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PC Reso 20-15 Adopt Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and Amend Dubllin Streetscape Master Plan PLPA-2017-00012
1 RESOLUTION NO. xx - 20 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN * * * * * * * * * ADOPTING THE DOWNTOWN DUBLIN STREETSCAPE PLAN AND AMENDING THE CITY OF DUBLIN STREETSCAPE MASTER PLAN PLPA-2017-00012 WHEREAS, in 2005, the City adopted the City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan to guide the continuation of good streetscape design in the public right of way throughout the City, including the downtown; and WHEREAS, in 2011, the City adopted the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan to guide and encourage reinvestment in the Downtown and create a vibrant and dynamic commercial and mixed‐use center; and WHEREAS, as part of the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, a Community Benefit Program was established to ensure that developers provide a benefit to the Downtown in exchange for receiving a higher density on their property; and WHEREAS, the proposed Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan will focus on the Downtown area and will guide future public and private investment in a unified streetscape and a branding/identity program that strengthens the identity of the Downtown. The improvements identified in the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan would serve as a list of projects that could be used as part of the Community Benefit Program as well as future City projects ; and WHEREAS, in November 2019, the City Council approved the Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision and the proposed Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan supports implementation of the Preferred Vision through inclusion of the Town Square and new street grid network; and WHEREAS, the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amendments to the Streetscape Master Plan are exempt from in the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), which exempts projects where it can be seen with certainty that there is no potential for significant environmental effects. The Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan does not approve any development project or other physical activity; nor does it change any land use or density designations that would affect development potential. Instead it provides guidelines and standards through which streetscape improvements would be implemented. Therefore, the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan itself has no potential for resulting in significant physical change in the environment, directly or ultimately. Any future improvements would be reviewed for compliance with CEQA; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public meeting on the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amendments to the Streetscape Master Plan on October 13, 2020, at which time all interested parties had the opportunity to be heard; and WHEREAS, on October 13, 2020, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 20- xx recommending that the City Council adopt the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amend the Streetscape Master Plan, which Resolution is incorporated herein by reference; and 2 WHEREAS, a Staff Report, dated ______, and incorporated herein by reference, described and analyzed the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amendments to the Streetscape Master Plan for the City Council; and WHEREAS, the City Council held a public meeting on the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amendments to the Streetscape Master Plan on _______, at which time all interested parties had the opportunity to be heard; and WHEREAS, the City Council considered all above-referenced reports, recommendations, and testimony to evaluate the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amendments to the Streetscape Master Plan. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and made a part of this resolution. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council finds that the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan and amendments to the Streetscape Master Plan, as set forth below, are in the public interest will promote general health, safety and welfare, and consistent with the General Plan and Downtown Dublin Specific Plan. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council hereby adopts the Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan as set forth in Exhibit A. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council hereby amends the Streetscape Master Plan as set forth in Exhibit B. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this _____ day of _____, 2020 by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ______________________________ Mayor ATTEST: ______________________________ City Clerk 3596493.1 DOWNTOWN DUBLIN STREETSCAPE PLAN October 2020 Prepared for the City of Dublin, California DOWNTOWN DUBLIN STREETSCAPE PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 2 3 4 Executive Summary 5 Introduction 6 Implementation 8 Existing Conditions 20 Urban Context 21 Overall Streetscape Conditions 22 Existing Conditions on Regional and Village Parkway 23 Opportunities and Constraints 29 Street Plans 30 Expanding the Pedestrian Realm 31 Street Plan Guidelines 31 Regional Street and Village Parkway Alternatives 35 Identity and Elements 44 Identity 45 Signage + Wayfinding 46 Art 48 Paving 50 Street Furnishings 51 Street Lighting 53 Street Trees …………………………………………………………………… 54 The Core Streets Guidelines 43 DOWNTOWN DUBLIN STREETSCAPE PLAN APPENDIX Planning and Community Process 58 Stakeholder Outreach and Community Workshops 59 5 6 7 Technical Information 60 Street Trees and Understory Planting 61 Green Infrastructure 74 Utilities 76 Magnitude of Costs 78 DOWNTOWN DUBLIN STREETSCAPE PLAN LIST OF FIGURES Downtown Planning Area as defined by the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan 7 Street Framework Plan 9 Tier 1 and 2 Pedestrian Enhancements 15 Tier 1 and 2 Identity, Art, and Wayfinding Locations 16 Regional Street Existing Section 25 Village Parkway Existing Section 27 Sidewalk Layout 29 Enlarged Plan of Typical Improvements 32 Regional Street Section 35 Regional Street Plan 3 7 Village Parkway Section 40 Village Parkway Plan 4 1 Proposed Tree Species by Street 64 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 1.2 Introduction 6 Implementation 8 I I Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 1.1 INTRODUCTION 1.1.1 Background The City of Dublin City Council, City Staff and members of the Dublin community have been actively engaged in expanding the City’s efforts to create a cohesive, unique, and walkable destination Downtown. A number of planning documents focus on and guide the redevelopment and reinvestment in the Downtown area as shown in Figure 1. These include: 1. Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, 2011 (amended in 2020) 5. Streetscape Master Plan, 2005 (amended in 2009) 2. ULI Technical Assistance Panel study, 2011 6. Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, 2014 3. ULI Technical Assistance Panel study, 2018 7. Public Art Master Plan, 2020 4. Dublin General Plan, 1985 (amended in 2017) 8. Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision, 2019 The Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan (the Plan) expands upon the recommendations contained in these documents in more detail as they relate to the streetscape – improving the beauty, identity, and function of Downtown streets. The Plan provides further direction for public and private investment, specifically in regard to the development of the public realm and Downtown’s identity, with the intent of creating a clear and unified look and feel for Downtown Dublin. 1.1.2 Vision and Purpose Improved Downtown Dublin streets will enhance the identity of Downtown Dublin as a destination, improve the street experience for pedestrians, and create enjoyable places for people that support community through participation in public life in shared space. Creating inviting and attractive places will support Dublin’s desirability and will support community life as land uses change and properties are re-developed with new commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects. City of Dublin CITY OF DUBLIN Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan DOWNTOWN DUBLIN SPECIFIC PLAN STREETSCAPE MASTER PLAN City of Dublin c a l i f o r n i a July 2020 Prepared by the City of Dublin with assistance from consultants in landscape architecture Royston Hanamoto Alley and Abey (RHAA) Adopted by the City Council on June 7, 2005 GENERAL PLAN Community Development Department 100 Civic Plaza Dublin, CA 94568 Adopted February 11, 1985 (Amended as of November 21, 2017) Adopted 2/1/2011, City Council Resolutions 08-11 and 09-11 Amended 5/6/2014, City Council Resolutions 49-14 and 50-14 Amended 10/7/2014, City Council Resolution 170-14 Amended 12/3/2019, City Council Resolution 126-19 Amended 7/21/2020, City Council Resolution 79-20 Prepared by: Prepared for the: Resolution Number 90-05 100 Pringle Avenue, Suite 600 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Adopted by the City Council on October 7, 2014 Amended through November 3, 2009 City of Dublin Planning documents 6 TECHNICAL ASSIS TANCE P ANEL Dublin, California April 17–18, 2018 ©2018 by the Urban Land Institute. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of the whole or any part of the contents of this publication without written permission of the copyright holder is prohibited. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Figure 1: Downtown Planning Area as defined by the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan Legend Retail District Transit-oriented District Village Parkway District Planning Area Boundary n 0 250’ 500’ 1,000’ 7 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 1.1.3 The Plan This document describes potential opportunities and proposed improvements from a variety of perspectives, scales and areas of focus. The Executive Summary describes an overall Street Framework (1.2.1) that organizes and focuses improvement opportunities by street type. Project Implementation Opportunities (1.2.3) provides a list of improvements based on scale, scope and effort, and identifies high- impact, high-priority improvements. In addition to providing urban context, the Existing Conditions (2.0) chapter describes the quality of existing street spaces and elements and provides general opportunities and constraints that inform proposed improvements. Chapter 3 and 4 present opportunities to enhance the identity and visual character of Downtown Dublin as well as the spatial qualities of Downtown streets so that they function better for all, including, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit riders. The Street Plans (3.0) Chapter presents guidelines for expanding the pedestrian realm for people and include street-specific concept plans for improvements to Regional Street and Village Parkway. The Identity and Elements (4.0) Chapter presents guidelines for the overall look, feel, and “brand” that create the visual image of Downtown Dublin’s public realm, illustrates proposed unique elements for Downtown Dublin, and describes standard streetscape materials and furnishings. Lastly, the Appendix section provides a recap of the Planning and Community Process (5.0) and supplemental information to guide decision makers, planners, designers, and developers as they contemplate and implement individual projects. Technical Information (6.0) provides further detail on planting standards, green infrastructure, and utility coordination, while Magnitude of Costs (7.0) provides order of magnitude construction costs for various improvements. 1.2 IMPLEMENTATION 1.2.1 Street Framework The streets of Downtown Dublin can be characterized by the roles they serve related to the transportation system and to the land uses adjacent to the streets. Informed by the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, this Plan characterizes Downtown streets into four primary types: Crosstown Boulevards + Parkways, Commercial Throughways, Downtown Local and The Core Streets as shown in Figure 2. This framework informs the types of street improvements which are most relevant, and which should be prioritized for each Downtown street. 8 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Figure 2: Street Framework Plan n 0 250’ 500’ 1,000’ 9 Legend Crosstown Boulevards + Parkways Commercial Throughways Downtown Local The Core Future Downtown Local (Public + Private) Crosstown Boulevards + Parkways These streets carry large volumes of traffic along significant north-south and east-west corridors. Typically, these streets carry multiple lanes of traffic in each direction and may be softened by planted medians and side buffers. Crosstown Boulevards + Parkways include Dublin Boulevard, Amador Valley Boulevard, and San Ramon Road. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Key goals for these streets are: • Identity and Visibility – Reinforce a cohesive overall street identity while creating moments of interest and orientation to the smaller Downtown streets through larger scale gateways, signage, art, and intersection paving treatments. • Traffic Safety and Comfort – Moderate the effects of high traffic volumes on bicyclists and pedestrians by expanding pedestrian space and additional planting buffers. Commercial Throughways These streets are fronted by commercial uses including shopping, dining, and services. While they may carry significant volumes of traffic and be a part of crosstown traffic, they are distinguished by the scale of the street and density of commercial uses that front them. These streets include: Village Parkway and Amador Plaza Road. Key goals for these streets are: • Pedestrian-Scale Placemaking – Create a comfortable pedestrian realm that supports strolling, shopping, and dining. • Traffic Safety and Comfort – Moderate the effects of high traffic volumes on bicyclists and pedestrians by expanding pedestrian space and creating mid-block crossings. Downtown Local These shorter, smaller streets do not extend outside of the Downtown area. Like Commercial Throughways, they are predominantly fronted by commercial uses that include shopping, dining, and services, but also include residential and mixed-uses. These streets include: Regional Street, Golden Gate Drive, St. Patrick Way, and a small portion of Amador Valley Boulevard. Future Downtown Local streets are planned for the Retail District creating a new grid pattern in the center of Downtown. These streets are intended to compliment and support the new Town Square. Key goals for existing and future Downtown Local streets are: • • • Pedestrian-Scale Placemaking – Create a comfortable pedestrian realm that supports strolling, shopping, and dining, neighborhood socializing, and events. Traffic Safety and Comfort – Design “slow streets” with an emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Green Streets – Integrate generous space for trees, stormwater treatment, and “green infrastructure.” 10 Specific examples of streetscape improvements related to these goals for the streets are shown on Figure 3 described in Project Implementation Opportunities (1.2.3), Street Plans (3.0), and Identity and Elements (4.0). The Core The Core streets implement the Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision and are comprised of the four blocks around the new Town Square to create a downtown character with a synergy for a mix of uses to thrive. The extension of Golden Gate Drive from the BART station through Downtown Core will become a new main street within a classic street grid. Key goals for The Core streets are: • Pedestrian-Scale Placemaking – Create a comfortable pedestrian realm with generous sidewalks that supports strolling, shopping, and dining, neighborhood socializing, and events. • Traffic Safety and Comfort – Design “slow streets” with an emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. • Extension of the Town Square – Enhance the Town Square which has been designed with open space for activation where everyone can see each other. 