and increased demand for shops and services in the activity centers.

CREATIVE ACCESS AND PARKING Shared driveways and alleys are potential options to accommodate parking within the neighborhood.

TAKING ADVANTAGE OF UNIQUE TOPOGRAPHY The steep hills in Manheim Park provide opportunities for unique building types. For example, garages built into the hill, beneath houses could provide off-street parking while preserving the connection between housing, the public realm, and neighborhood character.

HIGH QUALITY, HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDINGS INNOVATIVE / CREATIVE Buildings in Manheim Park should be designed as high quality, efficient structures. Innovative and creative development that strengthens the neighborhood is encouraged.


SHARED DRIVE WAY

GARAGE BENEATH HOUSE

HOUSE WITH GRANNY FLAT

HOUSE WITH GRANNY FLAT

DETACHED ROW HOUSES

ATTACHED ROW HOUSES

DETACHED ROW HOUSES

ATTACHED ROW HOUSES

RETAIL + APARTMENTS

MIXED USE

HIGHER DENSITY RESIDENTIAL

LOWER DENSITY RESIDENTIAL

DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS | 21

Flexible Housing Options at Various Densities


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KEY DESIGN STRATEGIES The Bancroft Activity Center Concept illustrates how a number of distinct design strategies can be integrated together in a coordinated development concept. The diagrams in this section more fully illustrate and clarify how some of these design strategies can be applied more generally throughout the Manheim Park Neighborhood and Green Impact Zone. Some of these strategies address specific urban design choices, while others focus on coordination and focus of investment in a deliberate way to achieve a transformative impact.

DENSITY AT INTERSECTION NODES Increased activity and density at key intersections throughout the Manheim Park Neighborhood and the broader Green Impact Zone provide an opportunity to integrate convenient, neighborhood scale retail and services, and to take advantage of improved access along important neighborhood connectors.

LINK ACTIVITY CENTERS AND AMENITIES Open space, amenities, and activity centers can be linked through continuous streetscape improvements that provide safe, attractive, walkable, and bikeable connections throughout the neighborhood.

CONTINUOUS OPEN SPACE CONNECTIONS Throughout the Manheim Park Neighborhood and Green Impact Zone there are opportunities to consolidate vacant lots in a coordinated way to make continuous open space connections and position the neighborhood for new development opportunities.


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COORDINATE INFRASTRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT A focused, layered approach to public and private development in the neighborhood helps to leverage scarce resources and maximize the impact of investments. The diagrams below show how a coordinated approach takes advantage of existing activity and development interest and helps to support neighborhood revitalization more comprehensively. Catalyst projects supported by strategically located public infrastructure improvements, amenities, and other services help to lay the foundation for renewed private investment and development in the neighborhood.

1. A catalyst project can anchor redevelopment of an area.

3. Parks, services, and other amenities can improve quality of life and attract new residents.

2. Coordinated investments in public infrastructure support private development.

4. With a concentration of layered improvements and amenities, new private infill is primed to succeed.

COMPLETE STREETS Major mixed use streets like Troost Avenue and important neighborhood connectors like 43rd Street can function as “complete streets� that simultaneously provide residents mobility options, create safe and attractive public spaces, serve critical infrastructure functions in a sustainable way, and provide amenities that enhance quality of life.

5

4

3

2

1

1. DRIVE & TRANSIT LANES Complete streets make room for all modes of transportation including driving, walking, and biking. 2. BIKE LANES

2

3

4

5

4. AMENITY ZONE A complete street is about more than transportation. The amenity zone enhances the appearance and experience of the street for a variety of users. Bike racks, benches, trash cans,

Dedicated bike lanes invite even the casual cyclist to consider

lights, art, infiltration basins (rainwater management), and

biking as a safe and convenient mode of transportation.

shade trees are all part of the amenity zone.

3. PARKING AND/OR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

5. LAND USE

Parking for both automobiles and bicycles provides easy

The right mix of uses is key for creating active streets.

access and invites people to stay awhile. Integrated curb

Development should enhance complete streets through proper

bump outs calm traffic, provide safe and comfortable

building orientation that defines the public realm and parking

pedestrian crossings, and space for smart rainwater

strategies that do not isolate or discourage pedestrians.

management solutions


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CHAPTER 3

Performance Guidelines


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PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES The purpose of the performance guidelines is to translate the larger goals and vision of the Green Impact Zone and the Manheim Neighborhood into specific expectations for public and private projects. Performance guidelines are non-place-specific, and apply to all development in the area. Each performance guideline category includes a description of how and why the topic is important, and a checklist of specific items that a particular project should address. The performance guidelines are intended to set expectations for infrastructure investment and development in Manheim Park and also to serve as a conversation tool to align development interests, city responsibilities, and neighborhood needs and desires. Performance guidelines are organized into the following topics: BUILDING SUSTAINABLY Building sustainably lowers energy and water bills while increasing the comfort and quality of the built environment. Sustainable strategies are a core concept of the Green Impact Zone. DIVERSE HOUSING OPTIONS Planning for a range of housing options will strengthen the neighborhood by attracting a diverse mix of new residents while meeting the needs of existing residents. CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NEIGHBORHOOD FABRIC Development in Manheim Park should recognize the existing neighborhood identity. Community engagement should be an integral part of every infrastructure and development project. OPEN SPACE AND PUBLIC SPACE Well maintained and active public spaces can be an attractor and catalyst for the neighborhood.

PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE Physical infrastructure includes road, sidewalk, stormwater management, streetlights, and more. Investments in infrastructure can create a safer, more livable neighborhood and support private development. ACCESS TO JOBS AND SERVICES Planning for a mix of uses and enhanced mobility options will facilitate better access to jobs and services. SAFE AND HEALTHY LIVING Thoughtful improvement of the built environment can improve safety, encourage active living, and promote access to healthy food options. ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN Accessible development and infrastructure investments strengthen quality of life and increase equity by ensuring that all ages and abilities can live comfortably, with basic mobility and access to employment and services. INTEGRATED SERVICES AND AMENITIES Creative coordination of parks, schools , and other facilities serves the neighborhood more efficiently while supporting a more holistic approach to resident needs. CAPACITY BUILDING, SKILL TRAINING, AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Development in Manheim Park will lead to increased employment opportunities in construction and the development of permanent businesses and services. Workforce development and skill training will ensure that Manheim residents are ready to take advantage of these opportunities. COORDINATION OF DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND SERVICES Private development and public investments should coordinate to maximize the impact of both. Departments and organizations should pursue an integrated approach to services and infrastructure.


BUILDING SUSTAINABLY

City Facilities & Infrastructure

Individual Home Builders

Residential Developers

Mixed Use Developers

City Facilities & Infrastructure

Individual Home Builders

Residential Developers

Mixed Use Developers

PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 27

SAFE AND HEALTHY LIVING

Energy Efficient Buildings

Diverse Fitness and Recreation Opportunities

Buildings that Conserve Water

Local Access to Healthy Foods

On-Site Water Management

Understanding Neighborhood Health Challenges

Innovative Design and Construction

Physical Improvements to Enhance Safety

DIVERSE HOUSING OPTIONS

Safe and Attractive Streets

Housing Choices

Property Maintenance

Housing Balance

Walkable Neighborhoods

Quality, Efficient, Affordable Housing

Healthy Buildings

New Housing Models

ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN

Neighborhood Character

ADA Compliance

Creative Financing, Maintenance, and Management

Accessible Design

CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NEIGHBORHOOD FABRIC Community Engagement Responding to Neighborhood Needs Preservation and Restoration Contextual Development OPEN AND PUBLIC SPACE Open Space as a Catalyst Coordination with Other Amenities and Public Facilities Interconnected Open Space System

Universal Design Priority Parking INTEGRATED SERVICES AND AMENITIES Complete Communities Supportive Environment Shared Spaces and Coordinated Programming CAPACITY BUILDING, SKILL TRAINING, AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Workforce Development

Multi-Functional Open Space

Youth Education and Empowerment

Vacant Lot Mitigation

Partnerships

Sensitive Site Protection

Green Jobs

PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE Mobility and Connectivity Streetscape Enhancements

Local Businesses COORDINATION OF DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND SERVICES

Facility Improvements

Neighborhood Business Support

Green Infrastructure

Layer Development and Infrastructure Investments

Repair and Maintenance

Public Investment as Development Incentive

Targeted Improvements

Collaborative Partnerships

ACCESS TO JOBS AND SERVICES Convenient, Accessible Retail and Services Activity Centers Business Variety Mixed Use, Transit-Oriented Development Enhanced Mobility and Connectivity

Alignment of Departments and Services


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BUILDING SUSTAINABLY • • • •

Energy Efficient Buildings Buildings That Conserve Water On-Site Water Management Innovative Design and Construction

Sustainable building strategies can increase the health, efficiency, durability, and comfort of homes and businesses while reducing construction and maintenance costs. Within the Manheim Park neighborhood and Green Impact Zone more broadly, new and innovative techniques for building design and construction can put higher quality living and working environments within the reach of more people, and further support local education and workforce development efforts. Sustainable building practices include designing and locating projects to adapt, integrate, and restore the natural environment, as well as energy-efficiency and renewable energy strategies, water conservation, and use of recycled materials.

BUILDING SUSTAINABLY GUIDELINES

□□ ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS:

Integrating energy-efficiency strategies for new construction and rehabilitation helps to reduce energy-use lower utility bills, and improve air quality. Buildings should be oriented on the site to take advantage of the sun’s energy, and well insulated and ventilated. Reflective materials and vegetation can reduce heat gain, while use of efficient appliances can lower energy consumption.

□□ BUILDINGS THAT CONSERVE WATER:

Reduce daily water use through high-efficiency plumbing fixtures. Identify opportunities for to harvest and re-use rainwater. These strategies reduce the burden on the city’s water system, while saving residents money on water bills.

□□ ON-SITE WATER MANAGEMENT:

Use Manheim Park and the Green Impact Zone as a model for coordinated stormwater management strategies by incorporating rain gardens and other practices that store and filter runoff on-site.

□□ INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION:

Use innovative techniques for design and construction that can improve the health, durability, efficiency, and sustainability of a building. Demonstrate new ways of building that integrate and restore the natural environment while providing higher quality living environments that are more affordable and accessible to users.


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 29

Sustainable Home Building Strategies

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

6.

Orientation: Orient the building on the site to take advantage of the sun’s energy. Rainwater: Harvest rainwater for irrigation, car washing, toilet flushing, and other uses. Framing: Incorporate resource-efficient framing techniques to minimize wasted materials. Insulation: Insulate the building and provide appropriate ventilation. Windows: Install windows with a low U-value. The U-Value rating of windows makes a difference on the overall insulation quality of the home. Doors: High pressure rated doors with steel reinforcement help fight wind damage

7.

