Livable Streets Summary
Livable Streets Overview - Focus on livable communities integrating transportation, housing, and commercial development for universal accessibility, fostering connectivity and sustainability.
Livability Principles
More transportation choices (walking, biking, public transit).
Equitable, affordable housing near jobs/services.
Economic competitiveness by supporting local economies.
Support existing communities (conserve resources, revitalize urban centers).
Coordinated federal policies for livability goals.
Value unique neighborhood character.
Design Vision for Livable Streets
Prioritize pedestrian safety.
Create social spaces for community interaction.
Enhance aesthetic appeal and integrate mixed-use areas.
Increase demand for revitalized neighborhoods.
Key Design Concepts
Context-Sensitive Solutions (CSS): Interdisciplinary approach to fit transportation facilities within physical context and preserve resources, while maintaining safety and mobility.
Traffic Calming: Physical features (e.g., speed humps, narrower lanes) to reduce vehicle speed/volume and enhance safety for non-motorized users.
Complete Streets: Design streets for safe, comfortable, convenient use by all modes and users (pedestrians, cyclists, transit, motorists, all ages/abilities).
Sustainable Street Networks
Align with natural environments, prioritize sustainable transport (walking, biking, transit), integrating green infrastructure.
Integrate city's ecological systems: positive contribution to local ecosystems, stormwater management, biodiversity.
Types of Street Networks
T1 Natural Zone: Conservation of natural habitats.
T2 Rural Zone: Low-density rural, agricultural lands.
T3 Sub-Urban Zone: Residential, moderate density, some commercial.
T4 General Urban Zone: Urban residential/commercial, higher density, mixed-use.
T5 Urban Center Zone: High-density mixed-use (downtown/main street).
T6 Urban Core Zone: Highest density urban core (civic, commercial, residential).
SD Special District: Unique functions (e.g., industrial, educational).
Conventional vs. Livable Street Design
Livable streets prioritize pedestrians/cyclists, minimize vehicle speed/volume, integrate natural elements, fostering social interaction and economic vitality.
Key design comparisons:
Layout: interconnected grid (livable) vs. dendritic/cul-de-sacs (conventional).
Street Width: narrower (livable) for reduced crossing distances/vehicle speeds.
Lighting: more, closer spaced (livable) for safety/aesthetics.
Setbacks: minimal (livable) for storefront activity/pedestrian engagement.
Traveled Way Design Principles
Accommodate all users and enhance safety.
Design based on contextual speed and movement predictions.
Address elements like on-street parking, bike lanes, and travel lanes to optimize space and improve safety.
Intersection Design Principles
Compact design to minimize conflicts.
Favor right-angle intersections for safety.
Include effective traffic control for all users.
Universal Pedestrian Access
Safe, continuous pathways for all abilities.
Required facilities: wide sidewalks, effective crossings, curb ramps, tactile paving, adequate lighting.
Bikeway Design Considerations
Ensure safe, convenient bike lanes with clear separation from pedestrians.
Address various levels and types of cyclists, including separated, shared use, buffered, and shared lanes.
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
Compact, walkable communities focused around public transit for dense, mixed-use areas.
Aims to reduce car dependence and enhance quality of life.
Essential features: mixed-use, high-density near transit, pedestrian-friendly design, green spaces.
Benefits of TOD
Reduced driving dependence ().
Enhanced living, working, and recreation opportunities ().
Lower environmental impact () and local economy stimulation ().
Closing Quote
“The convenience of the car and the opportunity to walk or use transit can be blended in an environment of local access for all the daily needs of a diverse community.” - Peter Calthorpe