HomeMy WebLinkAboutAttachmt 1 Draft Community Design Element
CITY OF DUBLIN
COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT
Draft
July 2008
Prepared by
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CONSULTING
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ATTACHMENT 1
COMMUNlrv DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
City Council
Janet Lockhart, Mayor
Tim Sbranti, Vice Mayor
Kasie Hildenbrand
Tony Oravetz
Kate Ann Scholz
Planning Commission
Bill Schaub, Chair
Greg Tomlinson, Vice Chair
Donald Biddle
Morgan King
Doreen Wehrenberg
City Staff
Rich Ambrose
Jeri Ram
Mary Jo Wilson
Jeff Baker
July 2008
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
10.1
10.1.1
10.2
10.3
10.3.1
10.3.2
10.4
10.5
10.5.1
10.5.2
10.5.3
10.5.4
10.6
10.6.1
10.6.2
10.6.3
10.6.4
10.7
10.7.1
10.7.2
10.7.3
10.7.3.1
10.7.3.2
10.7.3.3
10.7.3.4
10.7.3.5
10.7.3.6
10.7.4
Overview........... ....................................... ......... ......... .............................. 79
Citywide Design Vision............. .................... ........................................ .......... ...................... 79
Relevant Plans and Policies .................................................................... 80
Unifying Principles of Community Design .............................................. 82
The Image of the City........................................................................................................... 82
The Importance of Streetscapes ............. ............. .......... ............ .......... ............... ................. 82
Organization of the Community Design Element ................................. 83
Positive Regional Identity ......................... ....... .............................. .......... 84
Intent............. ....................................................................................................................... 85
Goal .............................................................................................................................. ........ 85
Policies... ................... ............................... ......... ......................................... .......................... 85
Implementation Measures........................................................................................... ......... 86
Sense of Arrival............. ............................................................ ............... 87
Intent .............................................................................................................................. . ... . . 88
Goal........... ....................................... .......... .......... ............................... .......... ....................... 88
Policies...................................................................................................................... ........... 88
Implementation Measures. ..................................................................... ........... ................... 89
Design of the Built Form .......................................................................... 89
Intent .............................................................................................................................. . .... . 90
Goal.............................................................................................................. .......... .............. 90
Policies... .................................................. .............................. .......... ................................. ... 91
Site and Building Design................................ ...................................................................... 91
Landscaping and Natural Features............................. ........................................ ................. 94
Gathering and Open Space Areas.. ..... .......... ................ ....................... ........................ ....... 96
Signage, Lighting, and Art ................................................... ................................................. 97
Parking and Circulation...................... ................................................... .......... ..................... 98
Villages .............................................................................................................................. ... 98
Implementation Measures. ................... .................................................. .......... ........... ......... 100
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.8 Connections and Linkages ..................................................................... 101
10.8.1 Intent............. .................... ................................................... ... ............................................. 101
10.8.2 Goal.................... ........................................ ............. ....... .............. ................ ....................... 101
10.8.3 Policies.................................................... ............................... ...... ................................... .... 101
10.8.4 Implementation Measures............................................................ ....................................... 103
10.9 Sustainabllity .............................................................. ............................... 103
10.9.1 Intent................................................................ .................................................................... 103
10.9.2 Goal. ........................................................... .................... .............. ................................... .... 103
10.9.3 Policies .. ............................................................ ........................... ....................................... 104
10.9.4 Implementation Measures.................... ....................... ...... ........... .......... ......... .................... 107
LIST OF FIGU RES
10-1 Regional Roadways......................................................... .......... .......................................... 84
10-2 Gateways............................................. .......... ..................... ............................. .................... 87
10-3 Villages........... ........................................ ..................... .......... ....... . .......... ................. ........... 98
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COMMUNlrY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
CHAPTER 10
COMMUNITY DESIGN ELE',^ENT
10.1 Overview
The Community Design Element guides public and private development to create a city that
is diverse, functional, and aesthetically appealing. The Community Design Element contains
goals and policies that provide a framework for community development and guidelines for
new construction and improvements while protecting the City's positive characteristics. These
goals and policies apply to three-dimensional aspects of the built environment in Dublin:
buildings, streets, sidewalks, neighborhoods, plazas, etc. Comrnunity design combines aspects
of architecture, landscape architecture, public works, public art, and transportation systems.