Roof: Use reflective roof materials or a vegetated roof. 8. HVAC: Use energy efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. 9. Plumbing: Incorporate high-efficiency plumbing fixtures (i.e., low-flow, dual flush) to reduce daily water use. 10. Appliances: Use EnergyStar rated lighting and appliances to reduce daily energy loads. 11. Materials: Use materials with low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds); look for salvaged and recycled-content materials where possible) 12. Renewable Energy: Renewable energy reduces utility bills, increases self-sufficiency, and improves the health of the building.


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DIVERSE HOUSING OPTIONS • Housing Choices • Housing Balance • Quality, Efficient, Affordable Housing • New Housing Models • Neighborhood Character • Creative Financing, Maintenance, and Management Successful housing development in the Manheim Park Neighborhood must provide the right amount of housing in the right location, and carefully integrate new housing to strengthen neighborhoods and reinforce a sense of community. New housing should address the needs of existing residents, but also potential new residents who can contribute to the vitality of the neighborhood. Mixed income developments can provide affordable housing options for those in need, while incorporating new market-rate housing that helps to create neighborhoods that are viable and self-sustaining in the long-term.

New single-family housing, infill housing built on vacant lots scattered throughout the neighborhood, attached and multi-family housing, and mixed-use development providing retail and services in addition to housing options, are all part of the diverse housing mix that can serve existing and future residents of the Manheim Park neighborhood. Housing development in Manheim Park should illustrate new approaches to housing residents in a manner that addresses both pre-existing challenges and emerging needs, and demonstrate techniques and practices that can be applied across the Green Impact Zone and even citywide. This includes innovative approaches to home construction, maintenance, and property management that improve the affordability, performance, appearance, and longevity of housing. New housing should also reinforce the tight-knit community fabric of the neighborhood by supporting homeowners that are engaged and invested in the neighborhood.


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DIVERSE HOUSING OPTIONS GUIDELINES

□□ HOUSING CHOICES:

Integrate a mix of residential densities, styles, and price ranges within the neighborhood to serve a range of ages, incomes, lifestyles, and housing preferences.

□□ HOUSING BALANCE:

Create neighborhoods that are viable and selfsustaining in the long term through a balance of housing that enables ownership and advancement opportunities for existing residents, affordable housing options to serve those in need, and a variety of market-rate housing opportunities to attract new residents.

□□ QUALITY, EFFICIENT, AFFORDABLE HOUSING:

Support high quality home design and construction methods that are durable, safe, healthy, and environmentally sustainable while remaining economically viable to develop and affordable to rent, own, and maintain.

□□ NEW HOUSING MODELS:

Explore, and adapt creative new ways to house residents to address both pre-existing challenges and emerging needs, with potential application across the Green Impact Zone, or even citywide.

□□ NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER:

Carefully integrate new housing to strengthen neighborhoods and reinforce the tight-knit community fabric. This includes being responsive to existing neighborhood patterns while finding creative new ways new ways to engage residents, address neighborhood needs, support social interaction, and build capacity.

□□ CREATIVE FINANCING, MAINTENANCE, AND MANAGEMENT:

Identify creative strategies to finance quality housing for developers, owners and renters, and expand homeownership opportunities. Explore innovative approaches to home maintenance and property management to improve the visual appearance and longevity of housing.


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CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NEIGHBORHOOD FABRIC • Community Engagement • Responding to Neighborhood Needs • Preservation and Restoration • Contextual Development

CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NEIGHBORHOOD FABRIC GUIDELINES

□□ COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

Engage the community in a meaningful way and incorporate community input into the design and programming of the project, as well as ongoing operation and management. Infrastructure and development projects should clearly align with the vision and goals of the neighborhood and the Green Impact Zone.

The passion, commitment, and vision of the people of Manheim Park are at the heart of a transformative future for the neighborhood. Community pride, a tight-knit neighborhood, and renewed engagement of residents are important assets in Manheim Park. By capitalizing on and sustaining this strong public engagement, new development can build capacity and community vitality while at the same time positioning development for more success and greater impact.

□□ RESPONDING TO NEIGHBORHOOD

The Manheim Park neighborhood has a lot of history, and its architecture, layout, landscape, and other features are an essential part of what makes the neighborhood a unique and desirable place. New development and infrastructure investment should be sensitive to this important heritage and strive to integrate into the neighborhood in a supportive way that strengthens neighborhood vitality.

□□ PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION:

NEEDS:

Ensure that new investment reflects and responds to the needs and aspirations of the people who live, work, and play in the neighborhood. Infrastructure and development projects should clearly align with the vision and goals of the neighborhood and the Green Impact Zone.

Preserve and adaptively reuse historic and culturally significant buildings and neighborhood landmarks.

□□ CONTEXTUAL DEVELOPMENT:

Tailor construction and neighborhood design to be compatible with local characteristics and to complement the existing neighborhood fabric, including scale, massing, and use of materials. Identify opportunities to strengthen the social and cultural fabric of the community through new development and redevelopment.


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Contextual Development: New development should recognize and respond to the form and character of the existing neighborhood.

Community Engagement: Development and infrastructure investments should be driven by a community process.


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OPEN SPACE & PUBLIC SPACE • Open Space as Catalyst • Coordination with Other Amenities and Public Facilities • Interconnected Open Space System • Multi-Functional Open Space • Vacant Lot Mitigation • Sensitive Site Protection Well maintained open space that is actively programmed is a community asset and can be a catalyst for new residential development and mixed use development on Troost. Manheim Park has the potential to support a community park and a network of trails and greenways that provide new connections throughout the neighborhood. Coordinating parks and open space with private development, public facilities, and neighborhood organizations will ensure that these spaces remain vibrant, well maintained, and active. These guidelines are designed to ensure Manheim Park has adequate, quality park space while mitigating problems associated with vacant lots and unmaintained open space. PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE GUIDELINES

□□ OPEN SPACE AS A CATALYST:

Parks can be an attraction for the neighborhood; especially if the park has a committed resident and business constituency and is connected to an activity center with a mix of uses. As an attractive space and visible public investment, a park can serve as a focal point and amenity for surrounding residential areas and a tool to revitalize key activity centers and corridors.

□□ COORDINATION WITH OTHER AMENITIES AND PUBLIC FACILITIES:

Coordinate development of amenities, such as shops and restaurants, and public facilities, such as schools, with neighborhood parks. Coordinated parks and facilities provide opportunities for exercise, recreation, training, and outdoor activities that serve the mission of adjacent institutions and facilities.

□□ INTERCONNECTED OPEN SPACE SYSTEM:

Strategically plan parks, open space, trails, and development to create green connections throughout the neighborhood. Look for opportunities to use vacant lots to connect parks to activity centers. Seek creative uses for surface parking including hosting a farmers’ market on the weekend.

□□ MULTI-FUNCTIONAL OPEN SPACE:

Design open space to function as recreation space, stormwater management, natural habitat, and other uses. Consider how these uses complement each other and can function in the same space. Parks can simultaneously provide transportation, recreation, and environmental benefits, while enhancing the stability and vitality of surrounding areas.

□□ VACANT LOT MITIGATION:

Mitigate vacant lots with infill development, selling to abutting owners, using lots as community spaces such as gardens or playgrounds, or utilizing the land for stormwater management.

□□ SENSITIVE SITE PROTECTION:

Locate development away from wetlands or streams, steep slopes, land with prime soils, and critical wildlife habitat areas.


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 35

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Vacant Lot Mitigation Strategies: I variety of strategies an mitigate vacant lots (1). The land can be sold to abutting land owners (2), transformed into a community park (3), used for infill development (4), stormwater management (5), or a community garden (6).

Farmers’ Market: Parking lots can double as public spaces by hosting farmers’ markets or community events.

Community Gardens: Trails and walkways ensure residents have access to parks and public space. Connecting commercial corridors to parks with walkable connections increases their use.


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PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE • • • • • •

Mobility and Connectivity Streetscape Enhancements Facility Improvements Green Infrastructure Repair and Maintenance Targeted Improvements

Physical infrastructure improvements are the most visible public investments in the community. Making smart decisions about infrastructure can result in a safer, healthier, more sustainable neighborhood and catalyze additional private development. These improvements range from streetscape improvements, to utility and stormwater upgrades, to parks, schools and community facilities. Infrastructure investments demonstrate public commitment to the area, help to improve the image and perception of a place, and can spur private development, particularly when they are strategically coordinated with other development activity. Within the Green Impact Zone, there is a unique opportunity to explore green infrastructure that simultaneously addresses critical service needs, enhances the health of the safety of the community, and functions as an amenity for surrounding areas. PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE GUIDELINES

□□ MOBILITY AND CONNECTIVITY:

Improve connectivity within Manheim Park and to other areas throughout the Green Impact Zone and the City. Build complete Streets that support pedestrians, cyclists, transit, and automobiles. Emphasize 43rd Street as a green street and neighborhood connector. Design key intersections on Troost Avenue as neighborhood gateways oriented around safe, attractive transit access.

□□ STREETSCAPE ENHANCEMENTS:

Provide and improve streetscape features including sidewalks, benches, landscaping, and other pedestrian amenities. Enhance safety through lighting, signage, crosswalks, increased activity, and thoughtful street design.

□□ FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS:

Identify opportunities to provide parks, schools, and other community facilities to serve neighborhood residents. Strategically locate facilities to coordinate and complement adjacent infrastructure and development, and to function as anchors that strengthen surrounding areas.

□□ GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE:

Incorporate green infrastructure as a strategy to address service challenges in a holistic and sustainable way. Green infrastructure can encompass a range of applications, including green stormwater management, renewable energy opportunities, energy-efficient street lighting, habitat restoration, integration with the existing smart grid power system, and more.

□□ REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE:

Repair and maintain existing facilities and infrastructure. Use durable materials in new construction and plan for maintenance during the design and construction phases of the project.

□□ TARGETED IMPROVEMENTS:

Locate development on a site with existing infrastructure wherever possible. Prioritize development and infrastructure in areas where investments can be leveraged for maximum benefit. Coordinate with private development and layer infrastructure investments for greater impact.


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 37

Green Stormwater Management: Incorporating “best management practices” like rain gardens helps to improve water quality, reduce flooding, and lessen the burden on the City’s aging sewers, while functioning as an attractive neighborhood amenity.

Energy-Efficient Streetlights: Full cut-off LED streetlights save energy

Complete Streets: Complete streets accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, automobiles, and transit.


