Title
Ordinance Amending the Connections 2025 Comprehensive Plan, Incorporated by Reference in the Greensboro Code of Ordinances Chapter 30, Section 30-1-10 - Lawndale Drive Corridor Plan, Phase I
Body
Department: Planning
Council District: 3
Public Hearing: April 7, 2015
Advertising Date/By: March 26 and April 2, 2015 by City Clerk
Contact 1 and Phone: Sue Schwartz, 373-2149
Contact 2 and Phone: Hanna Cockburn, 574-3576
PURPOSE:
Conduct a public hearing to consider adoption of the Lawndale Drive Corridor Plan, Phase I as proposed for property located in the Lawndale Drive Phase I planning area.
BACKGROUND:
In April 2013, the City Council authorized a study of a 3.6 mile segment of Lawndale Drive between Cornwallis Drive and the future interchange with the Urban Loop in the area of Cotswold Avenue. The primary objectives of the corridor study is the development of a shared vision for the future character of the corridor, and creation of tools and strategies that support stability in adjacent neighborhoods while accommodating quality growth along the Lawndale Drive corridor. An existing conditions report of the entire corridor was completed in July 2013, which recommended the completion of in-depth studies of the corridor in four phases. Work with stakeholders in the first phase was initiated in August 2013, covering properties along the section of Lawndale Drive between Cornwallis Drive to Cone Boulevard.
The Planning Board conducted a public hearing on the draft plan on February 18, 2015. Three speakers provided comments in support of the plan, specifically regarding redevelopment opportunities in the area, the significance of the A&Y Greenway, the need to explore strategies to preserve the tree canopy along Lawndale Drive, and ways to accommodate cycling on Lawndale Drive. Following the hearing, Planning Board unanimously recommended adoption of the plan with a note emphasizing the Board's interest in exploring Lawndale Drive as a prime candidate for cycling improvements like protected bike lanes. Minutes of the February Planning Board meeting are attached.
BUDGET IMPACT:
None.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
The recommendations for the Phase I Target Area focus on refining existing policies to provide finer-grain guidance for future investments in the corridor. Recommendations were developed to work in coordination with the City's Comprehensive Plan, Connections 2025. Recommendations have been made in three categories:
· Preserve and Maintain Compatibility
· Preserve and Enhance the Tree Canopy
· Enhance Non-Motorized Amenities
This plan builds on and supports the following Connections 2025 objectives:
· Preserving Community Character (Policy 5E, 5F)
· Improving the transportation network (Policy 8A, 8F)
· Improving neighborhood resources (Policy 9C, 9D, 9E, 9F)
A copy of the draft plan is attached.
Staff recommends approval of the Lawndale Drive Corridor Plan, Phase I.