11 exte Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 12 1.2.2 Funding and Implementing Improvements The streetscape improvement opportunities described in the Plan will be implemented incrementally via multiple parties and funding sources, including: Improvements may be either privately led, or publicly led through: • • • • Property Owner/Developer Requirements, Developer In-kind Community Benefit Program Capital Improvement Program Coordination with other public improvement projects and maintenance activities ‘Parklet’ projects – landowner/business-sponsored non-permanent improvements expanding the sidewalk zone into the parking zone 1.2.3 Project Implementation Opportunities Improvements to the public right-of-way, land use changes, and development are related. New developments will create a more “urban” small-town and pedestrian- friendly Downtown character — through uses that abut and activate the street. Change will be incremental but guided by the vision of this and other Downtown planning documents and initiatives. Recognizing the incremental nature of improvements, and the need to implement improvements as opportunities arise, the Plan categorizes improvements into the following four tiers that can be matched to project scale, budget, funding source, and other opportunities: • • • • Tier 1 – Small-scale, “tactical,” temporary improvements or events Tier 2 – Middle-scale, piece-meal/a la carte, and opportunistic projects Tier 3 – Large scale, major capital improvement streetscape projects Tier 4 – New downtown public spaces Cyclovia event – temporary street closures for autos opens streets for community celebration, recreational cycling, and walking Within the list of improvements identified in Tier 1 and Tier 2, suggested high-impact projects are identified, followed by secondary-priority projects. In some cases, within improvement categories, recommendations are provided for where these types of improvements should be installed first. Additional details on how these projects are to be implemented are provided in the Guidelines provided in Street Plans (3.0) and Identity and Elements (4.0). Street festival / food truck events Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 13 Tier 1 Improvements Tier 1 improvements do not require significant alterations to existing street infrastructure. Sometimes described as “tactical urbanism,” these “light” approaches include non- permanent features such as paint, temporary and short-term installations and placemaking, and events. This light approach may include “pilot” projects which are time-limited or reversible that can be used to prototype, collect data and refine concepts, prove the validity of, and build support for longer term improvements and more permanent physical changes. Additionally, Tier 1 improvements can create a greater sense of Downtown as a dynamic and changing place, encouraging, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, to slow, stop, and participate in Downtown, and to support the daily life of a growing Downtown community of businesses and residents. For further description and guidelines for these elements, see Street Plans (3.0) and Identity and Elements (4.0). See Figures 3 and 4 for recommended locations. Examples of Tier 1 improvements are provided below and grouped by suggested priority: Paint used to extend pedestrian safe space beyond the curb to reduce crossing length High Priority • • • Painted crossings and intersections Parklets Street closures Second Priority • • • Temporary art Banner arms and pole attachments Twinkle lights Shamrock painted in an intersection for St Patrick’s Day Example of trees illuminated with string lights Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 14 Tier 2 Improvements Tier 2 improvements target specific street improvements with less impact to existing infrastructure and systems than a comprehensive street re-construction. Characteristics of Tier 2 improvements include smaller projects that are more affordable, and for which funding may be more readily obtainable, localized improvements that have a reduced physical footprint and do not significantly change the configuration of existing curbs, utilities, or other infrastructure or projects that involve no construction and are, thus, faster to permit and install (tree plantings, banner replacements). Tier 2 improvements that also include projects that benefit the public realm often move forward under the umbrella of a larger project such as private development that necessitates upgraded sections of the public right-of-way in front of their property and large infrastructure and utility projects that provide an opportunity to add on targeted improvements to the streetscape. The following streetscape elements and systems are examples of improvements which could be installed individually or in combination as a Tier 2 improvement. For further description and guidelines for these elements, see Street Plans (3.0) and Identity and Elements (4.0). See Figures 3 and 4 for recommended locations. Examples of Tier 2 improvements are provided below and grouped by suggested priority: Example of sculptural art High Priority • • • • Gateways Re-striping / “Road Diet” Bulb-outs Mid-block crossing Example of wayfinding in Fresno and a kiosk in Burlingame Second Priority • • • • • • Art Wayfinding Tree replacement Street furnishings Street lighting Sidewalk pavement replacement Example of seasonal street trees Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 0 250’500’1,000’ n Amador V all e y Bl v d. V i l l a g e P kw y . Am a d o r P l a z a R d .Regiona l S t .San Ramon Rd.Golden Ga te D r . St. Patri c k W a y I- 6 8 0 I-580 Dublin Bl v d. Figure 3: Tier 1 and 2 Street and Pedestrian Enhancements ROADWAYS • Street closures • Parklets • Restriping / “Road Diet” SIDEWALKS • Where possible, expand sidewalk widths • Update paving, lighting, furnishings, trees, and planting • Plant trees on sections of streets where absent • Incorporate green infrastructure, space permitting • Provide social seating at intersections and mid-block breaks • Relocate utilities to back of sidewalk INTERSECTIONS • Remove “porkchops” • Enhance crosswalk paving • Painted crossings and intersections • Bulb-outs MID-BLOCK CROSSINGS • Enhance crosswalk paving • Include stormwater bulb-outs • Create social seating near corners GOLDEN GATE DRIVE • Retain recent improvements to Golden Gate Drive PUBLIC SPACES • Look for opportunities in the future to include public open spaces to create a center Downtown Legend Downtown Project Area + + + + + + + Preferred Vision Street Grid Restriping / “Road Diet” Evaluation Sidewalk Improvements Golden Gate Drive Improvements Public Spaces Mid-block crossing Improvements Street Closure Opportunity Intersection Improvements Parklet Opportunity 15 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan + + + + + + + Amador V all e y Bl v d. V i l l a g e P kw y . Am a d o r P l a z a R d .Regiona l S t .San Ramon Rd.Golden Ga te D r . St. Patri c k W a y I- 6 8 0 I-580 Dublin Bl v d. Senior Center West Dublin / Pleasanton BART Station Dublin Heritage Park & Museums Post Office Wells Middle School Valley High School Dublin Civic Center Dublin Library Dublin Sports Grounds Fire Department Mape Memorial Park 0 250’500’1,000’ n Figure 4: Tier 1 and 2 Identity, Art, and Wayfinding Locations Legend Downtown Project Area + + + + + + + Note: Opportunities shown are not inclusive of all locations. Additional locations to be considered based on existing conditions and future improvements at the time of implementation. Art Opportunity, Median + + + + + + + Wayfinding Signage Opportunity + + + + + + + Identity Signage Opportunity + + + + + + + Existing Privately-Owned Gathering Space + + + + + + + Existing Public Gathering Space + + + + + + + Existing Wayfinding Signage + + + + + + + Existing Identity Signage + + + + + + + Existing Public Art (Non-ROW) + + + + + + + Existing Public Art (ROW) + + + + + + + Existing Key Destinations+ + + + + + + Preferred Vision Street Grid Gateway Opportunity + + + + + + +Archway Opportunity Art Opportunity, Sidewalk + + + + + + + 16 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Tier 3 Improvements Major streetscape capital improvement projects include the comprehensive re-design and re-construction of streets, with opportunities to re-allocate street space — reclaiming “lost” or underutilized space to enhance the street character and create pedestrian space. These are long term projects that require significant planning, capital, and construction. They often involve the redesign of multiple existing systems in order to achieve multiple public improvement goals through a holistic design solution. Examples of significant system adjustments include upgrading or reconstructing streets, curb relocation, utility replacement or relocation, surfacing, and the reallocation of street space. In conjunction with planning and redevelopment efforts, Tier 3 projects could be conducted as major public works projects which could bring value to adjacent properties, spurring private investment and redevelopment, and create the public infrastructure to create a destination downtown main street. Chapter 3.0 provides concepts for two potential Tier 3 projects — redesign of Regional Street and Village Parkway. • Regional Street improvements include re-allocation of roadway space between curb, bike lane, street trees and planting, stormwater gardens, furnishings, paving, street lighting, art, bulb-outs. • Village Parkway improvements include bike lanes, street trees and plantings, site furnishings, paving, street lighting, art, and bulb-out/curb extensions, green infrastructure/stormwater gardens, and a gateway. Example of wide sidewalks with dining in the public right-of-way Example colorful paving in a flexible civic space 17 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Tier 4 – New Downtown Public Space / Gathering Areas In both community meetings conducted for the Plan, the public expressed a desire to provide Downtown with gathering spaces for children to play, people to meet and relax, and events to take place. The City should evaluate possible Downtown sites that can accommodate different types and sizes of public gathering areas at key intersections along the primary travel corridors. These include Golden Gate Drive, Dublin Boulevard, St. Patrick Way, Village Parkway, and Regional Street. As part of the Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision, the City Council approved the siting of a new Town Square; a one-acre park and plaza that will serve as Downtown Dublin’s primary gather place. The location of the Town Square is one block north of Dublin Boulevard along the proposed extension of Golden Gate Drive. The four-block area surrounding the Town Square referred to as “The Core” creates a downtown character with synergy for a mix of uses to thrive. The streets within The Core are unique and contribute to the vibrancy of the area. Chapter 3.0 provides the guidelines for The Core streets. Smaller scale public spaces such as neighborhood parks will be important for Downtown Dublin as its residential population continues to grow. These spaces will strengthen the sense of place, provide residents with outdoor space, and serve to promote pedestrian and biking movement between Downtown destinations. Green spaces will help build a connected community where residents can interact and come together for social events. Once sites are identified, make temporary and affordable improvements such as community tables, seating, and planting while permanent improvements are prepared. When complete, the park should feel part of the neighborhood, festive in nature, and provide space for active and passive uses. At the smallest level, provide sheltered seating areas along all circulation networks to activate Downtown connections. Provide directional signage, seating, planting, and interpretive elements at gathering areas to assist in navigation. Places for children to play allow neighbors to meet and socialize 18 Conceptual images of Town Square from Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK 2. EXISTING CONDITIONS 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Urban Context 20 Overall Streetscape Conditions 21 Existing Conditions on Regional and Village Parkway 24 Opportunities and Constraints 28 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 2.1 URBAN CONTEXT The City of Dublin grew up around the crossroads of two major trading routes – one running north-south between Martinez and San Jose and the second moving east-west between the Bay Area and Stockton – located approximately near the intersection of San Ramon Road and Dublin Boulevard. While the small settlement of Dublin was bypassed by the railroads, the small town rapidly expanded after World War II, incorporating in 1982. Consequently, the texture of Dublin’s urban fabric is typical of post-World War II suburban development, characterized by single-family homes, automobile-oriented commercial areas and wide streets. Downtown Dublin generally consists of large block sizes with parking lots fronting the streets, wide streets, large building footprints, and expansive parking lots, which foster an environment dominated by automobiles. Photo of the Downtown Dublin crossroads. On the right is the old Lincoln Highway 50, 1946. Photo of Downtown Dublin and development north of San Ramon Road and Amador Valley Boulevard 1961. 21 Aerial photo of the intersection of Dublin Boulevard and Regional Street, early 1970s. Photo of development growing around Village Parkway looking north from I-580 and I-680 Interchange, 1972. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 2.2 OVERALL STREETSCAPE CONDITIONS Space Allocation The land use character and supporting street network in Downtown Dublin is predominantly designed for motor vehicles. It includes large empty parking lots at the back of sidewalks, multiple driveways to the parking lots, and many wide multi-lane streets (Dublin Boulevard, San Ramon Road, and Amador Valley Boulevard) that carry a high motor vehicle traffic volume. Where these streets meet, intersections are large and often include multiple dedicated turn lanes, and right-turn slip lanes (or “pork- chops”). These intersection configurations and the land use character are designed for traffic flow and circulation of auto traffic and might not fully integrate multimodal access for pedestrians and cyclists. Of the three retail-oriented streets (Village Parkway, Regional Street, and Amador Plaza Road) that run north- south between Amador Valley Boulevard and Dublin Boulevard, the block lengths are long with few store fronts at the back of the sidewalks, and multiple driveways that give limited pedestrian comfort and crossing opportunities. Compounded with narrower sidewalks, non-existent interaction of public space with business frontages, and street furniture (utility poles, newspaper racks, benches, etc.) in the path of travel, the environment does not encourage pedestrian movement and comfort. On several streets, street trees have been planted at the back of sidewalk rather than behind the curb due to store fronts not connected with the sidewalks and where they would provide a buffer between pedestrian path-of-travel and fast-moving traffic. Along the streets, bicyclists and pedestrians will encounter multiple driveways to large parking lots that interrupt their movement and comfort, and also limit opportunities for trees and other amenities. Some bikeways are disconnected. In these locations, Class III bikeways shared with vehicles are provided to close a gap in the Class II striped bike lane network where the right-of-way is restricted. Some of the gaps in the bike network are planned to be implemented per the City of Dublin’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Street Character The character and quality of Downtown streets varies. Strong features include the recently improved Golden Gate Drive where abutting land uses were moved to the back of the sidewalks by removing large parking lots, Dublin Boulevard “shamrock” identity elements, public art, and mature trees in a variety of locations. However, as a whole, the Downtown streets lack an overall cohesive identity and quality. Throughout Downtown, street materials and furnishings such as paving, streetlights, benches, trash receptacles, and bus shelters are inconsistent and vary in design and age. Several streets benefit from a strong street tree presence, though many trees are aging, some species are prone to disease, and others lack a memorable visual presence. Sections of other streets on San Ramon Road, Amador Plaza Road, and St. Patrick Way have few trees or none at all. On many streets, street trees are located at the back of sidewalk, and wide setbacks of parking or landscaping between the building and street results in streets that feel uncontained and overly wide. In most places Downtown there is a lack of connection and interaction between building uses and the public realm. This, together with the lack of visible and significant social spaces within the pedestrian realm limits opportunities for Downtown “street life” such as dining, gathering, strolling and promenading. 