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ACCESS TO JOBS AND SERVICES • Convenient, Accessible Retail and Services • Activity Centers • Business Variety • Mixed-Use, Transit-Oriented Development • Enhanced Mobility and Connectivity Residents have identified the need for enhanced neighborhood-oriented businesses, including greater access to basic retail and services to meet everyday needs. Residents also seek a greater quality and variety of businesses that are convenient, walkable, and accessible within the neighborhood. New development, particularly along Troost Avenue, can help to create well-designed mixed use corridors that serve as attractive gateways to the community and support the city’s retail and service needs. From a wider perspective, revitalized corridors can seamlessly integrate with surrounding neighborhoods, efficiently provide vital connections across the city, and promote increased prosperity by fully serving local and community needs. It is also critical to recognize the importance of coordinating development with transit - a key element of urban infrastructure within the neighborhood providing mobility options and connecting neighborhood residents to vital employment and services.

ACCESS TO JOBS AND SERVICES GUIDELINES

□□ CONVENIENT, ACCESSIBLE RETAIL AND SERVICES:

Integrate convenient local retail and services to serve neighborhood needs and create employment opportunities for residents.

□□ ACTIVITY CENTERS:

Cluster development around activity centers to expand access to transit, jobs, and services, maximize impact of infrastructure investments, and provide a critical mass of activity to support desired retail, services, and amenities.

□□ BUSINESS VARIETY:

Position new development and redevelopment to support a greater quality, quantity, and variety of businesses.

□□ MIXED USE, TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT:

Pursue well-designed, mixed-use, transit-oriented development along the Troost Avenue corridor that serves as an attractive gateway to the neighborhood and supports the area’s retail and service needs.

□□ ENHANCED MOBILITY AND CONNECTIVITY:

Establish key physical connections within and between neighborhoods to improve access to retail, employment, and services, and to increase mobility options including walking and biking.


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 39

Access to jobs and services: Transit, mixed use development, and close proximity between housing and retail/office spaces increases access to jobs and services.


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SAFE AND HEALTHY LIVING • Diverse Fitness and Recreation Opportunities • Local Access to Healthy Foods • Understanding Neighborhood Health Challenges • Physical Improvements to Deter Crime and Enhance Safety • Safe and Attractive Streets • Property Maintenance • Walkable Neighborhoods • Healthy Buildings Health and safety are critical issues in the Manheim Park neighborhood. Safety in Manheim Park has been dramatically improving in the past few years due to increased police presence, better police/community relationships, and responsible residents reporting crime. Many of the performance guidelines in other sections this document, including those encouraging new infill housing, developing vibrant activity centers, creating streetscapes that encourage pedestrian activity, and reusing vacant lots, all improve perceptions of the neighborhood, increase “eyes on the street,” and thereby enhance public safety. While neighborhood safety ultimately relies on establishing active, healthy, vibrant neighborhoods, physical improvements can deter crime and enhance the safety and perception of the neighborhood. Promoting healthy living requires creating neighborhoods that accommodate healthy lifestyles. Healthy neighborhoods are about more than recreation. New development can enhance resident health through quality design and construction, and the use of healthy building materials. Local access to healthy food options not only improves resident health, but also provides

Public safety: Coordination with police and involvement of police in the neighborhood is positively impacting crime levels in Manheim Park

Healthy lifestyles: Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and access to parks and trails will encourage healthy lifestyles in Manheim Park.

opportunities for social interaction, youth development, and entrepreneurship. Healthy neighborhoods are also characterized by diverse fitness and recreation opportunities, safe and attractive streets that encourage walking and biking, and locally accessible retail and services.


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SAFETY AND HEALTH LIVING GUIDELINES

□□ DIVERSE FITNESS AND RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES:

Support healthy neighborhoods through multiuse parks and trails that provide recreation opportunities while also enhancing mobility and connectivity. Increase access to wellness care through multifunctional wellness spaces and convenient access to essential health services.

□□ LOCAL ACCESS TO HEALTHY FOODS: Improve local access to healthy food with development strategies that accommodate community agriculture, neighborhood markets, and healthy food programs. Connect residents to healthy foods by locating development with convenient access to transit and grocery options. Pursue partnerships with other neighborhoods and organizations to leverage broader urban agriculture efforts.

□□ UNDERSTANDING NEIGHBORHOOD

□□ SAFE AND ATTRACTIVE STREETS:

Enhance safety and improve neighborhood perceptions through sidewalk repairs, improved lighting, crosswalks and incorporation of other street improvements and amenities.

□□ PROPERTY MAINTENANCE:

Pursue aggressive property maintenance strategies to improve safety, strengthen property values, and create a more attractive and desirable location for residents and businesses.

□□ WALKABLE NEIGHBORHOODS:

Encourage active, healthy lifestyles with infrastructure that supports walking and biking, and compact development that provides convenient access to employment, services, and amenities.

□□ HEALTHY BUILDINGS:

Enhance resident health through quality design and construction, and the use of healthy building materials, including non-toxic and mold-resistant materials.

HEALTH CHALLENGES:

Use neighborhood-level health information, including existing health challenges, potential partnerships, and other opportunities in order to tailor development and service strategies to the specific needs of the local community.

□□ PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENTS TO DETER CRIME AND ENHANCE SAFETY:

Incorporate strategies for using lighting, landscaping, signage, and paving treatments to encourage legitimate use of space and while deterring crime. Locate, design, and orient new development to promote activity in public spaces and natural surveillance (“eyes on the street”).

Access to Healthy Foods: Plan for land uses and flexible spaces that encourage grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and community gardens.


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ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN • • • •

ADA Compliance Universal Building Design Accessible Urban Design Priority Parking

Universal design refers to methods that ensure all people, regardless of age or ability, are able to navigate the built environment. Examples include audio crosswalk signals, using textured pavement of alert people of intersections, wide passages for wheelchairs, and appropriate counter heights and door handles in buildings. By following the principles of universal design, developers and the City can ensure equal access to and use of their developments and infrastructure. ACCESSIBILITY AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN GUIDELINES

□□ ADA COMPLIANCE:

Follow the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design on all development and infrastructure projects according to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

□□ ACCESSIBLE DESIGN:

Incorporate accessible design strategies on all infrastructure and development projects. Examples of accessible design include dropped curbs, tactile paving, audio pedestrian signals, wide and unobstructed pathways, and smooth ground level entrances without steps.

□□ UNIVERSAL DESIGN:

New construction and redevelopment projects should incorporate universal design principles. Universal design goes beyond acessibility to promote design that can be used regardless of age and ability to integrate people with special challenges into the mainstream. The Universal Design File: Designing for People of All Ages and Abilities is a comprehensive guide to universal design, and can be accessed here: http://designdev.ncsu.edu/openjournal/index.php/redlab/article/ view/102

□□ PRIORITY PARKING:

Designate priority parking spots for handicapped individuals close to entrances of businesses and multi-family residential buildings.

Dropped Curbs + Textured Paving: Dropped curbs allow people in wheel chairs or those unable to step up to maneuver the urban environment. Textured paving alerts people through the sense of touch that they are entering an intersection. Photo Credit: Richard Drdul on Flickr


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 43

The Principles of

Universal Design

Simple and Intuitive Use Equitable Use

The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. 1a. Provide the same means of use for all users: identical whenever possible; equivalent when not. 1b. Avoid segregating or stigmatizing any users. 1c. Provisions for privacy, security, and safety should be equally available to all users. 1d. Make the design appealing to all users.

Flexibility in Use

The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. 2a. Provide choice in methods of use. 2b. Accommodate right- or left-handed access and use. 2c. Facilitate the user's accuracy and precision. 2d. Provide adaptability to the user's pace.

Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or education level. 3a. Eliminate unnecessary complexity. 3b. Be consistent with user expectations and intuition. 3c. Accommodate a wide range of literacy and language skills. 3d. Arrange information consistent with its importance. 3e. Provide effective prompting and feedback during and after task completion.

Perceptible Information

The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities. 4a. Use different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for redundant presentation of essential information. 4b. Provide adequate contrast between essential information and its surroundings. 4c. Maximize "legibility" of essential information. 4d. Differentiate elements in ways that can be described (i.e., make it easy to give instructions or directions). 4e. Provide compatibility with a variety of techniques or devices used by people with sensory limitations.

Size and Space for Approach and Use

Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility.

Tolerance for Error

The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions. 5a. Arrange elements to minimize hazards and errors: most used elements, most accessible; hazardous elements eliminated, isolated, or shielded. 5b. Provide warnings of hazards and errors. 5c. Provide fail safe features. 5d. Discourage unconscious action in tasks that require vigilance.

Low Physical Effort

The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue. 6a. Allow user to maintain a neutral body position. 6b. Use reasonable operating forces. 6c. Minimize repetitive actions. 6d. Minimize sustained physical effort.

7a. Provide a clear line of sight to important elements for any seated or standing user. 7b. Make reach to all components comfortable for any seated or standing user. 7c. Accommodate variations in hand and grip size. 7d. Provide adequate space for the use of assistive devices or personal assistance.

Principles of Universal Design: The principles of universal design ensure that people of all ability have equal access and use of a space. Universal design integrates people with disabilities into the mainstream by making accessible design choices the default. Credit: North Carolina State University Center for Universal Design (http://www.ncsu.edu/project/design-projects/udi/).


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INTEGRATED SERVICES AND AMENITIES • Complete Communities • Supportive Environment • Shared Spaces and Coordinated Programming By thoughtfully integrating a variety of services and amenities, new development can help support complete communities that strengthen community relationships, build resident capacity, and sustain momentum and success over time. Integrated services and amenities help to provide a supportive environment for all ages through opportunities for personal growth, social interaction, education, skill development, and other critical needs. In a time when needs are great and resources scarce, coordinating and potentially collocating services and amenities allows the community to leverage its investments more efficiently and effectively, and opens the door to new collaborative partnerships.

INTEGRATED SERVICES AND AMENITIES GUIDELINES

□□ COMPLETE COMMUNITIES:

Incorporate a range of services and amenities in an intentional and supportive way (community gardens, parks, recreational opportunities, community facilities, health and wellness services, educational services, cultural and social venues).

□□ SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT:

Provide a nurturing, well-connected, supportive environment where youth, elderly, and families can participate in healthy, safe activities.

□□ SHARED SPACES AND COORDINATED PROGRAMMING:

Explore the sharing of physical space and coordination of facilities and services to leverage investments and provide services in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

Community Facilities: Community facilities and programming can support and engage the youth of the neighborhood.


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 45

Integrated Community Services and Amenities: Public space in Manheim park can serve many functions simultaneously. For example parks can serve a recreational function while also host a theater, community garden, and farmers’ markets.


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CAPACITY BUILDING, SKILL TRAINING, AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT • Workforce Development • Youth Education and Empowerment • Partnerships • Green Jobs • Local Businesses Building community capacity requires developing the programs, partnerships, and systems that enable the community to continue making progress toward its vision even after the planning process is complete. Through capacity building efforts to promote education, new skills, and self-sufficiency, development can help to support and maintain neighborhoods over time. Residents have emphasized the need for employment and job training opportunities in general, as well as support for neighborhood businesses that can employ local residents and are conveniently accessible to surrounding residents. Employment for residents can be supported by continuing to improve the connection between employers and potential employees through workforce training efforts. Opportunities include direct employment with the development and construction process as well as the long-term business opportunities that new development creates.

