HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Committees - Land Use and Planning Board - 05/28/2013 ECONOMIC and COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Ben Wolters, Director
PLANNING DIVISION
Fred N. Satterstrom, AICP, Planning Director
• Charlene Anderson, AICP, Manager
� KENT Phone: 253-856-5454
wAs III. ,o14
Fax: 253-856-6454
Address: 220 Fourth Avenue S
Kent, WA 98032-5895
AGENDA
LAND USE & PLANNING BOARD
WORKSHOP
SPECIAL DATE: TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2013
7:00 P.M.
LUPB MEMBERS: Jack Ottini, Chair; Barbara Phillips, Vice Chair; Frank Cornelius,
Steve Dowell, Navdeep Gill, Alan Gray, and Randall Smith
CITY STAFF: Charlene Anderson, AICP, Planning Manager; Gloria Gould-Wessen,
Long-Range Planner; Kathy Hardy, Assistant City Attorney
This is to notify you that the Land Use and Planning Board will hold a Special
Workshop on TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2013 as Monday is a holiday observed by the City
of Kent. The workshop will be held in Kent City Hall, City Council Chambers, at
220 Fourth Avenue S, Kent, WA at 7:00 p.m.
No public testimony is taken at workshops, although the public is welcome to
attend. The workshop agenda will include the following item(s):
1. CPZ/CPA-2012-1 Downtown Subarea Action Plan & Planned Action
Ordinance
This workshop will focus on proposed actions, and the goals and policies that
support them.
You may access the City's website for documents pertaining to the Land Use and Planning Board at:
htto://kentwa.igm 2.com/citizens/Default.asox?DeoartmentlD=1004.
Any person requiring a disability accommodation should contact the City Clerk's Office at (253) 856-5725
in advance. For TDD relay service call the Washington Telecommunications Relay Service at 1-800-833-
6388 or call the City of Kent Planning Division directly at (253) 856-5499 (TDD) or the main line at
(253) 856-5454.
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ECONOMIC and COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Ben Wolters, Director
PLANNING DIVISION
Fred N Satterstrom, AICP, Planning Director
KEN T Charlene Anderson, AICP, Planning Manager
WASH INGTou
Phone: 253-856-5454
Fax: 253-856-6454
Address: 220 Fourth Avenue S.
Kent, WA 98032-5895
May 21, 2013
To: Jack Ottini, Chair and Land Use and Planning Board Members
From: Gloria Gould-Wessen, AICP, GIS Coordinator/Long Range Planner
Subject: Downtown Subarea Action Plan & PAO (CPZ/CPA-2012-1) (KIVA 2120882)
Workshop — May 28, 2013
INTRODUCTION:
The Downtown Subarea Action Plan (DSAP) reflects the character and structure of
Kent's Comprehensive Plan and conforms to the State's Growth Management Act
(GMA). The DSAP also aligns with Puget Sound Regional Council's (PSRC) VISION
2040 and King County's Countywide Planning Policies (CPPs). The DSAP is more
than a policy document. It contains goals and policies, as well as action items for
implementation of the DSAP. The workshop will focus on proposed actions, and the
goals and policies that support them.
SUMMARY:
The DSAP has been presented to the Land Use & Planning Board (LU&PB) in several
previous workshops, three of which were project updates. On May 13, 2013, the
LU&PB considered a series of land use plan amendments and rezones associated
with the DSAP. This meeting will consider the goals, policies, and strategic actions
that identify the implementation strategy for the DSAP. They are organized as
separate elements, much like Kent's Comprehensive Plan, starting with the Land
Use Element, followed by: Urban Design, Housing, Transportation, Parks,
Environmental Sustainability, Public Safety, Utilities, and Economic Development
(see Attach. A). The actions are summarized in a table that provides a timeline for
completion (see Attach. B). The goals, policies, and actions will be incorporated into
the Framework for Downtown chapter. The complete DSAP will be presented at a
June LU&PB workshop.
If there are any questions prior to the workshop, please contact Gloria Gould-
Wessen at 253.856.5441.
GGW/pm S:�Permit�Plan�COMP_PLAN_AMENDMENTS�2012�CPA-2012-1 Downtown�LUPB�05-13-13�Memo.door
Enc: Attach A— DRAFT DSAP Goals, Policies, and Actions
Attach B— DRAFT Actions table
cc: Ben Wolters, ECD Director
Fred Satterstrom,AICP, Planning Director
Charlene Anderson,AICP, Planning Manager
David Galazin and Kathy Hardy,Assistant City Attorneys
File CPZ/CPA-2012-1
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ATTACHMENT A
DRAFT - DSAP GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIC ACTIONS
Note: The following elements are organized in broad categories based on the
State's Growth Management Act (GMA). The responsibilities for implementing the
policies and actions below may involve more than one department.