22 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Existing Trees Many parts of Downtown Dublin contain large, mature, broad-canopy, deciduous street trees which contribute to the aesthetics of Downtown while providing shade, energy conservation, temperature control, and health benefits such as reduced air pollution and stress mitigation. Key issues for existing street trees: • • • Older trees need to be replaced over time. Time required to maintain and care for trees increases with the age of the tree. A limited number of species are used. This increases the potential for tree loss to disease and impacts to the Downtown’s appearance. Trees located on the private property side do not buffer pedestrians from street traffic. • Streetscape Elements and Systems As noted above, streetscape and district character is in large part defined by the surrounding land uses and the visual quality and continuity of the following streetscape elements and systems within the right-of-way: trees and planting; lighting; paving; furnishings; signage and wayfinding; and art. As Downtown Dublin’s streets have been developed and modified over the years, the existing elements and systems are mixed in visual character. Adding additional complexity are existing utilities that extend the length of roadways and laterally across sidewalks. Finding adequate space for all street improvements is a challenging endeavor. Redevelopment provides an opportunity to reshape the street to enhance the user experience and improve sustainability. Trees and planting: The most common trees found in Downtown are London plane, crape myrtle, and pear trees. Other trees used less frequently include Chinese pistache, camphor, pink dawn, ash, purple leaf plum, strawberry tree, and eastern redbud. Lighting: Cobra head roadway lighting on widely spaced, painted, and galvanized poles is typical throughout the Downtown. Village Parkway is lined by a separate, decorative, pedestrian scale streetlight pole with twin upright fixtures. Golden Gate Drive has its own decorative, modern style pedestrian streetlight fixture. Paving: Sidewalks typically consist of standard concrete paving. On Village Parkway, special paving is composed of paver bands, while on Golden Gate Drive widened bands of pavers were recently installed. San Ramon Road also includes a sinuous asphalt bike and pedestrian path on the western side of the street. Medians use concrete pavers to provide a maintenance strip around planting and fill in segments where the median tapers and narrows to accommodate turning lanes. Examples of existing streetscape elements in Dublin 23 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Furnishings: Furnishings differ across Downtown. Dublin Boulevard, Village Parkway, and Golden Gate Drive each have their own palette with older furnishings present while the remaining streets have few furnishings. Bus shelters vary in design including two shelters installed on Amador Valley Boulevard designed as public art pieces. Signage/Wayfinding: On Dublin Boulevard, special identity and wayfinding signage where designed with brown structural frames with a green metal shamrock pattern integrated into the middle of the frame. Identity signs are located in the median and include bronze letters and shamrocks mounted on the frame highlighting the City of Dublin as well as the neighborhood district. Wayfinding signs located in sidewalks include arrows and destinations. Art: Art in or visible from the public right-of-way in Downtown Dublin includes a mix of types and themes – from murals depicting Dublin history, to more contemporary stainless-steel furnishings such as a clock and bus shelters. Green infrastructure: With the exception of stormwater treatment planters installed as part of the recent Golden Gate Drive improvements, most stormwater on Downtown streets is not treated before entering the storm drain system. 1 2 3 Existing Art Downtown Dublin currently has seven works of public art in or visible from the public right- of-way, of which four pieces are installed as part of private development. These include the following pieces below and shown on the right: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Historic Crossroads, by Daniel Galvez, John Pugh and John Wehrle (qty 4 murals) Dublin Time, by Dan Dykes Bus Shelter, by Dan Dykes (qty 2) Indesign, by Ray Lamb Wellspring, Eric Powell Warbler Migration, Deirdre Murphy and Scott White Utility Box art (qty 2) 4 5 6 7 Existing artwork in Downtown Dublin 24 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 2.3 EXISTING CONDITIONS ON REGIONAL STREET AND VILLAGE PARKWAY 2.3.1 Regional Street Existing Conditions Regional Street extends south from Amador Valley Boulevard and terminates in a cul-de-sac south of Dublin Boulevard, near the St. Patrick Way extension. One residential community and a variety of commercial land uses are adjacent to Regional Street, including restaurants and cafes, retail, entertainment, services, and hotel. Buildings are set back and have a poor relationship to the street, though in some instances restaurants have outdoor dining facing the street. North of Dublin Boulevard, the typical street cross section includes center turn lane, travel lane in each direction. Large portions of the street are striped to prohibit parking, resulting in very wide, unused road space. Parallel parking is provided along the street in a few locations, though off-site parking is plentiful in adjacent lots. Sidewalks are approximately eight-foot wide on each side with street trees occurring at back of curb in different sizes of tree openings. Between Dublin Boulevard and Amador Valley Boulevard (approximately 1,100 feet), there are no demarcated crossings. 8’ Sidewalk 20’ Travel Lane and Parking 12’ 20’ 8’ Sidewalk Center Turn Travel Lane Lane 68’ Right-of-way (R.O.W.) and Parking Figure 5: Regional Street Existing Section 25 R.O.W. Private Property R.O.W. Private Property Regional Street and Village Parkway were identified as two streets that have the greatest opportunity to re-allocate street space to support the needs of pedestrians and bicycles. Of the three retail-oriented streets (Amador Plaza Road, Regional Street and Village Parkway) that run north-south, Regional Street and Village Parkway are characterized by long block lengths with only one pedestrian crossing opportunity combined. Both streets have their unique challenges but offer a variety of commercial land uses and underutilized space within the rights-of-way. The redesign for these streets is provided in Section 3.3 Regional Street and Village Parkway Alternatives. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Existing Conditions South of Dublin Boulevard, except for the intersection with Dublin Boulevard, street travel lanes are not striped. However, the approximate 51-foot curb to curb dimension generously accommodates one travel lane in each direction as well as on street parking. Sidewalks are approximately eight-foot wide on each side with street trees occurring at back of curb in three-foot by three-foot tree openings. Fire hydrants located at back of sidewalk present obstacles to the flow of pedestrian movement. No bicycle facilities are provided on Regional Street, though the street is planned as a bicycle route in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Downtown Dublin Specific Plan North of Dublin Boulevard, Regional Street falls within the Retail District of the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan (DDSP). The Retail District is envisioned to be a pedestrian-scale, walkable environment with businesses including a mix of retail (ranging from small independent retailers to national regional-serving retailers), service, office, and civic. South of Dublin Boulevard, Regional Street falls within the Transit-Oriented District of the DDSP. Land uses envisioned include mixed-use such as office or residential above ground floor retail, high-density multi-family residential, and office uses with a pedestrian-scale, walkable environment that is more urban in character than the surrounding area. Typical sidewalk conditions Wide street with one travel lane in each direction, center turn lane, and parking on both sides Perch – a recently constructed development 26 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 2.3.2 Village Parkway Existing Conditions Within the project area, the segment of Village Parkway between Amador Valley Boulevard and Dublin Boulevard is fronted by a wide variety of commercial uses, including dining, retail, and services. In contrast to other areas within Downtown, Village Parkway is fronted by a greater density of businesses with store fronts at the back of the sidewalk, many of which are smaller in scale and independently owned. The street is punctuated by numerous driveways serving parking areas. Segments of Village Parkway have parking on both sides (23 spaces on the west side and 19 spaces on the east side). Some of the curb is striped red to provide visibility and safety for access – and results in an unused roadway space that gives a perception of a wider street. A raised center median increases the sense of division across the street and a main utility line overhead runs down the center of the street. Crossing of the street is reserved to the intersecti ons. Pedestrian street crossings are inconvenient – crosswalks occur at intersections 760 feet and 880 feet (approximately three min. walk) apart. 8’ 8’ 5’ 11’ Travel Lane 10’ Travel Lane 16’ Median 100’ Right-of-way (R.O.W.) 10’ Travel Lane 11’ Travel Lane 5’ 8’ 8’ Sidewalk Parking Bike Lane Lane Bike Parking Sidewalk Lane Lane Figure 6: Village Parkway Existing Section 27 Private Property R.O.W. R.O.W. Private Property Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Existing Conditions The typical street cross section includes planted median, two travel lanes, bike lanes, and parking in each direction. The sidewalk is approximately eight-foot wide. Street trees are typically located at the back of walk impeding pedestrian movement, creating pinch- points and providing no buffer from cars. Downtown Dublin Specific Plan Village Parkway is located within the Village Parkway District of the DDSP. The Village Parkway District is envisioned to be a pedestrian-scale, walkable environment with diverse and complementary land uses. The district should incorporate live/work units and possibly high-density housing if an appropriate site is identified. Lighting and furnishing palette Trees at back of Raised center median with transformer walk Gathering spaces along Village Parkway Obstructed sidewalk path-of-travel 28 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 2.4 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS The existing conditions present the following general opportunities and constraints for Downtown streets. More specific opportunities and constraints are described in Chapter 4 – Street Plans. General Opportunities: • • Reclaim “lost” / under-utilized, and over-sized vehicular spaces for more pedestrian oriented uses. Within the sidewalk, establish clear zones for pedestrians and furnishings that include a step-out zone from curbside parking and a frontage zone for businesses (Figure 7). Build and expand on Dublin’s existing public art and signage identities – the shamrock icon, Dublin history, and more modern works. Address the frontage zone with streetscape improvements. Businesses need to move to the back of the sidewalk with implementation of the DDSP. Create a classic street grid through implementation of the Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision • • General Constraints: • • • Utility relocations that require time for coordination and implementation and have a high cost. Timing of land use changes and developments with Downtown property owners. Physical dimensions of streets and managing impacts of changes with existing vehicular traffic volumes. Parking Lane Furnishings Zone Throughway Private Development Zone with Setback Parking Lane Throughway Zone Private Development with Setback Figure 7: Sidewalk Layout 29 age Zone Frontage Zone Property Line Property Line Front Step out Zone Step out Zone Furnishings Zone • 3. STREET PLANS 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Expanding the Pedestrian Realm 30 Street Plan Guidelines 30 Regional Street and Village Parkway Alternatives 34 The Core Streets Guidelines 35 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Downtown is poised to become more vibrant through the addition of new housing, retail, commercial, and mixed-use development. The intent of the street improvements is to create better downtown places for people. Downtown streets should encourage people to move more slowly, and to interact more fully with their surroundings and with one another. This chapter focuses primarily on creating street space for people – reclaiming space for a safe, expanded, pedestrian-oriented public realm and better accommodating people traveling by bicycle and transit. The space and place-making opportunities described here are supplemented by further definition of street identity concepts and streetscape elements in the following chapter. 3.1 EXPANDING THE PEDESTRIAN REALM Expanded pedestrian space is needed along sidewalks, at intersections, and at mid-block crossings. Figure 3 in the Executive Summary (1.0) shows opportunities for street space improvements throughout Downtown. General sidewalk space recommendations for all Downtown streets include: • Where possible, expand Downtown sidewalk widths on Crosstown Boulevards + Parkways, Commercial Throughways, and Downtown Local streets to a typical 12-foot minimum to create a generous Downtown pedestrian realm for strolling, shopping, dining, and socializing. Urban Frontage (buildings located at back of sidewalk) – Provide a minimum 12-foot sidewalk, curb to face of building. A portion of sidewalk may be on private property. Commercial Frontage – Provide a 12-foot minimum sidewalk. The sidewalk should include a furnishing zone with tree grates, streetlights, street furniture, as well as a minimum five to six-foot clear throughway zone for walking. Dublin Boulevard – Provide a minimum 15-foot bike and pedestrian trail (five-foot tree zone and ten-foot path). Sidewalk widths are subject to change once each street is looked at more closely with the City’s long-term goals. • • • • 3.2 STREET PLAN GUIDELINES Guideline 3.2.1 Sidewalk Zones Organize the sidewalk to limit and buffer interaction with vehicles, create a clear and direct walking route, and create spaces for socializing and activating the streetscape. Proposed zones for expanded sidewalks (Figure 8) include: • Flexible Frontage Zone – Located adjacent to the property line (up to two feet) or in the private set back to support outdoor dining, and seating. (Not required) • Through Zone – Provide continuous clear walking zone (five feet minimum). 