CAPACITY BUILDING, SKILL TRAINING, AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES

□□ WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT:

Increase knowledge, skills, and job opportunities through education and workforce development efforts related to various components of the construction, management, and maintenance of new development.

□□ YOUTH EDUCATION AND EMPOWERMENT:

Create opportunities to educate and empower youth through skill development, internships, and other opportunities, both through the development process and through uses and services integrated into the development program.

□□ PARTNERSHIPS:

Identify opportunities to leverage new and existing partnerships to connect and coordinate potential employees, workforce development resources, and potential employers (developers and new businesses).

□□ GREEN JOBS:

Leverage the ambitious goals of the Green Impact Zone to expand economic opportunity in the neighborhood through renewable energy, energy efficiency, urban agriculture, and other green jobs opportunities.

□□ LOCAL BUSINESSES:

Entrepreneurship: Attracting new development and activity to corridors like Troost Avenue will provide opportunities for employment and local entrepreneurs

Create projects that accommodate and support existing and startup neighborhood businesses that can employ local residents and are conveniently accessible to surrounding residents.


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Employment Opportunities: New development can provide employment opportunities in the form of construction, design, and project management, and property management positions. Over time, new investment and development and the neighborhood will support more permanent and sustainable opportunities. Development that brings new residents to the neighborhood increases the demand for goods and services, and provides opportunities for local entrepreneurs to meet those needs. Workforce training programs can ensure neighborhood residents are ready for these opportunities. Local employment commitments from businesses working in the Green Impact Zone will also play a role.


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COORDINATION OF DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND SERVICES • Layer Development and Infrastructure Investments • Neighborhood Business Support • Public Investment as Development Incentive • Collaborative Partnerships Between Organizations • Alignment of Departments and Services

Within the Manheim Park Neighborhood and Green Impact Zone more broadly, there is a unique opportunity for new development to demonstrate how a coordinated approach with public, private, non-profit, and neighborhood stakeholders can have a significant impact on the vitality and long-term sustainability of an area. Demonstrating public commitment through infrastructure, facility improvements, and other public investments is a powerful tool to attract a higher quality, more diverse mix of businesses. Coordinating these investments with new private development helps to focus energy and leverage scarce resources for maximum impact. Collaborative partnerships between organizations and strategic alignment within City departments are both critical components to sustain momentum and address needs in a holistic and transformative way.

Public infrastructure as development incentive: Public infrastructure on Troost north of Manheim Park is an incentive for private development.


PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES | 49

COORDINATION OF DEVELOPMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND SERVICES GUIDELINES

□□ NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS SUPPORT:

Increase employment opportunities and enhance retail and services for local residents through investments and incentives to support neighborhood businesses.

□□ LAYER DEVELOPMENT AND

Business Support: This business incubator in Greensburg, Kansas provides low cost start up space for local businesses.

INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS:

Strategically coordinate development with existing and planned investments in infrastructure, transit, community spaces, and public facilities to leverage scarce resources and maximize the impact of public and private investments.

□□ PUBLIC INVESTMENT AS DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE:

Demonstrate public commitment to the neighborhood through infrastructure, facility improvements, and other public investments to attract a higher quality, more diverse mix of businesses.

□□ COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS:

Expand successful partnerships between the City, Green Impact Zone, neighborhood groups, service organizations, the faith community, and other stakeholders to coordinate efforts, sustain momentum, and address community needs on a variety of issues.

Alignment of Departments: Development in Manheim Park is an opportunity for the City to demonstrate its improved coordination between city departments.

□□ ALIGNMENT OF DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES:

Demonstrate a new model of alignment for City departments and other organizations through strategic coordination of improvements, sharing of resources and facilities, and cooperation to address needs and track progress in a holistic manner.

Collaborative Partnerships: Partnerships and collaboration between all stakeholders in Manheim Park will lead to the best outcome.


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CHAPTER 4

Process Framework


52

DEVELOPMENT STAKEHOLDERS AND RELATIONSHIPS Successful development in the Manheim Park neighborhood must support the neighborhood vision and build the capacity of residents while remaining viable and attractive for private investment. Achieving these goals depends on coordination and collaboration between several groups of stakeholders. This section identifies these stakeholders and describes the supportive relationships and interactions that together encourage new quality development.

DEVELOPERS Developers are interested in building large scale projects, such as mixed use buildings, apartment buildings, rowhouses, or multiple single family houses in the neighborhood.

GREEN IMPACT ZONE The Green Impact is uniquely positioned to align and mobilize a variety of partners and entities to enhance the capacity and vitality of the neighborhood. The Green Impact Zone is simultaneously a resource for interested developers, a supportive infrastructure for residents and neighborhood groups, and a coordinator between the City, the neighborhood, and many other groups.

INDIVIDUAL BUILDERS This group includes people who are interested in development smaller projects such as an individual single family house or a significant renovation of an existing CITY house. The City of Kansas City, Missouri plays two distinct roles in the development of the Manheim Park Neighborhood. NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION The first is in its review and oversight capacity for new The Neighborhood Association represents neighborhood development through permitting, code enforcement, residents. This group includes the Neighborhood incentives, and other mechanisms. No less important, Association board and supporting committees, such as the City plays a critical role through direct investment in the housing committee and workforce committee. infrastructure, services, and amenities.


PROCESS FRAMEWORK | 53

The Green Impact Zone functions as an informational resource for developers and helps guide interested developers and investors toward successful and impactful projects. The Green Impact Zone also actively pursues new investment through marketing of Green Impact Zone potential.

Developers

Major Developers Individual Homebuilders and Renovators

In coordination with the Green Impact Zone and in support of neighborhood goals, the City provides development review, approval, and enforcement, as well as financial and regulatory incentives to encourage projects that achieve Green Impact Zone and neighborhood goals.

The neighborhood provides guidance and a sounding board for developers to identify potential opportunities, and to ensure that projects are supportive of neighborhood goals, integrate with a coherent development vision, and enhance the vitality and quality of life for residents.

Historic Manheim Park Neighborhood Association

The Green Impact Zone provides support to build capacity of residents and neighborhood organizations. The Green Impact Zone also aligns partners to achieve neighborhood goals.

Neighborhood Association Board Committees

Green Impact Zone

The City supports the neighborhood through development review and approval, as well as code enforcement. The City directly invests in the neighborhood through infrastructure and services.

City of Kansas City, MO

The City and Green Impact Zone coordinate to ensure that City action and investment are aligned with Green Impact Zone and neighborhood goals.

Al

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Pa

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y Cit

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m art


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ENGAGEMENT PROCESS

ve

lop

DISCOVER During the Discover phase process the developer researches the neighborhood and existing plans, contacts the Green Impact Zone, and begins exploring project ideas with the Neighborhood Association. The City should also research existing plans and meet with the Green Impact Zone and Neighborhood Association when considering infrastructure and service investments in the neighborhood.

De

n sig De

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For development to be successful and fulfill the vision of the Manheim Park neighborhood, all entities involved in the development process must be engaged throughout the process. The following chart highlights the points in the development process where the development entities engage each other. Engagement in the development process can be broken into three phases: Discover, Design, and Develop.

DESIGN As the project moves forward, the developer should continue to meet with the neighborhood to refine the project design and align the project with neighborhood goals. The developer and the City should coordinate to find opportunities for partnerships. Departments within the City should coordinate as well. At the end of this phase, the neighborhood association should give approval (or suggest changes) for the development or city project.

DEVELOP During the develop phase, the developer will meet with the City to secure the approvals necessary to proceed. The developer should also work in cooperation with the neighborhood’s workforce committee and the Green Impact Zone to pursue local employment opportunities related to the project.


City (Infrastructure / Investment Role)

City (Regulatory Role)

Green Impact Zone

Neighborhood Associations

Individual Builders

Developers

PROCESS FRAMEWORK | 55

DISCOVER

Action: Research the development strategy, performance guidelines, and process framework Action: Contact Green Impact Zone (research, guidance, investment and development opportunities) Meeting: Discuss opportunities and potential development program Align developer interests and neighborhood vision Participants: Neighborhood Association Housing Committee, Green Impact Zone, Developers/Builders/City)

Action: Develop concepts

DESIGN

Action: Identify opportunities to coordinate public and private investment

Action: Identify opportunities to strategically align departments and organizations Meeting: Refine development concepts Secure recommendation from Neighborhood Association OR make changes and repeat Participants: Neighborhood Association Housing Committee, Green Impact Zone, Developers/Builders/City) Meeting: Review project and City development review expectations Participants: Developers / Builders, City

DEVELOP

Action: Identify potential financial or regulatory incentives

Action: Secure City permits and approvals Meeting: Develop local employment strategies Participants: Neighborhood Association Workforce Committee, Green Impact Zone, Developers/Builders/City)


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DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

1. Neighborhood Vision 2. Project Idea and Feasibility 3. Community Engagement and Design

3. Community Engagement and Design

4. Financial Plan and Bidding

4. Financial Plan and Bidding

5. Begin Hiring and Construction

era

te

1. NEIGHBORHOOD VISION The recent development interest in Manheim Park began with the Manheim Park Healthy Neighborhood Initiatives in 2008-9. This development strategy builds on past efforts to provide all stakeholders greater clarity and direction for how projects can help the neighborhood achieve its vision. Developers interested in working in Manheim Park should start by reviewing existing plans and other materials including the Manheim Park Healthy Neighborhoods Vision Document and this Development Strategy.

Op

lop ve De

n sig De

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ve

r

Developers go through a detailed process of planning and design before groundbreaking occurs on any project. It is important to understand the development process in order to know how community input can most effectively enhance a project and when key events, such as hiring of local workers can occur. The diagram below and following descriptions illustrate this process.

6. Ongoing Operations

2. PROJECT IDEA AND FEASIBILITY The developer should refine the project idea in coordination with the Neighborhood Association and the Green Impact Zone. The developer will study the feasibility of the project from a financial standpoint and identify funding resources. If the project aligns with the vision and goals of the neighborhood and is financial feasible, the developer will move ahead to the next phase, community engagement and design.


PROCESS FRAMEWORK | 57

3. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND DESIGN During this phase, the developer hires an architect to begin the design process. At the beginning of this phase the developer and architect should take the outline of the project idea to the residents and businesses of Manheim Park to seek their input on the project. The public will have a chance to review the project, give input, and influence the design of the project. The developer will refine the project idea based on the community’s feedback. This process should be ongoing with multiple points where public input is considered, and the community is kept up to date on the project progress.

