HomeMy WebLinkAbout8.3, Attch 4 Proposed Element AmendmentsPROPOSED CHAPTER 10 - strikethrough and underline format
CHAPTER 10
COMMUNITY DESIGN & SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT
10.1 Overview
The Community Design and Sustainability Element guides public and private development to
create a city that is diverse, functional, and aesthetically appealing. The Community Design and
Sustainability 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.
Community 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 the basis for the goals and policies contained in this
Community Design and Sustainability Element:
Dublin is a vibrant, well-designed city with a positive regional identity. Regional corridors
promote this positive regional identity through attractive development, unique landscaping,
and 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 motorists 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 and livable city for generations to
come.
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 and Sustainability 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
ATTACHMENT 4
Design and Sustainability Element shall supercede. The following includes the existing plans
and policies that guide development in Dublin.
A. City of Dublin 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, noise, 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 and Sustainability Element is
an optional element of the Dublin General Plan.
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.
D. Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan
The Dublin Village Historic Area Specific Plan applies to future development 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, landscaping, and lighting.
F. Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies and Standards
The Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policy establishes a set of scenic corridor polices for
designated corridors including Interstate 580, Tassajara Road, and 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 shelters, monuments, and
signage.
H. Bikeways Master Plan
The Bikeways Master Plan provides goals and policies for the bicycle network, supporting
facilities, educational and enforcement programs, and implementation measures that support
bicycle mobility in and through Dublin.
1. 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, permit procedures, and sign regulations.
K. Heritage Tree Ordinance
The Heritage Tree Ordinance provides regulations controlling the removal of and the
preservation of heritage trees within the City. In establishing these regulations, it is the City's
intent to preserve as many heritage trees as possible.
L. Parks and Recreation Master Plan
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan establishes goals, long-term policies, and standards to
guide the City in the acquisition, development, and management of Dublin's Park and
Recreation facilities for the next 20 years.
10.3 Unifiying 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.
Lynch's five functional areas have been refined into the following five goals for Dublin.
1. Promote a Positive Regional Identity of the City.
2. Create a Sense of Arrival at gateways to the City.
3. Ensure quality and compatible Design of the Built Form.
4. Establish Sustainable Neighborhood Design patterns with Connections and
Linkages throughout the City.
5. Encourage Sustainability to provide a high quality of life and to preserve resources and
opportunities for future generations.
10.3.2 The Importance of Streetscapes
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.
10.4 Organization of the Community Design and Sustainabiiity Elemen#
This Community Design and Sustainability Element is organized according to the following three
hierarchal elements:
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 the policies and goals.
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 corridors are routes of regional significance and are generally defined as routes that
connect Dublin to surrounding communities. Dublin has 12 features (including roadways, trails,
and public transportation) that are considered regional corridors (see Figure 10-1 ). These
include:
1. Interstate 680
2. Interstate 580 /BART Corridor
3. Dublin Boulevard
4. San Ramon Road
5. Village Parkway
6. Dougherty Road
7. Hacienda Drive
8. Tassajara Road
9. Fallon Road
10. Iron Horse Trail
10.5.1 Intent
To those traveling through the City, these regional corridors create their overall image of Dublin.
Due to the high number of people who pass through the City each day and because of their
importance, these regional corridors 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. Incorporate distinctive design features along regional corridors that reinforce a positive
image of Dublin. Both within the right-of-way and on adjacent private development, utilize
features such as gateway elements, street trees, median planting, special lighting,
separated and ample sidewalks, crosswalks, seating, special signs, street names,
landscape, decorative paving patterns, and public art. Consider undergrounding utilities
along these roadways (reference: Streetscape Master Plan).
B. Maintain views through development to distant vistas (i.e. foothills) and view corridors
along regional corridors, wherever feasible (reference: East Dublin Scenic Corridor
Policies and Standards).
C. Incorporate visual screening techniques such as berms, dense and/orfast-growing
landscaping, and appropriately designed fencing where feasible, to ensure that visually
challenging features, such as parking lots, loading docks, storage areas, etc. are visually
attractive as seen from regional corridors.
D. Provide landscaping and articulated design to soften the visual appearance of existing and
new walls and fences that are adjacent to regional corridors, wherever feasible (reference:
Sreetscape Master Plan).