Land Use Element
Kent is a regional employment center and place where families want'to live and
Downtown has always been the heart of Kent. The vision for Downtown is a dense,
mixed-use urban center with a 'pedestrian first' orientation and a"range of complementary
uses. Downtown Kent will be an extraordinary place for those who live,. work, shop, or
play there.
Overall Goal: To create a well designed, pedestrian-oriented, and economically vibrant
urban center with a mix of uses and activities for.those who live, work, or visit Downtown
Kent.
Policy LU-1: Focus a proportional amount of residential and employment citywide growth
targets into the Urban Center in support of the Countywide Planning Policies and VISION
2040 growth strategy.
Policy LU-2: Encourage medium- and high-density development-in Downtown through
development regulations and design standards to provide an attractive, livable and high-
quality residential mixed-use urban environment;
• Action LU-2.1: Expand the diversity and density of uses in Downtown to support a
vibrant urban environmentand ensure regulatory consistency.
a) Amend the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Plan Map and Zoning Districts Map
to encourage amdiversify of urban uses and building forms.
b) Amend the development regulations to increase allowable building height for
General Commercial Mixed-Use (GC-MU) within Downtown to ensure a more
dense mix of office, retail, and housing options.
• Action LU-2.2: Ensure development regulations support a livable, economically
vibrant, and well designed Downtown.
a.' Revise the Mixed-Use Overlay Development Standards to ensure that the
form of ihfill'development is in keeping with the community's vision,
including minimizing the environmental impacts on adjacent residential uses.
b. Revise the multifamily development regulations to provide viable, urban-style
housing options within Downtown.
c. Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines and development regulations where
appropriate to reduce the visual impact of surface parking along pedestrian
designated streets.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 1
d. Revise the sign regulations to reinforce a pedestrian-oriented urban
streetscape in Downtown (e.g., encourage blade signs, discourage sandwich
board signs).
Urban Desian Element
Downtown Kent is growing with Kent Station and ShoWare Center as examples of 21't
Century Architectural design. The form and function of new public and private investment
in Downtown is guided by policy direction in concert with development standards and
design guidelines. Together they ensure an aesthetically pleasing urban environment that
emphasizes the 'pedestrian first'.
Overall Goal: To create an aesthetically pleasing Downtown where building materials,
details, and scale weave together into a rich architectural fabric; the public realm is
comfortable and safe, projecting a 'pedestrian first' message; and this urban form is
compatible with adjacent neighborhoods.
Policy UD-1: Maintain and enhance a strong 'pedestrian first' character throughout the
Downtown where interest, comfort, and protection from traffic is created through the
design of streets and sidewalks. Where appropriate, add street trees, landscaping, water
features, pedestrian-scaled lighting, street furniture, pavement treatments, or other
softening treatments.
• Action UD-1.1: Apply appropriate Downtown Design Guidelines and updated
development standards to the entire Downtown consistent with the vision.
• Action UD-1.2: Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines 'Pedestrian Plan Overlay' to
guide right-of-way use in a manner that will promote a safe, attractive environment
for both motorized and non-motorized users.
• Action UD-1.3: Review and revise where necessary the programmatic documents
and design manuals"to"ensure pedestrian and bike accessibility within and adjacent
to Downtown is created, enhanced, or preserved.
a)" Develop standards for 'street-seats', identify appropriate locations within the
pedestrian designated streets for their consideration, and establish a process for
interested businesses to expand their business activities into parking spaces
adjacent to their location.
• Action UD-1.4: Strengthen the pedestrian connection between Kent Station and
historic Downtown Kent through good design, public investments, and private
efforts.
a) Install year-round street tree lighting between Kent Station and Historic
Downtown.
b) Add seasonal planters and hanging baskets along 2 n d Avenue between Kent
Station and Historic Downtown.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 2
c) Consider a covered pedestrian walkway along 2nd Avenue between Kent
Station and Historic Downtown to provide a visual draw and weather
protection in an effort to attract pedestrians day or night.
d) Work with Kent Downtown Partnership to ensure businesses and property
owners promote pedestrian-oriented activities and visual interest along 2 n d
Avenue (i.e., generous entries, interesting and changing display windows,
building decoration, and lighting).
• Action UD-1.5: Establish and promote a coordinated design standard for
streetscape elements and lighting (i.e., benches, bike racks, trash containers,
planters).
a) Establish a working group to review existing streetscape `design standards
and revise the standards as necessary,
b) Identify where to apply the streetscape design standards and implement
them through a lasting mechanism.
• Action UD-1.6: Ensure that public streetscapes and"p;rivate properties in Downtown
are well maintained.
a) Establish and commit to a maintenance"standard and schedule for the public
streetscape.
b) Establish an initiative with the private sector to encourage a minimum
maintenance standard of properties.
c) Work with Kent Downtown Partnership to encourage property owners
associated with the organization to renovate and restore their buildings.
Policy UD-2: Consider the relationship of building intensity and design to support visual
interest and pedestrian comfort and safety.