4. FINANCIAL PLAN AND BIDDING The phase involves the detailed financial planning of the construction of the project and the selection of contractors to do the work. In most large projects, the developer receives bids from interested contractors. A large contractor may then select subcontractors to complete the work.

5. BEGIN HIRING AND CONSTRUCTION After the financial plan and contractors are in place, the contractor and subcontractors begin hiring staff, and construction begins on the project. The construction process involves continued design and financial work by the development team and multiple rounds of hiring for different kinds of work.

6. ONGOING OPERATIONS The ongoing operation of the building provides additional opportunities for the neighborhood. Residential properties need property managers and workers to maintain the buildings and the site. If the site has retail, office, or other nonresidential use, there are opportunities for local employment with businesses and opportunities for neighborhood entrepreneurs to establish new businesses.


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APPENDIX

Health Impact Assessment


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Manheim Park Development Strategy Health Impact Assessment


HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENT | 61

Table of Contents

Who we are: .................................................................................................................................. 3 Why we are doing this HIA on the Manheim Park Development Strategy: ................................... 3 What is a Health Impact Assessment? ......................................................................................... 4 Background: the Manheim Park neighborhood ............................................................................. 5 Manheim Park Demographics ....................................................................................................... 6 Race/Ethnicity ........................................................................................................................... 6 Age ............................................................................................................................................ 6 Female-headed Households ..................................................................................................... 6 Employment and Education ...................................................................................................... 7 Household Income .................................................................................................................... 7 Means of Transportation to Work .............................................................................................. 8 Physical Characteristics of Manheim Park .................................................................................... 8 Health Data ................................................................................................................................... 9 Asthma ...................................................................................................................................... 9 Diabetes (Type 2) .................................................................................................................... 10 Hypertension ........................................................................................................................... 11 Lead Exposure in Children ...................................................................................................... 12 Workshop Participation and Feedback ....................................................................................... 13 Manheim Park Development Strategy: How it Addresses Health ............................................... 15 Performance Guidelines .......................................................................................................... 16 Sustainable Building ............................................................................................................ 16 Safe and Healthy Living ....................................................................................................... 16 Cultural Heritage and Neighborhood Fabric ........................................................................ 16 Integrated Services and Amenities ...................................................................................... 17 Capacity Building, Skill Training, and Workforce Development ........................................... 17 Physical Infrastructure ......................................................................................................... 17 Access to Jobs and Services ............................................................................................... 17 Open Space and Public Space ............................................................................................ 18 Coordination of Development, Infrastructure, and Services ................................................ 18 Diverse Housing Options ..................................................................................................... 18 Recommendations ...................................................................................................................... 19 Sustainable Building ................................................................................................................ 19

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HIA-SB-1 ..............................................................................................................................19 Safe and Healthy Living .......................................................................................................... 19 HIA-HL-1 .............................................................................................................................. 19 HIA-HL-2 .............................................................................................................................. 20 HIA-HL-3 .............................................................................................................................. 21 Cultural Heritage and Neighborhood Fabric ............................................................................ 21 HIA-CH-1 ............................................................................................................................. 21 Integrated Services and Amenities .......................................................................................... 21 HIA-IA-1 ............................................................................................................................... 21 Physical Infrastructure ............................................................................................................. 22 HIA-PI-1 ............................................................................................................................... 22 HIA-PI-2 ............................................................................................................................... 22 Open Space and Public Space ............................................................................................... 23 HIA-PS-1 ..............................................................................................................................23 HIA-PS-2 ..............................................................................................................................24

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HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENT | 63

Who we are Active Living KC (ALKC) is an initiative of the City of Kansas City, Missouri that encourages healthy lifestyles by putting regular physical activity back into our daily routines and encouraging healthy eating. The initiative is led by the Public Works Department, but includes collaboration with other City departments, namely City Planning and Development and Health. ALKC was designed as a three-year pilot project, partially funded by the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City. Conducting a Health Impact Assessment was part of ALKC’s goals for Year Two. Why we are doing a HIA on the Manheim Park Development Strategy?

Conversations with Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) led ALKC staff to work with BNIM, an architecture firm involved with the redevelopment of the Bancroft School into 50 dwelling units with additional community space. ALKC staff learned that BNIM was creating a Development Strategy document for Manheim Park as a whole. The goal of the Development Strategy is to provide the Manheim community with a set of tools to shape development as it comes into the neighborhood. In discussions with BNIM, representatives from the Manheim Park Neighborhood Association, and the Green Impact Zone all parties agreed that a HIA would be a valuable attachment to the Development Strategy. The Manheim Park Development Strategy document is divided into four chapters: Introduction, Development Concepts, Performance Guidelines, and Process Framework. Within the Introduction, there is a subsection called, “How to use this document.” The main goal of the document is to provide the Manheim Park neighborhood with a set of tools that residents can use to attract the types of development they would like to see. However, other entities may also use the Development Strategy. Here is a summary of how the document envisions use by different stakeholders: 

Neighborhood Organizations: “a tool to assist residents in achieving the neighborhood transformation they desire…the process framework helps to clarify and ensure the neighborhood’s role and input in proposed development within the neighborhood.” Green Impact Zone: a tool “to ensure that the development within the Zone is coordinated with the broader goals of the Green Impact Zone…to achieve maximum impact.” Community Development Organizations and Private Developers: “a tool to provide guidance to interested developers about the broader development vision for the neighborhood [and]…leverage existing and proposed investments.” City: a tool to “establish a path for more integrated and strategic service delivery, and by so doing, help to achieve many of the goals of the Green Impact Zone and Manheim Park neighborhood.”

All of these groups will benefit from the recommendations included in this HIA.

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64

The third chapter of the Development Strategy, Performance Guidelines, is the section evaluated by this HIA. The Performance Guidelines “translate the larger goals of the Green Impact Zone and the Manheim Neighborhood into specific guidelines for projects.” The guidelines are broken down into ten topics: (1) Sustainable Building, (2) Safe and Healthy Living, (3) Cultural Heritage and Neighborhood Fabric, (4) Integrated Services and Amenities, (5) Capacity Building, Skill Training, and Workforce Development, (6) Physical Infrastructure, (7) Access to Jobs and Services, (8) Open Space and Public Space, (9) Coordination of Development, Infrastructure, and Services, and (10) Diverse Housing Options. This HIA draws from guidelines in seven of these ten topic areas to form recommendations based on improving four health outcomes: asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and childhood lead exposure. What is a Health Impact Assessment? A Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is a report on how a plan, development, or policy impacts health in both positive and negative ways. For a HIA to be effective, the entity doing the HIA must engage in the plan/development/policy in question during the early stages to allow for the resulting recommendations to shape the final product. HIA development follows the following simple format: 1. Screening: Is there a need for a HIA? 2. Scoping: What are the main health impacts to be evaluated? 3. Assessment: What is the magnitude and distribution of the health impacts of the plan/development/policy to be examined? 4. Recommendations: What should be changed in the plan/development/policy to create better health outcomes? 5. Reporting: Create a HIA report for decision-makers and community members 6. Evaluation: Did the HIA follow the appropriate steps…did it have an impact? For this HIA, the screening component consisted of the conversations ALKC staff had with the Manheim Park Neighborhood Association, Green Impact Zone, and MARC staff to determine if a HIA would enhance the Development Strategy. Once it was decided that a HIA would be a useful addition to the document, ALKC staff started the scoping process. ALKC chose to evaluate asthma, diabetes, hypertension and childhood lead exposure after considering the demographics and housing characteristics of the neighborhood and the available data. The KCMO Health Department staff epidemiologist gathered data on these health impacts for Manheim Park and the city as a whole. ALKC staff assessed the data—first on its own, and then in terms of how it relates to the Development Strategy’s Performance Guidelines. The recommendations that follow were informed by the assessment, fieldwork, and feedback received at the community workshop. The reporting component of the HIA is contained in this document and summarized in a one page handout. In the coming year, ALKC staff plan on

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HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENT | 65

following up with the Neighborhood Association to track if HIA recommendations prove useful in order to evaluate the impact of the HIA on Manheim Park. Background: the Manheim Park neighborhood Manheim Park is a historic neighborhood that runs between 39th Street in the north to Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard in the south and from Troost Boulevard in the west to the Paseo in the east. It is one of the neighborhoods located in Kansas City’s Green Impact Zone. The Green Impact Zone is a cooperative effort to focus federal stimulus funds on projects in a targeted area in KCMO (see Green Impact Zone map, below).

Immanuel Lutheran Church, Manheim Park, completed in 1931

Proposed by U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, the purpose of the Zone is to strengthen neighborhoods, create jobs, and improve energy efficiency. The initiative includes housing rehabilitation and weatherization programs, community policing and services, job training and placement, health and wellness programs built around a comprehensive neighborhood outreach program, and using sustainability as a catalyst for transformation. Twenty-five percent of properties in the Zone are vacant lots while another 6 percent contain vacant structures. Median home prices for the area are under $30,000.1

The Green Impact Zone and surrounding points of interest

1

http://www.greenimpactzone.org/About/index.aspx

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Manheim Park Demographics This section describes the following demographic characteristics about the residents of Manheim Park in comparison with KCMO as a whole: Race and Ethnicity, Age, Female-headed Households, Employment and Education, Household Income, and Means of Transportation to Work. Race/Ethnicity According to the 2010 Census, 1,357 people live in Manheim Park. The neighborhood is 78.6 percent African American, 14.7 percent white, 7.4 percent Hispanic, with 6.8 percent identifying as some other race. In comparison, in KCMO as a whole African American residents make up a smaller (29.9%) proportion of the population while white residents make up a larger (59.2%) proportion. Table X: Race and Ethnicity in Manheim Park v. KCMO as a whole

White African American Other Races Hispanic Origin (of any race)

Manheim Park Number Percent 199 14.7 1,066 78.6 92 6.8 100 7.4

KCMO Number Percent 272,303 59.2 137,539 29.9 49,945 10.9 45,961 10.0

Source: Census 2010

Age The median age of Manheim Park residents, 32.9, is slightly lower than the median for Kansas City as a whole (34.7). Table X: Age in Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Under 5 5 to 19 20 to 34 35 to 54 55 to 64 65 and older Median Age

Manheim Park Number Percent 121 8.9 337 24.8 257 18.9 395 29.1 143 10.5 104 7.7 32.9 -

KCMO Number Percent 34,557 7.5% 88,371 19.2% 109,533 23.8% 125,903 27.4% 50,717 11.0% 50,706 11.0% 34.7 -

Source: Census 2010

Female-headed Households The 2010 Census counted that 30.7 percent of households in Manheim Park were headed by women. Of these female-headed households, 19.3 percent had children under 18. In Kansas

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HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENT | 67

City as whole, approximately 9 percent of households were headed by women with children under 18. Table X: Female-headed Households in Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Female-headed households With own children under 18 Without own children under 18