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 and/or the Site
Development Review Permit process.
D. Work with BART to encourage high-quality design on new and redeveloped projects near
BART stations.
E. Work with the East Bay Regional Park District to encourage high-quality design and strong
connections on new and redeveloped projects adjacent to the Iron Horse Trail and trail-
heads.
10.6 Sense ofi Arrival
Dublin has several entrances into the City along regional corridors 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 and Sustainability Element identifies the
following 14 Dublin gateways:
1. Schaefer Ranch Road at Dublin Boulevard
2. San Ramon Road at Dublin Boulevard
3. West Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station
4. I-680 Southbound off ramp
5. San Ramon Road at northern entry to City
6. Village Parkway at northern entry to City
7. Dougherty Road at northern entry to City
8. Dougherty Road at Dublin Boulevard
9. East Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station
10. Hacienda Drive at Dublin Boulevard
11. Tassajara Road at Dublin Boulevard
12. Tassajara Road at northern entry to City
13. Fallon Road at Dublin Boulevard
14. Dublin Boulevard at eastern entry to City
Just as regional corridors 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 (reference: Streetscape Master Plan).
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 (reference: Public Art Master Plan).
C. Encourage signature building architecture at gateways that are oriented toward the
gateway to create a sense of place.
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 (including Site
and Building Design, Landscaping and Natural Features, Gathering and Open Space Areas,
Signage, Lighting, and Art, Parking and Circulation, and Villages) which apply to the following
land uses:
Residential
Dublin has a variety of single and multi-family 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.
Commercial
Commercial developments (i.e. General Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial, Retail/Office
Mixed-Use, etc.) 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 (i.e. Office, Campus Office, etc.) 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 (i.e. Industrial Park, Business Park/Industrial, etc.) 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 the land uses described above:
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.
10.7.3 Policies
10.7.3.1 Site and Building Design
A. Encourage diverse, 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.
B. Encourage buildings with varied 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.
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.
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 and setbacks, architectural styles, building
materials, color and rooflines, and other design features, on all sides of all buildings, in
residential areas.
H. Orient buildings toward major thoroughfares, sidewalks, pedestrian pathways, and
gathering spaces, and incorporate clear and identifiable entries where feasible, in campus
office areas.
Cluster and connect buildings through a series of pedestrian pathways designed to work
with each other to form a unified design character and create larger functional spaces, in
campus office and commercial areas.
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.
K. Minimize the visual impacts of service/loading areas, storage areas, trash enclosures, and
ground mounted mechanical equipment. When feasible, these elements should be
located behind or to the sides of buildings and screened from views through a combination
of walls/fencing, and/or landscaping.
L. Minimize the visual impacts of roof mounted mechanical equipment. When feasible, such.
elements should be consolidated and housed in architecturally articulated enclosures.
10.7.3.2 Landscaping and Natural Features
A. Utilize more formal landscaping treatments in more densely developed (urban) areas and
utilize more natural landscaping treatments in less dense (suburban) areas, as
appropriate.
B. Achieve neighborhood identities by applying streetscape and landscape design, entry
treatments, signage, and architectural detailing standards, in residential areas (reference:
Sreetscape Master Plan).
C. Incorporate setbacks and landscaped buffers for development along collector and arterial
roadways to minimize the impacts from roadway noise, where appropriate.
D. Ensure that landscaping along and adjacent to the public realm is well maintained and
retains a natural appearance.
E. Encourage distinctive landscaping and signage that is aesthetically appealing from the
public realm (reference: streetscape Master Plan).
F. Encourage the use of landscaping on walls to soften and screen their visual appearance
(reference: streetscape Master Plan).
G. Increase the width of existing narrow parkway strips when the opportunity arises and
encourage all new development and redevelopment projects to provide appropriately sized
landscaped parkway strips (reference: streetscape Master Plan).
H. Preserve mature trees and vegetation, with special consideration given to the protection of
groups of trees and associated undergrowth and specimen trees (reference: Heritage Tree
Ordinance).
Preserve views of creeks, hillsides, skylines, or other natural or man-made landmarks
during site planning of new developments, whenever feasible.