31 • Furnishing Zones – Locate trees and utilities at back of curb to provide adequate space for street furnishings, plantings, and other amenities and pedestrians with a pleasurable and unhindered walking experience (five feet minimum). • Step-out Zone – Provide a clear zone adjacent to parking, where it occurs (required, two feet minimum). 32 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan KKTT Figure 8: Enlarged Plan of Typical Improvements Outdoor diningStreet trees Art opportunity Street lightsKioskRaised plantersSeating area with ornamental planting Enhanced paving Mid-block crossing with bulb-out Enhanced crosswalk Stormwater planting Flexible Frontage ZoneStep-out Zone Through ZoneFurnishing Zone Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Guideline 3.2.2 Bulb-outs Bulb-outs provide safety for pedestrians by reducing street crossing distances and are typically located at intersections and mid-block crossings. Bulb-outs may also be located along a sidewalk in place of a parking space or to narrow an overly wide roadway to expand the pedestrian realm. The space created in the bulb-out can provide for a combination of seating, art, stormwater planters or ornamental planting. These components together improve the visual appearance of a street, making it an inviting place to walk. Bulb-outs are recommended at all intersections, especially larger intersections on the Crosstown Boulevards + Parkways. Example of a raised mid-block crossing Guideline 3.2.3 Mid-block Crossing Mid-block crossings provide pedestrians with opportunities to shorten the street crossing distances and to increase safety. In addition to existing mid-block crossings on Amador Plaza Road and Amador Valley Boulevard, add two mid-block crossings first on Regional Street and then on Village Parkway. Mid-block crossings should include bulb- outs that provide opportunities for a combination of ornamental planting, stormwater planting, social seating, and art. Crosswalks should include special paving that increases pedestrian visibility and encourages vehicles and cyclists to proceed at a reduced speed. Example of an improved intersection with bulb-outs that reduce crosswalk lengths and enhanced, visible paving Example of an expanded sidewalk 33 Guideline 3.2.4 Roadway Enhancements “Re-striping/“Road Diet” Where possible on streets with wide travel and parking lanes, redistribute roadway space by restriping the lanes and parking. Use the saved space to provide bike lanes, buffers for existing bike lanes, or sidewalk expansions. Improve bicycling experience by providing dedicated lanes or cycle tracks and limit the sharing of space with pedestrians and vehicular traffic. At intersections and mid-block crossings, stripe crosswalks to be more visible, improving safety for pedestrians crossing the street. Guideline 3.2.5 Enhanced Intersections and Crosswalks Short-Term/ Temporary - Street painting treatments such as graphics painted across entire intersections can create a high-impact visual “gateway.” Paint, along with other temporary elements (such as flexible bollards or planter pots), can be used to create pedestrian space in the form of sidewalk “bulb-outs” or mini-street plazas where curb changes would not be immediately feasible. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Long-Term - Establish a design that can be used in all crosswalks to help make them highly visible, improve pedestrian safety, and tie into an art theme throughout Downtown. At intersections identified as gateways, expand the artwork across the entire intersection using a patterned design reflective of the City of Dublin. This design could be applied with paint, stamped asphalt, or thermoplastic. Its scale and appearance will signal to visitors and residents that they have moved within the boundaries of the Downtown district. The design should be considered public art as created by the Public Art Master Plan and would be subject to a selection process. Parklets expand the sidewalk and create social spaces Guideline 3.2.6 Parklets Parklets expand a sidewalk through re-purposing a parking space or stretches of red- striped curb. In these parklets, creative seating, tables and chairs, planting and art can improve the pedestrian experience and the visibility of businesses within the district. Installations near coffee houses or restaurants are ideal locations for parklets. Guideline 3.2.7 Street Closures Working together with the City to ensure a safe event, adjacent property owners, groups, or individuals can request that a street be temporarily closed for a special event. Such events include neighborhood block parties, food trucks, music events, art fairs, farmers’ markets, and many others. In Downtown Dublin, The Core streets and St. Patrick Way between Golden Gate Drive and Regional Street provides an excellent location to host such events given its existing low traffic volume and close proximity to BART and the retail centers. Other examples of the many street closures around the Bay Area include San Francisco’s Play Streets and Sunday Streets, Oakland Museum’s Friday Nights, and weekend Farmers’ Markets in Burlingame and Berkeley. Street closures provide opportunities for events that attract people from nearby and regions beyond 34 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Key Map 3.3 REGIONAL STREET AND VILLAGE PARKWAY ALTERNATIVES Two streets, Regional Street and Village Parkway were studied in greater depth and alternatives developed which re-allocate street space to create space that supports the needs of pedestrians and bicycles and which creates space for improved public amenities such as art, wayfinding signage, gateways, furnishings, and plantings. The alternatives maintain the existing right-of-way width. If, in the future, additional right-of-way is required it shall be allocated to widening the sidewalk. 3.3.1 Regional Street The redesign of Regional Street retains the existing curb locations and re-allocates road space, removing the center turn lane except at key driveways and intersections, and adding buffered bicycle lanes on each side of the street (Figures 9 and 10). Two mid-block crossings are proposed. Additionally, the plan increases the number of curbside parking spaces. It provides bulb-outs along the length of the street for social gathering with seating, art, and ornamental planting together with stormwater treatment. Improvements on Regional Street must consider future bike access from bike lanes on St. Patrick Way that will connect to businesses on Regional Street and then to San Ramon Road. Accommodate this change as land is redeveloped west of Regional Street between San Ramon Road and Regional Street. Upgrade furnishings, paving, and lighting per Chapter 5.0. Integrate art in the social spaces and at intersections. At intersections, provide bulb-outs where possible, to reduce crossing distance and improve safety for pedestrians. At these locations introduce green infrastructure stormwater best practices. Main driveways may require a short turn lane. To accommodate them, remove parking adjacent to the driveways to provide space for the turn lanes. 35 Private Property R.O.W. Figure 9: Regional Street Section Right-of-way (R.O.W.) *Future potential 4’+ on private side Opportunities • Street parking maximized • Bike lanes • Introduction of mid-block crossings • New bulb-outs in areas along curbs currently striped red • Trees at back of curb • Paving improvements • Future potential four-foot + sidewalk expansion on private side 4’* Sidewalk Parking Lane Buffered Bike Lane Parking Sidewalk Lane Buffered Bike Lane 11’ Travel Lane 11’ Travel Lane 8’ 7’ 8’ 7’ 8’ 8’* 8’* 4’* R.O.W. Private Property 68’ Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK 37 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan AMADOR VALLEY BLVDREGIONAL ST New bulb-out (stormwater), typ.tighter radiusDriveway closureUpdated crosswalkExisting driveway, typ.tighter radiusBuffered bike lane2-foot striped bufferNew bulb-out (stormwater), typ.New parallel parking, typ.New mid-block crossingNew bulb-out (social), typ.Figure 10: Regional Street Plan (75 Parking Spaces) Social Space Mid-block Crossing Bike Buffer Bike Lane Stormwater Planting Street-side Parking Legend Driveway Art Opportunity Existing Identity Signage Notes: 1. for clarity of street space allocation, trees and furnishings are not shown.2. Driveway consolidation locations are examples only and the actual location may vary. Sidewalk 38 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Key Map ST. PATRICK WAYREGIONAL ST DUBLIN BLVDTighter radiusTighter radiusTighter radiusStormwater planter at corners, typ.Realigned crosswalks at intersectionsTighter radiusNew mid-block crossingNew bulb-out (social), typ.0 1” = 120’ 60 180 N Legend Art Opportunity Existing Identity Signage Social Space Mid-block Crossing Bike Buffer Bike Lane Stormwater Planting Street-side Parking Driveway Notes: 1. for clarity of street space allocation, trees and furnishings are not shown.2. Driveway consolidation locations are examples only and the actual location may vary. Sidewalk Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Key Map 3.3.2 Village Parkway The redesign of Village Parkway retains existing curbs and sidewalks and targets improvements to specific areas (Figure 11). To improve a sense of connection across the street, the raised median is lowered. It recommends relocating trees and utilities to the back of curb to create a clear path of travel for pedestrians on the sidewalk. Mid-block crossings are introduced as are bulb-outs in locations where parking is not possible. Art, stormwater and ornamental planting, and seating can be provided in the bulb-outs to encourage pause and social gathering. This design will require a traffic study before it can be considered for implementation. The changes include an update to the street tree planting using proposed Columnar Hornbean, Red Maple and Eastern Redbud trees, an upgrade of furnishings, paving, and lighting per Chapter 5, and integrated art in the social spaces and at intersections. Where possible, provide bulb-outs at intersections to reduce crossing distance and improve safety for pedestrians. At these locations, introduce green infrastructure stormwater best management practices. At the intersection with Dublin Boulevard, evaluate an arched gateway together with enhanced paving improvements at both Amador Valley Boulevard and Dublin Boulevard (see Section 5.1 – Signage + Wayfinding). 39 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Key Map 8’ 8’ 2’ 5’ 10’ Travel Lane 10’ Travel Lane 16’ Median 100’ Right-of-way (R.O.W.) 10’ Travel Lane 10’ Travel Lane 5’ 2’ 8’ 8’ Sidewalk Parking Lane Bike Lane Bike Lane Parking Sidewalk Lane Figure 11: Village Parkway Section Opportunities Challenges • Sidewalk width remains 8-feet • Retains the existing sidewalk width, center median and turn pockets, and provides a bike buffer Evaluate selective driveway closures Possible 4-foot easements for sidewalk expansion Lower raised median Introduction of mid-block crossings with pedestrian refuge New bulb-outs in areas along curbs currently striped red Stormwater treatment located in bulb-outs along the sidewalk Extensions of existing bulb-outs Bulb-outs and/or tightening up of radii at intersection corners Striped or removal of pork chop configurations at intersections Trees at back of curb Paving improvements Utility relocation (fire hydrant, utility vaults, etc.) to back of curb • • • • • • • • • 40 Private Property R.O.W. Buffer Buffer R.O.W. Private Property • • • • 41 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Figure 12: Village Parkway Plan (36 Parking Spaces)Enhance entire intersectionLower existing raised medianNew bulb-out (social)Maintain overhead utility clearanceReconfigured existing parkingExisting corner to remainExisting corner to remainBulb-out extension (social)Bulb-out extension (social)New bulb-out (social)New mid-block crossing with pedestrian refugeNew bulb-out (stormwater), typ.New bulb-out (social) at bus stopPork chop removed. New bulb-out with tighter radiusAMADOR VALLEY BLVDLEWIS AVEBuffreed bike lane, typ.VILLAGE PARKWAY Notes: 1. for clarity of street space allocation, trees and furnishings are not shown.2. Driveway consolidation locations are examples only and the actual location may vary. Social Space Mid-block Crossing Bike Buffer Bike Lane Stormwater Planting Street-side Parking Driveway Legend Art Opportunity Gateway Opportunity Existing Public Art (ROW) Existing Identity Signage Existing Public Gathering Space Sidewalk 42 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan New mid-block crossing with pedestrian refugeEnhance entire intersectionMaintain overhead utility clearanceNew bulb-out (social) at bus stopNew bulb-out (stormwater), typ.New bulb-out (social)Reconfigured existing parkingLower existing raised medianNew bulb-out with tighter radiusNew bulb-out (social)DUBLIN BLVDVILLAGE PARKWAY 0 1” = 120’ 60 180 N Key Map Notes: 1. for clarity of street space allocation, trees and furnishings are not shown.2. Driveway consolidation locations are examples only and the actual location may vary. Social Space Mid-block Crossing Bike Buffer Bike Lane Stormwater Planting Street-side Parking Driveway Legend Art Opportunity Gateway Opportunity Existing Public Art (ROW) Existing Identity Signage Existing Public Gathering Space Sidewalk 3.4 THE CORE STREETS A key component to the Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision is the new street grid of public and private streets that provide a traditional downtown format. The street grid provides a unifying framework that integrates varied activities and amenities into a coherent district. The Core streets are a key component in this framework and are comprised of the four blocks around the Town Square. The extension of Golden Gate Drive from BART through Downtown will become a new main street within a traditional street grid. 3.4.1 Design The Core Streets are defined by their generous sidewalks creating a comfortable pedestrian realm that supports strolling, shopping, and dining, neighborhood socializing, and events. The Core Streets will serve as an extension of the Town Square in their ability to be closed off for pedestrian only events. The design details create a unique place for Downtown’s main street. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 43 Conceptual image of The Core from the Downtown Dublin Preferred Vision 4. IDENTITY AND ELEMENTS 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 Identity 44 Signange + Wayfinding 45 Art 47 Paving 49 Street Furnishings 50 Street Lighting 52 Street Trees 53 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Streetscape elements are the materials and features that compose a streetscape (e.g., paving, furnishings, planting, etc.). In addition to serving a functional purpose, the design and palette of these elements are means to express the Downtown identity. This section provides a conceptual identity and provides guidance and standards for new streetscape elements. 