Manheim Park Number Percent 164 30.7 103 19.3 61 11.4

KCMO Number 31,026 17,958 13,068

Percent 16.1 9.3 6.8

Source: Census 2010

Employment and Education The 2006-2010 American Community Survey (ACS) reports that 174 residents ages 16 and older who were in the labor force—or 28.7 percent of Manheim Park’s labor force—were unemployed. Of Manheim residents who are 25 years old or older, 71.1 percent have at least a high school education. Conversely, only 9 percent of KCMO’s workforce was unemployed during the same time period. Almost 87 percent of Kansas Citians have at least a high school education. Table X: Unemployment and Education in Manheim Park Manheim Park Number Percent Unemployment (among civilians 16 or older in labor force) Persons 25+ with at least a high school education

KCMO Number Percent

174

28.7

22,437

9.0

621

71.1

263,608

86.6

Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Household Income The median household income in Manheim Park is $34,875 per year, according to the 2010 Census. This is 61.7 percent of the median annual income of Kansas City as a whole. While 5.2 percent of Manheim households earn $75,000 or more annually, 27 percent of Kansas City households as a whole have this level of household earnings. Table X: Household Income in Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Under $10,000 $10,000 to $19,999 $20,000 to $29,999 $30,000 to $39,999 $40,000 to $49,999

Number 79 59 94 124 39

Manheim Park Percent 14.8 11.1 17.6 23.2 7.4

KCMO Number Percent 19,582 10.2 22,483 11.7 24,173 12.6 21,067 11.0 18,944 9.8

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68

$50,000 to $59,999 $60,000 to $74,999 $75,000 or more Median Household Income

76 35 27

14.3 6.5 5.2

$34,875

-

15,746 18,395 51,955

$ 44,629

8.2 9.6 27.0 -

Source: 2006‐2010 ACS

Means of Transportation to Work While 56.8 percent of Manheim Park residents drove to work alone, another 12.7 percent carpooled, 26.5 percent took public transit, and 3.9 percent walked. The commuting habits of Manheim Park residents vary greatly from those of workers in Kansas City as a whole. Overall, 80.4 percent of KCMO residents drive to work alone while 9.3 percent carpool, 3.7 percent take transit and 2.2 percent walk. Table X: Means of Transportation to Work in Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Drove Alone Car Pool Public Transit

Manheim Park Number Percent 234

56.8

182,257

80.4

52

12.7

21,123

9.3

109

26.5

8,395

3.7

-

-

504

0.2

16

3.9

4,936

2.2

-

-

2,372

1.0

-

-

7,050

3.1

Bicycle Walked Other Means Worked At Home

Source: 2006-2010 ACS

KCMO Number Percent

The Troost Max serves Manheim

Physical Characteristics of Manheim Park Out of the 843 parcels in Manheim Park, 467 contain single family homes. Just over 36 percent of these homes are owner-occupied.2 Renter-occupied housing units make up almost 64 percent of the housing in Manheim; about 36 percent of the housing units in the neighborhood are vacant. Within the 32 square blocks of Manheim, there are 47 vacant lots according to the UMKC Center for Economic Information’s interactive website. Of the 47, 32 of the vacant lots are rated as substandard or blighted, with overgrown vegetation. The blighted conditions and low visibility caused by overgrown brush have made these lots targets for illegal dumping, drug trafficking and other illicit behavior. These conditions contribute to an environment where it may 2

2010 Census, UMKC Center for Economic Information.

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HEALTH IMPACT ASSESSMENT | 69

not feel safe for residents to exercise outdoors, utilize the community’s green spaces and garden.3

There are many vacant lots and homes in Manheim Park.

Health Data ALKC staff identified four chronic health issues that were likely to be impacted by the built environment in Manheim Park: asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and lead exposure in children. Data for these health issues was obtained for Manheim Park and the city as a whole from the KCMO Health Department staff epidemiologist. What follows is a description of the health issues along with hospitalization and emergency visit rates (or in the case of childhood lead exposure, blood lead levels) for Manheim Park and KCMO as a whole. Asthma Asthma is a disorder that causes the airways of the lungs to swell and narrow. Triggers for asthma include animal hair or dander, dust, chemicals, mold, pollen, the common cold, stress, smoking, and air pollution such as vehicle exhaust. When a person is having an asthma attack, symptoms may include wheezing, a shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Nationwide, incidence of asthma is on the rise: the percentage of the U.S. population with asthma has increased from 7.3 percent in 2001 to 8.4 percent in 2010. Asthma is more common among children than adults and is also more common among people of color. Between 2001 and 2009, African American people with asthma had higher rates of asthma emergency room visits and hospitalizations than white people with asthma.4 Between 2005 and 2010, the hospitalization rate per 1,000 residents for asthma in Manheim Park was 3.8 while the rate for KCMO as a whole was only 2 per 1,000 residents. Likewise, the

3 4

2010 Census, UMKC Center for Economic Information. http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db94.htm

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Chart 1: Rate of Asthma Hospitalizations: Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Chart 2: Rate of Asthma Emergency Visits: Manheim Park v. KCMO as Whole

4.0

25.0

Rate per 1,000 residents

Rater per 1,000 residents

3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0

20.0 15.0 10.0

5.0 0.0

Manheim Park

KCMO

Manheim Park

KCMO

KCMO Health Department, 2012. http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes‐basics/symptoms/, http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/pdf/ndfs_2011.pdf

10

Manheim Park during the same time period was 6.9 per 1,000 while the rate for KCMO as a whole was 2.7 per 1,000. Chart 3: Rate of Diabetes Hospitalizations: Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Chart 4: Rate of Diabetes Emergency Visits: Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

6.0

8.0

5.0

Rate per 1,000 residents

70

The rate of hospitalization for diabetes per 1,000 residents between 2005 and 2010 in Manheim Park was 5.2 versus 2.4 in KCMO as a whole. The rate of emergency department visits for 5 6

Rater per 1,000 residents

emergency department rate per 1,000 residents was 19.7 in Manheim Park versus 8.2 for KCMO as a whole.5

While additional research and study would be needed to ascertain why asthma hospitalizations and emergency visits are elevated in Manheim Park, possible reasons include: lack of access to regular medical care and/or medication, higher levels of air pollution, in addition to homes and other buildings that support mold, dust, or the presence of other asthma triggers. Factors that contribute to poor indoor air quality are addressed in this HIA. Diabetes (Type 2)

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot make or use insulin properly. Insulin is necessary for the regulation of sugar used to fuel the body’s cells. When sugar builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can lead to complications. Risk factors for diabetes include being overweight or obese, being over 45 years in age, having a family history of diabetes, physical inactivity, and hypertension. Symptoms include excessive thirst or hunger, frequent urination, weight loss, and high fasting blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is increasing in the U.S. and is more common in people of color and adults over 45. Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, and new cases of blindness among adults. Diabetes is also a major cause of heart disease and stroke. 6

4.0 3.0 2.0 1.0 0.0

7.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.0 0.0

Manheim Park

KCMO

Manheim Park

KCMO

Further study could examine why there are higher rates of hospitalization and emergency visits in Manheim Park. Possible reasons include: lack of access to regular medical care and/or medications, not taking medication as directed, genetic factors, and lack of access (physical and economic) to fresh fruits and vegetables, and opportunities to exercise. This HIA addresses the access to healthy food and physical activity opportunities as they are related to the built environment. Hypertension Hypertension is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated, i.e. high blood pressure. Risk factors for hypertension include a family history, being overweight or obese, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol intake. Often there are no warning signs or symptoms so many people with high blood pressure do not know they have it.7 Hypertension is increasing in the U.S. In 2009, more than 30 percent of Missouri adults reported having high blood pressure, compared with 31.9 percent of adults in the U.S. as a whole.8 Between 2005 and 2010, the hospitalization rate per 1,000 residents in Manheim Park for hypertension was 4.8 while the rate for KCMO as a whole was 1.4. The rate of emergency department visits per 1,000 residents in Manheim Park for hypertension was 9.3 while the rate for KCMO as a whole was 3.1.

7 8

http://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_bloodpressure.htm http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16533126

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Chart 5: Rate of Hypertension Hospitalizations: Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole

Chart 6: Rate of Hypertension Emergency Visits: Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole 10.0

5.0

Rate per 1,000 residents

Rate per 1,000 residents

6.0

4.0 3.0 2.0 1.0 0.0

8.0 6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0

Manheim Park

KCMO

Manheim Park

KCMO

Research would be needed to determine why the rates of hospitalization and emergency visits for hypertension are higher in Manheim Park. Possible explanations include: genetic factors, lack of opportunities to exercise, or lack of access to or knowledge about diets that promote healthy blood pressure. Since this HIA is concerned with how the built environment influences health, issues of exercise and diet are addressed. Lead Exposure in Children Exposure to lead as a child can lead to a variety of health and developmental issues. Risk factors for childhood lead exposure include living in an older home with internal and/or external lead paint. Houses with pre-1978 paint may contain lead hazards. Symptoms of lead exposure in children include anemia, kidney damage, colic, brain impairment or delay, impaired vitamin D metabolism, slower growth, and delayed sexual maturation. Blood lead levels in children have decreased in the U.S., but approximately 25 percent of children still live in housing with deteriorated lead-based paint.9 In Manheim Park, the rate of lead exposure greater than or equal to 4 micrograms per deciliter (blood lead level) per 1,000 children was 10.5 versus 7.8 in KCMO as a whole.

9

http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/116/4/1036.full

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Chart 7: Rate of Lead Exposure in Children ≥ 4 mcg/dl: Manheim Park v. KCMO as a Whole 12.0 Rate per 1,000 children

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10.0 8.0 6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0 Manheim Park

KCMO

Further investigation would need to be conducted to determine why the rate of unsafe lead exposure in children is elevated in Manheim Park. However, it is very likely that it is due to the higher concentration of homes built before 1978—in Manheim, almost 80 percent of homes were built before 1970. In KCMO as a whole, only about 60 percent of homes were built before 1970.10 This HIA addresses childhood lead exposure because it is a built environment issue.