Implementation of these community design policies will create an inviting and attractive city that
will help to unify the City visually and create a distinct sense of place in special areas of the City.
10.1.1 Citywide Design Vision
The following design vision provides a basis for the goals and policies contained in this
Community Design Element:
Dublin is a vibrant, well-designed city with a positive regionaf identity. Regional roadways
promote this positive regional identity through attractive devo/opment, unique landscaping,
and the preservation of views to rolling hillsides and other prominent features. Gateways
welcome residents and visitors alike through signage, distinctive landscaping, and buildings
oriented toward gateway intersections.
Dublin is a city of villages that enhance its suburban character with attractive and integrated
residential neighborhoods, retail centers, and office and industrial areas. Regional transit
hubs are developed with compact development that incorporates a mixture of commercial,
office, and residential uses. Pedestrians, bicyclists, and mororists are provided with a
variety of connections that link various activity centers of the City. Dublin is a leader in
sustainable design and continues to thrive as an attractive a'1d livable city for generations to
come.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.2 Relevant Plans and Polices
Dublin has adopted a number
of plans and policies to guide
development. Some of these pertain
to the entire City, while others have
a specific area of focus. As part of
the City of Dublin General Plan, this
Community Design Element provides
goals, policies, and implementation
measures that address the entire
City. Where goals, policies, and
implementation measures of other
policy documents and plans conflict,
those in the Community Design
Element shall supercede. The
following includes the existing plans
and policies that guide development.
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A. General Plan
The General Plan is the highest-
level policy document for the entire
City, and acts like an "umbrella"
over other documents. State law requires general plans to include the following elements:
land use, circulation, open space, conservation, safety, and housing. These elements may be
combined and additional (optional) elements may be included. All elements of a general plan
are considered equal and all other plans and policies are required by state law to be consistent
with the General Plan. The Community Design Element is an optional element of the Dublin
General Plan.
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B. Downtown Dublin Specific Plan (In Process)
The Downtown Dublin Specific Plan (DDSP) is currently undergoing development and will
provide policy guidance, development standards and design guidelines for downtown Dublin.
Once complete, the DDSP will replace the existing Dublin Downtown Specific Plan, Downtown
Core Specific Plan, San Ramon Road Specific Plan, Village Parkway Specific Plan, and West
Dublin BART Specific Plan.
C. Eastern Dublin Specific Plan
The Eastern Dublin Specific Plan provides policy guidance for existing and future development
generally east of the Iron Horse Trail and Camp Parks Reserve Forces Training Area. New
development in this area requires adoption of Planned Development (PD) zoning, which
includes development regulations, architectural standards, and preliminary landscape plans.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
D. Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan
The Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan applies to future d 3velopment and redevelopment
in the Dublin Village Historic Area. This plan includes design guidelines, historic resource
preservation measures, and implementation actions.
E. Scarlett Court Design Guidelines
The Scarlett Court Design Guidelines apply to the industrial area in and around Scarlett Court.
Design guidelines address site planning, architecture, signage, I;:mdscaping, and lighting.
F. Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies and Standard~i
The Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policy establishes a set of s::enic corridor polices for
designated corridors including Interstate 580, Tassajara Road, a,d Fallon Road, and defines a
review process within these scenic corridors.
G. Streetscape Master Plan
The Streetscape Master Plan addresses landscape planting and street furnishings throughout
Dublin. This document identifies tree species and planting requirements, as well as streetscape
amenities such as streetlights, trash receptacles, benches, bus ~ihelters, monuments, and
signage.
H. Bikeways Master Plan
The Bikeways Master Plan provides goals and policies for the bi :ycle network, supporting
facilities, educational and enforcement programs, and implementation measures that support
bicycle mobility in and through Dublin.
I. Public Art Master Plan
The Public Art Master Plan provides guidelines, policies, and implementation measures for
public art in City projects and private developments.