• Action UD-2.1: Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines and development
regulations to promote ground floor building facade treatments and uses that will
generate pedestrian interest and comfort (i.e., large windows, canopies, arcades,
plazas and outdoor seating).
• Action UD-2.2: Encourage the use of durable, high quality building materials to
lower maintenance and replacement needs and ensure the aesthetic appeal of new
development.-
Action UD-2.3: Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines and development
regulations to identify locations for continuous building facades, building setbacks,
and historic preservation.
a) Incorporate design options to ensure the historic architectural character of the
urban pedestrian streetscape is maintained while balancing preservation with
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 3
renovation and redevelopment.
b) Consider the creation of design options to mitigate for the environmental effects
of building height and bulk in areas where commercial mixed-use development
abuts residential neighborhoods.
• Action UD-2.4: Establish development regulations to prohibit the development of
new drive-through businesses located on Class A designated streets identified in the
Design Guidelines.
Policy UD-3: Support connectivity between public spaces and semipublic spaces on
private land in the Urban Center.
Housing Element
Downtown Kent is surrounded by strong residential neighborhoods and the -
industrial/manufacturing center to the north. There is a commitment to create a balance
of housing and jobs within the Urban Center supported by rapid mass transit, local
services, entertainment, and parks. New housing will be stylish with a variety of housing
choices, including apartments, condominiums, and townhouses. People living in
downtown will create a vibrant new neighborhood.
Overall Goal: Provide for well designed and constructed medium- and high-density
residential development that integrates into or is located near commercial activities,
supports a livable pedestrian-oriented urban community, and adds to a variety of housing
types for all income groups and special needs.
Policy H-1: Encourage a Variety of quality urban residential housing types and densities in
the Urban Center.
Policy H-2: Allow residential uses to occur in mixed-use structures or complexes or as
stand-alone uses where appropriate.
• Action H-2.1: Provide incentives to residential development in mixed-use structures
or complexes.
Transportation Element
The transportation system supports Kent's land use vision for Downtown. Downtown
exemplifies=a complete street system, where all users are considered in the planning,
construction, and maintenance of this interconnected network. The anticipated
multimodal urban form will generate fewer auto trips than the suburban form of low
density development. People living in Downtown will create a vibrant new neighborhood.
Overall Goal: To provide for a safe and efficient multimodal transportation system to and
within Downtown, in support of the existing land uses, associated activities, and
anticipated growth in households and employment.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 4
Policy T-1: Enhance pedestrian circulation systems and bicycle routes in the Urban Center.
Place emphasis also on pedestrian and bicycle circulation systems which link adjacent
neighborhoods to the Urban Center.
• Action T-1.1: Establish levels-of-service (LOS) for multimodal facilities (i.e.,
sidewalks, bicycle infrastructure, transit service) which facilitate medium to high-
density development and the associated residential and employment uses in
Downtown.
• Action T-1.2: Evaluate and ensure pedestrian and bicycle connectivity between
adjacent neighborhoods and Downtown.
• Action T-1.3: Secure and design safe and attractive pedestrian"connections
through-out Downtown and to adjacent residential neighborhoods, .
a) Repair, beautify, and maintain Gowe Street east of Central Avenue to
Temperance in an effort to enhance ccnnectivity of the adjoining neighborhoods
to Earthworks Park and the Downtown.
b) Program existing traffic signals at Willis/4th Avenue, James/2nd Avenue,
Central/James Street, and Central/Smith Street to"respond quickly to pedestrian
activation.
c) Ensure that all City departments implementing the streetscape standards
identified in the Downtown Design Guidelines pedestrian plan overlay coordinate
to meet the aesthetic"and functional expectations for public rights-of-way.
d) Plant and maintain street trees as identified in the Downtown Design Guidelines.
e) Plan for and fund a lifecycle replacement program for street trees.
f) Consider wherever Practical replacing paved medians with decorative pavers,
landscaping, or a pedestrian safe-haven.
• Action T-1.4: Implement design solutions to transform Central Avenue into an
attractive place that"provides a sense of pedestrian safety.
a) Examine traffic speeds along Central Avenue and consider options to ensure a
more.pedestrian-friendly environment.
b) Install"small physical urban design elements to the existing sidewalk along
Central Avenue (i.e., planters, decorative bollards, etc.) to provide a sense of
separation from vehicular traffic.
c) Create pedestrian refuges at intersections where there are opportunities to do
so.
d) Consider the installation of a pedestrian-only light at the intersection of Central
Avenue near the 236th block.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 5
• Action T-1.5: Improve pedestrian safety and aesthetics of the underpasses of SR-
167 along the east/west corridors of Willis, Meeker, and James Street in the Urban
Center.
a) Work with Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) on the
regular clean-up and maintenance for all underpasses (i.e., trash, graffiti,
lighting, bird management, weeding, etc.).
b) Work with WSDOT to make the existing west bound pedestrian facility at
Willis/SR-167 safer by restriping, adding lane markers.,(Le., turtles), and
pedestrian lighting.
c) Work with WSDOT to install woody drought-resistant ornamental landscapes
that provides seasonal color and interest on underpass embankments of Meeker
and James Streets.
d) Work with WSDOT to retrofit existing medians associated with Willis to beautify
with drought resistant plant materials or ornamental pavers, and if appropriate,
make them safe for pedestrian refuges.
e) Work with WSDOT to establish an 'Adopt-a-Street' program for the maintenance
of the SR-167 under-passes.