Workshop Participation and Feedback ALKC staff hosted the Manheim Park Health Impact Assessment Workshop on Saturday, September 8th, 2012 from 9:00AM to 10:00AM at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Manheim Park. The meeting was scheduled for the hour before the Manheim Park Neighborhood Association’s regularly scheduled monthly meeting in order to make attendance easier for neighborhood residents. To encourage residents to attend, flyers were distributed to all Manheim Park residences the Wednesday before the workshop. The flyers described what attendees should expect: neighborhood health would be discussed at a special workshop with the goal of coming up with recommendations for changes to the built environment in Manheim Park that could improve health. In total, 12 residents attended. The Neighborhood Association plans to use momentum from the workshop establish a group of residents for a Health and Wellness Committee. Workshop attendees and the two ALKC staff presenters sat at tables set up in a circle. The presentation was in PowerPoint format, but was also provided as printed handouts. ALKC staff described that the purpose of the workshop was to present public health data and gather feedback from workshop attendees on the health issues we would be presenting as well as other health issues of concern. ALKC staff emphasized that while there are probably many health issues that residents care about, the aim of the workshop was to discuss health issues

10

2011 ACS 1‐Year Estimates

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that can be impacted by the physical environment and infrastructure. To bring focus to the physical environment, ALKC staff led attendees through a map exercise to think about important health issues that could be affected by the physical environment. Workshop attendees were asked to place stickers on a neighborhood map to indicate where specific development/infrastructure changes should be made to positively impact health in Manheim. Workshop attendees placed stickers and labels on a map of Manheim Park indicating physical changes that they think would positively influence the health of Manheim residents.

In a group discussion, the following comments/suggestions were made by workshop attendees:     

     

We have a lot of resources like parks, maybe have a neighborhood monthly picnic. Put an exercise room in the gymnasium in Bancroft. Use the kitchen in Bancroft for healthy eating/nutrition classes for the neighborhood. There will be a community garden on the Bancroft property that will be for the whole neighborhood to use. A high percentage of neighborhood residents that use the church’s food pantry have diabetes and sometimes the foods that Harvesters provides are not that healthy. We need more fruits and vegetables. Do the current Walgreens (Cleaver and Troost) and CVS (46th and Troost) stores offer some medical care? Do they have services besides blood pressure checks? [ALKC staff called these two stores. Both only offer blood pressure screening and flu shots, although other Kansas City locations do have health clinics staffed with nurse practitioners.] Allow kids to play on vacant lots (they do it now anyway, so we should make it safe for them.) Reuse vacant lots for local markets. Land bank efforts should be linked throughout the neighborhood. There is a start-up (two week old) farmers’ market at Cleaver and Troost near the True Value Hardware. Move the Apple Market. Keep lots clean and maintained. 14


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 

There’s a need for a crew to keep the neighborhood clean. Trash cans are good, but they need to be emptied.

Workshop participants placed stickers with the following labels on the map to indicate changes to Manheim’s physical environment that they think would improve health:               

Walgreens Health Clinic (west side of Troost, between 46th and Cleaver) Farmers’ Market Park/Garden (southwest corner of Troost and 46th) Garden market (southeast corner of Troost and 46th) CVS Health Clinic (east side of Troost, between 45th and 46th) Habitat for Humanity Garden (north side of 46th, between Tracy and Virginia) Vacant houses needing to be torn down (north side of 44th, between Forest and Tracy) Vacant houses needing to be torn down (west side of Tracy, between 43rd and 44th) Early Education Center (east side of Troost, between 43rd and 44th) Community Center (east side of Troost, between 43rd and 44th—north of Early Education Center) Parking lot (north side of 44th, between Troost and Forest) Playground (north side of 44th, between Troost and Forest—east of parking lot) Garden (east side of Forest, between 43rd and 44th) Gym (former Bancroft School site, southeast corner of Forest and 43rd) Teaching kitchen (former Bancroft School site, southeast corner of Forest and 43rd) Community Garden (east side of Forest, between 42nd and 43rd—this garden is existing)

Manheim Park Development Strategy: How it Addresses Health The Development Strategy document, as discussed earlier, is meant to serve Manheim Park and those who are working to help the community achieve its vision. Among other previous public participation processes, including workshops held in conjunction with the creation of the City’s comprehensive (i.e. FOCUS) plan and the current Midtown Plaza Area Plan planning process, the Development Strategy draws on the work that was done in 2008 to create the Manheim Park Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative Vision Document. The vision for Manheim that came out the Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative Vision Document was: An interconnected community empowered by the people, supporting the health and wellbeing of all residents, valuing attractive homes and vibrant businesses, and uniting around a common goal for a restorative future. The Development Strategy builds off of this vision through the inclusion of Active Living/Healthy Eating principles—especially in the Safe and Healthy Living, Physical Infrastructure, Access to Jobs and Services, and Open Space and Public Space sub-sections of the Performance Guidelines section. What follows is a description of how the various Performance Guidelines incorporate the health outcomes that this HIA addresses: asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and childhood lead exposure. Included in these descriptions are references to this HIA’s

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recommendations (see page #X) that stem from particular Performance Guidelines. It should be noted that not all Performance Guideline categories produced HIA recommendations. Performance Guidelines Sustainable Building This guideline emphasizes energy efficiency, water conservation and management, and innovative design and construction that can improve the health, durability, efficiency, and sustainability of a building. Included is a discussion of increased building efficiency and its ability to improve air quality. Improved air quality through energy efficiency as well as through the use of healthy building materials (i.e. low or no VOC and mold-resistant building materials) have the potential to lower asthma rates and the incidence of asthma in the community (see Recommendation HIA-SB-1). Safe and Healthy Living This guideline addresses multiple factors, including physical improvements to deter crime and enhance safety; other street/pedestrian improvements; property maintenance; healthy building materials [this echoes the “Sustainable Building” topic], walkable neighborhoods, access to healthy foods; and understanding neighborhood health challenges. Public safety greatly impacts residents’ ability to be pedestrians and allow their children to play outdoors in their neighborhood, and therefore directly affects obesity. The Safe and Healthy Living section describes how safety in Manheim Park has improved dramatically over the last few years due to an increased police presence, better police/community relations, and residents reporting crime. Still, more “eyes on the street” are needed to further improve safety in Manheim. Therefore, this section calls for increased densities at activity centers with development oriented towards the street and other gathering places. This guideline also suggests making street and sidewalk infrastructure attractive to entice people to walk and bike, using mold-resident materials inside buildings (this could decrease asthma incidence—also see Sustainable Building), providing multi-use trails and parks, and improving local access to healthy foods (i.e. locating vendors that sell fresh fruits and vegetables in activity centers) (see Recommendations HIA-HL-, HIA-HL-2, and HIA-HL-3). Implementing some or all of the strategies described in this guideline would create an environment more supportive of exercising outside and eating healthy foods. If residents took advantage of these changes, it could lead to a decrease in the incidence of diabetes and hypertension in Manheim Park. Cultural Heritage and Neighborhood Fabric This guideline focuses on community engagement, responding to neighborhood needs, preservation and restoration, and contextual development. Given that many historic buildings in Manheim Park may contain lead-based paint in their interiors or on their exteriors, opportunities to preserve historic buildings and also improve health are possible through remediation (see Recommendation HIA-CH-1).

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Integrated Services and Amenities This guideline emphasizes the creation of complete and supportive communities with shared spaces and coordinated programming. This guideline specifically identifies community gardens, parks, recreational opportunities, community facilities, health and wellness services, educational services, and cultural and social venues. These amenities have the potential to impact obesity, hypertension, and asthma. Recommendation HIA-IA-1 seeks to increase residents’ use of neighborhood parks.

Manheim Green Park

Capacity Building, Skill Training, and Workforce Development This guideline includes efforts to promote education, training, skill development, and selfsufficiency. These strategies are called out as ways that new development can help to support and maintain the Manheim Park neighborhood over time. Local business development is also highlighted. Gaining secure employment is very important to health—employed people can access health insurance for themselves and their families, and are more likely to be able to have money for necessary medication, fresh fruits and vegetables, and other resources. Being employed therefore, directly impacts health, including all of the health issues discussed in this HIA. No recommendations directly stem from this guideline; however, as this HIA focuses on changes to the built/physical environment that can impact health, capacity building, skill training, and workforce development are highly important to ensuring a healthy community. Physical Infrastructure This guideline highlights mobility and connectivity (see Recommendation HIA-PI-2), streetscape enhancements, facility improvements, repair and maintenance, green infrastructure, and targeted improvements. Complete Streets—or streets that allow for pedestrians, bicyclists, and cars to safely and comfortably move from place to place—are very important as they allow communities to take advantage of their outdoor spaces for physical activity. As discussed earlier, lack of exercise is a risk factor for diabetes and hypertension. The City of Kansas City, Mo., with funding from a federal TIGER grant is replacing damaged sidewalks, curbs, and other infrastructure throughout the Green Impact Zone. During fall 2012, infrastructure is being replaced in the portion of Manheim south of 43rd Street; improvements north of 43rd to 39th will occur during the summer of 2013. In addition, the City is moving ahead with the demolition/deconstruction of 13 vacant houses in Manheim (see Recommendation HIA-PI-1). Access to Jobs and Services

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This guideline emphasizes convenient and accessible retail and services, activity centers, business variety, mixed use and transit-oriented development, and enhanced mobility and connectivity. Cleaver and the Paseo will become signed bicycle routes in 2013, encouraging Manheim residents to use active transportation both within and from their neighborhood to access jobs and services, or simply for recreation. As discussed in the Demographics section of this HIA, large percentages of Manheim residents currently walk or take transit to work. Opportunities to enhance mobility will further improve the health and welfare of residents. For instance, a TIGER grant (described under Physical Infrastructure provides for all sidewalks and curbs to be replaced in Manheim Park (as well as in other locations in the Green Impact Zone), facilitating an environment that encourages walking and easy access to public transit. No recommendations directly come from this guideline but many touch on the themes encompassed by access to jobs and services. Open Space and Public Space This guideline focuses on using open space as a catalyst, coordination with other amenities and public facilities, interconnected and multi-functional open space, vacant lot mitigation, and sensitive site protection. Outdoor spaces are generally a great place to be physically active. This section discusses opportunities to reuse vacant lots or surface parking for recreation, community gardens and farmers’ markets (see Recommendation HIA-PS-1). Recommendation HIA-PS-2 seeks to clean up public spaces in the neighborhood. Coordination of Development, Infrastructure, and Services

Manheim Park Community Garden

This guideline underlines the power that coordinated public, private, non-profit and neighborhood efforts can have. For instance, public investment can serve as a development incentive to revitalize a neighborhood and build an environment that attracts business. This section highlights the fact that coordination of efforts to improve a neighborhood is essential. Improving neighborhood health is a major component in the revitalization of Manheim Park. No recommendations are included in this HIA that directly correspond to this guideline. ALKC believes that this HIA demonstrates how health can and should be integrated into every part of the neighborhood development process. Diverse Housing Options

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This guideline is concerned with quality, efficient, and affordable housing that is responsive to neighborhood character and seeks to meet the needs of all residents. A person cannot lead a healthy, active life without descent housing; therefore housing is intrinsic to health. Furthermore, building material choices can help reduce the incidence of asthma (see Recommendation HIASB-1 under Sustainable Building). There are no recommendations under the Diverse Housing Options guideline in this HIA; however, safe and healthy housing options play a crucial role in health.