J. Zoning Ordinance
The Zoning Ordinance provides policies and regulations for the entire City. Topics addressed
include permitted, conditionally permitted, and temporarily permitted uses, development
standards, parking and landscaping regulations, and permit procedures.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.3 Unifying Principles of Community Design
Because of the varied scales at which a community functions, city
planners and designers often utilize a variety of analytical techniques
and methodologies to describe and communicate various community
design principles.
10.3.1 The Image of the City
A commonly used model of urban design comes from theorist and
author Kevin Lynch (The Image of the City, 1960). His overriding idea
was for cities to create a more memorable identity by enhancing the
image of their major elements. He divided the city into the following
functional areas, each of which contributes distinct design potential:
Paths - Paths connect activity areas and can have an important
identity of their own.
Landmarks - Visually prominent buildings, important cultural
centers, or special natural features serve to give a city a distinct
image and are important amenities.
Edges - Boundaries signal one's arrival at a new land use, area, or
feature. If edges are clearly marked, such as in the use of entry signs
or monuments, a city's identity is strengthened.
Nodes - Focal points, intersections, and gathering places create
activity centers that draw people into them and stimulate adjacent
development.
Districts - Special areas of the city have their own visual and
functional identity and help differentiate the visual monotony seen in
many cities today.
10.3.2 The Importance of Streets capes
Streetscapes refer to the visual image created by the buildings,
signs, street furniture, landscaping, spaces and other features along
a street. By unifying the treatment of one or more of these elements,
a streetscape can have a coherent image and one that makes a
strong statement within a city.
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COMMUNIlY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.4 Organization of the Community Design Elem1ent
Lynch's five functional areas have been refined into the followin~1 five goals for Dublin.
1. Promote a Positive Regional Identity of the City (pathsl.
2. Create a Sense of Arrival at gateways to the City (paths, landmarks, edges, nodes).
3. Ensure quality and compatible Design of the Built Form (districts).
4. Establish Connections and Linkages throughout the City (paths).
5. Encourage Sustainability to provide a high quality of life and to preserve resources and
opportunities for future generations (paths, landmarks, edges, nodes, districts).
The Community Design Element provides specific policies and implementation measures for
each of these goals.
Goals
Goals are general and serve as a vision for components of community design.
Policies
Policies divide these goals into more specific categories.
Implementation Measures
Implementation measures are specific tasks needed to achieve .:he policies and goals.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.5 Positive Regional Identity
Historically Dublin has been at the crossroads of major regional routes since early settlement
of the area. These routes have evolved over time from trails to the current alignment of Dublin
Boulevard, San Ramon Road, Interstate 580, and Interstate 680.
Regional roadways are roads of regional significance and are generally defined as roads that
connect Dublin to surrounding communities. Dublin has eight corridors that are considered
regional roadways. These include:
1. Interstate 680
2. Interstate 580 / BART Corridor
3. Dublin Boulevard
4. San Ramon Road
5. Village Parkway
6. Dougherty Road
7. Tassajara Road
8. Fallon Road
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.5.1 Intent
To those traveling through the City, these regional roadways create their overall image of Dublin.
Due to the high numbers of people who pass through the City eclch day and because of their
importance, these regional roadways should be emphasized to create a positive identity and
image for Dublin.
10.5.2 Goal
Promote a Positive Regional Identity of the City.
10.5.3 Policies
A. Design along regional roadways should be distinctive from other streets and reinforce
a positive image of Dublin. Both within the right-of-way and on adjacent private
development utilize featums such as gateway elements, street trees, median planting,
special lighting, separated and ample sidewalks, crosswal~.s, seating, special signs, street
names, landscape, decorative paving patterns, and public 3rt.
B. Maintain views through development to distant vistas and view corridors along regional
roadways, wherever feasible.
C. Incorporate visual screening techniques such as berms, dE!nse and/or fast-growing
landscaping, and fencing where feasible, to ensure that visually challenging features, such
as parking lots, loading docks, storage areas, etc. are visually attractive from regional
roadways.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
D. Provide landscaping and articulated design to soften the visual appearance of existing and
new walls and fences that are adjacent to regional roadways, wherever feasible.