• Action T-1.6: Create prominent and distinctive pedestrian-friendly/auto-oriented
gateways into Downtown.
a) Study, develop schematic design, and prioritize potential gateway locations.
b) Develop preliminary engineering design options and construction estimates for
each recognized gateway location.
c) Appropriate funds for implementation of the priority gateways.
Policy T-2: Reduce the impacts of heavy gauge rail on the economic vitality and livability
of Downtown.
• Action.T-2.1: Continue to work towards grade separation of vehicles and trains.
• Action T-2.2: Work with the railroads to establish a 'Quiet Zone' in Downtown.
• Action T-2.3' Conduct a noise study to determine the value and feasibility of
soundproofing new construction along the rail tracks.
Parks Element
Well-designed and maintained public spaces in a busy urban environment offer many
opportunities for respite and recreation. Open areas with trees for shade, paths to stroll
along, and places to sit and gather with neighbors, friends, and co-workers make an
important contribution to the livability of Downtown. The parks and open space network,
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 6
whether formal or informal, public or semi-public, is essential to a lively, successful, and
healthy Downtown.
Overall Goal: To encourage public spaces that enhances the experience and livability of
Downtown and provides a stage for art and community events.
Policy P-1: Develop, maintain, and operate high-quality parks in Downtown.
• Action P-1.1: Improve parks and recreation facilities to achieve a safe, livable, and
economically successful Downtown.
a) Evaluate existing park assets to create attractive gathering,places for all users
and to further downtown livability.
b) Include public safety considerations in landscape design and maintenance
practices.
c) Strengthen the pedestrian and bike connections to surrounding recreational
facilities surrounding the Downtown (i.e., Green River Trail, Golf Course, Ice
Rink, Interurban Trail, Earthworks Park, etc.).
d) Enhance the year-round recreational value ofTown-Square Plaza.
Policy P-2: Look for opportunities to expand the presence of public spaces in the Urban
Center, as well as ways to partner with the private sector to increase engagement
between public spaces and their,surrounding private interests.
• Action P-2.1: Study repositioning existing park assets to increase recreational
opportunities`in the Urban Center.
Policy P-3: Support cultural events and public art projects in Downtown.
• Action P-3.1: Pursue public .art to enhance the Urban Center.
• Action P-3.2: Promote and support community events for cultural entertainment
throughout the year (i.e., music festivals, art shows, plays, etc.).
Environmental Sustainalbility Element
Land use and transportation choices play a critical role in how growth impacts the
environmental and social systems. There is a connection between human and ecosystem
health, and equity within and between generations, when considering environmental
sustainability. Success in attaining environmental sustainability will be achieved by
transforming the Urban Center into a compact vibrant community supported by broad
transportation options, built with energy efficient and sustainable building materials, and
designed around resource conservation options.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 7
Overall Goal: To integrate the natural and developed environments into a sustainable
urban center with clean air and water, and a comfortable and secure place for people to
live and work.
Policy ES-1: Reduce automobile dependency and greenhouse gas emissions by
implementing growth management strategies that fully integrate land use and
transportation within the Urban Center.
• Action ES-1.1: Investigate car-share and bike-share opportunities in the Urban
Center to encourage car-free living.
Policy ES-2: Utilize best management practices and available technology to demonstrate
effective environmental stewardship and long-term fiscal responsibility in city projects.
Policy ES-3: Encourage the wise use of renewable natural resources and support
technology that reduces atmospheric pollutants that contribute to global atmospheric
changes..
• Action ES-3.1: Establish minimum standards for electric vehicle chargers in
residential development.
Policy ES-4: Utilize low impact development techniques in new development and
redevelopment to improve water quality and reduce runoff from streets, parking lots and
other impervious surfaces in an effort to maintain or restore the natural hydrology of the
Green/Duwamish watershed.
• Action ES-4.1�, .Establish low ,impact development standards for development in
Downtown.
Public Safety Element
A key to making ,a place livable is to ensure the safety of people and property. As
Downtown densities and uses increase over time, it is important to maintain adequate
response times for public safety functions. Public safety services may be delivered in a
number of ways and will be further explored as the need arises.
Overall Goal: To provide the expected public safety services to the residents of a changing
and growing Downtown.
Policy PS-1: Provide: adequate fire and life safety services in the Downtown commensurate
with increases in population and employment.
Policy PS-2: Enhance the feeling of personal safety along public rights-of-way, parks, and
civic facilities in Downtown.