4.1 IDENTITY An improved identity for Downtown Dublin will build from existing strengths – Dublin’s stately trees; its public art; its signage which expresses Dublin’s “shamrock” brand identity, and recent streetscape improvements on Golden Gate Drive. The identity will also build from the themes expressed by the community at public workshops – the desire for urban vibrancy, bold design statements, distinctive and artistic elements, places for socializing and gathering for all ages, incorporation of play, and decorative night-time lighting. The Downtown streetscape identity will further support the City’s brand as “The New American Backyard” – a diverse, forward looking city, with a relaxed atmosphere that is unpretentiously ambitious and casually sophisticated. Design motifs that support this identity are: Examples of Downtown wayfinding and signage color palette • Color: » » » Warm browns, vibrant yellows and gold that express comfort and energy Greens, that express nature and the City’s “Irish” identity Metallic / silver that expresses a future orientation • Episodic use of bold, bright accent colors in planting, and temporary features that express artful, urban liveliness and transformation Patterns and textures: Celtic knot patterning, Irish tartan/plaid, and textures, but with modern materials and variation, expressing layering of influences and connectedness • 45 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 4.2 SIGNAGE + WAYFINDING Guideline 4.2.1 Gateways Use gateways to direct and welcome people to the Downtown district. Gateways elements such as arches or identifiable markers at primary entry points will signal to residents and visitors that they have arrived in Downtown Dublin. An arch is recommended across Amador Plaza Road. In other locations, consider the use of gateway monuments if spanning the street is not feasible. Other gateway improvements are recommended at the intersection of St. Patrick Way and the I-680 offramp and on Dublin Boulevard at the intersection of San Ramon Road and may require collaboration with Caltrans. Examples of arched gateways in Oakland and Encinatas and monument entry markers in Burlingame Example of conceptual gateway pylon 46 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 4.2.2 Wayfinding Signs Dublin Boulevard has an existing signage and wayfinding system that uses monuments composed of shamrock cutout panels. Building off this shamrock design new Downtown sign standards that incorporate the shamrock in a unique way can be used on all Downtown streets to provide additional direction to help drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists easily navigate Downtown and arrive at their destination. Wayfinding and signage areas of improvement include: Connections Destinations that require better directional signage and safer links include the Iron Horse Trail, connections under the freeway, BART, and destinations beyond the limits of the Downtown district. Bicyclists and Pedestrians Signage for bicyclists and pedestrians should include directions to trails, public restrooms, and drinking fountains. Retail In key locations around the main retail streets, add pedestrian wayfinding signage to orient people to shops, dining, entertainment, and transit. Street Signage The shamrock shall be integrated into street name signs throughout Downtown. Example of conceptual signage and kiosk Possible ways to incorporate the Dublin shamrock in street signage 47 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 4.3 ART Through art, Dublin can tell a story about its history and values, the environment, and how the community sees itself in the future. Building on Downtown’s existing public art pieces, the City has an opportunity to turn Downtown into a destination that gratifies, educates, inspires, and uplifts its community. This plan identifies potential themes, locations, and types of art that would enhance the streetscape. Currently, the City requires all capital projects and private developments to reserve a portion of a project’s budget for public art and the City’s Public Art Master Plan describes the existing programs, policies, and guidelines. Art elements included as part of streetscape improvement projects would be subject to a selection process determined by the City and consistent with the Public Arts Master Plan. Painted intersection as art Proposed Art Locations and Installation Types Locate art in a manner that it is accessible and visible to the public. Prominent locations will increase appreciation of the art and make its location a destination that people will be encouraged to visit, stop, ponder, and with which they will want to interact. Such places can include intersections, plazas, medians, transit stops, and within the sidewalk. Locating seating nearby helps give the public a place to pause and appreciate the art. Vary the medium and scale of the art throughout Downtown to provide a range of sensory experiences, whether from afar or up close. Possible art and gateway locations and installation methods could include the following: In the ground – Make use of the sidewalk surfaces to install historical plaques, mosaics, art walk, art as historic markers, or other two-dimensional artworks. Locate these near transit stops, seating areas, and places where people pause and will have ample opportunity to enjoy them. In the median – Install larger art pieces such as sculpture or kinetic art that can be enjoyed by people crossing the street while pausing in median refuge islands. It may also be appreciated by those traveling by vehicle and by people on nearby sidewalks. Avoid blocking viewsheds near pedestrian crossings. On the sidewalk – Similar to medians, artwork can also be installed in the furnishing zone within the sidewalk. Ensure that the art does not impede pedestrian movement, car parking, utilities, and sight lines near driveways and intersections. Mosaic tiles inlaid in the ground Sculpture as art in the median Art on the sidewalk Tiled mural on the wall Existing wall mosaic as storytelling 48 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Walls – Art installed on walls provides an opportunity to tell stories using, for example, murals and mosaics. It is possible to create wall art that allows for public interaction and social media appeal. This art approach would help give Downtown a social media presence. Art benches –Install colorful art benches with a shamrock pattern, distinct from the standard Downtown bench, throughout the Downtown district. These benches should be comfortable and ADA compliant. Art bike racks – Where space permits, consider the installation of art bike racks that are whimsical and colorful. These could be designed in the shape of the Dublin shamrock. These bike racks should also be secure and functional. Kinetic – Art that responds to the natural elements whether wind, sun, seasons, movement or other is a successful way to activate spaces. Kinetic art could highlight sustainable energies and generate energy used to power nearby art, lighting, or signage features. Utility box art – Continue to wrap art around utility cabinets. Consider working with an artist and schools to allow children to participate in the design process. Continue to integrate the shamrock and explore other designs, similar to the playful appearance of utility cabinets in Oakland and other Alameda county cities. History – Incorporate art that interprets Dublin’s history, such as the crossroads of Dublin. Other options include art that educates the community about respected and famous people that have come from or influenced the story of Dublin. Underpasses – Continue to maintain and upkeep the murals underneath Interstate 680. Example of art benches in Palo Alto Bike rack art Kinetic art Utility box art Interactive art for social media 49 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 4.4 PAVING Pavement replacement can take place incrementally as improvements are made to private parcels or public infrastructure in the right-of-way. With a paving material selected, future paving replacement is to reflect it. As more paving is installed, its appearance will become more continuous and legible, helping to identify the limits of Downtown Dublin. Install paving replacement in the median and behind the curb in the sidewalk furnishing zone and throughway as well as intersection corners and bulb-outs where planting is absent. Guideline 4.4.1 Sidewalk Paving Sidewalk paving patterns and colors are inspired by the recent improvements on Golden Gate Drive. Based on the extent of the improvements, install sidewalk paving as follows: Use City Standard concrete mix with 1-1.5 pounds of Lampblack, introducing interlocking concrete pavers (permeable, where possible) in accent bands every 30 feet, similar to Golden Gate Drive. Bands are to be eight-feet wide and should extend from the back of curb to back of sidewalk. When possible, implement sidewalk paving improvements on an entire street basis. When smaller segments of a street sidewalk are improved, study the adjacent existing conditions. If accent pavers are already present, continue the pavers using the 30-foot spacing to create an identifiable rhythm along the entirety of the street. Example of paving pattern on Goldend Gate Drive. Guideline 4.4.2 Median Paving Use a four-inch by eight-inch permeable paver in a herringbone pattern within the median. The color is to be similar to the dominant color proposed in the sidewalk. Provide a 20-inch paver strip around planting for maintenance that is retained with an edge restraint. In medians less than 12 feet wide, eliminate pavers and use a walkable planting groundcover. Example of herringbone paving pattern in a median. 50 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 4.5 STREET FURNISHINGS The following furnishing guidelines provide consistency throughout the Downtown. Materials have a contemporary appearance in form and material. Consider “art” furnishings to create spontaneity and to add vibrant colors (see Section 5.2). The furnishings listed below are all pre-approved and may only be substituted with a similar design upon approval of the Community Development Director and Public Works Director. Guideline 4.5.1 Seating Bench, typical – The typical bench should have a modern appearance and incorporate wood and a metal frame. The bench should include a back and armrests at the bench ends. Wood is to be unfinished, durable, and sustainably harvested. Approved bench is manufactured by Generation 50 with Jarrah wood and black powder coated legs. Art bench – Design an art bench for the Downtown district that is whimsical, ADA compliant, and that varies in paint color throughout the Downtown. The bench could be customized to include shamrock motifs. Install art benches in locations with greater visibility and pedestrian movement including mid-block crossings, gateway intersections, and near BART. Bench lengths will vary based on available space. An ideal layout would have benches face each other perpendicular to the curb to encourage social interaction with four to five feet of space between benches. Where space is insufficient in the furnishing zone (see Figure 2 – Sidewalk Layout in Chapter 2), run benches parallel to the curb in the furnishing zone, facing the building rather than the street to participate in pedestrian street life rather than the busy traffic in the roadway. Provide a minimum 2-foot clearance between the face of curb and the back of bench, regardless of orientation. Set benches back a minimum of 18 inches from the pedestrian throughway when installed parallel to the street. As street seating layouts are designed, provide a minimum 30-inch by 48-inch clear zone adjacent to benches for wheelchairs. A majority of benches installed are to have back support, armrests, and seat heights between 17 to 19 inches. Generation 50 bench from Landscape Forms Example of a bench with custom cut-outs Guideline 4.5.2 Bike Racks Bike racks are to be a shamrock-shaped, have two points for locking, and meet the design guidelines of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. Colors are to vary throughout Downtown. The custom bike rack is available from Dero. Example of shamrock-shaped bicycle racks 51 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Guideline 4.5.3 Trash and Recycling Receptacles Provide black powder coated recycling, trash and compost receptacles throughout the Downtown at intersections and mid-block crossings. Recycling receptacle is to be single stream. Receptacles are to be clearly labeled to communicate the desired waste stream. Trash receptacles are to have wide-mouthed openings to accept larger pieces of trash. Approved receptacles are manufactured by Dispatch by Forms + Surfaces. Guideline 4.5.4 Tree Grates Tree grates are to be powder coated black matte and are to match those already in use in the Downtown (Kiva by Urban Accessories). These should measure four feet by eight feet and only be smaller (16 square feet, minimum) if constrained by space. Grates are to be ordered with a center opening expansion of a minimum two feet, six inches to reduce long term maintenance issues when the tree trunk expands. To accommodate tree stakes, knock-outs are to be provided with cover plates to screw into holes when stakes are removed. Provide a minimum of two stakes and three stakes where subject to high winds. Examples of single and split stream powdercoated receptacles Guideline 4.5.5 Bus Shelters Retain the existing Public Art Bus Shelters on Amador Valley Boulevard. With the exception of Rapid Bus shelters which are Tri Valley wide, replace all old bus shelters with the new City/LAVTA City standard bus shelter. Coordinate with LAVTA for changes to bus shelters. Existing tree grate in Dublin Existing tree grate with holes for stakes Existing art and standard bus shelters in Dublin 52 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 4.6 STREET LIGHTING Street lighting plays an important role in the identity of a district. Similar to trees, streetlights are a memorable vertical element that create a visible rhythm when spaced appropriately. When poles are spaced too far apart, their rhythm is broken by myriad competing visual elements in the surroundings. Furthermore, streetlights provide an opportunity to clearly brand a district through the use of a distinctive decorative pole with banners hung from the side. Incorporate alternating roadway and pedestrian- scaled poles. On the backside of roadway poles, provide pedestrian scale fixtures at the same height as the fixtures on pedestrian poles to safely illuminate the sidewalk path of travel. Roadway poles should be strong enough to support a catenary system running overhead banners or lights across intersections as well as comply with fire code height requirements. On Commercial Throughways, Downtown Local streets, and at intersections, provide poles with GFI receptacles for event power in the base. To limit light pollution, light fixtures are to be full cut-off fixtures and LED. Poles and fixtures are to be powder coated (RAL color to be determined). Retain the recently installed streetlights on Golden Gate Drive to reduce waste and costs. Prioritize Commercial Throughways, then Downtown Local streets, and finally Crosstown Boulevards +Parkways. Street lighting improvements are encouraged to be reviewed and installed on a block-by-block to provide a uniform, safe, and consistently lit street. Example of twin head roadway lighting in the median Guideline 4.6.1 Roadway Lighting In the median, provide a twin head model. In the sidewalk, provide a roadway fixture facing the street and a pedestrian fixture at a lower height on the back of the pole. Example of roadway lighting with pedestrian lighting on back of pole Example of post top pedestrian lighting in a similar style to the roadway lighting Guideline 4.6.2 Pedestrian Lighting Between roadway poles in the sidewalk, provide a pedestrian pole from the same roadway pole family with a matching fixture to augment lighting for pedestrians. Poles and fixtures are to be powder coated (RAL color to be determined). In the case of Golden Gate Drive, do not replace the recently installed streetlights. Example of banner arms Street light on Golden Gate Drive 53 Guideline 4.6.3 Banner Arms and Pole Attachments Banners that highlight community interests can be designed to fasten to existing street poles. Install banner arms on all roadway poles with integrated mounts for break-away arms to allow for banners to be hung celebrating the City of Dublin, Downtown, and any seasonal events that are taking place. Additionally, decorative LED lights mounted on street poles can be added that project RGB color-changing lighting on paving surfaces and can be controlled and dimmed. 