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Attractive landscaping and ample sidewalks along Dublin Boulevard (right) and landscaped median
and distant hill views along Fallon Road (left)
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E. Encourage attractive and high-quality
landscaping along the edge of the
freeways and development surrounding
on- and off-ramps to provide softer
and more attractive views both to and
from the freeways. Landscaping on
private property should compliment the
buildings and overall site design.
10.5.4 Implementation Measures
A. Work with Caltrans to encourage high-
quality design on new freeway projects,
with special consideration for both views
of and from the freeways.
B. Implement the Streetscape Master Plan,
Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies
and Standards, and applicable specific
plans.
C. Review development through the
Planned Development Regulations andl
or the Site Development Review Permit process.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.6 Sense of Arrival
Dublin has several entrances into the City along regional roadways at or near the City limit.
These entrances have been classified as gateways. Gateways may include special signage
and landscaping to highlight transitions into the City, and in some instances are envisioned to
function as nodes at major intersections with special architectural features on adjacent buildings
and/or with public spaces incorporated into the design.
As shown in Figure 10-2, the Community Design Element identifies the following 11 gateways in
Dublin:
1. Dublin Canyon Road at Schaefer Ranch Road
2. San Ramon Road at Dublin Boulevard
3. San Ramon Road at northern entry to City
4. Village Parkway at northern entry to City
5. Dougherty Road at northern entry to City
6. Dougherty Road at Dublin Boulevard
7. Hacienda Drive at Dublin Boulevard
8. Tassajara Road at Dublin Boulevard
9. Tassajara Road at northern entry to City
10. Fallon Road at Dublin Boulevard
11. Dublin Boulevard at eastern entry to City
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Figure 10-2 Gateways
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
Just as regional roadways have an impact on creating a positive regional identity for Dublin,
gateways and entries have an impact on creating inviting entrances and a sense of arrival
into the City.
10.6.1 Intent
The City wants to create inviting entrances at gateways that reflect the character of Dublin and
welcome residents and visitors. These gateways help define the edge of Dublin and will further
create nodes near the City's edge.
10.6.2 Goal
Create a Sense of Arrival at gateways to the City.
10.6.3 Policies
A. Mark gateways with City identification (i.e. signage) and include enhanced landscaping
and street improvements to highlight Dublin's identity, consistent with the City's
Streetscape Master Plan, where feasible.
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City of Dublin monument sign
B. Incorporate dramatic and imaginative
landscaping, public art, water features, or
other design features when reconstructing
streets and/or sidewalks at key gateways
into the City, where feasible.
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Landscaping, public art, and plaza design
of gateway development projects (Dublin
Gateway Medical Center, Dublin)
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
C. Encourage signature building architecture at gateways that are oriented toward the
gateway to create a sense of place.
Signature building architecture oriented toward gateway intersections
10.6.4 Implementation Measures
A. Implement the Streetscape Master Plan.
B. Review development adjacent to gateways through the Planned Development Regulations
and the Site Development Review Permit process.
10.7 Design of the Built Form
Dublin is made up of a variety of villages, residential neighborhoods, and other commercial and
industrial areas, each with their own unique features and development patterns. Each area
functions differently from other areas - largely based on location (i.e. proximity to freeways or
hillsides) and use (i.e. residential or commercial) - but all have common elements that make
them distinct to the City. The design of the built form has a variety of categories which apply to
the following land uses:
Residential
Dublin has of a variety of residential neighborhoods with unique design features and building
types. These neighborhoods are generally developed around a central feature such as a school
or park. Residential neighborhoods in the Primary and Western Extended Planning Areas
consist predominately of established neighborhoods with single-family homes. The residential
neighborhoods in the Eastern Extended Planning Area generally contain higher density
development near Dublin Boulevard and lower density (single-family) development along the
hillsides to the north and east.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
Commercial
Commercial developments range from a single building with a single tenant to multiple buildings
often with multiple tenants (shopping centers) and also consider mixed use developments.