J. Integrate development with natural features and land forms.
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 commercial and office areas.
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.
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.
(For freeway signs, see also Policy F in Section 10.5.3.)
C. Provide signs that are oriented towards pedestrians, bicyclists and other alternative modes
of transportation, where appropriate.
D. Incorporate public art where feasible (reference: Public Art Master Plan).
E. Design and locate outdoor lighting around buildings, in parking lots, and along streets that
minimize the effects of glare on adjacent properties, particularly in residential areas.
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 surrounding properties, and reduce the heat island effect (generally characterized with
large expanses of paved and under-landscaped surfaces).
B. Buffer and screen large expanses of parking areas from the street, where practical.
C. Encourage the use of integrated circulation and parking facilities that are shared among
surrounding properties.
D. Provide attractive and convenient bicycle parking (reference: Bikeways Master Plan).
10.7.3.6 Villages
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 10-5 identifies the
locations of each Village.
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.
B. Design Village locations to be compatible with the local environment including surrounding
land uses and topography. Village designs should respect constraints, such as 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. Incorporate trails, pedestrian pathways, and street linkages to better unify the parts and
elements of each Village.
F. Design streets and pedestrian pathways that are linked 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.
H. Encourage Village size and development that promotes pedestrian mobility, permits a
sufficient mixture of residential and public/private uses, and convenient commercial areas.
Foster a specific identity for each Village by applying special signage, unique design
elements, public spaces, etc.
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 projects that more closely relate to and
reinforce the unique character of Dublin consistent with the intent of this Community
Design and Sustainability Element.
D. Work with PG&E or other appropriate organizations 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 that do not have existing design guidelines.
F. Periodically update the Streetscape Master Plan.
G. 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, when redevelopment occurs and where feasible.
H. Create a comprehensive Specific Plan with design guidelines for the downtown.
Implement the Streetscape Master Plan, the Public Art Ordinance, Heritage Tree
Ordinance, the Eastern Dublin Scenic Corridor Policies and Standards, and all Specific
Plans.
J. Review development using Planned Development Regulations and/or Site Development
Review.
K. Support and maintain the City's industrial land uses as an important aspect of the
community, in industrial areas.
L. Create a Specific Plan to guide development of the Camp Parks Exchange areas
consistent with the Village policies.
10.8 Encouraging Sustainable Neighborhood Design and Creating
Connections and Linkages
Connections and linkages are what unify the villages, residential neighborhoods, commercial
and industrial areas, and various developments within each neighborhood. Dublin includes a
variety of connections and linkages for pedestrians, bicyclists, and 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 landscaping pattern unique to the type of
connection (i.e. sidewalk or freeway).
How a village district or neighborhood is laid out can have a big impact on whether the area is
comfortable for pedestrians and cyclists and it can be a determinant of how much time people
spend outdoors and how they choose to circulate around the area. New development in Dublin:
Includes neighborhoods with a robust network of internal streets and good connections
to surrounding neighborhoods where pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers can move
efficiently and safely.
Promotes walking and cycling by providing safe, appealing, and comfortable street
environments that support public health by reducing pedestrian injuries and encouraging
daily physical activity.
Aids in the improvement of reside_nt's physical and mental. health and social capital by
providing a variety of open spaces (public and private} close to work and home to
facilitate neighborhood connectivity social networking civic engagement, physical
activity and time spent outdoors.
Compliance with Section 10 8 (Encouraging Sustainable Neighborhood Design and Creating
Connections and Linkages) is required only for the following types of projects:
• New General Pian and Specific Plan Amendments and new Specific Plans
• Annexations;
• New Stage 1 and/or Stage 2 Planned Development Rezones
• Rezoning_applications; and
• Any subdivision of property or other new development that creates new streets (without
changing the applicable land use designation) must comply only with those goals,
policies and implementation measures contained in Sections 10.8.1 through 10.8.4
(Street Patterns and Design), inclusive.
14.8.1 Intent: Street Patterns and Design
Create connections and linkages throughout the various areas of Dublin and within and between
properties and the public right-of-way. These connections and linkages should be provided for
a variety of users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists and should
ensure safe and easy travel between key destinations including residential, civic/public, and
commercial spaces.