• Action PS-2.1: Identify key pedestrian routes in Downtown and ensure they are
well-lighted.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 8
• Action PS-2.2: Add pedestrian lighting to the mid-block passageway off Vt Avenue
between Titus and Meeker Street.
• Action PS-2.3: Amend public civility laws to allow for more effective enforcement.
• Action PS-2.4: Work with Sound Transit to increase security at the Sounder Rail
Station and Sounder Parking Garage.
• Action PS-2.5: Provide appropriate lighting in Downtown parks.'
Utilities Element
Downtown growth will increase demand for utilities necessary to conduct business and
maintain a household. The city and private providers will need to work together to ensure
that adequate services are available for anticipated growth.
Overall Goal: To furnish the necessary infrastructure, in partnership with the semi-public
suppliers, that attracts and supports the desired residential and employment growth
within Downtown.
Policy U-1: Eliminate where possible the aesthetic and physical impacts to pedestrians
caused by above ground utility equipment within the sidewalk.
Policy U-2: Establish 21't Century delivery systems for utilities within Downtown.
• Action U-2.1: Designate and underground utilities within Downtown.
• Action U-2.2: Develop e high speed finer-optic internet system through
public/private partnerships.
Policy U-3: Take actions.to ensure that adequate public parking is available to support
existing uses and facilitate future development in the Urban Center. This includes efficient
management of on-street spaces and future development and enhancement of structured,
off-street parking.
'Action U-3.1: Conduct a parking study to determine parking needs for all users,
including public handicap-accessible parking, and implement recommendations of
the study.
• Action U-3.2: Consider the location of additional parking structures be located
adjacent to the railroad for the purpose of noise abatement.
Economic Development Element
Downtown is a key asset to the business community, residents, and Kent's work force.
The City has achieved multiple redevelopment goals for Downtown. Kent Station and
ShoWare have become a destination experience and the foundation for Downtown's
future. Continuing to support the successes of the business community and positioning
Downtown as a complete community with a strong residential component will link the
historic Downtown with Kent Station.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 9
Overall Goal: Promote the economic health and the planned growth of Downtown through
private/public partnerships, pursuit of incentives, and aggressive promotion.
Policy E-1: Promote and encourage retail uses which serve the residential population in,
and adjacent to, the Urban Center.
Policy E-2: Actively support economic development opportunities through promotion,
partnerships, and strategic planning efforts.
Action E-2.1: Continue to work with the Kent Downtown Partnership in support of
its efforts to revitalize Downtown. Work cooperatively to:-
a) Recruit additional anchor stores and key retailers into the"Urban Center.
b) Recruit a diversity of businesses to create a synergy among 'uses that will
increase business activity for all.
c) Encourage businesses to increase store hours into the evening.
d) Identify and promote an entertainment district within the Urban Center that
encourages evening activity.
Action E-2.2: Adopt and implement,a Planned Action-Ordinance and Infill
Development Ordinance to facilitate redevelopment in Downtown.
Action E-2.3: Propose development incentives for economic revitalization within an
identified portion of Downtown to stimulate property investment and create new
space for businesses and other uses.
• Action E-2.4: Work with Sound Transit to develop retail along 2nd Avenue in front of
the Sounder Parking Garage,i
PolicyE-3: Provide voluntary,incentives for the replication or protection of historic facades
or other significant design features when redevelopment occurs.
Policy E-4:' Encourage a balance of housing and employment opportunities within the
Urban Center using a variety of tools..
• Action E-4.1: Expand existing residential development incentives to include all of
Downtown.
• Action E-4:2: Promote and encourage retail uses which serve the residential
population in;_and adjacent to, the Urban Center.
• Action E-4.3: Create site specific incentive packages for targeted commercial,
residential and mixed-use development which can include infrastructure
investments, marketing support, training, and real estate site advertising, among
other possibilities.
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 10
Policy E-5: Work with business owners, property owners, and the brokerage community to
better understand business operational needs to inform development initiatives and
leasing strategies.
• Action E-5.1: Create interim strategies for vacant lots (i.e., clean-up, beautification,
and interim activity-generating uses).
• Action E-5.2: Encourage businesses and landowners to improve the maintenance
and aesthetics of properties in historic Downtown.
S:\Permit\Plan\COMP PLAN AMENDMENTS\2012\CPR-2012-1 Downtown\Subareaplen\Actions\4hdteftac6ons Goals.Doc
Draft- Preliminary Policy and Actions for the Kent Downtown Subarea Action Plan Page 11
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DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
LAND USE ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r Yr Yr Yr Timing Issues
1 Action LU-2.1: Expand the diversity and density of uses In
Downtown to support a vibrant urban environment and
ensure regulatory consistency.
a. Amend the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Plan Map and
Zoning Districts Map to encourage a diversity of urban
uses and building forms.
b. Amend the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Plan Map or
Zoning Districts Map to achieve consistency between
designations that support the vision for Downtown.