Commercial development in the City generally occurs along arterial roadways and adjacent
to office developments. Shopping centers generally consist of multiple buildings that share
common architecture, landscaping, and/or other design features. Shopping centers generally
are developed with a central parking lot providing shared parking.
Office
Office developments range from a single building with a single tenant to multiple buildings often
with multiple tenants. Office development in the City generally occurs along arterial roadways
and adjacent to commercial developments. Campus office developments consist of multiple
buildings that share common architecture, landscaping, and/or other design features.
Industrial
Industrial uses provide vital resources and services and are an integral part of the City.
Industrial uses are often buffered from more sensitive uses, such as residential, schools, and
parks, to minimize their impacts associated with traffic, noise, and aesthetics.
The following policies apply to these land uses:
10.7.1 Intent
The City wants to design high-quality and compatible areas that reflect the overall character
of Dublin. These areas should also be distinct from one another to avoid monotonous
development patterns.
10.7.2 Goal
Ensure quality and compatible Design of the Built Form.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.7.3 Policies
10.7.3.1 Site and Building Design
A. Encourage high quality, attractive, and architecturally appealing buildings that create
distinctive visual reference points, enrich the appearance of functional gathering spaces,
and convey an excellence in architecture, workmanship, quality, and durability in building
materials.
----"
Architecturally appealing retail buildings with visual reference points and strong articulation
B. Encourage buildings with
massing, heights, articulation
techniques, and architectural
and signage treatments to
create visual interest and
ensure compatibility with
adjacent uses, in commercial,
office, industrial, and mixed
use areas.
c. Ensure that building height,
scale and design are
compatible with the character
of the surrounding natural and
built environment, and are
varied in their massing, scale
and articulation.
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Buildings with articulated facades and varying roof lines
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
D. Encourage a variety of site and building designs that are compatible and consistent with
surrounding development, especially where larger scale development is adjacent to
smaller scale and/or more sensitive land uses (i.e. residential, schools, and churches) to
the greatest extent feasible.
Commercial
Residential
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Building height, scale, and design is compatible with adjacent uses
E. Avoid the use of long continuous straight (building) walls along roadways by designing
appropriate articulation, massing, and architectural features.
F. Create distinctive neighborhoods that exemplify high-quality and varied design while
reinforcing Dublin as one integrated community, in residential areas.
G. Encourage the diversity of garage orientation in residential areas, and diverse setbacks,
architectural styles, building materials, color and rooflines, and other design features, on
all sides of all buildings.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
H. Orient buildings toward major thoroughfares, sidewalks, pedestrian pathways, and
gathering spaces, and incorporate clear and identifiable entries where feasible, in campus
office areas.
I. Group buildings in clusters that are connected through a series of pedestrian pathways
and designed to work with each other to form a unified design character and create larger
functional spaces, in campus office areas.
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Clustered office buildings and parking lots
connected by pedestrian pathways
Pathways
J. Design inviting and attractive office buildings that incorporate modern and contemporary
architectural elements and design features that enrich the appearance of the gathering
places, encourage people to use them, and have attractive appearances from the public
right-of-way, in office areas.
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Office buildings with an attractive, modern architectural style
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.7.3.2 Landscaping and Natural Features
A. Utilize more formal landscaping
treatments in more developed areas
and utilize more natural landscaping
treatments in suburban areas, as
appropriate.
B. Achieve neighborhood identities by
applying streetscape and landscape
design, entry treatments, signage, and
architectural detailing standards, in
residential areas.
c. Incorporate setbacks and landscaped
buffers for development along collector
and arterial roadways to minimize the
impacts from roadway noise, where
appropriate.
Residential entry treatment
Setback and landscaped berm to buffer development along collector/arterial roadways
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
D. Encourage distinctive landscaping and signage that is aesthetically appealing from the
public right-of-way.
E. Encourage semi-transparent fencing and distinctively articulated masonry walls with
landscaping to soften and screen walls are preferred to long stretches of block walls.
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Distinctive landscaping and signage that
is appealing from the public right-of-way in
Dublin
Walls with appropriate
landscaping
F. Increase the width of existing narrow parkway strips when the opportunity arises and
encourage all new development and redevelopment projects to provide appropriately sized
and landscaped parkway strips.