52 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Guideline 4.6.4 String Lights and Twinkle Lights Downtown Dublin is a destination that should feel lively during the day and night. Twinkle lights add to a street’s sense of place at night, identifying it as a special evening destination. To encourage use of the Downtown during the evening, install twinkle lights first on Commercial Throughway streets (Village Parkway and Amador Plaza Road), and then on Regional Street, Golden Gate Drive and future Downtown Local streets as shown in Figure 2. Evaluate the success of the lights on a seasonal basis, then consider extending the use of twinkle lights on a year-round basis. Where twinkle lights are used, provide a maintenance plan to ensure that string lights around trunks and branches do not inhibit tree growth and are restrung when required. Standing power receptacles for lighting are not permitted in tree wells and should be installed in adjacent J-Boxes, as required, and in coordination with an electrical engineer and meeting code requirements. 4.7 STREET TREES A street’s unique character is strongly tied to the tree species found on it. Design approach and technical considerations are in Appendix 5.0 Technical Information. Example of trees wrapped in string lights 4.7.1 Tree replacement As Downtown street trees age and require replacement, or as new development improvements trigger updates to the public realm, install the approved trees for each specific street. Where gaps in the Downtown urban forest exist, install new trees. Trees in the sidewalk are to be installed with the approved City tree grate. 54 THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK 5. PLANNING AND COMMUNITY PROCESS 5.1 Stakeholder Outreach and Community Workshops 59 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan The planning process undertaken as part of the preparation of the Plan involved outreach with the public, City Council, landowners, business owners, etc. This included: one-on-one and small group stakeholder interviews, two community workshops, and online surveys. 5.1 STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS A series of stakeholder meetings were held to gather insights into community perspectives, objectives and actions, concerns, and measures of success on the Plan. The sessions addressed a series of questions: • What defines Dublin’s Downtown and what are its unique strengths? • List the top objectives for the future of Downtown Dublin Streetscape design. • List the top concerns about the future of Downtown Dublin Streetscape design. • Suggest strategies or actions that could help achieve these objectives. • List measures by which you will judge the success of the Dublin Downtown Streetscape planning process? The first community workshop was scheduled to listen and learn from the public about their specific needs and desires as they relate to the public streets and spaces that make up Downtown Dublin. The meeting consisted of a presentation of the project, scope of improvements, existing conditions, and opportunities and constraints. The attendees then broke into small groups to discuss and comment on Street Character, Circulation and Traffic, Public Spaces + Street Life, and Identity, Art + Wayfinding. The second community workshop focused on identity, gateways and art, and street plans for the Downtown streets. The community reviewed prepared alternatives for the distribution of space for two streets to make them safer and more pedestrian-friendly. Input was solicited after the presentation and during a break-out session where community members approached boards closely and inquired and commented on the material. Stakeholders and consultants discuss the opportunities in Downtown at the first workshop Community members discuss circulation and traffic concerns at the first workshop 59 Community members provide input on preferred streetscape elements as well as Village Parkway and Regional Street alternatives at the second workshop Street Trees and Understory Planting 61 6.1 6.2 6.3 Green Infrastructure 74 Utilities 76 TECHNICAL INFORMATION 6. Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 6.1 STREET TREES AND UNDERSTORY PLANTING Design Approach and Technical Considerations • Community preferences include a variety of trees that have a strong visual impact, flower, provide seasonal change and shade, and have low allergy- inducing potential. Provide each street with a unique identity. Use a variety of trees to reduce the risk of large-scale tree loss due to disease. When multiple tree species are used on a street, group tree species in a discernible pattern that provides rhythm and structure to the street. Provide continuity along Dublin Boulevard, the backbone of the street network in Dublin. Planting to be climate adapted. Planting to be low, drought and recycled water tolerant. Planting to be low maintenance and suitable for urban conditions. Tree guards are to be avoided due to maintenance concerns and delayed removal which impacts a tree’s trunk and health. Plant accent trees intermittently throughout Downtown in social gathering areas and medians. • • • • • • • • Street Tree Planting Guidelines Size Recommended nursery grown container sizes is 36-inch box. Trees are to have a minimum two-inch caliper at breast height. Tree Species by Street Each street is to have a consistent and unique palette of street trees in the sidewalk and, where available, in the median (see Figure 13). Example of drought tolerant planting Example of colorful foliage in the fall 61 • Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Figure 13: Proposed Tree Species by Street Note: Accent Trees are to be located intermittently throughout Downtown in social gathering areas and medians. 62 Street Existing Species Proposed Species Amador Valley Boulevard London Plane, Crape Myrtle Quercus coccinea – Scarlet Oak (sidewalk) Zelkova serrata ‘Musashino’ – Musashino Zelkova (median) Quercus virginiana – Southern Live Oak (median) Dublin Boulevard London Plane, Crape Myrtle Platanus x acerifolia – London Plane Tree (sidewalk) Lagerstroemia x indica – Crape Myrtle (median) Zelkova serrata ‘Musashino’ – Musashino Zelkova (median) Quercus virginiana – Southern Live Oak (median) St. Patrick Way Calleryana Pear Zelkova serrata – Zelkova (sidewalk) Regional Street Calleryana Pear Koelreuteria paniculata – Golden Rain Tree (sidewalk) Cercis canadensis – Eastern Redbud (accent) Golden Gate Drive Calleryana Pear, Pink Dawn Gleditisia triacanthos inermis ‘Shademaster’ – Thornless Honey Locust (sidewalk) Lagunaria patersonii – Primrose Tree (median) San Ramon Road Raywood Ash, Calleryana Pear, Crape Myrtle, Strawberry Tree, Chinese Pistache Pistacia chinensis – Chinese Pistache (sidewalk) Zelkova serrata ‘Musashino’ – Musashino Zelkova (median) Quercus virginiana – Southern Live Oak (sidewalk and median) Amador Plaza Road Ornamental Pear Ulmus parvifolia – Chinese Evergreen Elm (sidewalk) Cercis canadensis – Eastern Redbud (accent) Village Parkway Calleryana Pear, Crape Myrtle, Purple Leaf Plum, Eastern Redbud Acer rubrum ‘Armstrong’ – Red Maple (sidewalk) Carpinus betulus fastigiata– Columnar Hornbeam (median) Cercis canadensis – Eastern Redbud (accent) Future Downtown Local Streets n/a TBD – Selected species will be determined with the design of the street based on the guidelines Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Soils Tree openings – Tree opening dimensions in the sidewalk will vary depending on sidewalk widths. A minimum of 32 square feet is to be provided. A minimum width of four feet is recommended. Soil volume – To ensure greatest potential for large canopy trees, soil volumes are to provide 20 cubic yards of amended soil beyond the root ball. A minimum of 12 cubic yards is recommended, with a soil depth of 42 inches. Soil volumes will vary due to constraints such as existing utility trenches, and infrastructure offset requirements, and foundations. Where possible, soil trenches between trees should connect to one another, effectively expanding the amount of soil available to adjacent trees. Soil Cells – Soil Cells, ex. Silva Cells, are a suspended pavement system and are recommended for use behind the curb in order to provide trees with an expanded soil volume. This results in larger trees which are able to better shade streets and intercept rain before it runs off into stormwater systems. Where permeable paving systems are proposed, tree roots in soil cells create a porous soil that assists with treating and infiltrating stormwater. It is possible to integrate the cells with both existing and proposed utilities. Mulch – Tree wells are to be covered with a three-inch layer of aged compost to assist in retaining water and to prevent temperatures from rising, helping to reduce irrigation demand. Tree grates – Tree grates are required. See Section 5.4 Street Furnishings for tree grate information. Manufacturer is to remove inner rings from grate to provide adequate space for tree trunk to grow freely without encountering resistance. Grates are to be ordered with holes provided for tree stakes to avoid having to install stake in grate opening over the tree root ball. Request lids to cover holes when tree stakes are removed. Tree stakes – Use non-treated wooden three-stake arrangement and tree ties are to be provided. Root barriers – Root barriers are required when tree is within five feet of pavement. 4 Cubic Yards 12 Cubic Yards 20 Cubic Yards of Soil of Soil of Soil Tree canopy in relation to provided soil volume Suspended pavement systems allow for expanded soil volumes for tree roots 63 Irrigation All street trees should receive two bubblers at the rootball. If soil volume extends beyond the tree well, for example through the use of soil cells, drip irrigation is to also be provided. In preparing planting and irrigation designs, anticipate the use of recycled water, even if not immediately available at the time of installation. Location Trees are to be planted at the back of curb in the furnishing zone to allow for a clear pedestrian path of travel in the sidewalk throughway and to help buffer traffic and pedestrians. Space trees every 10-30 feet for mature growth (see pages 67-71 for spacing by species) with the intent of providing a continuous canopy. Allow for flexibility to accommodate a greater number of trees planted if a typical spacing is not achievable. Early on in the design process, discuss and agree with City Staff on the canopy goals and desired tree spacing. Tree locations are to take into consideration City guidelines and required offsets from sightlines, street lights, and utilities and furnishings. Adjacent to parking spaces, locate tree wells a minimum of 18 inches from the face of curb to allow for passengers to enter and exit vehicles easily. Avoid locating trees in front of ADA parking spaces and in bus drop-off and pick-up zones where ADA ramp deployment space is necessary. Typical offsets include: • • • • • • • Traffic and stop-controlled intersection (near side) – 20 feet Traffic and stop-controlled intersection (far side) – 5 feet Driveways – 5 feet Utilities – 5 feet from the utility lateral center line Vaults – 5 feet or vault door openings, whichever is greater Street lights – 10 feet Street furnishings – 3 feet In medians, propose large trees in the non-turn pocket areas. Where turn pockets narrow the median, use columnar and upright trees which are better suited to smaller constrained spaces. Understory Plantings Understory plantings soften the appearance of a downtown where hardscape is often the dominant surfacing. In addition to their beauty, understory plantings provide multiple benefits – reducing stormwater runoff, providing habitat, and helping to calm traffic. In the Downtown district, limit understory planting to medians, bulb-outs, and stormwater treatment areas, in an effort to maximize space for pedestrians on sidewalks that in their existing conditions are narrow in width. At-grade planting in planter strips or tree wells within the furnishing zone may be acceptable pending approval and an approved maintenance plan by the City prior to installation. All pl anting beds must take into consideration any step-out zone required for parked cars. 64 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Selection and Location Use drought tolerant, native, and climate-appropriate species. Select plants that will attain a natural form without pruning and shearing to achieve a desired shape. For safety and visibility, use species that do not surpass 36 inches in height. Irrigate all understory planting and ensure species are tolerant of recycled water. The low and medium-size shrubs, perennials and stormwater plants provide a common palette and should be selected to fit the area to be planted. Low shrubs and perennials are appropriate in all locations and are ideal at corners, intersections, mid-block crossings, where pedestrian visibility is critical, and sightlines are to be maintained. Larger plants are more appropriate for medians and sidewalk planting areas where widths are greater and in scale with their size. Raised Plants and Potted Plants Raised planters and potted plants are permitted if irrigated and if they do not block the pedestrian throughway in the sidewalk. Where vaults are located in planting beds, provide sufficient space to accommodate vault doors when open. Hanging Baskets Hanging baskets, if used continuously along an entire street, can reinforce a sense of arrival and destination. Downtown Dublin should evaluate the use of hanging baskets on slower commercial streets such as Village Parkway, Amador Plaza Road, and Regional Street. Implement hanging baskets only if a robust maintenance plan is in place given the amount of attention required on a seasonal basis to replace plants and maintain their visual appeal. Example of median planting At-Grade Planter Design Each planter design should be bold in approach, relying on broad swaths and drifts of similar plant species. Where multiple species are proposed in the same median or planter, design using species of a similar color palette to maintain consistency. Avoid deciduous understory plants and plants that require shearing. Provide a 20-inch maintenance strip of permeable pavers around planting beds in medians. Design stormwater planting palettes to minimize species complexity to avoid small messy areas. Species included in bioretention areas should be adapted for dry conditions with some intermittent ponding and are to be tolerant of recycled water. Propose aged compost as mulch which retains moisture, adds nutrients to the soil, and does not heat up. Example of potted plants Hanging baskets provide added color and character to a street 65 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Species: Acer rubrum ‘Armstrong’ Common Name: Red Maple Size: 40’ H x 30’ W Form: Rounded to oval Characteristics: Deciduous. Orange red fall foliage color. Spacing: 25’ WUCOLS: Moderate Species: Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’ Common Name: Columnar Hornbeam Size: 30’ H x 20’ W Form: Columnar or oval-shaped Characteristics: Deciduous. Yellow to orange fall foliage color, smooth gray bark with distinctive fluting. Spacing: 15’ WUCOLS: Moderate Species: Cercis canadensis Common Name: Eastern Redbud Size: 15’ H x 15’ W Form: Rounded Characteristics: Deciduous. Rose-purple flowers in spring. Spacing: 10’ WUCOLS: Moderate 66 Trees Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Species: Gleditisia triacanthos inermis ‘Shademaster’ Common Name: Thornless Honey Locust Size: 45’H x 35’ W Form: Oval or Umbrella Shape Characteristics: Deciduous. Yellow fall foliage color. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Low Species: Koelreuteria paniculata Common Name: Golden Rain Tree Size: 30’ H x 35’ W Form: Round Characteristics: Deciduous. Showy yellow flowers and attractive reddish seed pods. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Moderate Species: Lagerstroemia x indica sp. Common Name: Crape Myrtle Size: 10’ H x 10’ W Form: Rounded, umbrella or vase shape. Characteristics: Deciduous. Showy flowers in summer. Red foliage in the fall. Spacing: 10’ WUCOLS: Low 67 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Species: Lagunaria pattersonii Common Name: Primrose Tree Size: 30’ H x 30’ W Form: Oval Characteristics: Evergreen. Pink star-shaped flowers. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Low Species: Pistacia chinensis Common Name: Chinese Pistache Size: 25’ H x 25’ W Form: Rounded Characteristics: Deciduous. Fall color in shades of yellow, orange and red. Spacing: 20’ WUCOLS: Low Species: Platanus x acerifolia Common Name: London Plane Tree Size: 75’ H x 60’ W Form: Rounded to oval Characteristics: Deciduous. Brown bark exfoliates in irregular pieces to reveal creamy white inner bark. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Moderate 68 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Species: Quercus coccinea Common Name: Scarlet Oak Size: 70’ H x 50’ W Form: Pyramidal Characteristics: Deciduous. Scarlet foliage color in fall. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Moderate Species: Quercus virginiana Common Name: Southern Live Oak Size: 40’ H x 60’W Form: Rounded Characteristics: Evergreen. Showy brown acorn and attractive green foliage. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Moderate Species: Ulmus parvifolia Common Name: Chinese Evergreen Elm Size: 40’ H x 50’ W Form: Rounded, umbrella shape Characteristics: Partly deciduous. Multi- colored, mottled bark. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Low 69 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Species: Zelkova serrata ‘Musashino’ Common Name: Musashino Zelkova Size: 40’ H x 10’ W Form: Upright and columnar Characteristics: Deciduous. Red to yellow-orange foliage color in the fall. Spacing: 10-15’ WUCOLS: Moderate Species: Zelkova serrata Common Name: Zelkova Size: 50’ H x 50’ W Form: Rounded, umbrella shape Characteristics: Deciduous. Red to yellow-orange foliage color in the fall. Spacing: 30’ WUCOLS: Moderate 70 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Medium Sized Shrubs Anigozanthos spp. Kangaroo paw Size: 2-6ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Low Arctostaphylos densiflora ‘Harmony’ Harmony manzanita Size: 3 -4ft x 6ft WUCOLS: Low Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Callistemon viridiflorus Callistemon ‘Little John’ Little John Bottlebrush Size: 3-5ft x 3-5ft WUCOLS: Low Foerster ’ Foerster ’s feather reed Grass Size:2-3ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Moderate ‘Xera Compact’ Green bottlebrush Size: 3 -4ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Unknown Dietes bicolor Fortnight lily Size: 2-3ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Low Dietes iridiodes Fortnight lily Size: 3ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Low Epilobium canum California fuchsia Size: 3ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Low Muhlenbergia rigens Deergrass Size: 4-5ft x 4-5ft WUCOLS: Low Pittosporum tobira ‘Wheeler ’s Dwarf’ Wheeler ’s Dwarf Mock Orange Size: 2ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Low 71 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Low Shrubs and Perennials Correa ‘Dusky Bells’ Australian fuchsia Size: 1-2ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Low Frangula californica ‘Seaview’ Seaview coffeeberry Size: 2-3ft x 6ft WUCOLS: Low Achillea millefolium Yarrow (CA native cultivars) Size: 2ft x 2 -3ft WUCOLS: Low Calandrinia spp. Rock Purslane Size: 1ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Low Ceanothus gloriosus Point Reyes Creeper Size: 2ft x 6ft WUCOLS: Low Grevillea lanigera Prostrate Prostrate woolly grevillea Size: 2’ x 4’ WUCOLS: Low Lantana ‘New Gold’ New Gold Lantana Size: 2ft x 6ft WUCOLS: Unknown Lomandra longifolia ‘Breeze’ Spiny Headed Mat Rush Size: 2-3ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Low Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Mozart’ Mozart rosemary Size: 2-3ft x 4-6ft WUCOLS: Low 72 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Stormwater Plants Carex divulsa Berkeley Sedge Size: 1.5ft x 2ft WUCOLS: Low Chondropetalum tectorum Cape rush Size: 3ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Low Epilobium canum California fuchsia Size: 1ft x4ft WUCOLS: Low Fragaria chiloensis Strawberry Size: 6in x spreading WUCOLS: Moderate Frangula californica Coffeeberry Size: 3ft x 6ft WUCOLS: Low Iris douglasiana Douglas Iris Size: 1-2ft x 2-3ft WUCOLS: Low Juncus patens California Gray Rush Size: 1-2ft x 1-2ft WUCOLS: Low Lavandula spp. Lavender Size: 1.5ft x 1.5ft WUCOLS: Low Leymus triticoides Creeping Wild Rye Size: 3ft x 1ft WUCOLS: Low Mimulus aurantiacus Monkeyflower Size: 3-4ft x3ft WUCOLS: Very Low Muhlenbergia rigens Deergrass Size: 3ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Low Pittosporum tobira ‘Wheeler ’s Dwarf’ Wheeler ’s Dwarf Mock Orange Size: 2ft x 3ft WUCOLS: Low 73 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 6.2 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE Green infrastructure refers to a set of landscape and engineering techniques used to reduce stormwater runoff and the square footage of non-porous material while cleansing stormwater locally and alleviating flooding in downstream stormwater infrastructure. Examples of streetscape green infrastructure include stormwater planters, and porous pavement. Stormwater runoff is slowed as it flows through these specially designed systems, removing pollutants such as sediment, trash, and motor oil, before stormwater runoff is discharged to the storm drain system, local creeks, and ultimately San Francisco Bay. Pollutants in the stormwater runoff are removed by the soil and plants in green infrastructure systems. In addition to ecological benefits, green infrastructure enhances the pedestrian experience and the visual appearance of a street, providing greenery, shade, color, and change of season through flowers and leaves. These characteristics enhance the sense of place and help reinforce a Downtown’s identity. At the start of each streetscape project design, a Geotechnical Report that details soil conditions and the soil’s ability to accept and infiltrate runoff will be required, as well as consideration for which of the Best Management Practices (BMPs) below are appropriate for the project site. Refer to the City’s Green Infrastructure guidelines for the most current requirements. Development within Downtown will be required to follow the City’s standards for Green Infrastructure as they apply to a project’s site. Stormwater planters at bulb-outs capture runoff before entering the storm drain system Seating areas and stormwater planters define intersection corners in Healdsburg, CA 74 Inlet collects surface water flowing in the street gutter. Freeboard Detention Stormdrain Stormwater is cleansed as it flows through the planter and filters down to the subgrade drain Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Components of a green infrastructure system may include: Flow Through Planters • Flow through planters are a vegetated approach to treating stormwater, typically in contained concrete “boxes” located behind the curb in bulb outs, furnishing zones, or medians. Stormwater runoff flows through an opening in the curb face, where it collects in the planter, is treated, and infiltrates either into the soil, or is detained for a slow release through an underdrain. Flow through planters allow for pollutants and debris to settle out of the stormwater before infiltration or release. If there is parking, ensure that a step-out zone separates the planter from the curb face. Permeable Pavers Permeable interlocking concrete pavers can be used for stormwater treatment. Stormwater hits the pavement, passing through the paver joints rather than running off untreated into gutters and the storm drain system. Water percolates through a rock base which acts as a reservoir and stores water in the porous space between rocks as the water infiltrates into and is cleaned by a soil subbase. The pavers can also be used for stormwater detention. If the soil is not suitable for infiltration, a drainage system can be installed to collect water that does not infiltrate and carry it back to a storm drain system. In this case, the permeable paver system acts as a reservoir slowing the movement of water downstream and not overloading the storm drain system. Compared with stormwater planters, permeable pavers can potentially reduce maintenance costs if planting and soils require more frequent maintenance and replacement. Permeable pavers can be used in the accent band of the sidewalk following the Golden Gate Drive pattern, parking aisles, and roadways and intersections depending upon speeds and use. Aesthetically, the color and texture of permeable pavers provides an enhancement over standard concrete or asphalt. • Example of a bulb-out used to capture stormwater runoff Green Infrastructure Maintenance When deciding which green infrastructure solution to implement, evaluation of the short and long-term maintenance requirements is needed to ensure that these factors and life costs are incorporated into a project’s budget. Example of a flow through planter 75 Permeable pavers allow water to infiltrate soils or be conveyed to a storm drain system Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan 6.3 UTILITIES Locate utility lids and vaults in clustered groups to reduce their footprint within the sidewalk and to limit their impact on the placement of trees and street amenities. Position these clustered groups where trees are not allowed such as near street corners and adjacent to streetlight poles. Align proposed utilities perpendicular to the curb and at the back of the curb. If possible, relocate existing utility lids and vaults to the back of curb. This will open up opportunities for trees and planting, creating a greener and more sustainable street. When required or advantageous, relocate existing utilities to facilitate an improved streetscape design that maximizes space for trees and improves the pedestrian experience. Project owners are responsible for the costs associated with relocating existing utilities, as required by their project. Example of utility boxes grouped together to reduce visual clutter in the sidewalk 76 Example of an above ground utility box integrated into the streetscape THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK 7. MAGNITUDE OF COSTS THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Pavement replacement Sidewalk and median pavement improvements include interlocking concrete pavers, concrete paving, and sub-base. $25-$35/sf (Interlocking concrete pavers, pedestrian) $18-$20/sf (Concrete) Bulb-out Bulb-out improvements include new curb and gutter, pavement improvements, drainage, and stormwater planting. Amenities such as furnishings or art are listed separately below. $25,000 -$35,000 (Bulb-out) Site furnishings Site furnishings include: -Benches - 4’ x 8’ tree grates -Bike racks - Bus shelters -Trash, recycling, and compost receptacles $3,000-$4,000 (Bench) $1,000-$1,500 (Bike rack) $2,000-$2,500 (Trash/recycling/ compost receptacle) $5,000 (Tree grate) $15,000-$25,000 (Bus shelter) Stormwater treatment Stormwater treatment includes the cost to introduce a stormwater planter area at a corner bulb- out or install a flow through planters behind the curb. The cost includes piping and drain within the stormwater planter. $400-$500/lf (Stormwater planter) Tree replacement Tree replacement includes the cost to install a 24" box tree with soil and staking. Cost excludes tree grate (see above) and irrigation. $3,000 (Tree replacement) Silva Cells Silva Cell costs will vary based on the number of cells proposed for each tree. This cost range includes 6 cells per tree, including excavation, labor and materials, sub-base and base course over the cells. It excludes paving, tree or soil. $7,500 - $12,000 (Silva cells per tree) Art Art installation costs are dependent upon the art medium, size, and installation method. Installation can include impressions in concrete, to large sculptures located in the median. $5,000 - $100,000+ (Allowance) Gateways Gateways range from paving improvements in the intersection to the installation of vertical columns, or an archway (see below). Vertical gateway columns include internal illumination. $45/sf (Interlocking concrete pavers in intersection) $20-35/sf (Stamped AC, colored) $50,000-$75,000 (Vertical gateway column) Archway An archway includes the installation of a gateway arch that spans the intersection of Dublin Blvd and Village Parkway. Art-themed design with a shamrock is included. $300,000 (Allowance) Lighting Lighting costs include vehicular lighting and pedestrian lighting with banner arms as well as twinkle lights. Costs vary based on spacing of light poles, style, and size. Cost of electrical infrastructure varies based on conduit runs. For twinkle lights, assume power is available. $12,000-$18,000 (Roadway light pole and fixture) $10,000-$15,000 (Pedestrian light pole and fixture) $2,000 (Twinkle light per tree) 80 PROJECT TYPE ESTIMATED COST RANGE / ALLOWANCE TIER 1 & 2 IMPROVEMENTS Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan Mid-block crossing Mid-block crossing includes the cost to install bulb-outs on opposite sides of the street and provide high visibility or enhanced paving in the crosswalk. $60,000-$75,000 (Bulb-outs on opposite sides of the street with curb and gutter, curb ramp, paving) Crosswalk costs: $2,000/crosswalk striping (Paint) $30-$40/sf (Interlocking concrete pavers) $15-$20/sf (Concrete) Wayfinding Identity signage and directional signage similar in appearance and size to those currently Downtown. Costs include illuminated kiosks. $5,000 (Directional signage) $10,000-$15,000 (Identity signage) $30,000 (Kiosk) Temporary Art Temporary art installations assume minimal disturbance to the existing median or sidewalks. Art media can vary and will impact cost. $500-$20,000 (Allowance) Painted Crossings and Intersections Painted crossings and intersections include the painting of asphalt. Intersection painting requires a traffic rerouting plan. $5,000-$7,500 (Intersection) $2,000 (Crosswalk) Parklet Parklet costs are based on the size of reclaiming one parking stall. Materials and design will result in a range of costs. $10,000 - $25,000 Street closure Street closures costs include power, barricades, portable toilets. Excludes traffic rerouting plans. $10,000-$20,000 Pole attachments Pole attachments include banners and LED lights mounted to a pole. $2,000-$3,500 (Attachment per pole) Village Parkway (R.O.W. = 100ft) Cost includes undergrounding utilities new curb and gutter, new roadway surfacing, new sidewalk paving, furnishings, lighting, traffic, street trees, ground planting, stormwater planting, irrigation, and artwork. $23 million ($11,200/lf) Regional Street (R.O.W. = 68ft) Cost includes new curb and gutter, new roadway surfacing, new sidewalk paving, furnishings, lighting, traffic, street trees, ground planting, stormwater planting, irrigation, and artwork. $18 million ($8,400/lf) Notes: 1. Costs provided are 2019 estimates intended to help prioritize the decision- making process and are not intended to be used for construction budget purposes. 2. It is recommended that a cost estimator provide a cost estimate based on construction drawings prepared by the City of Dublin or a design consultant and reviewed by all relevant agencies. 3. Costs include labor, materials, and overhead. 4. Utility replacement and relocation costs are excluded from cost estimates. 