C. Amend the development regulations to increase building
height for General Commercial Mixed-Use (GC-MU)
within Downtown to ensure a more dense mix of office,
retail, and housing options.
2 Action LU-2.2: Ensure development regulations support a
livable, economically vibrant, and well designed Downtown.
a. Revise the Mixed-Use Overlay Development Standards
to ensure that the form of infill development is in
keeping with the community's vision, including
minimizing the environmental impacts on adjacent
residential uses.
b. Revise the multifamily development regulations to
provide viable, urban-style housing options within
Downtown.
C. Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines and
development regulations where appropriate to reduce
the visual impact of surface parking along pedestrian
designated streets.
d. Revise the sign regulations to reinforce a pedestrian
oriented urban streetscape in Downtown (e.g., blade
signs, sandwich board signs
URBAN DESIGN ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
3 Action UD-1.1: Apply Downtown Design Guidelines and
updated development standards to the entire Downtown
where appropriate.
4 Action UD-1.2: Utilize a revised hierarchy of streets to guide
right-of-way use in a manner that will promote a safe,
attractive environment for both motorized and non-
motorized users.
5 Action UD-1.3: Review and revise where necessary the
programmatic documents and design manuals to ensure
pedestrian and bike accessibility within and adjacent to
Downtown is created, enhanced, or preserved.
6 Action UD-1.4: Strengthen the pedestrian connection
between Kent Station and historic Downtown Kent through
good design, public investments, and private efforts.
a. Install year-round street tree lighting between Kent
Station and Historic Downtown.
b. Add seasonal planters and hanging baskets along 2nd
Avenue.
5/21/2013 S:\Permt\Plan\COMP_PLAN_AMMDMMTS\2012\CPA-20121 Downtown\SubaeaPlai\Actions\2013DSAP_AQionPlan2.xls Page 1
DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
C. Consider a covered pedestrian walkway along 2nd
Avenue to provide a visual draw and weather protection
in an effort to attract pedestrians day or night.
d. Work with Kent Downtown Partnership to ensure
businesses and property owners promote pedestrian
oriented activities and visual interest along 2nd Avenue
(i.e., generous entries, interesting and changing display
windows, building decoration, and lighting).
7 Action UD-1.5: Establish and promote a coordinated design
standard for streetscape elements and lighting (i.e.,
benches, bike racks, trash containers, planters).
a. a) Establish a working group to review existing
streetscape design standards, revise if necessary.
b. b) Identify where to apply the streetscape design
standards and implement through a lasting mechanism.
8 Action UD-1.6: Ensure that public streetscapes and private
properties in Downtown are well maintained.
a. Establish and commit to a maintenance standard and
schedule for the public streetscape.
b. Establish an initiative with the private sector to
encourage a minimum maintenance of properties.
C. Work with Kent Downtown Partnership to encourage
property owners associated with the organization to
renovate and restore their buildings.
9 Action UD-2.1: Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines and
development regulations to promote ground floor building
facade treatments and uses that will generate pedestrian
interest and comfort(i.e., large windows, canopies, arcades,
plazas and outdoor seating).
10 Action UD-2.2: Encourage the use of durable, high quality
building materials to lower maintenance and replacement
needs and ensure the aesthetic appeal of new development.
11 Action UD-2.3: Revise the Downtown Design Guidelines and
development regulations to identify locations for continuous
building facades, building setbacks, and historic
preservation.
a. Retain as many historic features as possible in the
restoration or renovation of historical quality buildings.
Wherever possible, maintain or restore original
proportions, dimensions, and elements.
b. Incorporate design options to ensure the historic
architectural character of the urban pedestrian
streetscape is maintained while balancing preservation
with renovation and redevelopment.
C. Consider and incorporate design options to mitigate for
the environmental effects of building height and bulk In
areas where commercial mixed-use development abuts
residential neighborhoods.
12 Action UD-2.4: Establish design guidelines and development
regulations to prohibit the development of new drive-
through businesses in the core of Downtown.
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DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
HOUSING ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r Yr Yr Yr Timing Issues
13 Action H-2.1: Provide incentives to residential development
in mixed-use structures or complexes.
TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
14 Action T-1.1: Establish levels-of-service (LOS) for
multimodal facilities (i.e., sidewalks, bike lanes, transit
service) which facilitate medium to high-density
development and the associated residential and employment
uses in Downtown.
15 Action T-1.2: Evaluate and ensure pedestrian and bicycle
connectivity between adjacent neighborhoods and
Downtown.
16 Action T-2.1: Secure and design safe and attractive
pedestrian connections through-out Downtown and to
adjacent residential neighborhoods.
a. Repair, beautify, and maintain Titus Street east of
Central Avenue to Temperance in an effort to enhance
connectivity of the adjoining neighborhoods to
Earthworks Park and the Downtown.
b. Program existing traffic lights at Willis/4th Avenue,
James/2nd Avenue, Central/James Street, and
Central/Smith Street to respond quickly to pedestrian
activation.