10.8.2 Goal: Street Patterns and Design
Establish Connections and Linkages throughout the City by promoting transportation
efficiency, reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) enabling easier non-vehicular circulation and
promoting walking and cycling.
10.8,3 Policies: Street Patterns and Design
A.
. ~ .Provide safe,
visually pleasing and comfortable pedestrian and bicycle connections between
destinations within a project area by providing wide multi-use paths generous sidewalks,
and dedicated bicycle lanes on Class I and II Collector and Arterial streets.
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 (reference: Bikeways Master Pian).
C. Provide a continuous and ample network of pedestrian and bicycle routes within a project
area and logical connections to the exterior of the project area~r}se~ra~~-deve4c~~er~t-s-te
and
thereby create safe routes of travel to transit facilities, public gathering spaces, trails,
parks, community centers, schools, City villages, gateways, and entries (reference:
Bikeways Master Plan).
D. e°t~pe
n~~of~r ot.,n~. Provide connections through closed streets (e.q. cul-de-sacs} within a
neighborhood for pedestrian and bicycle access.
E. Ensure that sidewalks, pedestrian and bicycle pathways, and trails are furnished with
aepr~a-te-pedestrian amenities such as lighting, signage, trash receptacles, etc., where
appropriate (reference: Streetscape Master Plan, Bikeways Master Plan).
F. Provide increased connectivity to the nearest BART station for pedestrians and cyclists
travelling to the station from development projects located within one-half mile of the
station-
10.8.4 Implementation Measures: Street Patterns and Design
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 far measures that achieve the above goals and policies.
C Review new street design and layout for conformance with the following street standards
(unless alternative design methods are proposed that will achieve the above "Street
Patterns and Design" goals and policies):
1. No closed cul-de-sacs. New residential cul-de-sacs should_ha_ve_cut-throughs at
the end that are accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. The cul-de-sac can open to
another cul-de-sac another street or a park trail or open space area. All cut-throughs
should ensure compliance with "Community Policing Through Environmental Design
(OPTED)" principles and accessibility for public safety vehicles.
2. New residential collector streets should have a minimum 5' wide sidewalk or
multi-use path 4' parkway strip with street trees at intervals averaging no more than 40
feet and a bike lane that is separate from on-street parking and travel lanes.
3. New non-residential Class I and Class !I collector streets should have a minimum
8' wide sidewalk or multi-use path 4' parkwaystrip with street trees at intervals averaging
no more than 40 feet a bike lane that is separate from on-street parking and travel lanes,
and a raised median.
4. New arterial streets should have a minimum 10' wide sidewalk or multi-use path,
generous parkway strip with street trees at intervals averaging no more than 40 feet, a
bike lane that is separate from on-street parkinq_and travel lanes, and a raised median.
5. All streets at the perimeter of a school site should have a minimum 10' wide
sidewalk or multi-use path 4' parkway strip with street trees at intervals averaging no
more than 40 feet and a bike lane that is separate from on-street parking and travel lanes,
regardless of the street tyke.
6. In areas of residential development, intersections should occur every 600' on
average and at 800' maximum. Non-vehicular intersections (e.g. separated pedestrian/
bicycle paths or trails) may count towards fulfilling these average and maximum
requirements.
D. A pedestrian and bicycle accessibility plan shall be created for new neighborhoods. The
plan should illustrate the continuous pedestrian and bicycle connections throughout the
proiect site highlighting the connections to school sites, public spaces, and civic/semi-
pubic uses in particular.
E. Allow for bus turnout lanes at new school sites to encourage the use of public transit.
GF. Create a transportation network map.
10.8.5 Intent: Land Use Patterns and Design
Create neighborhoods with generous open spaces (both public and private} located close to the
places people live and work. Create opportunities for residents to live near transit by
establishing a minimum standard of residential density for sites in close proximity to BART
10.8.6 Goal: Land Use Patterns and Design
Provide a variety ofi open spaces close to residences and businesses and improve access to
transit
10.8.7 Policies: Land Use Patterns and Design
A. Locate open spaces in close proximity to residents and businesses.
B. Establish a minimum density requirement for residential development in the vicinity of a
regional transit station (e.q. BART).