G. Preserve mature trees and vegetation, with special consideration given to the protection of
groups of trees and associated undergrowth and specimen trees.
H. Consider views of creeks, hillsides, skylines, or other landmarks during site planning of
new developments, whenever feasible.
I. Integrate development with natural features and land forms.
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.7.3.3 Gathering and Open Space Areas
A. Encourage gathering spaces and amenities such as mini plazas, courtyards, benches,
seating, shade, trash receptacles, and water fountains, in retail and office areas.
Street
Buildings oriented around a gathering space with landscaping
B. Design attractive gathering spaces with pedestrian amenities such as landscaping,
benches, shade structures, fountains, public art, and attractive lighting.
c. Encourage design treatments that enhance the attractiveness of the streetscape, public
spaces, landscaped areas, and open space.
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Attractive gathering/public spaces
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.7.3.4 Signage, Lighting, and Art
A. Ensure that perimeter areas incorporate
appropriate planting, lighting, and signage.
B. Ensure that signs are constructed of high
quality materials, are compatible with their
surroundings, and make a positive visual
contribution to the character of the community.
Appropriate sign age with a positive visual
contribution
C. Provide signs that are oriented towards
pedestrians, bicyclists and other alternative
modes of transportation, where appropriate.
D. Place and design outdoor lighting around
buildings, in parking lots, and along streets to
prevent excessive glare into residential areas.
E. Incorporate public art where feasible.
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Appropriate planting and signage along
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Public art in commercial
developments in Dublin
July 2008
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.7.3.5 Parking and Circulation
A. Provide convenient but not visually
dominating parking that incorporates
extensive landscaping to provide
shade, promote wayfinding, visually
soften views from the street and
surroundings properties, and reduce
the heat island effect (generally
characterized with large expanses of
paved and underlandscaped surfaces).
B. Buffer and screen large expanses of
parking areas from the street, where
practical.
c.
Encourage the use of shared
circulation and parking with
surrounding properties.
D. Provide attractive and convenient
bicycle parking in retail, office, and
residential areas.
10.7.3.6 Villages
Appropriate parking lot design with extensive
landscaping
Villages are unique areas in Dublin that have distinct identities, include a mix of land uses,
encourage pedestrian activity and can serve as major transit hubs. Figure 10-3 identifies the
locations of each village.
'( .... ...... ...,....:
col.l~..-. I
co 51 ~ .... .. .... 'i \ .. _ .. _:
tll~"'_"-"COl.ltl1" I I
LEGEND C? -." EO'" 1;
_ Dublin Village Historic Area _..- ~L"'''' '" I
_ Downtown Dublin -', 5 ~ R ,_.._..-\..-.. ,,( ........ :_.._.L"_'j
=J Camp Por~s ',_.._..-..-" c;,,,\'
=~::~~~:~:~TOwnCenter " "..-" ~\.. it (~ :,;/:
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1-580 I BART Corridor ( P. N N
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... : City limits
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. Sphere of Influence (Includes City Limits)
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Figure 10-3 Villages
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July 2008
COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
The following policies apply to villages.
A. Encourage compact development that integrates a variety of housing types and densities,
commercial and industrial uses, community facilities, civic, and educational uses with an
emphasis on pedestrian-friendly design.
Easily accessible village node
B. Design village locations to be compatible with the local environment including surrounding
land uses and topography. Village designs should respect constraints, roadways, and
environmental considerations.
C. Provide a mixture of housing types, densities, and affordability in villages that support a
range of age and income groups.
D. Construct easily accessible activity nodes (commercial areas, community facilities,
gathering areas, and public/private facilities).
E. Establish trails, pedestrian pathways, and street linkages to bring the parts and elements
of the village together.
F. Link streets and pedestrian pathways to transportation routes including buses and regional
transit services.
G. Design villages with strong edges to define their boundaries, such as major streets,
signage, architecture, or landscaping.
July 2008
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
H. Encourage village size and development that promotes pedestrian mobility, permits a
sufficient mixture of residential and public/private uses, and convenient commercial areas.