C. Examine traffic speeds along Central Avenue and
consider options to ensure a more pedestrian-friendly
environment.
d. Ensure that all City departments implementing the
streetscape standards identified in the Downtown
Design Guidelines pedestrian plan overlay coordinate to
meet the aesthetic and functional expectations.
e. Plant and maintain street trees as identified in the
Downtown Design Guidelines.
f. Consider the re-use of paved medians, replacing with
decorative pavers, landscaping, or for use as a
pedestrian safe-haven.
17 Action T-2.2: Implement design solutions to transform
Central Avenue into an attractive place that provides a sense
of pedestrian safety.
a. Install small physical urban design elements to the
existing sidewalk along Central Avenue (i.e., planters,
decorative bollards, etc.) to provide a sense of
separation from vehicular traffic.
b. Create pedestrian refuges at intersections where there
are opportunities.
C. Consider the installation of pedestrian-only light on
Central Avenue and 236th.
18 Action T-2.3: Improve pedestrian safety and aesthetics of
the under-passes of SR-167 along the east/west corridors of
Willis, Meeker, and James Street in the Urban Center.
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DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
a. Work with Washington State Department of
Transportation (WSDOT) on the regular clean-up and
maintenance for all under-passes (i.e., trash, graffiti,
lighting, bird management, etc.).
b. Work with WSDOT to make the existing west bound
pedestrian path at Willis/SR-167 safer by restriping,
adding lane markers (i.e., turtles), and pedestrian
lighting.
C. Work with WSDOT to remove weeds at the east and
west bound embankments of the Meeker and James
Street under-passes of SR-167 and install woody
drought resistant ornamental landscapes that provides
seasonal color and interest.
d. Work with WSDOT to retrofit existing medians
associated with Willis, Meeker, and James Street to
beautify with drought resistant plant materials or
ornamental pavers, and if appropriate, make them safe
for pedestrian refuges.
19 Action T-2.4: Create prominent and distinctive pedestrian-
friendly/auto-oriented gateways into Downtown.
a. Study potential gateway locations, conceptually design,
and prioritize each gateway location.
b. Appropriate funds for implementation of the priority
gateways.
C. Develop schematic design options and construction
estimates for each recognized gateway location.
20 Action T-2.5: Reduce the impacts of heavy gauge rail to the
economic vitality and livability within the Downtown.
a. Work with the railroads to establish a 'Quiet Zone' In
the Downtown.
b. Conduct a noise study to determine the value of sound-
proofing new construction along the rail tracks and
implement.
PARKS ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
21 Action P-1.1: Improve parks and recreation facilities to
achieve a safe, livable, and economically successful
Downtown.
a. Evaluate existing park assets to create attractive
gathering places for all users and to further downtown
livability.
b. Remove sight-obscuring plant materials in existing
parks to make a more useable and safe green open
space.
C. Strengthen the pedestrian and bike connections to
surrounding recreational facilities surrounding the
Downtown (i.e., Green River Trail, Golf Course, Ice
Rink, Inter-Urban Trail, Earthworks Park, etc.).
d. Add more seating, trees and diversity of activities
within Town Square Plaza.
e. Improve accessibility of Canyon Park to Downtown.
22 Action P-2.1: Study repositioning existing park assets to
contribute to a new expanded park system in the Urban
Center.
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DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
23 Action P-3.1: Pursue public art to enhance the Urban
Center, particularly along 2nd Avenue and Historic
Downtown Kent.
24 Action P-3.2: Promote and support community events for
cultural entertainment throughout the year (i.e., music
festivals, art shows, plays, etc.).
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
25 Action ES-3.1: Establish minimums for electric vehicle
chargers in residential development to support technology
that reduces atmospheric pollutants that contribute to global
atmospheric changes.
26 Action ES-4.1: Establish low impact development standards
for Downtown development to maintain or restore the
natural hydrology of the Green/Duwamish watershed.
PUBLIC SAFETY ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
27 Action PS-2.1: Identify key pedestrian routes in downtown
and ensure they are well-lighted.
28 Action PS-2.2: Add pedestrian lighting to the mid-block
passageway off 1st Avenue between Titus and Meeker
Street.
29 Action PS-2.3: Amend public civility laws to allow for more
effective enforcement.
30 Action PS-2.4: Work with Sound Transit to add greater
security to the Sounder Rail Station and Sounder Parking
Garage.
31 Action PS-2.5Provide for appropriate lighting in Downtown
parks.
UTILITIES ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
32 Action U-2.1: Designate and underground overhead utilities
within Downtown.
33 Action U-2.2: Develop a high speed fiber-optic internet
system through public/private partnerships.
34 Action U-3.1: Conduct a parking study to determine parking
needs for all users, including public handicapped parking,
and implement recommendations.