C. Establish supportive facilities for a regional transit station (e.g. BART) in large residential
neighborhoods to facilitate pedestrian and cyclist access to transit.
10.8.9 Implementation Measures: Land Use Patterns and Design
A Review new neighborhood design and layout for conformance with the following standards
(unless alternative design methods are proposed that will achieve the above "Land Use
Patterns and Design" goals and policies):
1 Design neighborhoods so that a park civic semi-public or publicly-accessible
passive-use space at least 'h acre in size lies within a'/4 mile walk distance of 75% of
Manned and existing residences and commercial businesses. The space can be either a
public park {in compliance with the Parks and Recreation Master Plan) or privately-owned,
as long as it is accessible to the general public.
2 Design neighborhoods so that a park civic semi-public or publicly-accessible
recreational facility at least one acre in size with either indoor or outdoor recreational
amenities lies within a %2-mile walk distance of 75% of planned and existing residences
and commercial businesses. Recreational facilities must include some physical
improvements and may include "tot lots "swimming pools, sports fields, community
buildings or recreation centers or can be any public park. The recreational facility can be
either a public park (if it is in compliance with the Parks and Recreation Master Plan) or
privately-owned as long as it is accessible to the general public. It can be a facility that
charges a fee for use.
B For all residential uses within'/4 mile of a BART station 25 units per net acre is the
minimum density goal and far all residential uses within %2 mile of a BART station, 10 units
per net acre is the minimum density goal Higher densities within '/2 mile of a regional
transit station are encouraged.
C Identify a "Transit Hub" in any new neighborhood that has 500+ residential units and is
located more than one mile from a regional transit station. A Transit Hub would be a
central location in the protect where pedestrian trails bike lanes and streets converge at a
central transit stop If bus service is to be provided to the project area, the Transit Hub
would be the location to put the bus stop bicycle parking and bus shelter. There is no
minimum size for a Transit Hub and its ideal location is adjacent to an open space, park,
or public/civic facility..
10.8.10 Intent: Access to Schools
Create neighborhoods that benefit from well-located and easily-accessible school sites by
locating schools on safe yet connected thoroughfares and by .minimizing the distance from
school sites for the maximum number of likely students (e.g. adjacent to attached and detached
single family homes)
10.8.11 Goal: Access to Schools
Integrate schools safely and effectively into the neighborhood street and land use pattern.
10.8.12 Policies: Access to Schools
A New school sites shall be chosen for maximum safety and accessibility for students.
10.8.13 Implementation Measures: Access to Schools
A School sites shall be located and designed for accessibility to the maximum number of
likely students Although frontage on two streets is needed school sites are ideally not
located at the intersection of two Class I collector streets and the site must be designed
and located so that pedestrians and cyclists can easily reach the site via safe bike lanes,
multi-use paths, and sidewalks.
B Design a neighborhood such that at least 50% of any attached and detached single-family
residential units are within a %2 mile walking distance of any new elementary or middle
school site on the project site.
C For protects that do not involve the creation of a new school site, locate attached and
detached single-family residential units in areas within the protect that facilitates the most
direct walking route to existing school site(s). Streets within and/or bordering the project
area that lead from new dwelling units to an existing school site (or dedicated future school
site) should be designed to have a complete network of multi-use paths or sidewalks on at
least one side and either bicycle lanes or traffic control and/or calming measures.
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 complement each other to create livable cities. Sustainable design measures
should play an integral role in all future development and redevelopment efforts within the City.
14,9.1 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.
14.9.2 Goal
Encourage sustainability to provide a high quality of life and to preserve resources and
opportunities for future generations.
14.9.3 Policies
A. Design sustainable measures to be an integrated and attractive element of community
design.
B. Promote sustainable communities as good places to live 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.
Design water features to minimize water loss.
Incorporate measures to minimize the effects of night sky lighting by encouraging the use
of downward facing light fixtures.
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 (Reference: Public Art Master Plan).
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 containers into the design of sites and integrate into
buildings where feasible.
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.
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 impacts 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 parking lots.
G. Review the existing Landscape and Fencing Regulations to 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 Regulations and/or Site
Development Review process.