I. Foster a specific identity for each village area addressing special signage, unique design
elements, public spaces, etc.
11--
Representative urban character of a village
10.7.4 Implementation Measures
Design of the built form includes all of the following subcategories as discussed above (Site
and Building Design, Landscaping and Natural Features, Gathering and Open Space Areas,
Signage, Lighting, and Art, Parking and Circulation, and Villages). The following implementation
measures apply to these subcategories:
A. Update the City's sign ordinance.
B. Institute a Design Awards Program to recognize new and remodeled projects of special
quality.
C. Work with development applicants to create development projects to more closely relate to
and reinforce the unique character of Dublin consistent with the intent of this Community
Design Element.
D. Work with PG&E or other appropriate organization to underground new and existing utility
cabinets, overhead wiring, and other related equipment, whenever feasible.
E. Develop design guidelines for light industrial areas that are not within a specific plan or
planned development zoning district and do not have existing design guidelines.
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July 2008
COMMUNI1Y DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
F. Schedule the maintenancE~ and replacement of public improvements, such as pavement
and streetlights, commensurate in quality and appearance to those in more recently
constructed neighborhoods, where feasible, when redevelopment occurs.
G. Create a comprehensive specific plan with design guidelin':ls for the downtown.
H. Implement the Streetscape Master Plan, the Public Art Ordinance, the Eastern Dublin
Scenic Corridor Policies and Standards, and all Specific Plans.
I. Review development using Planned Development Regulations and/or Site Development
Review.
J. Support and maintain the City's industrial land uses as an Important aspect of the
community, in industrial areas.
10.8 Connections and Linkages
Connections and linkages are what unify the villages, residentia neighborhoods, commercial
and industrial areas, and various developments within each nei~lhborhood. Dublin includes a
variety of connections and linkages for pedestrians, bicyclists, a1d motorists. These provide
connections within and between properties and the public right-of-way including streets,
sidewalks, trails, etc. Some connections and linkages have design and landscaping patterns
unique to that corridor, while others have a design and landsca~ ing pattern unique to the type of
connection (i.e. sidewalk or freeway).
10.8.1 Intent
Create connections and linkages throughout the various areas (If Dublin and within and between
properties and the public right-af-way. These connections and linkages should be provided for a
variety of users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists.
10.8.2 Goal
Establish Connections and Linkages throughout the City.
10.8.3 Policies
A. Design roads and pedestrian and bicycle pathways to be "isually appealing connections.
July 2008
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
B. Provide clear, identifiable, and ample pedestrian and bicycle pathways that connect
sidewalks, parking areas, building entrances, trails, and other site features by using
wayfinding techniques such as signage, landscaping, hardscape, and prominent building
entrances, where feasible.
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Tassajara Creek Trail
Attractive pedestrian pathway through
parking lot
C. Encourage developments to provide pedestrian and bicycle pathways that inter-connect
with adjacent land uses and thereby create safe routes of travel to transit facilities, public
gathering spaces, trails, parks, community centers, schools, City villages, gateways, and
entries.
Pedestrian pathway inter-connecting with adjacent land uses
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July 2008
COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
D. Ensure continuous and ample sidewalks
along all roadways.
E. Ensure that sidewalks, pedestrian
and bicycle pathways, and trails are
furnished with appropriate pedestrian
amenities such as lighting, signage, trash
receptacles, etc., where appropriate.
10.8.4 Implementation Measures
A. Implement the Streetscape Master Plan
and the Bikeways Master Plan.
B. Review development through the
Planned Development Regulations and/
or the Site Development Review process.
~.
Meandering pedestrian pathway with pedestrian
bollard lighting
10.9 Sustainability
As the global population continues to grow and natural resources continue to diminish, cities
are implementing a variety of sustainability measures to preserve resources and maintain a
healthy quality of life for future generations. Sustainable development is generally defined as
development that meets the needs of present generations without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet their needs. Dublin has already taken measures to encourage
sustainable development and as time moves on, the City will continue to raise the standards for
quality and sustainable development.
Sustainable development and good community design are key components that can work
together and compliment each other to create livable cities. Sustainable design measures
should play an integral role in all future development and redevelopment efforts within the City.