ECONOMIC ELEMENT: 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r yr yr yr Timing Issues
35 Action E-2.1: Continue to work with the Kent Downtown
Partnership in support of its efforts to revitalize Downtown.
Work cooperatively to:
a. Recruit additional anchor stores and key retailers into
the Urban Center.
b. Recruit a diversity of businesses to create a synergy
between uses that will increase business activity for all.
C. Encourage businesses to increase store hours into the
evening.
d. Identify and promote an entertainment district within
the Urban Center that encourages evening activity.
36 Action E-2.2: Adopt and implement a Planned Action
Ordinance and Infill Development Ordinance to facilitate
redevelopment in Downtown.
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DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
37 Action E-2.3: Work with Sound Transit to develop retail
along 2nd Avenue in front of the Sounder Parking Garage.
38 Action E-4.1: Expand existing residential development
incentives to include all of Downtown.
39 Action E-4.2: Promote and encourage retail uses which serve
the residential population in, and adjacent to, the Urban
Center.
40 Action E-4.3: Create site specific incentive packages for
targeted commercial, residential and mixed-use
development which can include infrastructure investments,
marketing support, training, and real estate site advertising,
among other possibilities.
41 Action E-5.1: Create interim strategies for vacant lots (i.e.,
clean-up, beautification, and interim activity-generating
uses).
42 Action E-5.2: Encourage businesses and landowners to
improve maintenance and aesthetics of properties in historic
Downtown.
Please review the ACTIONS below and provide status report (i.e., keep, remove, done). If we
keep an ACTION Please indicate when it mav be com 3leted. Thank vou.
2005 DSAP Actions not yet Completed
A. LAND USE 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
r Yr Yr Yr Timing Issues
A3. Promote infill housing At least 200 market rate dwelling
units by 2008.
b. Reduce or waive permit fees for Downtown residential
development
KEEP
A4. Encourage mixed-use development
s needed.
a. Lincoln Park&Ride lot King County selling 8 acres of DCE
zoned 9.5 acre lot,' see
REMOVE THIS Recommendation Dl.d.
C. Ten (10) acres between SR-167, the UP RR,Willis & Lot zoned DCE is for sale, see
Meeker Streets Recommendations 85 and Dl.d.
REMOVE THIS
A5. Study impacts of pawn shops, bail bond offices, day labor REMOVE THIS
B.TRANSPORTATION 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
yr yr yr yr Timing Issues
B2. Construct street improvements
a. Fourth Avenue
b. Smith Street Linked to rail station connections
& Kent Station development.
c. Fourth Ave. to Railroad Ave. Scheduled for completion in 2005.
d. Central Avenue High priority.
e. Saar Street Triggered by private development.
f. Imeeker Street High priority.
g. Sixth Avenue Property owner initiated.
B3. Plan for overpass at Willis Street-at UP and BNSF tracks Determined by Regional Fast
Corridor project.
B5. Consider accessibility options from Willis and Meeker Streets
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DRAFT ATTACHMENT B
2013 DSAP: Strategic ACTIONS for Completeness
RECOMMENDATION Strategic Time Frame
from 2013
C. PUBLIC FACILITIES 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
yr yr yr yr Timing Issues
C1. Upgrade downtown parks Long-term implementation -
coinciding with private
develo ment
b. jEnhance parks along railroad Could be incremental effort.
c. Masterplan Commons Playfield High Priority - coordinate parking.
C2. Enhance Gateways
a. Fourth and James
b. Fourth and Smith Ongoing effort with KDP.
C. Fourth and Meeker Supports rail station
d. Fourth and Willis
e. Central and Meeker
f. Central and Smith
g. Second and Smith Connects Kent Station and Historic
Core
C3. Add public buildings
a. jPerforming Arts Center
C4. Provide trails and Paths
a. Links from Interurban Trail
b. Path along James Street
C. Imill Creek/Kennebeck
C6. Improve pedestrian bridge over Mill Creek at Temperance
St.
C7. Plan for eventual undergrounding of all utilities in the Long-term implementation-
Historic Core District coinciding with private
development
D. DESIGN GUIDELINES 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
yr yr yr yr Timing Issues
D1. Refine design guidelines
Id. jEast Frame and West Frame District parking standards KEEP
e. lNorth Frame District incorporated into Downtown KEEP
E. TARGET AREAS 0-2 2-5 5-10 10-20
yr yr yr yr Timing Issues
El. Explore redevelopment opportunities
C. Fourth Avenue REMOVE THIS
d. Central core historic streets
REMOVE THIS Ongoing effort with KDP
e. South Core District Revise residential development
incentives, and encourage mixed-
REMOVE THIS use.
F. COMMUNITY BUILDING 0-2 1 2-5 1 5-10 10-20
yr yr yr yr Timing Issues
F2. Encourage adaptive reuse of historic Kent Depot Assist KDP and Greater Kent
REMOVE THIS Historical Society efforts.
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