Recommendations The following recommendations draw from specific topics in the Performance Guidelines section of the Development Strategy and were created by reviewing feedback from Manheim Park residents who attended the September 8th workshop as well as through fieldwork and other analysis performed by ALKC staff. Sustainable Building HIA-SB-1:

Building materials and more importantly proper ventilation, insulation, and drainage for new construction should help to create a healthy indoor air quality environment to address the high incidence of asthma in Manheim Park.

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association, in collaboration with Green Impact Zone and City staff should push for healthy building practices during review of development projects.

Schedule:

Ongoing, as development projects come up.

Safe and Healthy Living HIA-HL-1:

Work with the developer/future owner of the Bancroft School property to allow for nutrition classes in the old school building in addition to a fitness area for neighborhood use. This recommendation addresses the high incidence of diabetes in Manheim Park by providing resources for healthy eating and active living to residents.

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association should work with Bancroft’s building manager to secure space/equipment. Possible providers of nutrition classes include: Harvester’s Project STRENGTH and MU-Extension. Harvester’s Project STRENGTH is an eight-week course that gives people the knowledge they need to create balanced meals with limited resources. Harvester’s provides the instructor and all necessary equipment and food as well as a bag of groceries for each participant at the end of each class. To contact Harvester’s about getting a class started, fill out the Agency Program

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Application (attached at the back of this HIA) and email it to Kacee Kellum at nutrition@harvesters.org or fax it to 816.929.3151 along with your 501(c)(3) paperwork. Once the application is received, Julie Louk will call to set up a site visit and go over guidelines. Feel free to call the nutrition department at any time if you have questions: 816.929.3034. MU-Extension offers free nutrition education classes to low income families that cover how to plan, purchase, and prepare quick, low cost, healthy and nutritious meals. These classes are offered in community spaces and therefore are convenient to residents. To find out more, contact Eugenia Houston, Nutrition Program Associate by email or phone at houstoneu@missouri.edu or 816.482.5603. Schedule: HIA-HL-2:

Winter 2013, or as soon as a building manager is hired.

Work to establish a regular farmers’ market at Cleaver and Troost or another suitable location that is well known in Manheim Park and other nearby neighborhoods to provide an affordable neighborhood location for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables. Increasing convenient access to fruits and vegetables is one recommended strategy for encouraging people to eat foods that reduce the risk for diet-related diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Strategies such as these serve as steps toward creating an environment that supports healthy eating behaviors.

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association, in collaboration with Green Impact Zone and City staff should work together to organize and publicize the market. There are a few key initial actions that can be taken to start a farmers’ market: 1) Identify a suitable location, preferably on commercially zoned land that will not disturb any neighbors; 2) Schedule the market for a time when there are no competing markets close by; 3) If not selling prepared foods or giving out samples, involving the health department is not necessary; 4) Go to farmers’ markets to recruit farmers. For more information email or call Claude Page with the City Planning and Development Department at claude.page@kcmo.org or 816.513.2890. For written guidance on how to start the process of creating a farmers’ market read AgriMissouri’s Farmer’s Market Handbook (http://agrimissouri.com/pdf/fmhandbook.pdf). Charlie Hopper, Marketing Specialist at the Missouri Department of Agriculture is also a good resource and can be contacted at charlie.hopper@mda.mo.gov or 573.522.4170.

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Schedule: HIA-HL-3:

Winter 2013

Establish additional community garden spaces (one possible space is the vacant lot on the north side of 46th, between Tracy and Virginia). Produce from additional community gardens would provide healthy, nutritious food to Manheim Park residents and encourage healthier eating. Eating a healthy, balanced diet may reduce the risk of diabetes and hypertension.

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association, in collaboration with Green Impact Zone and City staff, and Kansas City Community Gardens (KCCG) should work together to organize and gain neighborhood support for this project. KCCG, located at 6917 Kensington Avenue, in Kansas City, Missouri 64132, has information on its website about starting a community garden: http://www.kccg.org/start-a-garden. KCCG can be contacted through this link: http://www.kccg.org/contact or by calling 816.931.3877 between the hours of 9am-5pm, MondayFriday.

Schedule:

Winter 2013

Cultural Heritage and Neighborhood Fabric HIA-CH-1:

Work with the KCMO Health Department’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program to target Manheim Park, given the elevated levels of blood lead in children compared with the rest of the city. It should be verified that children 6 and under in daycares and schools where Manheim children attend are tested. Properties that are rated substandard, seriously deteriorated, or severely deteriorated by the UMKC Center for Economic Information could also be prioritized (see Appendix X: Green Impact Zone Map 22: Exterior Paint Ratings).

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association in collaboration with Green Impact Zone and KCMO Health Department Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (http://kcmo.org/CKCMO/Depts/Health/ChildhoodLeadPoisoningPr eventionProgram/index.htm) staff should meet and develop a plan to address childhood lead exposure in Manheim.

Schedule:

Winter 2013

Integrated Services and Amenities HIA-IA-1:

Hold a monthly potluck/picnic in a neighborhood park (perhaps Manheim Green Park on 40th between Tracy and Virginia streets). This action promotes neighborhood interaction and a venue for residents to encourage each other to be healthier through active living and healthy eating as well as the use of the 21


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park. This neighborhood outdoor “common space” could thereby serve to promote a range of healthy habits in Manheim Park potentially impacting the high rates of diabetes and hypertension in the community. Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association should recruit residents (and partner neighborhood churches and other groups) interested in organizing this event and help with advertising.

Schedule:

May 2013

Physical Infrastructure HIA-PI-1:

Prioritize vacant/dangerous houses to be torn down while planning for interim (e.g. storm water management and community gardens) and permanent uses for these parcels. For instance, one neighbor pointed to the vacant houses on the west side of Tracy, between 43rd and 44th as well as those on the north side of 44th, between Forest and Tracy as needing to be demolished/deconstructed. Vacant homes not only contribute to depreciated neighborhood property values, but to criminal activity and a less walkable neighborhood. Given that physical inactivity is a risk factor for diabetes and hypertension, this recommendation has implications for community health.

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association should collaborate with Green Impact Zone and City staff to prioritize future demolitions as funds become available. These parties may also wish to work with the land bank, which has recently formed. Prioritizing parcels is one of the first tasks for the Land Bank commissioners. While a land bank coordinator has not yet been hired, David Park, with the Neighborhood and Community Services Department can be contacted at david.park@kcmo.org or 816.513.3231 for more information regarding the land bank.

Schedule: HIA-PI-2:

Winter 2013

Make neighborhood walking path and/or small park connections to Troost on vacant parcels. For example, according to UMKC data, there is a group of five vacant parcels stretching from mid-way between 40th and 41st on the east side of Troost through to Tracy Street. Providing safe and convenient opportunities for walking through the Manheim Park neighborhood (and providing direct connections to transit and other services on Troost) will facilitate active living in the Manheim Park community. Physical inactivity is a risk factor for diabetes and hypertension, both of which are elevated among Manheim Park residents.

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39th

T R O O S T

Green parcels are vacant. The oval surrounds the five parcels described above.

Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association in collaboration with Green Impact Zone and Parks and Recreation Department staff should work on this project. Parcels that would provide direct connections to transit and activity centers should be the primary focus. The most straight forward way for the Neighborhood Association to carry out this recommendation would be to work with the owners of the properties adjacent to the identified vacant parcels to see if they have any interest in owning the vacant land next to their homes and maintaining it for community use. If the answer is yes, the property owners, with the assistance of the Neighborhood Association would contact the newly established Land Bank to transfer the ownership of the vacant land. Another approach would be for the Neighborhood Association to enter into a lease agreement with the Land Bank for the identified vacant parcels and then organize members to do basic maintenance. While the City’s Parks and Recreation Department is not in the practice of acquiring new parkland that is not adjacent to an already existing city park, for either of the scenarios outlined, Parks staff can provide guidance and minimal resources. Contact Travis Kiefer, Assistant Director, at 816.513.7562 or travis.kiefer@kcmo.org for more information.

Schedule:

Winter 2013

Open Space and Public Space HIA-PS-1:

Create additional spaces for children to play in lots that are currently vacant. Workshop participants pointed out that neighborhood children already play on vacant lots. With minimal investment, a couple of lots could be identified to be cleaned up for this purpose. For example, there are two vacant parcels directly to 23


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the west of the multi-unit residential building on the northwest corner of 44th and Paseo that may be good candidates. Another possibility could be the vacant lot on the north side of Manheim Green Park. Providing opportunities for physical activity and play is important as physical inactivity is a main risk factor for diabetes and hypertension, both of which are present in higher rates in Manheim Park. Responsibility:

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association in collaboration with Green Impact Zone and City Parks and Recreation staff should work on this project. Neighborhood residents should discuss which locations are most suitable. Perhaps the Urban Rangers could help with this project over the summer. As with Recommendation HIA-PI-2, the best approaches are for either adjacent property owners to take ownership of the identified parcels or for the Neighborhood Association to enter into a lease agreement for the identified parcels with the Land Bank and maintain them for use by children and other residents. If the neighborhood wants to pursue either of these options, the Parks Department can offer guidance and minimal resources. As stated earlier, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department generally does not acquire new land unless it is adjacent to an existing city park. However, if the Neighborhood Association believes that the vacant parcel directly north of Manheim Green Park would be a good addition to the park, it should contact the Parks Department. The Parks and Recreation Department contact for any of these options is Travis Kiefer, Assistant Director. He can be reached at 816.513.7562 or travis.kiefer@kcmo.org.

Schedule: HIA-PS-2:

Make an action plan for coordinating picking up trash around the neighborhood. Inventory trash cans and assess if trash can placement is optimal. Clean-up events would also provide physical activity opportunities. If streets and/or vacant lots contain a significant quantity of trash, residents will be less likely to be physically active outside in their community. Providing this opportunity for physical activity is important as physical inactivity is a main risk factor for diabetes and hypertension, both of which are present in higher rates in Manheim Park.

Responsibility:

Summer 2013

The Manheim Park Neighborhood Association in collaboration with other neighborhood organizations, the Green Impact Zone

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and City staff should work on this project. A group of interested residents could lead this effort. The City’s Public Works Department, Solid Waste Division has a program called the Neighborhood Cleanup Assistance Program that makes dumpsters available to neighborhood cleanups at a reasonable cost ($60). Follow this link to fill out the form to request a dumpster: http://www.kcmo.org/CKCMO/Depts/PublicWorks/NeighborhoodCl eanupAssistanceProgram/index.htm . To find out more information, call Marleen Leonce at 816.513.2542. If a dumpster is not needed, blue bags are available to neighborhood groups free of charge. Participating organizations should send a letter (on neighborhood letterhead) from the president or delegated person as well as an address for pickup of the filled bags. For more details, call the 311 Call Center by dialing 311 or 816-513-1313. Schedule:

Spring 2013

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