82 TIER 3 IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT TYPE ESTIMATED COST RANGE / ALLOWANCE 81 Downtown Dublin Streetscape Plan ACKNOWLEDGMENTS CITY COUNCIL David Haubert, Mayor Melissa Hernandez, Vice Mayor Arun Goel, Councilmember Jean Josey, Councilmember Shawn Kumagai, Councilmember CITY STAFF Amy Million, Principal Planner Jeff Baker, Community Development Director Laurie Sucgang, City Engineer/Assistant Public Works Director Andrew Russell, Public Works Director Obaid Khan, Transportation and Operations Manager CONSULTING TEAM RHAA Landscape Architecture & Planning BKF Engineers Fehr & Peers 82 Prepared by RHAA 323 Geary Street San Francisco, California 94102 CITY OF DUBLIN Landscape Architects and Planners 100 CIVIC PLAZA DUBLIN, CALIFORNIA 94568 City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan Page 1 June 7, 2005 Chapter 1: Plan Overview: Goals, Opportunities, and Constraints Definition: Streetscape All landscape and hardscape improvements constructed in the public right-of-way (excluding Downtown Dublin) that provide a backdrop for pedestrians on the sidewalk as well as vehicles on the street. Landscape improvements include plan ting in the street median, parkway strips between the sidewalk and street, and planting behind the sidewalk to the property line. Hardscape improvements include entry monuments, pedestrian cro sswalks, sidewalks, and street furniture such as trash receptac les, tree grates, bollards, benches, and light fixtures. Background The City of Dublin, incorporated in 1982, inherited a street system and street landscaping plan from Alameda County that was aesthetically inconsistent. In the past ten years in particul ar, the City has spent a vast amount of time and community resources to upgrade the existing street plantings, design new medians and pedestrian walkways, place new public art pieces in key loc ations, install new bus shelters, trash receptacles, street fur niture, and improve the overall look of Dublin’s streets. In addition to recent improvements, there are several additional streetscape features that will be installed over the next several years. New public art pieces will be installed in the City and the Village Parkway corridor will benefit from new pedestrian level lighting, widened sidewalks, and decorative paving. As the City has grown, private development has also brought life to Dublin’s streets. New residential and commercial neighborhoods that have been built are a testament to how attractive landscaping adds to a community. In new developments throughout Dublin, there was an opportunity to design the streetscape as an integral element to the project. The result provides a basis for a heal thy, mature, attractive streetscape for many years to come. As Dublin has evolved, it has become clear that although streetscape design within neighborhoods or commercial districts can vary from one to another, it is important for the streets that tie those districts together have a common streetscape palette to provide consistency between areas. For instance, although the benches along the Village Parkway corridor will likely be a different style from the benches installed in the Historic District, the b enches along the City’s main streets that tie the districts together should be consistent from one end to the next. Goals of the Streetscape Master Plan Although Dublin has had many successes in creating attractive streetscape designs, the City has not adopted a formalized plan to guide the continuation of good streetscape design in the public right of way. The goals and intent of the Streetscape Master Plan are to: 1 Recognize and formalize the City’s existing landscape and tree planting program; 2 Strengthen, clarify, and unify the City’s streetscape furnishings palette; 3 Provide opportunities for creating attractive entries into the City; City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan Page 10 June 7, 2005 Monument signage Existing conditions Recommendation Install the proposed City of Dublin Monument sign in the median at key gateways to the City: San Ramon Road at Dublin Boulevard Dougherty Road at Dublin Boulevard Hacienda Drive at Dublin Boulevard Tassajara Road at Dublin Boulevard Fallon Road at Dublin Boulevard San Ramon Road at the northern entry to City Village Parkway at the northern entry to City Dougherty Road at the northern entry to City Tassajara Road at the northern entry to the City Dublin Boulevard at Schaefer Ranch and in EDPO Over time, the existing monument signage can be removed and replaced with the proposed design, which still needs to be detailed and fabricated. The design shown below left, which was reviewed by the City Council in November, 1999, is conceptual only and will need to be refined and fabricated before it is installed. Proposed design Proposed granite City of Dublin monument sign. Simple, yet more refined and updated from the existing signs. Similar in design and materials to the identification sign at Emerald Glen Park. Existing monument sign installed at Village Parkway near northern border, at Dougherty Road near Dublin Blvd., and San Ramon Road near Dublin Blvd. City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan Page 24 June 7, 2005 Section 2: Existing Street Tree planting locations and recommended changes The following table notes the planting palette for each of the City’s major streets and makes recommendations on w hether the planting palette should continue as is or be changed in any way. The goal of the recommended changes is to ensure that a healthy street tree canopy matures over time and that the theme of growing a strong, fall color, and statuesque large cano py tree on the City’s main east-west arterial (Dublin Boulevard) and a delicate, flowering tree full of spring color on the main north -south streets is continued. Street Existing Conditions Recommendation Amador Plaza Road Parkway: Ornamental pear at 30’ on center Median: No median None Amador Valley Boulevard Dougherty Road to Stagecoach Road Parkway: Mix of Raywood Ash, London Plane, coast redwood, and coast live oak Median: Canary Island Pine and Crape Myrtle Infill parkway with more Raywood Ash where possible Amador Valley Boulevard Stagecoach Road to Burton Street Parkway: Sweet gum Median: Sweet gum and Crape Myrtle Sweet gum is not suitable for sidewalk tree wells. Replace with Purple-leafed plum or honey locust over time. Amador Valley Boulevard Burton Street to Village Parkway Parkway: Sweet gum Median: Crape Myrtle Sweet gum is not suitable for sidewalk tree wells. Replace with Purple-leafed plum over time Amador Valley Boulevard Village Parkway to San Ramon Road Parkway: London Plane Median: Crape Myrtle None Arnold Drive Parkway: Coast Live Oak at 30’ on center (east side) and Southern Live Oak (west side) Median: No median None Brannigan Street Parkway: Pistache on 45’ staggered centers Pistache is too widely spaced and too small for this street. Insert additional Pistache between existing trees where possible. Central Parkway Arnold Drive to Hacienda Drive Parkway: Chinese hackberry and Ash at 20’ on center Median: Chinese hackberry at 20’ on staggered centers, Callery Pear clustered at intersections None Central Parkway Hacienda Drive to Tassajara Road Parkway: Callery Pear and Chinese Hackberry at 20’ on center (south side) and Red Oak at 36’ on center (north side) as well as Chinese Hackberry and Ornamental Pear. Coast redwood planted occasionally. Median: Chinese Hackberry at 30’ on center and Callery pear clustered at intersections. None Central Parkway Tassajara Road to Chancery Lane Parkway: Common Hackberry at 26 ‘ on center, straddling the sidewalk Median: Common Hackberry at 30’ on center Common Hackberry in the median are not establishing well. Investigate the condition to see if replacement with another species (i.e. Chinese hackberry) would be appropriate. City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan Page 25 June 7, 2005 Street Existing Conditions Recommendation Central Parkway Chancery Lane to Grafton Street Parkway: Common Hackberry at 26 ‘ on center, straddling the sidewalk (north side), Common Hackberry at 30’ on center (south side) Median: Callery Pear at 15’ on center and Common Hackberry None Central Parkway Grafton Street to Keegan Street Parkway: Common Hackberry at 26 ‘ on center, straddling the sidewalk (north side), Common Hackberry at 30’ on center (south side) Median: Common Hackberry at 30’ on center and Callery Pear None Central Parkway Keegan Street to future points east (Lockhart Lane, Fallon Road) Parkway: Common Hackberry (optimal spacing to be determined) Median: Callery Pear (optimal spacing to be determined) None Chancery Lane Parkway: Scarlett Oak at 45’ on staggered centers, straddling sidewalk Median: None None Dublin Boulevard Donlon Way to San Ramon Road Parkway: London Plane (south side) Median: Crape Myrtle Continue planting of London Plane trees at an ideal spacing of 25-30’ on center. Ideally use 4’x8’ tree grates for all new plantings and plan to retrofit existing 4’x4’ grates. Median planting is ideally a combination of London Plane trees to provide a canopy and a smaller, flowering tree to provide color and visual interest. Dublin Boulevard San Ramon Road to Amador Plaza Road Parkway: London Plane Median: London Plane and Crape Myrtle See above. Dublin Boulevard Amador Plaza Road to Alamo Creek Parkway: London Plane and a few Callery Pear Median: London Plane and Crape Myrtle See above. Dublin Boulevard Alamo Creek to Dougherty Road Parkway: London Plane Median: London Plane See above. Dublin Boulevard Dougherty Road to Scarlett Drive Parkway: London Plane Median: Crape Myrtle See above. Dublin Boulevard Scarlett Drive to Arnold Drive Parkway: London Plane at 25’-30’ on center Median: Washington Thorn and a double row of Callery Pear See above. Dublin Boulevard Arnold Drive to Tassajara Road Parkway: London Plane Median: Washington Thorm and a double row of Callery Pear See above. Dublin Boulevard Tassajara Road to future points east (Lockhart Lane, Fallon Road) Parkway: London Plane Median: London Plane and Callery Pear See above. City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan Page 27 June 7, 2005 Street Existing Conditions Recommendation North Dublin Ranch Drive/South Dublin Ranch Drive Parkway: London Plane at 25’ on staggered centers (outside the public right of way on HOA property) which straddle sidewalk Median: Callery Pear None Regional Street Parkway: Callery Pear at 30’ on center Median: None None San Ramon Road Dublin Boulevard Amador Valley Boulevard to Shannon Avenue Parkway: Callery Pear, Chinese Pistache, and intermittent California Pepper Median: Raywood Ash, Crape Myrtle, and Strawberry Tree None San Ramon Road Shannon Avenue to Northern City limit Parkway: Callery Pear and intermittent African Sumac Median: Raywood Ash, Crape Myrtle, and Strawberry Tree None Silvergate Drive Parkway: None Median: Camphor, Coast Redwood, and Callery Pear Add small scale planting such as Crape Myrtle in the median where feasible Tassajara Road Dublin Boulevard to Gleason Drive Parkway: Callery Pear Median: Callery Pear and Coast Live Oak Callery Pear is not a large enough tree for this size of a roadway. Introduce additional Coast Live Oak in the median between Dublin Boulevard and Central Parkway Tassajara Road Gleason Drive to Northern City limit Parkway: Coast Live Oak, Callery Pear, and Sweetgum Median: Callery Pear, informal groupings of Coast Live Oak, Chinese Pistache, and Ash None. Village Parkway Dublin Boulevard to Amador Valley Boulevard Parkway: Callery Pear Median: Crape Myrtle, Purple-Leaf Plum, and Eastern Redbud clustered at intersection of Lewis and Village Parkway Callery Pear is not a unique enough tree to use on Village Parkway, which should have a unique pedestrian feel. Infill parkway tree wells with a contrasting color tree such as a Columnar Hornbeam in groups of 3 or 4 on 12’ centers if possible Village Parkway Amador Valley Boulevard to Northern City limit Parkway: Callery Pear Median: Crape Myrtle at 50’ on center and Purple-Leaf Plum See above. Planting Notes: 1. Bradford Pear has been widely used throughout the City and in the west in particular. The tree has done well in most places but should not continue to be used. The species is prone to fireblight that could potentially eliminate the entire population. The Bradford Pear should be replaced with Yoshino Flowering Cherry as new installations occur. The two are similar in form and flower, so the north-south flowering tree theme can be maintained. 2. Sweetgum has been installed in narrow sidewalk planters in some locations. This is a water -loving tree and should not be planted in constricted areas. Use in tree wells should be discontinued and should be used in medians only. 3. Dougherty Road is an opportunity to create a striking new planting scheme when it is widened per planned improvements. The existing row of London Plane trees on the eastern side of the road merits the use of a picturesque, delicate, flowering tree in the future median to est ablish the design of the street and continue the north-south flowering tree theme. 4. Chinese hackberry are experiencing some health issues in Dublin Ranch. An arborist should be consulted. 5. Camphor trees on Gleason Drive look stunted and weakly. This could be because of poorly drained soils. The tree should be replaced and not be used as a street tree in the future. 6. The strawberry tree can be messy and should continue to be used in medians only. City of Dublin Streetscape Master Plan Page 33 June 7, 2005 Policy Section 2: Gateway Treatments The following intersections are considered key gateway entrances into the City of Dublin. Enhanced landscaping, “City of Dublin” monument signage, widened medians and special m edian treatment, possible placement of public art, and the careful orientation of buildings to the intersection shall all be considered to draw attention to these gateway areas: San Ramon Road at Dublin Boulevard Dougherty Road at Dublin Boulevard Hacienda Drive at Dublin Boulevard Tassajara Road at Dublin Boulevard Fallon Road at Dublin Boulevard San Ramon Road at the northern city limits Village Parkway at the northern city limits Dougherty Road at the northern city limits Tassajara Road at the northern city limits Dublin Boulevard at the western city limits (Schaefer Ranch) Dublin Boulevard at the eastern city limits (East Dublin Property Owners/Fallon Village) Implementation Suggestion: Street medians at future gateway intersections should be of sufficient width (a minimum of 10 feet unless otherwise approved) to allow for enhanced landscape and entry monumentation. Policy Section 3: Streetscape Furnishing, Planting Standards, and Maintenance It is the goal of the following policies to coordinate the design and installation of streetscape improvements with other uses along the public right-of-way and to maintain Dublin’s streetscape planting so that it grows and develops over time into a healt hy, mature landscape that is an amenity to the City and its residents. Implementation Suggestions: 1. Street trees shall be planted in the public service easement, public right-of-way, or in a parkway strip, and not on private property, if at all possible, and shall be maintained by a homeowners association or by the City of Dublin as appropriate. 2. If a required street tree is planted on private property, the property owner shall be responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the street tree. Should the tree be removed from its location, a replacement tree of the same type and size shall be planted elsewhere in the front yard area of the private property. In addition, the requirement to maintain the street tree shall be included in the Covenants, Codes, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) for the development and shall be included as a deed restriction on the homeowner’s property. 3. As new commercial and residential neighborhoods are constructed in Dublin, it shall be the responsibility of the developer to install street tree plantings and street furnishings in the adjacent public right of way as specified by this document. If the project has frontage onto Dublin Boulevard, the developer shall also be responsible for installing the proposed Dublin Boulevard Identity Markers in suitable median locations. If the project is adjacent to a City gateway, the developer shall be responsible for installing a City monument sign.