10.9.1 Intent
The City wants to promote community design that incorporates principles of sustainability and
create a livable community that future generations will be able to enjoy.
10.9.2 Goal
Encourage Sustainability to provide a high quality of life and to preserve resources and
opportunities for future generations.
July 2008
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.9.3 Policies
A. Design sustainable measures to be an
integrated and attractive element of
community design.
B. Promote sustainable communities
as good places to live, and that offer
social, environmental, and economic
opportunities for the people of Dublin.
C.
Consider environmentally sensitive
and energy-efficient building siting,
which minimize impacts from wind,
provides shade, reduces stormwater
runoff, and maximizes opportunities for
passive solar design, where feasible.
D. Encourage transit-oriented development
adjacent to BART stations and major
arterials.
E. Promote walking and bicycling through
site and building design.
F.
Encourage alternative modes of
transportation by providing priority
parking for carpool and alternative
energy vehicles, bicycle racks/lockers,
showers for employees, and easy
access to adjacent regional trails and
transit stops.
G. Protect the biodiversity of the natural
environment.
H. Encourage the use of native and/
or drought tolerant plant species,
hydrozoning (locating species
according to water needs), xeriscaping
(landscaping that does not require
supplemental irrigation), drip irrigation
systems that use recycled water and
moisture sensors, and pesticide free
landscaping.
Roof with solar panel roof tiles that incorporates
sustainability and attractive design
Residential buildings incorporating solar
collectors on roofs
.f!!)
Parking stall with electric vehicle service
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July 2008
COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
I. Design water features to minimize water loss.
J. Incorporate measures to minimize the impacts of nighttime lighting on adjacent properties
and nighttime glare.
Commercial
Residential
Downward lighting design to minimize effect on adjacent
uses and reduce night sky lighting
K. Encourage development features that
minimize the use of non-renewable energy
consumption (i.e. material reuse, natural
lighting and ventilation, etc.).
L. Encourage public art projects that utilize a
variety of materials including sustainable and/
or renewable products.
M. Encourage the renovation and reuse of
existing buildings.
N. Design and construct buildings and
development for longevity and potential
reuse.
o. Incorporate recycling and green waste/
composting facilities into the design of sites
and integrate into buildings where feasible.
Conveniently located recycling and green
waste facilities
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COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
P. Encourage the use of roof
gardens to collect storm water
and reduce heat island effect.
Q. Design prominent buildings to
demonstrate environmental
awareness.
R. Design landscaping to create
comfortable microclimates,
provide shade to buildings,
and reduce the heat island
effect (generally caused by
large expanses of paved and
unlandscaped areas).
s. Incorporate features to reduce the impact of development such as bioretention, permeable
pavement, etc. that use natural and engineered infiltration and storage techniques to
control storm water runoff, where feasible.
T. Encourage development of underutilized lots.
Parking lots with bioswales (bioretention) Landscaping that creates a comfortable
microclimate for pedestrians
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COMMUNlrv DESIGN ELEMENT I CITY OF DUBLIN
10.9.4 Implementation Measures
A. Facilitate environmental and energy-efficient design guidelines that promote good design
for new construction.
B. Consider adopting an ordinance to minimize the adverse i 11 pacts of nighttime lighting and
glare, and meet security standards.
C. Encourage development that incorporates measures from the U.S. Green Building
Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED ) or other similar
sustainable design programs.
D. Develop and implement a mandatory green building self-certification program as part of
the Building Permit process.
E. Develop a program to encourage the installation of attractive solar panels.
F. Develop a program to add trees to existing surface parkin!~ lots.
G. Review the existing Landscape and Fencing Regulations 10 determine if appropriate to
include additional sustainable landscape standards and parking lot shade requirements.
H. Investigate modifications to the Building Code to require integrated, comprehensive, and
well designed sustainable building practices (i.e. water and energy efficiency, resource
allocations, and site planning).
J. Implement the Bikeways Master Plan and the Public Art Ordinance.
K. Review development through the Planned Development Fegulations and/or Site
Development Review proGess.
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Page 107